Wireless video security system

Luxul, global innovator of IP networking solutions for AV integrators, has announced its technology line-up for the NAHB International Builders' Show (IBS), taking place February 19-21, 2019 in Las Vegas. In the Legrand booth SU614, the company will exhibit a wide range of solutions for home builders that deliver reliable, high-performance networks in smart homes, including Gigabit switches; the next generation of wireless controller technology; indoor and outdoor wireless access points (APs); wired and wireless routers; intelligent network power distribution units (PDU); and the Wi-Fi Assurance Program exclusively for builders. "Every aspect of the smart home is powered by the network, so rock-solid reliability and exceptional performance from all components — from routers and switches to wireless APs — are absolutely critical to delivering the seamless experience users expect," said Mike Grubb, vice president of marketing at Luxul. "At IBS 2019, we'll be showcasing a full line-up of solutions that not only meet these standards but offer advanced capabilities that simplify installations and allow integrators to remotely monitor and support their clients' systems to lower costs and increase customer satisfaction." PoE Devices And Wireless Controllers Highlighted Luxul managed switches at IBS 2019 will include the 12-port/8 PoE+ XMS-1208P Highlighted Luxul managed switches at IBS 2019 will include the 12-port/8 PoE+ XMS-1208P, which features port Auto-Recovery and Power Scheduling to ensure system reliability and uptime. Auto-Recovery allows the switch to power cycle unresponsive PoE devices, and Power Scheduling allows switch PoE ports to be turned on or off on a schedule. Enabling simple network expansion, the XMS-1208P features two Gigabit RJ-45 uplink ports and two SFP ports. Luxul will also be showcasing its 8-port XGS-1008 and 5-port XGS-1005 Gigabit desktop switches. Luxul's XWC-1000 wireless controller will be on display, with support for up to 16 APs, allowing each AP to be configured for a designated wireless channel in addition to supporting individual wireless transmit power adjustment. Newly deployed APs are now automatically added for plug-and-play installation. Luxul's Roam Assist technology built into the wireless controller ensures that mobile devices are always connected to the best AP for the highest performance. Wireless AP Solutions Featured indoor wireless AP solutions include the Apex line of access points: XAP-810, XAP-1510, and XAP-1610. For smaller networks, the cost-effective XAP-810 offers 802.11ac 2x2 dual-band technology and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1200Mbps. The XAP-1510 features 802.11ac 3x3 dual-band technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1900Mbps. The XAP-1610 AC3100 dual-band wireless AP features advanced 4x4 MU-MIMO (802.11ac Wave 2) technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 3167Mbps. The AP is designed to enhance transmission and reception performance, producing higher throughput when experiencing medium to weak signals within the effective range. For superior wireless coverage outside, Luxul's outdoor APs feature rugged IP-65-rated designs, pole or wall mounting options, and simple set-up and installation. On display at IBS 2019 will be the 300N XAP-1240 featuring multi-stream 802.11n wireless technology; the dual-band AC1200 XAP-1440 featuring multi-stream 802.11ac technology for data rates up to 1200Mbps; and the dual-band AC1200 XWO-BAP1 bridging AP to deliver connectivity to remote locations such as outbuildings and guest houses. Remote Wireless Security And Management For ultra-fast streaming and bandwidth-intensive applications, Luxul's wired Gigabit dual-WAN Epic 5 router will be on display For ultra-fast streaming and bandwidth-intensive applications, Luxul's wired Gigabit dual-WAN Epic 5 router will be on display. The router combines Gigabit WAN-to-LAN speeds with built-in Domotz remote management and Router Limits content management technologies to lower operation costs and put homeowners in control of their internet experience. Highlighted wireless routers will include the XWR-1200 dual-band AC1200 Gigabit router, which features high performance 802.11ac 2x2 MIMO technology for data rates up to 1200Mbps. Fast and easy to set up, the Luxul PDU-2 on display allows for the local monitoring and rebooting of unresponsive devices, while its self-healing function performs reboots automatically to avoid costly truck rolls and service calls for integrators. Power management features for the PDU-2 include MOV surge and spike protection for connected equipment in addition to remote sequencing for controlled startup and shutdown. Wi-Fi Assurance Program Finally, Luxul will highlight its Wi-Fi Assurance Program for home builders. With the initiative, the company is providing dealers and builders with certified wired and wireless network designs — complete with tech support — that are guaranteed to meet their customers' reliability and performance requirements.

Matrix Comsec, global manufacturer and provider of Security and Telecom solutions, is participating in IT EXPO 2019 at Fort Lauderdale, Florida to be held from 30th Jan to 1st Feb 2019. Matrix will be showcasing its comprehensive range of people mobility management, IP video surveillance and unified communication solutions at the event. Matrix is known for its customer centric, innovative range of solutions for unified communications, IP video surveillance, access control and time-attendance applications catering to diverse and complex deployments especially for the SMB, SME and large enterprises. SPARSH VP710 Video And COSEC ARGO Door Controller Enterprise video collaboration solution, SPARSH VP710 that sets a new benchmark by offering enhanced video and voice capabilities. SMB IP-PBX, SPARK100, an all-in-one communication solution with enterprise-grade unified communication and collaboration. Next generation door controller, COSEC ARGO for the access control market. The new door controller is equipped with features like 3.5” IPS touchscreen LCD with Gorilla Glass, powerful processor for ultra-fast user identification, intuitive user experience, vandal resistant (IK08). Matrix IP Video - Access Control Integration Matrix will also be demonstrating seamless integration between Matrix IP video surveillance, access control and unified communications solutions, along with Matrix video management and device management software suite. Additionally, at this event, Matrix will exhibit its range of Gateways. These gateways allow easy integration with most of IP-PBX, TDM PBX, Softswitch and hosted solutions. Award-winning series of Matrix Gateways are perfect for enterprise and carrier-class solutions for multi-site connectivity and remote survivability while offering superior voice quality and state of the art routing features.

A dependable Internet connection is virtually every industry’s sustenance and without it, business dies. Yet many don’t realize how frequently the worst occurs, or how dramatically it could impact their livelihood. According to industry research, network downtime can cost small and midsize businesses (SMBs) anywhere from $5,600 per minute, to between $8,600 and $74,000 an hour. Whether it’s business continuity for users in retail/point-of-sale (POS), construction, banking, insurance, restaurants and hospitality, or its primary connectivity for end users in utilities, transportation, security, municipalities, kiosks, ATMs and digital signage, in addition to the financial drain, IT failures have far-reaching repercussions that can result in permanent client loss, missed deadlines, devalued brands and more. Fleet Management And Asset Tracking SensLynx Seamless Failover automatically rescues lost primary wired or broadband connections to maintain business continuity Though many backup options exist, most are complex or costly, and almost none provide a complete and easy to set up solution. SensLynx, widely known for its popular fleet and asset tracking program, painstakingly designed its new suite of seamless IoT solutions to fill this void. Their integrated plug-and-play bundle comes with everything needed to prevent interruption including software, hardware and connectivity, plus fully managed services and monitoring built-in through their cloud manager services, all wrapped up in one low monthly rate. SensLynx Seamless Failover automatically rescues lost primary wired or broadband connections to maintain business continuity. SensLynx Seamless LTE almost instantly deploys primary connectivity to new or temporary (pop-up) locations, while also functioning as a backup or secondary connection. Its applications encompass trade shows, oil and gas remote monitoring, in-vehicle, mobile or portable uses, disaster recovery and every other primary connectivity category. Both solutions are feature rich and ready-to-go, but it’s the SensLynx Seamless SD-WAN technology that’s truly changing the connectivity game.  SensLynx Seamless SD-WAN Technology Initially, SensLynx Seamless IoT Solutions will focus on cellular carriers, master agents, telecom VARs and managed service providers (MSPs) We all need reliable IT connections, but we all want faster speeds and broader throughput. SensLynx Seamless SD-WAN delivers both. This solution is capable of combining multiple wireless or wired networks (e.g. cable, DSL, and broadband), into one seamless and super-quick connection that’s unbreakable. Even if one goes down, the others will continue. That means customers benefit from ‘always on’ connectivity and increased productivity to boot. Traditionally, SD-WAN technology of this caliber is too cost prohibitive for SMBs, but with SensLynx’s introduction of Seamless SD-WAN, what was once unattainable is now accessible. Rob Garry, SensLynx Co-Founder and CEO said, “I’ve worked with the most prominent wireless communications companies in the world and founded two IoT/M2M corporations in the last 20 years but, until now, I’ve never been more confident in the potential success of our new solutions.” Initially, SensLynx Seamless IoT Solutions will focus on cellular carriers, master agents, telecom VARs and managed service providers (MSPs). However, being partner-centric, SensLynx is already in development on a synergistic Channel Partner/Reseller Program to support indirect sales avenues. “By simplifying IoT and providing SMBs with bundled, affordable solutions, worry-free wireless failover and primary connectivity, SensLynx is fulfilling its vision of bettering businesses with cost savings and efficiencies,” said Tom Maguire, COO and CMO of SensLynx.

