Industrial surveillance

Pedestal PRO, a world renowned manufacturer for access control pedestals, in cooperation with 2N, an Axis company, has introduced a line of purpose-built pedestal solutions designed for use with the 2N IP Verso security intercom system. Integrators and 2N customers can choose from a selection of pedestal and housing options that provide the most elegant presentation of their 2N IP Verso units in settings that preclude wall-mounting. Pedestals are available in various heights and colors and may be paired with attractive housings configured to accommodate any combination of up to three 2N IP Verso Modules, including touch display, touch keypad, Bluetooth reader, fingerprint reader or RFID reader. In addition, special “tower-style” pedestals are available for entryways and lobbies, offering a beautiful, low profile design that complements the aesthetic of premium office space as well as the stylish 2N units. Available in powder coated steel Dimensions and mounting holes on all pedestals and housings have been engineered for the perfect alignment with the 2N modules, ensuring seamless, hassle-free installation. Pedestals are available in powder coated steel or are upgradeable to #304 stainless steel to match architectural facades, prevent rust and improve longevity. Customers can request customized height, width and color, as well as adding additional cutouts and mounting patterns to accommodate third-party hardware. The company provides free CAD engineering services for all special orders. Standard models can ship as quickly as 24 hours; custom orders require just 12-15 business days. Security system manufacturers A “Search by Device” feature displays all Pedestal PRO models compatible with the IP Verso line The pedestals are suitable for the many indoor and outdoor applications where 2N IP intercoms are used, including industrial, commercial, apartments and gated communities. Pedestal PRO, which manufacturers turnkey pedestal solutions for a wide range of leading security system manufacturers, makes it easy for 2N customers and dealers to quickly find and purchase relevant pedestal and housing models via its website. A “Search by Device” feature displays all Pedestal PRO models compatible with the IP Verso line. Spec drawings, installation guides and care and maintenance instructions are all available for download. New mounting options "2N IP Verso is valued by customers who demand both premium performance, and style, from their intercom system. With new mounting options from Pedestal PRO, these customers can now mount their systems anywhere and feel confident that the impression they make, along with the user experience they deliver, are truly best-in-class,” said Pike Goss, CEO of Pedestal PRO. Pedestals are available for order on the company’s website. To learn more about Pedestal PRO solutions for 2N IP Verso, customers can visit Axis Communications in booth #14051, at ISC West, March 18-20 in Las Vegas.

Namib Property Patrols Ltd, the Oxfordshire-based security and protection company, is using employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software SmartTask to streamline operational processes, saving both time and money. The company is using the software for proof of attendance and guard monitoring across its mobile patrol and alarm response operations, which has helped reduce in administration by more than 15-hours a month, while enhancing service delivery to customers. Credible and transparent security services “We strive for quality through technology, so we needed a software solution that would enable us to serve our customers better; operate on tight margins in order to give value for money; and continue to innovate,” explains Joel Shikongo, Operations Director at Namib Property Patrols Ltd. “SmartTask is enabling us to deliver high-quality, credible and transparent security services in the most efficient manner possible.” The simple expandability of the software is enabling the company to take a phased roll-out" SmartTask was selected following a review of the marketplace to replace manual processes that had become time-consuming and no longer met the reporting needs of the business. The simple expandability of the software is enabling the company to take a phased roll-out with plans to adopt additional functionality, such as SmartForms for electronic incident and logbook reporting, in the next 12 months. Alarm response callouts Namib Property Patrols uses SmartTask at around 40 commercial and industrial sites within Oxfordshire to record arrival and departure times for mobile patrols and alarm response callouts. For scheduled patrols, active tags are used at critical and vulnerable points around the customer’s premises, which are scanned by an asset protection officer using a SmartTask-enabled smartphone. These tags can also contain unique messages to communicate specific tasks and patrol requirements. Namib Property Patrols has full visibility of completed work and officer welfare from its head office in Bicester, with the ability to create electronic operational reports at a push of a button. Clients can also log in to an online customer portal to view their individual security activity in real-time and generate bespoke performance reports. Reducing printing costs Our software is already delivering proven results for a wide range of businesses" As a result, the company has been able to dramatically reduce the time needed to compile reports, saving more than 15-hours each month, as well as reducing printing costs by around 50 per cent. “SmartTask is an ideal fit for our brand and values, underpinning our commitment to operational excellence and client satisfaction. The software is not only helping us to streamline our processes and operate more effectively in an ever-evolving world, but also retain and win business by always putting the customer first. SmartTask’s team is always on hand to provide first-rate support and is constantly looking at new ways to improve our service delivery, so they are a highly-valued technology partner,” adds Shikongo. Mobile workforce management solution Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask commented: “We have created an employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that is highly configurable and feature rich, so is a perfect fit for SME, mid-sized and top 30 security companies alike. Our software is already delivering proven results for a wide range of businesses by helping them to better plan, manage, deliver and report on their security services.”

Sean Sutton has been appointed as Cyber Security Partner at PwC UK, based at the Firm’s new Birmingham home at One Chamberlain Square. A former MD for Accenture’s UK & Ireland Cyber Security business, Sean brings over 16 years direct experience. This includes advising clients on topics ranging from security strategy and organizational design to technical security solution design, delivery and implementation. Enhancements financial services organizations As a seasoned program manager, he has led some of the UK’s largest security transformation programs including multi-million-pound capability enhancements for oil and gas, utilities, energy, pharma and financial services organizations. Sean joins PwC as the business continues to deliver large and complex transformations for clients across the UK.                 Based in Birmingham, his primary responsibilities will be to provide leadership for the practice outside of London and he will take responsibility for teams in the Midlands and the North. Part of Sean’s remit will be to grow the team and continue to deliver consulting services to a broad range of clients across both regions where he has an excellent understanding of the marketplace. He will also develop PwC’s Operational Technology security proposition, including the Industrial Internet of Things and operational systems across health, manufacturing and other industries.   Regional growth aspirations It is exciting to be joining the firm at such a pivotal time for its regional growth aspirations" Sean Sutton, Cyber Security Partner at PwC, said: “I'm excited to be taking on this role at such an interesting time. Companies are going through a rapid period of change and disruption, which presents new cyber challenges and opportunities. Increasingly there is a need for businesses to work smarter to respond to these challenges and align cyber priorities to their corporate strategy." "I am confident we can play an important and valuable role in helping our clients navigate this ever-changing environment, especially as they adapt and grow to face the future. It is exciting to be joining the firm at such a pivotal time for its regional growth aspirations. The firm is putting more people, technology and expertise into strategic sites, including its new landmark Birmingham office at One Chamberlain Square." Accelerate digital transformation Matthew Hammond, Midlands Region Chairman and Senior Partner for PwC, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sean to PwC and particularly to focus on clients here in the Midlands and other UK markets. As our 23rd Global CEO survey highlighted 80% of UK CEOs are concerned about the risks of cyber threats to their business, Sean joins the team to lead our clients through the acute and dynamically changing risks and opportunities to leverage technology successfully." "Businesses are wrestling with the speed of technological change, a relative scarcity of specialist key skills and a desire to accelerate digital transformation. Supporting our clients to improve cyber resilience and build strong technology infrastructure is critical to helping achieve sustainable growth. Sean and the team are a key element in providing these business critical services.”

