Industrial surveillance

Moxa is helping meet Industry 4.0's demand for heightened visibility by launching the new NPort IAW5000A-6I/O, an enterprise-scale, out-of-the-box solution that conveniently integrates a RS-232/422/485 serial device server, a Wi-Fi client/bridge, and multiple digital I/O's into a single compact device. Deploying the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O empowers plant managers to wirelessly connect machinery to an IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n network for the collection, remote monitoring, and analyzing of real-time visual insights on machine performance to ensure optimal manufacturing performance. "Today's manufacturers are under pressure to increase the productivity of every machine on the plant floor," said Paul Wacker, Product Marketing Manager for Device Connectivity. "Our new NPort provides a drop-in solution connecting existing equipment via Wi-Fi to gain valuable new insights about what is going on in each machine in real-time and how it is impacting productivity." Versatile Advantages The NPort IAW5000A-6I/O delivers a significant advantage through its versatility. Any RS-232/422/485 serial or Ethernet device in the field can be linked to a wireless device. In addition, its multiple digital I/O's make the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O ideal for industrial data acquisition where dividends are paid in heightened efficiency, reduced production downtime, and lower overall costs. Also, because it supports baudrates between 50 and 921.6 kbps, the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O ensures reliable connectivity to the widest range of devices. "Using the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O, however, CNC machines can be actively monitored to acquire data via Ethernet and/or wireless communications" Flexible Application Opportunities To underscore the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O's versatility, Wacker gave the example of legacy serial CNC machines. These older, capital-extensive machines are rarely connected to a plant's network, leaving plant managers in the dark as to production status. Using the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O, however, CNC machines can be actively monitored to acquire data via Ethernet and/or wireless communications. Wacker also provided the example of installing the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O as a value-added service in a large parking lot. Detectors built into the back of individual parking spaces could be wirelessly read by the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O to let the head office know which parking spaces are taken and which are open. Available spaces can be displayed on a screen at parking lot entrances to assist drivers and improve customer satisfaction. Improve Equipment Effectiveness Overall Equipment Effectiveness or "OEE" is a key operational metric that helps plant managers monitor the performance of particular machines or production lines. Despite the numerous gains realized through Industry 4.0 technology, OEE remains stagnant at 60 percent or less for the majority of global manufacturers. The NPort IAW5000A-6I/O can help boost underperforming OEE by providing real-time visibility into machine status, allowing a plant manager to accurately adjust the production schedule for improved optimization and decreased overhead costs. Integrated Critical Functions Gone are the days of spending the time to configure three different devices, going back and forth between different vendors for technical support, and buying different spare parts to maintain the different devices. With the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O, all three critical functions -- RS-232/422/485 serial device server, Wi-Fi client/bridge and digital I/O -- are integrated so that installation, troubleshooting and maintenance costs are dramatically reduced when compared to using two or three separate devices. "Moxa's integrated 3-in-1 solution also decreases design time, both for installation and maintenance" Additionally, the space-saving 3-in-1 design makes the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O ideal for refurbishment of older machinery, which typically have space limitations, especially when a variety of machines have already been installed. Moxa's integrated 3-in-1 solution also decreases design time, both for installation and maintenance, when compared to implementing after-market solutions from multiple suppliers. Protected From Power Surges A major threat thwarted by the NPort IAW5000A-6I/O is damage from power surges. Devices installed in industrial environments experience a high risk of surge due to electromagnetic pulses produced from motors switching on and off. The NPort IAW5000A-6I/O Series offers 4 kV surge protection for serial lines to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes and to damp out electrical noise. Key features Link any RS-232/422/485 serial or Ethernet device to an Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n network Serial device server with Virtual COM-port or TCP/UDP access Integrated digital I/O: 4 in and 2 out Redundant dual DC power inputs and support for relay output 4 kV serial surge protection Secure data access with WPA2 encryption with RADIUS authentication microSD card slot for configuration backup Wireless Client/Bridge function for flexible integration

