Security devices

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

Security professionals working to provide the appropriate level of security and safety in schools need not just the right training but also the correct products. To provide the most robust product offerings for schools, ASSA ABLOY has partnered with School Guard Glass to develop complete attack-resistant door openings that comply with the 5-aa10 test standards recommended by the FBI’s Active Shooter Report. These attack-resistant openings are economically designed using hollow metal door and frame construction with accompanying ASSA ABLOY hardware. This ensures maximum security without sacrificing usability or aesthetics. Further, the solution ensures you never sacrifice fire and life safety as a result of implementing dangerous secondary locking devices. Withstands Intense Physical Attack The attack resistant openings are rigorously tested to ensure they can withstand an intense four-minute physical attack with the use of hand tools and after being shot 60 times with 7.62 NATO rounds. While the door or glass may not stop a bullet from penetrating the opening, the attack-resistant door assembly will remain intact so as to prevent an attacker from breaching the opening. "Protecting the students, faculty and staff in our communities across the country is a core commitment we at ASSA ABLOY share with all schools," said Ron Baer, Director of Business Development - K-12 at ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions. "Deploying an opening that can withstand and repel a physical assault is a simple, affordable solution that makes schools safer from the moment they are installed."

Customers want services. Services that add convenience, simple control and easy management of all their security devices. With Connect ONE by Connected Technologies LLC, it’s easy to add the new services that one may not have thought about or assumed were too difficult to add. Connect ONE is a cloud-hosted integrated security management platform that bundles intrusion, access control, video surveillance, energy management and critical environmental monitoring in one single user interface that controls them all simply and conveniently. CheckPoint Tours Tracks Tasks And Facility Activity CheckPoint Tours, the latest service from Connect ONE, provides real-time recordkeeping that security guards have completed their rounds or employees have performed required or mandated tasks at the premises. As the user scans/swipes each checkpoint their access is logged and can be reviewed. Paired with ScanPass Mobile Credential, it makes tracking activities uncomplicated. ScanPass does not require any wiring and users affix a barcode sticker at the places they want to make sure are visited, using a smartphone to scan the barcode to determine if the tour is being performed properly. Notifications can be sent if tours are not completed on designated time schedules. It can also be integrated with surveillance to take a snapshot of the person to identify authorized personnel conducting the tours. Multiple checkpoints can be added economically by using only ScanPass barcode stickers in place of card readers and additional hardware. Connect ONE services add tangible value for the end-user customer and the business in the way of new RMR streams.

Most technology companies have one goal in mind: to provide customers with high-quality, affordable products that can efficiently help streamline operations. Whether it's surveillance cameras, video management software, access control technology or any other type of security device, today's leading organizations invest in expertise in these product segments and strive to produce the highest quality solutions. To effectively fulfill this task, technology providers are always searching for emerging components to make their products and services even stronger. Oftentimes, a key aspect necessary to build a comprehensively robust solution involves finding like-minded partners that share a common goal and are willing to work together to create an integration that increases insight and intelligence.The interoperability between systems, devices and different types of applications should be intuitive and fast Key Factors For Security Integrations A basic factor in a partnership is openness. For an integration to perform seamlessly for the end user, the platform through which the technologies converge must follow standard protocols, easily operate with other platforms, allow freedom and customization, and provide adaptability. The interoperability between systems, devices and different types of applications should be intuitive and fast, enabling more time to be spent on analyzing critical data and responding to security events. The puzzle of a complete security solution contains many pieces, and it's often necessary to fuse together aspects from various providers to create a best-in-breed technology offering. When organizations collaborate, the end result is a simplified solution with an increased level of value. As threats become more severe and complex, customers demand solutions that combine different security and business elements into a single interface that can address a wide variety of risks.  A unified security system requires a strong collaboration between technology providers and integrated solutions Interconnected Security Devices Users used to only look at specific security devices - such as cameras or door alarms - as each having a strong, autonomous purpose, but now, every device plays an important interconnected role. And the progression of the Internet of Things (IoT) has made this transition even easier, as maintaining a consistent and uniform communication and interconnectivity between devices has now become the norm. The IoT has also made it so that partnerships must not only exist between manufacturers, but also within the customer's organizational structure. Although exceptionally beneficial, the IoT brings with it an increased amount of cyber vulnerabilities. As security systems are networked to increase flexibility, the door is opened to a number of potential threats that could compromise the entire enterprise. This risk highlights the need for an internal partnership and knowledge sharing between a company's physical security professionals and its IT team. IT experts should be pulled into security decisions and positioned as collaborative partners to assist with software updates, data safety protocols and solving complex network challenges, ultimately leading to a more cyber secure solution.Partnerships are beneficial to both the companies involved and their customers Knowledge Sharing And Learning Aside from cybersecurity, the latest prominent security attacks and events have focused primarily on soft targets, such as schools, concerts or shopping malls. This has caused many technology providers to venture into different vertical markets, and strong partnerships streamline this crossover. Innovators can extend their geographic reach and purpose through integrations with other like-minded manufacturers or integrators to add new levels of functionalities. Of course, a partnership cannot operate properly and to the best of its ability without a core component: learning. In today's evolving business and risk environment, knowledge is critical. A shared knowledge base can open up new opportunities and lead to the strengthening of security across many levels. A truly powerful, unified security system requires a strong collaboration between technology providers and integrated solutions. Partnerships are beneficial to both the companies involved and their customers, and the results created through these alliances can reach far beyond a user's expectations, offering enhanced flexibility and extensive safety options.

