John Romanowich

Thermal cameras see heat rather than light, so they are a perfect “human detector” Safeguarding outdoor assets in a reliable and cost-effective manner often comes down to a single requirement: Accurate intruder alerts and timely information about the unfolding event. While there are many technologies available for outdoor security, smart cameras with video analytics have emerged as the solution of choice for detecting intruders in real time outdoors. Yet the best technology will be handicapped if the alerts generated cannot be trusted. Repeated false alarms can eventually condition security operators to ignore real intrusions, undermining trust in the perimeter security system. High accuracy with low false alerts In most cases the short-sighted response is to single out the security force as scapegoats, which ignores the real problem: alert fatigue. After responding to hundreds of perimeter breach alarms that turn out to be nothing more than small animals or windblown branches, even the most conscientious security guards lose confidence in the system and start to ignore its warnings. There is no longer any reason for this situation to exist. By following best practices of product selection and deployment, it is now possible to use video security cameras to protect outdoor assets with high accuracy and low nuisance alerts. As costs continue to fall, many organisations are now able to choose thermal cameras as the foundation for their outdoor detection applications Smart thermal cameras Viable outdoor security must start with a sensing system that is accurate, 24-hours per day. For this reason, conventional wisdom asserts that smart thermal cameras are the best system for detecting intruders outdoors. This is because thermal cameras see heat rather than light, so they are a perfect “human detector,” and will ignore headlights, reflections off water, and other light-based activity, expanding their usefulness from their traditional role as night vision cameras to 24-hour intrusion detection solutions. Smart thermal cameras with built-in Video Analytic software offers several advantages: They detect in the dark with no need for costly artificial lighting They work 24 hours/day They ignore reflections, shadows, moving headlights, direct sunlight, and other light-based phenomena that can trigger alarms in a visible camera detection system Because humans give off heat, thermal sensors are far more effective in spotting a person than visible cameras They detect body heat of intruders over large areas In the past, the higher price for thermal technology limited their use in commercial applications, but as costs continue to fall, many organisations are now able to choose thermal cameras as the foundation for their outdoor detection applications. A smart camera needs to ignore the animal while alerting on distant person, even though the animal will cover more of the camera’s field of view Accurate detection with geo-registration Smart thermal cameras are designed to detect movement, but outdoors, everything moves. A smart camera must be able to tell the difference between small objects such as leaves or debris and a person entering a secured area. One of the best ways for a camera to make this determination is through “geo-registration” which enables a three-dimensional capability. Geo-registration is a critical technology for accurate video analytic size rules that increase accuracy and reduce false alerts. Consider how human vision works: Our eyes give us depth perception – we can tell which object is close and which is far. But a “one-eyed” camera can’t, unless it’s geo-registered. For example, a small animal near the camera will look much larger than a man at 300 meters away. A smart camera needs to ignore the animal while alerting on distant person, even though the animal will cover more of the camera’s field of view. Eliminate camera movement with stabilisation Many intrusion detection systems are deployed along open areas that are naturally impacted by high winds or vibrations from planes, trains, weather and machinery. Without image stabilisation, these applications can be overwhelmed by nuisance alarms or worse, outright misdetects. It is difficult for smart cameras to detect movement in a scene when the whole field of view is also moving from camera shake. The best way to overcome the impact from wind or vibrations is to choose smart cameras that stabilise the image electronically, before the video analytic rules are applied. Look for cameras that use electronic or gyro-based stabilisers as a foundation for their detection capabilities. Outdoor on-board video analytics Cameras which employ both a high degree of image processing and on-board video analytics have a great advantage in accuracy and detection distance over solutions that employ analytics on a server, outside of the camera. Cameras without embedded analytics must compress the video data for transmission over the network. That’s a problem because compression removes most of the finer scene details—up to 99% of the original data—seriously degrading a video analytic system’s ability to accurately detect and recognise targets. In fact, on days with restricted visibility due to rain or fog, data compression has caused smart cameras to miss virtually all intruders in a scene. On the other hand, when the uncompressed imagery is processed by video analytic software directly in the camera, 100% of the raw scene data is available for analysis. With on-board image processors examining the full visual detail of every video frame, you can achieve a much greater degree of accuracy in detecting motion and recognising potential threats. With on-board image processors examining the full visual detail of every video frame, you can achieve a much greater degree of accuracy Increasing probability of detection Smart thermal cameras are a great way to protect outdoor assets. But the system has little value if people can enter a secured area undetected. Here are some pointers to avoid gaps in coverage and make sure your system detects every time. A perimeter security system based on video analytics operates by “seeing” targets that move into a camera’s detection area. Knowing the camera’s true range lets you design a dependable system with no coverage gaps. Unfortunately, some manufacturers specify camera ranges that overstate their detection capabilities. This means it’s up to the integrator to determine the camera’s true detection distances. Otherwise your perimeter solution may leave gaping holes that can allow intruders to pass through undetected. Determining true detection range The best practice to determine a camera's true detection range is to measure the farthest distance at which the camera can automatically detect a person walking “inbound” or directly toward the camera. Inbound detection is always less than crossfield because a person moving across the camera's field of view creates a larger amount of motion, which is easier to detect. In contrast, a person walking toward the camera produces very little motion, making the target more difficult to detect. In the real world, intruders can enter a perimeter from any direction, so it’s important to design the system for all situations. For complete coverage, the view of each camera must be designed to cover the adjacent camera’s blind spot Addressing blind spotsA camera’s field of view doesn’t begin where it’s mounted. Instead it can only detect at a measurable distance in front—this is the blind spot. Every security camera has a blind spot, and this must be considered in the perimeter security design, or someone will be able to walk right under a camera undetected. To provide complete coverage, the view of each camera must be designed to cover the adjacent camera’s blind spot. Perimeter design software Some manufacturers offer design tools that can help you model a camera layout using a Google map of the area under consideration. This is a good practice to check detection distances ahead of time and ensure that blind spots are properly addressed. SightLogix offers such a tool, called SightSurvey. Smart video solution Today’s smart video is an ideal solution to the new challenges in site protection that confront security professionals. It outperforms older technologies by a wide margin. It often costs less. Installation is less disruptive, and the technology is highly reliable. Essentially, a smart video security system is a force multiplier, taking the burden of monotonous surveillance off regular security staff. Instead of just watching endless video feeds, the staff gets information that lets them do their jobs better. When deployed using best practices of product selection and installation, smart thermal video is the obvious choice for outdoor site security applications.  

