HD CCTV

As the application scenarios are becoming more and more demanding, traditional security systems are having problems catching up and often face issues such as: too much false alarms triggered by pets, insects, leaves and other non-target objects; can only rely on video playback for confirmation after an event; and difficult evidence retrieval due to uncolored images at night with Black/White monitoring. What’s worse, for a relatively comprehensive system, the user will need to spend more money on additional accessories like external mic, speaker, detector, and alarm light, not to mention the extra time and costs on installation. To address the above-mentioned issues once and for all, Dahua Technology launches its innovative and powerful Three-in-One Camera solution, also known as the TiOC. Powerful AI algorithms This automated and comprehensive security solution effectively solves the aforementioned problems with the following key features: Accurate Alarm: False alarm is always considered a headache for users. With AI-powered perimeter protection and SMD Plus, the Dahua TiOC offers accurate alarm function by precisely targeting people and vehicles, while filtering out non-target objects such as animals, leaves and car headlights. While keeping false alarm rate under 2%, its powerful AI algorithms also delivers a quicker, more accurate and longer range motion detection (detection distance is increased by more than 185%), considerably improving the efficiency of the whole TiOC solution. Real-time alarm functions Active Deterrence and Real-time Alarm: Instead of only relying on the recorded videos as evidence after an event, the TiOC makes it possible to respond during the event with its Active Deterrence and Real-time Alarm functions that can significantly prevent such event from happening. Active deterrence is more effective with red and blue light, which is more eye-catching than white light, and is also visible even in dense fog and heavy rain. An enhanced speaker delivers up to 110 dB, featuring a wailing siren or a recorded voice. APP Alarm Push provides alarm notifications in real-time, allowing users to respond in time such as sending a voice alarm using the two-way talk function. In addition, the system also allows pre-recorded announcements or customized recordings, which enables users to realize content customization and language localization. The cellphone APP also supports one-tap arming/disarming function that brings great convenience to users. Full-color technology Full-color: Enough reliable information is key during evidence retrieval. With industry-renowned full-color technology, the Dahua TiOC delivers color images day and night, considerably enhancing the ability to identify suspects, while increasing the quality of video evidence. Three-in-One: TiOC integrates 24/7 full-color monitoring, active deterrence and AI into one smart, innovative solution, greatly saving time and financial costs for distributors and installers. Enhance public security TiOC works like a responsible guardian to enhance public security TiOC is suitable for private places that need to maintain orderliness and warn off intruders, such as villas, shops, warehouses, etc. TiOC can accurately identify real targets with accurate alarm, effectively warn them off with active deterrence, and notify the user with real-time alarm. The full-color image that the camera records provides more useful human/vehicle evidence for future checking and analysis, offering an enhanced protection to residents, shop owners and warehouse managers. TiOC is also ideal for outdoor scenarios such as fire lanes, which need to be always free of obstructions, in most cases vehicles. Give it a try, and you’ll see that the TiOC can effectively maintain emergency lanes clear, working like a responsible guardian that fulfills its duty to enhance public security. Upcoming PTZ cameras The powerful Dahua TiOC Solution offers 24/7 full-color monitoring, active deterrence and AI with WizSense IP cameras, HDCVI 6.0 cameras and XVRs, and upcoming PTZ cameras, making it ideally applicable to villas, shops, warehouses, fire lanes, and places alike. With its mission of “Enabling a safer society and smarter living”, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on “Innovation, Quality and Service” to serve its partners and customers around the world.

Bold report their new Gemini CCTV monitoring platform release includes new integrations and features to enhance the monitoring control room user experience and in response to the latest technology. These include the addition of three new CCTV system interfaces and a number of feature enhancements. March Networks, which operates in government, retail, education and banking sectors, amongst others, joins Mirasys VMS and Hanwha Techwin, formerly Samsung, along with many existing CCTV integrations.    Gemini can be deployed in the cloud or on local servers as required. New features in the latest release include - direct camera import to save having to add cameras manually and rekeying descriptions, camera views and alarm zones integration, Hikvision DeepinMind object identifier, site polling, batch contacts editing, SMS dynamic messaging and broadcasts, and intelligent alarm signaling processing to dramatically reduce duplicate and false alarms.

Dallmeier Electronic, one of the world's renowned manufacturers of video information systems, presents its new module camera "MDF5250HD-DN". The latest model in the Dallmeier 5000 camera series has excellent low-light characteristics. This guarantees high detail resolution and color accuracy even in poor light conditions. The capability to perform AI-based object classification is provided even at the encoder level. At the same time, the camera enables reduced data rates due to H.265 video compression. Compared with conventional models, the MDF5250HD-DN offers considerable advantages in terms of discretion, space requirement and flexibility as the encoder housing and the sensor are separate from each other. The ultracompact sensor housing means that users can install the latest module camera from Dallmeier even in the tightest of spaces. Possible fields of application thus include cash dispensers, retail or gas stations, for example. Highest detail resolutions The MDF5250HD-DN delivers frame rates of up to 100 fps with a resolution of 1080p (Full HD) The camera has both a day and a night mode. If HDR mode is activated, the sensor functions within a dynamic range up to 120 dB. In combination with the high light sensitivity of 0.002 lux and the innovative image processing, this enables clear recordings with unmatched contrast and the highest detail resolutions and color accuracy even in difficult light conditions. Low data rate together with high resolution? H.265 video compression makes it possible. The MDF5250HD-DN delivers frame rates of up to 100 fps with a resolution of 1080p (Full HD). This typically demand correspondingly high bandwidths and large storage space capacities. Thanks to H.265 video compression, the data rate is reduced by as much as 50% compared to H.264 – with no loss of resolution or image quality. Its use in combination with Dallmeier recording systems also enables users to reduce network and storage loads further. Video content analysis  Besides the low data rate, the innovative encoder technology also enables significantly more powerful object classification. After just a short learning phase, the neural networks integrated at the camera level already allow more effective use of video analysis functions. This makes the evaluation of results from analysis functions such as "Tamper Detection", "Line Crossing" or "Intrusion Detection" still more efficient.

ISS - Intelligent Security Systems, a supplier of intelligent Video Management System (VMS) and analytics for myriad security and business intelligence applications, has added SecurOS™ Hand Sanitizer to the company’s robust offering of COVID-19 Return to Work solutions. The new analytics, built on Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and imaging technology from Intel®, is designed to detect if an individual has not properly cleansed their hands in a designated area where hand washing and/or hand sanitization is mandated. Initially developed for use in the food service industry, the demand for hand sanitizer analytics is trending rapidly to meet emerging compliance requirements in a post-COVID-19 world. “One of the most basic ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 involves hand washing and sanitization. Like many drugs that were developed for other ailments that are now being used to combat COVID-19, our SecurOS Hand Sanitizer analytics was initially in development for another purpose, but seems most appropriate now as an intelligent and autonomous solution to help prevent the spread of this deadly virus,” said Aluisio Figueiredo, CEO of Intelligent Security Systems. Market demand for hand sanitizer Market demand for SecurOS Hand Sanitiser has already been generated from numerous hospitals, medical offices, industrial facilities, commercial and residential buildings, and public and government facilities across the country to help establish safe “return to work” procedures. The ISS SecurOS Hand Sanitizer solution integrates Intel Realsense cameras with ISS’ SecurOS analytics platform to identify and analyze postures and movements of the skeletal body form. The combination of image depth metadata from Realsense and the ISS NN analytics, tracks the movement of hands in the act of washing/sanitizing. The metadata is further processed by the SecurOS™ platform which defines actions as combinations of elementary movements. Risk mitigation precautions For example, the elementary movement “person bends her arm more than 90 degrees” may be part of the complex action “person answers a phone call” - which itself includes several alternative descriptions each consisting of multiple movements. In the same manner, the SecurOS platform can define set of actions indicating that a person is washing their hands at a basin/sink or standing in front of a free-standing sanitizing liquid dispenser and rubbing their hands together in an appropriate manner and for the requisite amount of time. The ISS SecurOS platform vocabulary is built using natural language and is similar in this aspect to IBM’s Watson. The SecurOS™ Hand Sanitiser solution, combined with other risk mitigation precautions and mandates, can lessen the impact of the current pandemic and help avoid the potential of a second wave of COVID-19 infection and help safely re-open schools, businesses and facilities.