The new open and modular video system platform MOBOTIX 7 fundamentally changes the use of video surveillance and video analysis. With its product portfolio of hardware, software and intelligent partner solutions, MOBOTIX can precisely map the current and even future requirements of various industries. One of the main areas of focus is the industrial and production sector. With MOBOTIX 7, MOBOTIX is completing its product and solution portfolio to meet all requirements in the industrial and production sector. The MOBOTIX MOVE models, the proven Mx6 and the new MOBOTIX 7 series cover all current and even future market requirements. From the high-quality standard camera to the AI-based high-end IoT video system developed for innovative and future applications: Robust, reliable, secure - Beyond Human Vision. Modern video technology Industrial and manufacturing companies benefit from numerous special video analysis apps Much more than safety, modern video technology helps to improve processes. With modern video surveillance and analysis, companies are increasingly able to optimize processes. For example, intelligent MOBOTIX systems can help reduce machine downtime, which makes a decisive contribution to more effective production. The fact that the cameras are maintenance-free is a big plus for company budgets. Industrial and manufacturing companies benefit from numerous special video analysis apps that are already available today and will be available in the near future. "Together with our partners, we are continuously developing intelligent industry solutions that meet the needs of their users. Supported by Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning, our video systems can be tailored precisely to the needs of our customers. In this way, they meet the specific and individual challenges of our customers in industry and production," explains Hartmut Sprave, CTO of MOBOTIX AG. Thermal sensors, infrared illuminators They are ready for use even under extreme conditions like industrial and production plants, extreme environmental conditions prevail in some cases. Temperature fluctuations, dust, humidity - the robust video systems "Made in Germany" defy even difficult external influences and are among the most reliable in the industry. Most Mobotix cameras have an average service life - measured by the Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) - of over 80,000 hours (>9 years). For indoor and outdoor installation, no additional protective housing or air conditioning measures are required. The highly sensitive optics, thermal sensors, infrared illuminators and even the intelligent apps master the most difficult optical conditions, such as darkness, steam, smoke and fog. Data Protection Edge computing eliminates the need for central video servers and recording devices Focus on data security and data protection Edge computing is an elementary component of MOBOTIX DNA. MOBOTIX cameras are high-performance computers with eyes. The entire video analysis - and optionally also the recording - takes place in the camera, with brilliant image quality, in real time and intelligently self-organized. The autonomous IoT cameras transmit images - securely end-to-end encrypted according to the highest standards - into the network only when relevant events occur. Transmitting less data also means that there are fewer opportunities for cyber attacks. Edge computing eliminates the need for central video servers and recording devices. High-quality electronic components Cyber security "Made in Germany" MOBOTIX only uses high-performance, high-quality electronic components. This principle is consistently applied throughout the digital world. Cyber security enjoys the highest priority at MOBOTIX and is lived intensively through the MOBOTIX Cactus Concept. For example, MOBOTIX is certified for cyber security by the internationally renowned French testing institute CNPP (Centre National de Prévention et de Protection) - the first European manufacturer to be so. Data security with regard to the GDPR is also elementary for MOBOTIX. Both access rights and camera settings can be adjusted sensitively and according to the application: 100 percent "Made in Germany" for cyber security. Complete product range "MOBOTIX thus offers industrial and manufacturing companies a complete product range that covers all needs and requirements in industry and production as a complete solution. Together with our partners and end customers, we develop customized systems from our entire product and solution portfolio that optimally meet the industry- and company-specific challenges," says MOBOTIX CEO Thomas Lausten.

KBC Networks will be present at ISC West 2020 with their industrial transmission and remote power solutions on booth 29093 from March 17th – 20th. Well known in the industry for their trusted fiber transmission solutions, KBC will highlight their broad range of fiber products, including their direct replacements for the discontinued IFS and Fiber Options legacy products. KBC’s fiber optic range offers multimode and singlemode solutions for static and PTZ cameras; industrial data systems including RS-485, 232 and 422 telemetry; single and multi-channel contact closure and Ethernet media conversion including Power over Ethernet. Digitally encoded video transmission Both the Mobile and Fixed Base Surveillance Systems are fully compatible with KBC industrial transmission products Solutions include simple point-to-point transmission links, self-healing ring, daisy chain and BUS to custom-build, multi-interface modems with provision for up to 128 real-time video signals plus other signals over a single fiber. The range supports video, audio, data, Ethernet, telephone, contact closure, DVI, HD-SDI, 3G-SDI and USB, and features 8- or 10-bit digitally encoded video transmission. Designed for faster installation and to maximize product density, KBC fiber products are available in compact, wall-mount, DIN rail, 19” rack and cards for 3U or 4U chassis. Built to perform in non-conditioned environments, they are housed in industrially hardened casings and have extended operating temperatures. Mobile Surveillance Systems Also on display this year will be the newest Mobile Surveillance Systems (MSS). After successfully introducing the MSS at ISC West last year, KBC will debut a fixed base unit available for stand-alone design or multiple unit installations. This custom configured solution is ideal for applications requiring semi-permanent or mid to long term video, audio and data security. Both the Mobile and Fixed Base Surveillance Systems are fully compatible with KBC industrial transmission products, including the gigabit wireless and ThruLinkTM hardware-based VPN device. 

