Ruggedized products

Western Digital Purple microSDAs announces the adoption of 4K Ultra HD video, emerging artificial intelligence (AI) applications and analytics drive the rapid growth and evolution of data in surveillance, Western Digital Corp. unveiled the Western Digital Purple microSD card, purpose-built for the complex and dynamic data demands of modern surveillance cameras and edge systems. Surveillance system operators can count on the robust Western Digital Purple microSD card to support a continuous surveillance workload 24x7 Surveillance Video Capture Whether it’s a business employing surveillance video to keep their assets secure or a retailer utilizing surveillance to accurately analyze shopping behavior through video facial recognition, capturing and assessing every moment is critical. Optimized for 24x7 surveillance video capture, surveillance system operators can count on the robust Western Digital Purple microSD card to support a continuous surveillance workload. With its outstanding performance, the card captures and preserves video in a variety of high-definition and next-generation formats, including 4K Ultra HD video, as well as nimbly supports the movement of data to core data systems for analytics and fast business insights. The rugged and humidity-resistant design of this new card enables trusted video capture in a wide range of environmental conditions, including outdoors in snowy winters and indoors in hot and humid factory settings. Mainstream Commercial Surveillance “From Big Data, to Fast Data, to data-centric applications such as surveillance, the volume, speed, variety and value of data continues to exponentially grow and transform. Leveraging our proven capabilities in consumer and industrial memory card innovation, the Western Digital Purple microSD card is the ideal solution for mainstream commercial surveillance data at the edge,” said Christopher Bergey, vice president of embedded and integrated solutions at Western Digital. Western Digital now provides the industry’s most comprehensive offering for surveillance data, from the edge to the core" “Whether capturing 4K video, used in AI-enabled cameras, or part of a larger data system supporting ‘smart surveillance’ applications, this rugged and intelligent card delivers ‘surveillance-class’ endurance and tremendous performance to enable trusted video capture in some of the harshest conditions." "When combined with our popular Purple and Ultrastar hard disk drives (HDDs) to support data preservation and real-time analytics, Western Digital now provides the industry’s most comprehensive offering for surveillance data, from the edge to the core.” Data-Centric Surveillance Demands Designed to support a wide range of video resolutions and surveillance video recording implementations, additional highlights of the new microSD card include: Robust Endurance for Continuous Recording: Supports up to 1,000 PE Cycles Card Health Status Functionality for Easy Card Maintenance: In compatible cameras, a unique health monitor offers reporting capabilities to provide users and system installers valuable information, including the card’s endurance and capacity status, enabling predictive maintenance and taking the “guess work” out of when to service the card. High Performance for Next-Generation Video: Offers speeds of up to 80 MBs sequential read and 50 MBs sequential write and supports Speed Class 10 and UHS Speed Class 11. Trusted Video Capture in Wide Range of Climates: Designed for use in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 85°C, it enables reliable video capture indoors and outdoors. High Capacity to Capture and Preserve Video if Connection to Network Connection is Lost: Offered in capacities up to 64GB2 Today’s surveillance systems have moved beyond simple low-resolution video capture, to massive networks capturing 4K video"Advanced Analytics Software “Today’s surveillance systems have moved beyond simple low-resolution video capture, to massive networks capturing 4K video and leveraging advanced new analytics software to unlock new business value from video recordings,” said Michael Palma, IDC Research Director for Semiconductor and Enabling Technologies. “This has resulted in a surge in the volume and velocity of surveillance data at the edge and is creating demand for storage solutions that support the performance requirements of 4K video, 24x7 operation, and movement of video for smart insights.” Portfolio Of Data Storage Devices The new Western Digital Purple microSD card complements a full portfolio of data storage devices purpose-built for today’s surveillance needs, including the Western Digital Purple Surveillance HDD for high-capacity support for NVRs and DVRs and the Ultrastar HDD series for use in back-end servers performing surveillance analytics. Together, they provide surveillance system integrators and installers a complete solution to capture, preserve, access and transform surveillance data. Additionally, Western Digital offers original equipment manufacturers industrial-grade SanDisk Industrial card storage solutions for use with cameras with in-camera analytics capabilities and a variety of connected surveillance applications. The new microSD card will be available worldwide through Western Digital’s authorized reseller network Product Availability The new microSD card will be available worldwide through Western Digital’s authorized reseller network in April in 32GB and 64GB capacities for $18.99 and $31.99 MSRP (in the U.S.) respectively; cards available in single and convenient 25-packs for surveillance system installers and integrators. For more information on the Western Digital Purple microSD card and the complete Western Digital Purple surveillance portfolio, visit the Western Digital booth at ISC West International Security Conference & Exposition (Booth #2089).

DITEK, a global provider of surge protection solutions, is displaying their new DTK-RM24NETS, a modular, rack-mounted surge protector here at ISC West 2018 (booth #6103). Designed with state-of-the-art circuitry, DTK-RM24NETS provides superior protection for shielded Ethernet and PoE connections and is ideal for installations where multiple Ethernet cabling feeds require surge protection before entering network switches. The DTK-RM24NETS is the next evolution in surge protectors for Ethernet and PoE Cost-Effective Measure “The DTK-RM24NETS is the next evolution in surge protectors for Ethernet and PoE,” said Jason Klein, National Sales Manager, DITEK. “It provides both exceptional value and exceptional protection for networked devices and is easy to maintain and replace when the device has sacrificed.” “Surge protection is an important preventative step to help preserve the functionality of devices and systems,” said Mr. Klein. “Adding surge protection is an easy, cost-effective measure to ensure life safety and security devices can do their essential jobs without interruption.”  Rugged Housing The DTK-RM24NETS is a 24-channel, 1U rack mount surge protector providing the industry’s strongest surge protection for shielded Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE) connections. This surge protector is compatible with CAT5e, CAT6 and CAT6A cabling infrastructure, supports data speeds up to 10GbE, offers field-replaceable modules that can be swapped without removing from rack and provides surge protection grounding to remote devices when used with STP cabling. The DTK-RM24NETS is PoE Plus and HiPoE ready for high-wattage applications and complies with IEEE standards 802.3af and 802.3at for PoE surge protection and is enclosed in rugged galvanneal housing.

LILIN Americas has announced a major expansion of its surveillance camera family with three new AHD models featuring 1080p/1280H resolution, a remote auto-focus 2.8-8mm lens, and long transmission distances, along with the convenience of three form factors -dome, bullet and turret - to fit a variety of applications in retail, SMB, C-Store and commercial properties. The new remote auto focus AHD products provide a value-added offering with the high-quality video found in LILIN's popular IP series with integration into leading automation platforms. High-Definition Surveillance "We have worked hard in identifying ways to improve the overall installation experience with our HD analog products. Simply mount and aim the camera type that best fits the application then adjust the FOV and fine tune the focus using AHD UTC communication from the DHD516 series and other compatible recorders," said Joe Cook, General Manager of LILIN Americas, Inc.The AHD662AX2.8 is a rugged outdoor dome camera with both an IK vandal-resistance protection, defogging and IP66 weather resistant rating "Our newest AHD cameras allow installers to maintain the familiarity of analog video technology while enjoying the benefits of high-definition surveillance combined with simplified installation." Infrared LED Technology UTC or "Up The Coax" technology lets users remotely set up LILIN AHD cameras using compatible UTC recorders, reducing the time and eliminating the need for vari-focal adjustments at the camera. In addition, Infrared LED automatically activates for image capture in total darkness. The three new cameras will be showcased at the upcoming ISC West Show in LILIN booth #32079, scheduled for April 10-13 in the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. The new AHD652AX2.8 is a small, unobtrusive turret-style dome camera designed for indoor/outdoor use, especially in low-light areas. The AHD662AX2.8 is a rugged outdoor dome camera with both an IK vandal-resistance protection, defogging and IP66 weather resistant rating in a wide temperature range of -40°F to 122°F. The AHD842AX2.8 is a fully-featured bullet camera for indoor and outdoor use.

