Surveillance software

Installations around the world by Ultimate Visual Solutions (UVS) have completed more than one million hours of uninterrupted operation since COVID-19 lockdown began in March. The security video wall technology experts currently have almost 250 installations in 18 countries, ranging from the UK and US to Vietnam and Tanzania. UVS Managing Director Steve Murphy said all the sites had operated continuously since lockdown began in March. The company, based in Burney, launched a full suite of remote service access and online demonstration services to help clients during the coronavirus outbreak. Video wall technology Murphy added: “The services are designed to provide peace of mind and support for key operational video wall technology but the reliability of our installs has meant there have been no major issues. As part of our customer service, we have also dealt with a number of service queries for example, one client had an issue with a Windows update. These were all efficiently dealt with by either phone support or via remote connection support and in one case a short onsite visit.” Remote services The suite of remote services offered by UVS includes: Remote diagnostics and remote maintenance for UVS video wall technology which can offer quick analysis and resolution for most issues  UVS engineers using remote connection software, which is fully encrypted and which the client has control over, to carry out maintenance  For sites where the video wall controller does not normally have an internet connection, UVS is offering to supply a 4G data dongle as part of the contract (managed and paid for by UVS) to allow clients to give internet access as required  Assisting clients with reduced cost annual maintenance contracts  A live online demonstration facility to provide full video wall technology evaluations for partners and their clients who are in lockdown or self-isolation Technology which visitors can see in operation includes video wall solutions, displays, video wall controllers, control software, integrated VMS (video management systems for security applications) AV over IP and KVM remote access options. Audio visual solutions UVS, which has its headquarters at Business First Burnley Business Center, provides video wall displays and audio visual solutions to a range of clients across the UK and the rest of the world. It is led by four senior colleagues who, between them, have more than 70 years’ combined Audio Visual, Control Room and Visual Solutions experience. It has also opened a new London demonstration venue at Woburn Place, a short walk from Euston Station, to cope with increased demand for its technology.

FelenaSoft announced the release of Xeoma software version capable of detecting people that are or are not wearing protective facial masks. With the start of the pandemic a facial mask has become an essential part of the everyday life and an integral element of the safety rules in many governments. Thanks to current technological advances, cutting-edge solutions like Xeoma can aid humanity in the struggle. Xeoma’s Mask Detector is a fully automated, artificial intelligence-powered feature designed to detect people who are not wearing facial masks and who are thus putting surrounding people at risk. It can also work in reverse order (detect people in masks) - for example, for statistics purposes. The authorized personnel will be automatically notified (via email/SMS) upon detection of people who do not have facial masks on, which allows to react promptly to the threat of spreading the virus. Neural network mechanisms Features like Mask Detector alone can significantly reduce the number of cases of non-compliance Moreover, video and photo evidence of all detected cases of disobedience to government safety rules will be retained for the specified amount of time on- or off-premises, or even mailed to the authorized official. Using artificial intelligence and neural network mechanisms for face recognition, the module cannot just spot, but also identify the offender. Connected to fine-imposing systems, it can be a part of a complex solution that helps detect, identify and punish the rule-breaker. The inevitability of punishment has accumulative snowballing effect slowly turning the system's type from “post-incident” into “proactive”. Features like Mask Detector alone can significantly reduce the number of cases of non-compliance to safety rules and restrain the spread of COVID-19. But Xeoma has a lot more to offer. Ensure compliance with safety regulations The onset of the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in enforcing the law regarding the allowed number of people staying within a confined area. Xeoma’s Visitors Counter module helps automatically count the number of people leaving or entering the monitored area. Xeoma's AI-powered Color Recognition module can be used as a Fever Detector and greatly facilitate the process of spotting people with elevated body temperature or even mild fever. No need to have a staff member standing at the entrance with a thermometer gun, risking their lives every day, every hour any more. Allow the tireless machine vision do the job. Also, this module can be used alongside thermal cameras that enhances fever detection even more. During the pandemic the feature of recognizing people using Face Recognition is especially demanded to detect ones flouting safety regulations. Video surveillance solutions The solution encompasses many of the required tools and features to ensure safety during this challenging time Xeoma offers a digital solution to this request: its Face Recognition module uses artificial intelligence and neural networks to identify the person in sight with better accuracy. Social distancing has been proven to be one of the simplest and most effective precaution measures standing in the way of spreading the virus. Xeoma's Social Distance module is coming soon to detect the break of the allowed physical distancing between people. With Xeoma, the users don’t need to buy a lot of separate devices or solutions. The solution encompasses many of the required tools and features to ensure health and safety during this challenging time. Video surveillance means safety. Safety means life. Powerful video analytics that video surveillance solutions like Xeoma can provide are a sign that video surveillance systems have jumped from simple camera feed storing utilities to effective tools in marketing, business, policing, and process automation. AI-Powered Video Analytics Xeoma’s module emotions detector recognises eight emotional states (sadness, joy, surprise, disgust, fear, anger, neutral) which helps business owners know customers better and tailor the offers to meet the needs of target audience. More information can be known from the Age and Gender Recognizers to get demographic statistics in reports or in real time. These modules will help to create a perfect advertising strategy that hits the target. Detection of helmets automatically carries out an estimation of whether or not the necessary safety gear elements are present at a construction site. Reduce the number of accidents, protect the workers by helping them comply with safety regulations - simply, fully automated, affordably. Automatize routine processes Developed for over 10 years now, Xeoma is the front-liner software for video surveillance Detection of forgotten or missing objects can be of use in safe storage to trigger alarms in case valuables are approached to or missing; or in stations (railroad, sea, airports) for the system to automatically detect an unattended item even in spite of the constant flow of people around. Xeoma has over 100 of features, including over 30 modules that provide intelligent and flexible video analytics. It can help automatize routine processes, save on staff, reduce losses and increase profits. More features are added regularly. Developed for over 10 years now, Xeoma is the front-liner software for video surveillance. Responding to needs and challenges of users from all around the globe, it is compatible with nearly all camera models and operating systems. 3D multimedia spheres The solution offers simple interface, affordable pricing policy with no hidden costs, flexible setup to adjust to the user’s goals, coupled with advanced analytics and fast high-quality support team. With over 15 years of experience in video surveillance, video editing, 3D multimedia spheres, Felenasoft has developed trendsetting solutions for various industries, from retail to governmental organizations. Xeoma can be synchronized with access control systems, security systems and alarms, smart home devices and smart traffic management, and it is not even its full potential. All of the user’s needs can be met in Xeoma, whether they only opt for simple recording or they are willing to build their own cloud service.