As Internet of Things (IoT) devices go, networked video cameras are particularly significant. Connected to the internet and using on-board processing, cameras are subject to infection by malware and can be targeted by Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Hacking of cameras also threatens privacy by allowing unauthorized access to video footage. The performance of hacked cameras can be degraded, and they may become unable to communicate properly when needed. Ensuring cybersecurity is a challenge, and the fragmented structure of the video surveillance market contributes to that challenge. A variety of companies are involved in manufacturing, integrating, installing and operating video systems, and cybersecurity threats can enter the picture at any stage. “It’s not always clear who is responsible,” says Yotam Gutman, vice president of marketing for SecuriThings, a cybersecurity company. “However, the only entities who can ensure cybersecurity are the security integrator and the service provider. They will bear the financial pain and are willing to pay for cybersecurity. An extra $1 or $2 per camera per month is not expensive.” SecuriThings’ “lightweight software agent” runs in the background of video cameras, sending information to an analytics system in the cloud IoT Device Security Management At the recent IFSEC trade show in London, SecuriThings unveiled its IoT Device Security Management (IDSM) approach to enable integrators to ensure cybersecurity. Founded in 2015, the company has around 20 employees in Tel Aviv, Israel, and operates a sales office in New York City. SecuriThings’ “lightweight software agent” runs in the background of video cameras, collecting metadata on camera processes and connections and sending information back to an analytics system in the cloud. Drag-and-drop deployment enables a camera to begin generating data within seconds and requiring only two mouse clicks. The cloud system analyzes data, pinpoints abnormalities, identifies new users, detects multiple entry attempts and tracks other camera processes to identify any cyberattacks. It monitors all devices, gateways, users and APIs to detect threats in real-time and mitigate the threats based on a pre-determined security policy. Machine learning tools also analyze more subtle activities that can indicate insider abuse. For example, a user support center can identify if cameras are being accessed improperly by employees, thus preventing insider abuse. Certified Vendor Agnostic Software SecuriThings is working with camera manufacturers and video management system (VMS) manufacturers to certify operation of its software agents with various camera models and systems. Working through integrators, such as Johnson Controls, is the fastest route to market, SecuriThings has determined. The system can be added after the fact to existing installations for immediate monitoring and remediation, or it can easily be incorporated into new systems as they are launched. “We have a strong sales team in the United States focusing on bringing the technology to more local and national integrators,” says Gutman. Certification ensures SecuriThings’ software agent can be installed in most modern camera models without negatively impacting operation; the software is vendor agnostic. Another eventual route to market is to work with camera manufacturers to install the SecuriThings software agent in cameras at the factory. In this scenario, the system can easily be “clicked on” when cameras are installed. The SecuriThings cloud system generates a dashboard that tracks system activities to identify any cybersecurity threats IoT Security Operations Center SecuriThings operation is transparent to the VMS, and the company works with VMS manufacturers to ensure the code operates seamlessly with their systems. Cloud analytics generate a dashboard that tracks system activities, and/or a managed service monitors the system and notifies customers if there is a problem. “We monitor it from our IoT Security Operations Center, a fully managed service that ensures the real-time detection and mitigation of IoT cyber-threats,” says Gutman. “We found that end-customers don’t have the manpower to monitor the system, so our experts can guide them.”Access control and cloud-based access control will be the next systems under cyberattack, and they are almost as vulnerable" A benefit for camera manufacturers is the ability of a system like SecuriThings to “level the playing field” on issues of cybersecurity, says Gutman. The approach provides a higher level of cybersecurity confidence for integrators and users, including those using cameras that have previously had cybersecurity problems such as “back door” access. SecuriThings has certified its software for use with Hikvision cameras and is in the process of certifying with Dahua, says Gutman. “Western manufacturers say their products are more secure, but we can help all camera manufacturers prove that they are just as secure,” says Gutman. “Integrators and users can log into a device and see all the activity.” Securing Connected Devices From Cyber Threats Beyond video, SecuriThings’ products target the full range of connected devices in the Internet of Things (IoT). The SecuriThings security solution enables real-time visibility and control of IoT devices deployed in massive numbers in smart cities, physical security, building automation, home entertainment and more. Video surveillance is an early focus because of market need, an opportunity to gain traction, and the critical nature of security applications. But the challenges are much broader than video surveillance. “We are seeing similar risks to other devices,” says Gutman. “Access control and cloud-based access control will be the next systems under cyberattack, and they are almost as vulnerable. If you can disable the access control system, you can cause a lot of problems.” Other connected devices that could be at risk include building automation and heating and cooling (HVAC) systems.