Figures from the 2018 edition of ‘The Wireless Access Control Report’ show continued strong growth for wireless vs. wired solutions. Why do you think security and facility managers are “cutting the wires” more and more? Advantages Of Wireless Access Control The energy-efficiency of wireless doors delivers significant cost savings"Russell Wagstaff, Director for Commercial Access Solutions, ASSA ABLOY EMEA says, “Among the many advantages of wireless discussed in the report, I would highlight two. Firstly, removing the need to cable every door makes it much easier and more economical to bring many more doors into your access system. So, wireless technology can upgrade your building’s security in an instant. Secondly, the energy-efficiency of wireless doors delivers significant cost savings. The standard batteries’ locks usually have long lives, and only fully ‘power up’ when there’s a credential to read. Wired doors are generally connected to the mains 24/7.” The new report forecasts growth in wireless locks for “non-door” applications (lockers, servers, and so on) to outgrow those for doors. Why is wireless technology especially suited to these “non-doors”? Russell said, “Partly it’s about convenience. The more applications that can be secured and unlocked with a single credential, the better for site users. Facility managers benefit from the wider scope of their access system, which gives them more control. In addition, because these ‘non-door’ devices are wireless, access control can easily extend outdoors. Padlocks for gates, machinery locks, storage lockers. With the right lock, these can all be secured within the same access control system as your front door.” Wireless And Real-Time Access Control For SMBs What specific problem did SMARTair solve at ULab? Enrique Burgos, Director at uLab: “In addition to regular daily traffic [of around 100 staff], weekly traffic can almost multiply by ten if an event is held. We needed an access control system as flexible and convenient as SMARTair.” One of Spain’s newest co-working spaces, uLab’s vision incorporated the latest in security, accessibility and design to create a 21st-century business center. Wire-free SMARTair delivered real-time access control to accommodate both regular daily traffic and busy one-off events. Wireless Access Control In Large And Complex Businesses With CLIQ key-based access control, audit trails for every lock, key and padlock are available on demand, so monitoring contractor visits is easy How does the flexible access management, offered by CLIQ, impact day-to-day security? Christophe Nublat, Head of Study & Works Division, Eau de Valence, France: “All the energy is in the key. There is no power supply to the lock, and therefore very little maintenance. Also, electronic and mechanical cylinders are managed by the same key.” The municipal water authority of Valence supplies safe drinking water to 65,000 local residents. It also manages 4 boreholes, a storage unit and 300km of water pipes. With CLIQ key-based access control, audit trails for every lock, key and padlock are available on demand, so monitoring contractor visits is easy. Weekly mandatory key revalidation provides another layer of security. Five of their keys are equipped with CLIQ Remote technology, so supervisors can also update access rights on the move, via Bluetooth. Aperio Wireless Locks-Axis Door Controller Integration The new report picks out ‘integration’ as a growing trend — with an overwhelming majority of survey respondents saying integrated systems are ‘important’ or ‘very important’ at a site. How does integration with ASSA ABLOY Aperio wireless locks benefit AXIS Entry Manager customers? Stephanie Hensler, Business Development Director at Axis Communications: “Axis completed integration of the Aperio RS485 hub with our AXIS A1001 Door Controller. AXIS Entry Manager is our web-based access control system, built into the A1001 Door Controller. Because most users value real-time access, we chose to integrate with an Aperio online hub. Users appreciate how intuitive it is to manage this integrated solution.” Wireless Access Control Is Cost Effective Aperio battery-powered escutcheons and cylinders with card readers are now fully integrated with Pacom’s Unison system Can switching to Aperio wireless access control deliver concrete budget benefits? Magnus Svensson, Infrastructure Manager at Lund University: “Aperio has proven to be very cost effective. We have been able to reduce the time we spend on user management and system administration radically.” After 20 years, Lund University’s Faculty of Law was looking to upgrade its access control system. Aperio battery-powered escutcheons and cylinders with card readers are now fully integrated with Pacom’s Unison system. Aperio locks work with the existing MIFARE smartcards, so there was no need for 42,000 students and 7,500 staff to return their smart-cards for reprogramming, or even to visit update readers to reactivate their permissions. Every door or card is still managed centrally from a single admin interface.

Pulse Secure, global provider of enterprise Secure Access solutions has announced the release of Pulse Policy Secure 9.0 to enable organizations an easier, flexible and VPN-integrated path to next-generation Network Access Control (NAC). The latest release incorporates more than 36 new features and enhancements; advancing visibility, usability, endpoint and IoT security, and threat response capabilities. As a result, enterprises can strengthen their security posture and mitigate malware, data breaches and compliance risks. “With growing attacks, BYOD and data privacy issues, enterprises must get a handle on users, endpoints and IoT devices accessing their network resources,” said Tony Massimini, senior industry analyst at Frost & Sullivan. “Pulse Secure is distinguished by offering the benefits of both pure-play and infrastructure NAC providers. Unlike infrastructure NAC, Pulse Secure is integrated and works with popular switches, wireless, and security infrastructure to facilitate deployment and threat response. Unlike pure-play NAC offerings, Pulse Secure offers VPN and NAC solutions that amalgamate mobile, cloud and network oversight. The combination delivers enterprise value for user, endpoint and IoT visibility, as well as threat response.” Pulse Policy Secure Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) is an enterprise-class NAC solution that delivers network visibility, “comply to connect” policy enforcement and security orchestration Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) is an enterprise-class NAC solution that delivers network visibility, “comply to connect” policy enforcement and security orchestration with popular switch, wireless controller, NGFW, SIEM, EMM and endpoint security solutions. PPS tackles the challenges of securing corporate networks, which are being redefined by Hybrid IT, mobile devices and IoT. Frost & Sullivan predicts that IoT connections will reach 45.4 billion by 2023. IoT brings new exposures as mobile, wearables, medical and other IP-enabled devices are introduced to the corporate network. Policy Secure 9.0 boosts compliance enforcement with broader endpoint discovery mechanisms, vulnerability assessment to prevent malware attacks such as WannaCry, as well as OS and patch management verification to safeguard Windows and macOS devices. Beyond supporting TACACS+ for role-based network device support, the release also streamlines user experience by incorporating host checking caching, directory, authentication and firewall integration techniques to reduce login prompts, authorization and device compliance time. Pule Profiler and Secure 9.0 Pulse Profiler, sold separately or integrated within PPS, automatically identifies managed and unmanaged devices Pulse Profiler, sold separately or integrated within PPS, automatically identifies managed and unmanaged devices (e.g. printers, VOIP phones, cameras) that are connecting to the corporate network. The system dynamically monitors for device profile and security state changes. The new version further extends IoT device discovery, classification and management features with added means to ascertain new and custom IoT devices, and to apply policy for conditional access. Policy Secure 9.0 further enables threat response orchestration. PPS can share identity and endpoint information with popular network and security infrastructure, as well as receive network policy enforcement requests from external solutions. The release extends integration with Palo Alto Networks, Checkpoint, Juniper and Fortinet firewalls to enrich their operational context, as well as to allow the firewall to invoke NAC endpoint network segregation or blocking. IoT Security and Threat Mitigation Organizations understand NAC advantages for visibility, IoT security and threat mitigation" "Organizations understand NAC advantages for visibility, IoT security and threat mitigation, but perceive the technology to be cumbersome. The latest release of Pulse Secure NAC continues to advance our deployment, usability and integration capabilities while delivering enterprise-class functionality,” said Scott Gordon, chief marketing officer at Pulse Secure. “With our unique means to offer a simple, unified NAC and VPN solution, we allow enterprises to gain essential intelligence, compliance and protection for remote, cloud and data center access.” Pulse Secure offers organizations an easy, flexible and scalable path to next generation NAC: Start with the Pulse Profiler for dynamic endpoint and IoT device visibility, assessment, inventory and monitoring Deploy Pulse Policy Secure for automated guest management, mobile on-boarding, endpoint remediation, network enforcement and threat response Streamline implementation with wizard templates and the means to phase in access enforcement, network coverage, and core integrations Scale cost-effectively with the PPS appliance, which includes a high-performance RADIUS server supporting up to 50,000 concurrent devices Centrally manage appliances and over a million endpoints though the Pulse One console Simplify and expedite NAC deployment for Pulse Secure VPN customers by leveraging the same user client, policy framework and centralized management console Network Access Control Solutions The evolution of Network Access Control solutions is critical to the security industry" "We are seeing more IoT deployments especially within our larger clients in healthcare and manufacturing and we welcome the enhancements to Pulse Policy Secure that help to discover and protect a wider array of devices,” said David Hood, MD of ANSecurity, “The evolution of Network Access Control solutions is critical to the security industry and deeper support for next generation firewalls and other security platforms offered by the new 9.0 release will go a long way towards helping organizations to simplify security in what is an increasingly complex infrastructure landscape.”