Panasonic is introducing the new i-PRO logo to its security cameras in the European market, starting with the newly launched X-Series of network security cameras with built-in AI capabilities. The i-PRO concept marks a new era and direction of flexible security products while underlining the established Panasonic brand values of innovation, image and product quality, and mission-critical reliability for low total cost of ownership of CCTV installations. i-PRO The centerpiece of the branding, the Nexus, symbolizes the central role i-PRO is taking in empowering customers by providing the information they need to make decisions. It is made up of a series of nodes — representing the raw data that i-PRO solutions capture and that underpin the critical insights which drive customers’ actions in the moments that matter. “Through the innovative use of technologies, we will extend our capabilities to provide vital information and intelligence to support those professionals who protect and save lives, providing a safer and more peaceful world,” said Norio Hitsuishi, Executive Officer and Director of Global Surveillance at Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Co., Ltd. Network security cameras The new i-PRO X-Series of network security cameras is the first example of this solutions approach making them ideal for the next generation of intelligent applications in business and society. With its built-in AI capabilities and open Software Development Kit, the camera range is designed for third party application development that can be tailored to a business customer’s needs. “In today’s fast-moving world, we need to be proactive with our security technology to focus on prevention rather than simply utilizing video as evidence following an incident,” said Gerard Figols, European Head of the Panasonic Security Business Unit. “By listening closely to our customers and working with our partners to develop security solutions to predict and meet their needs, our goal is to become the trusted next-generation security solutions provider.”

Arcules, globally renowned provider of unified, intelligent security-as-a-service solutions, has announced that its Arcules-XProtect Hybrid VMS solution has been selected as the winner in the service-based solutions category of the 2020 Benchmark Innovation Awards. Arcules-XProtect Hybrid VMS The program selected the hybrid cloud video management software (VMS) from both Arcules and Milestone Systems for its ability to enhance the technological capabilities of security and IT teams while empowering integrators to tap into the revenue benefits of cloud services. Benchmark, which provides insight into technical innovations and smart solutions, believes that it is vital that manufacturers and service providers deliver innovations that both enhance the technological capabilities of their products and allow those developments to be implemented in a way that delivers tangible benefits and added value. The Benchmark Innovations Award program highlights and rewards such advances and innovative thinking. Integrating cloud-based VSaas with XProtect VMS Arcules-XProtect integrates cloud-based VSaaS with Milestone XProtect on-premise VMS Arcules-XProtect integrates cloud-based VSaaS with Milestone XProtect on-premise video management software (VMS) to deliver a powerful solution for organizations looking to centralize their dispersed video surveillance operations. The solution is a flexible and feature-rich solution that allows Milestone XProtect customers to deploy remote sites quickly with the power of the Arcules cloud service, with minimal IT resources and downtime. Enhanced cloud infrastructure Additionally, Arcules’ intuitive platform provides sites and cameras connected to Arcules VSaaS, an underlying cloud infrastructure with features such as compatibility between sites, low video latency, data encryption, redundancy and streamlined maintenance with automatic updates, along with easy onboarding. “We built Arcules on the idea that we could create a unified solution that provides an on-demand, flexible deployment and high security in a cloud service model,” said Nigel Waterton, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Arcules. He adds, “This award recognizes the resiliency, performance and cost efficiencies Arcules delivers to the market alongside our valued partners at Milestone Systems with the hybrid VMS solution, and highlights the significant progression in our technologies and innovation over the past year.”

Eagle Eye Networks, the global provider in Cloud Video Surveillance has joined forces with Sitasys AG to create an enhanced security monitoring platform by implementing a cloud-to-cloud integration of Video Surveillance and Alarm Monitoring. This integration allows users to immediately connect Eagle Eye Networks as VMS into the revolutionary cloud-based “evalink” Alarm Management Platform from Sitasys. Sitasys utilized Eagle Eye Networks RESTful API platform and Big Data Video Framework™, to rapidly develop and deliver a unique integration between their alarm management evalink platform and the Eagle Eye Networks cloud-based video surveillance platform. The integrated system allows end-users who receive an alarm from their Sitasys system to immediately verify and view the action or incident. In addition, the user can index, search, retrieve, and analyze videos based on alarms from the Sitasys system. The integration and verification process saves time, reduces operations to a minimum and prevents unnecessary intervention costs.