Hospitality businesses work to provide a safe and pleasant customer experience for their guests. Hotels offer a “home away from home” for millions of guests every day around the world. These are businesses of many sizes and types, providing services ranging from luxury accommodations to simple lodging for business travelers to family vacation experiences. Hospitality businesses also include restaurants, bars, movie theaters and other venues. Security needs are varied and require technologies that span a wide spectrum. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of the hospitality market?

As an innovator in airport security, Oakland International Airport (OAK) announced that it has installed the Evolv Edge, a physical threat detection and prevention system powered by artificial intelligence, to streamline its employee screening program. This installation enhances OAK’s security posture by protecting against metallic and non-metallic threats while simultaneously improving operational efficiency. Physical Threat Detection System OAK is committed to applying advanced, innovative solutions to complex security operations OAK is committed to applying advanced, innovative solutions to complex security operations. The TSA acknowledged this commitment by selecting OAK as a TSA Innovation Site, a prestigious distinction that promotes improved efficiency and allows the airport to try technologies to benefit its growing passenger and employee base. As the second busiest airport in northern California, passenger travel at OAK is on pace to surpass the 13.2 million travelers that passed through the airport last year. To accommodate this growth, more and more employees are being hired to work at OAK. Therefore, OAK began researching innovative solutions related to employee inspection methods and equipment. Evolv Edge provides OAK with the ability to screen employees for metallic and non-metallic threats with a fast, non-invasive process. Designed with built-in wheels for portability, OAK can easily move the system throughout the airport allowing maximum efficiency for its employee inspection program. Non-Invasive Employee Screening With Edge, organizations, such as OAK, can adapt a risk-based security approach while balancing security with positive experience With this installation, OAK continues to be at the forefront of security through its use of modern technologies to combat today’s evolving threat landscape. By replacing traditional physical screenings with Evolv Edge’s precision, mobility and multi-threat detection capabilities, OAK can control access and respond to different threat scenarios quickly and efficiently. With Edge, organizations, such as OAK, can adapt a risk-based security approach while balancing security with positive experience. “With today’s threat landscape, the security perimeter has expanded beyond traditional checkpoints,” said Mike Ellenbogen, CEO of Evolv Technology and a 20-year veteran in aviation security. “Evolv Edge’s flexibility and portability provides Oakland International Airport with an added layer of security when it comes to employee screening. Oakland International Airport is always at the forefront of innovation, and we will continue working closely with their team to ensure success and safety.”