KBC Networks, the manufacturer of industrial transmission equipment for IP and high-definition systems, introduced its eCopper product line. It features Ethernet over Coax (EoC) and Ethernet over UTP (EoU) transmission in a multi-port design. It is suitable for using existing copper-cable infrastructure to accommodate IP cameras. These products offer a way to connect the latest in IP cameras using existing coax or copper wiring to a remote monitoring station. Through the copper infrastructure, eCopper powers both its transmitter and remote cameras, eliminating the need for any other power source at the camera site. Central monitoring location The product also provides Power over Coax (PoC) management, giving system operators the ability to remotely turn each port’s power on and off from the central monitoring location. This PoC feature is described as a plug-and-play solution with a GUI for set-up and system maintenance. Domenic Isola, director of strategic accounts for KBC Networks said: “Our eCopper products offer integrators an excellent alternative to rewiring an entire location when they upgrade to IP cameras. It makes retrofitting affordable and adds power and functionality while using existing infrastructure.” The products offer a single-channel transmitter and single, four, eight and 16-channel receivers, available for both EoC and EoU transmission. The single-channel transmitter and receiver can be wall-mounted while the four-channel offers a wall or DIN rail mount and the eight and 16-channel receivers come as a 1U-high rack mount.

Suprema, a globally renowned provider of access control, time & attendance, and biometric solutions, has announced the launch of Suprema Thermal Camera that can be used in combination with FaceStation 2, the company’s face recognition device, to detect users with elevated skin temperature. Suprema Thermal Camera Suprema Thermal Camera is expected to enhance security and safety at sites by combining face recognition and skin temperature measurement. Suprema has increased the accuracy and consistency of temperature measurement by using the face recognition algorithm of the FaceStation 2 to pinpoint the upper area of a person’s face. FaceStation 2 Suprema Thermal Camera and FaceStation 2 can be configured differently for varying needs FaceStation 2 displays the skin temperature and thermal image of a subject’s face on its intuitive GUI, giving audio and visual alerts when higher than threshold temperature is detected. Suprema Thermal Camera and FaceStation 2 can be configured differently for varying needs. It can be set to deny entrance of users with elevated skin temperature while the ‘bypass mode’ will disable the face recognition feature and only admit users based on skin temperature. Integrated with thermographic technology System can also be arranged to trigger alarm and notifications to an administrator when the measured temperature is higher than preset threshold. Using advanced thermographic technology, Suprema Thermal Camera quickly and precisely measures temperature with 19,200 pixels per frame. With an accuracy of 0.5 degrees Celsius, Suprema Thermal Camera does not require blackbody reference for temperature measurement, improving ease of use. Easy deployment on new, retrofit installs Temperature data, which can be displayed in both Celsius and Fahrenheit, can also be saved as event logs. Suprema’s Thermal Camera can be conveniently connected to FaceStation 2 via USB cable, enabling easy deployment on new and retrofit installs. “The new Suprema Thermal Camera demonstrates our market focus. There has been a growing demand for temperature measurement devices to be used at access points and Suprema’s Thermal Camera was designed to meet this need. Our cameras can be conveniently installed on FaceStation 2, enhancing safety as well as security,” said Young S. Moon, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Suprema Inc.

Rodrigue Zbinden, CEO at Morphean, discusses the business benefits from merging video surveillance and access control technologies as demand for ACaaS grows. The big question facing businesses today is how they will use the data that they possess to unlock new forms of value using emerging technologies such as the cloud, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence. Some data is better utilized than others: financial services were quick to recognize the competitive advantages in exploiting technology to improve customer service, detect fraud and improve risk assessment. In the world of physical security, however, we’re only just beginning to understand the potential of the data that our systems gather as a part of their core function. Benefits of ‘Integrated access control’ The first thing to look for is how multiple sources of data can be used to improve physical security functionsWhat many businesses have yet to realize is that many emerging technologies come into their own when used across multiple sources of data. In physical security, for example, we’re moving from discussions about access control and CCTV as siloed functions, to platforms that combine information for analysis from any source, and applying machine learning algorithms to deliver intelligent insights back to the business. ‘Integrated access control’ then looks not just to images or building management, but to images, building management, HR databases and calendar information, all at the same time. And some of the benefits are only now starting to become clear. The first thing to look for, of course, is how multiple sources of data can be used to improve physical security functions. For example, by combining traditional access control data, such as when a swipe card is used, with a video processing platform capable of facial recognition, a second factor of authentication is provided without the need to install separate biometric sensors. CCTV cameras are already deployed in most sensitive areas, so if a card doesn’t match the user based on HR records, staff can be quickly alerted. Making the tools cost-Effective In a similar vein, if an access card is used by an employee, who is supposed to be on holiday according to the HR record, then video data can be used to ensure the individual’s identity and that the card has not been stolen – all before a human operator becomes involved. This is driving growth in ‘access control as a service’ (ACaaS), and the end-to-end digitalization of a vital business functionThese capabilities are not new. What is, however, is the way in which cloud-based computing platforms for security analytics, which absorb information from IP-connected cameras, make the tools much more cost effective, accessible and easier to manage than traditional on-site server applications. In turn, this is driving growth in ‘access control as a service’ (ACaaS), and the end-to-end digitalization of a vital business function. With this system set up, only access control hardware systems are deployed on premise while the software and access control data are shifted to a remote location and provided as a service to users on a recurring monthly subscription. The benefits of such an arrangement are numerous but include avoiding large capital investments, greater flexibility to scale up and down, and shifting the onus of cybersecurity and firmware updates to the vendor. Simple installation and removal of endpoints What’s more, because modern video and access control systems transmit data via the IP network, installation and removal of endpoints are simple, requiring nothing more than PoE and Wi-Fi. Of all the advantages of the ‘as a service’ model, it’s the rich data acquired from ACaaS that makes it so valuable, and capable of delivering business benefits beyond physical security. Managers are constantly looking for better quality of information to inform decision making, and integrated access control systems know more about operations than you might think. Integrating lighting systems with video feeds and access control creates the ability to control the lightsRight now, many firms are experimenting with ways to find efficiencies and reduce costs. For example, lights that automatically turn off to save energy are common in offices today, but can be a distraction if employees have to constantly move around to trigger motion detectors. Integrating lighting systems with video feeds and access control creates the ability to control the lights depending on exactly who is in the room and where they are sitting. Tracking the movement of employees Camera data has been used in retail to track the movement of customers in stores, helping managers to optimize displays and position stocks. The same technology can be used to map out how employees move around a workspace, finding out where productivity gains can be made by moving furniture around or how many desks should be provisioned. Other potential uses of the same data could be to look for correlations between staff movement – say to a store room – and sales spikes, to better predict stock ordering. What makes ACaaS truly exciting is it is still a very new field, and we’re only just scratching the surface of the number of ways that it can be used to create new sources of value. As smart buildings and smart city technology evolves, more and more open systems will become available, offering more ways to combine, analyze and draw insights from data. Within a few years, it will become the rule, rather than the exception, and only grow in utility as it does.