Viking’s K-1900-7-IP is a durable, attractive, and easy to use VoIP SIP hot line phone, capable of withstanding harsh conditions and abuse. “The K-1900-7-IP provides a vandal resistant aspect that most VoIP SIP phones fall short of. Plus, it’s easy to use and program.” – James Catt, Engineer, Viking Electronics, Inc. The K-1900-7-IP calls a number when the handset is lifted. Once the call is answered two-way communication is established. If the first number is busy or doesn’t answer, up to 4 additional numbers can be dialed in a roll-over sequence. The K-1900-7-IP is PoE Class 1 powered, and VoIP SIP compliant. Viking’s K-1900-7-IP is a durable, attractive, and easy to use VoIP SIP hot line phone K-1900-7-IP Features The built-in relay contacts of the K-1900-7-IP can be programmed to activate when the phone is taken off-hook, or when a touch tone command is entered by the called party. This is ideal for controlling lights and cameras, or for activating a door strike or mag lock to grant the caller access to the facility. The K-1900-7-IP flush mounts to a standard double gang box, or can be surface mounted using Viking model VE-5X10 Surface Mount Box, sold separately. Another mounting option is Viking model VE-9X20, a heavy-duty outdoor enclosure which can be used to surface mount and protect the K-1900-7-IP panel phone in harsh environments. The built-in relay contacts of the K-1900-7-IP can be programmed to activate when the phone is taken off-hook Viking’s Enhanced Weather Protection The K-1900-7-IP-EWP has all the features listed above and is equipped with Viking’s Enhanced Weather Protection, which is designed to meets IP66 ratings for outdoor use.

Continental Access, a division of NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc., is pleased to announce the debut of the next generation Access Control Appliance (model #CA-ASA), based on the popular demand and success of the previous Application Integration Appliance (#CA-AIA). With this super-quick, convenient installation, there's no software to license or install on any client or server; all that’s required is a typical web browser.  Now featuring a reliable 256GB Solid State Drive – 2-times the storage, and 8 GB of RAM, the CA-ASA is a compact solid-state network appliance that virtually fits in your hand, runs on an embedded OS, and comes ready-to-go, pre-installed with the latest version of CA4K Integrated Access Control Enterprise Software with full Native Client and Web Client Interface, providing integrated access, locking, alarms and video, and the fastest, fuss-proof installation ever. It has no moving parts for a long life, and is built on a rugged, embedded computing platform. CA-ASA is a compact solid-state network appliance that virtually fits in your hand Easy Installation Conveniently desktop- or wall-mounted and ultra easy-to-install, the IT-Friendly CA-ASA Appliance frees up time spent installing and configuring applications, gathering license data or installing service packs, and its browser-based interface runs on any OS, and eliminates specialized training, and costs for any additional software or licensing. While it’s backward compatible with ALL Continental Access Control Panels (old & new), it features all Continental’s latest updates, including integration with Trilogy Networx, ArchiTech Wireless Access Locks and Networx Panel and includes a USB Flash Drive with full system backup.

Vicon Industries, Inc., designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components, introduces further enhancements in the Starlight technology cameras. Vicon’s new Starlight versions of the popular V940 IP camera series produces flawless full-color video streams in near-dark lighting conditions. These lowlight cameras are offered in dome and bullet configurations with eye-opening ultra-high-sensitivity down to 0.002 lux (color) and 0.0006 lux (B&W), enabling full color images in almost full darkness when standard cameras would have switched to black-and-white. Where other cameras fail to show any image at all, Starlight cameras are still capable of delivering detailed monochrome images. This further improves video exposure quality in scenes with high contrast between bright and dark areas. Ruggedized IP66-Rated Cameras Starlight technology is recommended for areas where lighting at night is poor, such as public parking lots, recreational areas, playgrounds, banks, restaurants, night clubs and many other applications with challenging lighting conditions. Their rugged construction makes them suitable for harsh indoor or outdoor environments and are IP66 and IK10 rated. Vicon is committed to staying at the forefront of all the newest and most innovative technologies in the surveillance industry. It has designed all of its new IP cameras for business security applications with advanced security features, addressing the unique needs of today’s complex security demands. These advanced features include smart encoding, H.265 compression, museum search capabilities and adaptive IR LED technology. Vicon’s IP high-definition cameras, encoders and recording solutions work seamlessly with Vicon’s Valerus VMS security software and solutions from many other industry providers. These cameras are backed by ONVIF conformance (Open Network Video Interface Forum), which allows Vicon products to easily integrate with third-party systems.

As anyone who has ever flown on a commercial airline since 2001 knows, security measures at airports are well enforced and the emphasis on traveler safety is all around the airport and its grounds. Mass transportation, meanwhile, presents a special but not any less significant challenge when it comes to determining security issues. These facilities need to develop the means to protect a constantly changing and large population of passengers. And unlike airports these facilities often have hundreds of points of entry and exit on multiple modes—buses, subways, light rail, commuter trains, even ferries. About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation. In fact, statistics have shown that nearly 11 billion trips are taken on public transportation every year. In some large metropolitan areas in North America where mass transit is well established, more than 20 percent of the area’s inhabitants get around via public transportation.About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation Solving Mass Transit Security For transportation officials and their security providers, solving the mass transit security issue begins with determining the key concerns and then creating the proper responses via security systems, policies and procedures to mitigate the risks. Although vandalism and graffiti are very visible signs of criminal behaviour in mass transit settings such as bus stops and subway stations, this is not where transportation officials typically focus their energy. Fences and gates can secure out-of-service buses and train cars, as can remote surveillance methods to keep such vandalism at a minimum. Instead, it is the day-to-day safety and security of transit riders and employees that should become the highest priority. This begins with creating the safest environment possible that is highlighted with appropriate signage and, when necessary, audible warnings, and supporting that with technology, such as surveillance cameras, that will document what has happened if an incident occurs.Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Crime Prevention In Transportation Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Incidents of concern within a transit setting can take several forms, ranging from legitimate accidents or crimes to false claims such as faked fall down the stairs to potential and actual suicides. Bus and subway stations also have become magnets for homeless people who may put themselves and others in harm’s way by trying to access less secure public areas within a station as temporary shelters. If someone is injured on a subway platform and the transit provider is held liable, it could be on the hook for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars. Suicides are a major concern for operators, with personnel now being trained to look for individuals who seem distressed, are loitering in the area or are intentionally putting themselves in a dangerous situation, such as standing too close to the edge of a platform. The deployment of video analytics, which can be programmed to send alerts when certain pre-set actions occur, can help determine when such dangerous behaviours come into play. Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package or a person going into a restricted area. Whether it is on the bus, train or ferry or at the stops themselves, cameras and intuitive video management systems are the key to both active and forensic transit security. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras Train Security And Safety By using the proper cameras and recording systems in a transit environment, quick-acting personnel can locate a person of interest who boarded a train at one station, follow him during his trip and produce a crisp, clear identifiable image at the end. Those setting up the system thus should keep in mind proper camera positioning, resolution and motion-based changes to framerates or other compression settings. A typical 30-foot bus often has six cameras—one each at the front and middle doors, two more within the bus and then one looking forward and another looking behind the bus. The latter two are important in the event of accidents to verify liability. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras.Train stations often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image Train cars are similarly equipped with two to four cameras to view activity down the centre aisle. Within the stations themselves, there can be from 15 to 30 or more cameras capturing wide-angle shots. Train stations, which have a restricted point of egress, often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image. Installing The Right Technology For The Solution Although bandwidth and storage can be a concern, with motion-based recording, the resolution can be bumped up during event, resulting in a 1-megapixel stream jumping to 4 or even 8mbps when needed. By changing the resolution on demand, end users can cut their storage needs significantly. Transportation settings often rely on the same technology used in other security installations, primarily mini dome cameras, although there are some mini transit domes built specifically for the environment with the proper aesthetics. Because of vandalism threats, transit typically avoids pendant mounts, which can be more easily grabbed and damaged. Temperature ratings for cameras also come into play in cold climates with cameras often getting outdoor exposure.Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage As trains and buses move along their routes, especially those that service outlying areas, Internet connectivity becomes an issue as well. Because it may be difficult for video to be sent in transit, security bus barns are equipped with Wi-Fi so video from onboard cameras can be downloaded at the end of the day. And the use of hardened recorders at the stations allows security personnel to retrieve recorded video. Transit Security With Modern Technology Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage. Older infrastructure from long-standing subway and bus terminals can prove to be a challenge when adding security, but these issues aren’t insurmountable. Often the solution is to add more cameras to cover the same square footage because of less-than-ideal sight lines and to place conduit wherever it works best, which may mean positioning it under platforms or in other out-of-the-way places within older stations. Looking ahead, transit security will continue to evolve, not only as new stations and modes of transportation are added to the system, but in terms of communicating with commuters. People can expect to get mass notification alerts on their mobile devices, and those same devices can provide vital data to transportation entities to better develop their overall systems.