3xLOGIC, Inc., a globally renowned provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, has announced the release of the latest iteration of its highly-popular VIGIL Server Software, version 11.5. VIGIL Server software, version 11.5 VIGIL Server software, now 64-bit, is the core around which all other 3xLOGIC applications are built. The Easy Setup Wizard guides installation to ensure the software is up and running in minutes. VIGIL Server utilizes proprietary 3xLOGIC RapidStream Technology and Substream Motion Detection capabilities to provide high resolution over low bandwidth networks. Also, the new 64-bit architecture means customers are no longer limited to 32 cameras per server. Jason Bryan, 3xLOGIC Director of Sales, commented, “We’re very excited for this next version of our VIGIL VMS platform. Version 11.5 positions us well to support higher camera counts, making us very cost competitive for enterprise installations, and with a TCO (total cost of ownership) well below our competition.” Compatible with all ONVIF Profile S cameras VIGIL Server is compatible with all ONVIF Profile S cameras, including 3xLOGIC’s Time of Flight, Thermal, V- and S-Series cameras, and the new generation of VISIX Gen III cameras. In addition to Gen III cameras previously released on June 1st, these Gen III cameras are now available: 5 MP Indoor/Outdoor, Mini-Dome IP camera: This versatile camera fits most entry-level as well as more complex indoor/outdoor installation requirements. (VX-5M4-MD-IW) 8 MP Indoor/Outdoor Dome IP camera: This vandal resistant, versatile camera fits most every outdoor installation requirement. (VX-8M-OD-RIAW) 2 MP Outdoor Dome camera: This outdoor camera is ideal for network video surveillance applications that require superior clarity and detail in varying lighting and weather conditions. (VX-2M-OD-RIAWH) 2 MP Indoor/Outdoor Dome camera: This indoor/outdoor camera can record up to 60 frames per second, offering high resolution and high frame rate stream. (VX-2M-OD-RIAW) VIGIL Client Intelligent SmartSearch feature quickly identifies and reviews events of interest VIGIL Client offers unrivaled access to live and recorded video from any networked VIGIL Server NVR. Intelligent SmartSearch feature quickly identifies and reviews events of interest. Seamless integration with 3xLOGIC’s infinias Access Control creates a complete, affordable, and powerful solution. Erron Spalsbury, 3xLOGIC Global Director of Customer Support, noted in introducing VIGIL v11.5 to the company’s customers, “All of our fantastic integrations, easy setup wizards, and management tools are all still available, making this next version of software an easy upgrade that looks and feels like what our customers have grown to love and expect.” Erron adds, “There are a huge number of advancements that we’ve made all the way through this software. I think our current customers and our new customers are going to quite pleased that we’ve listened to the voice of the customer and we’ve delivered.”

Stadiums around the world are still paralyzed from the effects of COVID-19. Fans and spectators in masses have been absent from stadiums since April and there doesn’t seem to be a concrete plan on how or when they’ll be able to return to near capacity. The NBA recently opted to form a bubble philosophy concept in Disney’s facilities, although it’s been a relative success, it’s also been a $200 million temporary solution. This then begs the question: How long can stadiums survive like this without spectator’s present? History tells us that stadiums, venues and sport recover from disasters, so what can stadiums do to speed up the process? This is the catalyst for AI to be integrated on mass level to stadiums around the world. AI is the answer AI’s role in getting fans and spectators back is huge, through capabilities such as: Social Distance Monitoring Crowd Scanning/Metrics Facial Recognition Fever Detection Track & Trace Providing Behavioural Analytics Technologies such as IREX.ai is now working alongside National Leagues, Franchises and Governing Bodies to implement AI surveillance software into their CCTV/surveillance cameras. This is now creating a more collaborative effort from the operations team in stadiums, rather than purely security. Stadiums around the world are still paralyzed from the effects of COVID-19 AI surveillance software such as IREX.ai when implemented into the surveillance cameras can be accessed by designated users on any device and on any browser platform. Crowd metrics Arming stadiums with AI-powered surveillance tools can detect crowd metrics such as “people counting” and “group statistics”. This ensures stadium personnel can monitor social distancing with precision, accuracy and immediately. Alerts can be set up throughout parts of the stadium to alert senior staff members when overcrowding can appear with real time videos, analytics and photos to their hand-held device, such as a smartphone. Fever detection Thermal cameras have been implemented throughout facilities including stadiums and are helping assist to spot people with elevated temperatures. What IREX.ai implements is an alert system, coupled with facial recognition of any individual(s) that read an elevated body temperature. This alert system then provides security and health officials with a photo of the individual with the elevated body temperature, meaning staff can react quicker to the situation prevent this individual from entry. Pandemic monitoring by facial recognition  Thermal cameras have been implemented throughout facilities including stadiums and are helping assist to spot people with elevated temperatures Through facial recognition, staff members will be able to locate individuals through simply uploading a photo. It has never been easier to find a person of interest. With masks becoming an everyday part of society, facial recognition has come under scrutiny regarding the accuracy when a mask is worn. Irex.ai still maintains a 96% accuracy with individuals wearing masks and can set up alerts for any individuals not wearing a mask. Another important aspect of facial recognition is finding persons of interest quickly through technology like IREX.ai’s “searchveillance”. The future is here. Designated staff can track a person from when they enter the stadium by simply uploading their photograph. An example of how this can assist stadium personnel is to help relocate lost children inside the stadium with their guardians/parents when they are separated. Another attribute would be any individuals banned from entering the stadium would trigger alerts once they appear under surveillance, a fantastic collaborative tool to use with Law Enforcement.    Return on investment With security solutions, one of the biggest issues with any security investment is a lack of an ROI. This is where AI security is breaking the mould. The ability to provide business analytics, consumer/fan behaviours, traffic patterns, etc, allows other departments within the organization to gain vital information that can assist with their strategies and practices. Stadium security will never be the same in a post-COVID world, so why will its practices stay the same? AI & Stadiums is no longer the future, it’s the 2020 solution.