Critical infrastructure facilities that must secure large areas with extended outer boundary and numerous entry points, present a particularly difficult challenge when it comes to perimeter protection. As such, true end-to-end perimeter protection calls for the utilization of a sophisticated, multi-layered solution that is capable of defending against anticipated threats. Integrated systems that incorporate thermal imaging, visible cameras, radar and strong command and control software are crucial for covering the various potential areas of attacks. Let’s look at these technologies and the five key functions they enable to achieve an end-to-end solution that provides intrusion detection, assessment and defense for the perimeter. 1. Threat Recognition The first step in effectively defending against a threat is recognizing that it’s there. By combining state-of-the-art intrusion detection technologies, facilities can arm themselves with a head start against possible intruders. An exceptionally important aspect of effective perimeter protection is the ability to conduct 24-hour surveillance, regardless of weather conditions, environmental settings, or time of day. Visible cameras do not perform as well in low light scenarios and inclement weather conditions. However, thermal imaging cameras can provide constant protection against potential intruders, regardless of visual limitations, light source or many environmental factors. In fact, facilities such as power stations located near bodies of water can use thermal cameras to create what is known as a “thermal virtual fence” in areas where they are unable to utilize the protection of a physical fence or wall. Deterring suspicious activity can be achieved through real-time two-way audio, a simple but powerful tool Critical infrastructure applications require not only continuous video surveillance and monitoring, but also a solution that yields highly reliable intrusion detection, with fewer false alarms. This need makes advanced video analytics a must for any adequate surveillance system. Features like dynamic event detection and simplified data presentation are game changing in supporting accurate intrusion analysis and facilitating a proactive response. Advanced analytics will provide multiple automated alarm notification options, including email, edge image storage, digital outputs or video management software (VMS) alarms. Incorporating high quality, unique and adaptive analytics can virtually eliminate false alarms, allowing security personnel to respond more efficiently and effectively, while also lowering overall cost for the end user. While surveillance technologies such as radar, thermal imaging and visible cameras, or video analytics work well on their own, utilizing all of these options together provides an advanced perimeter detection system. For example, ground surveillance radar can detect possible threats beyond the fence line as they approach and send a signal to pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, triggering them to slew to a specific location. From there, embedded analytics and visible cameras can further identify objects, notify authorized staff, and collect additional evidence through facial recognition or high-quality photos. 2. Automatic Response Systems Once an intrusion attempt is discovered, it is important to act fast. Organizing a response system that can initiate actions based on GPS location data, such as the slewing of PTZ cameras, automated intruder tracking or activated lighting sensors, greatly increases staff’s situational awareness while easing their workload. For instance, thermal imagers deployed in conjunction with video analytics can be used to generate an initial alarm event, which can then trigger a sequence of other security equipment and notifications for personnel to eventually respond to. Having all of this in place essentially lays the entire situation out in a way that allows responders to accurately understand and evaluate a scene. Power stations located near bodies of water can use thermal cameras to create a “thermal virtual fence” in areas where they are unable to utilize the protection of a physical fence or wall 3. Deterring Suspicious Activity  After the designated auto-response mechanisms have activated and done their job, it is time for responders to acknowledge and assess the situation. From here, authorized personnel can take the next appropriate step toward defending against and delaying the threat. Deterring suspicious activity can be achieved through real-time two-way audio, a simple but powerful tool. Often, control room operators can diffuse a situation by speaking over an intercom, telling the trespasser that they are being watched and that the authorities have been notified. This tactic, known as ‘talk down’, also allows officers to view the intruder’s reaction to their commands and evaluate what they feel the best next step is. If individuals do not respond in a desired manner, it may be time to take more serious action and dispatch a patrolman to the area. 4. Delay, Defend, Dispatch And Handle The possible danger has been identified, recognized and evaluated. Now it is time to effectively defend against current attacks and slow down both cyber and physical perpetrators’ prospective efforts. Through the use of a well-designed, open platform VMS, security monitors can manage edge devices and other complementary intrusion detection and response technologies, including acoustic sensors, video analytics, access control and radio dispatch. A robust VMS also enables operators to control functions such as video replay, geographical information systems tracking, email alerts and hand-off to law enforcement. With the right combination of technologies, facilities can take monitoring and evidence collection to the next level The primary purpose of the delay facet of the overall perimeter protection strategy is to stall an attempted intrusion long enough for responders to act. Access control systems play a key role in realizing this objective. When a security officer sees a non-compliant, suspicious individual on the camera feed, the officer can lock all possible exits to trap them in one area all through the VMS. 5. Intelligence: Collect Evidence And Debrief More data and intelligence collected from an event equals more crucial evidence for crime resolution and valuable insight for protecting against future incidents. With the right combination of technologies, facilities can take monitoring and evidence collection to the next level. One innovative resource that has become available is a live streaming application that can be uploaded to smart phones and used for off-site surveillance. This app gives personnel the power to follow intruders with live video anywhere and allows operators to monitor alarm video in real-time. Geographic Information System (GIS) maps are computer systems utilized for capturing, storing, reviewing, and displaying location related data. Capable of displaying various types of data on one map, this system enables users to see, analyze, easily and efficiently. Multi-sensor cameras, possessing both visible and thermal capabilities, provide high-contrast imaging for superb analytic detection (in any light) and High Definition video for evidence such as facial ID or license plate capture. Integrating these two, usually separated, camera types into one helps to fill any gaps that either may normally have. Still, in order to capture and store all of this valuable information and more, a robust, VMS is required. Recorded video, still images and audio clips serve as valuable evidence in the event that a trial must take place to press charges. Control room operators can use data collection tools within their VMS to safely transfer video evidence from the field to the courtroom with just a few clicks of their mouse. More advanced video management systems can go a step further and package this data with other pertinent evidence to create a comprehensive report to help ensure conviction.

