Dan Cremins

The COVID-19 global pandemic had a life-changing impact on all of us in 2020, including a multi-faceted jolt on the physical security industry. With the benefit of hindsight, we can now see more clearly the exact nature and extent of that impact. And it’s not over yet: The pandemic will continue to be top-of-mind in 2021. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What have been the positive and negative effects of Covid-19 on the physical security industry in 2020? What impact will it have on 2021?

We are several weeks into 2021, and it is already shaping up to be an eventful year. The happenings and trends from 2020 will likely carry over into the new year, but in a fast-moving industry such as ours, there will also be additional trends to watch. Looking toward the year ahead, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the biggest security trends in 2021?

We are living in the age of Big Data, and businesses are inundated with large volumes of data every day. Success depends on capturing, analysing and ultimately transforming that data into information and intelligence that can be used to improve the business. So, it is with today's physical access control and video systems, too, which also generate unprecedented levels of data. But how can we make the data useful to end users and how can they realise its full value? We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: Relating to physical security systems, what is the value of data and how can that value be measured?

Cloud computing has been around since the turn of the millennium. Over the years, the concept of storing and accessing programs over the Internet (instead of using an on-premises computer system) has grown in almost every realm of business. Some might say the physical security industry has come late to the party, delayed in some instances by (misguided?) concerns about cybersecurity of cloud systems. The bandwidth needed to transfer video to the cloud has also been a challenge. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What features of Cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) are the most valuable to the average user?

Determining how the cloud can best support your business depends on fivefactors: Bandwidth, storage, cost, security and accessibility Until about a decade ago, most enterprises used their video surveillance systems primarily to view live video or review security incidents after the fact. Today, many are taking advantage of intelligent video solutions to reduce losses from theft and fraud, monitor and improve customer service, track commercial conversion rates and performance trends, and identify opportunities to strengthen their marketing, operations, compliance and sales strategies. At the same time, enterprises across all sectors are leveraging technology solutions such as the cloud to reduce IT costs, streamline application management, and make their infrastructure more flexible and scalable. So it’s no surprise that these same companies are now turning their attention to emerging cloud applications for video surveillance. Yet video surveillance solutions have some unique requirements that set them apart from other types of enterprise cloud applications. Video — especially high-definition video — demands much more bandwidth and storage than the consumer-oriented cloud services you may use at home. Security and privacy have to be considered, too, as regulations and corporate policies may all impose restrictions on the transport and storage of video footage. And the anticipated return on investment, of course, is always a consideration when evaluating any technology solution. Ultimately, determining where and how the cloud can best support your business depends on a set of five primary requirements: bandwidth, storage, cost, security and accessibility.  Businesses should assess the advantages & disadvantages of the cloud solutioncompared to the existing VMS with respect to bandwidth, storage, cost,security & accessibility 1. It all begins with bandwidth The total bandwidth required for a video stream varies depending on the number of frames or images being captured per second, as well as the quality of the images being captured. Given that most enterprises are now replacing some (or even all) of their older analogue cameras with new megapixel IP cameras, bandwidth becomes an even more important factor to examine.  Many enterprises today, surprisingly, still do not have the bandwidth capacity to upload video captured by multiple IP cameras to the cloud. Even if they employ buffering, which can limit video streaming until a time when more bandwidth is available (such as after business hours), few organisations can access the required upload speeds consistently at all locations, especially those operating hundreds or thousands of sites. And while bandwidth speeds and accessibility will continue to improve, and therefore ease the barrier toward efficient video uploading to the cloud, the trend toward multi-megapixel IP cameras may counteract that advantage. Even the organisations that do enjoy high-speed, high-capacity upload connections across all of their locations may not be in a position to dedicate all (or even a sizeable portion) of their network resources to their video surveillance systems. In fact, it’s quite common for banks, retailers and other enterprises to restrict or ‘throttle’ the network capacity allotted to video to just 100–200 kb/s of their total bandwidth to ensure their corporate network has the capacity needed to transmit business-critical data. Service provider caps on broadband services represent another constraint to sending and storing video in the cloud. Again, even locations with sufficient upload and download speeds may have limits on how much data they can push through the network. Exceeding the limit can incur additional — and often prohibitively high — costs.  