It's no secret that one of the next market segments to see exceptional growth nationwide is somewhat non-traditional: cannabis. The global cannabis market is projected to reach $60 billion by 2024, according to Ameri Research, fueled by the increasing legalisation and decriminalisation across much of the United States. It is estimated that 22 million pounds of marijuana are grown each year in the United States, with 80 percent coming from California, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii and Washington, according to Mother Jones. Unlike other products, this commodity is valuable from the moment the seeds go in the ground to the exchanging of money for end-user products - and at every point in between.Within large greenhouses, 360-degree cameras that show a wide field of view are essential for cannabis protection From seedlings to selling, securing every point within the supply chain is vital to the assets being distributed, and companies are now realising how lucrative this endeavor can be. Critical to the success of the industry is keeping the merchandise secure and the workers safe. In this article, we explore each part of the supply chain within the cannabis market and address ways of implementing robust security measures.  Plants, Fields And Greenhouses This is one industry where money actually grows on trees! When cannabis crops are planted either in greenhouses or in fields, security becomes critical, since the plants themselves are worth a significant amount of money. A single truckload can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, so securing the load is crucial to the process Producers don't want plants stolen – especially high-end varieties that garner a bigger profit when harvested and sold – and the size of the plants make theft a greater possibility. Video surveillance becomes vital at this point and can be used in a variety of ways. Within large greenhouses, single cameras that can cover a wide expanse of space, such as cameras that offer 360-degree views, are essential and can provide more coverage with less investment overall than traditional narrow field-of-view cameras.Advanced technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (or drones), are also being used in open fields in an effort to protect these plants.  Comprehensive video surveillance becomes the main tool for thwarting cannabis theft and addressing incidents as they arise Transportation And Protection Once the plants are mature enough to be harvested, they must be transported to a production facility where they are either dried or cured based on the needs of the grower, as well as processed and transformed into edible products to be sold at retail locations. There are already a range of companies that specialize in keeping these crop yields safe while they are transported: think Brinks armored transportation used for cash, but for cannabis. A single truckload can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars – if not more – so securing the load is crucial to the process. Losing one of these loads can lead to large-scale losses for a producer. Surveillance equipment that can withstand sanitation standards and power-washing is paramount for effective protection After being transported, cannabis must be processed. In these environments, where strict handling processes are in place, surveillance equipment that can withstand sanitation standards and power-washing is paramount. This requires camera enclosures that are rated for resistance to high-pressure water jets, dust and vandalism/tampering. Since edible processing requires stringent regulations be followed, it becomes more critical for security managers to identify solutions that carry the NSF Mark, making them compliant with standards set forth for commercial food equipment in North America, or the HCV EU, the equivalent in Europe.  Many of these locations handle and store large amounts of cash since customers have to pay with cash Retail Protection As the final products come out of processing and go into storefronts to be sold by retailers in States that have recreational or medical facilities, there's another level of security that must be in place to protect these transactions. But careful considerations must be made. Traditional security tags cannot generally be used because of the small size of many of the end products, making it more difficult to track with tracking devices. Traditional security tags cannot generally be used because of the small size of many of the end products In this instance, comprehensive video surveillance becomes the main tool for thwarting theft and addressing incidents as they arise. In these locations, a loss prevention or security officer has to be an integral part of the team. Another consideration is the careful screening of the potential employees.  Since the federal government doesn't recognize cannabis producers and retailers, banks that are federally insured through the FDIC don't accept money from these establishments, meaning that many of these locations handle and store large amounts of cash since customers have to pay with cash. There must be security measures in place for these kinds of transactions, including the ability for video surveillance to be played back instantaneously in the event of an incident at a cash register. The cannabis market comes with a variety of challenges at each and every step of the operation, from growing to transport to production and sales. Video surveillance and business intelligence solutions are ideal for these applications, and as the market grows, more and more security companies will look to cater to the market. 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is having a significant and ever-changing impact on the way we view video security. Today, cameras are expected to be so much more than devices with which to simply capture images; they need to be far smarter than that. These future-facing cameras are becoming an integral part of the vast digital connectivity infrastructure, delivering a parallel performance as intelligent sensors with the ability to extract the kind of invaluable data that helps businesses make improvements in the area of video security, and beyond. However, as the list of possibilities grows, so too does the risk of unauthorized access by cybercriminals. We should all be aware that a single weak link in a communications infrastructure can give hackers access to sensitive data. That’s the bad news. Safeguarding Data And Utilizing Deep Learning The good news is cybercrime can be avoided by employing a data security system that’s completely effective from end-to-end. One technological advancement that the trend-spotters are predicting will become part of the video security vocabulary is ‘deep learning’ Once this level of safeguarding is in place you can begin to confidently explore the technologies and trends happening now, and those on the horizon. So, what will be having an influence on surveillance in 2018? Well, according to IHS Markit, one technological advancement that the trend-spotters are predicting will become part of the video security vocabulary is ‘deep learning’, which uses algorithms to produce multiple layers of information from the same piece of data, therefore emulating the way the human brain absorbs innumerable details every second. In Europe, GDPR compliance will also be a big talking point as new principles for video surveillance data collection, use limitation, security safeguards, individual participation and accountability are introduced. And, as the popularity – and misuse – of drones continues to rise, the recent developments in drone detection technology will be particularly welcomed by those whose primary concern relates to large areas, such as airport perimeter security. The Future Of 'Smart' Video Analytics An important feature of today’s intelligent cameras is the ability to provide smart video analytics. The Bosch ‘i’ series, for example, offers a choice of formats – Essential Video Analytics and Intelligent Video Analytics. Essential Video Analytics is geared toward regular applications such as small and medium businesses looking to support business intelligence (e.g. inter-network data transfer), large retail stores and commercial buildings for advanced intrusion detection, enforcing health and safety regulations (no-parking zones or detecting blocked emergency exits) and analyzing consumer behavior. The camera-based, real-time processing can also be used to detect discarded objects, issue loitering alarms and detect people or objects entering a pre-defined field. Intelligent Video Analytics provides additional capabilities. It is designed for demanding environments and mission-critical applications, such as the perimeter protection of airports, critical infrastructures and government buildings, border patrol, ship-tracking and traffic-monitoring (e.g. wrong-way detection, traffic-counts and monitoring roadsides for parked cars: all vital video security solutions). An important feature of today’s intelligent cameras is the ability to provide smart video analytics Intelligent Video Analytics can also differentiate between genuine security events and known false triggers, such as challenging environments created by snow, wind (moving trees), rain, hail, and water reflections. For more expansive areas, like an airport perimeter fence, the system has the range and capability to provide analysis over large distances. And, if a moving camera is employed, it is also possible to capture data on objects in transit when used in conjunction with the Intelligent Tracking feature. For roadside use, Intelligent Video Analytics systems, such as the Bosch MIC IP range, are resistant to vibrations and can still operate in extreme weather conditions, continuing to detect objects in heavy rain or snow.  Evolving Cameras Past Surveillance It’s becoming ever clearer that the IoT is transforming the security camera from a device that simply captures images, into an intelligent sensor that plays an integral role in gathering the kind of vital business data that can be used to improve commercial operations in areas beyond security. For example, cities are transitioning into smart cities. The capabilities of an intelligent camera extend to the interaction and sharing of information with other devices (only those you have appointed) With intelligent video security cameras at the core of an urban infrastructure smart data can be collected to optimize energy consumption via smart city lighting that responds to crowd detection and movement. Cameras can also be used to improve public transport by monitoring punctuality and traffic flow based on queue lengths, with the ability to control traffic lights an option should a situation require it. As the urban sprawl continues and this infrastructure grows, the need for more knowledge of its use becomes more essential, necessitating the monitoring technology developed for use by human operators to evolve into smart sensing technology, that no longer just provides video feeds, but also uses intelligent analytics and sophisticated support systems. These systems filter out irrelevant sensor data and present only meaningful events, complete with all relevant contextual data to operators to aid their decision-making. Expanding The Video Security Camera Network Today, video analytics technology has tangible benefits for human operator surveillance, and delivers KPIs that are highly relevant to transport operators, planners and city authorities. As an existing infrastructure, a video security camera network can be improved and expanded by installing additional applications rather than replaced. From a business perspective, that means greater value from a limited investment. Thereafter, the capabilities of an intelligent camera extend to the interaction and sharing of information with other devices (only those you have appointed), image and data interpretation, and the ability to perform a variety of tasks independently to optimize both your safety and business requirements. The fact is, cameras see more than sensors. Sounds obvious, but a conventional sensor will only trigger an alarm when movement is detected, whereas a camera can also provide the associated image and information like object direction, size, color, speed or type, and use time stamps to provide historical information regarding a specific location or event. Based on this evidence, the video security camera of today is more than ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