Returning to work after the global pandemic will not be business as usual, and security systems are an important asset when it comes to helping to keep occupants and buildings safe. For example, video analytics can provide insight into how spaces have previously been used and can help to predict where and when occupants encounter each other or congregate. These foot-traffic patterns can inform settings for a variety of devices – like ventilation and temperature controls – and even help owners create social distancing plans and monitor personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance. “While the ‘new normal’ is still being defined, we believe there will be a greater focus on creating healthier environments while also complying with new regulations,” says Marcus Logan, Global Offering Leader, Honeywell Commercial Security. “Temperature, humidity, energy efficiency, security, safety, comfort, productivity, and demonstrating compliance with regulations are all a part of a healthy building.” For example, social distancing is a new concept for the workplace. How do you make that happen in an open work setting, in breakrooms, elevator lobbies and meeting spaces? Optimized systems create healthier environments Anxious employees will need reassurance about returning to the workplace Building owners will need to look at how they can optimize their systems – or deploy new ones – to create a healthier environment. Building technologies, like those provided by Honeywell's Healthy Buildings solutions, provide building owners with more control over critical factors to encourage sustained compliance with changing building standards, safety guidelines, government-issued regulations, and a company's risk management policies. These solutions also provide transparency for occupants into a building's status, says Logan. Hygiene will be a critical issue: People will want to know that the spaces are ready for their return. Increased cleaning procedures and schedules will evolve, and a way will be needed to demonstrate the procedures are effective and that they have been strictly adhered to. Identifying ways to measure effectiveness of sanitisation and track compliance to the procedures will be a key challenge to solve. This is a space that will evolve significantly in the coming months and years, says Logan. Access control and video analytics Contact tracing is a new requirement in some businesses, and security technology – like access control and video analytics with advanced reporting – can help. Access control technology integrated with video analytics can be used to trace occupant movements within a facility. These technologies capture data that can be used with advanced reporting to provide a digital footprint of where a person has been within a facility and if they may have been exposed to someone identified as being infected with a contagious virus. Building owners can then proactively notify exposed individuals evolve to self-quarantine and minimize further spread of an infection. Video analytics can help to predict where and when occupants encounter each other Anxious employees will need reassurance about returning to the workplace. They will not only seek confidence that the building is optimized for a healthier environment but also that processes are in place to quickly identify and respond to potential issues. Transparency and visibility into how the building works and the health of the environment will help to reassure occupants returning to the workplace. “One way to do this is to share building analytics with occupants – to help them understand factors about the indoor air quality or occupancy density,” says Logan. Controlled health, safety and security Honeywell’s solutions provide building owners with more control over critical health, safety and security factors to encourage sustained compliance with changing building standards, safety guidelines, government-issued regulations and a company’s risk management policies, Logan adds. Visibility into how the building works and the health of the environment will help to reassure occupants returning to the workplace Every day there is new information coming from the medical and scientific community about COVID-19, and the building industry is just starting to learn what it all means. Logan warns that there is no single solution that will keep every environment healthy and safe. A good strategy features deploying a combination of solutions, optimising systems and being vigilant to make sure that companies are sustaining compliance to new and changing regulations, says Logan. “Today more than ever we must be mindful of the changing culture of how buildings are managed by making apparent the need to be mindful of health and well-being in all aspects of our lives,” says Logan. Honeywell has developed outcome-based solutions that allow building owners to transparently address building quality factors while supporting their business continuity needs in the uncertain environment. “We’re giving them the data they need to confidently reassure their employees to accelerate their business operations,” he adds.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought about an unprecedented crisis for businesses and individuals. It has also created a new normal, notwithstanding the disruption to our lives, ultimately changing life as we knew it. However, our resilience as humans will ensure that we survive and become better, stronger, and more determined than ever before. As I mentioned, both businesses and individuals have struggled significantly to balance the need for safety versus survival. But at AxxonSoft, we remain committed to keeping our people safe, while ensuring that our support and commitment to our clients are not compromised. Ensuring business continuity At AxxonSoft, our vision has always been to ensure business continuity through enhanced safety and video surveillance offerings. Adhering to the COVID-19 regulations, we are prescribing to social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. As such, we are utilising this time to ensure that our service offering is optimized to afford our clients the ability to repurpose and extend their remote working viabilities. As an essential service provider, we have ensured that we are providing the right tools to our clients to comply with regulations. Our video analytics and face recognition services have no reliance on on-site control rooms and, therefore, clients’ security solutions and personal safety are not compromised. Innovation reimagined During these precarious times, our focus remains on support and service. Our development team continues to work tirelessly to ensure that you can use our software during the lockdown and have accelerated innovation to this end. While we must maintain social distancing, we can and will still be of service to our community Therefore, we are proud to present version 4.11 of the Intellect PSIM, which offers our clients a neural network-based analytical tracker which recognises specific types of objects, such as humans and vehicles. We have also equipped this version with video wall management interface, automatic object tracking and a web reporting subsystem. Behavioral analytics generates data by detecting specific postures, like crouching, shooting or any potentially dangerous scenario. Our surveillance software operates on a three-pronged approach: calibration, detection and measurement, offering a comprehensive bird’s-eye view to clients. This upgrade also upholds mandated social distancing measures and keeps any face-to-face meetings to a minimal. The silver lining is that you can even use this technology when the pandemic is over. Now that’s what I call experiencing the next with AxxonSoft! Finding solutions to the challenges Our specialist technology and frontline technical support staff will ensure that your business is protected during and post-lockdown. We will continue to ensure that we provide solutions to the new challenges that the coronavirus brings, ensuring that our clients can emerge stronger and more responsive to any changes in the future. Our surveillance software operates on a three-pronged approach: calibration, detection and measurement While we must maintain social distancing, we can and will still be of service to our community. After all, change is not just about technology but about mastering mindsets. The COVID-19 disaster has demanded that businesses embrace tech disruptions as early as possible and apply technology in imaginative ways to define the new world of work. Until next time, stay safe!