Siklu Inc., the global supplier of mmWave wireless solutions, has awarded Convergint Technologies, worldwide service-based systems integrator, as their Top Security Systems Integrator Partner in North America in 2017-2018. This decision was based upon the successful partnership between the companies over the past 2 years.  Siklu Wireless Fiber Solutions Siklu’s wireless fiber solutions were chosen by Convergint in a number of video surveillance projects across North America, including University Village in Seattle, the cities of Gardena, Lakewood, Bakersfield and many more. Recent projects include the Columbus International Airport, where Convergint upgraded local area network connectivity by installing Siklu’s multi-gigabit radios in two days. This solution provided interference-free connectivity as a fiber extension throughout inclement weather conditions. A broad selection of Siklu mmWave wireless products with a range of frequencies and distances are supported in the partnership, including P2P as well as P2MP, leveraging narrow beams in the uncongested frequency bands of 60-70/80 GHz, which are immune to heavy Wi-Fi signals. Transmitting high bandwidth information across security networks, the mmWave solutions are ideal for mission critical and smart cities deployments that demand secured always-on connectivity. We are extremely pleased with the overall performance of Siklu’s solutions" mmWave Wireless Products “We are extremely pleased with the overall performance of Siklu’s solutions,” said Tony Varco, VP Security Division at Convergint. “Our customers increasingly demand advanced solutions that perform at a high level combined with a low cost of ownership, and Siklu’s technology delivers in both areas. They offer a scalable, high-capacity wireless solution without compromising reliability and enables Convergint to continue to deliver high-quality service.” “We’re pleased to work with Convergint as one of our leading security partners,” said Eyal Assa, CEO of Siklu. “Siklu expands the infrastructure offering for Convergint customers, enabling them to benefit from industry-leading performance to create a network which is ready for the next generation of IoT.”

There’s almost no installation that goes 100-percent smoothly in the field of video surveillance. Unexpected issues routinely arise that can increase time on the job, cost of the project and frustration. Manufacturers work on the product side to help ensure their products are easy to install and – when troublesome situations do arise – are flexible enough for installers to quickly find a remedy. Importance Of Ease Of InstallationEase of installation is a very important part of the project to the system integrator because the cost of labor is variable  Ease of installation is a very important part of the project to the system integrator because the cost of labor is variable and can be very expensive. In some cases, the cost of labor to install a camera can be more than the cost of the camera! If labor costs are high – or are more expensive than a system integrator planned – they can lose a great deal of money on a project. If a cautious system integrator includes too high of an estimate for labor in a project bid, his overall bid will to high and it could cost him the project. The easier the camera is to install, the lower the labor cost, subsequently achieving higher savings for end-users. Hence it is essential that camera manufacturers develop products that are easy to install or are flexible in the field for system integrators and installers who know that time is money. Enterprise projects can involve thousands of cameras installed Simplifying Installation Of Cameras Camera installation typically involves an electrician, the camera installer and the person who configures the VMS (Video Management Software). Of course, one person can play all three roles, and in many cases, does, but enterprise projects can involve dozens, hundreds or even thousands of cameras with teams of individuals involved in an installation. The electrician runs conduit with an electrical or PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection to the housing or the backplate of the camera; the installer then installs the camera at that location, hooking it up to power; and then a configurator adds cameras to the network and makes adjustments – renaming the camera, setting the frame rate, enabling WDR (Wide Dynamic Range), and the like. When it’s a project that involves different players for any of these functions, there is the potential for a bottleneck and delay in project completion. And if a system integrator is paying an electrician, installer and software configurator – and they are all three on site waiting for each other to finish – that’s a system integrator’s worst-case scenario. Enhancement Through Modular Cameras Video surveillance camera manufacturers like Hanwha Techwin are producing products that take different roles  Video surveillance camera manufacturers like Hanwha Techwin are producing products that take the different roles of electrician, installer and configurator into consideration, allowing them to complete their tasks independently. With a focus on modular design which includes a USB Dongle, a device manager, magnetic module and included accessories, the Wisenet X series Plus is one of the fastest cameras to install, service and upgrade – saving installers time and money. Wisenet X series Plus cameras have a detachable camera module that utilize magnets to lock into the housing for instant configuration. Electricians can run conduit with a single PoE connection to the back plate/housing while the configurator is working on configuring the camera module, allowing security professionals to later snap the camera into place in just minutes. The VMS configurator can then come and add the cameras to the network and program their functionality. Modular Cameras Offer Flexibility  In the past, an end user might determine after the camera is installed that there aren’t enough pixels on target, or they need certain different functions like video analytics for example, resulting in the time-consuming replacement of the entire camera. With modular-designed cameras, the camera module can be swapped with a new one without having to focus or replace the camera – even to change the resolution or field of view, also Wisenet X series Plus has optional PTRZ modules that can be remotely adjusted to the field of view and the position of the camera lens. Making camera adjustments in the field is also now easier and perhaps even safer. Installers have been known to climb a ladder and juggle a bulky laptop to access the network to be able to see video of how the camera is positioned. Or they’ve had to use analog video output to view the video feed on a separate monitor which provides the field of view, but not megapixel quality. Using a smartphone, the installer can wirelessly see full and not cropped quality video directly from the camera Wisenet X series Plus cameras have a USB port that allows installers to connect it to a small dongle that converts the camera to a Wi-Fi device. Using a smartphone, the installer can wirelessly see full and not cropped quality video directly from the camera. It’s a much easier way to evaluate video while at the camera. Eliminating the second person looking at live view on a computer guiding through a cellphone to the installer to accurately point the camera to the proper position. If system integrators can do some of the legwork prior to even getting on site, it can reduce cost and improve efficiency. Imagine having 300 cameras ready to send to a project site. To configure those cameras, a system integrator has to take each camera out of the box, plug each into a switch, configure it, take it off of the switch and put it back in the box. To improve this process, camera manufacturers have now developed packaging that provides access to the camera port without even having to remove it from the box. It’s an innovative solution that saves time. Modular cameras have optional PTRZ modules that can be remotely adjusted to the field of view Software Programs Help In Enhancing Installation Whether it’s a one-man show or a team of electricians, installers and configurators, software programs can greatly enhance the installation process. Device managers are important tools in adding multiple cameras to a project. Using that 300-camera project, for example, it’s easier when a manufacturer has a device manager that allows the mass programming and configuration of cameras. Adding 300 cameras one by one is time consuming and leaves room for error when making so many multiple entries. A device manager should be able to scan the network and locate its devices, allowing them to be grouped, configured and much more. Every video surveillance camera project is going to have its ups and downs. But camera manufacturers can do their part in the production process to address the many issues known to slow down progress. It’s impressive that many are taking the lead in producing innovations like modular camera design, flexibility in the field and accessible packaging that can truly reduce installation cost and improve efficiency.