The Middle East security market provides a healthy opportunity for manufacturers who can capitalize on the region’s key verticals. Intersec’s 20th edition show focused more on solutions than on products, including solutions for the growing retail sector and an infrastructure market requiring ruggedized equipment to stand up to harsh environments. Intersec hosted security, safety and fire protection exhibitors from over fifty countries at Dubai’s spacious International Convention and Exhibition Centre on January 21 - 23. For the security market, the show was an opportunity to demonstrate how the industry’s latest technologies can benefit end-users in the UAE and globally. While the show hosted many impressively-sized stands from key security players, these tended to reflect the ongoing shift from a product-centric market to a focus on customer problems and solutions. Rather than filling the floorspace with an abundance of products, many brands chose to showcase how their flagship solutions could function in real-world applications. Retail Surveillance Delivers ROI Numerous companies opted to highlight their retail solutions – a key vertical for Dubai, which is known for its elaborate city shopping hubs. The Axis Communications stand allowed visitors to experience its network video offerings for the retail sector, including integrations with Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) and Point of Sale (POS) technologies. Solutions on show reflected how security systems are increasingly expected to provide a tangible return on investment: With options for queue management and people counting, Axis video technology can be used to provide business intelligence and improve the customer experience, as well as enhancing safety. IP video manufacturer Vivotek also showcased its latest retail offering, including fisheye cameras with built-in crowd detection and heatmap technology, which can help retail managers analyze customer traffic patterns and highly frequented areas. The panoramic nature of Vivotek’s IP cameras makes them ideal for collecting comprehensive data from retail stores.    MOBOTIX CEO Thomas Lausten demonstrates how the company’s dual modular camera delivers high-quality images in extreme weather conditions IP Video In Extreme Conditions The MOBOTIX stand was also less product-driven than at past shows. Instead, the focus was on how the manufacturer combines intelligent IoT technology and robust materials to address real end-user needs. CEO Thomas Lausten, who joined the company in June 2017, was on-hand to demonstrate how the company’s dual modular camera continues to deliver high-quality images in extreme weather conditions including ice, rain and sand. Rugged solutions were a big theme across the show floor. This is unsurprising given Intersec’s location in Dubai – the Middle East provides ample opportunity for the security market to capitalise on large outdoor projects, including the oil and gas industry. Video surveillance manufacturer Videotec showcased its latest HD PTZ cameras built to withstand harsh outdoor environments. The stand hosted an immersive ‘Experience Center’, where the company’s flagship PTZ cameras moved in sync to a rolling video, demonstrating their use in vertical markets including oil and gas, marine surveillance, and critical infrastructure. Video surveillance manufacturer Videotec showcased its latest HD PTZ cameras built to withstand harsh outdoor environments MENA Security Market Requirements Storage provider Promise Technology showcased its latest portfolio of surveillance solutions, including a cloud-based infrastructure optimised for growing IP video requirements. The manufacturer also introduced its new Vess A700 network video recorder series. This latest NVR offering specifically targets medium- to large-scale applications such as banking and industry. Such a solution is ideal for the growing Dubai market, where strict legislation requires a video retention time of 180 days. Intersec is set to return to Dubai from 20th - 22nd January 2019. Organisers expect over 1,300 exhibitors from across to globe to come together for a bigger, wider ranging and more innovative show.

  The cloud and deep learning are two technologies on the verge of transforming the video surveillance market. You often hear the two technologies mentioned as separate trends, but lately, I have been hearing about how interdependent they are. Economies of scale provided by the Cloud (Software as a Service, or SaaS) are making the sophisticated capabilities of deep learning affordable to a wider audience. Meanwhile, deep learning augments cloud systems with capabilities that may not be available (or affordable) in on-premise systems, thus accelerating the broader move to cloud systems. A New Era Of Autonomous Video One company that is combining the cloud and deep learning in an end-to-end system is Umbo Computer Vision, an “autonomous video security technology” company built on its founders’ expertise in deep learning and machine vision. The company’s cameras are equipped with basic video analytics, and they are tied into a cloud infrastructure that provides additional deep learning algorithms. The cameras provide computer vision pre-processing, with the bulk of detailed analysis happening in a neural network in the cloud.One customer benefits from another customer and all the knowledge is aggregated together" “Having a SaaS model gives companies like ours the resources to improve the deep learning model,” says Shawn Guan, CEO and co-founder of Umbo Computer Vision. “We can make more accurate systems that scale better and faster. SaaS enables vendors to do something great with deep learning. You don’t have to redo it for everybody. One customer benefits from another customer and all the knowledge is aggregated together.” Adapting To A Changing Landscape Umbo’s deep learning analytics provide higher accuracy, says Guan. For example, the system can provide accurate alerts on people climbing a wall, and it can accommodate for elements such as shadows and adverse weather conditions. The cameras can also provide occupancy information from a video view of a room; unlike people-counting applications, the camera does not need to be mounted above the door. The algorithms can detect loitering and can track a subject even if he or she disappears briefly from view (such as walking behind a building). Umbo developed the algorithms from scratch using the company’s deep roots in technology. Guan says the company was “built on data and using data.”    The company’s cameras are equipped with basic video analytics, and they are tied into a cloud infrastructure that provides additional deep learning algorithms The Cloud Serves As A Media Gateway “Cybersecurity is ensured,” says Guan. The cloud provides built-in authentication with the camera; user names and passwords are handled in the cloud, so there is no manual reset of the password at the device level. The cloud serves as a media gateway, and two-way communication between the camera and the cloud addresses how much data is streamed. Data in the camera has 256-bit encryption, and there is a secure “tunnel” through which data moves in the Internet. In the cloud, the host provider, such as Google, Microsoft or Amazon, protects the data to their own high standards. Each camera has industrial grade SD providing 30 days’ storage of full frame rate, 30fps video at 1080p, with backup in the cloud. In effect, the camera operates in-lieu of a network video recorder.The end-to-end system is designed to handle an essentially-unlimited number of cameras and can also be integrated with other products Handling Unlimited Cameras Customers interface with the system through the cloud’s software user experience. The end-to-end system is designed to handle an essentially-unlimited number of cameras and can also be integrated with other products. Umbo targets the enterprise market and has around two-hundred enterprise customers in the United States - their biggest market - as well as offices in London and Taipei, and customers around the world. The cost structure involves an annual payment per camera, between $280 and $600 depending on features/capabilities. Umbo is introducing a new bullet camera with a zoom lens for exterior applications, incorporating a higher-end Sony sensor for good low-light performance and wide dynamic range (WDR). The camera’s modular design enables the addition of features such as longer-range infrared – increased from 100 to 160 feet – white-light LED to provide a color image, and greater deterrence, at night, and a long-range microphone for audio. The company also offers a fixed-lens dome camera for indoor applications.