Copp Systems, a Dayton, Ohio-based security and communications systems provider, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Copp Systems (formerly Copp Integrated Systems) was founded in 1920 by Roy Stanley Copp, an engineer and member of the “Dayton Boys,” a group of young engineers and students interested in technology. Copp began selling and servicing RCA living room consoles from his Monument Avenue storefront to prominent Dayton families, including the Wrights, Deeds, and Ketterings. As the business grew and new technologies emerged, Copp Systems added numerous communications systems to its offerings. Today, Copp Systems consults, designs, installs and maintains systems that integrate fire/life safety, video surveillance, access control, nurse call, audio-visual systems and monitoring applications. The firm is also proud to be one of the licensees of Footprint, an innovative web-based situational software developed in partnership with the University of Dayton Research Institute’s Software Systems Group. Video monitoring systems We’re always looking for ways to add new facets to our business to meet our customers’ changing needs" Footprint brings together information from multiple video monitoring systems and sensors into one platform, enabling law enforcement to solve cases quicker using data-driven decisions. "Copp Systems’ hundred-year anniversary is a monumental milestone and a testament to our dedication to customer service,” said David Markham, President of Copp Systems. “Our customers know they can depend on us as their trusted advisors to maximize their resources and deliver a superior level of support. We’re always looking for ways to add new facets to our business to meet our customers’ changing needs.” Copp Systems serves a broad range of industries, including public safety, commercial and industrial, health care, education, government and military, transportation, logistics, financial and retail. Under the leadership of owner and CEO Bill DeFries, the company became verified as a Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), opening more opportunities to serve Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the local veteran community. Electronic security industry DeFries says the key to the company’s future success will be its ongoing commitment to education and eagerness to embrace new technologies. “It says a lot about any company to survive – and thrive — for a hundred years,” said DeFries. "But especially in the electronic security industry, it takes forward-thinking and flexibility to stay ahead of the curve and adapt as new technologies are developed. As Copp Systems propels into a new decade, we’re looking forward to unifying organizations and simplifying lives with the latest technology, all while maintaining our long history of quality customer service.”

Global and domestic threats have highlighted the need for tighter security across all verticals. One of the technologies that has redefined situational awareness and intrusion detection is thermal imaging. Once a technology exclusively manufactured for the military operations, thermal cameras today are deployed across hundreds of security applications and continue to see strong demand in existing and emerging commercial markets. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain Technology Overview And Early Adoption What distinguishes thermal cameras from optical sensors is their ability to produce images based on infrared energy, or heat, rather than light. By measuring the heat signatures of all objects and capturing minute differences between them, thermal cameras produce clear, sharp video despite unfavorable environmental conditions. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain. Originally a military developed, commercially qualified technology, the first thermal cameras for military and aircraft use appeared in the 1950s. By the 1960s, the technology had been declassified and the first thermal camera for commercial use was introduced. However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s - when FLIR Systems introduced a camera with an uncooled thermal detector - when the technology began to see substantial adoption beyond government defense deployments. Installations At Critical Infrastructure Sites In the 2000s, industrial companies were some of the first adopters of thermal, using the technology for predictive maintenance to monitor overheating and machine malfunctions. In the years following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, there was an increase in thermal camera installations across critical infrastructure sites. Stricter security requirements drove the deployment of thermal cameras for perimeter protection, especially in the nuclear power sector. Thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and their sharp images result in higher performing analytics In 2010, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Committee released its 73.55 policy, which states nuclear facilities must “provide continuous surveillance, observation and monitoring” as a means to enhance threat detection and deterrence efforts onsite. Because thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and because their sharp images result in higher performing analytics, thermal cameras quickly became the preferred option for nuclear facilities. Likewise, following the 2013 sniper attack on PG&E Corporation’s Metcalf transmission substation, the Federal Energy Regulation Commission introduced the Critical Infrastructure Protection Standard 014 (CIP-014). The policy requires utilities to identify threats to mission critical assets and implement a security system to mitigate those risks. This statute also led to more thermal installations in the utility sector as thermal cameras’ long-range capabilities are ideal for detection of approaching targets beyond the fence line. The demand from both industrial and critical infrastructure entities, as well as other factors, helped drive volume production and price reduction for thermal, making the technology more accessible to the commercial security marketplace. Commercial Applications In recent years, the increasing affordability of thermal cameras along with the introduction of new thermal offerings has opened the door to new commercial applications for the technology. In the past, thermal cameras were designed for applications with enormous perimeters, where the camera needed to detect a human from 700 meters away. Locations like car dealerships, marinas and construction supply facilities can be protected by precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras providing an early warning to security personnel Today, there are thermal cameras specifically designed for short- to mid-range applications. Developed for small to medium enterprises, these thermal cameras ensure property size and security funds are no longer barriers to adoption. Lumber yards, recreation fields and sports arenas are some of the commercial applications now able to implement thermal cameras for 24-hour monitoring and intrusion detection. Affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses Innovation And Advancements Innovation and advancements in the core technology have also spurred growth in thermal camera deployment, providing faster image processing, higher resolution, greater video analytic capabilities and better camera performance. In particular, affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses that need outdoor, wide area protection. Car dealerships, marinas and construction supply locations all store valuable merchandise and materials outside. Without protection, these assets are vulnerable to vandalism and theft. However, by providing precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras provide an early warning to security personnel so that they can intervene before a crime is committed. By helping to deter just one incident, the thermal solution delivers a clear ROI. New Market Opportunities Not only are there more thermal cameras in use today than ever before, but there are also more thermal sensors being integrated with other multi-sensor systems, driving the adoption of thermal in new markets. For large perimeter surveillance applications, thermal is repeatedly being integrated with radar and drones to expand situational awareness beyond the point of fixed cameras. Users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment In the commercial market, thermal imagers are combined with optical sensors, analytics and LED illuminators into one solution that integrates with central monitoring station platforms. By bringing these technologies together, users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment. The result is a lower number of false positives, reducing the total cost of ownership for the solution. These multi-sensor solutions also feature two-way audio capabilities, which enable remote security officers to act as “virtual guards” and speak to intruders in real-time to dissuade them from illegal activity. The introduction of solutions that integrate all these state-of-the-art technologies under one unit reduces the amount of capital and infrastructure needed for deployment. Consequently, more small businesses and alarm monitoring companies can implement advanced perimeter security technologies like thermal sensors, some for the very first time. Thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras Multi-Sensor Thermal Solutions Multi-sensor solutions featuring thermal are quickly gaining traction and opening the door to new business opportunities for the security channel. One of the primary reasons for the strong market interest in these systems is they enable integrators to increase their recurring monthly revenue (RMR). With intense price competition and eroding margins on CCTV equipment, integrators have to rely on RMR to grow their businesses. Offering remote video monitoring services and virtual guarding technologies is one of the best ways to do so.  Additionally, there is a clear demand for it. Central stations are continually looking for new technologies to offer their customers and businesses are interested in economical alternatives to physical guards. In conclusion, thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras that are a substantial segment of the outdoor security protection market. From nuclear power plants to construction locations, thermal technology is being implemented to secure sites around the globe.