Thermal cameras with video analytics detect with great accuracy in bright sun,fog, rain and other conditions Smart thermal cameras are rapidly becoming the intruder detection solution of choice for securing outdoor assets. Whether for smaller-range applications like protecting entranceways or gates, or securing large perimeters around energy, utility, chemical, or transportation assets, thermal cameras paired with video analytics offer an accurate detection solution that provides instant notifications in real time. Thermal video incites speedy response A number of automated detection technologies including coax and fibre fence sensors, microwave, seismic sensors and radar can provide a level of intruder detection. However, smart thermal cameras combined with video analytics provide substantial advantages over these alternatives. One advantage is speed, which is so important when trying to stop an intruder. Only video provides the detail to display and record the “what and where” of an alert without need for additional verification systems. Knowing the size, location and nature of an event as it unfolds is the best way to mobilise a fast response. Thermal solutions reduce nuisance alerts Another advantage for thermal solutions is accuracy. When an intruder strikes, triggered alerts must be believable and actionable. Nuisance alerts completely undermine your security system. This is where smart thermal cameras excel. Thermal cameras are a perfect “human detector” for the outdoors because they sense the heat of objects within their field of view, while ignoring the lighting challenges that cause nuisance alerts for visible detection cameras (like headlights or reflections off water). Exceptional day/night surveillance While thermal cameras have long been known for “seeing in the dark,” today’s more advanced thermal cameras also show tremendous advantages during daylight applications, which had once been a real challenge. For example, during the day, a person can be cooler than the background, as pavement, buildings and other infrastructure absorb heat from the sun. When the scene background temperature becomes uniform in a given area, the result for older generation thermal cameras was an image with large areas that look “whited out” and undefined, leaving intruders to go undetected. Now, through advancements in thermal imager sensitivity, along with a greatly increased level of onboard video processing, thermal cameras with video analytics can detect with great accuracy in bright sun, fog, rain and other conditions. These capabilities have expanded the usefulness of thermal cameras from their traditional role as “night vision” cameras to 24-hour intruder detection solutions. Smart thermal cameras can differentiate the heat from moving humans and animalsfrom the changes of heat and light in the environment, resulting in fewer‘nuisance’ alarms Smart detection and analytics Smart thermal cameras also provide an excellent option for applications which require “detect and assess” functionality. Some smart thermal cameras can automatically control a PTZ camera to zoom onto a detected target, giving an up close view of the alarm so it can be quickly classified. By combing thermal detection with automatically steered PTZs, you gain complete situational awareness over the entire perimeter. Combining better thermal images with video analytics drives new levels of cost-effectiveness as well. The same image processing used to create better thermal images during the day can also provide more information for making video analytics more reliable. Today’s smart thermal solutions can provide reliable intruder detection regardless of wind, weather or the movement of small animals, trees or blowing trash. Such a system delivers the necessary “security awareness” around the perimeter and internal site assets needed for even the highest level of security reliability. Cost-effective perimeter security While perimeter protection is essential to critical infrastructure security, it’s obviously more expensive to protect an entire perimeter than a smaller section. As a result, many sites which are unable to secure funding for a comprehensive perimeter detection system will often stick with whatever system they have in place, regardless of how susceptible it may be to nuisance alarms or how limited its ability to provide reliable detection. Given this reality, in situations where budgetary limitations simply won’t allow for systems that protect the entire perimeter, an emerging approach focuses on securing the most vulnerable areas within the perimeter using accurate thermal detection solutions first, and then expanding to cover more of the perimeter as budgets allow.  Such a strategy limits detection to specific, vulnerable areas. Rather than the entire perimeter, often consisting of miles of fencing, you can start with defined areas where the most critical incidents may occur. For example, you can start by protecting main gates or entranceways first, solving their most important outdoor security problems quickly and affordably. This is where recent innovations play a big role. Today, a single smart thermal camera can detect intruders with great accuracy over huge areas covering hundreds of square metres. In this way, sites can immediately address their security challenges with great effectiveness for the cost of a few cameras. Fewer cameras are needed to protect the same location, reducing the infrastructure like poles, power and communications otherwise needed, lowering overall project costs accordingly. Providing cost-effective outdoor security is a common need among security professionals tasked with protecting critical assets. Thermal cameras can see more, detect more and operate 24-hours per day, providing clearer images and more accurate alerts for trusted situational awareness. Rounding out the benefits, lower costs open up new opportunities to improve protection of critical assets in any environmental condition.

Capital spending continues to open up in 2015, providing funding for security projects that may have been delayed from prior years. Overall, it was a solid year for the security industry. From a SightLogix perspective, we have seen an increased rate of repeat business as existing customers expand the number of assets they need to secure.      Smart thermal cameras provide ideal outdoor intrusion detection 2015 saw an accelerated adoption of thermal cameras with video analytics. This can be attributed to the growing market acceptance among integrators, specifiers and end users that smart thermal cameras represent the ideal intrusion detection solution for outdoor applications. At the same time, their performance has increased massively while prices continue to fall.   At SightLogix, we are particularly excited about the larger rollouts for outdoor security projects across a number of key verticals. We expect this to accelerate into 2016.  The security industry has always represented a relatively stable and growing market. Even so, as more devices become IT-enabled, the market adoption for these solutions will likely accelerate, bringing greater features and security benefits to end users. See the full coverage of 2015/2016 Review and Forecast articles here

The open and exposed nature of rail yards exposes railway assets to tremendous risk  The importance of rail transportation in driving the U.S. economy cannot be overstated. In recognition of this, America’s railroads are investing in the infrastructure and technology necessary to improve security for the tracks, bridges, tunnels and other vital components that make up this critical transportation network. The unique security requirements of these assets present a number of challenges. To help address them, the federal government has supported rail initiatives through a number of programmes, including the Freight Rail Security Grant Program, which provides funding to better equip freight railroad carriers that own railways to protect against threats while also maintaining the security of the overall rail infrastructure. Day-to-day concerns vs. terrorism As in many industries, the threat of terrorism remains a constant risk for rail transportation, but there are a number of more common day-to-day concerns, such as safety, theft and vandalism.  For example, despite education, warnings, gates and signage, hundreds of people are struck by trains each year, whether in subway stations, on bridges or in tunnels. In addition to these safety concerns, the majority of rail assets to be secured are located outdoors, and while most outdoor security applications incorporate clearly defined perimeter areas, this simply isn’t possible with rails and their associated bridges, tunnels and the railway itself. At minimum, tracks and nearby roadways have to remain open to enable traffic flow. Even in areas where defined boundaries may be feasible, the cost could be prohibitive given the scale of the rail network. Creating virtual fences with smart video Today, Class 1 freight carriers and metro passenger systems are taking advantage of smart video-based solutions to secure railway assets to prevent tragedies from occurring and to secure the larger rail network as a whole. These emerging, effective and cost-efficient systems include thermal cameras, PTZ tracking solutions and target-mapping display software and can automatically detect, locate and verify intrusions in real time, solving the toughest outdoor and perimeter security problems the rail industry faces – from preventing theft and vandalism to addressing situations with potentially national consequences. For example, freight cars carrying valuable cargo are often left standing unattended at wayside locations, making them ideal targets for thieves. And while it may be unlawful to enter or remain on railroad property without the owner’s consent, enforcing these laws with conventional resources is expensive and often ineffective – as evidenced by the number of graffiti-covered train cars traveling the rails. By extension, if individuals are able to access rail yards to vandalise trains, they could just as easily place explosives on or near a car carrying toxic chemicals. Because it is impractical to place a physical barrier like a fence directly across the operating area of a train, the open and exposed nature of rail yards exposes railway assets to tremendous risk. Today’s technology, however, empowers the rail industry to combat these threats, making it possible to place a virtual fence around these locations using smart thermal video to detect someone entering the operational area. Upon detecting an intruder, the system determines the exact location of the intrusion and automatically zooms in on the action, tracking the intruder using PTZ cameras. Employing a high degree of image processing, smart thermal cameras can amplify small differences between the temperature of a person and the background to accurately detect intruders even in conditions that are less than ideal Challenging lighting conditions Rail security and perimeter applications typically involve low-light conditions, which in the past made traditional visible-light video solutions impractical and largely ineffective because of the large number of nuisance alarms that could be generated by small animals, debris, weather conditions, poor lighting, vibrations and other factors. The likelihood of an alarm being valid was so small that the sheer number of false detections could actually condition operators to either ignore alerts or disengage the system altogether. Thermal imaging meets video analytics Today, smart thermal video cameras equipped with video analytics have emerged as effective and cost-efficient intrusion detection solutions that address a wide variety of security concerns. Because thermal cameras “see” heat, they are ideal for detecting people in complete darkness and full sunlight, making them a 24-hour security solution. Employing a high degree of image processing, smart thermal cameras can amplify small differences between the temperature of a person and the background to accurately detect intruders even in conditions that are less than ideal. Other innovations to boost rail security Some systems incorporate integrated GPS technology to determine the size and speed of detected targets over longer distances to minimise nuisance alerts while also providing critical information about the location of an intrusion. On-board image processing is also effective at eliminating nuisance alarms caused by wind, rain, small animals and other anomalies that plague visible light cameras. Built-in electronic stabilisation allows smart thermal cameras to overcome the challenge of false alerts caused by wind or train movement. Once an intrusion along a rail line or rail car storage lot has been detected and assessed by a smart thermal camera, one or more visible PTZ cameras can automatically point at and zoom in to the location of the intrusion to provide further information to allow security staff to assess the situation and determine the appropriate response. Thermal cameras: Reliable security and strong ROI Thermal cameras are also capable of detecting intruders over huge areas – as far as 600 meters away or over an area as wide as a football field – reducing the number of cameras needed for an application, as well as the associated infrastructure and construction costs. This enables thermal cameras to provide a comprehensive means to augment existing security measures with significant cost savings and strong return on investment. Smart thermal cameras have tremendous potential for increasing the safety and security of rail operations. The reliable alerts these cameras generate deliver enhanced situational awareness of events, allowing security personnel to be more effective. These solutions make it possible to focus attention on intrusions and other areas of interest when it is most needed to strengthen rail carriers’ resiliency to the threats of vandalism, theft, terrorism and to improve outcomes.