Wren enclosures are another important option Arecont Vision customers can now employ with confidence Arecont Vision, a provider of IP-based megapixel camera technology, announced that Wren Solutions, a developer of innovative camera housings and accessories, has joined the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program. Multiple Arecont Vision cameras are certified with Wren Solution housings. Stainless-Steel Camera Housings “We are excited to further develop our partnership with Arecont Vision,” said Andrew Wren, President of Wren Solutions. “Our business has been built on understanding customer needs and finding unique ways to solve their problems with our innovative products. This partnership will allow Arecont and Wren to work together to bring new solutions to the market—with our stainless-steel housings serving as a great example of both companies working together to serve our customers.” Wren Solutions has a 30-year history of developing products that solve specific problems for a variety of vertical markets, including industrial, transportation, marine, food processing, retail, banking, and education. With in-house design teams and on-site fabrication capabilities, Wren takes market feedback from idea to product in a short time. Multi-Sensor Megapixel Camera Technology Arecont Vision is a provider of single- and multi-sensor megapixel camera technology, designed and manufactured in the USA. Since introducing the industry’s first megapixel cameras in 2004 and first multi-sensor cameras in 2006, Arecont Vision cameras have been customer proven around the world for use day or night and in and outdoors, with high performance and outstanding reliability. Wren enclosures are another important option Arecont Vision customers can now employ with confidence. “We are very pleased to have Wren solutions as part of the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program,” said Jason Schimpf, Director of Marketing Programs, Arecont Vision. “The Wren stainless steel dome enclosures enable our customers to take full advantage of excellent image quality delivered by Arecont Vision cameras in harsh areas like extreme moisture or corrosive environments. Customers can feel confident in the solution when they pick Arecont Vision cameras that are certified with Wren’s housings.” Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program Through the Arecont Vision Technology Partner Program, sales, development, and support contacts are established between the two companies to better engage with end user customers and integrators, integrate new features and technology, and quickly resolve any customer support issues. A growing number of customers are already benefiting from integrated Arecont Vision and Wren Solutions.

Tamron, develops distinguished high-resolution fixed-focal lenses that address customers' critical requirements in machine vision Tamron, an integrated optics manufacturer and provider of security/surveillance equipment industry, announces the market launch of a series of fixed-focal lenses for machine vision use that support full 5-mega-pixel resolution for 1/1.2" imagers in compact bodies: Model: M112FM12/M112FM16/M112FM25. Compact Lens Size Mega-pixel cameras used for machine-vision applications including production equipment, substrate mounting equipment, various test equipment, and various engineering machines migrate toward larger-size imagers and higher resolution. A variety of lenses are available in the market to fit such applications. However, a camera-and-lens combination needs to be optimized for the individual installation condition. Some specific production equipment, substrate inspection equipment, and industrial-use printers mandate lenses that can be installed in a limited space, and ensure high resolution and high contrast imaging in a close-shooting distance. Tamron's machine-vision mega-pixel lens portfolio currently offers lenses for 1.1" imagers (4 models in M111FM series), 1/1.8" imagers (6 models in M118FM series), and 2/3" imagers (7 models in M23FM series, 3 models in 23FM series). With the addition of new compact lenses for 