There is a growing trend towards more outsourcing of the monitoring function among security companies. Technology developments are accelerating and increasing the need for monitoring companies to invest. The barriers to entry are higher than ever. These are some of the trends covered in a discussion at Securing New Ground 2019 titled ‘Monitoring: New Models and New Monetization Strategies’. A panel of monitoring company executives addressed topics centered on how the industry is changing and evolving. New entrants in the monitoring space New entrants in the monitoring space face barriers to entry, in particular the need for more investment"“New entrants in the monitoring space face barriers to entry, in particular the need for more investment in infrastructure and expertize,” said Spencer Moore, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Rapid Response Monitoring. ”Because of the expense of new technologies, more full-service monitoring companies are outsourcing the monitoring function to existing wholesale monitoring companies.” “The cost of entry has gone up, and companies are trying to preserve capital,” agreed Jim McMullen, President/COO at COPS Monitoring. “Larger companies are realizing wholesale monitoring does a better job from a customer service viewpoint. We are more focused on monitoring and the quality of service. It takes a lot of money to keep up with the cyber world,” added McMullen. Wholesale monitoring companies Wholesale monitoring companies are finding that they need petabytes of storage space, among other expensive requirements. “The trend is toward technology evolving quicker, and that often requires investment and training in a monitoring center,” said Daniel Oppenheim, CEO of Affiliated Monitoring. “Because trying out new technology is so important, wholesale monitoring centers often find that they serve as a ‘laboratory’ to experiment with newer technologies. Limited trials often expand later to broader outsourcing of a company’s monitoring services”, said Oppenheim. Automated Secure Alarm Protocol “What people miss out on is that monitoring is quite complex, and there are specialized services and skillsets, and barriers to entry from a regulatory perspective,” said Moore. Adding value to the monitoring function is The Monitoring Association’s ASAP-to-PSAP service Adding value to the monitoring function is The Monitoring Association’s ASAP-to-PSAP service. The national service saves time, improves accuracy and increases efficiency in communications between monitoring centers and public safety answering points (PSAPs). The service uses the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP). Public Safety Answering Points Up to 60 PSAPS have joined the program, although the low number is misleading, given that a single PSAP could represent the ‘City of Houston’. (There are an estimated 6,000 total PSAPs nationwide). It has taken six to eight years to develop the program from its genesis to where it is today, when more participation is finally creating a critical mass. Technology is fundamentally changing monitoring companies. “We used to be a services company powered by a little bit of technology, but we’re now moving toward a technology services company,” said Moore. Critical ‘filtering service’ Monitoring provides a critical ‘filtering service’ between public requests for emergency service and those tasked with providing the services. In effect, monitoring centers work with manufacturers to make them more resilient to false alarms. Monitoring companies also provide a human touch in a time of need, and emotional empathy. Today, emergency information is being transmitted to PSAPs electronically, which saves time and money. The current low-taxation environment means there are fewer resources for municipal governments, so cost savings make a difference. Monitoring, a specialized skillset Increasingly, monitoring is becoming a business that requires a more specialized skillset Increasingly, monitoring is becoming a business that requires a more specialized skillset. Regulation, and the need for increasing investment, is driving consolidation. “With a decreasing number of monitoring companies, there are fewer customers for software developers and other tools. Less outside innovation makes it more likely monitoring centers will have to ‘go it alone’ and develop software and other tools internally,” said Oppenheim. Importance of monitoring systems “In effect, consolidation will serve to limit technology choices, and to increase the need to in-source a lot of expertize”, agrees Moore. Tying monitoring systems into other software systems is another continuing challenge. “People want our system tied into their system,” said McMullen. “I have two people who focus full time to tie our systems into other systems. There will be more computers talking to computers.”

Many venues are using access control, video surveillance systems, sensors, and additional hardware solutions as part of a broader security strategy. By utilizing so many disparate systems, corporate security teams are left with information “silos” that create inefficiencies and hamper communication. This abundance of hardware has left teams with too much data or too many tools, to manage effectively. Armored Things offers a software solution. The company’s “spatial intelligence platform” currently collects more data than other security intelligence solutions, utilizing a broader range of sources and fusing data together rather than integrating it. The platform currently focuses on taking in data from WiFi, access control, and video surveillance systems and applying machine learning to deliver customers features such as real-time predictive analytics to prevent incidents like bottlenecks or overcrowding. Spatial Intelligence is an approach to physical security that enables users to collect, manage, and interpret data in a single platform. Combine machine learning with data The term can best be used to describe how digital transformation has affected physical security. Spatial Intelligence in its infancy looked like video surveillance data combined with machine learning to produce video analytics. The spatial intelligence solutions of today can combine machine learning with data of any source, type, and size to deliver value across a large organization, not just the security team, says the company. Armored Things’ Spatial Intelligence platform unifies data from information silos to support data-driven decisions around operations and security. By fusing data from multiple sources, we can produce more consistent and useful insights for our customers” A suite of analytics, reporting and visualization tools helps customers gain a real-time understanding of people and flow in their space. By removing the guesswork of everyday decisions, the product enables customers to make data-driven decisions at a moment’s notice, according to the company. Armored Things is more than a data management tool. “By fusing data from multiple sources (rather than only cameras or only WiFi), we can produce more consistent, accurate, and useful insights for our customers,” says Kevin Davis, Chief Security Officer at Armored Things. "Being able to collect the data is the first step, but turning it into actionable intelligence is where Armored Things excels.” IP cameras and other IoT-enabled devices The range of data sources includes IP cameras and other IoT-enabled devices and even outside data sources like bus schedules and weather reports. Armored Things has built a team of public safety and technical experts with the mission to keep people safe where they live, work, and play. By leveraging emerging technology to enhance physical security, the company built the software-centric Spatial Intelligence Platform for large organizations to enhance the safety and operations of their space. Schools and education facilities are among the customers that can benefit. The leadership at Armored Things cares deeply about school safety, so the recent epidemic of campus violence has definitely been a large topic of conversation, according to the company. “By delivering our products to a greater number of customers, Armored Things hopes to continue making schools a safe place to learn and gather,” says Davis. Recently, there was a significant bottleneck lasting nearly 30 minutes at the Syracuse-Clemson soccer game. Unifying data into one platform Digital transformation is disrupting the way our customers think about physical security,” Using Armored Things technology and providing real-time data to security and operations personnel could have identified the bottleneck as it began to form. This would have notified relevant personnel, who could have taken steps to mitigate the problem before it turned into a security risk. Keeping the security infrastructure simple is imperative to success. Integrating a software solution into the security strategy shouldn’t complicate existing operations, says the company. “Armored Things Spatial Intelligence Platform can bring your security and operations into focus by unifying all of your data into one platform for ease of use,” says Davis. For this reason, the team chose to integrate not only with customers’ existing security infrastructure but with non-traditional data sources (e.g. WiFi, event schedules, ticketing) as well. “By combining and analyzing a more diverse dataset, Armored Things can help our customers make better decisions with deeper data-driven insights,” says Davis. "Digital transformation is disrupting the way our customers think about physical security,” says Davis. “As a team, our aim is to help our customers adapt to the digital age, as they transition from hardware to software-centric security solutions. Fostering organizational change is difficult, and our team hopes to make the transition process easier for our customers.”