Thermal video analytics identify intruders despite background water movement or glare off the water Ports represent a major point of vulnerability that could have potentially devastating effects on a nation’s economy. Securing a nation's ports is essential, and port perimeter security is the first line of defence against disruption to global commerce. In this article, SightLogix CEO, John Romanowich, explains how thermal cameras with embedded video analytics have become a best-of-breed solution for port perimeter security. Ports cover large geographic areas that include vast and varied perimeters that are not capable of being secured the typical way. For example, fences aren't feasible for the waterside segment of a perimeter. Physical barriers also do not provide the necessary situational awareness over the large areas typical for a port setting. Additional elements that impact port security include: Location – Ports are often adjacent to public areas or neighbourhoods where pedestrian intruders represent both security and safety threats. Some ports are located near densely populated urban areas, requiring security to carefully monitor and restrict perimeter access. Environment – Challenges of climate, weather and large areas of coverage pose additional difficulties for ports and maritime applications. Port security personnel must be alerted immediately when a breach in security occurs to allow them to respond in a timely and effective manner.  Outdoor systems must provide overall situational awareness, including the accurate size, location and nature of an event as it unfolds, while avoiding nuisance alarms. Lighting is often poor or unavailable along extensive port perimeters due to cost and lack of infrastructure. Threats Include the wide range of possible risks that ports are susceptible to, from theft to vandalism to sabotage. Port security covers a gamut of applications, including rail security, electrical yard protection and chemical safety. When it comes to protecting the port perimeter, technologies such as thermal cameras and outdoor video analytics address the particular needs of the port environment and serve as a critical first line of defence Advantages of using thermal cameras for day/night port surveillance  Achieving security awareness around port perimeters comes down to timely, credible alerts with detail to respond. Knowing the nature and location of an intrusion is the key to mounting an effective response. Smart thermal cameras operate day or night, and can “see” what the eye would miss, even over large outdoor areas in complete darkness. Recent advances in thermal camera image processing have expanded their traditional role as “night vision” cameras to 24-hour perimeter security solutions, making them an excellent choice for solving port security challenges. Thermal cameras that have substantially more on-board image processing accurately detect the presence of unauthorised persons anywhere across site perimeters, enclaves, and isolated outdoor assets, while filtering the effects of environmental elements. Smart cameras with sufficient processing can provide accurate detection over large areas, regardless of wind, weather or the movement of small animals, trees or blowing trash. Thermal cameras can also accurately discriminate legitimate targets from extraneous motion, while presenting very clear details about the scene. In a port perimeter application, thermal video analytics can identify intruders despite background water movement or glare off the water. Economics are important when securing large outdoor areas Thermal cameras can also geo-register their field-of-view to GPS coordinates. This allows the analytics to make accurate determinations regarding target location, size, bearing and speed, critical details for securing large areas like ports. Such geo-registration can be used to display a target’s precise location against a topology map of the port to pinpoint the location of an intrusion in real time. The same information can be used to automatically steer a PTZ camera to zoom and follow detected targets for making fast response decisions. Economics are important when securing large outdoor areas such as port perimeters, especially given the tight budgets many port operators have to work with. Outdoor surveillance involves additional infrastructure costs, including construction, trenching, camera poles, network connectivity, video display and storage. New thermal analytic cameras can operate at twice the distance and cover four times the area, creating a larger buffer zone for early detection of intruders, along with a direct economic benefit: fewer thermal analytic cameras are needed to protect the same location, lowering overall costs accordingly. The first line of defence The economic impact of a nation’s ports, and of ports around the world, is a good indicator of the importance of providing proper maritime security. Clearly, a lot is at stake as port management and local, state and federal governments evaluate the best security technologies to protect these important assets. When it comes to protecting the port perimeter, technologies such as thermal cameras and outdoor video analytics address the particular needs of the port environment and serve as a critical first line of defence.

SightLogix, the technology pioneer for smart thermal camera systems, announces that Charlie Platipodis, a security industry veteran with over 30 years of executive sales leadership, has joined the company as vice president of sales and marketing. Charlie offered several factors that explained his rationale for joining SightLogix. “I was immediately struck by the company’s passion for building products on a foundation of great detection and high performance. Securing outdoors has always been hard, but SightLogix is really at the vanguard with a system that detects intruders at an impressively high level of reliability." Customer-focused company "There was also a long list of five-star customers," he continued, "who have the luxury to choose any security product but keep choosing SightLogix, because they recognise performance as the ultimate criteria. Finally, I saw a customer-focused company that listens to their partners to solve real problems with systems that are adaptable, affordable, and easy to use. In my experience, that’s a rare combination and a winning strategy.” We are thrilled to welcome Charlie Platipodis to SightLogix" “We are thrilled to welcome Charlie Platipodis to SightLogix,” said John Romanowich, SightLogix president and CEO. “Charlie’s vast experience implementing the processes and strategies for sales expansion will strengthen our existing critical infrastructure markets and accelerate our exposure among firms seeking to provide superior outdoor detection in the fast-growing remote video market.” Outdoor perimeter systems Charlie is a well-known and highly respected sales executive with an extensive record of success. Most recently, he served as vice president of sales and vice president of national accounts for SecurityLink, where he helped grow the company to number two in North America. Additionally, Charlie served as vice president of sales and marketing for GDI, a provider of end-to-end outdoor perimeter systems. Before entering the security industry, Charlie held executive leadership positions with Xerox Learning Systems and Learning International, where he implemented sales, coaching, and management programs, while additionally developing new channels of distribution and strategic alliances. For the last several years, Charlie has been helping companies formulate the strategy for sales, marketing and reorganisations as an independent consultant.

V5 Systems, a provider of self-powered outdoor security and computing solutions, has been selected by Pelco, by Schneider Electric , for integration with its V5 Camera Adaptive Platform (V5 CAP). The integration will enable Pelco to expand the capabilities of its world-class Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras to the outdoor security market in areas without fixed power and communications. As a result, public safety can be improved in any outdoor area, even remote zones or blind spots. Pelco is a global provider of professional video surveillance and security system solutions and technologies, supported by a comprehensive portfolio of VMS and imaging products. The company’s Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras provide the perfect balance of performance and value, with exceptional resolution and Smart Compression to reduce bandwidth and storage requirements. V5 CAP features The V5 CAP is an ongoing power, computing and communications platform for 3rd party surveillance cameras. The V5 CAP features: Ongoing power via a combination of proprietary bullet-resistant solar technology and a battery management system Computing platform enabling easy integration of 3rd party cameras Up to 1TB of onboard video storage with the ability to transfer data to the cloud or back-server Wireless communications via Wi-Fi, cellular or RF Self-powered devices for outdoor environment With Pelco’s Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras integrated on the V5 CAP, the cameras have been transformed into self-powered devices that can be rapidly deployed in virtually any outdoor environment. The solution further documents V5 Systems’ leadership in bringing video surveillance to the outdoors where there is no ready access to fixed power. The innovative solution can benefit any organisation in need of outdoor security, including school campuses, law enforcement, as well as those in the oil and gas, city surveillance and transportation markets. Future collaborative expansions Validating the Pelco Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras on V5 Systems platform is the first step of this collaboration. Several more Pelco integrations, including software integrations, are slated to launch in 2018. "Our V5 CAP is an innovative platform, which is proving enormously popular as a platform for 3rd party applications. It enables Pelco surveillance cameras to expand its market for HD video surveillance to the outdoors. The integration with Pelco Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras is part of our partner-centric business model, which enables us to bring the benefits of our V5 Systems technology to our partners in the HD video camera industry," the president of V5 Systems, Mazin Bedwan, stated. "These partnerships support our mission to enhance public safety and the quality of life in all outdoor areas." Delivering market-specific solutions John Roman, Pelco Vice President of Global Strategic Accounts and Sales Support, commented, “We welcome the integration of our Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras with the V5 Camera Adaptive Platform as it further expands our ability to deliver market-specific solutions in core vertical markets. Now campuses, cities, airports and seaports, oil and gas facilities and municipalities can implement the proven performance and value our Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras in outdoor locations where connection to an electrical grid is not available.” The V5 CAP and Pelco Sarix Professional IP Surveillance Cameras combo can be deployed in under 30 minutes, providing security in areas once deemed impossible due to the lack of power and connectivity.