1/1.2" imagers (M112FM series), the portfolio offers the widest selection of high-resolution lenses that address customers' particular needs. Mega-pixel cameras used for machine-vision applications migrate toward larger-size imagers and higher resolution Tamron, as an integrated lens manufacturer, develops distinguished high-resolution fixed-focal lenses that address customers' critical requirements in machine vision, particularly for high optical performance that assures high-fidelity over the whole image, and advanced user utility. Key Features: 1. Unrivalled High Contrast And High Resolution In The Industry. The new models are compatible with both 5.86μm pixel-pitch 1/1.2" imagers and 3.45μm pixel-pitch 2/3" imagers, and assure an equivalent resolution of full 5 mega-pixels, an industry-leading resolution and contrast in φ29mm machine-vision lenses. Tamron's proprietary optical design offers equal first-class performance in all different focal lengths of the models. 2. Advanced Coating Technology And State-Of-The-Art Optical Design Tamron's state-of-the-art optics and advanced coating technologies assure distinguished optical performance, particularly in contrast and resolution, and superb optical transmissivity for crisp and clear images. 3. High-Quality Imaging In A Close-Shooting Distance The new lenses assure high-quality imaging in frequently-used close-shooting distances. 4. Rigid Inspection On Quality Critical performance in resolution is thoroughly examined from the center to the periphery of images, assuring high-contrast and high-resolution, devoid of unbalanced blurring, throughout the entire lens view. 5. Improved Maneuverability And User Utility Rotational torque is increased to improve maneuverability for focusing and iris adjustment. Lock-screw positions are increased to four instead of the three of the former models, assisting easier installation for users. 6. Cosmetic Design Of Rugged Look A metal barrel is employed to improve durability and robustness against vibration, giving a cool and rugged exterior look. 7. A Commonly-Used Setscrew Is Included As A Standard Accessory A lock-screw used in previous models is replaced with an embedding-type setscrew, making the lens barrel free of a screw-head to enable installation in a compact space.

The partnership between Hanwha Techwin, ImmerVision is expected to enhance compatibility with various VMS across vertical markets Hanwha Techwin, (formerly Samsung Techwin), the video surveillance leader with pioneering optical design, manufacturing and image-processing technologies, signed a global technology partnership agreement on August 30th with ImmerVision, the inventor of the 360-degree panomorph lens and worldwide expert in immersive optical technology. ImmerVision is a company based in Montreal, Canada. With this partnership, all Wisenet 360° cameras released in the near future will be certified ImmerVision Enables, including the models already released by Hanwha Techwin. This is expected to enhance compatibility greatly with a number of VMSs with ImmerVision Enables. Panoramic Surveillance With High-Quality Image And Video In addition, the ImmerVision Enables certified Wisenet 360° cameras from Hanwha Techwin not only enables panoramic surveillance of crisp images with no degradation in resolution or distortion but also provides highly detailed and crystal clear images and videos with a flawless field of view from edge to edge without any blind spots utilizing Hanwha Techwin ’s high megapixel optical lens. Hanwha Techwin is expected to leverage these professional products using ImmerVision's innovative and immersive viewing functionality, using the existing number of solutions targeting various vertical markets in city surveillance, airports, seaports, industrial areas, etc. Integration Of Video Surveillance Products And Solutions "Our cutting-edge video surveillance products and solutions using our 360° optical technology and innovative proprietary chipset, combined with ImmerVision's Enables software technology, will generate an incredible level of synergy to showcase new value to the video surveillance market." said David Kim, SVP Global Sales & Marketing from Hanwha Techwin. “We are delighted to partner with Hanwha Techwin, an expert manufacturers of high quality video surveillance products and solutions.” said Pascale Nini, President & CEO from ImmerVision. “This partnership ensures that Hanwha Techwin customers can benefit from certified ImmerVision Enables technology. In addition, we are excited by the integration of our technology inside their future leading edge 360° products.” Through this global partnership, Hanwha Techwin will create new business opportunities with various services/solutions that combine the two companies' technology and continue to collaborate actively for this purpose. Save