Even locations with sufficient upload and download speeds may have limits onhow much data they can push through the network 2. Making sense of storage Before moving video surveillance to the cloud, enterprises also need to consider that the majority of collected video is never used — at least by organisations that are not yet leveraging their video’s broader business analysis capabilities — because only specific events will trigger follow-up action. It is therefore important to determine when it makes sense to transmit video data for storage over potentially expensive network links. Assuming that a company has been able to overcome the bandwidth barrier, the cloud could provide ‘unlimited’ storage, the cost of which will presumably continue to decrease as technology improves. Even so, companies should determine how long they need to archive their video and how much redundancy they require, as both factors may add to the total cost of their cloud storage solution.  3. Cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities With video surveillance systems increasingly connected to the Internet, it is critical that they receive the same level of attention to cybersecurity risk and vulnerabilities as traditional IT systems such as servers and workstations. Given the legal, financial and reputational risks associated with data breaches and leaked video, enterprises are intensely concerned about ensuring the integrity and security of their video networks. Port forwarding, firewalls, network topology and video encryption can all have a significant impact on the security and protection of a cloud-based video surveillance system, requiring a greater degree of expertise and effort in these areas on the part of an organisation’s in-house IT support team. At the same time, some companies have internal policies that strictly prohibit video data from leaving the corporate network or having it stored on a third-party server (even one run by a trusted and reputable provider); others prefer not to take the risk whether or not their formal policies preclude using the public cloud. Even if video data is stored on a local server rather than in the cloud, security and privacy remain important concerns, with data protection and user authentication being two key considerations. Port forwarding, firewalls, network topology & video encryption can allhave an impact on the security & protection of a cloud-based video surveillance system 4. Local network access vs. third-party networks Relying on a third-party network to upload or download video means any outage could cut your organisation off from its video assets. Uploads may fail, data may be lost and information may be unavailable until the service comes back online. Consider how frustrating it would be to sit in a security control room knowing that all your cameras are recording, but not being able to view what they’re capturing because the external network is down. In the very worst case, a network outage could cause data loss. Packets that can’t leave the location might be overwritten or discarded, leaving no video record at all. This would be especially unfortunate if a robbery or violent incident was not recorded as a result.  When video is stored on premises, there’s always the comfort of having local access and control. Most enterprise-class servers and network video recorders (NVRs), for example, include battery backups to ensure video recording continues in the event of a temporary network outage. 5. Assessing cloud service provider Cloud-based video surveillance storage and management is an emerging approach with considerable potential. However, until the substantial bandwidth challenge can be overcome, it won’t offer a cost-effective alternative to today’s video surveillance solutions for most mid- and large-sized enterprises with multiple locations and more demanding video requirements. As with most network technologies, the point of feasibility will be reached over time as new solutions emerge and build on previous technical capabilities. In the longer term, advances in video compression and faster, more affordable bandwidth services will help make cloud-based storage solutions a more viable option for many larger, multi-site enterprises. When exploring the opportunities associated with the cloud, it is important to move beyond the hype and take the time to carefully consider the implications a cloud-based video solution may have on your business. This should include preparing an appropriate set of questions to ask of any potential cloud service provider so you can accurately assess the advantages and disadvantages of the solution compared to your existing video management system, especially with respect to bandwidth, storage, cost, security and accessibility.

The COVID-19 global pandemic had a life-changing impact on all of us in 2020, including a multi-faceted jolt on the physical security industry. With the benefit of hindsight, we can now see more clearly the exact nature and extent of that impact. And it’s not over yet: The pandemic will continue to be top-of-mind in 2021. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What have been the positive and negative effects of Covid-19 on the physical security industry in 2020? What impact will it have on 2021?