Wireless surveillance systems are attractive to customersas they are cost-effective and easy to install Various studies, market statistics and forecasts project growth for the surveillance market from 2016 to 2020. Besides needs ranging from traditional analog cameras to IP network cameras, more and more consumers also have a high interest in intelligent surveillance systems. Along with safety, these systems provide additional details for users in applications such as people counting and object tracking. As terrorist attacks become more serious, people and governments are eager to find solutions to prevent incidents and protect safety and property. Therefore, with the increased demand for security products, surveillance companies are pushing themselves to launch more innovative and higher quality products for customers to satisfy a variety of needs. Wired vs. Wireless Surveillance System Surveillance applications can be separated into two types – wired surveillance systems and wireless systems. An original wired surveillance system requires much more equipment to complete an entire system, such as switches and cables. However, wireless surveillance systems are attractive to customers as they are easy to install and also save the cost of wiring. Hence, more and more consumers tend to search for wireless surveillance solutions for their flexibility and cost effectiveness. What Are WiFi, 3G and 4G? Before introducing wireless surveillance systems, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the differences among WiFi, 3G and 4G. WiFi is a local area wireless computer networking technology that allows electronic devices to network without cords or cables. WiFi is based on the IEEE802.11 network standard, and different protocols will provide different features. WiFi mainly uses the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz ISM radio bands. Meanwhile, the data transfer is protected and encrypted by WPA and WPA2 security standards, and the EAP authentication standard. WiFi could be the most popular wireless communication protocol, which can be used for indoor and outdoor applications. Differences between WiFi, 3G and LTE (4G) 3G is short for third generation, which means the third generation of mobile telecommunications technology. 3G telecommunication networks support services that provide an information transfer rate up to 700 kbps (3.5G uplink 5.7Mbps). Unlike WiFi service, which users access through networking hotspots, users of 3G must be subscribed to a service provider to get network connectivity. Most devices connect to the 3G network through their SIM card or a 3G data card. In contrast to 3G, WiFi has a distance limitation; the device must stay close to the access point to ensure network connectivity. However, 3G transmission is broader; as long as there is a signal, the device can connect to the network easily. 4G (LTE) is the fourth generation of mobile telecommunications technology. LTE stands for Long Term Evolution. It’s a term used for a particular type of 4G that delivers the fastest mobile Internet experience. 4G is ideally suited for services that demand more capacity, such as video streaming, mapping and social networking. Compared with 3G, users are able to have up-to-date information faster than ever, regardless of upload or download data. 4G means that a network offers peak data rates of at least 100 Mbps for high-mobility communication like users in cars or trains, etc., and at least 1 Gbps for low mobility communication such as pedestrians and stationary users. Wireless Surveillance System Advantages Wireless surveillance combines wireless transmission with network video surveillance to create a powerful solution that overcomes the challenges that prevent many people from installing surveillance and monitoring systems. These challenges can include distance, lack of network infrastructure, environmental conditions, and costs. Wireless systems can overcome these obstacles and work exceptionally well for monitoring separate building units or rural areas where there is a long distance between two sites. There are also numerous add-ons for wireless systems.   Wireless surveillance systems perfectly protect the structural integrity and maintaina building’s beauty without sacrificing safety Cost-Effective: Wire-Free Wireless surveillance systems are an undeniably cost-effective solution for the users, not only saving the material cost but also the time of installation and maintenance. Implementing a wired surveillance system can be a massive issue for installers and also extremely time consuming due to various challenges of placement. Therefore, a wireless IP surveillance system can offer a more affordable solution for the user, and this financial benefit can continue for a couple of years after the installation through maintenance cost savings. Building Protection And Aesthetic Wireless installations keep the building’s aesthetic appearance intact as users do not have to worry about wires and the means to conceal them. Instead, users can enjoy a safe environment with an aesthetic and clean placement. Wireless surveillance systems perfectly protect the structural integrity and maintain a building’s beauty without sacrificing safety. For users who have these particular kinds of surveillance needs, wireless solutions can perfectly match their expectations. Flexible And Scalable: Less Infrastructure Limitation For an environment that lacks a complete infrastructure, it would be difficult to build a wired surveillance system. Digging and burying a fiber network may not be desirable for all locations, such as historical monuments, farms, parking lots or wilderness. However, a wireless solution can conquer this challenge by using a wireless infrastructure for connectivity. Cameras do not need to be permanently located next to a wired network; instead, they can be set up anywhere as long as the signal can be reached. Moreover, wireless solutions are available for even the largest scale deployments, and are also available in ruggedised enclosures for deployment in all weather conditions. Meanwhile, the entire wireless surveillance system setup can be moved to a new location easily and quickly. Conclusion Consumers have more and more excellent options when it comes to wireless surveillance security systems. Wireless systems now offer complete functionality, flexibility, and ease of use compared to wired system. The innovative technology promises users a better and safer living environment, and surveillance companies will continue developing more valuable products and solutions.

Any wireless device can be a soft target for hackers Security network hacking is one of the hottest topics today. The ability to access security systems or devices anywhere, leaves them vulnerable and prone to hacking. Any wireless device can be a soft target for hackers. Let’s start with the concept that nothing on a network is really secure. Let’s admit this to ourselves and take the next steps to make our security networks more secure. Internet of Things Security We all want our networks to be the network of everything. We want to be able to access our security systems everywhere. We want to view cameras, receive alarms, get notifications on our cell phones or from access points that are not our own. We want to cut the cable with wireless transmission. All of these are just an invitation to make our systems less secure. We demand more security and blame camera manufacturers, video management systems (VMS) or network video recorders (NVR); at the same time, we want to pay less. We want the convenience of accessing everything over the Web and mostly using the Internet. Closed Network Security Systems No one is safe. In June, antivirus software provider Kaspersky Lab was hacked. Most of our security devices protect themselves with user names and passwords, and in most cases these are ineffective. The real protection is to limit access to a system as much as possible. In a typical network system, we have cameras connected to a network switch fed to a recording device usually in the form of a video server or NVR. The first question is: How much exposure do I really need? Video security used to be referred to as CCTV – closed circuit television. Sometimes, it still is. The key word is “closed.” Why not think about network video security systems as CNSS or “closed network security systems?” Every access point on a network has a potential for hacking. Once a security system is hacked, anything is possible. Studies have shown that hackers can exchange real video feeds from cameras for fake ones. It’s a variation on what used to be cutting the video cord or masking the lens in the analog days. So what can you do to prevent your system from being hacked? Create A Separate Network Let’s start with the obvious, make it a CNSS. This can be as political as it is technical, given that governance of security systems is shifting from the security department to IP directors who want to centralize their control. Next are the common sense approaches. If you can access IP devices by pinging them from any point outside your system, it is an open door for hackers. Every access point on a network has a potential for hacking. Once a security system is hacked, anything is possible Disable Common Access Port 80 which is most commonly used for Internet traffic should especially be disabled. Most network switches have the ability to be accessed with the help of a function called Telenet using ports 21 and 23 – disable these as well. Create Your Own Unique Subnet And IP Address An IP address is basically a 32-bit number that can range from 0 to 429496794, and has the potential to create about 4.3 billion unique addresses. Keep in mind, we are dealing with our own CNSS, so concerns about conflicts outside the network don’t exist. For example, if you are using an address of 192.168.1.xxx, with a subnet of 255.255.255.0, any IP address starting with 192.168.1 will be able to access devices on your network. Do You Really Need A Layer 3 switch? Keep in mind that “layering” as it pertains to network switches is primarily a marketing term and not a standard. The major difference in what we can consider a Layer 2-plus and Layer 3 is routing. A router routes IP packets among IP networks, which in our case makes it a major point of exposure. Think about routing in terms of Google. You ask a question, send it out and it crosses hundreds, perhaps thousands of access points on different networks until it is finally received at its destination, is responded to and is transmitted back to your computer over hundreds or thousands of additional access points. All of these cross different subnets over Wide Area Networks. Do you really need to have your system exposed to this for the privilege of paying more for Layer 3 capability as opposed to Layer 2? Most network switches have the ability to be accessed with the help of a function called Telenet using ports 21 and 23 – disable these as well User Names And Passwords They give us a sense of security, but in reality names and passwords are probably the least secure method. We now know that Android phones can be easily hacked without requiring the user to view a message or open an attachment. In doing so, all your information is exposed, including the phone application that allows you to view your security system. While a fix exists, due to the open source nature of Android it will be significantly more difficult to secure in comparison to single sources such as iOS. Network Switching - Most Critical Point The network switch is a gathering point for your security system. Once you have created your own network, removed access from outside networks by disabling common port access and avoided the use of routers or Layer 3 switches, you can take additional steps to internally secure your system. One of the most common and effective methods is the use of internal system MAC (Media Access Control) addressing. It is unique to each product that is IP-enabled. Your computer, cell phone and every component of your IP-based security system has a unique MAC address. Select a managed switch whose programming allows you to secure your system using MAC addressing. Your cameras can be connected to specific switch ports using MAC addressing, thus preventing them from unauthorized changes. Most importantly, the MAC address of the client computer can be tied to the switch to prevent outside or even internal access. This feature is known as MAC locking and is directly related to MAC lockouts, which disables unauthorized MAC addresses from gaining access. In the end, the decision as to how you construct your system network is up to you. Regardless of how attractive, the use of cell phones or the thought that Layer 3 must be better than Layer 2 switching are just invitations to hack your system. Every access point is another open door. Maybe it’s time to reconsider the meaning of “Closed Circuit.”