Value Imaging solutions work wherever goods are transported from point A to point B Security Essen, Germany is a great venue to present new products, features, and technical highlights. The industry's most important trade fair worldwide is a natural fit in this respect. However, Geutebrück has a different focus: the benefits for the customer. In addition to conventional aspects of security, this also includes economic advantages for users.These two core benefits are so important to Geutebrück that the company has decided to expand its existing video security business area with a second field: ValueImaging. Value Imaging"In terms of conventional video security, companies invest to secure an area or a specific piece of property. Value Imaging is an additional benefit that results from our solutions. If you visualize the interfaces in your processes, you can discover enormous potential. Hidden value becomes visible and, most importantly, it can also be utilized!" explain Katharina Geutebrück and Christoph Hoffmann, Managing Directors of Geutebrück. Application AreasValue Imaging works wherever goods are transported from A to B, from the baggage carousel at the airport to order picking in industrial companies and in conventional logistics processes of all kinds. The core of this solution is a combination of scanned data and video images. Cameras record the condition of the goods at all times and in detail, but it is their combination with scanned data that first enables efficient search procedures. This video information is used for confirmation when communicating with customers and helping to clarify irregularities and it is also used for analysis and optimization of processes."In our experience, shorter loading times, improved returned goods monitoring, and detection of incorrect loading make Value Imaging an investment that pays for itself in a few months," continue the two directors.Visit Geutebrück at Security Essen, booth 2C38 to learn more. Save Save

BriefCam’s Video Synopsis tool tags each incident, allowing operators to isolate individual, relevant incidents for viewing, from a single click Digifort has partnered with BriefCam to offer operators exceptional forensic search and review functionality, from within its open platform video management software (VMS) platform. “Briefcam is a powerful video search tool, which integrates with Digifort’s intelligent data processing to make surveillance systems far more effective,” explains Francois Levy, Digifort Business Development Director for EMEA. “BriefCam enables operators to locate specific incidents quickly using a range of simply applied search criteria.” Quick Reviewing Of Incidents Video data from Digifort is uploaded from each camera channel. BriefCam’s intelligent algorithms use metadata to extrapolate objects and activity from within each camera video stream. This is done using search criteria such as object size, color, direction, dwell and speed. Each incident is tagged, allowing operators to isolate individual, relevant incidents for viewing, from a single click BriefCam’s Video Synopsis tool takes all the video data that matches the search criteria, from many surveillance hours, and overlays it onto a new video lasting just a few minutes. Each incident is tagged, allowing operators to isolate individual, relevant incidents for viewing, from a single click. For example, a search of all yellow cars traveling on a highway between 13:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs would show all occurrences overlaid onto just a few minutes of video. The operator can quickly identify the specific car of interest and by clicking it, instantly view the full video of its movement. Enhanced VMS Search And Integration Features Francois stated, “Adding BriefCam to any Digifort VMS system allows users to identify unseen and unreported events; significantly reduce data searching times by using specific object features; process evidence very quickly; reduce operator search times and costs and export and share data effectively.” Applications where BriefCam has experienced great success already include transport infrastructures, airports, stations, retail outlets, town centers, car parks, warehouses, industrial and commercial sites. BriefCam has developed its technology partnership with Digifort to allow powerful integration opportunities with other site security and management tools, such as fire alarms, intruder, access control and building management systems. Digifort is excited to work with BriefCam and offer customers enhanced search features alongside its high specification intelligent VMS solutions. An unlimited number of secure client PCs, tablets and smartphones can access and view the Digifort system.