SightSensors are thermal cameras with integrated video analytics, automatically detecting intruders Airport security has been greatly enhanced for Torp Sandefjord Airport, Norway through the deployment of SightLogix smart thermal intrusion detection cameras. Installed in 2014, the solution has been providing long-range, automated protection over key areas of the airport. Airport security risks As a popular alternative to Oslo Airport, Torp Sandefjord serves approximately 1.5 million passengers a year traveling to Western Europe as well as emerging economies in Eastern Europe, where risks from cargo theft, avionics theft, and controlled substance smuggling require constant vigilance. Additionally, high-profile incidents at airports around the world made it clear to Sandefjord’s directors that they needed to strengthen their airport security posture. Solving airport security challenges with technology Before SightLogix, Sandefjord had been relying on a combination of perimeter fences, surveillance cameras and roving guards to protect the site. Looking for a more effective solution, the airport turned to SightLogix Certified Integrator Focus Security, a Norwegian security firm dedicated to solving security challenges for critical assets throughout northern Europe. They suggested the airport move from a passive security posture to a pre-emptive automated approach using SightLogix SightSensors. SightSensors are thermal cameras with integrated video analytics, automatically detecting intruders over large outdoor sites with high accuracy and low costs. SightSensors offer several capabilities that make them an excellent choice for the difficult job of protecting airport perimeters. As thermal devices, they detect intruders in complete darkness as well as glare conditions caused by the rising or setting sun, headlights, reflected light and other sources. SightSensors also support built-in electronic stabilisation to ensure a high probability of detection without false alerts caused by wind or airport vibrations. And they are capable of detecting intruders over long and wide distances, up to 600 meters away, allowing a single camera to cover the same area that would require many visible light cameras. This enables Torp Sandefjord Airport to take advantage of significant cost savings while ensuring accurate and reliable intruder detection. The SightLogix airport security system at Torp With the smart thermal solution in place, intruders that violate rules trigger an alarm, sending video of the event and the target’s precise GPS location to the airport’s Security Operations Centre, where security personnel monitor and verify the threat in real time. The target’s location is simultaneously projected onto a sitemap of the airport for situational awareness. The result is a blanket of automated awareness around all of the critical areas of the expansive airport. “The SightLogix system has taken Sandefjord Airport to the forefront of land-based security technology at airports,” said Ellen Sandnes of Torp Sandefjord Airport. “We offer a safe and enjoyable travel experience to our customers.” By enhancing the airport’s security with, round the clock intruder detection, the airport realised great cost savings by leveraging existing personnel much more effectively. Instead of hiring additional guards, which in that part of Europe can cost up to $25,000 per month, the existing force has been empowered with instant notification about the nature and location of a security breach day and night, and can initiate a fast and direct response. “Achieving security awareness at airports is a global challenge for the transportation industry,” said John Romanowich, SightLogix President and CEO. “We are pleased that SightLogix solutions are helping solve these challenges for Torp Sandefjord Airport.”

SightLogix has written a concise guidebook to assist site managers, security directors, policy makers, architects and engineers, and integrators responsible for planning, selecting, and installing a smart video-based security system. Titled “The Smart Video Security Handbook,” the book contains real-world information and advice on all the steps necessary to create and implement a truly effective video security system, while offering a roadmap about how the technology may be used in the future. “The technologies discussed in the Smart Video Security Handbook present a profound opportunity to make the world safer, and yet the fundamental concepts have been largely misunderstood,” said John Romanowich, CEO, SightLogix, Inc. “We wrote this book to demystify the issues and help security professionals achieve true situational awareness for outdoor applications - and in the future - indoor environments.” The Smart Video Security Handbook incorporates many of the lessons learned about smart video technology and its practical applications. Topics include: Advantages and limits of smart thermal video security How to select the proper equipment and use it effectively Designing systems for effectiveness, easy implementation, and low cost Ensuring maximum site coverage and prompt response to events Sample site plans for security systems, with diagrams and explanations Using smart thermal video with a security operations centre (SOC) or central station (CS) monitoring service New directions for indoor security applications

SightSensor XA product line has been expanded to detect inbound intruders up to 595 meters away SightLogix, the technology leader for smart thermal cameras, is showcasing new thermal intrusion detection solutions here at ASIS. Innovations on display include SightWrap, a smart thermal security service that makes military-grade intrusion detection available for a low monthly cost, and the enhanced wide-area SightSensor XA smart thermal camera that can cover an area the size of a football field. “SightLogix’s smart thermal technology redefines the economics for outdoor security,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “By enhancing the performance of our solutions, reducing costs and offering services, SightLogix has transformed the way outdoor security can be achieved.” Cost-efficient solution for outdoor applications SightSensor XA combines a higher resolution 640x480 imager with onboard video analytics to deliver extended wide-area detection, enabling a single smart thermal camera to detect intruders over an area as large as football field. This capability lets a SightSensor XA replace four or more cameras resulting in the lowest cost per square metre for large outdoor security applications. By reducing camera counts and the required support infrastructure, SightSensor XA delivers a highly cost-efficient solution for outdoor applications. New performance features Wider-area coverage: SightSensor XA product line has been expanded to detect inbound intruders up to 595 meters away, over an area wide as 15 acres. Gyro-based video stabilisation: Eliminates nuisance alerts and misdetects from wind and vibrations. Ideal for bridges and transportation infrastructure, airports, tall poles, and other applications where camera movement causes alarms. SightWrap places the power of a high-end intrusion detection system within reach of countless new customers who need to protect their outdoor assets from theft. This new approach to outdoor security requires no up-front capital costs, instead the hardware, software and monitoring services are bundled into one package. SightWrap delivers all the benefits of SightLogix established smart thermal imaging technology for an affordable monthly fee while providing RMR opportunities to a select group of certified channel partners.

The webcast will centre around authentication, access control, perimeter security and surveillance of pipeline assets SightLogix President and CEO John Romanowich will participate with other industry experts to discuss the challenges faced by the petrochemical and energy sectors in securing remote sites. This Security Industry Association (SIA) webcast will be held Sep 23, 2015 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EDT, and will center around authentication, access control, perimeter security and surveillance of critical pipeline assets, including issues related to federal requirements such as the DHS Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards Program. Mr. Romanowich will be joined by Bob Force, Vice Chair of the AFPM Security Council and Director of Corporate Security for Tesoro, William Gillespie, Security Project Manager, Shell Oil Company, and by Adam Shane, Senior Systems Design Architect, AMAG Technology. Mr. Romanowich is the President and CEO of SightLogix, a manufacturer of smart video security systems for protecting critical outdoor sites. He is a board member of SIA and chairs the SIA Perimeter Security Standards Committee. Mr. Romanowich has held management positions in video technologies with Intel, IBM and the Sarnoff Corporation, and co-founded Pyramid Vision Technologies, a pioneer in intelligent video surveillance acquired by L3 Communications.