Open Options, based in Addison, Texas, provides a truly open access control architecture that will strengthen the ACRE portfolio and increase the breadth of solutions offered by the global provider of security systems. The acquisition of Open Options is also an opportunity for ACRE to focus on growth opportunities in North America and “balance the scales a bit,” says Joe Grillo, CEO of ACRE, which significantly grew its reach in Europe, the Middle East and Africa with the acquisition of Siemens Security Products in 2015. “Open Options is also a company that's growing, is profitable and fits seamlessly into our vision for the access control space in which we operate,” says Grillo. Independent Operations The strength of Open Options in the Southwest provides significant additional coverage for ACRE in that region of the United States The Open Options brand will continue to operate independently under the ACRE umbrella. Open Options CEO and Founder Steve Fisher will continue in his role as leader of the company, says Grillo. “There is a strong and competent management team in place that will continue to provide leadership going forward.” Open Options’ open-architecture access control solutions will add value to the solutions ACRE already offers under the Vanderbilt brand. In a market that has traditionally been proprietary, the open-platform solution offered by Open Options helps deliver more opportunity to offer customers a full-scale solution based on their needs, says Grillo. In addition, due to its origin as a Texas-based company, the strength of Open Options in the Southwest provides significant additional coverage for ACRE in that region of the United States. Technical And Financial Resources On the other hand, ACRE provides a greater level of technical and financial resources that Open Options can utilize to help them grow even faster. These resources were not as available to the company if it remained independent, Grillo notes. ACRE’s divestiture of Mercury Security in 2017 facilitated this investment. As discussions began earlier this year, ACRE realized the potential of adding to its access control portfolio in the North American market, says Grillo. Open Options and Mercury have been "partners" for 20 years; Mercury provides hardware panels for Open Options systems. Each company will manage and make decisions about their reseller channels independently “The Mercury brand continues to be a strong one, so we're interested in continuing to nurture that relationship, and in fact we have become a larger and stronger partner to Mercury as ACRE,” says Grillo. “After owning Mercury for a number of years, we had the understanding of the company, the product portfolio and the partner relationships that defined it, so we were confident that the deal would be a positive one for the ACRE brand.” Meeting Customer Needs “Open Options and Vanderbilt share some customers already and we can leverage that by gaining more share of their business while providing them with a portfolio that will meet a broader set of customer needs,” says Grillo. “Where possible, we can look for synergies in channel partners that are not currently shared to provide access to both brands. This will be a benefit to Open Options, Vanderbilt and our customer base. However, importantly, each company will manage and make decisions about their reseller channels independently.” Are there more acquisitions on the horizon for ACRE? “We're always looking for opportunities that fit into the nature of our business,” says Grillo. “Companies that have growth potential and share similar go-to-market strategies and visions for the future are of particular interest to ACRE. "We're still operating in a highly fragmented market, so we're going to see continued consolidation in both access control and beyond, which means ACRE will be looking for the right opportunities to follow along that path.”

Security is more-than-ever linked to consumer electronics, especially in the residential/smart home market. CES 2018 in Las Vegas is therefore brimming with news that will have a direct impact on the security market, today and especially looking into the future. Products for the future of security   CES is a giant trade show for consumer electronics with 2.75 million net square feet of exhibitor space and featuring more than 3,900 exhibitors, including 900 startups - in contrast, ISC West has some 1,000 exhibitors. During the week-long show welcoming 170,000-plus attendees from 150 countries, more than 20,000 new products are being launched. The products incorporate ingredient technologies such as artificial intelligence and 5G that will also be familiar elements as the future of the security industry unfolds. Familiar players at security shows also have a presence at CES, and many consumer technologies on display offer a glimpse of what’s ahead for security The areas of consumer electronics and security are closely intertwined. For example, Apple recently expanded near-field communication (NFC) support to include the NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format), which will likely accelerate the adoption of smartphones for access control credentialing. In another recent development, Amazon acquired Blink, a home security camera startup that offers wireless home security systems. The acquisition aligns with Amazon’s effort to offer more home devices. Key Security Technologies At CES 2018 Familiar players at security shows also have a presence at CES. For example, Bosch is highlighting its “Simply. Connected” portfolio of smart city technology to transform security as well as urban mobility, air quality and energy efficiency. Many consumer technologies on display offer a glimpse of what’s ahead for security. Are Panasonic’s 4K OLEDs with HDR10+ format or Sony’s A8F OLED televisions a preview of the future of security control room monitors? At CES, Johnson Controls is announcing support for Apple HomeKit now offered in their DSC iotega wireless security and automation solution. Consumers can manage both their security system and also other home automation abilities using Apple’s Home app, or Siri on their iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch. Interlogix is announcing new features and components of its UltraSync SmartHome system, including hands-free voice control, high-definition cameras, an LTE cellular module and soon-to-be-released doorbell camera. The areas of consumer electronics and security are closely intertwined Developments In Crime Awareness ADT has a high profile at CES, including the launch of its ADT Go mobile app, equipped with 24/7 emergency response from ADT’s live monitoring agents and backed by Life360’s location technology, providing emergency response, family connectivity, safety assistance and crime awareness.  ADT is also unveiling a video doorbell and expanding its monitoring to cybersecurity. IC Realtime is introducing Ella, a cloud-based deep-learning search engine that augments surveillance systems with natural language search capabilities across recorded video footage. Ella enables any surveillance or security cameras to recognise objects, colours, people, vehicles and animals. Ella was designed using the technology backbone of Camio, a startup founded by ex-Googlers who designed a simpler way to apply searching to streaming video feeds. It’s a “Google for video:” Users can type in queries such as “white truck” to find every relevant video clip. Smarter homes and smarter computers Do-it-yourself smart home security company Abode Systems announces iota, an all-in-one system giving customers more freedom and flexibility to build out and monitor their smart home. The new form factor has a built-in full-HD resolution camera enabling customers to see and hear what’s going on in their home 24/7 while a built-in gateway supports hundreds of devices to make homes more convenient, safer and more secure. There is also support for Apple HomeKit. Highly programmable and high-performance platforms will no doubt play a role in the future of video surveillance systems in our market  The Z-Wave Alliance will host 30-plus leading smart home brands in the Z-Wave pavilion at CES. A full walk-through home will demonstrate different brands working together to create one cohesive smart home experience. Sigma Designs unveils its 700-Series Z-Wave platform, including numerous performance and technology enhancements in energy-efficiency and RF performance. Personal protection in attendance Self-defence product company SABRE will debut a combination pepper spray with dual sound-effect personal alarm that “alternates between the traditional wailing sound and a primal scream, while a strobe blinks 19 times per second to disorient assailants.” SABRE’s Modern Fake Security Camera includes “sleek, realistic design to deter would-be thieves.” Chip maker Ambarella is introducing the CV1 4K Stereovision Processor with CFflow Computer Vision Architecture. The chip combines environmental perception with advances in deep neural network processing for a variety of applications, including video security cameras and fully autonomous drones. At CES, applications will focus on automotive uses, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), self-driving, electronic mirror and surround view systems. The highly programmable and high-performance platform will no doubt play a role in the future of video surveillance systems in our market. A full walk-through home will demonstrate different brands working together to create one cohesive smart home experience Extending home security and efficiency  The Ring whole-house security ecosystem creates a “Ring of Security” around homes and neighbourhoods. Products include “Stick Up” indoor/outdoor security cameras, integrated LED lighting, a “Ring Alarm” integrated bundle for $199 including a base station, keypad, contact sensor, and Z-Wave extender. “Ring Protect Plans” include 24/7 professional monitoring. The “Streety” phone app, from Vivint Smart Home, extends home security into the neighbourhood. Streety makes it easy for neighbours to monitor neighbourhood activity through a network of shared residential cameras. They can keep an eye on kids, cars and property through live video feeds and use recorded video clips to investigate incidents. A new device making its debut at CES is the Walker “commercialised biped robot,” from UBTECH Robotics, which provides a complete home butler service and is designed to ease the day-to-day operations of a busy home or office. The varied of functions includes video surveillance monitoring, security patrol monitoring, motion detection and “instant alarm,” as well as dancing and playing games with children. The company says Walker will “bridge the gap between technologies that were once only available in scientific research institutions and everyday people.”