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 FERC standard CIP-014-1 became effective, according to the Federal Register, on January 26, 2015 The electric power industry works with several federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Department of Energy (DOE) to improve sector-wide resilience for cyber threats. The industry also collaborates with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies to strengthen its cyber security capabilities. Are the standards anywhere close enough to actually be of service? We shall soon see because last November CIP-014-1 was approved. It is the Physical Security Reliability Standard, developed by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation and approved by the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. In December, the House of Representatives approved unanimously H.R. 3410, the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act (CIPA). This is the first time in four years that Congress has acted to begin to protect the nation’s electrical grid, and comes on the heels of CIP-014-1’s approval.   Aim of the new bill The bill enjoys strong bipartisan support, but it remains to be seen whether it will become law. It has been read in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Its purpose is to see that DHS: Include in national planning scenarios the threat of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) which would entail the education of the owners and operators of critical infrastructure, as well as emergency planners and emergency responders at all levels of government of the threat of EMP events; Engage in research and development aimed at mitigating the consequences of naturally occurring or man-caused EMP events; Produce a comprehensive plan to protect and prepare the critical infrastructure of the American homeland against EMP events. FERC’s standard CIP-014-1, has six requirements, including Utilities must devise physical security plans for each of their respective transmission stations, transmission substations, and their primary control center (one of the CIP-014-1 requirements) Performing risk assessments periodically to identify weak transmission stations and substations; The transmission owner must modify trouble spots accordingly and implement procedures for protecting sensitive or confidential information; Transmission owners must let operators know there are issues so they can address them. Owners and transmission operators must conduct an evaluation of the potential threats and vulnerabilities of a physical attack on each of its respective transmission stations, transmission substations, and primary control centers identified as critical under the first requirement; Utilities must devise physical security plans for each of their respective transmission stations, transmission substations, and their primary control center; Finally, they must have an unaffiliated third party with appropriate experience review its evaluation and security plan and then respond to the recommendations. However, Todd Borandi, an industry veteran and information security architect, sees these regulations as a day late and a dollar short. He credits hackers for today’s push for regulations “because several groups made it a public point to demonstrate how easy it is to access sensitive systems and steal data, so the outcry from the private, public and even the government demanded regulations causing this whole cycle to start all over again.” The FERC standard became effective, according to the Federal Register, on January 26, 2015. It remains to be seen whether or not the boxes get checked in lieu of an improvement in physical security. Wind - The savior? Ironically, what might be of more help is a very simple solution: wind. LogRhythm’s Greg Foss says “Wind could be the savior” because the Department of Energy is working on outputting windmill energy into batteries. Foss is senior security research engineer for Boulder, Colo.-based LogRhythm, a security intelligence firm. One thing is to upgrade equipment, but as we’ve discovered that demands a huge money outlay, and as Foss says, “Right now, utilities have no real need to do this even though there have been 97 attacks against the grid so far this year.” Foss’ company creates honeypots, which are traps for hackers. “Once they get in,” he says, “we can track them and learn.” He says that a so-called con pot is under development. It would simulate SCADA by running, for example, a gas main, a utility box or a water-heating system, which is a prime target for hackers who wish to fudge temperature readings and make things look cooler than they really are.  His best advice is “Hire the right people, train them well and give them the tools to build solutions. Security isn’t that easy to learn and they have to have the tools to succeed.” His company’s mantra is “not if, when,” and those words should resound loudly at all utility firms.

A manufacturing giant in Maharashtra has the distinct mark of making India’s 1st Diesel Engine and Iron Mold Ploughs. The company’s legacy dates to 1922. This company is the reason behind a new wave of industrialization in some of the towns in Maharashtra while preserving their rich heritage. Wide Area Monitoring The company is spread across a wide area, employing more than three thousand people. Being an established and trusted brand, maintaining quality is crucial and therefore, every area needs to be under surveillance. For this reason, cameras producing high resolution images and covering a greater area for monitoring was the primary requirement. The company is divided into various branches that are located at various places in Satara, Maharashtra. This gave rise to the need for a centralized solution at a centralized location from where all other sites can be monitored at a time. Matrix IP Bullet And Dome Cameras To cover the large monitoring area, Matrix provided IP bullet and dome cameras that have greater field of view when compared to other brands. According to the requirement, various cameras were installed at different locations such as reception area, canteen, security area, entrance, production area, etc. These cameras also provide exceptional low light images that aid in night time surveillance and provide enhanced security. For storing the streamed videos, Matrix offered network video recorders. These NVRs have features such as adaptive recording which aids in storing more data in a defined space. Moreover, it has intelligent video analytics such as intrusion detection and motion detection which were also applied. Instant notifications and alerts ensured real-time security of the premises.