Gunshot detection today is part of more physical security systems than ever before, and many manufacturers are developing interfaces to the latest gunshot detection technologies. Genetec has integrated ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology into its unified IP security platform, Security Center. Thanks to this integration, police departments and security professionals will be able to receive more actionable information, gain rapid access and detailed location insights when a gunshot situation occurs.   Cloud-Based Analysis Software ShotSpotter uses wide-area acoustic surveillance that automatically gets activated when gunfire occurs, providing comprehensive outdoor coverage on campuses and in complex urban geographies. ShotSpotter sensors and cloud-based analysis software triangulate and pinpoint the precise location of each round fired within seconds, the number of shots fired and provide an immediate gunfire alert with an audio clip. Detailed incident data is immediately sent to SST’s Incident Review Center (IRC), a secure data processing and alert validation facility, where acoustics experts analyze the data and qualify the incident in real-time 24/7. Once validated, an alert is sent directly into Genetec’s Security Center, all in under a minute. Once the alarm is triggered within Security Center upon gunshot detection, operators can quickly access video and other related data surrounding the location of a gunshot alert, and immediately visualize it on Security Center maps, leveraging the dynamic visualization capabilities of the Security Center Plan Manager. Genetec has integrated ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology into its unified IP security platform Gunshot Identification Software Stanley Security has announced a partnership with Shooter Detection Systems LLC (SDS), gunshot detection solutions provider. As an authorized dealer, STANLEY Security is now certified to sell, install and service SDS products and services. SDS’s Guardian Indoor Active Shooter Detection System combines acoustic gunshot identification software with infrared gunfire flash detection for a fully automated gunshot detection and alerting solution. The Guardian System immediately detects gunshots and simultaneously alerts building occupants The Guardian System immediately detects gunshots and simultaneously alerts building occupants and first responders within one second and with zero false alerts. Johnson Controls has announced that its exacqVision video management system now integrates with Databuoy Corp.’s ShotPoint acoustic gunshot detection and localization system to speed response time and heighten the decision-making process for local responders during active shooter situations. Integrated Security Systems Johnson Controls has also released the Detect360 Active Shooter Response (ASR) system, combining reliable gunshot detection with notification technology to provide immediate warning when a gunshot is fired within a building. By providing early notification and precise location of the shooter, the ASR system gives occupants time to find safety and allows police and security personnel to mitigate the threat up to 60 percent faster. Detect360 ASR gives first responders information as it develops at the scene, including shot location, number of shots, location of the shooter in near real-time and the ability to remotely monitor the situation through integrated security systems. It also collects forensic information that can later be used by law enforcement. The system supports multiple integration options, including video feeds from existing CCTV and intrusion systems, mass notification systems, access control systems and panic button/manual initiation systems. Public Safety Access Points Listed as one of the most important new technologies debuted at CES 2019 by the Wall Street Journal and NBC News, Safe Zone also showcased its Safe Zone Gunfire Detector (GFD) at ISC West 2019. Priced at $149 per unit, the Safe Zone Gunfire Detector combines infrared and sound detection technologies with immediate cloud-based data analysis that can analyze more than 3,000 data points of each loud noise that exceeds ambient levels by a certain threshold. Utilizing the data from multiple detectors simultaneously, the system determines the location of shots fired, the number of shots, and the type and caliber of gun being used. Within 10 seconds of the trigger pull, an alert is sent to Public Safety Access Points in the appropriate dispatch center, giving local 911 dispatchers all critical information on their computers. Reseller Recruitment Program Shot Tracer has launched a reseller recruitment program with a highly attractive on-boarding proposition for qualified dealers. Qualifying resellers can receive a Gunshot Simulator Kit valued at $1,000 when they commit to becoming a Shot Tracer dealer. Shot Tracer’s Eagle Gunshot Detection System easily integrates with virtually any security, alarm, surveillance and access system via contact closure – or wirelessly via IP integration. The system determines the location of shots fired, the number of shots, and the type In fact, Shot Tracer gunshot detection sensors are as easy to install as a smoke detector, so there’s virtually no learning curve for installing dealers. The new Shot Tracer Reseller Recruitment Program includes an exclusive offer for installing dealers to receive a free Gunshot Simulator Kit, valued at over $1000, which is essential for demonstrating Shot Tracer Eagle Gunshot Detection sensors. Terms and conditions apply for qualifying resellers.