The last two years have been pivotal for MOBOTIX, the German IP surveillance manufacturer. In 2016, the company entered into a share transfer agreement with Konica Minolta, a provider of advanced imaging and sensor solutions. More recently, the company has welcomed new CEO Thomas Lausten, who joins MOBOTIX with a wealth of experience from companies including Siemens, ADI Global Distribution and Milestone Systems. The changes have been accompanied by an updated look for the MOBOTIX brand, with a simpler logo and more unified branding across solutions and regions. SourceSecurity.com caught up with CEO Thomas Lausten and CSO Dr. Tristen Haage [pictured left-to-right] to find out what we can expect from the new-look MOBOTIX. High-quality IP Solutions In A Commoditized Market With a new CEO and Konica Minolta on board, MOBOTIX is set for expansion on a global scale. But how much growth can we expect for a company like MOBOTIX in an increasingly commoditized surveillance market, where many of the larger players compete on price as a key differentiator? While MOBOTIX respects those players, says Lausten, the German manufacturer wants to tell a different story. Rather than competing as a camera hardware manufacturer, MOBOTIX is increasingly positioning itself as a specialist in high-quality IP surveillance software – camera units are just one part of an intelligent system. When MOBOTIX succeeds in telling this story, partners understand that it’s not about the price. "They stop selling boxes,” says Haage, “and start selling IoT devices." To this end, the company is deliberately moving away from promoting individual products and features, and instead concentrating its efforts on complete vertical market solutions where IoT devices can add the most value. These vertical markets include retail, transportation, perimeter protection and industry – although the list is set to expand with the addition of Konica Minolta’s expertise. “When you look at companies like MOBOTIX where there are people who have been on this ride for years, it’s clear they are passionate people” MOBOTIX has the potential to stand out in these markets; not only because of the company’s advanced IoT and sensor capabilities, but also because of its famous robustness. In challenging environments such as transportation and industry, MOBOTIX devices are ruggedized to withstand motion and shock, all the while providing reliable image quality and detection with fewer cameras. In the retail sector, MOBOTIX is already working on integrations with Point of Sale (POS) technologies, and hopes to add value for end users by partnering with experts in the fields of analytics and facial recognition. As Haage explains, “Driving innovation is not just about finding the best image resolution. It’s about finding new ways to innovate.” What Makes MOBOTIX Unique? Lausten sees MOBOTIX as distinct within the industry. This is due to the unmatched passion and longevity within the MOBOTIX community. “The passion in this company is unique,” says Lausten. “When you look at companies like MOBOTIX where there are people who have been on this ride for years, it’s clear they are passionate people.” The company has kept this enthusiasm from the beginning, through MOBOTIX’s continuing transformation to its new-look incarnation today. “It comes back to what [Dr. Ralf] Hinkel made: A community of partners.” According to Haage, this enthusiasm boils down to MOBOTIX’s mission to provide integrators with high-quality, smart products: “The people on the sales team appreciate they are not selling a commodity – not just a camera – but a smart IoT device with German quality, and this is what drives people in the company.” MOBOTIX is increasingly positioning itself as a specialist in high-quality IP surveillance software – camera units are just one part of an intelligent system Developing MOBOTIX On A Global Scale Might the majority acquisition by Konica Minolta alter MOBOTIX’s distinct “Made in Germany” DNA? No, says Lausten, who wants to reassure partners. While MOBOTIX is 65% owned by Konica Minolta, with many other shareholders, it remains an independent company. What Konica Minolta brings to the table is a financially strong owner who can advise on technology development. By leveraging MOBOTIX’s existing IP technologies and Konica Minolta’s advanced optical systems, the companies can work together to develop Intelligent solutions for specific vertical markets, including perimeter security and healthcare, according to Lausten. The challenge is to take what is already great about MOBOTIX – proven quality, made in Germany – and develop this on a global scale In addition to technology advances, the deal aims to broaden the distribution of MOBOTIX products by leveraging Konica Minolta’s global direct sales network and support systems. Although there are no “open doors” between the two companies, there is ongoing collaboration between Konica Minolta and MOBOTIX channel partners. Konica Minolta has a customer-centric approach and good relationships with end users in Europe and beyond, and can share this experience with MOBOTIX and its partners. While MOBOTIX has traditionally had a headquarters-centric approach, says Haage, the introduction of Thomas Lausten and Konica Minolta allows the company to cater to the individual needs of various regions, including the US. One might expect this increasingly global focus to mean that MOBOTIX will be varying its approach to products from region to region. On the contrary, explains Lausten, the challenge is to take what is already great about MOBOTIX – proven quality, made in Germany – and develop this on a global scale. Unifying the company’s approach globally is the best way to ensure customers’ needs are met efficiently. “When we do something,” says Lausten, “we do it properly.” Cybersecurity Concerns Drive Innovation The company’s focus on innovation and quality is increasingly important in a market beset by cybersecurity concerns. Whereas two years ago end users were choosing products based on price, they are now asking whether devices have a back door to cyber threats. "The biggest concern for C-level people is cybersecurity,” predicts Lausten, “This will be a key driver moving forward." MOBOTIX's quality-driven focus means the company is well-prepared for this change: One hundred percent of software is programmed in-house, with frequent firmware and software upgrades to fix weak points. In the case of a software reset, this can only be carried out by sending the device back to MOBOTIX, which may seem less convenient from an end-user perspective, but significantly increases the security of the process. In light of cyber security threats, should users be concerned that MOBOTIX is becoming increasingly open to integrations with other video surveillance partners? The company is aware of the concerns, says Haage, and can therefore take countermeasures. While the market today is based upon open systems, MOBOTIX does not take partnership lightly. By integrating with key players only where there exists a synergy with MOBOTIX’s own technologies, the company can work on new aspects such as IT systems and processes, while taking MOBOTIX’s core products to the next level. “You have to comply with industry trends,” concedes Haage, “but that’s not the whole story.”

PureTech Systems recently announces a delivery milestone for the next phase of the Border Patrol’s Mobile Video Surveillance Systems (MVSS) program. The latest deliveries, consisting of ruggedised Ford F-150 trucks outfitted with telescoping surveillance payloads, are being deployed in San Diego, CA and will support mobile video surveillance up to 6 miles away. Remote Surveillance Scenarios The event was followed by Fox 5 News and ABC 10 News in San Diego and highlighted the value to Border Patrol agents in the field, including rapid deployment and ease of use. The MVSS platform utilizes PureTech Systems’ PureActiv software as its central command and control, providing video intelligence, user interface display and sensor collaboration logic for the surveillance suite which consists of visible and thermal cameras mounted on a telescoping mast which extends over 35 feet in the air. Mobile Surveillance Solution In the interview with ABC 10 News, Michael Scappechio, a supervisor with the Border Patrol, said, it’s their increased rate of arrests that landed the trucks here, “nearly a 90 percent increase is significant, that’s going to get attention, that’s going to get resources, that’s going to get man power, infrastructure and technology.” Border Patrol also furthered that these trucks won’t replace the border wall but instead, will go hand in hand with it. PureTech Systems is teamed with Benchmark Electronics to deliver the complete mobile surveillance with the mission to track and identify Items of Interest (IOI) along the U.S. southwest border and other remote surveillance scenarios where rapid mobile deployment is needed. The most recent delivery of the mobile video surveillance solution is not the first, with several systems already being deployed along the border in Texas.