Cybersecurity has been getting much more attention lately in the physical security market. One company ready to address cybersecurity of IP video products is DVTEL. The Israeli company’s roots in IT and networking make it a logical choice to take a lead in cyber-defense of IP video systems. DVTEL’s core research and development (R&D) in Israel includes cyber-defense expertise. DVTEL’s Cyber-Defense Plan In fact, DVTEL is moving fast to implement its cyber-defense plan – which it calls the IP-mmune Cyber-Defense Suite – throughout its product line. Cyber-defense is a requirement as basic (and as necessary) as a computer password, says Yoav Stern, DVTEL’s President and CEO. “We decided to take the initiative,” he says. (Stern prefers the term cyber-defense; he says there’s no such thing as “cyber-secure” – it’s an ongoing process.) "Cyber-defense is a new requirement in today’s market, not a selling point or feature but a critical element of the environment where systems today operate", says Yoav Stern, DVTEL’s President and CEO IP-mmune is composed of several existing technologies from the IT world, which have been adapted specifically to the video environment, addressing needs such as the requirement to maintain fast data speeds to achieve real-time video. Technologies include port scanning and password-protected gate blockers throughout the system, and a "sand box” in the client software protects the main system from viruses. Additional cyber-defense enhancements will include video encryption and stringent measures related to cloud and wireless components. Slow Implementation Of Cybersecurity Cyber-defense has been a priority in the IT arena for decades, says Stern, and now is the time for physical security to catch up. “For 27 years, cyber-defense has been the environment where you operate in the IT world,” says Stern. In contrast, analog video, and even IP systems that were self-contained and only involved recording and real-time video transmission, were mostly immune to concerns about cybersecurity, so it was ignored. Also contributing to slower implementation of cybersecurity in video systems has been the industry’s single-minded mission to expand functionality and increase performance. “The whole industry, including the channel, are ex-analog people,” adds Stern. In fact, the overarching emphasis in the market has been on developing systems, processes and applications for IP video. Addressing the cyber-defense aspect requires a completely different skillset, and improving cyber-defense has even historically been seen as detrimental to system performance. “Performance and real-time video depend on free passage through firewalls,” says Stern. Risks With Cybersecurity However, as video systems have merged into enterprise networks, the cybersecurity dangers have heightened. Today, says Stern, “IP video is a black hole that could suck bad elements into the IT systems.” Lack of cybersecurity has also historically been an obstacle to inclusion of video on enterprise networks. Much-discussed concerns about video being a “bandwidth hog” have mostly overshadowed the other, equally daunting obstacle, which is that systems have not been safe and secure from cyber-attacks. So what makes this the right time to take on cyber-defense? Not only are networks converging, but video is also being used in new ways that demand that it be accessible throughout the enterprise, says Stern. To meet the huge demand on the horizon for wireless and mobile systems, the market must get its act together related to cyber-defense, he adds. Cyber-defense is a new requirement in today’s market, not a selling point or feature but a critical element of the environment where systems today operate, says Stern. “IT will take over, and if security wants to keep control of their business, they need to be able to tell the IT people that nothing can leak from the IP video environment, that it is protected.” DVTEL Plans To Implement IP-mmune In Existing Systems In addition to being installed on all systems moving forward, DVTEL says the IP-mmune suite could be implemented on existing systems, based on response in the market. IP-mmune will be maintained through the cloud, as part of DVTEL’s cloud services that measure and manage the health of video systems, including system audits. DVTEL cloud services will remotely identify problems, send alerts and provide analysis. DVTEL United VMS 7.0 For ISC West 2015 At ISC West, DVTEL is releasing United VMS 7.0, which can tie together any existing or new Latitude, Horizon and/or Meridian VMS systems into a unified whole with a new user interface. Also introduced will be a new Command and Control (CC) web and mobile client. Sleek, modern design approximate the user experience of a mobile app, including use of drag and pinch and browsing with a finger, basically mimicking the intuitive experience of using a smart phone. The company will also emphasize its cutting-edge technology at the network edge, including Quasar Quad HD cameras, and 4K Certified Solutions. “We are moving to one scalable system that is cloud-based and can scale to any size,” Stern says.