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

ZeroEyes, a renowned provider of artificial intelligence weapons detection solution, announced that it will provide its technology to the South Side Area School District in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. ZeroEyes’ platform is purpose-built to detect visible weapons in real-time, identifying guns before any violent threats can occur. ZeroEyes’ software integrates with an organization’s existing camera systems and video analytics to detect weapons in real time. As soon as a visible weapon is detected, an alert with the image of the weapon goes to the ZeroEyes monitoring team. Once confirmed, an alert is sent to a local emergency dispatch, onsite security staff, police and school administrators via cellphone and desktop. South Side Area School District operates three schools: an elementary school, middle school, and high school, with approximately 980 students. Weapons detection solution The school has invested in a number of different technologies focused on keeping staff, students and visitors safe, taking a pioneering stance in prioritizing school safety. ZeroEyes is the first weapons detection solution installed on premises. ZeroEyes’ AI weapons detection platform allows security personnel to quickly enact security protocols “As a rural public school district, it’s absolutely crucial for us to take the steps needed to ensure the safety of everyone who sets foot on campus,” said Alan Fritz, Superintendent at South Side Area School District. “ZeroEyes has consistently demonstrated their steadfast focus and commitment to public safety, and we believe that their weapons detection solution will play a critical component in our overall security approach.” Active shooter threats ZeroEyes partners with its customers as well as local first responders to ensure that organizations - including schools, commercial and government buildings - have an additional layer of security to identify and stop threats. ZeroEyes’ AI weapons detection platform allows security personnel to quickly enact security protocols, or direct first responders to a threat.  “ZeroEyes was founded with the core focus to help mitigate school shootings, and we’re excited to partner with a school district that is taking proactive measures against active shooter threats,” said Dustin Brooks, Vice President of K-12 Education at ZeroEyes. “We look forward to the partnership with the South Side Area School District and forging a strong relationship built upon deeply caring about protecting students and faculty.” Prevent mass shootings Founded by former Navy SEALs and military veterans with over 50 years of collective military experience, ZeroEyes’ mission is to detect weapons before shots are fired, enable faster response times for first responders and security personnel, and ultimately prevent mass shootings.

Protecting commercial properties is complicated and goes beyond safeguarding people and property. Security professionals respond to the needs of the business, staff, contractors, and visitors and deal with the realities of property damage, theft, and disgruntled employees. Ava helps the team react to anomalies and policy enforcement in real-time. Instead of merely investigating incidents, organizations can take the necessary steps to prevent them. Spotlight brings relevant feeds to the operator’s attention and triggers real-time alerts to address threats before they escalate. Leverage integrated video and audio analytics to give an enhanced understanding of the camera feeds. Respond to loitering challenges, access anomalies, theft incidents, fires, and more. Identifying suspicious people Smart Search allows operators to search by appearance, events, objects, similarity, or image. Recovering lost or stolen objects, identifying suspicious people like unescorted visitors, investigating health incidents or damage to the property, performing cleaning crew inspections now take minutes instead of hours. Combine with access control to identify tailgating or fire or active shooter scenarios To gain occupancy insights, operators can leverage Ava Aware’s unique Map view with Smart Presence. By adding floor plans and maps of premises, people and vehicles appear as dots in their precise on-site locations. Operators can see live footage as they move on the cameras’ fields of view. Combine with access control to identify tailgating or fire or active shooter scenarios. Connect Ava Aware to the cloud to achieve easy and simple deployment and access from anywhere in the world. Share links of recorded video with team members, claim investigators, and law enforcement, regardless of whether they have admin access to Aware or not. Get a secure download of video files in a standard mp4 format with digital watermarking for authenticity. Key benefits delivered are as follows: Integrate with existing cameras Hundreds of hours saved in forensic searches Add access control to extend capabilities Video & metadata storage remain on-premises Full site survivability and local access Increase operational productivity and reduce facility costs Distribute heat and cooling efficiently, optimize cleaning and workplace productivity through hot-desking insights Use people flow insights to manage people and vehicle queues efficiently Automatically decrease storage demands from all the recordings Reduce bandwidth consumption on critical links with AI-based optimization Pay for what is needed, when it is needed, without the hassle of complicated licensing Up to 200 cameras per Ava appliance— small footprint support for larger facilities One-click Ava Dome and Ava 360 camera configuration Encrypted media at rest and in transit Automatic firmware updates Digital watermarking to prevent tampering Simple subscription model without hidden costs or analytics add-ons With a simple licensing model, Vaion always includes services and software upgrades. They no longer have to worry about integration charges, operator charges, API fees, or the complexity between small, medium, large, and enterprise services.

Today’s medical institutions have a large number of patients who require constant supervision, risk malpractice and patient negligence claims, need to ensure hygiene compliance, and find solutions for the high security and video storage costs. When faced with limited high administrative costs, government funding, or recession, intelligent video security solutions can help hospitals relieve the pressure. Choose Ava Unified Security (formerly Vaion) to reduce liability claims, detect threats proactively, improve operational efficiency, and provide surgery documentation for educational purposes. Why Ava? Anomaly detection and analysis in real-time Ava’s pervasive, integrated video analytics use self-learning to give an enhanced understanding of all of the user’s cameras’ feeds. The staff can use the dynamic Video view with Spotlight that brings only the relevant feeds to their attention. In unusual activity cases, the operators can immediately respond when a high-risk patient leaves his room unattended or visitors are wandering in prohibited areas. Increased situational awareness Add maps of the user’s facilities and rooms to keep track of high-risk patients, visitors, and staff and their exact location. Maps include Smart Presence, a capability that lets the users track them as they move through their facilities. Combine with access control to locate patients and staff in critical moments. Administrators can also have a clear picture across their locations to improve patient care and daily operations. Quick search within minutes for insurance claims Operators can find visual evidence to prove or disprove liability claims fast and accurately or if hygiene protocol compliance is followed correctly. Smart Search allows personnel to search by appearance, events, objects, similarity, or image. The vcore VMS integrates with access control systems through the generic access control API. It is possible to get a clear picture of historical entries and exits of patients and staff and the video associated with it. Sharp images and integrated audio analytics Equipped with directional acoustic sensors, Ava vcam Dome and Pano notify security and healthcare professionals instantly when loud noises, screaming, glass breaking, and gunshots occur. The cameras also deliver unmatched video quality required to provide recordings for scientific presentations, research, and education. vcam is suitable for different settings, from parking lots and storerooms to patient wards and operating rooms. Key benefits, delivered: Build from existing investment while retaining privacy Integrates with existing cameras Hundreds of hours saved in forensic searches Add access control to extend capabilities Video and metadata storage remain securely on-premises Full site survivability and local access Safe and reliable environment Capture every detail at all times with discreet security cameras Monitor high-risk patients at all time with remote monitoring Enable preventative action through immediate response time Improve operations and services Save storage and money Automatically decrease storage demands from all of the user’s recordings Reduce bandwidth consumption on critical links with AI-based optimization Support both on-premises and cloud within a single deployment Up to 200 cameras per Ava vserver appliance - small footprint support for larger facilities Simplicity and compliance One-click Ava vcam configuration Encrypted media at rest and in transit Automatic firmware updates Digital watermarking to prevent tampering Simple subscription model without hidden costs or analytics add-ons Simple and flexible licensing With a simple licensing model, Ava always includes services and software upgrades. The users no longer have to worry about integration charges, operator charges, API fees, or the complexity between small, medium, large, and enterprise services.