Temperature, dusty and dirty conditions, along with limited access to networkingmakes remote location video surveillance extremely challenging Properly conducting video surveillance for any organization comes with several challenges. Not the least of which is how to architect a system that finds the right balance between quality, cost and bandwidth impact. This becomes even more challenging in non-traditional, demanding environments that are uncontrolled or highly dispersed, whether that’s an oil field, outdoor ATM machine, city intersection or a host of other “no-man’s land” environments where there is less control over the temperature, dusty and dirty conditions, and with limited access to bandwidth and IP networking.   A Primer On Video Surveillance For All Organizations First, before we move on to harsh environments, let’s look at how most organizations address video surveillance recording. Until recently, many companies have planned video surveillance systems around cameras that capture and stream video over a network to centralized general purpose IT servers and storage systems. That video can cause major network bottlenecks. For almost all organizations, network infrastructure planning does not take video surveillance network needs into account. The networks are typically designed to handle information related to the business such as emails and application servers, and it’s often prioritized according to the business’ function. For instance, on a network within a bank – transactional data will be made a higher priority than video surveillance data. The shared network bogs down video surveillance systems (or the other way around) and prohibits companies from running the kind of video surveillance quality that they can depend on.  Open, Intelligent Surveillance Appliances  A new approach, which remedies these issues and performs better than the use of general-purpose IT systems and a centralized recording is the use of open, intelligent surveillance appliances. These appliances are an all-in-one server, managed switch and storage that are typically installed in a distributed appliance architecture. In a distributed environment, appliances record closer to the edge of the surveillance network, near the cameras. Multiple IP cameras are connected directly to the appliance so video only streams over the network when it is retrieved on-demand through a video management system (VMS) or in the event of an incident. The appliance is open because it works with virtually any VMS depending on the needs.  An intelligent surveillance appliance approach and distributed architecture not only take the burden off the network by up to 95 percent, but also increase the reliability of the video by disassociating the surveillance video recording from conditions that can affect the health of the network such as congestion or network outages. Video continues to record when the network goes down, and there are fewer single points of failure. These appliances are typically built for the special demands of megapixel video and provide a smarter approach than streaming surveillance over networks.   Open, intelligent surveillance appliances perform better than general-purposeIT systems and a centralized recording Remote Area Video Surveillance Challenges The majority of today’s video surveillance systems were designed to operate in controlled corporate or campus environments. But that is not always where the most demanding surveillance needs are found. Many of today’s video surveillance systems are needed at the far reaches of the globe, at the perimeter of an organization, or the most inaccessible city locations that have dusty, dirty conditions. They must operate in extreme temperatures reaching as low as -4°F, up to 140°F; and have limited access to reliable network bandwidth.   Because they have no other choice, organizations and their integrators will go to additional efforts to protect mission-critical equipment and surveillance recording from the elements. In doing so, they add additional expense or force fit regular network video recorders (NVR) and general-purpose systems that were not designed for the job. Some get by procuring multi-thousand dollar enclosures to protect equipment that have fans and sensitive components, and in essence “brute” force solutions to meet the needs.   To add to the difficulty, network capabilities are even more limited with remote locations. The quality of video that can be transferred back from the surveillance point is limited by the network connection.  Due to these limitations, compromises are made including reducing resolution and frame rate, resulting in lost video and unusable evidence. When layers of video security are added to an infrastructure that was weak to begin with, it becomes more likely that fewer locations will meet the desired security requirements.  In controlled settings the need for distributed architecture is very strong. In uncontrolled environments, this need is only magnified due to lack of bandwidth and on-site oversight, and the presence of harsh temperatures and other conditions.   A Ruggedized, Intelligent Appliance Solution  Appliances are an ideal solution for uncontrolled, harsh environments where systems will be located in remote, difficult to access or perimeter places. In fact, there are now ruggedized surveillance appliances that have been “hardened” or in other words built in a certified, rugged enclosure that is able to withstand and excel in scenarios such as oil and gas fields, industrial locations, city surveillance, ATMs, border control and convenience stores. The appliance is enclosed in a chassis that meets UL and CE certifications ideal for recording in extreme conditions.    By nature, “no man’s land” is distributed. It is a place that is hard to reach and often underserved in terms of IP network and bandwidth. Therefore, a distributed appliance strategy for recording is perfectly suited and provides the ability for security managers to access video on demand rather than stream it over unreliable networks. Remote monitoring appliances are suitable for applications such as ATMsurveillance, border control and on cell phone towers But, it is important to understand that being “ruggedized” is only part of the story because these remote locations, present other interesting challenges: There are not staff nearby to manage the appliances, and there are cyber security threats when surveillance cameras are left unattended in an IP network. There needs to be intelligence built into the appliances for remote management. Health Monitoring: An intelligent surveillance appliance provides health monitoring of the entire ecosystem including the server, manage PoE switch, storage and cameras. This monitoring allows greater visibility and better control. It also includes proactive event management and notifications 24/7 via text message or other communication methods in the event of an issue such as an out of focus camera or a component that has been tampered with resulting in unusable video. Without health monitoring, video loss can occur without knowledge until it is too late.  Cyber Security: Another key issue is that of cyber security and hacking. Camera ports have become an entry point for creative hackers into an organization’s critical IP network. An intelligent surveillance appliance provides the ability to lock down camera ports on a switch with a single click to prevent hackers from gaining access to the corporate network. If a device with a different MAC ID address is plugged into the camera or access port, it cannot gain entry into the network and will be locked out. A web interface is used to manage the ports from a centralized location. How Rugged Video Surveillance Appliances Work In Extreme Conditions   Cell Phone Towers: Cell phone towers dot the landscape of remote and rural areas across many countries. Thieves have been known to steal valuable copper cable from the towers. By the time someone shows up, the culprits have already taken the supplies that they need.  Video surveillance is a critical solution to protect these assets.   Border Patrol: Another interesting scenario exists within an open border from one country to another. Many times thermal imagery video surveillance will be used at night to detect border crossings by measuring heat signatures. These programs are complex and often require processing power with significant network infrastructure investment. They also work best if they are installed closer to the source of the video recording. A rugged appliance provides a source of power and the ability to record on the spot. When filming within a closer proximity, once the cameras show heat images of figures coming over the horizon, on-the-ground teams are able to proactively go to the location before the suspects arrive. Special analytics can run directly off of the rugged device for border patrol applications.  ATMs: Although they’re not always located in extreme locations, ATMs are usually small boxes that include a camera to record the customer’s face for security measures. Normally, companies will only open the ATM to fill it up with money, change the ink or add more paper. They typically don’t open it to service a video surveillance recorder or to air out the recording unit. A ruggedized, fanless appliance works well because it’s small and reliable enough to live within the closed box and can withstand temperatures ranging from -4°F to 140°F.   What’s Next? The possibilities for rugged, intelligent surveillance appliances are endless. The high performance processing, highly tuned storage, intelligent features and network friendly architecture, all housed in a protected chassis, provide for a host of inventive uses from facial recognition to license plate recognition along highways. There are surveillance scenarios that we have not even conceived of yet but that will be better served with innovations in appliances built specifically for the job, no matter where in the world.