March Networks, a global video security and video-based business intelligence solutions provider, is pleased to introduce new capabilities available in its powerful Searchlight software. Used by international banks and retail organisations to extract valuable information on customer service, merchandising, operations, compliance and more, March Networks Searchlight helps businesses improve performance and profitability. Integrating clear surveillance video, relevant business data and highly accurate analytics, the software also enables organisations to proactively detect fraud and theft and quickly review suspect transactions – reducing investigation times by as much as 90%. Searchlight software also enables organisations to proactively detect fraud and theft Searchlight software With the launch of this latest version of Searchlight, customers benefit from enhanced filtering and customisation features that make it easier to uncover losses and compare key performance indicators (KPIs) from multiple locations simultaneously. These new capabilities include: Expanded fraud/loss detection reporting. Users can now combine specific transaction types with associated point-of-sale (POS) or ATM/teller alarms to proactively pinpoint suspect incidents. A fraud investigator at a bank might set a business rule to report on all loan applications processed with no customer present, while a retail loss prevention manager may want to see all incidents where a no sale transaction is followed by the opening of a cash drawer. Users receive a list of all of their customised exceptions along with links to the recorded video so they can quickly scan through each incident and visually verify what occurred. Enhanced transaction pattern detection, which allows users to more precisely define suspect transactions by combining transaction types (e.g. withdrawals, deposits, voids, discounts or refunds) occurring within a set time interval. A retail employee voiding a transaction immediately following a cash transaction, for example, or someone conducting two ATM cash withdrawals below a set threshold within minutes might be committing a crime. This new Searchlight software capability helps investigators identify such theft and fraudulent incidents faster and provides clear video and data evidence to help them prevent recurring incidents from happening. People counting with employee filtering, through an integration with the latest FLIR Brickstream 3D analytic sensor, to provide highly accurate customer traffic data and sales conversion metrics. The feature uses a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and employee-worn tags to automatically identify and remove staff from customer counts, a process that can otherwise be manual or missing in today’s retail environments. Personalised reports that enable users to set and save ‘favourite’ dashboards incorporating data from multiple sites. The customised reports are ideal to help aggregate and compare KPIs, such as the location with the highest percentage of voids or returns, or the most transactions per day over a defined amount. Integrated video and data solutions “These latest Searchlight capabilities make it even easier for our banking and retail customers to uncover, analyse and compare data that’s critical to the success of their business,” said Dan Cremins, Global Product Management Leader, March Networks. “With more than a decade of experience providing integrated video and data solutions to these markets, we’re now focused on expanding the applicability of the data within an organisation, while constantly improving the user experience.” March Networks will showcase its new Searchlight business intelligence dashboards and reporting capabilities in Booth 1319 at the Global Security Exchange (GSX) Exposition, September 10-12, 2019 in Chicago, IL. March Networks is a globally renowned provider of intelligent IP video surveillance and business intelligence solutions. They provide technical expertise to enable organisations to realise the true power of integrated data and video. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, they are a global organisation with corporate offices located worldwide.

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent video solutions, is pleased to introduce its new CA2 Series HD analogue cameras. A complement to the company’s 8724 V Tribrid NVR and HD analogue offering, the cameras enable organisations to capture sharp 1080p video over existing coaxial cable without the cost and disruption typically required to upgrade to Cat5/6. They also come with multiple mounts, including an innovative drop ceiling mount that cuts installation times by 50% or more. The CA2 cameras are the newest component of our HD analog solution" CA2 Series low-light cameras Incorporating infrared micro-LEDs for illumination in total darkness, and Wide Dynamic Range to eliminate shadows and saturation in bright and low-light environments, the CA2 Series cameras provide high-quality image capture in all lighting conditions. In addition, the cameras are enclosed in a vandal-resistant, IP66-rated aluminum housing, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications. “The CA2 cameras are the newest component of our HD analogue solution, which enables organisations to capture HD analogue, IP and standard analogue video on a single recording platform, and to choose how many channels are dedicated to each camera type,” said Dan Cremins, March Networks’ Global Product Management Leader. “They are an attractive option for small banks, convenience stores, quick service restaurants, and other applications where the time and cost required to undertake a costly ‘rip and replace’ of existing analogue cabling can be prohibitive.” 8724 V Tribrid NVR Part of March Networks’ recently launched HD analogue solution and cloud-based Searchlight for QSR service for quick service and fast casual restaurants, the CA2 Series cameras work with the company’s 8724 V Tribrid NVR and are managed with powerful March Networks Command video management software. The 8724 V supports most third-party HD analog cameras and all three of the most common HD analog technologies The 8724 V recorder’s innovative design uses analog power and Power over Ethernet (PoE) modules to support a variety of HD analog, IP and standard analogue video configurations, up to a maximum of 24 channels. For example, an 8724 V recorder can be deployed to capture HD video from 8 CA2 Series cameras and 16 IP cameras in one location, while a second 8724 V could capture video from 8 IP cameras and 8 CA2 Series cameras at another location. All camera licensing is included regardless of the configuration, making the solution even more cost-effective. Complete intelligent video solutions In addition, the 8724 V supports most third-party HD analogue cameras and all three of the most common HD analogue technologies – HD-CVI (composite video interface), HD-TVI (transport video interface) and AHD (analog high definition). Uniquely, the recorder is wall-mounted to save space, and incorporates a front-lock enclosure for added security. March Networks will demonstrate its new CA2 Series HD analogue cameras and 8724 V Tribrid NVR as part of its complete intelligent video solutions in Booth 26047 at the ISC West Conference & Exposition, April 11-13, 2018 in Las Vegas, NV.