Monitoring campuses to protect students, parents, and staff means balancing proactive measures with effective response to incidents. Ava Unified Security (previously Vaion) helps one identify unwanted events like vandalism, intrusion, loitering, parking violations, or people involved in suspicious acts so that one can focus on what truly matters: delivering positive academic experiences. Anomaly detection in real-time Powered by Spotlight™, the dynamic video view with instant notifications draws attention to the relevant video feeds with potential risks. Identify intruder break-ins, loitering, guns, or unauthorized vehicles in real-time. Operators can switch between live and playback with the click of a button. Smart Presence™ depicts people as dots on maps and live footage of persons of interest. Combine with access control to monitor hallways for a complete picture of loitering, theft, or even active shooter scenarios. Gain insights on occupancy counting in classrooms and libraries for better energy efficiency. Accurate search and integrated audio analytics Smart Search™ allows operators to search by appearance, events, objects, similarity, or image Smart Search™ allows operators to search by appearance, events, objects, similarity, or image. Recovering lost or stolen objects, such as laptops or vehicles, identifying suspicious people inside or just outside campus, locating missing students now take minutes instead of hours. With the same or fewer resources, operators can provide compelling evidence and mitigate liability risks. Ava Dome and Ava 360 perform perform exceptionally well either indoors or outdoors and in any lighting conditions making them suitable for different settings, such as classrooms, assembly halls, sports halls, or dormitories, and blend discreetly as interior fixtures. The integrated audio analytics identifies sound patterns and sends instant alerts in cases of broken glass, screaming, and gunshots. Key benefits Build from existing investment while retaining privacy Integrate with existing cameras Add access control to extend capabilities Video & metadata storage remain on-premises Full site survivability and local access Save storage and money Automatically decrease storage demands from all the recordings Reduce bandwidth consumption on critical links with AI-based optimization Pay for what one needs, when one needs it, without the hassle of complicated licensing Safe and welcoming environment  Capture every detail at all times with discreet security cameras Increase situational awareness Enable preventative action through immediate response time Collaboration and flexible licencing Globally access live feeds and recordings Share video links with law enforcement authorities to facilitate ease of investigations Maintain the integrity of records with video watermarking With a simple licensing model, Ava always includes services and software upgrades. One no longer has to worry about integration charges, operator charges, API fees, or the complexity between small, medium, large, and enterprise services.

Iris ID, a provider of iris recognition technology, announced its contactless IrisAccess® biometric technology is being used for employee time and attendance at hotels in Iraq which are part of Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, a London-based hotel company that manages and operates 135 luxury hotels in 80 locations worldwide. The Millennium hotels – the Millennium Kurdistan, the Copthorne Hotel Baranan and Millennium Kurdistan Hotel and Spa – are located in the Sulaymaniyah province in the country’s Kurdistan region. Biometric readers The process takes a second to complete and is highly intuitive, requiring virtually no employee training to use" Mohammed Murad, vice president, global sales and business development, Iris ID, said iCAM 7S series biometric readers provide a quick and accurate way to record the time employees work each day. “The process takes a second to complete and is highly intuitive, requiring virtually no employee training to use,” he said. “The iCAM 7S platform automatically tilts to locate a person’s face and iris patterns. Also, it’s important in the COVID-19 era, that the technology is contactless and not impacted by employees wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks and goggles.” Integrate with the payroll management system The iCAM 7S time and attendance units integrate with the hotels’ payroll management system to ensure accurate reporting of hours worked without any manual processes. Iris ID’s highly accurate identity verification technology eliminates a costly payroll fraud scheme known as buddy punching – when one employee signs in or out for another. InfoMet Technologies, an Istanbul, Turkey-based integrator of security and building management systems, installed the Iris ID system in the three Iraqi hotels.

Traditionally, dealer-installers and/or integrators provide the front line of support to end user customers after a sale. Because integrators assemble and provide the “solution” – often using products from multiple manufacturers – they are most familiar with the total system and can troubleshoot any problems. However, manufacturers may be better equipped to deal with specific problems after a sale and also to provide a variety of resources to end-users. It’s a delicate balance, and the best approach may be dependent on the product or even the market. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of manufacturers in providing support to end user customers after the sale?

While unpacking our bags from a trade show, it is interesting to consider the dominant themes and trends we heard and saw at the show. So it is with the recently concluded Global Security Exchange (GSX) show in Chicago, presented by ASIS International. Amid all the product promotion, training sessions, networking and tired feet at the show, what really stood out? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What was the big news at the GSX 2019 trade show in Chicago?

The manufacturers behind today’s security technologies are a varied bunch. There are large manufacturers with deep pockets and plenty of resources. And there are smaller manufacturers who are nimble, can react faster to changing market conditions and to whom each customer represents a hard-fought win. There are also plenty of manufacturers in the middle ground. But what impact does the size of a company have on the quality of its products? We took the question to this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is there a correlation between the size of a manufacturer and the quality of its products – for better or worse?