Located roughly 30 miles southwest of Los Angeles, Torrance Unified School District hosts roughly 24,000 students from kindergarten through high school. Torrance USD has 34 school sites encompassing elementary schools, middle schools and high schools. They’re joined by three preschool, continuation and community day schools. Violent crime and other offenses are an inescapable reality for US schools and their students. During the 2013–14 school year, 65 percent of public schools [Source: U.S. Department of Education] recorded one or more violent incidents occurring, representing an estimated total of 757,000 incidents. This figure translates to a rate of approximately 15 crimes per 1,000 students enrolled in 2013–14. Outstanding Service “Visibility of what happens on campus gives us the upper hand with all forms of crime that may be committed. School safety is our number one concern and being able to see what’s happening and identify those involved is paramount. Sony cameras definitely give us that advantage. Their reliability, imaging quality and technology – combined with outstanding service – made Sony the best choice for us.” Gil Mara, Chief Ed Tech and Information Services Officer, Torrance Unified School District While Torrance consistently ranks among the safest cities in Los Angeles County, its schools face the same challenges as other academic institutions. In common with all school systems, TUSD has an obligation to maintain the safety, security and wellbeing of students as well as staff and campus visitors. Alongside violent assault, other key concerns include theft, break-ins, vandalism and graffiti – together with the need to maintain a visible deterrent against criminal activity. Sub-Standard Image Quality Torrance Unified School District had relied on some ad-hoc installations at a few schools that were both poorly planned and had no consistent standards To date, Torrance Unified School District had relied on some ad-hoc installations at a few schools that were both poorly planned and had no consistent standards in place. The cameras poor positioning and sub-standard image quality – particularly in low light conditions – meant that perpetrators were frequently not identified successfully. This severely limited schools’ ability to resolve incidents and serve as an effective deterrent against further incidents. In addition to physical attacks and theft, schools in the district routinely reported instances of vandalism to the cameras themselves. As a further challenge, the heat and dust of the Southern Californian climate placed even more strenuous demands on the reliable performance of Torrance Unified School District’s existing analog cameras. Security Camera Strategy To benefit from significantly improved round the clock image quality – as well as greater reliability and reduced ownership costs – Torrance Unified School District elected to re-think its security camera strategy. In total, the district has installed roughly 1,100 Sony video security cameras across 34 school sites. All cameras have been supplied and installed by integrator NIC, together with a networked video management solution provided by OpenEye. The majority of cameras are Sony SNC-EM632RC and SNC-VB632D ruggedised minidome model and bullet cameras, offering superb Full HD image quality in all weather and lighting conditions. “Torrance police have access to our security camera system and it affords them visibility on our campuses, as was the case just recently where a vehicle burglary suspect was identified and apprehended thanks to our Sony Video Security system.” Will Boxley – Network Analyst, EDU Tech and Information Services. Measurable Effect On Student Safety Reliable cameras are deployed extensively around all outdoor areas of each school campus, including social and sports areas as well as parking lots The cameras’ highly sensitive Exmor CMOS image sensor and powerful IPELA ENGINE EX processing engine can even cope with harshly backlit conditions, where extremes of light and shade in the same scene often pose problems for other cameras. As an additional benefit, built-in IR (infrared) illumination gives a clear picture of people and suspicious incidents in conditions of total darkness. The rugged, reliable cameras are deployed extensively around all outdoor areas of each school campus, including social and sports areas as well as parking lots. Since initial installation in 2015, the Sony cameras have performed flawlessly, with no operational issues reported by IT and security staff. The cameras’ installation has had an immediate and measurable effect on student safety. Suspensions due to violence and assaults have been reduced considerably, while the incidence of weapons on campus has been reduced by more than 40%. What’s more, the cameras’ presence serves to reassure students and staff, while acting as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity.

Can you imagine just one click to enjoy the real time marvelous view from 2,064 meters height of Mountain Refugio Collado Jermoso? Thanks to the technology of Dahua’s IP camera, the distribution of IPTECNO and the installation of WOLKAM, one can now appreciate the amazing landscape, get the latest weather information and warnings of bad weathers, sent from the peak, directly on social media. At the peak of Mountain Refugio Collado Jermoso, the biggest challenge comes from the harsh weather conditions, which requires tough equipment to adapt to all extreme climates like storm, low temperature, humidity, etc. Also, the streaming solution is a big problem; for the future observation and online video, a strong streaming engine is needed to get the real time image.Powerful Optical Zoom With True WDR The Dahua camera is able to operate in extreme temperature environments from -40°C to +70 °C with 95% humidityAccording to an analysis of this situation, Dahua’s ultra-series speed dome SD65F230F-HNI seemed like an excellent option, which can provide powerful optical zoom and accurate pan/tilt/zoom, making the camera catch every angle of view. Also, with the Starlight technology, the camera is the perfect solution for both ultra-low illuminate environment and daylight. The True WDR makes the camera never afraid to face the sunlight or glare directly. Although all these technologies allow the camera to provide high quality image, the difficulty is to survive in these extremely harsh weather conditions.The Dahua camera is able to operate in extreme temperature environments from -40°C to +70 °C (-40 °F to +158 °F) with 95% humidity and the camera complies with the IK10 Vandal Resistance impact rating. Subjected to rigorous dust and water immersion tests as well as certified to the IP67 Ingress Protection rating, the camera is suitable for this project and other demanding outdoor applications.Live Video And Audio Capability The camera ran into the test at the beginning of 2018 and was used in Aemet Cantabria to get the information of avalanche risks on Picos de Europa. At that moment, the new equipment started with a huge ‘Snowfall’ that brought the first cold front of February and in a few days, accumulated more than 3 meters of snow in the area. And the camera still worked well. The cameras installed on Mountain Refugio Collado Jermoso are able to offer live video and audio on FB page or YouTube Channel For the enjoyment of all outdoor sports in the Picos de Europa National Park and the Valdeón Valley, on June 18, a series of Dahua IP cameras came into operation. The cameras installed on Mountain Refugio Collado Jermoso are able to offer live video and audio on FB page or YouTube Channel and will surely become, from now on, one of the most popular ‘live window’ of Picos de Europa, both for the enjoyment of its views and to be visually informed of the conditions and state climatology of the upper area of Valdeón Valley.Breathtaking Pictures Of SunsetsThe new angle of the camera that now faces west and over Valdeón Valley is able to observe all its magnitude; the spectacular limestone landscape that Picos de Europa offers, with the summit of Friero (2,440m) in the foreground and La Canal de la Sotín below.The most attractive pictures taken by Dahua webcam were the breathtaking sunsets that until now were reserved only for mountaineers and more experienced walkers. Meanwhile, Mountain Refugio Collado Jermoso has been reputed to offer the best sunsets in the National Park of the Picos de Europa.