Romanowich will serve as moderator for a panel discussion titled “Securing the Electric Grid” SightLogix President and CEO John Romanowich will moderate a panel discussion on electric grid security and serve as a panelist for a session on airport security at the upcoming SIA Government Summit 2015, which will be held June 8-10 in Washington, D.C.    Topic for discussion “A number of high-profile physical security breaches at both substations and airports have highlighted the need for reliable intrusion detection systems to secure these valuable assets,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “These Government Summit sessions will address the many challenges associated with each of these important types of facilities and offer best practices for ensuring that they are protected.”    Romanowich will serve as moderator for a panel discussion titled “Securing the Electric Grid,” which will take place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9. During this session, representatives from the security and electric power industries will be discussing what to expect from key compliance requirements in 2015, such as NERC CIP-014 which will drive physical security upgrades at critical substations and control centers throughout the U.S.   The following morning, Romanowich will serve as a panelist for “Keeping Air Travelers Safe: Rapid Growth in Airport Security Improvements and Financing Need,” where he will be joined by aviation sector experts for a discussion on the growing need for airport security improvements, including perimeter security, as well as evolving trends affecting funding sources. This session is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10.

The integration combines SightLogix long-range detection with AXIS Q60-E Series for protecting perimeters SightLogix, the established leader for smart thermal camera security systems, announces the integration of its SightTracker GPS-based auto tracking pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) controller with Axis Communications’  IP-based dome network cameras. The integration, which combines SightLogix accurate, long-range detection with AXIS Q60-E Series, delivers a complete security solution for protecting perimeters and outdoor assets.  Supporting IP-based PTZ cameras: “Securing large outdoor areas requires real-time, detailed information about the location and nature of an intrusion,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “The integration of SightTracker and Axis PTZ cameras delivers the best-in-class combination of outdoor intrusion detection and zoomed-in target detail for securing outdoor areas.” With this integrated solution, made using Axis’ API, SightTracker has been enhanced from supporting select analogue cameras to also control qualified IP-based PTZ cameras. When used in conjunction with SightLogix new wide-area SightSensor XA and Axis Communications’ PTZ dome cameras, end users can now detect and verify targets over areas four times greater than other solutions. About SightTracker: SightTracker solves the challenge of an operator trying to manually steer a PTZ camera to locate an outdoor target. SightTracker automatically moves the Axis PTZ camera without human intervention and tracks the target within the PTZ camera’s field of view, providing hands-free scene context over large areas. If needed, SightTracker’s auto tracking can be overridden using manual controls, and then automatic operation can be resumed once manual control is disengaged. Targets are displayed in great detail within the end user’s video management system while the target’s location is presented on the SightMonitor map or a physical security information management (PSIM) system. The result is a comprehensive security solution that provides critical “what and when” information about an intrusion to enable fast decision-making while capturing the event for evidence.

Newly introduced solutions – SightWrap, SightSensor XA & SightTracker will be on display SightLogix, the established technology leader for smart thermal camera systems, is showcasing groundbreaking thermal intrusion detection solutions here at ISC West. Innovations on display include a new smart thermal security service called SightWrap that makes military-grade intrusion detection available for a low monthly cost, opening up exciting RMR opportunities for dealers; the new wide-area SightSensor XA smart thermal camera that can cover an area the size of a football field, and a unique integration with Axis for improved video assessment. “SightLogix’s smart thermal camera breakthroughs redefine the economics for outdoor security,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “By increasing the performance of our solutions, reducing costs and offering services, SightLogix is transforming the way outdoor security can be achieved.” Three newly introduced solutions Among the technologies SightLogix is displaying at ISC West are three newly introduced solutions: SightWrap places the power of a high-end intrusion detection system within reach of countless new customers who need to protect their outdoor assets from theft. This new approach to outdoor security requires no up-front capital costs - instead, the hardware, software and monitoring services are bundled into one package. SightWrap delivers all the benefits of SightLogix’s established smart thermal imaging technology for an affordable monthly fee while providing RMR opportunities to a select group of certified channel partners. SightSensor XA delivers extended wide-area coverage, enabling a single camera to protect an area as large as football field. This capability lets a single SightSensor XA replace four or more cameras resulting in the lowest cost per square meter for large outdoor security applications such as substations and utilities, rail, airports, energy and chemical facilities. By combining a higher resolution 640x480 imager with enhanced onboard video analytics, the SightSensor XA detects intruders with high accuracy and low nuisance alerts. And by reducing camera counts and the required support infrastructure, SightSensor XA delivers a highly cost-efficient solution for these applications. SightTracker integration with Axis Communications Q60-E line of IP-based dome cameras combines accurate long-range detection with HD video assessment to provide end users with greater on-target detail than previously possible with no need for human intervention. When long-range SightTracker detects an intrusion, it automatically positions an Axis PTZ camera to view the target in great detail. With this new integration SightTracker now enables effective automated control of both IP dome and analog cameras. New-generation SightSensor thermal camera In addition to the solutions described above, SightLogix will demonstrate their new third-generation SightSensor thermal camera. Engineered for low power consumption, this camera enables solar and wireless use to reduce the infrastructure requirements for outdoor security projects. Because system infrastructure costs typically dwarf the cost of cameras themselves in such installations, these new-generation cameras will allow security systems to be installed in areas where it was not previously viable.

The new SightSensor XA provides accurate intruder detection over an area as large as a football field With a higher-resolution imager and unmatched video processing power, the new SightSensor XA wide-area smart thermal camera from SightLogix provides four times the coverage area, superior detection accuracy, and the lowest cost per square meter of coverage than any other outdoor security solution, including thermal, low-light and megapixel cameras. SightSensor XA for accurate intruder detection “The SightSensor XA represents a breakthrough in outdoor security that transforms the economics of what can be achieved,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “We’re so confident in the performance of the SightSensor XA that we invite customers with active projects to compare our solution to any other outdoor security approach and let us prove its clear advantage.” The new SightSensor XA provides accurate intruder detection over an area as large as a football field, replacing many conventional cameras and the infrastructure that would have otherwise been required. With its unmatched coverage area and detection accuracy, SightSensor XA reduces overall Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) establishing new performance and price benchmarks for outdoor intruder detection applications. SightLogix’s proven technology The SightSensor XA builds on SightLogix’s proven technology to detect intruders with high accuracy and low nuisance alerts in the outdoors, and provides an effective and affordable solution for deterring crime, vandalism and other disruptions over very large areas both day and night and under all conditions. Lower camera counts and reduced infrastructure make the SightSensor XA an ideal intrusion detection solution for outdoor security applications such as substations, metal recyclers and scrap yards, auto dealer rear lots, as well as critical infrastructure applications including rail, bridges, airports and refineries. Sightlogix will showcase SightSensor XA at ISC West 2015.

SightLogix, the established technology leader for smart thermal camera systems, announces the launch of a new outdoor security service that makes the benefits of their established technology available to end-users for an affordable monthly fee, while providing RMR participation to a select group of certified channel partners. SightWrap, which bundles hardware, software, and monitoring services, requires no up-front capital costs, and places the power of thermal intrusion detection within reach of thousands of new customers who need to protect their outdoor assets from theft. “SightWrap builds upon SightLogix’ heritage for superior, around the clock, all-weather security solutions,” said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. “By making a high-end intrusion detection system available through an affordable monthly fee, SightWrap fulfils a long-sought goal of the security industry, which is to make outdoor security as reliable as an indoor alarm system.” Opportunity to get involved with RMR services SightWrap offers security dealers an excellent opportunity to get involved with RMR services very easily, and without the need to invest in expensive infrastructure or a security operations centre. SightWrap utilises the same high-accuracy SightSensors that already protect critical assets including airports, refineries, nuclear power plants and federal facilities where a high reliability of detection and a low rate of nuisance alarms are essential. SightWrap customers gain the full benefit of this military-grade system and monitoring at a much lower operational cost, with no capital expenditure.  High capability of detecting intrusions “What sets this solution apart from other options is the high capability of detecting intrusions with very few nuisance alarms,” said Mr. Romanowich. “SightLogix technology was designed to detect intruders in total darkness, bright sun, and adverse weather, and provide actionable information about an unfolding event in real time. In applications like car dealerships, scrap yards, maintenance yards and storage facilities where a single intrusion event can be very costly, SightWrap represents an effective, affordable solution.”