With a heritage stretching back over 500 years, Gebrüder Weiss is one of Europe’s oldest transport and logistics companies. Based in Vorarlberg, Austria and with more than 7,000 employees in 150 locations around the world, it is also one of the largest. Sony Video Security In Logistics Centers Customers of all sizes trust Gebrüder Weiss to ship their consignments quickly, safely and undamaged to their destination Customers of all sizes trust Gebrüder Weiss to ship their consignments quickly, safely and undamaged to their destination. To guarantee this and make the entire logistics chain traceable, the service provider relies on comprehensive video surveillance in its logistics centers, which is regularly updated to reflect the latest state of the art. Gebrüder Weiss has now expanded its existing monitoring solution at the company’s largest distribution center in Maria Lanzendorf near Vienna that previously featured almost 500 Sony cameras and Milestone's video management software (VMS). This has been supplemented with the addition of 33 Sony SNC-VM772R 4K video security cameras. Sony 4K Cameras The upgrade ensures greater security, comprehensive package tracking and the ability to track any damage. The new Sony 4K cameras are used mainly to monitor reloading from larger trailers into smaller trucks. Their field of view covers the actual transfer area as well as the interior of the trailers and conveyor belts. The SNC-VM772R features a large CMOS sensor with 4K resolution that combines excellent image quality and large depth of field, even in difficult lighting conditions. The camera’s robust design with integrated image stabilization ensures smooth, clear video images despite vibration, dust and exhaust fumes from passing trucks. Video Monitoring The new 4K cameras can track several objects simultaneously with either VGA or Full HD resolution The cameras’ installation ensures that the entire transshipment area is monitored at all times, with no blind spots caused by vehicles or pallets. In addition, the new 4K cameras can track several objects simultaneously with either VGA or Full HD resolution. The SNC-VM772R's 20-megapixel image sensor also enables capture of high-resolution Evidence Shots – still images with greater than 4K resolution that allow even the smallest details to be viewed clearly. For Gebrüder Weiss, the Sony solution is thus an outstanding alternative to multiple PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) cameras or multi-sensor systems. Installation and integration into the existing environment were carried out by local Sony partner ÖWD Österreichischer Wachdienst Security & Services. With 2,800 employees, ÖWD is one of the largest security companies in Austria and maintains 24/7 technical teams in all Austrian states. "Since it opened in 2006 we have been using Sony cameras at our terminal in Maria Lanzendorf, which is our largest in the world" says Werner Drnec, Operations Manager at Gebrüder Weiss, Maria Lanzendorf. "Both the image quality and reliability – with failure rates close to zero – have always exceeded our expectations, and even in the current project they proved themselves in a direct comparison. Our confidence in the Sony brand plus easy, seamless integration into our existing environment added to this."

With the value of scrap metal only heading in one direction recently, dealers are having to turn to ever more advanced security solutions to combat theft and break ins. Security specialist Trigion is now providing high-tech solutions at a major Kent scrap yard in the UK, including the use of thermal cameras and a ‘virtual perimeter’ system. On a site such as a scrap metal yard, there can be a lot of material on view, and it is not always easy to determine exactly what is happening on a standard CCTV camera. Simplifying Intrusion Detection Thermal cameras make it clear where a heat source is and when it moves. They can also display an electronic trail showing where motion has taken place; making detection much easier. In addition, by setting a virtual perimeter on screen, specific areas can be monitored more closely, and an alarm triggered if someone enters it. This perimeter can be altered remotely to meet changing situations, such as the arrival of a greater quantity of metal.With scrap metal prices consistently rising over the past year or two, dealers are increasingly being targeted by unscrupulous elements" Neil Ricketts, Security & Technical Services Director at Trigion, said: “With scrap metal prices consistently rising over the past year or two, dealers are increasingly being targeted by unscrupulous elements intending to cash in. We work with our customers to design the best solution for their individual needs. We’re not tied to any supplier or manufacturer, so can ensure the customer gets what they really need." "In the case of the scrapyard, the thermal imaging gives a much clearer picture of the situation, and staff at our remote monitoring station can ensure the site is secure at all times.”