For those of you old enough to remember, video matrix switchers were once the heyday of surveillance camera control. These cumbersome antiques were at the heart of every major video surveillance system (video surveillance at the time) in premier gaming properties, government installations and corporate industrial complexes. They required more physical labor to construct and configure than perhaps the pyramids – maybe not – but you get the picture. And then digital video made its way in to the market and everything changed, transforming the physical demands for camera control and management from a hardware-centric to a software driven process. We’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely There’s no doubt that this migration also presented significant challenges as many security professionals often struggled with all things IT and software programming being one of the industry’s soft spots. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely. However, the complexities of today’s VMS functionality can be intimidating for anyone tasked with installing one of these systems given all of the user-defined options available from the simplest camera sequencing and bandwidth allocations to mobile management and enterprise level integration. This is where truly advanced VMS solutions need to shine on both the operations and the design/build sides of the equation. Smart VMS Design There are more solutions products labelled “VMS solutions” out there than ever before. The issue is the fact that many of these “solutions” really don’t fall into the category of a true VMS by today’s standards but offer basic camera and NVR control. No doubt that there is a place for such software programs in the market. However, VMS solutions from the likes of OnSSI and other industry-leading companies offer distinct and superior management and control capabilities for demanding security and business intelligence applications. Perhaps of equal importance, these top-tier VMS solutions incorporate provisions for installers, so they have a clear and easier implementation path. OnSSI offers VMS solutions with smart camera drivers Here are seven attributes that can assist with the design and implementation of an advanced VMS solution: 1) Open Architecture Platform We need the ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth  The ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth is largely dependent on a systems platform architecture. Here’s where VMS solutions with open architecture provide a distinct advantage. Open-architecture solutions expand functionality by facilitating greater integration between multiple systems and components. This not only makes VMS solutions with open architecture easier to implement, it makes them extremely cost-efficient by eliminating the need for proprietary solutions. Open architecture systems also provide adherence to industry standards such as ONVIF and PSIA, as well as compression formats such as H.265 and MJPEG, and help ensure system integration and support of an extensive range of manufacturers’ cameras and off-the-shelf hardware. Be wary of VMS solutions with limited camera manufacturer support. 2) Simple Licensing Processes And Pricing Camera licenses and pricing is always a touchy subject, as any misunderstanding of a specific VMS solutions’ licensing terms can prove to be costly after the fact. And it often seems that some VMS suppliers have gone to great lengths to complicate the process as to obscure actual Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Perhaps the most direct, simple and straightforward camera licensing and pricing method is to have one license per IP address used by each camera/encoder on multi-channel devices. These should be perpetual licenses with no required annual fees or subscriptions. Additionally, the licensing agreement should be all inclusive without added fees for multiple clients, failover servers, active directory support, I/O devices, redundant management servers, technical support or security patches and updates. 3) Mixing And Matching Camera License Types The ability to mix and match different camera license types within the same system helps facilitate a seamless and simple migration of new and pre-existing systems with minimal downtime or interruption in operation. The ability to mix and match camera licenses not only saves valuable design and installation time, it can provide considerable savings when integrating large, multi-tenant systems. Mix and match capabilities also allow system designers to apply specific feature sets to specific groups of cameras to best leverage functionality and budgets, as well as providing the flexibility to implement an on-site, virtual, or cloud-based VMS solution, without any additional cost. 4) Auto Camera Detection And Configuration Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements. This functionality allows installers to instantly locate cameras on the network and configure them centrally so they can easily replace older cameras while seamlessly retaining video recorded from them. The auto detection capability should also include the ability to detect and import CSV files, which can then be stored and used to configure camera templates for future camera installation profiles. 5) Smart Camera Driver Technology VMS solutions with smart camera drivers offer valuable assistance during system implementation, and any time new cameras are added to the network or replace older models. Manufacturer-specific smart camera drivers expand the range of model-specific static drivers. Instead of storing the device’s information (codecs, resolutions, frame rates, etc.) statically, a VMS with smart camera drivers queries devices for their capabilities using the manufacturers’ proprietary protocol. All that is required for configuration is that the camera is available on the network. Smart camera drivers eliminate the need to wait for model-specific drivers or installation of driver packs, allowing for newly released cameras to be used immediately. Network security is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers  6) Importance Of Network Security Network Security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today Network security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today. This is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers. New security developments to look for include TLS 1.2 encryption protocols for camera-to-server communications (SSL 3.0 supported for older cameras), as well as server-to-server communications. Additional safeguards to consider include: randomized video databases with no camera identification information to secure recorded data; support for Active Directory authentication; AES encryption between servers and clients; and AES encrypted exporting. 7) Automatic Updates Regardless of the supplier you select for your VMS solution, they should be consistently providing new updates and security patches on a frequent if not regular basis. Keeping up with these updates can be a burden and are often overlooked leading to system failures and breeches. Advanced VMS solutions now feature automatic update service checks on a system-wide basis, eliminating the need to manually update individual servers and devices. This ensures that your VMS system always has the latest drivers, fixes and updates which assures overall security while reducing TCO. So next time you’re getting a demo of the latest and greatest VMS solution, remember to ask what it offers in terms of design and implementation tools. Half the battle with new technologies is getting them installed and working properly. Without the right tools to accomplish these critical first steps, all the functionality in the world will do you little good.