Where did all these people come from? That was the happy question among exhibitors pleased with the brisk booth traffic on the first day of ISC West in Las Vegas. The aisles on the traditionally busy first day of the show did seem especially crowded at the Sands Convention Center.Lower pricing was one theme emerging on the first day of the show, with camera manufacturer Samsung leading the way with the introduction of its WiseNet Lite cameras, versions of its popular line that have fewer features to enable a price point that can compete with lower-price competitors. German manufacturer Mobotix is also looking to lower costs, in its case by introducing an indoor camera line at a lower price point and employing efficient snap-together manufacturing processes to keep prices competitive. Axis Communications at ISC West Axis Communications kicked off ISC West with a pre-show press conference built around a baseball theme; their demonstration of the quality and impact resistance of Axis cameras involved hitting them with baseball bats. Axis is expanding beyond its core business in IP cameras (and an ongoing offering in access control) with additional devices that can be used with the “Internet of Things.” At ISC West, they introduced a new IP-enabled loud speaker that uses SIP protocol (compatible with voice over IP telephones, for example), as well as a “network video door station,” combining video (including WDR and low-light performance), two-way communications and PoE for easy installation indoors or outdoors. (Might a non-video IP intercom be introduced in the near future? Could be.) "Axis is positioning Zipstream as a technology that can pave the way for faster implementation of 4K higher resolution cameras, while minimising the cameras’ impact on bandwidth and storage needs..." Among the other Axis news is Zipstream compression that cuts bandwidth consumption by more than 50 percent, according to the company. Fully compatible with the H.264 standard, Zipstream isolates and preserves important details in an image, while saving bandwidth and storage by “filtering out” unimportant parts of an image (such as the sky) and applying additional compression to those irrelevant areas. Axis is positioning Zipstream as a technology that can pave the way for faster implementation of 4K higher resolution cameras, while minimising the cameras’ impact on bandwidth and storage needs. They also see it as an interim approach until the newer H.265 compression standard becomes more widespread in the market, thus avoiding any delay embracing newer video capabilities. New multi-sensor camera: Axis also unveiled a 180-degree multi-sensor camera that combines three 4K sensors with 30 frames-per-second in a stylish and discreet housing; it comes pre-focused from the factory with the three sensors moving together for easy installation. The Axis event ended with brief comments about the pending acquisition of Axis by Canon. “The industry is changing with a lot of consolidation, and Canon can provide benefits that we as the current owners could not,” said Martin Gren, Axis co-founder. “Canon has guaranteed they will let Axis operate as an independent company.” Gren says that the benefit of Canon’s technology capabilities in the areas of cameras, lenses and imaging will be obvious at future shows when Axis will likely introduce “20 products rather than 14.” “The industry is changing with a lot of consolidation, and Canon can provide benefits that we as the current owners could no.” End-to-end solutions from IDIS: The Axis news was just the start of a day full of new product introductions, and even companies exhibiting for the first time at ISC West. Perhaps the largest new entrant is Korean video manufacturer IDIS, which is making a splash with a big booth and a timely emphasis on end-to-end IP solutions that are “plug-and-play” -- their term for it is “Direct IP.” IDIS also offers a “total solution,” including a selection of NVRs -- for small, medium and large systems -- that their IP cameras plug directly into, and that can be tied together into enterprise-size systems using their IDIS Solutions Suite. Easy installation can help integrators protect their margins by saving time and money, and the simplicity also allows traditional analogue installers to embrace IP video (and IDIS DirectCX provides a migration path from analog to IP for any system). (IDIS is compatible with other third-party cameras using ONVIF standards.) SightSensor XA thermal camera: SightLogix, a thermal analytics company, is displaying its third generation product -- the SightSensor XA wide-area thermal camera -- that increases the image sensor array from 320x240 pixels to 640x480 pixels, and processes the full image area. The result is an extended, “volumetric” detection area that allows transition from an approach of protecting a perimeter to protecting specific (and larger) areas. For example, now instead of protecting an airport’s perimeter, they can protect the area around where the airplanes are (and therefore detect “insider threats” in addition to intruders). New markets for the more economical solution include automobile lots, scrap metal yards, maintenance yards, storage areas, etc. President and CEO John Romanowich calls it a “massive area outdoor burglar alarm” (with no false alarms). The system can even detect intrusion in an entire stadium. SightLogix’ new SightWrap is a monitored alarm service that works with a dealer’s central station (and also provides recurring revenue).  Much more to report, stay tuned ….

Thermal cameras can often be used to cover larger areas than standard visible light cameras Smart thermal cameras use on-board video analytics and a high degree of video processing to detect people very accurately in complete darkness, bright sun, and bad weather over the typically large perimeters associated with transportation applications. Combining manpower and smart thermal technology makes security for transportation assets more effective. At the end of the day, it takes people to address active threats; technology, when it provides accurate, reliable information, extends guard force capabilities. This approach lends itself particularly well to large transportation assets, whether the perimeter of an airport, seaport or rail yard. The same technology can also drive accountability: If an alert is presented and not responded to promptly, it can be escalated to the next level of command, ensuring the effectiveness of the entire security function. “Often transportation end users rely on guards to secure very large areas under tight budgets,” says John Romanowich, CEO, SightLogix, Inc. “We can make their efforts more comprehensive by augmenting their capabilities with technology to increase awareness about unfolding events that they simply can’t know about otherwise.” For instance, thermal cameras can “see” in the dark and bright sun, in fog, bad weather and detect over very large areas. Greater awareness of unfolding events allows guards to appropriately focus their efforts where they are needed most, at the right time. SightSensor smart thermal cameras have on-board electronic stabilisation to remove camera shake caused by train, plane or car vibrations, which would otherwise cause nuisance alerts for most video analytics systems. They can also project geo-registered target information onto a site map of the facility so an operator knows exactly where the intrusion is taking place and can respond directly. Using heat to detect intruders, SightSensor cameras solve the biggest problem with past perimeter security systems in the outdoors, which has been high nuisance and false alerts that operators eventually ignore. For example, the New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) uses SightLogix smart thermal cameras to secure five Hudson River bridges, detecting authorised pedestrians, helping manage traffic incidents and securing bridges against vandalism and sabotage. SightSensors operate in all weather. They can detect people and boats in any lighting condition, ignoring car headlights, reflections off water, shadows from clouds, and other movement that would cause alarms for visible light cameras. Geo-referenced video analytics send alarms when a boat lingers too long near bridge pylons or a car breaks down, representing safety hazards. The New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) uses SightLogix smart thermal cameras to secure five Hudson River bridges, detecting authorised pedestrians, helping manage traffic incidents and securing bridges against vandalism and sabotage Bridges are exposed and vulnerable to incidents from all sides. SightSensors use geospatial video analytics to detect intrusions the instant violations occur. By sensing heat rather than visible light, they are a perfect “human detector” in both sun and darkness without additional lighting, and ignore headlights, reflections and movements of small animals, trees or blowing trash while accurately detecting unauthorized persons at great distances. The system also reduces false alarms with electronic image stabilisation, which removes movement caused by wind and passing cars, a necessity for reducing false positives in a bridge application. According to the NYSBA director, SightSensors provide “a huge return on investment.” For example, securing one area with free access alongside woods could take thousands of feet of chain link fence, outdoor motion sensing devices and surveillance cameras to investigate alarms. SightSensors combine this functionality into a single system, providing cost savings. ROI for the SightLogix systems comes with the reduction of financial losses; for example, the cost to refurbish a single railroad car following an act of vandalism could be as high as $5,000 to $10,000, along with lost revenue when a car is out of service. Thermal cameras with video analytics improve system ROI by providing highly reliable real-time detection that can be used to avoid incidents or stop an incident in progress. Thermal cameras can often be used to cover larger areas than standard visible light cameras. Therefore, system camera counts can be reduced, with a resulting lower infrastructure costs to further improve the ROI equation.