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions, is pleased to introduce its new March Networks Command Center. An enterprise-class software solution, Command Center provides organisations with easy-to-use surveillance video display and control, as well as intelligent alarm management and escalation. Highly flexible, the solution supports advanced monitoring and real-time incident assessment in large-scale security operations centres and centralised video walls to mid-sized surveillance environments. “Command Center makes it easy for operators to successfully handle incoming alarms and events from dozens to potentially hundreds of locations,” said Dan Cremins, Global Leader, March Networks Product Management. “It provides greater visibility enterprise-wide and further expands our comprehensive IP video portfolio, used by banks, transit agencies, municipalities and other organisations for large, multisite video management and surveillance.” Automated intelligent workflows Integrated with March Networks’ Command Enterprise video management software, high-performance video recorders and IP cameras, Command Center delivers key features that support efficient, more accurate alarm and event handling. These capabilities include convenient process guidance, which uses a series of built-in questions and instructions to ensure operators never have to guess how an alarm should be processed or directed, and intelligent workflows that can automatically handle designated alarms behind the scenes without direct operator intervention. An alarm resolution form also provides a consistent user interface for resolving alarms and capturing operators’ notes. All actions are logged in the Command Center system, enabling organisations to conduct quick, comprehensive searches on alarm history, along with reports on individual alarm entries. Delivering intuitive video display and management, Command Center’s drag-and-drop feature allows operators to quickly ‘move’ the cameras they want displayed onto their video wall. The software also supports multilayered maps that enable operators to move floor-to-floor through their facilities virtually and quickly call up detailed plans for any room. COTS servers and workstations Command Center runs on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) servers and workstations, supports multiple display monitors from a single workstation, and can decode as many as 32 video streams per display. Highly flexible and scalable, it decodes all types of standard codecs (including H.264, MPEG-4 and MJPEG) on a single matrix view, and can be expanded simply by adding new workstations when new display monitors are needed. March Networks will demonstrate its new Command Center solution along with its complete intelligent IP video portfolio in Booth 4522 at the ASIS International 2017 Expo, September 26-28, in Dallas, TX.

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions, is pleased to introduce an innovative investigation capability for bus, light rail and passenger rail agencies. Incident Search – now available as an option in March Networks Command for Transit video management software – dramatically reduces the time needed to investigate reported incidents and share accurate evidence. It provides fleet operators with a visual overview of what’s happening on all of their routes, complete with details on recorded events such as speed, hardbrakes, door malfunctions or impacts. Operational intelligence for transport applications With Incident Search, transit agencies benefit from operational intelligence that enables them to quickly respond to complaints, resolve disputes and address liability claims using clear video and vehicle data. “Incident Search solves a common challenge for fleet operators and investigation teams, which is to find recorded video and vehicle information following an incident based only on an approximation of when and where the incident happened,” said Dan Cremins, March Networks’ Global Leader, Product Management. “It enables operators to get to the evidence they need in minutes rather than days, and also serves as a true operational intelligence tool that can be used to spot potential fleet issues or see where more staff training may be required.” Incident search softwareUsing Incident Search, a transit investigator could easily verify a complaint about a driver talking on his cell phone while operating a bus, for example, armed only with an approximate date and location. By simply setting the time period and ‘drawing’ the general location on a customisable map in the software, they would immediately see all of the individual bus routes crossing that location in the specified timeframe. The employee would then choose the bus involved and schedule the video to automatically download the next time that bus entered a wireless hotspot. The Command software will even send a notification once the marked video has downloaded successfully. Using Incident Search, a transit investigator could easily verify a complaint about a driver talking on his cell phone Transit agencies can also use Incident Search more proactively, to analyse and identify possible issues such as a bus route with an unusually high number of reported hardbrakes or a rail car with multiple door malfunctions. This unique operational intelligence allows transit operators to further investigate the cause of such incidents using recorded video and address them before an actual problem occurs. Transportation video surveillance solutions Incident Search continues March Networks’ commitment to providing transportation agencies worldwide with complete video solutions proven to meet the unique demands of bus, light rail and passenger rail environments. The intelligent solution enables operators to maintain the highest security for passengers and employees, respond quickly to emergency situations, and resolve liability claims faster and more cost-effectively with integrated case management, video and metadata evidence. Its enterprise-class Command for Transit software manages both mobile and wayside environments and integrates seamlessly with a portfolio of purpose-built IP cameras and the industry’s most reliable video recorders.