Security’s intersection with consumer electronics is on view at CES 2020, the world’s largest technology event, Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas. The giant show features more than 170,000 attendees, 4,500 exhibitors and 1,100 industry thought-leaders featured on the CES stage. A range of technologies will be on display, from artificial intelligence (AI) to 5G, vehicle technology to AR/VR (augmented and virtual reality), robotics to home automation. Security plays a prominent role, too.The impact of this event for the smart home could be about delivering home analytics and enhancing privacy" Smart home market on the forefront The smart home market is a major focus. “For the smart home market at CES this year, we expect to see numerous announcements regarding home awareness,” says Blake Kozak, Senior Principal Analyst at IHS Markit. “This will include brands offering up additional analytics for consumer security cameras with a focus on edge-based solutions.” “The impact of this [event] for the smart home could be about delivering home analytics and enhancing privacy through cloudless architectures and new electronic door lock approaches,” he adds. An example of cloud analytics is the Resideo Home app, introduced in December, which will make whole-home monitoring possible for four critical networks of the home – water, air, energy and security. Resideo promises a “simplified and integrated smart home experience.” Video is also prominent at the show. “For cameras, we can expect to see more cameras focused on the outdoor space and possibly new form factors for video doorbells,” says Kozak. Familiar security industry brands exhibiting at CES 2020 include ADT, Ring, August Home and Yale (both part of ASSA ABLOY), Bosch and Alarm.com. Focus on Cybersecurity In 2020, companies will continue to focus on solutions for protecting consumer data" Cybersecurity is an aspect of many of the devices on display at CES. “Device security and data privacy play a key role in the adoption of connected devices,” says Elizabeth Parks, President, Parks Associates. “Consumer security concerns for smart home products will continue to be a barrier to adoption in the U.S. and Europe, and these concerns can actually intensify with device adoption-71% of U.S. smart home households are concerned about cybersecurity. In 2020, companies will continue to focus on solutions for protecting consumer data. One big area of interest is protection on the network router, providing whole home solutions, which are very appealing to consumers.” “At CES we will see the traditional players introducing new DIY (do-it-yourself) products, as well as new players announcing new product features, services, and partnerships,” Parks adds. Smart access control Smart locks will be among the security products at CES 2020. For example, PassiveBolt, a lock company, will show the Shepherd Lock, a touch-enabled smart lock with enhanced security through sensors and AI. The add-on lock converts existing locksets into touch-activated devices. Another lock manufacturer is Kwikset, whose door locks and door hardware include Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks, Bluetooth-enabled smart locks, keyless and keyway-less locks and connected home technology. Video doorbells, including industry-innovator Ring, have been a hit in the consumer market. At CES, Ring will expand the mission to make neighborhoods safer by creating a “Ring of Security” around homes and communities with a suite of home security products and services. The “Neighbors by Ring” app enables affordable, complete, proactive home and neighborhood security. Homeguard offers a range of affordable CCTV solutions for home and small business DIY CCTV demonstrations DIY security systems are another market. Homeguard is a leading DIY consumer brand offering a range of affordable CCTV solutions for home and small business, including wired and wireless CCTV kits, smart cameras, home alarm systems and wire-free HD CCTV kits. Swann Communications is also at the forefront of surveillance and monitoring with new products developments including wire-free HD cameras and doorbells, professional CCTV video surveillance systems, and 1080p full HD systems with “True Detect” heat and motion sensing. AVTECH, and subsidiary YesGo Tech, will demonstrate a compact Wi-Fi home security set, a series of special cameras with face recognition, thermal detection and license plate recognition, customized central management software and a university ID tag that is compatible with access control, OEM and ODM opportunities. Security and automation solutions D-Link’s home networking, security and automation solutions will help consumers connect, view, share, entertain, work and play. SECO-LARM, manufacturer of a Room Occupancy Monitor that shows whether a room is in use, has a line of keypads and proximity readers with built-in Bluetooth for convenient access. Another smart home security solutions provider, Climax Technology, integrates wireless security, home automation, energy management, home emergency monitoring and live visual monitoring. Personal safety mobile application Manufacturers are positioning outdoor cameras as deterrents to theft before a burglary happens" WaryMe designs and develops a personal safety mobile application to improve a user’s security in public places, schools, transports and companies by addressing major risks such as terrorism attacks, intrusion, fire and even industrial accidents. An all-in-one mobile application integrates alerting, crisis management and mass notification features. “Market players are looking to expand beyond established smart home devices like smart thermostats and networked cameras to products like smart water leak detectors, smart pet feeders, and smart air purifiers,” says Elizabeth Parks. “Manufacturers are positioning outdoor cameras as deterrents to theft before a burglary happens. This trend is part of a broader security marketing effort to extend the perimeter of home security beyond traditional home access points.” “Familiarity with smart home devices lags behind familiarity with smart entertainment products; it even lags that of smart speakers, which are quite new in the market,” adds Parks. “In 2020, we will see players working to advance the visibility and marketing around device integration, and specifically focus on use case scenarios around safety, security, and convenience, which have always been the primary drivers of adoption of these types of products.”

Whether it is video analytic platforms to monitor traffic patterns or cameras deployed to help law enforcement ensure public safety, many cities are looking at advancements in video technology. Upgrade costs and technology compatibility issues are often front-and-center when it comes to blending new technology with existing infrastructure. For example, if the city law enforcement officials want to improve video camera image quality, which can improve the evidentiary value of footage in prosecutions, they may look at newer HD or IP-based video systems.   Upgrading To A Hybrid DVR System Applications include perimeter monitoring, public parking, city transportation, square/town safetyTo stretch a tight budget, a migration plan to an IP-based camera system could be phased in over time by centering the upgrade on a new hybrid DVR system. This way, both existing analog and newer IP-based cameras can be hooked into the system. For example, Hikvision’s Smart City Solutions include systems for government services, transportation and traffic management, or any combinations of these. Applications include perimeter monitoring, public parking, city transportation, square/town safety and temporary surveillance. Data capture form to appear here! Heart Of City Strategy Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, has introduced its ‘Heart of City (HOC)’ strategy, which is in line with the top-level design experience from hundreds of city projects. The strategy is based on the maturity of five technologies – artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing, IoT and 5G. The combination will enable the evolution of smart city 3.0 and bring great changes to our life, according to Dahua. A 300-plus camera city center video surveillance scheme in the UK city of Lincoln has been installed and commissioned using Dahua's cameras, monitors and switching equipment A 300-plus camera city center video surveillance scheme in the UK city of Lincoln has been installed and commissioned using cameras, monitors and switching equipment from Dahua Technology. The design of the new all-wireless encrypted system was based around delivering flexible technology, reducing the total cost of ownership, ease of installation, lower maintenance requirements, smart edge analytics and remote connectivity.   Future-Proof Radio Network Design Environmentally friendly aspects of the project included specifying lower-energy equipment, integrating remote support and recycling hardware wherever possible. The installation of the new IP full HD system and network is part of Lincoln’s smart city strategy – Vision 2020 – which seeks to harness new technologies to improve the lives of citizens. One of the results is the provision of free Wi-Fi in the city, working alongside the Dahua cameras using the same IP wireless network. Wearables are another new aspect of city surveillance system. For example, FLIR Systems, Inc. has announced FLIR TruWITNESS, a wearable sensor platform designed for city-level security and public safety operations. TruWITNESS combines video, audio, location data, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and cloud and management software in one solution, allowing organizations to reach a new level of situational awareness. TruWITNESS is worn on an individual’s body or mounted inside vehicles and is designed for any public safety organization that requires on-scene, real-time mobile surveillance   TruWITNESS is designed for any public safety organization that requires on-scene, real-time mobile surveillance. Worn on an individual’s body or mounted inside vehicles, TruWITNESS includes visible-video, audio, global navigation satellite system (GNSS), gyroscope, accelerometer and magnetometer sensors. These sensors combine to send alerts and stream data to a central command center in real-time to ensure full situational awareness and global event handling. Featuring FLIR Neighbor Aware inter-device connectivity, TruWITNESS acts as an IoT device, triggering nearby TruWITNESS devices, fixed and motorized Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) security cameras, and other connected sensors to act upon an alarm event. TruWITNESS becomes a key component of FLIR Systems’ Video Management System, United VMS, which command centers use to manage video surveillance. United VMS combines video, audio, and other related data and makes it available for real-time situation management and forensic purposes. Video Analytics For Crowd Monitoring Crowd monitoring video analytics solutions continuously monitor vast areas instantly alerting police of any overcrowding areas. Qognify’s crowd monitoring video analytics solution was successfully used during the Maratha Morcha in the city of Kolhapur, India, on October 15th, 2016. The system monitored approximately one million protestors through 165 cameras installed across city. Smart threshold alerts were streamed directly into the control room while the crowd was building up, so that action could be taken before the crowd density reached dangerous levels, alleviating crowd safety and stability. Crowd monitoring video analytics solutions monitor vast areas instantly alerting police of any overcrowding areas At the core of the solution is Situator, Qognify’s advanced PSIM/Situation Management solution, which manages a myriad of security systems and sensors, including Qognify’s video management solution, from a newly built state-of-the-art Command and Control Center. Security operators and officials have advanced situational awareness of what is happening in their city and where. Automated, pre-defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were designed, in the local language Marathi, for handling routine security incidents as well as disaster management, ensuring that the most effective response is initiated, and procedures are executed in a consistent manner. Maintaining Law, Order And Safety Qognify also implemented its Safe City solution in Navi Mumbai, a planned township that was established to handle the population overflow from the overcrowded and ever-growing city of Mumbai, India. Together with CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation, the agency established for managing the new city) and system integrator WIPRO, Qognify designed an integrated and holistic solution that helps Navi police to maintain law, order and safety.  Qognify’s Video Management Solution controls hundreds of surveillance camerasAs a planned township, Navi Mumbai officials have the benefit of operating in a modern environment, allowing them to maximize Qognify’s Safe City solution. The Qognify Situator is an advanced Situation Management platform, and Qognify’s Video Management Solution controls the hundreds of surveillance cameras throughout the city. Role Of Standards In Smart Cities “Standards can assist in successfully deploying a comprehensive [safe cities] system with multiple technologies into a single, cohesive entity,” said Per Björkdahl, Chair of the ONVIF Steering Committee. “With the ability to integrate various sensors and data from many different devices synthesized through one interface, government officials and law enforcement are afforded a more complete picture of their city’s security.”   Deployment Of Facial Recognition Technology Live video streaming within the smart and safe city’s infrastructure means video’s capabilities can go beyond simple evidence recording and evolve into a tool that allows operations teams to monitor and remediate against incidents as they are happening. Facial recognition technology can be added on to any video surveillance camera that is recording at a high quality This can be taken one step further with the deployment of facial recognition via live streaming video. Facial recognition technology can be added on to any video surveillance camera that is recording at a high enough quality to identify faces. The technology works by capturing video, streaming the live video back to a control center and matching faces against any watch lists that the control center owns. Importantly, the data of people who aren’t on watch lists is not stored by the technology. This technology can work to make the city safer in a number of ways. For example, facial recognition could spot a known drug dealer in a city center where they weren’t supposed to be, or facial recognition could identify if a group of known terror suspects were visiting the same location at the same time, and this would send an alert to the police. Read parts one and three of our Smart Cities miniseries.