Starlight camera technology is redefining low-light surveillance to new levels Starlight cameras are the latest products security companies are adding to their product line-ups, each camera boasting the most comprehensive ability to make darkness visible. While low-light surveillance capabilities have been around on the market for some time, starlight camera technology is redefining low-light surveillance to new levels. Sourcesecurity.com spoke to manufacturers to discuss this technology and its applications in the security industry.  Stronger Sensors, Higher Image Quality In the second half of last year, Sony unveiled its Starvis sensor technology designed for industrial applications, including security surveillance. The sensors make high-quality images possible in very challenging light conditions by increasing light sensitivity up to 2000 mV or more per 1 µm2. Many security companies have wasted no time incorporating this technology into their starlight range.  China-based security camera manufacturer Qihan is one such company.  According to Ten Wu, CIS and European Regional Manager at Qihan, the company has worked closely with Sony, in addition to investing in research toward the development of its starlight range. Qihan is by no means the only Asian manufacturer with a starlight range. Tiandy and Korea-based CNB Technology also carry a comprehensive range of starlight cameras for customers to select from, while Nextchip has plans to incorporate starlight technology into its WDR range.   During challenging lightingconditions, Starlight cameras areequipped with the technology toslow down the cameras’ electronicshutter to capture more light Core to starlight camera technology is excellent light sensitivity, resulting in the ability to capture quality images under conditions with very little available light. Bosch’s starlight range, for example, includes a camera that promises to capture highly detailed 1080p monochrome images in low light levels of 0.000275 lux, and the ability to capture moving objects in high resolution with its high frame rate of 30 frames per second. Starlight cameras are equipped with the technology to slow down the cameras’ electronic shutter, when lighting conditions become challenging, to capture more light in order for the cameras to continue recording in color.   Hardware And Software Enhance Camera Performance According to Niko Xie, Overseas Sales Director at Tiandy, performance is based on both hardware and software, requiring “special sensor and special algorithms” to capture images in challenging light conditions.    A qualified starlight camera should be able to provide clearer image with more color detail than normal cameras. Cameras are capable of maintaining color images for longer and provide better night vision when settings are switched to black and white. “Our starlight products not only use starlight sensors, but also our algorithm to enhance image quality,” said Xie on Tiandy’s starlight range.   As security companies raise the bar on security camera performance, they did not forget to apply the latest technology to their starlight range. Hence, starlight cameras from most manufacturers promise simple installation procedures and are further equipped with video analytics to enhance performance and data management, such as noise reduction, intelligent video analysis and remote access. Bosch’s starlight range, for example, provides high definition color images in the dark through the combination of starlight technology and intelligent auto exposure, which enables the camera to automatically adapt to changing light conditions.   Starlight cameras’ clearer images and color detail make them ideal for low-lightenvironments such as bars and clubs Starlight Camera Applications For Low Light And No Light Environments Starlight cameras can be applied in a wide range of situations and environments. Several environments stand to benefit from the increased security starlight cameras could achieve.   Places with low light or no light, for example, in a bar or club can benefit from starlight technology. The illumination is weak and under such conditions, normal cameras would have already switched to black-and-white image capturing, but starlight cameras would continue to capture clear color images, explains Xie.  In addition, Wu adds that current surveillance systems could also be updated with starlight cameras to tremendously improve image quality at a similar cost compared to conventional cameras.   The security industry can definitely expect more to come on starlight cameras and their associated technology. 