Invictus, the latest ruggedised PTZ camera from UK’s CCTV manufacturer 360 Vision Technology, has been installed against a tight deadline to cover a major public event in a north London Borough. Specified for installation by DSSL Group, the new high-performance 360 Vision Technology Invictus cameras were installed in record time, to complete the upgrade of the London Borough’s Public Safety camera system in time to ensure the safe passage of a major public event - as well as to play a continuing role in the borough’s mix of public safety measures. Talking about the new town centre installation, Aaron Stephens, Director at DSSL Group commented: “From the initial decision to specify Invictus cameras for the borough’s High Street and surrounding areas, all 22 Invictus units in the first phase were delivered, installed and commissioned within four weeks.” Invictus uses an upright mount to provide unhindered 360-degree coverage" Superb Operational Results “We like the authoritative appearance of the new Invictus camera, similar in style to 360 Vision’s Predator camera, but unlike imported speed domes that look less public safety and more commercial, Invictus looks very much the part in the town centre streets. Versus the use of domes on swan necks that inherently introduce a visual blind spot, Invictus uses an upright mount to provide unhindered 360-degree coverage. In addition and again unlike a dome camera, Invictus can look both up and down.” “As highlighted in the Proof of Concept trial, the cameras’ excellent depth of autofocus is quite superb, with crystal clear focus across the entire image frame. This performance attribute is great for post event retrieval of recorded footage, where it will be used to assist the local authority in maximising their incident analysis and prosecutional evidence. It was also great to work with a respected UK manufacturer who provided on the ground technical support to help ensure the smooth delivery of this local authority project. From the superb operational results, we’d recommend Invictus to any other local authorities looking to upgrade their systems to the latest HD camera technology.” Color At Night Discussing the integration of cameras to the system’s new Genetec Video management software platform, DSSL Group’s commissioning engineer, Jordon Stephens, commented: “Adding the Invictus cameras as an ONVIF 2.4 Profile S compliant device to the Genetec Security Control Centre was extremely simple. In my experience, this process isn’t always straight forward, so the Invictus gets 10 out of 10 for easy ONVIF setup!” Jordon went on to explain that: “The cameras’ pre-set factory default night-time settings are ideal for effective color video at night. Invictus copes incredibly well with the town centre’s mix of lighting conditions and shadow areas, providing excellent ‘color at night’ imaging - whereas in the same locations, other existing HD cameras on the system had switched to monochrome.” DSSL Group’s attention to detail is phenomenal; they clearly take great pride in their workmanship" Help The Heroes Commenting on the installation, Adrian Kirk, Director at 360 Vision Technology enthused: “We are proud that the new Invictus ruggedized PTZ camera was selected for such an important town centre project and especially as the cameras were commissioned in time to provide security and safety surveillance coverage for the major public event. Manufacturing CCTV cameras in the UK since 2002, and this installation marks the introduction of 360 Vision’s next generation ultra-low light imaging technology - featuring incredibly detailed night-time HD quality colour images.” "In addition, we couldn't have asked for a better installation to showcase Invictus. DSSL Group’s attention to detail is phenomenal; they clearly take great pride in their workmanship. From the way they have contained the cable, through to the layout, neatness and set-up of system equipment, including the column equipment cabinets, the engineering team at DSSL Group really deserve great credit for their professionalism.” “Celebrating the great men and women of the British Armed Forces, for each Invictus camera sold and including those installed in this installation, 360 Vision Technology is donating a contribution to the Help the Heroes charity.”

A security system provided by Hikvision USA Inc., the North American provider of innovative, award-winning video surveillance products and solutions, was installed by Denver-based A-1 Security Systems to meet all requirements set forth by Colorado’s Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) and to ensure comprehensive security at the newly retrofitted building for 14er Gardens in Boulder, Colorado. In 2017, Evan Anderson, owner of medical marijuana company, 14er Gardens, sought out the security expertise of Sofia Aguilar, sales manager and partner at A-1 Security Systems in Denver. The two had worked on previous projects together and Anderson was about to embark on a brand new, complex building retrofit in Boulder that had been in the planning stages for nearly two years. Aguilar worked closely with Anderson and his team to design a custom, high-end Hikvision security system A-1 excels at these types of projects, mid-sized commercial with access control and surveillance needs, and Aguilar has designed and installed hundreds of Hikvision security systems at growing facilities throughout Colorado since moving from Texas in 2008 to join A-1 as a business partner. Aguilar is a member of the national board of the Electronic Security Association and a board president for the state chapter of the Colorado Burglar and Fire Alarm Association. Hikvision’s Pro Series NVRs Aguilar worked closely with Anderson and his team to design a custom, high-end Hikvision security system that deployed a total of 95 cameras for indoor and outdoor surveillance and used Hikvision’s Pro Series NVRs for storage.All of 14er gardens are indoor facilities that meticulously control growth quality of the plants. “Outdoor growing facilities do exist,” said Anderson. “But they don’t deliver the consistent product quality every month of the year. Our approach is more of a manufacturing model, versus an agricultural endeavor.” He adds that his top two most important contractors on a job are the HVAC, due to the volume of lighting required to control the climate, and the security contractor, who is critical to securing his product and overall operation. A-1 received a set of project plans and was asked to design a comprehensive Hikvision security system with high-end cameras and NVRs that met the MED storage requirements for 40 days of on- and off-site recording. Aguilar calls what she does an “art,” and said this project offered her the chance to apply her creativity to design a comprehensive surveillance system to protect Anderson’s investment. Aguilar's top two most important contractors on a job are the HVAC, due to the volume of lighting required “It’s advantageous for growers to buy or build-out larger facilities to increase production. With that comes the demand for high-end, large-scale security systems with impeccable visual quality,” said Aguilar. She adds that growers who’ve used low-end systems often experience higher rates of break-ins, and if a camera has poor image quality it means lack of clear facial features in video images to help identify culprits. The Boulder Project The Boulder project began with the complete gutting of an existing two-story building that had previously been used as office space. Renovations included the re-pouring of all concrete with a total construction investment “that cost three to four times what we paid for the building,” said Anderson. Anderson’s venture into the marijuana industry in Colorado began in 2008, before regulatory standards had been established. “We installed comprehensive security systems before it was ever required,” he said. Anderson has worked with the MED to establish best practices and guidelines for securing these types of facilities. Initially, Colorado planned to establish a central monitoring station to link IP cameras from all marijuana growers throughout the state. A third-party consultant was brought in to evaluate this proposal and due to the sheer size of the industry, determined the model would use about ten percent of the state’s total bandwidth. Following that assessment, the Colorado regulatory model for security shifted to a requirement that growers keep 40 days of on-site and 40 days of off-site video recordings per camera, although most entities keep more than that on hand, said Anderson. The Colorado regulatory model for security states that growers must keep 40 days of on-site and off-site video recordings per camera Access Security Footage Remotely “Hikvision systems and A-1 security became the standard we use to operate. The Hikvision system offers a better platform that is more affordable then prior systems we used,” said Anderson. With Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 app, Anderson can access footage on his smartphone and PC, and easily show officials what is happening at a moment’s notice.  “I was an art major with a minor in photography and worked in commercial photography for several years. My mantra is to fill the frame with the image you want,” said Aguilar. “My pet peeve is not using enough cameras to provide good facial recognition or worse, using great megapixel cameras and dumbing them down because the NVR is not powerful enough to handle the camera’s best quality.” Aguilar recommended multiple 32-channel Hikvision NVRs that are not at full capacity, in the unlikely event that a hard drive fails the remaining recorders will continue to work. “I can honestly say the Hikvision recorders have never failed,” said Aguilar. “Being a Hikvision Platinum dealer, A-1 offers a five-year warranty. We feel confident in the system we install without concern that we will need to return to a site just to repair a broken recorder.” A total of 95 security cameras were used to complete the system, with about half used indoors and the other half placed outside of the facility Increased Throughput, Larger Capacity A-1 installed the Hikvision Pro Series DS-9632NI-I8 NVRs, a 32-channel model with 48 terabytes (TB) of internal storage, providing increased throughput and larger capacity to meet MED storage requirements. Aguilar stacks the NVRs and uses an external server, which requires slightly more investment, but offers the client greater bandwidth to stream large amounts of data more quickly. In Anderson’s case, this is critical since the state of Colorado can ask to see recorded footage with little advanced notice. A total of 95 security cameras were used to complete the system, with about half used indoors and the other half placed outside of the facility for perimeter, outdoor entrance and parking lot surveillance. Indoor And Outdoor Capabilities For indoor coverage, A-1 installed Hikvision’s DS-2CD2135FWD-I 3MP Ultra-Low Light Network Dome camera to cover all rooms containing product, and all exits and entrances, which is an MED requirement. This dome camera is actually designed as an outdoor model, which Aguilar selected for indoor use because of its vandal-proof rating, weather resistance, and clear imagery during day or evening conditions. Video surveillance covers every square inch of the facility, greatly improving operational efficiency “We can turn off the IR feature in the growing area but leave it on in the hallways and other areas where it can help with image quality (trim, drying, packing, vault, etc.),” said Aguilar. “Weather resistance means no need to worry about chemicals, nutrients, misting or watering, and it is a very hot, humid environment. These are live plants that require all these things to survive and thrive like hothouse tomatoes or tropical plants. And the environment is either very brightly lit or pitch black, mimicking an outdoor environment.” In the grow rooms, lights are placed vertically and each room has rows of product with a three-foot space in between for people to walk while tending plants. A-1 placed indoor cameras at the end of product rows and at accessible wall areas to provide 360-degree coverage. The building exterior was secured using Hikvision’s DS-2CD2T55FWD-I5 Outdoor Network Bullet camera featuring 5MP of resolution, 120 dB Wide Dynamic Range and Digital Noise Reduction. Aguilar “likes the 5MP varifocal models for parking lots. I install them in crisscross fashion to provide blanket coverage with the capability to zoom in on parking lot entrances.” 24/7 Efficient Video Surveillance Video surveillance covers every square inch of the facility, greatly improving operational efficiency. “The system is great! I can watch my guys at all times from anywhere,” said Anderson. Surveillance cameras record non-stop, 24 hours a day, seven days a week since MED requirements do not allow motion-activated recording. Surveillance cameras record non-stop, 24 hours a day, seven days a week since MED requirements do not allow motion-activated recording To install the system, A-1 had to overcome challenges associated with an older concrete building that was “built like a bunker” with an architectural accent bar along the roof perimeter. The constraint required them to pipe and core drill through exterior concrete and run wires through conduits or O-rings that were hammer-drilled into the seams every four feet. The entire Boulder facility is run through a mobile platform. “This project involved a new level of detail and control compared with our previous projects and is a fully-automated monster,” said Anderson. “At our last facility, we had seven growers. The Boulder facility is four times as big as the last one and we only need two growers due to extensive automation.” 14er moved from physical-based labor to web-based controls. User-Friendly Remote Viewing The Hikvision iVMS-4200 platform helps 14er with automation by providing better integration, reduced cost and user-friendly remote viewing. “Older systems were built more for an IT or security systems expert, not for clients to have a convenient system they could easily use,” said Anderson. “Hikvision’s iVMS platform helps us keep impeccable records of everything in the cloud, so when the state of Colorado contacts us for immediate access to recordings, we can easily provide them.” A-1 helped to develop standards for video surveillance and storage that have become industry best practice “Achieving the MED-required 40 days of on-site and off-site recordings is a big deal,” said Sofia Aguilar, sales manager and partner at A-1 Security. "With the Hikvision iVMS system they were able to build a platform around Hikvision products, solving the state’s problem of how to record at a reasonable price.” Hikvision worked with technology partner byRemote to develop software that utilizes Hikvision’s iVMS product to record off-site, said Aguilar. “Customers wanted higher-end systems without the cost associated with the old encoders,” said Aguilar. “The Hikvision partnership with byRemote offered exactly what the market demanded.” Powerful Video Security System  Aguilar initially had reservations about marijuana as a vertical focus for A-1 Security Systems, believing it was too high-risk and if grower’s operations were shut down, A-1 would quickly lose its customer base. Eventually her business partner, Leif Wulforst, convinced her that marijuana was a viable business. A-1 helped to develop standards for video surveillance and storage that have become industry best practice. Cultivating a relationship with growers such as Anderson from 14er gardens led to the development of a surveillance system that met strict MED storage regulations while providing ease of viewing for end users and the state regulatory body. Hikvision’s high resolution security cameras combined with its Pro Series NVRs in delivering a high performing solution at an affordable price to help the market thrive.