Safety and Security Things GmbH (SAST) will be both a first-time exhibitor at ISC West and also feature a larger booth – 1,800 square feet. The Bosch startup is looking to make a big splash in its first-time appearance at the largest security trade show in the United States. The International Security Conference & Exposition (ISC West) will be held April 10-12 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. Founded in September 2018 and based in Munich, Germany, SAST is building a new Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for the security and safety industry, including an app store, an open and secure camera operating system, a software developer environment, and a portal for providing knowledge and functionalities tailored to integrators. SAST’s Open IoT Platform The open IoT platform is based on an open standardized operating system for video security cameras The open IoT platform is based on an open standardized operating system for video security cameras that creates a common basis for innovation and growth for the security industry. Apps built on SAST will enable airports, restaurants, stadiums and other facilities to transform security cameras into smart devices. The first partners are already developing apps based on the SAST ecosystem. “We will bring all the partners of our platform together and will showcase the first applications already realised on the platform,” says Nikolas Mangold-Takao, SAST Vice President of Marketing and Product Management. “In order to showcase this effectively at ISC West, we will create a space to demonstrate solutions effectively. At the same time, we are using the booth as our meeting space and will create a collaborative environment for our partners and all participants.” IoT And Access Control  “We want to ensure that all visitors of our booth (No. 10073) are getting to see first-hand solutions which are already realised based on first apps and cameras using our Operating System,” he adds. “We also want to demonstrate the benefits of the SAST platform for solution developers, integrators and manufacturers.” SAST is about bringing different players from the industry together in order to deliver better solutions" SAST will be looking for measurable results at ISC West. “On the one hand, we measure results by hard facts, such as the number of new partners who will join us and how satisfied our current ones are with the output,” says Mangold-Takao. “On the other hand, direct feedback from visitors at the booth, especially professionals from our industry and end-customers, is also extremely important to us, and we will measure it. SAST is about bringing different players from the industry together in order to deliver better solutions.” Openpath Access Solution Another new exhibitor with a relatively large booth is Openpath, whose booth (No. 23051) will be 1,200 square feet. Openpath Access combines cloud-based software and sleek hardware with an app to enable hands-free access to an office using a smartphone that doesn’t need to leave your pocket.  Although large for first-time exhibitors, the Openpath and SAST booths fall squarely in the “medium range” of overall exhibit sizes at ISC West – larger than the smallest 100-square-feet exhibits typical for many first-time exhibitors, but still smaller than the largest booths such as Hanwha Techwin America (5,500 square feet). In addition to the new exhibitors on the main show floor, the Emerging Technology Zone, located in the Venetian Ballroom, will welcome new startups in the security marketplace.

RCP21, a pioneering Community Interest Company (CIC), has used SmartTask to help set up and manage an in-house security operation at Langthwaite Business Park in South Kirkby, West Yorkshire. The workforce management software was adopted to coordinate a full-time team of officers, tasked with protecting 120 businesses located at the site, without the need to increase management and administrative resource within the organization. SmartTask has since enabled RCP21 to deliver a superior security service in the most reliable and efficient manner. Workforce management solution “As managing agents of Langthwaite Business Park, we had previously outsourced the security requirements, but we took the decision to bring the service in-house,” explains Nicola Parker, Operations Manager at RCP21. “We recognized the need for a proven workforce management solution that would underpin our security solution moving forward. SmartTask has given us the visibility and control needed to deliver our service and provide customers with complete peace of mind.” SmartTask is used to manage RCP21’s full-time team at Langthwaite Business Park that provides a range of security services including CCTV monitoring, mobile patrols and keyholding and alarm response. SmartTask-enabled smartphones are used to scan 32 checkpoint tags around the site, so RCP21 has full visibility of mobile patrols that take place. Submit incident reports SmartTask has proved to be a hugely useful tool that is delivering value across our security operation" The software’s SmartForm functionality also enables security officers to electronically view their daily tasks; complete vehicle safety checks; and submit incident reports. In particular, the incident reporting tool allows a security officers on patrol or responding to an alarm response to capture all essential information, including any photo evidence, via a smartphone. This means RCP21 has an electronic record of any incident in real-time, so it can take immediate and appropriate action as well as share relevant details to the customer. Monthly performance reports can be taken from SmartTask, while incident data is included within the business park’s newsletter to provide information in relation to crimes and incidents on the park. Mobile workforce management  “SmartTask has proved to be a hugely useful tool that is delivering value across our security operation. The software is simple and easy to use by all staff involved and is effective in enabling us to monitor and deliver our security services to a very high standard,” concludes Parker. Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask: “Our cloud-based employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software is highly configurable and scalable, making it an ideal solution for any security operation. Whether you are a top 30 security company or a small in-house team, it is possible to take advantage of SmartTask’s user-friendly, feature-rich functionality to better plan, manage, deliver and report on your security services.”