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions, introduces the new mobile IP cameras to its complete transportation solution for bus, light rail, and passenger rail fleets. Designed to provide transit operators with improved and more comprehensive surveillance coverage, the megapixel cameras are purpose-built to withstand demanding mobile environments and capture consistently clear video in near darkness, bright daylight and the abrupt lighting transitions that occur when vehicles enter and exit tunnels and underpasses. Ideal for transit operators The mobile IP cameras are fully integrated with leading March Networks RideSafe Series Network Video Recorders and easily managed with powerful March Networks Command for Transit software. They are ideal for transit operators ready to upgrade from analogue to high-definition surveillance video, as well as those seeking highly-reliable cameras certified to withstand the wide temperature ranges, humidity, shock, vibration, and other environmental pressures common on mobile vehicles. Mobile ME4 IR MicDome The Mobile ME4 IR MicDome combines 4MP resolution with high dynamic range (HDR) and powerful infrared (IR) LEDs to capture sharp, detailed images in varied lighting. Packaged in a small, durable housing, the camera incorporates a built-in microphone and is IP66 (weatherproofing), SAE J1455 and EN50155 (shock and vibration) and IK10 (vandal-resistance) certified. Mobile HDR Forward Facing camera The Mobile HDR Forward Facing camera can be mounted on a dashboard or ceiling and comes with an optional, anti-glare cone to minimise windshield glare and reflection. Its combination of HDR and 3MP resolution ensures exceptionally clear video, while features such as a weatherproof, vandal-resistant (IP67 / IK10) aluminium housing make it ideal for rugged transit applications. Mobile HDR Wedge The Mobile HDR Wedge is designed to capture high-definition 3MP video from the exterior of a bus or passenger rail train. The camera includes built-in heaters and vents to prevent condensation and fogging, a weatherproof vandal-resistant (IP67 / IK10) housing, and SAE J1455 and EN50155 certifications. Evolution 05 Mini Panel Mount and Mini Outdoor cameras The Evolution 05 Mini Panel Mount and Evolution 05 Mini Outdoor cameras introduce advanced 360-degree surveillance to March Networks’ transportation solution via a strategic partnership with Oncam, the provider of 360-degree technology. With 5MP sensors and no moving parts, the cameras are EN50155 certified, come with multiple mounting options, are available in black or white models, and are fully integrated with March Networks Command software for powerful client-side de-warping. All the new mobile cameras also include optional, onboard storage to ensure continuous video recording All the new mobile cameras also include optional, onboard storage to ensure continuous video recording, even if recorder connectivity is lost due to a power outage. Exceptional video clarity and reliability “An increasing number of transit agencies are transitioning to IP to see high-definition video on their bus and passenger rail fleets, given that it’s now easier and more affordable to download larger amounts of data over wireless networks,” said Dan Cremins, Global Leader, Product Management, March Networks. “Our new megapixel cameras support this transition by delivering exceptional video clarity along with the reliability, form factors and mounting options transit vehicles require. These megapixel cameras are best-in-class additions to our complete video solution for mobile and wayside transit environments.” Drawing on more than a decade of experience working with transportation agencies worldwide, March Networks’ proven video solution provides bus, para-transit, light rail, and passenger rail operators with comprehensive oversight across their entire operation – including on transit vehicles, and in stations, depots, and park-and-rides. The intelligent solution enables operators to maintain the highest security for passengers and employees, respond quickly to emergency situations, and resolve liability claims faster and more cost-effectively with integrated case management and vehicle metadata evidence.