The healthcare market is rife with opportunity for security systems integrators. Hospitals have a continuous need for security, to update their systems, to make repairs, says David Alessandrini, Vice President, Pasek Corp., a systems integrator. “It’s cyclical. Funding for large projects might span one to two years, and then they go into a maintenance mode. Departments are changing constantly, and they need us to maintain the equipment to make sure it’s operating to its full potential.” The experience of Pasek Corp. is typical of the opportunities available for security integrator companies in the healthcare vertical. A single large hospital system can supply a dependable ongoing source of revenue to integrator companies, says Alessandrini. Hospitals are “usually large enough to provide enough work for several people for an extended length of time.”  Healthcare customers in Pasek’s service area around Boston provide the potential for plenty of work. “We have four major hospitals, each with in excess of 250 card readers and 200 cameras, in the Boston area,” Alessandrini says. One appeal of the healthcare market for North Carolina Sound, an integrator covering central North Carolina, is the breadth of possible equipment they can sell into the healthcare market, including access control and video, of course, but also other technologies, such as audio-video systems in a dining room. North Carolina Sound has also installed sound masking in some areas with waiting rooms to protect private patient information from being overheard. Locking systems on pharmaceutical doors are another opportunity. Data capture form to appear here! IP based networked video systems A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network Among North Carolina Sound’s customers is Wayne Memorial Hospital, Goldsboro, N.C., which uses about 340 video cameras, with 80 percent or more of them converted to IP. The hospital is replacing analog with IP cameras as budget allows, building network infrastructure to support the system. The healthcare market tends to have a long sales cycle; in general, sales don’t happen overnight or even within a month or two. In fact, the period between an initial meeting with a healthcare facility and installation of a system could stretch to a year or longer. A lot happens during that time. Healthcare systems involve extensive planning, engineering, and meetings among various departments. Physical security systems that involve the information technology (IT) department, as do most systems today, can be especially complex. Installation of networked video systems based on Internet protocol (IP) requires deep and probing discussions with the IT team about how a system fits into the facility’s network infrastructure. A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network. Compatible with the network They must vet the technology to ensure the devices and solutions will be compatible with the network, and must sign off on technology choices. And even more important is determining if the security system will adhere to cybersecurity requirements of the facility. A complete solution that integrates nearly any system that lives on or uses a facility’s network is ultimately what the healthcare vertical is moving toward, says Jason Ouellette, General Manager – Enterprise Access Control & Video, Johnson Controls. Healthcare security professionals are early adopters of technology, implementing the best technology available”“We are hearing more and more from customers across industries that they want to be able to use their security systems and devices for more than just security: they want added value,” says Ouellette. Many want to use access control, video surveillance and other data sources to assess their business operations and/or workflows with the goal of improving efficiency. Upgrade cost-effectively Historically, three factors have prevented many organizations from moving forward with new technologies: lack of money, proprietary systems, and the need to “rip and replace” large parts of the installed systems, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. "Today, while funding is almost always a limiting factor at some level, the progression of industry standards and ‘open’ systems has made a big positive impact on the ability of organizations to upgrade cost-effectively,” he says. Despite any obstacles, healthcare customers generally welcome new innovations. “I would say healthcare security professionals in general are early adopters of technology and like to implement the best technology available,” says Jim Stankevich, Global Manager – Healthcare Security, Johnson Controls/Tyco Security Products. “For most, rapid implementation is limited by budgets and available funding." Read parts one and three of our healthcare mini series here and here.

Mayflex, the distributor of Converged IP Solutions, has installed Thermal Elevated Temperature Screening Solutions from Hikvision to improve the health and safety of their employees and visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The system works by automatically checking the forehead skin temperature in real time as employees pass by, maintaining a 2m gap in accordance with UK Government social distancing advice. If a person is over a normal temperature threshold, an audible and visual alarm is given and they will be asked to verify their body temperature using a medical thermometer. If in the future face masks become mandatory, the system can also verify if a visitor or employee is wearing a mask. Temperature screening at warehouse and office James Vian, Technical and Training Manager said “The temperature screening solution has been installed in our main reception as well as the warehouse entrances at both the Head Office and our Environ House warehouse.  The system includes the Hikvision Thermographic Bullet and Turret Cameras with the addition of the Hikvision Blackbody Calibrator that increases the accuracy of the readings from ±0.5oC to ±0.3oC.” Andy Cooper, Supply Chain Director at Mayflex said “It’s a non-contact means of quickly and consistently measuring the skin temperature of a person’s forehead, whilst maintaining social distancing in line with current Government guidelines.  In doing so, we can reduce the likelihood of someone with an elevated temperature coming into contact with other building occupants.  This also reduces the possibility of losing an entire shift for 14 days, ensuring that we can deliver on our customers’ needs even in these challenging times.” Andy concluded “It gives me confidence that we are doing everything we can to ensure the wellbeing of staff and protecting the business during the Coronavirus Pandemic.”