Located 40 kilometers outside the Russian capital, the new Mercedes-Benz passenger car factory is a showcase for Industry 4.0 automotive manufacturing. To ensure the safety of more than 1,000 employees at the massive facility, Bosch provided a fire alarm and security system, replete with voice evacuation capabilities to meet the specific safety needs of modern-day car factories. Future of car manufacturing Walking into the main manufacturing hall of the new Mercedes-Benz Cars plant in the Moscow region is to see the future of automotive production. Amid glass walls and high ceilings, robots and humans work side-by side to assemble the company’s most popular limousines for the Russian market. From chassis welding to windshield installation to painting, the plant combines all production steps in the same building as part of a ‘one-roof concept’. But from a fire safety perspective, the ‘one-roof concept’ with its tall factory ceilings and open floorplan poses challenges. The reason: Conventional, point-type fire detectors exceed their performance limit when it comes to detecting smoke particles inside such a vast, air-conditioned space. Working closely with the client, experts of Ateksis, the system integrator who lead this project, realized that early fire detection would take a solution just as innovative as the futuristic car factory itself. Safety for automotive factories They can detect fires in the beginning stages (called the “smoldering” phase) even before visible smoke is released Additionally, Mercedes-Benz required a centrally controlled combination of intrusion alarm and video security to guard the entire perimeter of the 85-hectare facility with its total of seven buildings. And could the solution be ready within a few weeks for the plant’s grand opening featuring international dignitaries? Working on a tight timeline, the team of Bosch and Ateksis experts selected a fitting smoke detection technology: aspirating smoke detectors. Perfectly suited for large warehouses, the detection units are located within a pipe system that constantly ‘inhales’ samples of air, which are checked for smoke particles via intelligent signal processing technology. As a result, the light-based detectors achieve smoke sensitivities as precise as 0.05%. They can detect fires in the beginning stages (called the “smoldering” phase) even before visible smoke is released. electrical interference for reliability Aspirating detectors also pinpoint the exact location of fires, thus reliably preventing major damage in most cases. The system also suppresses environmental factors that typically cause false alarms in car factories, including dust, flying sparks and electrical interference for maximum reliability. “The Mercedes-Benz project is an important reference for us. It shows the level of integration and customer focus made possible by Bosch solutions. Our system has succeeded in meeting the specific needs of automobile manufacturers in the next generation of car production facilities”, said Ivan Konukhin, Bosch Security and Safety Systems Russia. audio sound quality The ceiling loudspeakers are equipped with a metal fire dome to adapt to the in-air handling spaces Amid the acoustic conditions inside the vast production plant, a total of 650 horn and ceiling loudspeakers from Bosch deliver sufficient volume and intelligibility. The horn speakers offer a wide opening angle to broadcast sound across factory floors while offering protection from water and dust, as well as the corrosive effects of industrial environments. What’s more, the ceiling loudspeakers are equipped with a metal fire dome to adapt to the in-air handling spaces of the automotive plant. The cabinet loudspeakers are certified according to the fire evacuation EN54-24 standard for reliable performance under emergency conditions. Overall, this level of audio sound quality directly serves to keep workers secure and informed, especially if evacuation becomes necessary. automatic fire detectors In the bigger picture, the total of 248 aspirating detectors inside the main production hall are centrally networked via Modular Fire Panels 5000 series and connected to more than 2,500 automatic fire detectors installed throughout six additional administrative buildings on the premises. For maximum employee safety, clear voice and audio alarm is provided by the PRAESIDEO Digital Public Address and Voice Alarm System. With Smart Safety Link, the interfaced fire and voice alarm system offers a full control in case of emergency, including the customization of the fire verification time and the automatic process that can ensure a safe phased evacuation. To ensure full visibility of the premises and around-the-clock safety, the video security solution consists of 112 high-definition cameras from Bosch. While bullet and moving cameras secure the perimeter, dome cameras monitor inside spaces. Video Management System Integrated on the Bosch Video Management System, all cameras can be controlled by the on-site security team Integrated on the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), all cameras can be controlled centrally by the on-site security team inside the control room. Bringing security full-circle, the video system has a direct interface with intrusion alarm system containing over 200 detectors. This seamless integration of all solutions on the Building Integration System (BIS) from Bosch enables a host of additional functions: for instance, the system alerts the control room when a fire detector is triggered and sends live images from the nearest camera for full situational awareness. Aspiration smoke detector As Ivan Konukhin at the Regional Representative Center North-West and South Russia at Bosch Security Systems explains: “The cooperative functionalities between BIS and BVMS components were programmed according to customer requirements in an uncomplicated manner via macros, which also supported a timely installation.” Bosch Security System’s solution consists of: FPA-5000 Modular Fire Panel Solution Smart Safety Link License key for voice alarm Aspiration smoke detector 2 pipe systems AVENAR detector 4000 PRAESIDEO Digital Public Address and Voice Alarm System Metal Fire Dome Cabinet loudspeaker, metal, rectangular Horn loudspeaker, 10W, 6x10" Ceiling loudspeaker, 6W, ABS MAP 5000 family IP4000i, 5000i and 6000 cameras AUTODOME IP Cameras Access Control System Bosch Video Management System Building Integration System

Peake ReLeaf is a local and independently-owned medical cannabis dispensary facility, located in Rockville, Maryland. Through its recently-opened, 4,200-square-foot facility, the company provides a wide range of cannabis and cannabis-infused products to patients with a valid medical marijuana certification, to treat a variety of qualifying conditions such as anorexia, cachexia, chronic or severe pain, glaucoma, PTSD, seizures, severe nausea, and severe or persistent muscle spasms. Installing an efficient video surveillance system While Peake ReLeaf faces the ordinary challenges of any small business as a cannabis dispensary, it is also subject to a number of stringent Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) regulations, which include strict requirements for video surveillance that dictate video quality, system performance, storage and other factors. After much research, they decided to contract Skyline Technology Solutions for their surveillance system because of their transparency, robust IT background and previous experience with medical marijuana facilities. Wisenet QND-6010R dome cameras for indoor surveillance Skyline recommended that PeakReleaf install cameras from Hanwha Techwin America Based on the regulatory needs and many conversations about how they wanted their business to operate, Skyline recommended that PeakReleaf install cameras from Hanwha Techwin America to secure both the interior and exterior of the facility. For indoor use, Skyline installed Wisenet QND-6010R vandal-resistant dome cameras that offer picture clarity so facial features could be easily identified. Wisenet QNV-7080R cameras for outdoor surveillance For outdoor use, Peak ReLeaf chose the Wisenet QNV-7080R cameras that provide 4-megapixel image quality with true wide dynamic range (WDR), motion detection, defocus detection and tampering detection at an affordable price. Both camera models, Wisenet QND-6010R and Wisenet QNV-7080R cameras come integrated with WiseStream II compression technology that can reduce bandwidth by 50%. WiseStream II compression technology WiseStream II compression technology dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement in the image resulting far less bandwidth and storage requirements. This allowed Peake ReLeaf to meet the MMCC storage requirements in a cost-effective manner. Since the dispensary’s opening, Hanwha cameras have continuously provided the performance and capabilities to ensure Peake ReLeaf remains in compliance with the strict MMCC requirements, even as they continue to evolve moving forward. Cameras featuring onboard video analytics The Hanwha cameras have made it easier to identify and view video thanks to their ability to flag video based on motion or other factors using onboard video analytics. “Hanwha cameras offer us the video quality we need, and the cameras’ video analytic and other capabilities provide us with the flexibility that will allow us to quickly adapt to the inevitable regulatory changes that will come as we navigate this very new industry in Maryland,” said Nate Miller, one of the founding members and Peake ReLeaf’s Executive Vice President.