As one of the largest IT companies in Scandinavia, EVRY provides comprehensive computing, IT consulting, and business solutions to Nordic companies, financial institutions, public sector entities, and health authorities. While security at EVRY facilities is paramount, so is maintaining a leadership brand and accommodating a high flow of staff and visitors. Boon Edam Security Doors Entrances of EVRY facilities must provide a high level of security given the value and sensitivity of the work they do, as well as the presence of clients’ intellectual property and other data. Management was looking for entry designs that would not only provide a secure entry way, but would also display excellence in design, innovation and quality – elevating and supporting the overall perception of the firm for both staff and visitors. The EVRY security team quickly zeroed in on Boon Edam as a premium entrance provider. When they heard that many Boon Edam entrances could be customized to meet aesthetic objectives or to match desired colors and finishes, they were compelled to come and see the samples in person. Bravida System Integrator Bravida, the system integrator who installed the Lifeline Speedlane Swing speed gates integrated them with cutting-edge access control technology Bravida, the system integrator who installed the Lifeline Speedlane Swing speed gates integrated them with cutting-edge access control technology that communicated with security personnel. The combination of this physical and technological access control delivered a highly effective solution that met EVRY’s needs for both staff and visitor access control. “The reception area of an IT company like EVRY was an ideal application for the Lifeline Swing speed gates,” explains Daan Van Beusekom, Product Manager Security Access, Royal Boon Edam. “The sleek, high-tech design of the turnstiles support EVRY’s brand positioning, and they provide a high-throughput, secure solution that meet EVRY’s demanding access requirements. The turnstiles also integrate with leading access control systems, making it easy to tie them in with EVRY’s existing security strategies and systems.” Lifeline Speedlane Swing Speed Gates The Lifeline Speedlane Swing speed gates are available in a wide selection of dimensional and glass choices to support a range of needs, such as higher security levels or disabled access. It features a slim form factor that creates an almost invisible gateway – instantly conveying an impression of sleek design that is reinforced by futuristic light pulses that guide user actions. Available in a range of colors and finishes, it can be customized to blend in or stand out, depending on the need for the installation.

IDF Aluminium installs doors and internal screenwork at the new headquarters of iconic sportswear brand Fred Perry in Clerkenwell, London. The work includes use of transom door closers, pole handles and door handles from Alpro as part of the renovation of nineteenth-century warehouse buildings into a complex of offices, showrooms, exhibition space and a rooftop deck over 24,000 square feet. The project extends across seven floors and the client gave all contractors a brief that the site should benefit from robust security but preserve a welcoming atmosphere and an aesthetic that respected the fabric of the original Victorian warehouses. Overhead Transom Closers Alpro’s overhead transom closers provide a means of hydraulically controlling the opening and closing of aluminum doors and can have light, medium or heavy spring strengths to suit type of usage, with a 90-degree hold-open option. Transom closers are well suited for use at industrial heritage buildings such as the Fred Perry premises since the alternative options of spring hinges and floor springs often present problems with adjustment flexibility. The IDF installation also includes Alpro’s Functional 98 Series pull door handles on internal doors. These are manufactured from 316-grade stainless steel and can be straight or offset. The handles are supplied with bolt-thru or back-to-back fixings as standard and powder or nylon-coated finishes to the user’s precise color requirements. In this case a powder finish was chosen to match the framework. IDF Aluminium ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors Quality Service The Fred Perry base is located on the corner of Mount Pleasant Street and Warner Street opposite the former Mount Pleasant sorting office. The many considerations for architects BuckleyGrayYeoman included preserving an iconic façade and working round plaques commemorating damage suffered by the building during World-War-II bombing. The interior fit-out including m & e systems was by Overbury and the base build contractor was Willmott Dixon. The new space was prepared to a demanding four-month deadline. IDF Aluminium specializes in the design, manufacture and installation of aluminum doors. The door solutions are designed for use in commercial and public-sector environments where usage may be high but maintenance costs must be minimized. The company has 30 years’ experience in the shop front and commercial door market. IDF Aluminium ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors. The client portfolio covers transport, local government, healthcare and education from schools through to universities. This is IDF’s second heritage architecture project using Alpro equipment and follows works at Henry Wood House, a former BBC property in Marylebone.