Haier Group, China’s renowned home appliance manufacturer, has built a new industrial park in Russia to cope with the growing demand in Europe. Covering a total area of about 124.9 hectares, the new site is located in Naberezhnye Chelny, an important industrial city in Tatarstan, Russia. Intelligent system With the gradual completion of its factories in the industrial park, Haier is looking for an intelligent system to realize multiple tasks within the whole industrial park. Firstly, the smart system should be able to prevent theft and timely detect people climbing over the perimeter fence. Secondly, the intelligent security system should provide comprehensive monitoring in the whole industrial park and inside the factory unit, which includes, monitoring of production line and employees’ smoking behavior during working hours at office areas, efficient employee attendance management, vehicle identification at the entrance and exit areas of the park, and the overall management of all the devices, data report outputs, and other facilities at the industrial park. Total smart solution The Dahua Russia team designed a complete smart solution incorporating AI cameras, perimeter cameras, ANPR system The Dahua Russia team designed a complete smart solution incorporating AI cameras, perimeter cameras, ANPR system, access control, time attendance system, face recognition barrier, DSS PRO platform and EVS storage for Haier’s industrial park. Notably, all of the devices were integrated in one central management platform, making it easier for operators to control and manage the system. In addition, the intelligent system also supports further device upgrade based on customer’s future plan for the next several years. Dahua 5MP WDR IR Bullet AI Network Cameras To help Haier solve the first problem, Dahua 5MP WDR IR Bullet AI Network Cameras were chosen to safeguard the perimeter of the Haier industrial park. Featuring active deterrence, the cameras are able to proactively warn intruders to leave before users take action. Once an intrusion is detected, a white light will turn on, accompanied by a buzzer to warn off the intruder. Additionally, its AI-powered perimeter protection function can greatly reduce false alarms caused by irrelevant objects. AI-powered perimeter protection The combination of advanced AI analytics and real-time alerts to desktop or mobile clients reduces system requirements and resources, thereby improving the efficiency of the surveillance system. The office areas and the interior of the washing machine factory are covered with Dahua 4MP WDR IR Dome Network Cameras, while public areas are monitored by 2MP 25x Starlight IR PTZ Network Cameras. As a member of Dahua Eco-savvy product family, the Dahua 4MP WDR IR Dome Network Cameras adopt upgraded H.265 encoding technology to provide starlight, Smart IR technology, as well as intelligent image analysis techniques. It saves bandwidth and storage, with energy-saving design to enhance monitoring performance of the system. Intelligent Video System analytic algorithm As for public areas, Dahua 2MP 25x Starlight IR PTZ Network Cameras have powerful optical zoom With built-in Intelligent Video System (IVS) analytic algorithm, these dome cameras also support intelligent functions to monitor a scene for tripwire violations, intrusion detection, and abandoned or missing objects. In the future, it can respond quickly and accurately to events in the monitored areas. As for public areas, Dahua 2MP 25x Starlight IR PTZ Network Cameras have powerful optical zoom and accurate pan/tilt/zoom performance that can provide a large monitoring range and rich details. Through the latest Starlight technology, the cameras can achieve excellent low-light performance. In addition, these cameras are equipped with smooth control, high quality image and good protection, which meet the requirements of most industrial parks. Dahua face recognition barriers Dahua face recognition barriers were deployed at the entrance of the Haier industrial park and its office building, allowing quick and touchless passage of registered Haier employees without using employee cards or other identification documents. The system is based on a deep learning algorithm powered by AI, which compares facial images captured by the camera with those stored in the library to verify a person’s identity and grant permission. Access will be denied for unregistered people. 2 Megapixel Full HD AI Access ANPR cameras The industrial park’s entrance and exit use 2 Megapixel Full HD AI Access ANPR cameras to identify entering and exiting vehicles. Boasting a capture rate of over 99%, the cameras can automatically recognize the number plate of a vehicle in low speed less than 40 kmph, and capture vehicle data such as vehicle direction, vehicle size and vehicle color detection (in daytime) based on deep learning algorithm. Aside from these capabilities, the cameras can also control the barrier according to the whitelist set by users and let registered vehicles pass without stopping. Dahua DSS PRO management platform The Dahua DSS PRO management platform integrates all cameras and the stated devices At the management center, all the information collected by font-end cameras will be transferred to a 16-HDD Enterprise Video Storage. With Seagate HDD, the device offers unparalleled capacity performance for users to store massive videos and obtain evidence when needed. The Dahua DSS PRO management platform integrates all cameras and the aforementioned devices, allowing operators to easily control and manage the system. Smart industrial park solution Dahua Technology’s smart industrial park solution has assisted Haier in creating a modern intelligent industrial park in Russia. The up-to-date Dahua AI equipment provides Haier a long-term smart security system with upgraded security level and enhanced management efficiency. “The traditional personnel management system requires manual registering of employee information and cards to enter and exit office areas, which is inefficient and difficult to manage, and often high in cost,” said Zhao Shengbo, Regional Director of Dahua CIS. Upgrading access verification system Zhao adds, “Upgrading the access verification system is crucial for modern companies like Haier in order to increase the security level of its industrial park and office building. We look forward to our future cooperation.” “During the requirement discussion, solution design, and engineering survey, Dahua shows professionalism and excellent communication skills. Haier is satisfied with the first step cooperation and looking forward to the second step of the project,” said Liu Wei, Overseas Regional Project Manager of Haier Group.

STANLEY Security, one of the UK’s renowned security providers, has completed a major CCTV installation for Bridgnorth Aluminum Limited, the UK's only manufacturer of aluminum flat rolled products. At 27 hectares, Bridgnorth Aluminum’s site in Bridgnorth, Shropshire is extensive. It is home to a casthouse, rolling mill, two litho centers, a multi-slitting line and finishing lines. IP CCTV system The IP CCTV system is critical to our business in terms of health and safety of our employees and site security" The company had previously been using three separate CCTV systems, each covering different parts of this large site, one of which was over 15 years old, had very poor image quality and was starting to show signs of failure. Furthermore, none of the CCTV systems had any level of redundancy, so if one failed access to those particular cameras were lost, along with any recorded footage.  Steve Denton, IT Manager at Bridgnorth Aluminum, explains the decision to upgrade, stating “We needed to consolidate everything into one single CCTV system, including all of the cameras from the other three systems, and we needed to add a level of redundancy. The IP CCTV system is critical to our business in terms of health and safety of our employees and site security.” IP video surveillance Following detailed discussions with Bridgnorth Aluminum, STANLEY Security designed a new site wide IP based CCTV system, covering external areas and the perimeter of the site, along with internal areas including key indoor production spaces.  The system takes advantage of Bridgnorth Aluminum’s existing IP network which is deployed in most areas of the site, negating the need to install COAX cable. Opting for an IP-based CCTV system has also enabled Bridgnorth Aluminum to make use of newer technology with better quality images, which was the key. STANLEY 2MP bullet cameras and dome cameras The cameras feed is stored in two Milestone Husky M500 Advanced Network Video Recording hardware platforms The new IP CCTV system features STANLEY 2MP bullet cameras and dome cameras, including 360⁰ dome models. The cameras feed is stored in two Milestone Husky M500 Advanced Network Video Recording hardware platforms; one of which is used in case of redundancy.  Bridgnorth Aluminum is pleased with the new CCTV system as Steve Denton comments, “The image quality of the new system is streets ahead of the old system. The area of coverage is also far greater thanks to the addition of 180-degree wide angle and 360-degree cameras. The software is very easy to use and has some very useful features to aid with playback of recorded footage. The software has already helped us to retrieve footage that we would have had little chance of retrieving before.” Enhanced site security STANLEY Security has been working with Bridgnorth Aluminum since 2017 when it took over the support of the company’s existing CCTV systems. “The transition period had proved successful” states Steve, commenting on their decision to appoint STANLEY Security for this project. He adds, “The service from STANLEY has been excellent, our account manager Amber is one of a kind and always goes above and beyond for us to ensure that we receive the best service possible.”