JEWISH CARE has placed its trust in the latest access control, door entry and CCTV technology, to help create a safe and secure environment for residents living in Anita Dorfman House, a new 64-bed care home facility recently erected at its Sandringham care and community hub in Stanmore. Phase 1 of the project has seen the MEPH contractor Harvey Group, award a contract to South London system integrator WLS, to install a Paxton Net2 access control and door entry system with the objective of ensuring that JEWISH CARE has strict control as to who is able to enter the accommodation block or gain access to its sensitive areas. Home management control Paxton proximity card readers and door entry panels have been installed at the new care home’s 5 entrances which, together with 55 door entry handsets deployed throughout the building, allow JEWISH CARE reception and security personnel monitor all access control events. They are able to do so with the help of Paxton’s user-friendly Net2 software platform run on a desktop PC. WLS has also installed over 60 high definition 4-megapixel network dome cameras manufactured by Dahua at carefully chosen locations both within and around the building, to help detect intruders, as well as visually verify access control activity. In addition, automated barriers will shortly be installed at the site’s entrance. Linked to the CCTV system and triggered by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) analytics, the barriers help care home management control vehicle access to the site. Smooth implementation of the access control JEWISH CARE is the largest health and social care organization serving the Jewish community in London With over 70 centers and services touching the lives of 10,000 people every week, JEWISH CARE is the largest health and social care organization serving the Jewish community in London and the South East. “We go to great lengths to ensure our clients feel safe and this is particularly important as many of them have disabilities, mental health needs or live with dementia,” said Lindsay Long, Facilities Manager at JEWISH CARE. “Investing in the latest generation of access control, door entry and CCTV solutions was therefore considered to be an essential requirement and we have been delighted with how Harvey Group, WLS and the various manufacturers involved in the project, have worked closely together to ensure a smooth implementation of the access control, door entry and CCTV systems.” Stopping unwanted visitors “The combined solution is enabling us to deter and stop any unwanted visitors from entering the building, as well as track and record people as they move around the building, without causing any inconvenience or disruption to colleagues, clients and genuine visitors.” A second phase of the project which is due to be completed by the end of 2020, will see WLS expand the security systems to cover the care home’s new independent living and communal facilities. As was the case during phase 1, WLS has also been tasked to install a TRIAX satellite TV system throughout new facilities, to enable to clients watch British and Israeli TV.

ARST is a public transportation company in Cagliari, Italy. The company operates a massive fleet of about 800 public buses throughout the island of Sardinia. During the vehicle modernization process, the company decided to deploy new centralized CCTV systems to enhance the security level of passengers and drivers. First of all, the low-definition images captured by the original surveillance equipment cannot meet the company’s advanced monitoring needs. Second, the bus driver could not achieve point-to-point communication with the command center in real time. In addition, in case of an accident, there was no emergency button on the bus before to report the emergency to the command center. Customized mobile solution To help ARST revamp its bus security system, a customized Dahua mobile solution consisting of more than 3,000 cameras and 750 MXVRs, Panic Buttons, DSS integrated platform as well as other accessories was employed. The data collected from the front-end cameras is integrated in the control room via DSS4004, where emergency calls, geo-localization of vehicles and statistics can be managed. Each bus is equipped with a penta-hybrid video recorder MXVR6212, 4, 6 or 8 HAC-HDBW2241F cameras Each bus is equipped with a penta-hybrid video recorder MXVR6212, 4, 6 or 8 HAC-HDBW2241F cameras and panic buttons. The main features of the systems are: data encryption, people counting, hot spot, router 3G/4G, dynamic management of the LCD monitor on board and geo-localization via DSS app. As the first mobile XVR adopting HDCVI/AHD/TVI/CVBS/IP signals, MXVR6212 can achieve 1080P high-definition real-time recording. High performance sensor It supports real-time vehicle location tracking and monitoring, and all information such as GPS and video can be uploaded via wireless network - 3G/4G/WIFI. In addition, the device can also support connection of various accessories, such as card readers, fuel sensors, and emergency buttons. Furthermore, it has passed EN50155/ISO16750 to meet the requirements for mobile use. Other than city bus, this device can be used in various applications, such as school bus, taxi, police car, train, truck, etc. The 2MP HAC-HDBW2241F-M-A mobile camera is designed with a shock-proof compact case, which makes it convenient to be installed and adaptable to various applications. Boasting the strengths of the Dahua self-developed HDCVI technology, the camera offers high quality images and ensures real-time transmission. Also, it adopts a high performance sensor to provide incomparable performance even under extreme lowlight environment. Manage mobile devices The Dahua mobile solution with high-definition monitoring performance reduces theft and robbery on buses The Starlight feature allows capturing of more details and recognizing accurate colors at night or in scenes with limited illumination. At the control room, Dahua DSS platform was utilized to control and manage the mobile devices deployed on the bus. It displays real-time location, speed, direction of mobile device, playback device’s history location, and supports alarm for over-speeding, entering and leaving the E-FENCE. Aside from central management, the Business Intelligence feature of Dahua DSS platform also allows the user to export Heat Map reports and people counting statistics, helping operator companies to optimize driving route to generate more profit. High-definition monitoring With upgraded Dahua system, the command center can communicate with every single vehicle of ARST Bus Company in real time, enabling them to deliver instructions to the driver, allowing the driver to report immediately to the command center in case of an emergency through the panic button, and ensuring the safety of passengers and drivers. The Dahua mobile solution with high-definition monitoring performance reduces theft and robbery on buses, and enables bus companies to collect accurate information about traffic flows and automatically download data to assist efficient and profitable operation. The Dahua mobile solution mounted on board has been proven to be highly efficient and reliable, which were also applied in two other Italian bus companies: AMAT Bus Company in Taranto and AMTAB Bus Company in Bari.

Gated aviation fuel farm adjacent to operation building. Client wanted to create a multi-purpose IP solution to detect intrusion from asset theft activating CCTV cameras and create an access control system for a 24-hour operation. Following a thorough site survey, the integrator was able to create a solution that achieved all of its client’s goals. Using 4 Redscan laser detectors in horizontal mode, the integrator was able to secure the fenced perimeter using CCTV surveillance into an IP network that is monitored by the end user. Using unique rules available through VMS, the integrator used a vertically mounted Redscan laser detector to activate/deactivate the intrusion system when a fuel truck would enter and leave the gated fuel farm.

The new school year is a good time to reflect on the role of security in protecting our schools. From video to access control to some newer technologies, our Expert Panel Roundtable found plenty to talk about when we asked this week’s question: How does security technology make our schools safer?

They say that every choice has a cost. It's a basic principle that, economically speaking, nothing is free. If it doesn't cost actual money, it may be expensive in terms of time, attention and/or effort. These are interesting observations to keep in mind as one peruses the various "free" video management system (VMS) offerings available on the market. Some are provided by camera companies to unify their products into a "system", even if it's a small one. Other free VMS offerings are entry-level versions offered by software companies with the intent of the customer upgrading later to a paid version. For more insights, we asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the value of “free” video management systems (VMSs) and how can a customer decide whether “free” is the right price for them?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a current buzzword in the physical security market – and the subject of considerable hype. However, AI sometimes get negative press, too, including dire warnings of its potential and eventual impact from some of our most prominent technology thinkers. We decided to take the issue to our Expert Panel Roundtable with this week’s question: What are the negative impacts and/or new challenges of AI for physical security?