Combining thermal imaging with analytics provides a robust system Prices are dropping for thermal cameras. Now they are much more affordable for non-military customers – and more likely to be used in combination with video analytics. Combining thermal imaging with analytics provides a robust system; the technologies work well together. Thermal cameras make it easier to detect motion because you are eliminating much of the detail and only emphasising temperature “colours,” says Brian Lane, director of marketing, 3VR. When video analytics are tuned to be used with thermal cameras, alerts are only sent if there is motion with colour signatures between 95 and 105 degrees F, for example. This removes motion from trees in the wind, birds, and other things that cause false positives. Thermography analytics have a host of uses within security and other industries. Thermal surveillance cameras can be combined with video analytics to deliver sophisticated image interpretation and comprehension for customers requiring detection in low-light or zero-light environments, says Maor Mishkin, director, Video Analytics Product Champion, DVTEL. DVTEL has developed the ioimage Thermal line as an automated detection solution for security deployments in critical infrastructure, perimeter security, oil and gas, and transportation markets. Analytic encoders allow the cameras to deliver an advanced level of analytic capabilities to reduce false alarms while maintaining a high probability of detection. Thermal imaging is ideal for a variety of low-light conditions, says Mishkin. The infrared detector senses the energy (or heat) that all objects, structures and people emit. This approach enables a more consistent image than traditional cameras in harsh environments, such as those affected by fog, haze, smog, smoke, rain and extreme variances in temperature. By combining video processing video analytics and raw video together in an edge device, you can get greater detection range – reducing costs – and greater detection accuracy, which increases security Thermal cameras sense heat and have always been known as the perfect “human detector” for night applications, says John Romanowich, CEO, SightLogix, Inc. Now they perform very well in bright sun and bad weather, making them an excellent choice for securing sites around the clock, he adds. SightLogix combines thermal cameras with video analytics and supported with sufficient video processing. The company’s smart thermal cameras now accurately detect intruders with very low nuisance alerts even in the most difficult outdoor conditions, says Romanowich. SightLogix’ camera systems use electronic stabilisation to compensate for wind and vibrations and geo-registration capabilities to create accurate size filters that ignore the movement of small animals, trash, trees, etc. They are ruggedised to withstand temperature extremes, weather, sand and dust. With the right system, video analytics can deliver excellent security results, Romanowich says. Thermal camera costs continue to fall even as video processing continues to increase, allowing customers to deploy military-grade intrusion detection solutions to solve general problems that include theft and vandalism, he adds. In effect, smart thermal cameras expand the function of a burglar alarm from inside the building out to the perimeter, with the same level of reliability and low costs that we expect from home/office systems. SightLogix takes a different approach from other video analytics manufacturers. First, SightLogix products are focused exclusively on the outdoor market. Second, the company has determined the only way to provide accurate video analytics outdoors is to apply a very high level of video processing in advance of the video analytics using the raw thermal video data as it leave the imager, all combined into a single edge solution. “This is the only way to make outdoor video analytics accurate, repeatable and cost-effective,” says Romanowich. SightLogix recognised that an edge-based approach that ties the imager, video analytics and video processing tightly together is mandatory when designing a system capable of overcoming outdoor variables. This is because once video has been compressed and sent over the network to a separate server for analysis, there is not enough video detail available to differentiate relevant motion – such as a human intruder – from irrelevant motion, such as trash or trees blowing in the wind. By combining video processing video analytics and raw video together in an edge device, you can get greater detection range – reducing costs – and greater detection accuracy, which increases security.

The whitepaper details how smart thermal security solutions can help meet the requirements of NERC SightLogix has published a whitepaper which clarifies the new mandatory physical security requirements in the NERC CIP-014 reliability standard, developed by the North American Energy Reliability Corporation (NERC) for protecting the nation’s electric grid. The whitepaper details how smart thermal security solutions can help owners/operators meet the requirements of NERC while also addressing copper theft and vandalism challenges. “The need for reliable intrusion detection systems to protect electrical assets has never been higher,” said John Romanowich, CEO, SightLogix. “The concepts outlined in the NERC standards represent a sound and effective security practice for detecting and responding to breaches quickly, and smart thermal technology is ideally suited to meet the real-time awareness NERC requires for protecting the nation’s power grid.” Titled “A Commonsense Guide to Protecting Electrical Substations and Meeting NERC CIP-014,” the document includes a synopsis of the NERC CIP-014 guidelines and how those guidelines can be met with thermal detection solutions. Illustrating by example, there is also a case study outlining how a major U.S. utility improved security and lowered costs using smart thermal cameras. Traditionally, utilities have relied on a combination of some type of blind sensor – such as a fence sensor, beam, scanner or PIR sensor to act as an activity detector – along with video security solutions. However, according to Mr. Romanowich, the reliability and accountability of these systems is diminished by the many nuisance alerts they generate. Smart thermal cameras that incorporate video analytics increase the probability of intruder detection while greatly reducing the nuisance alarms. SightLogix smart thermal camera systems are being used at utilities throughout North America, Canada, Europe and the Middle East, protecting assets that include substations, solar farms, hydro facilities, power transmission and distribution, and nuclear power plants.

Video cameras are great tools for security at airports, but increasingly cameras are offering operational benefits, too. Anthony Incorvati, business development manager, critical infrastructure and transportation, Axis Communications, says cameras at airports today are often used for operations rather than (or in addition to) security. For example, cameras mounted at departure gates are not installed for security but rather for operations and maintenance, as a tool to help airlines meet their goals for on-time departure. The cameras might ensure that gate agents are processing people properly inside the terminal, or view how ramp crews might be causing a delay. Are food service and fueling suppliers delivering on time or late? There are other operations benefits, too. For example, a major airport in Texas mounts cameras at the entrances to restrooms with the primary purpose of counting people, says Incorvati. When a certain number of people have entered the restroom, it triggers an alarm to the Operations and Maintenance department to send a cleaning crew because the restroom has reached a maximum number of uses. “We are also seeing cameras initially installed because of security that are now being leveraged by others at the airport – risk management, operations – and that’s where you see return on investment (ROI),” says Incorvati. “It might be paid for by security, but it’s used by others – more and more users and uses, and not traditional ones.” As an example of the growth of video uses, Incorvati points to a “major East Coast airport” (in the United States) where he sees exciting trends related to implementation of IP video in the airport sector. About 10 years ago, this airport had probably around 70 analogue cameras covering the entire property. In 2013, Axis delivered its 1,000thcamera to the airport, and expects to deliver another 250 this year, and another 750 over the next four to five years according to the strategic plan. Eventually there will total about 2,000 cameras at the airport. An airport’s IT organisation often drives camera deployment, bringing various users of video surveillance to the table “If you think about who would be the main power users of the video surveillance system at this airport, your first thought might be the TSA, or Customs and Border Patrol, or airport security,” says Incorvati. “However, because of IP video, there are becoming more users and uses for the system. The users include folks from operations, maintenance, risk management, the airlines, etc. What’s happening is, IP video offers better image quality and can be easily distributed and managed. The maintenance director might say, ‘this image looks great, I want a camera over here now.’” Another use for video at airports is to monitor possible airport ground damage to aircraft, which can cost millions of dollars a year. Video surveillance can help to determine who and what is causing airport ground damage, whether it’s a crew member, a fuelling truck, or the plane itself driving into something. An airport’s IT organisation often drives camera deployment, bringing various users of video surveillance to the table. Although TSA funds pay for technology deployed in passenger screening areas, the systems are often implemented and managed by the airport, and the video can be used by other organisations in the airport. High-profile intrusions at airport sites around the world highlight another critical need at airports – perimeter security.  While most issues around security checkpoints and screening passengers in airport terminals have been resolved, there remains tremendous vulnerability where protection is still needed: at the perimeter. Many airports have little more than a chain-link fence between the Air Operations Area (AOA) and publicly-accessible areas, making it too easy for an individual to gain access to the runway, employee areas or parked aircraft, says John Romanowich, CEO, SightLogix, Inc. Actual incidents like this are continuing to make headlines. “In reality, it’s harder to get a bottle of water through a security checkpoint than it is to climb the fence at many airport,” says Romanowich. “On the positive side, technology now exists that addresses the need for accurate perimeter security. This technology is now increasingly coming down in cost, making it more likely to be deployed.” SightLogix provides smart thermal cameras that combine heat sensing and video analytics to detect intruders; high accuracy eliminates problems of high nuisance and false alarms, which operators eventually ignore.