To ensure the highest reliability, the 9000 Series IP recorders incorporate a customised embedded Linux OS March Networks, a provider of intelligent IP video solutions, introduced its new 9000 Series IP recorders. Designed to deliver the same unparalleled reliability, manageability, and serviceability organisations have come to expect from March Networks, these high-performance recorders are ideal for mid-sized commercial organisations with all-IP video environments, as well as banks, retailers and other multi-site enterprises transitioning from analogue or hybrid video networking. High reliability IP recorders Available in 32-, 48- and 64-channel models, the 9000 Series recorders support high-megapixel, high-throughput video capture. In addition, all channel licences are included, so customers benefit from a fully-featured recording system right out of the box with a lower overall cost of ownership. Available in 32-, 48- and 64-channel models, the 9000 Series recorders support high-megapixel, high-throughput video capture To ensure the highest reliability, the 9000 Series IP Recorders incorporate a customised embedded Linux OS, which eliminates unnecessary background services and frequent system updates. Other reliability features include diagnostic LEDs for each hard-drive, internal battery backup, and real-time system health monitoring via March Networks Command video management software. The recorders are also simple to maintain, thanks to front-access hard drives and unique QR codes that work with March Networks’ free GURU Smartphone App to enable instant configuration audits, troubleshooting, warranty checks and other capabilities using a smartphone or tablet. Centralised video management The 9000 Series recorders integrate seamlessly with March Networks 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs, and the company’s Command Recording Server solution—all of which can be managed together as a single solution using powerful March Networks Command Enterprise. This gives customers unlimited flexibility to deploy the right video solution for each site while benefitting from enterprise-class centralised video management. “This new family of 9000 Series recorders offers organisations a high-performance video appliance that’s IT-friendly, very easy to manage and cost-competitive,” said Dan Cremins, Global Product Management Leader, March Networks. “It gives our customers additional choice when deploying an end-to-end video solution, and continues our commitment to delivering the most reliable and serviceable recording systems in the industry.” March Networks will showcase the new 9000 Series IP Recorders in Booth 25041 at the International Security Conference and Exposition (ISC West 2017), April 5th-7th, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

For all its value in the security market, one has to wonder: How much captured video is actually used for security? Among hours and hours of video, only brief segments here or there are ever actually viewed or used for security applications, such as to review an incident or to provide evidence in court. But what about all that other video, much of it stored for 30 or 90 or 120 days or longer? Does it have to be merely a costly consequence of providing the security benefits of video? Not necessarily, based on what I heard from several exhibitors on the second day of ISC West 2017. Video surveillance beyond security Turns out all that video has many potential uses, and in fact represents a huge opportunity for the video surveillance market to expand its value to business operations beyond security. Information from video can provide valuable insights into business operations. Analysing it (using new tools highlighted at ISC) can provide metrics to guide business strategy, reveal customer trends, fine-tune business processes, etc. “Video surveillance as a comprehensive ‘value add’ is coming into its own before our eyes,” said Keith Drummond, Senior Director, IDIS America. “More and more people are seeing and experiencing the benefits of video beyond initial security applications. Modern analytics enable business intelligence with real-world impact on the bottom line in the retail vertical and beyond. The potential of video beyond security has never been more apparent.” IDIS and March Networks’ new surveillance additions Celebrating 20 years in business, IDIS introduced new additions and enhancements to its total solution at this year’s ISC West. They include a complete lineup of H.265 IP cameras and NVRs, a new 12 megapixel super fisheye camera, new low-light and long-distance solutions, enhancements to PTZ controls, and a new retail analytics/business intelligence suite. A 64-channel NVR delivers enterprise-level performance at an NVR price. More and more people are seeing and experiencing the benefits of video beyond initial security applications Developments in the market may be opening new opportunities, but reaping the benefits of those opportunities must begin with identifying a customer’s need. “On the product development side, we should work backwards,” suggests Dan Cremins, Global Leader of Product Management, March Networks. “As a customer, identify what problems you are trying to solve and work backwards from there.” March Networks announced a strategic relationship to use Oncam’s 360-degree camera technology for applications in the banking and retail verticals. For automated teller machines (ATMs), March Networks is announcing a new camera that is a lens/sensor connected by a cable to an encoder; the small size enables it to be installed even in new smaller ATMs; features include high dynamic range (HDR) and 3 megapixel resolution. Finally, March Network’s new 9000 series NVR uses a Linux operating system, provides double the video throughput (6 Mbps) and offers a choice of 32, 48 or 64 channels. Cloud-based access control The impact of new developments on integrators was another theme I heard today at the show. A shift is afoot in the market