Videotec has extended its range of cameras that include the new DELUX imaging and encoding technology. It can now be found in models designed for surveillance in the Marine and Oil & Gas sectors, and significantly improves the day and night vision and competitiveness of these products.  DELUX Imaging And Encoding Technology After recently being integrated into the ULISSE COMPACT PTZ, DELUX technology is now available across the IP, PTZ and fixed cameras of the ex-proof and Marine lines, namely the MAXIMUS MPX, MVX AND NXPTZ. These models are well regarded on the market for their high-performance levels and operational efficiency in extreme environments and where there is a risk of explosion. DELUX technology brings increased light sensitivity, which means the cameras deliver very high-quality vision during the day or night, with clear high-definition images and incredibly well-defined colours – even in very low light conditions. The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications Day/Night Surveillance The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications, especially in sensitive areas where the need to identify people, objects, moving vehicles and other events, day or night, is crucial. In addition to improved color rendering and greater noise reduction, DELUX technology has brought new advanced PTZ performance, namely in the control of speed proportional to zoom and the management of Privacy Masking. High-Performance Solutions The DELUX technology has been developed end-to-end by Videotec’s R&D team and this has led to considerable reductions to the costs of these new camera models. Videotec’s DELUX products are therefore extremely competitive, and are complete high-performance solutions, reinforcing their prominent position in an increasingly demanding and selective international security market.

The Palacio de Congresos, celebrating its 20th anniversary, is a state-of-the-art conference and exhibition center in the heart of Valencia, Spain. Also known as the Palace of Light, due to its glass-fronted façade and distinctive roof design, the Palacio regularly accommodates large-scale international conferences organized by multinationals, trade associations and government organizations. Most events gravitate around the main auditorium with room for up to 1,481 participants, as well as smaller auditoria with capacities for 467 and 270 people. If needed, an IP-based video and audio network can connect up to 2,250 participants across these separate conference rooms. Bosch - DICENTIS Conference System Given the international character of most of the conferences it hosts, simultaneous interpretation is essential at the Palacio. The building management sought a solution that would take this into account, along with the facility’s existing architecture and infrastructure. Two of its three auditoria are equipped with fixed interpreter booths. Although the smallest auditorium and the conference center’s ten smaller meeting rooms do not include interpreter booths, simultaneous interpretation is also often required in these spaces. It was also important that the new conferencing system would not require any additional investment for wiring or cable connections. The OMNEO Interface allows transportation of the language channels via the IT network from the auditoria with fixed interpreter booths The DICENTIS Conference System from Bosch provided the perfect solution. Because the system is IP-based and Ethernet compatible, the existing IT infrastructure of the Palacio de Congresos could be used. The OMNEO Interface allows transportation of the language channels via the IT network from the auditoria with fixed interpreter booths to the meeting areas that don’t have these facilities. DICENTIS streams the language channels from the interpreter desks to the DICENTIS Conference devices in the main auditoria, and also to all the active conference devices in the Palacio’s smaller meeting areas. The floor languages of the active conference devices, regardless of their location, are streamed back to the interpreter desks. Mobile Installation To serve the smaller meeting areas, the DICENTIS central equipment is installed in a small mobile rack for easy transportation and setup. Additionally, the DICENTIS Conference devices with channel selector can be transported from one room to another in specially made, high-quality, lightweight and sturdy cases for protection during transit. The mobile rack simply connects to the room’s IT network plug to connect to the equipment in the various meeting rooms. This smart, mobile DICENTIS solution meets the requirements of all the meetings held in the Palacio de Congresos. The capacity for simultaneous interpretation in all the meeting areas means 2,250 participants can be connected across all conference areas big and small.