SightLogix makes smart thermal camera system that prevent crime by detecting security violations in real-time SightLogix President and CEO John Romanowich has been invited to discuss best practices and new technologies for protecting airport perimeters at the “Symposium on Innovation in Aviation Security” being held this week in Montreal, Canada. The event, organised by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a U.N specialised agency, brings key decision makers together to explore how technology, tools and equipment can help meet existing and future aviation security challenges. “High-profile intrusions at airports around the world highlight the critical need for accurate, dependable intrusion detection systems to protect aviation assets,” said Mr. Romanowich. “While attention has been justifiably paid to securing passengers inside terminals, tremendous vulnerability remains at the perimeter. This discussion will present time-proven, government-validated solutions to protect airport perimeters cost effectively.” More information about the event is available at http://www.icao.int/Meetings/SIAS/Pages/default.aspx. Mr. Romanowich is the president and CEO of SightLogix, a leading smart camera supplier for outdoor security applications. Mr. Romanowich participated in developing the RTCA Standard for Airport Security (DO-230D) Perimeter Intrusion Detection Standards and currently serves as the Chairman of the Security Industry Association’s (SIA) Perimeter Security Standards Committee.

SightSensor avails solar and wireless capabilities that reduce infrastructure requirements for outdoor security projects SightLogix, the technology leader for smart thermal camera systems, is displaying the third generation of the company’s innovative SightSensor thermal camera here at ASIS 2014. The new SightSensor provides the most accurate security solution for outdoor applications while solving a fundamental economic challenge for the industry. At one-third the size and with reduced power consumption from prior generations, the new SightSensor avails solar and wireless capabilities that vastly reduce infrastructure requirements often needed for outdoor security projects. “Our new SightSensor smart thermal camera is redefining the expectations for outdoor security by shifting the emphasis from surveillance to crime prevention,” said John Romanowich, SightLogix President and CEO. “This new third generation SightSensor builds on SightLogix’ heritage of outdoor detection accuracy, fulfilling a long-sought promise of using smart thermal cameras as an outdoor burglar alarm.” Outdoor security projects encompass many infrastructure expenses that typically dwarf the cost of security cameras themselves. These include plans and permits for construction and trenching, installing electrical and communication wiring to remote areas, and on-site provisioning. The result has been a significant capital investment each time an organisation needs to secure a facility. The new SightSensor reduces costs in two ways: lower power consumption enables solar and wireless operation, and large coverage areas decrease the number of sensors needed when compared to any other smart camera solution. The result is a significant reduction in installation costs, making SightSensors ideal for a broad range of mainstream applications.                                                  With lens options that range from wide areas (90? FOV) to 600m distances, and a NEMA 4X, nitrogen-purged enclosure, SightSensor thermal cameras provide high Probability of Detect (PD) and a low Nuisance Alarm Rate (NAR) day and night, in all weather conditions.                             New features of the third generation SightLogix SightSensor thermal camera include: four times the on-board video processing of previous generations; greatly reduced power consumption, size and weight; support for ONVIF, H.264; audio messages triggered in response to alarm conditions; simplified video cabling and connections; and a flexible browser-based configuration option.

John Romanowich will moderate the webcast on September 10 at 1:00pm SightLogix President and CEO John Romanowich will moderate a webcast on Wednesday, September 10 at 1:00pm on impending regulations and their impact on owners and operators of the North American electric grid.The Security Industry Association (SIA) webcast will discuss the role for security providers to help utilities meet increased physical security requirements, the potential scope of applicable facilities, an explanation of the timelines for compliance, and details to resolve before the finalisation of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulation. Mr. Romanowich will be joined by Brian Harrell, Director of the Electricity Sector Information Sharing and Analysis Center of NERC and by David Batz, CISSP, Director, Cyber and Infrastructure Security, Edison Electric Institute (EEI). Mr. Romanowich is the President and CEO of SightLogix, a manufacturer of intelligent video surveillance systems. He is a board member of SIA and chairs the SIA Perimeter Security Standards Committee. Mr. Romanowich has held management positions in video technologies with Intel, IBM and the Sarnoff Corporation, and co-founded Pyramid Vision Technologies, a pioneer in intelligent video surveillance acquired by L3 Communications.

The project calls for SightSensor to be installed to monitor activities at a tunnel site under construction SightSensor video analytic thermal cameras from SightLogix have been deployed to increase security of the nation’s rail system for a major Class 1 railroad. The advanced video detection technology is being funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s 2011 Freight Rail Security Grant Program (FRSGP). Funds are allocated to freight railroad carriers that own railways in order to strengthen their ability to protect against threats, and to maintain the security of critical surface rail infrastructure such as bridges and tunnels. Communication Concepts Inc., a Florida-based certified SightLogix systems integrator was awarded the contract to design and install the systems. According to Mark Mills, President of Communication Concepts, the bid and awards process was different from conventional RFPs. In this instance, the rail company supplied a list of thermal imaging product selections from three different manufacturers that they had researched and deemed acceptable for use in the project. Having previous experience in designing and building SightLogix thermal camera solutions, Mills was certain that he had the best solution to meet the rail company’s requirements. “Typically in these scenarios, an integrator will ask the client which brand they prefer,” said Mills. “In this case, Communication Concepts felt very strongly about the SightLogix solution, and wouldn’t recommend using anything else. We preferred to take that approach than to install and maintain a system that we knew would not adequately detect intrusions with the high level of reliability to meet the customer’s requirements.” The scope of the projects range from perimeter security at railroad bridges spanning rivers and ravines to bridges located in remote and urban areas with constant river traffic. The project also calls for SightSensor systems to be installed on a temporary basis to monitor activities at a tunnel site under construction. To date, the customer has commissioned five rail bridges with the SightLogix system. Each bridge has 10 SightSensor thermal cameras for comprehensive wide area detection, along with two SightTrackers to automatically direct PTZ cameras for visual details about detected targets. An additional six locations have been commissioned, and implementation by Communication Concepts is underway. "The SightLogix technology has several unique features that were ideal for this project. For instance, the analytics can differentiate sizes" SightLogix SightSensors systems are smart thermal cameras with integrated video analytics that have been designed specifically for securing critical infrastructure in these types of harsh outdoor environments. They detect movement with a high degree of accuracy and provide clear, detailed images night and day. On-board video processing is used to accurately detect a person entering a secure area and filter nuisance alarms such as small animals, birds, flowing water, blowing debris or moving tree limbs. The cameras also use onboard image stabilisation to remove camera shake caused by passing trains, traffic and wind. Upon detecting an intruder, the system determines the exact location of the intrusion and the SightTrackers automatically zoom in on the action and track the intruder using the PTZ cameras. Mills adds, “The SightLogix technology has several unique features that were ideal for this project. For instance, the analytics can differentiate sizes. It’s not going to react to a barge passing under the bridge but it will detect and follow a canoe, and if that canoe stays under the bridge too long then alarms will go off. The fact that the analytic intelligence is on board the camera versus being a separate supporting technology also makes a big difference. It’s just faster and cleaner to install, configure and maintain.” The system provides visual alarm verification directly to the Video Management System, while sending target details such as size, speed and direction to the Physical Security Information Management system (PSIM). Systems are hard wired using a combination of T1 communication technology and copper. Mills also notes that in one of the recent jobs where renovation work is being done they installed the system using wireless technology. “Rail systems are the backbone of commerce and its protection is critical to our economy,” said John Romanowich, SightLogix President and CEO. “We are pleased to have our solution chosen to secure this critical rail infrastructure.”