to cloud-based access control, and integrators and dealers need to be educated to overcome resistance to the changing business models; so says Mitchell Kane, President of Vanderbilt Industries. The fundamental shift is from high-margin “project-based” business to lower-cost installation (with less immediate profit) of hosted solutions, combined with recurring monthly revenue that customers pay for cloud services. Less immediate gratification (i.e., lower commissions) might discourage salesmen from embracing the change, but it is a necessary transition to adapt to the new business climate and to the increasing popularity of cloud systems. There is also some integrator resistance to another big trend – mobile credentials, says Kane. In this case, the concern is that mobile credentials are provided directly from the manufacturer. Integrators are concerned that end-users “being exposed” to manufacturers could result in their being eliminated from the equation, he notes. The scope of integrators’ work is also narrowing in some instances, says Kane. For example, today’s network-based and easy-to-install systems may lead end users to buy the systems direct from a manufacturer and then install the systems themselves (such as by their in-house information technology [IT] department). It is another argument for the value of RMR to help integrators offset revenue losses. The integrator should, in any case, avoid being a barrier to implementation of new technology approaches, says Kane. Vanderbilt ACT365 and Arecont Omni G3 Vanderbilt has a new cloud-based access control system – ACT365 – which has two hardware components, a single device for each door, and a video management system with a Terabyte of storage that supports four IP cameras. The system is hosted in the Azure cloud. There is a strong diagnostics package on the installation page, which ensures simplified installation. Arecont Vision’s SNAPstream Technology can be used to greatly reduce bandwidth and lower storage requirements Making life easier for integrators has been a focus for Arecont Vision. For example, remote focus on its cameras simplifies installation; a technician doesn’t have to stand precariously on a ladder with a laptop to adjust the focus. Now Arecont Vision’s SurroundVideo Omni G3 offers remote motorised positioning of the four individual sensors inside the camera. There are built-in presets providing 180-degree, 360-degree or 270-degree views, and two additional programmable presets. The 12- or 20-megapixel all-in-one omni-directional camera provides easier initial installation and more flexibility for the end user to change camera configurations. For example, a stadium owner could create one preset combination of sensor positions for a sporting event and a second combination for a concert, and then switch back and forth as needed. Arecont SNAPstream Technology Arecont Vision’s SNAPstream Technology can be used to greatly reduce bandwidth and lower storage requirements. Because Arecont Vision cameras have Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology, the new SNAPstream can also be deployed to every existing Arecont Vision camera in the field, simply using a firmware upgrade. The company has also cracked the code on cybersecurity; the megapixel cameras do not have operating systems that can be repurposed for use in cyberattacks. Arecont has also repositioned its product line into “good, better and best” categories. Booth traffic held up well on the second day of the show, with one more day to go and plenty left to see.

MegaPX Modular ATM Camera combines HDR and robust low-light performance to capture clear video in high-contrast lighting March Networks, a provider of intelligent IP video solutions, recently introduced the MegaPX Modular ATM Camera. Providing sharp, 3MP images and an impressive 3-foot vertical view of ATM customers in all lighting conditions, the camera enables banking investigators and law enforcement to clearly identify faces and other distinguishing features. Its two-component design ensures easy installation in compact ATMs, including the NCR SelfServ 34 Walk-Up. The camera is the newest complement to March Networks’ comprehensive banking solution used by more than 500 financial institutions worldwide. MegaPX Modular ATM Camera “The Modular ATM Camera delivers exceptional images. One of our credit union customers tested it recently and was so impressed with the video quality that they only want these cameras in their ATMs moving forward,” said Jeff Popoff, Installation and Service Technician with systems integrator Chubb Edwards. “The camera is also very easy to install, so it’s definitely one we would recommend.” The MegaPX Modular ATM Camera is the most recent addition to March Networks’ line of purpose-built ATM IP cameras, mounts, and locking brackets. Measuring just 1.1 H x 1.0 W x 1.4 D inches with a separate decoding unit and flexible 40-inch cable, it is available with a standard or View Window mounting bracket—both of which lock securely into place to ensure the camera does not shift, tilt, or fall back during daily ATM vaulting—saving banks the time and cost of repeat service calls. “The camera is also very easy to install, so it’s definitely one we would recommend” Providing comprehensive video evidence Similar to the self-contained MegaPX ATM Camera, the modular camera combines high dynamic range (HDR) and robust low-light performance to capture clear video in high-contrast lighting, such as the direct sunlight and near-dark conditions experienced at ATM vestibules and drive-throughs at different times of the day. Available with a 2.8mm standard lens, the camera’s wide field-of-view (FOV) records ATM users from the waist up rather than just capturing faces to provide more comprehensive video evidence. In addition, the camera can be configured to auto-correct images recorded behind tinted ATM glass enclosures. To speed up maintenance, each MegaPX Modular ATM Camera includes a unique QR code that