Captis Intelligence, a provider of I-4 crime solutions (intelligence, information, investigation, identification), has announced the addition of the pharmacy retailer Rite Aid as a client. The announcement comes in the wake of a major acceleration in growth for Captis Intelligence, which recently opened offices in London and Singapore to support its growing international customer base. Captis will provide Rite Aid with asset protection support service from its corporate office located in Los Angeles. I-4 Platform Powered Asset Protection “Working with Captis Intelligence has enhanced our asset protection capabilities and provides us with extremely valuable information,” said Robert Oberosler, group vice president of asset protection at Rite Aid. “We are pleased not only with the results we’ve achieved since we began using the company’s platform, but also with the team’s commitment to delivering a high level of customer service.”Working with Captis Intelligence has enhanced our asset protection capabilities and provides us with extremely valuable information,” Captis Intelligence developed its I-4 solution over the course of three years, with the goal of unifying powerful asset protection systems within an easy-to-use interface, categorized into four groups: Intelligence, information, investigation, and identification. Multiple industry-first solutions highlight the I-4 platform, including solveacrime.com, the first mass crowd-sourcing system used to identify unknown criminals in surveillance videos or pictures. Retail Asset Protection “As we look to the future, one of the key elements of our growth strategy is to expand our services to the retail asset protection segment,” said Dario Brebric, president of Captis Intelligence. “We are excited to add Rite Aid, a thought leader in the asset protection and loss prevention industry to our client roster, as part of this expansion.”

Hikvision worked with farm management solutions provider SKOV to bring the art of weighing pigs into the 21st Century, with the help of mini-dome cameras and a bespoke VMS system. The pig is one of the most populous large mammals in the world, with an estimated 986.6 million pigs at any one time. This also means, of course, that piggeries are big business, as pork is the most commonly meat consumed worldwide. Part of managing a piggery is to ensure that each pig is able to grow to its full potential. Traditional And Time-Consuming Methods To Weigh Pigs Traditional methods saw farmers installing weighing apparatus, which was costly, and also time-consuming with handlers needing to ‘persuade’ individual pigs onto the scales The average weight of a pig at market is 275 lbs, but keeping an eye on the weight of individual animals can be tricky. If a pig is smaller than it pen-mates, it is likely to be pushed away when it comes to feeding time. This means it will not grow to its full size. In this situation, pig farmers may move the smaller pigs into a separate pen, so they can get to the food and ‘catch up’ with their larger brothers and sisters. But how do you weigh a pig? Traditional methods involved a tape measure and many hands.... and were, of course, very time-consuming to complete. And that was without the maths part at the end! Later methods saw farmers installing weighing apparatus, which was costly, and also time-consuming with handlers needing to ‘persuade’ individual pigs onto the scales. Another issue with this system was that accuracy could be affected, as it was hard to tell if the scales had just one pig on them. Monitoring The Growth Of Pigs “The pig handlers need to drag the pigs physically to the scales, which is not only very hard, time-consuming work, but also stresses the pig out”, said Kasper Rønn Christensen, Strategic Purchaser at SKOV. “Stressed pigs don’t eat, which also affects their growth rate.” Enter a whole new innovative solution, using Hikvision cameras and a specially designed SKOV VMS. After testing various cameras, SKOV approached Hikvision because of the competitive price and clear, reliable pictures even at only 2MP resolution. That, combined with the ability to build a firmware specifically for their needs, persuaded SKOV to work with Hikvision. Between four and eight 2-line mini-dome cameras (DS-2CD2142FWD-I (4mm)) are placed in the pigpens, to allow handlers to see what’s going on and to monitor the growth progress of the pigs. These specific cameras were chosen because of the low amount of spare space in a pigpen and the importance of an affordable solution. Affordable VMS Solution To Calculate Pigs’ Weight SKOV is offering the solution to all regions with piggeries, including in Thailand, where they have a subsidiary “We were looking for a solution that could be used by piggeries all over the world,” says Kasper Rønn Christensen. “That meant we needed to make it simple, practical and affordable. The fact that, even at a relatively low resolution of 2MP, clear actionable pictures were consistently available made these cameras a smart choice.” Connection to the SKOV VMS means that the pigs’ weights can be calculated and so monitored. The VMS also gives alarms if a pig doesn’t follow the required growth rate, so steps can be taken. The success of the project in Denmark means it can be replicated all over the world to help piggeries to manage their pigs and make sure they maximize their potential. SKOV is offering the solution to all regions with piggeries, including in Thailand, where they have a subsidiary. Surveillance Cameras For Smart Farming “The cameras are integrated and working as expected, so we can look to the future,” says Kasper Rønn Christensen. “We are really impressed with the way Hikvision adapted their firmware to our needs. I also love the innovative approach - who would have thought that a technology that was designed to help spot intruders could be used to ensure pigs grew to the correct weight!” Peter Guan, Channel and Marketing Director, said: “We are heading to a future where traditional farming is digitalized into smart farming, where surveillance cameras are not only used for crime prevention at the farms, but also as useful tools for farmers. Hikvision’s ecosystem partner program allows easy software and hardware integration so that end users can benefit from an innovative and more powerful complete solution.”