With about 5,000 visitors circulating through its facilities every day, the Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya needed to strengthen its video surveillance system. The Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya receives celebrities from all over the world, including couples celebrating anniversaries and families enjoying their vacation. The property covers 37 hectares and can host up to 3,800 guests in its 1,264 bedrooms. Additionally, several events are held at the hotel, from concerts to private celebrations, making the hotel a very crowded place. 5,000 visitors circulating through its facilities every day, the Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya needed to strengthen its video surveillance  Outdated Security System During those busy periods, the amount of people walking through the hotel really underlined the fact that the old security system was unable to monitor certain areas of the property, as there were only 16 cameras installed. Out of those 16 cameras, only 12 worked properly, which diminished this luxury property’s capacity to react to any incident captured by its outdated security system. With such large amounts of people walking through the hotel, ensuring effective and comprehensive security surveillance monitoring was becoming a big issue, one that needed to be resolved. For that reason, three years ago the hotel decided to invest in better security, so that its guests would not just feel comfortable, but also safe, especially those visitors arriving with expensive goods or with privacy requirements. In the analysis of the property, Julio Herrera López (security manager at the Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya), along with his team, evaluated the security conditions at the hotel and invited integrators to propose solutions. Out of the proposals submitted, equipment from Hikvision was chosen because the system fitted the parameters of the hotel’s project perfectly. Another factor in favor of the world’s leading supplier in video surveillance and security solutions was their favorable warranty terms. Out of the proposals submitted, equipment from Hikvision was chosen  Installation Process The installation process of the new security system was developed in phases. In the first stage, 89 Hikvision cameras were mounted. Later, 30 additional units were installed and currently, the hotel has 324 EXIR Series IP cameras, two DS-9664NI-I8 NVRs and two DS-96256NI-F16 NVRs, and one 4-channel video wall. With the new Hikvision surveillance system now installed, the hotel can effectively monitor common areas, entrances, sectors with high flow of personnel and areas dedicated to hosting events, as well as external hotel areas. With the support of the new cameras it has been possible to protect 349 invaluable objects, including the ‘Memorabilia’ collection displaying celebrities’ items. These items include a guitar and a jacket from Elvis Presley, drums from Aerosmith and Matchbox Twenty, guitars from The Police and Bon Jovi (who starred in the inaugural concert at the hotel), and articles from Black Sabbath and the Rolling Stones. In the first stage, 89 Hikvision cameras were mounted Guest Satisfaction Some guests have also expressed their satisfaction about the fact that thanks to the coverage of the security cameras, the hotel has the capability to avoid losses of guests’ belongings. “The challenge was to implement a system with the most up to date security technology,” says Gilberto Rocha, Operations Manager at Opcom, the systems integrator in charge of the project. “We installed a 10Km optical fiber trunk network for optimum video fidelity, which makes this project the first of its kind to use such an amount of Hikvision only IP cameras.” Video Surveillance System “Thanks to this video surveillance system we can be aware of any event happening at the hotel, so for example, we can provide timely first aid when required, or keep an eye on children and our hotel staff to make sure they are safe. Similarly, we can react to any disturbance in our premises. The new security system has remarkably improved security at the hotel and we are now also able to record evidence of any situations or accidents that occur,” says Herrera López. With this camera solution, the hotel’s 106 strong security team is able to monitor 2,300 hotel staff and 3,800 guests that occupy the hotel on a normal day, and if is necessary, up to 4,500 visitors during special events, such as concerts. With this camera solution, the hotel’s 106 strong security team is able to monitor 2,300 hotel staff Hikvision Equipment According to Herrera López, “Hikvision has worked hand in hand with the hotel from the very moment the installation of the system began. Engineers from the company traveled to Mexico to supervise the operation of the security system. At the same time, integrator Opcom were prompt to provide any assistance required by the hotel.” The Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya is so satisfied with the performance of the new system, that Hikvision equipment has been chosen for the security system for the Wood Ward Campsite, which is due to open soon, as well as for the Único Hotel. This establishment is currently under construction and located less than 15km from Tulum, in Kantenah beach (Riviera Maya). Following the parameters of the video surveillance system and monitoring model deployed at the Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya, 164 cameras will be installed at the Único Hotel.