H-Farm has a strong track record supporting innovation and creativity in European start-ups. The company focuses on skills development, new approaches to education and digital transformation. Its most recent transformation project involved an access control system — for its own offices. H-Farm needed a solution to streamline access management for lots of people at a growing portfolio of sites and buildings. H-Farm experiences rapid turnover of users, both because new businesses join regularly and because they organize up to 300 events every year. Battery-powered locks Any new locks would need to extend an existing Axis system, but without adding complexity for day-to-day administration. To meet their needs, H-Farm selected a combination of Aperio® handles, security locks and escutcheons, each easy to retrofit, so day-to-day work at their busy offices would not be disrupted by intrusive installation. So far, 40 Aperio® Online H100 wireless door handles, 6 Aperio® Online L100 wireless locks and 4 Aperio® Online E100 wireless escutcheons have been fitted across multiple H-Farm locations in northern Italy. All Aperio® battery-powered locks are wireless, so no ugly cabling runs to H-Farm’s doors. Because Aperio® offers wide range of battery-powered devices, H-Farm can choose the precise wireless lock for every application: the L100 lock protects doors with high security demands; robust H100 handles suit interior doors with high traffic. Wireless access control Aperio® H100 enables customers to add doors to their access control solution because cost per door is lower H-Farm interior doors are mostly secured with the new Aperio® H100 wireless handle — Intersec’s Access Control Product of the Year in 2018. The Aperio® H100 packs the flexibility and affordability of Aperio® wireless access control into a slim, cleverly designed door handle. Its standard battery slots inside the handle, ensuring a minimal footprint. ASSA ABLOY’s device design team incorporated electronics into the handle lever on the outside of the door, without jeopardizing security. Design has become a major feature of the H100’s appeal. H-Farm wanted devices to blend with the contemporary architecture of their new €101m H-Campus development. “Aperio® wireless access control hardware is solid, nice looking and perfectly fits our environment — solving our access problem,” says Alberto Aldrigo at H-Farm. The H100 and other Aperio® devices are easy to install; for the H100, basically two screws complete the job. Going forward, this will enable H-Farm to quickly bring new buildings into the same access system as they expand to fresh locations. The H100 fits around 90% of target doors with two main models: one for left-handled doors, the other right-handed. “The Aperio® H100 also enables customers to add more doors to their access control solution because the cost per door is lower,” says Tania Amico, Aperio® Sales Manager at ASSA ABLOY Italy. Seamless integration H-Farm managers want to control access to site doors, or bring entirely new premises into their access system The open architecture underpinning Aperio® devices enabled easy online integration with their existing Axis system via PRYSM AppControl. Remote operation from a single, central software interface is seamless, which makes administering the system easy. “The PRYSM AppControl software utilizes the integration Axis completed with Aperio®,” says Piergianni Marana, Key Account Manager at Axis. “And the AXIS A1001 Door Controller is based on open hardware, which makes installing and configuring an Aperio® wireless lock easy and seamless.” An Aperio® RS-485 Hub coordinates up to 8 Aperio® locks within a typical range of 15 to 25 meters, communicating with the admin system via the powerful AXIS A1001 IP Network Controller. One AXIS A1001 Door Controller can manage one wired door and one Aperio® hub, up to 9 doors per hub. AES 128-bit encryption ensures communication between lock and system is secure. Online Aperio® integration gives facility managers real-time status information about their premises. Aperio® locks are wireless, so there was no expensive or time-consuming cabling. The AXIS A1001 uses Power over Ethernet (PoE), which eliminates the need for power cables to the controllers, too. If needs change at a facility — perhaps H-Farm managers want to control access to more site doors, or bring entirely new premises into their access system — it’s quick, efficient and easy for an installer to fit Aperio® locks and integrate the doors with the AXIS Entry Manager control panel. To discover whether your existing security system is ready for wireless Aperio® locks, download a free, fast Compatibility Checker at https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/aperio-upgrade

SMARTair® Wireless Online access management has proven a simple, school-wide electronic solution for greater control and security at Westbridge. Each staff member carries one RFID credential card programmed with access rights personalized to their individual role. In an emergency, the school can institute a complete lockdown via the centralized system. “Having a SMARTair® system in place has given us peace of mind. It’s quicker, it’s safer and it’s simple,” says Joanna Brunton, Executive Officer at Westbridge School. The school’s teaching, administration and residential buildings require multiple layers of access control, for both staff and students. The inflexibility of a legacy mechanical locking system had presented facility management and pupil safety challenges for years.“With over 50 staff, we needed more subtlety in assigning access permissions, which you simply can’t do with a bundle of metal keys,” explains Joanna Brunton, Westbridge School’s Executive Officer. New access system The system would need to be installed over the holidays for minimal disruption to the school’s busy calendar Beyond replacing and upgrading outmoded, inflexible mechanical key security, Westbridge had a number of requirements for its new access system. Devices in the new, unified system would replace piecemeal mechanical locking on 80+ doors around the site. School leaders wanted access control already proven in the field, with a track record of successful installations managing access in schools worldwide. New electronic locks must provide a real-time audit trail, so facility managers always know which doors are opened by which staff cards. The new system would also need to work within the school’s security budget — and be installed over the holidays, for minimal disruption to the school’s busy calendar. "We essentially had a safety and security need,” adds Joanna Brunton. “We needed to be able to discourage students from going where they didn’t need to be on site or redirect a student who was in a heightened state from re-entering a classroom and potentially disrupting the class or causing damage.” Wireless and battery operated SMARTair® solution has done everything we wanted it to do in terms of safety, security and monitoring" System administration is easy even for non-specialists. “I taught staff how to use the software and encode access cards,” says Kylie Bray, director at Western Lock Services, who have long managed hardware maintenance for Westbridge. “If a staff member loses their card, you can go straight in and delete it." The intuitive SMARTair® system software can open or secure individual zones, connecting to individual locks via a network of 9 hubs. “We now have the ability to set higher security for specific areas of our site, especially over the school holidays when students have gone home,” says Joanna Brunton. “Our regular maintenance contractors have their own access keys, so they just get straight on with their work without calling us to meet them for access. This keeps our time, and their costs, down. SMARTair® door devices are wireless and battery operated. Because there’s no need to run cabling to individual doors, installation was fast and cost-efficient. From a facilities management point of view, the solution has done everything we wanted it to do in terms of safety, security and monitoring,” adds Joanna.

Comelit 4 camera wireless CCTV system has been selected on site at the iconic, Grade II listed Chichester Cathedral, to protect the retail area and provide 24x7 high-quality monitoring capability and extra peace of mind for staff. Wireless CCTV surveillance This magnificent Cathedral has stood at the center of Chichester for over 900 years. With unique architecture from each century of its life, this Cathedral is both ancient and modern, where original medieval features sit alongside world famous contemporary artworks. Any works needed to consider the sensitivities of working in such a historic building. Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image A representative from Chichester Cathedral commented, “When it came to upgrading CCTV for the retail area, we contacted Envisage Technology Ltd who recommended Comelit’s 4 camera wireless CCTV system. It has proven to be the perfect solution, with the system proving simple to install. Staff now have access to monitors by the till points that also act as a significant visual deterrent. The high-quality images available add extra peace of mind.” Four camera wireless CCTV Kevin Brown, Managing Director, Envisage Technology added, “Chichester Cathedral is one of the most prestigious visitor sites in West Sussex. Comelit’s wireless CCTV specification, coming from such a renowned brand, provided the necessary infrastructure to embrace the need for delicate installation, minimizing the need to run cables, and still provide the high-quality footage. We can support the ongoing maintenance process to ensue volunteers, customers and staff are kept safe and secure.” Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image. Installed outside of opening hours to avoid disruption to the retail environment, monitors were positioned directly by the till points, enabling staff to have full visual access of the complete area at all times.  Retail surveillance Tim Edmonds, Comeilt CCTV Manager concluded, “The retail area, established in such a significant Cathedral is a great example of how Comelit’s wireless CCTV system can be used to protect any environment.”  “Working with Envisage, the solution was presented as a simple, yet effective option, installed with absolutely no impact on the surrounding building. The result is a powerful visual deterrent and peace of mind that staff in store, and in back offices can keep an eye on operations quickly and easily, on a 24x7 basis.”