VIVOTEK brought Varun Beverages Ltd. soft drinks plant on par with the evolving security landscape VIVOTEK has extended its IP surveillance services by improving the efficiency of daily operations at soft drinks franchise Varun Beverages Ltd. Prior to this, Varun Beverages had experienced a number of different issues, despite being under analog surveillance. These issues included everything from theft to the operational inefficiency of workers. By helping Varun Beverages to realize the shortcomings of analog surveillance, VIVOTEK brought the plant on par with the evolving security landscape. Along with its partner Network Technology, VIVOTEK changed the analog video surveillance solutions to IP surveillance solutions for improved video and image quality and enhanced Field of View (FOV). Complete End-to-end Solution Commenting on the success of the project, Sanjeev Gulati, Country Manager, India & SAARC, VIVOTEK Inc. commented: “Despite existing security surveillance arrangements, Varun Beverages reported a number of thefts. Adding to their distress was the poor image quality and limited coverage area of their existing analog surveillance solutions. Their daily operations suffered due to these drawbacks. After having analyzed the situation, along with Network Technology, we suggested altering their analog surveillance solution to an IP surveillance solution. We gave them a complete end-to-end solution; from general surveillance to various checkpoints in the plant. The deployment of VIVOTEK solutions transformed operations to be more productive and secure. They are now satisfied with the video and image quality of their security surveillance system.” Robust Security Solution A spokesperson for Varun Beverages commented: “We were very concerned about the issues that we were dealing with; be it security, operational or employee disputes. VIVOTEK's IP surveillance system worked with us step by step to not only provide the robust security solution we were looking for, but also to help us navigate through all our key plant requirements. The IP surveillance system has significantly improved control over the entire production process and administrative areas of all our production facilities. "The solution enables an efficient and centralized security through which the manager can monitor remotely anytime and anywhere" The solution enables an efficient and centralized security through which the manager can monitor remotely anytime and anywhere, promptly and effectively. VIVOTEK has been extremely helpful during the planning stage and in providing technical support, which exceeded our expectations. We are looking forward to working with them in the future as their business expands.” VIVOTEK VAST Video Management Software The video management software used to operate the IP surveillance solution is VIVOTEK VAST, which is connected to various camera models, including 5-megapixel 360-degree surround view fisheye camera FE8180, the robust Full-HD speed dome camera SD8363E, the 3-megapixel outdoor ready 180-degree view fisheye camera CC8370-HV, the 2-megapixel 15-meter IR illuminator fixed dome camera FD8169, and two bullet-type cameras IB8369 and IB8367. VIVOTEK and its associate partner also segregated the cameras on the basis of lens types, such as fixed lens camera and varifocal lens camera for different applications. After the installation of the new IP surveillance system, Varun Beverages has managed to prevent thefts in its warehouses and plants. The workers and operation staff, being well-aware of the new enhanced security surveillance, stick to company protocol and uphold company standards in terms of hygiene and effective and efficient operations.