Avigilon Corporation (“Avigilon”), a Motorola Solutions company, announced it was selected to help protect the security of Independent Express Cargo Ltd. (“Independent Express Cargo”) in Dublin, Ireland. Independent Express Cargo is one of Ireland’s largest pallet delivery operators, serving as a national transport network hub and full third-party logistics supplier with 25 depots across the country and over 1,000 active clients. Avigilon Control Center VMS To improve security throughout its Dublin site, which consists of 180,000 square feet of warehouses on a nine-acre site, Independent Express Cargo worked with integrator Usee.ie to install a complete Avigilon security solution. The new system features Avigilon Control Center (ACC) video management software, which provides security operators with a more efficient way to manage video from a central location. ACC software also includes advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and video analytics capabilities ACC software also includes advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and video analytics capabilities, including Avigilon Appearance Search and Unusual Motion Detection technologies. Additionally, a combination of Avigilon cameras — including the H4 Pro, the H4 Multi-sensor and the H4A Bullet with self-learning video analytics — were deployed to achieve optimal coverage while allowing security operators to leverage the benefits of real-time analytics. Incorporating advanced AI technologies By implementing a complete Avigilon security solution that leverages advanced AI technologies, Independent Express Cargo has seen an increase in operational efficiencies and improved security of its sites, assets and resources.       “With complete security solutions from Avigilon, we have been able to increase the speed at which we can detect events across our sites,” said Owen Cooke, director of Independent Express Cargo. “In the fast-paced environment of transportation logistics, this has dramatically increased efficiencies so that we can continue to focus on our number-one priority: our customers.” Intelligent video security system “Avigilon AI and analytics allow our customers to improve operations while maintaining system flexibility and ease of use,” said Bernard Pender, chief executive officer of Usee.ie. “Choosing Avigilon helps us meet our client’s goal of deploying a highly intelligent and user-friendly video security system.”

A multi-division and multi-location conglomerate in Kutch (Gujarat, India), engaged in manufacturing, trading, exporting and supplying a finest assortment of Roofing Accessories Roofing Sheets, Metal Coils, Roofing Accessories, Metal Roofing Sheets, Coated Roofing Sheets and Tiled Sheets for Roofing has trusted Matrix with providing top grade security solutions for its site. Matrix IR bullet cameras and VMS VMS Software with Inbuilt Weighbridge Application Module: SATATYA SAMAS PLT IPC Channel Wise ANPR/LPR License (ANPR1) Cameras installed at the site: 2 MP Varifocal IR Bullet Camera with 2.8-12 mm Lens- SATATYA CIBR20VL12CWS 2 MP Fixed Lens IR Bullet Camera with 3.6 mm Lens- SATATYA CIBR20FL36CWS The company was using conventional Weighbridge system that performed basic functionalities. This traditional system had certain limitations, such as Data spoofing due to manual system Lack of centralized solution for multiple branches Dependency on more than one system Lack of evidence for auditing purpose Matrix Weighbridge integration solution Looking at all the challenges that the company was facing, Matrix offered an optimized solution with Weighbridge Integration. Matrix Weighbridge Integration solution provides the following functionalities: Vehicle Number Snapshot (ANPR) Driver Snapshot (Evidence) Material Snapshot (Auditing) Weighbridge Snapshot (Avoid Data Spoofing) Safeguard Evidence Bookmark Video Recordings Print Evidence Record Periodic Report Generation Benefits Client will be able to track in-bound and out-bound material movement by capturing the details of respective material weight. Enables the client to make easy comparison of weights between supplying plant and receiving plant with the help of captured screenshots. Record weight of the material and then use the data to post good’s receipts, production bookings and dispatch documents, etc. Limits Weighbridge Vendor dependency by providing interoperability without depending much on other APIs.

Pengsheng Industrial Park is the first investment project by a Chinese private enterprise in Uzbekistan that has been acknowledged and ratified by the governments of the two countries. Located in Uzbekistan's Sirdaryo state, the Pengsheng Industrial Park is the biggest non-energy cooperation project between China and the Central Asian country. At present, there are over 10 workshops covering various fields with a total number of more than 1,500 employees. As a model project of China-Uzbekistan cooperation, it has contributed to a large number of job opportunities and high output value for local economic development. High-End monitoring system The expansion of the production scale of the park brought inconvenience to management and the current simple front-end camera plus back-end storage video surveillance system cannot meet the growing production management and modern monitoring needs any more. Dahua provided the park with a complete, high-end monitoring system that contain over 500 HD cameras, 100 IP camerasDahua provided the park with a customized complete, high-end monitoring system that contain over 500 HD cameras, 100 IP cameras, central management, central storage, third-party contact as well as display and control system all around factory, fence, outdoor and indoor areas to protect the whole park. To better secure the access between the network of video surveillance system, the data is gathered from front-end devices by PON transmission to establish looped network for video surveillance and to ensure reliability. Advanced technology solutions This project is the first general contracted project with great significance in Uzbekistan. Dahua is not only the supplier of the equipment, but also responsible for the whole project life cycle including construction, delivery, system documentation, technical support, operation training and long-term maintenance. The solutions have effectively reduced the difficulty during production process, which greatly improved the management efficiency for customers. In the future, Dahua will continue to provide more advanced technology solutions such as face recognition, personnel and vehicle management IT systems, industrial machine vision, etc. for the Peng Sheng industrial Park.

The high cost of thermal imaging cameras historically made their use more likely in specialized law enforcement and military applications. However, lower pricing of thermal imaging technologies has opened up a new and expanding market for thermal cameras in the mainstream. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the new opportunities for thermal cameras in mainstream physical security?