In the aging trend of 21th century with rapid aging population and high healthcare costs are creating a growing demand for care at home, especially for seniors with long-term health conditions. Home care is moving towards tele-health monitoring and telemedicine, including video conferencing and remote monitoring technology to help increase caregiver efficiency while still providing constant convenience to the patients. Living independently and aging gracefully are the ideals that every individual seeks to pursue, and the challenge is to ensure that all people can age with dignity and security. Climax’s GX Cubic Smart Care Medical Alarm is an all-in-one wellness, and personal safety medical alarm solution, designed to help the elderly to manage their long-term health conditions, bridging medical health monitoring information to care providers/hospitals and create points of care to keep them safe in their own homes. GX Cubic medical alarm GX Cubic can be flexibly connected with third-party Bluetooth (BLE) healthcare sensors GX Cubic can be flexibly connected with third-party Bluetooth (BLE) healthcare sensors, like blood glucose monitor, pulse oximeter, blood pressure monitor, or weight for tracking health data and providing customized alerts to meet individual needs. The measurements can be automatically sent to a health professional who can review the results and continuously keep an eye on the patient’s health needs and provide early treatment as necessary. In addition to medical health monitoring, GX Cubic is also compatible with Pivotell Advance Automatic Pill Dispenser to keep secure of all pills, and remind the user to take the correct medicine at the pre-set time. The solution allows health professionals to monitor pill taking timely results and keep an eye on the patients’ treatment as needed. For situation when remote monitoring care given is insufficient and the user requires onsite assistance, GX Cubic can raise an emergency alarm to inform the caregiver or medical personnel for immediate action. Seniors can be assured that they are always being taken care of, and provide their family members with a peace of mind. Voice recognition solution Voice recognition has innovated over time and continues to advance, allowing products to become even more intuitive and easier to use. GX Cubic has built-in voice recognition and can activate an emergency call to care provider or central monitoring center by preset vocal commands or keywords. This allows seniors to receive emergency attention even in situations where they are immobilized or cannot manually reach the panic button. Working with the leading voice ecosystems Amazon Alexa and Google Home via cloud, GX Cubic also features voice control to activate home electronic devices, complete daily tasks, and seek help during emergencies. Voice over Internet Protocol With the VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) feature, GX Cubic users can also initiate two-way voice callsWith the VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) feature, GX Cubic users can also initiate two-way voice calls to contact their caregivers or family members at any time. With the additional add-on of DECT, GX Cubic can pair with voice extenders, talking pendants, call points, and voice extenders placed strategically around the home to create a safety net. Smart Home Automation Comprehensive elderly-friendly health care should also have a focus on preventive action to maintain a healthy ageing process. To realize independent living in a smart way, GX Cubic pairs with Zigbee or Z-Wave sensors to enable the whole-home control with various protocol-of-choice. GX Cubic can be programmed to turn on the hallway lights automatically when a sensor reports a senior’s movement in the middle of the night, to reduce a chance of falling; or automatically adjusting air conditioning when there is a sudden temperature-drop. The scenarios are unlimited to fit individual requirements, ensuring a safest living experience for the senior users. GX Cubic can also integrate IP security cameras and camera PIR motion sensors to deliver real-time visual monitoring and verification. When an emergency occurs, alerts are immediately sent to family members, and Monitoring Center to verify the event and sending immediate assistance as needed. Lastly, GX Cubic can support wireless sensor devices, allowing users to add in smoke detectors, water leakage sensors, and gas sensors to monitor environmental emergencies; and motion sensors, door contacts, sensor pad transmitters for inactivity monitoring, to build a healthier, safer independent living.

The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) deploys unique security solution to protect medieval chapel as important restoration work begins Axis Communications, globally renowned firm dealing in network video technology, has been working alongside The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) to bring a medieval property back to life so that one day it can be used as a home. Deploying Axis network cameras The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, a UK charity organization, based out of London, sought a unique solution to protect a circa C15 chapel in need of restoration and deployed a network camera solution to monitor the site remotely for intruders and to act as a deterrent against theft of materials. The SPAB is dedicated to protecting and repairing historic buildings, and recently purchased former chapel St Andrews The SPAB is dedicated to protecting and repairing historic buildings, and recently purchased former chapel St Andrews near Maidstone, Kent, with the aim of breathing life back into the structure. In recent years its main roles have been advice, training and campaigning. However, the recently purchased building, its first new repair project in almost 50 years, will allow the SPAB to teach others the practical skills required to care for such a building, while also returning a historic building to the housing market. Protecting and securing historic buildings The Axis solution has negated the need to have a security resource on site to protect the premises. The video surveillance and intrusion detection system has already successfully identified intruders entering the grounds of the building. Additionally, the network cameras can document the restoration work as it takes place on a daily basis and have also been useful in detecting local wildlife to provide the Kent Wildlife Trust with an idea of the range of animals with homes around the location, including many foxes. The technologies used included: Four AXIS Companion Bullet LE cameras, delivering HD video quality with built-in IR illumination for effective surveillance in darkness An AXIS Companion Cube camera with a built-in microphone and mini-speaker to effectively deter intruders AXIS Companion Recorder, providing a wireless access point for mobile devices. Network camera surveillance The image quality of the cameras is fantastic, especially at night" Matthew Slocombe, director of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, commented, “The image quality of the cameras is fantastic, especially at night when it is, of course, usually more difficult to identify potential threats. We are grateful to Axis Communications for providing this work and equipment free of charge, it means we can put our resources into saving St Andrews, Boxley – a truly special building.” The SPAB believes that ensuring the future of our culturally and historically important buildings can improve our environment and wellbeing. Because this drive to create a better world is in line with Axis’ ethos of innovating for a smarter, safer world and doing good in the community, the cameras were donated for the purposes of securing the premises during the conservation works. Efficient intrusion detection David Needham, UK & Ireland Sales Manager at Axis Communications, said “We felt we wanted to get involved with this project as we recognized an organization that was trying to help others and do good in the community, which is core to our values as a business. Since the installation, the cameras have identified young adults entering the building’s grounds, but not harming the property. It’s also seen local residents stopping and challenging people looking to enter unlawfully. This has meant there is no need to deploy security personnel to secure the site, saving the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings time and money.”

Siklu, the pioneer in 5G mmWave wireless network solutions, announced that its radios have been deployed in the City of Cambridge, located roughly 100km West of Toronto in Ontario, to provide outdoor video security and support potential public Wi-Fi network services. The city has fiber connections connecting several municipal buildings and continues to deploy more where it makes economic sense. fiber is used to connect fire stations to City Hall, for example. However, this particular application, outdoor video security, was one that needed more flexibility to accommodate the necessary camera locations. Most parking lots, Intersections and pedestrian walkways do not have a fiber POP (‘point of presence’) nearby. This meant the answer would almost certainly have to be a wireless solution. Need of flexible video security solution The wireless network would need to be able to backhaul gigabit per second public Wi-Fi APs with no additional truck rollsThe solution to be chosen had several additional requirements. It needed to be flexible when it came to expanding the video security coverage, it had to be secure and it also had to have enough capacity that it could support additional high bandwidth applications, such as the deployment of Public Wi-Fi. The wireless network would then need to be able to backhaul gigabit per second public Wi-Fi APs (‘access points’) with no additional truck rolls. The successful bidder on the project was Alliance Security Systems. Alliance investigated 5 GHz solutions as well as 60 GHz and determined that only 60 GHz products could meet current and future requirements. The ‘EtherHaul 600’ point-to-point 60 GHz solution from Siklu features plenty of capacity (from 100Mbps up to 1Gbps, software upgradeable), flexible deployment options (up to 1km “link” range), small size (mountable on street light poles) and immunity to radio interference (e.g., 5 GHz systems are subject to the ever increasing Wi-Fi noise floor).    Deployment of P3717 multi-Lens cameras Phase 1 of the program supported ten multi-lens camera deployments, and the network design had six 1-Gbps Siklu V-Band radios collocated at the city Clock Tower. This dense colocation was a result of the very narrow 60GHz radio beams and the abundant spectrum (14GHz) available. Deployment of the Siklu radios was accomplished within a week and incorporated an Axis Communications P3717 multi-lens cameras managed by a Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Since the installation of the video security network, a car theft ring was apprehended and there has been a reduction in crimeTom Hackett, Alliance Security Systems stated: “By utilizing the point to point technology in such a way where we co-locate the head end, we end up approaching a cumulative speed of over 10Gbps per second once Phase 2 is commissioned. That’s just an astounding wireless speed in today’s world. The network has been such a success that beyond expansion plans with Cambridge, we are in discussions with other municipalities.” Reduction in crimes The City also operates the Phase 1 network to provide access to police as requested for specific incidents or investigations. Since the installation of the video security network, a car theft ring was apprehended and there has been a noticeable reduction in crime. Beginning in June 2019 or as soon as light poles become available, Phase 2 will add seven new cameras and will be supported by Siklu’s V-Band ‘EtherHaul 600’ radios. The EtherHaul 600 units feature 1 Gbits of capacity and can accommodate future expansions of the system. “The network was installed and is delivering in all aspects – high up time and excellent video quality,” said Trevor McWilliams, Manager of Business Development for the City of Cambridge Ontario Economic Development. “We are confident that the network deployed will operate for many years and be able to support new applications as needed.”