  The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Arizona, hosts more than 300,000 guests each year to view its collection of more than 13,000 instruments and associated objects, and to attend live performances in the MIM Music Theater. As the world’s only global musical instrument museum, MIM creates an exciting experience for guests, immersing them in cultural traditions from around the world. With a mission to collect, preserve, and make accessible an astonishing variety of musical instruments and performance videos from every country in the world, MIM offers guests a welcoming and fun experience throughout the day with multiple live evening performances each week. The safety and security of visitors and staff and the protection of the museum’s extensive collection is an essential aspect of fulfilling its mission. The safety and security of visitors and staff is an essential aspect of fulfilling the museum's mission To enhance the security of its exterior spaces, the museum recently worked with IES Communications, a nationwide provider of integrated security solutions, to upgrade its outdoor surveillance system. Now, a combination of Bosch AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD, FLEXIDOME IP starlight 6000 VR, and AUTODOME IP 5000 IR cameras provide high-quality images of the museum’s outdoor areas, which include an impressive courtyard at the main entrance, an additional courtyard at the student entry, an outdoor café and seating area for guests, as well as special events, and two parking lots. Full-Color Night Images Bosch cameras with starlight technology provide clear images regardless of lighting conditions, delivering full-color images in the dark beyond the point where other cameras turn to monochrome images. Supported by new exterior LED lights, the Bosch starlight cameras at the museum produce full-color images throughout the night. The intelligent cameras also feature built-in video analytics to alert the museum’s security operators to possible risks, such as detecting objects left behind or the gathering of large crowds that may create congestion in an area. With Intelligent Tracking, AUTODOME IP starlight 7000 HD cameras can also automatically track objects of interest as they move throughout a scene. “The low light performance of the Bosch starlight cameras is completely unmatched. They are producing beautiful color images all through the night,” said David Burger, security manager at the Musical Instrument Museum. The cameras also feature built-in video analytics to alert the museum’s security operators to possible risks, such as detecting objects left behind In addition, Bosch AUTODOME IP 5000 IR cameras are strategically placed in perimeter and other areas of the museum exterior where there is limited lighting at night. These pan-tilt-zoom cameras feature a built-in intelligent IR beam that ensures optimum illumination of objects regardless of the level of zoom. “The quality of the images, the onboard video analytics that are included without an additional cost, and the reliability of the moving cameras were key factors in our decision,” continued Burger. “Our security operators are thrilled with the quality and operation of the cameras.” Long Distance Data Delivery One challenge with the installation was how to deliver data from the security cameras over long distances between remote locations and the head-end network switches and servers. After receiving recommendations from IES Communications and Bosch, the museum selected Altronix’s PaceTM Long-Range Ethernet Solutions. Utilizing a Pace8PRM multi-port receiver at the headend, along with Pace1ST transceivers at each device, the museum successfully deployed the Bosch high-resolution IP cameras beyond the standard Ethernet range of 100 meters. Using existing CAT6 cable, Pace transmits Ethernet data at 100Mbps at distances of up to 500 meters, which exceeded the museum‘s requirements.The design of the solutions are rugged enough to handle the intense heat and other weather conditions With the Altronix Pace solution, the museum did not need to replace existing cabling, which delivered a cost savings for the overall project without sacrificing performance. It also provided a higher return on the museum’s initial infrastructure investment. “We are definitely pleased with the ease of use of the Altronix Pace system,” Burger said. “It’s a completely plug-and-play system. It works great with all of our existing network equipment and infrastructure. It was pretty seamless for us to achieve integration with the new Bosch cameras.” Real-Time Video Monitoring In addition, said Burger, the design of the Altronix Pace solution is rugged enough to handle the intense heat and other weather conditions related to Arizona’s weather and climate. “It speaks to the quality of the manufacturers: both Altronix and Bosch,” added Burger. Video throughout the exterior and interior of the museum is monitored around the clock by utilizing Security Center from Genetec. Real-time monitoring allows museum staff to proactively address possible risks, as they are happening, to enhance overall security and safety at the museum.