technicians can scan with their smartphone or tablet using March Networks’ free GURU Smartphone Application. GURU automates typically time-consuming tasks such as determining a camera’s serial number, verifying its warranty status, and completing online return forms. The app also connects systems integrators with how-to video tutorials, product manuals and convenient troubleshooting tools to help them work more efficiently and resolve camera issues onsite. Purpose-build design and capabilities “With card data theft on the rise and reports of new ‘shimmer’ fraud targeting chip-based credit and debit cards, banks and credit unions want to know they are capturing the best video evidence possible at their ATMs,” said Dan Cremins, Head of Global Product Management with March Networks. “This new ATM camera enables this thanks to its purpose-built design and capabilities that are consistent with March Networks’ leadership position providing intelligent end-to-end video solutions to financial institutions to help address their real-world business challenges.” March Networks will showcase the MegaPX Modular ATM Camera and its complete banking solution in Booth 25041 at the International Security Conference and Exposition (ISC West), April 5-7, at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Add March Networks to the growing list of companies in the physical security market that are addressing the possibility of cyber-threats. Cybersecurity is especially relevant to two of March Networks’ primary vertical markets – banking, whose focus on money requires stringent cybersecurity; and retail, which has been the target of recent cybersecurity attacks. “People just don’t know what to do with cybersecurity,” says Dan Cremins, Global Leader, Product Management at March Networks. “The thing is, you have to figure out how to make your products, solutions and networks more secure, and then let them know what you are doing about it.” Cybersecurity mobile app As the profile of cybersecurity has increased in the physical security market, March Networks has added cybersecurity features to its GURU app. GURU is a mobile app for integrators to use when installing and diagnosing equipment in the field. Using a wireless dongle, the system can read the QR (Quick Response) code on a camera, for example, and provide installation information specific to that camera. As the profile of cybersecurityhas increased in the physicalsecurity market, March Networkshas added cybersecurity featuresto GURU GURU’s new Security Audit tool enables the app to scan a unit and check to make sure it is cybersecure; that is, the right ports have been closed and default passwords have been changed. Simple green, yellow and red coding communicates the cybersecurity status of equipment as it is being installed – and it takes less than five minutes. After installation, the GURU app can be used to conduct an extra check to ensure cybersecurity. There is also a section on the March Networks web site identifying security vulnerabilities (listed by CVE [Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures] number), explaining whether they affect March Networks equipment, and the availability of any patches. “Cybersecurity is the number one threat to any industry, including ours,” says Cremins. “We offer a tool to help people address it. We are trying to be as proactive as possible, and stay ahead of it.” Integrating inventory tracking & video There are other developments at March Networks, too, including a new integration partner in the retail sector. Tracking inventory is critical to retail loss management, and March Networks has integrated its video system with the Zebra RFID system for inventory tracking. Zebra uses radio frequency identification (RFID). Asset tags are used in combination with sensors mounted throughout a facility to keep track of where goods are transported in a retail store, warehouse or other location. If something goes missing,video of that item, tied to trackinginformation from the RFID system,is available instantly to aid withan investigation The Zebra RFID system generates inventory tracking information that is integrated with March Networks video in much the same way that point-of-sale (POS) information has been used with video. Information from inventory tracking is associated directly with each frame of video. The integration allows video cameras to watch equipment as it moves around a warehouse or retail space. If something goes missing, video of that item, tied to tracking information from the RFID system, is available instantly to aid with an investigation. In addition to retail, there are also applications of RFID inventory tracking in medical environments, where expensive equipment is used throughout a hospital, for example. Integration of video with inventory control would allow video cameras to watch medical equipment as it travels from floor to floor and room to room. Video provides a valuable investigation tool if a medical device goes missing. “They can review the video to see where it was and see what happened with it,” says Cremins. HDR cameras for banking applications At the recent ASIS show in Orlando, March Networks introduced the new ME4 series of multi-exposure, 4 megapixel cameras. The cameras are aimed at improving video image performance in situations with varied light, such as a glass-enclosed ATM enclosure, bank branch, or a retail location where bright windows can cause backlighting and other problems. In addition to better image quality and resolution, the cameras have been designed very economically, says Cremins. They strike a balance between video clarity and bandwidth and storage efficiency. The cameras use HDR (high dynamic range) technology designed for the most extreme lighting conditions. Even in an environment surrounded completely by glass, the cameras can still see the person in the foreground and details in the background. Facial details are critical in applications at banks and financial institutions.