Paul Kong

The new year 2019 is brimming with possibilities for the physical security industry, but will those possibilities prove to be good news or bad news for our market? Inevitably, it will be a combination of good and bad, but how much good and how bad? We wanted to check the temperature of the industry as it relates to expectations for the new year, so we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How optimistic is your outlook for the physical security industry in 2019? Why?

In today’s global economy, goods are manufactured all over the world and shipped to customers thousands of miles away. Where goods are manufactured thus becomes a mere detail. However, in the case of “Made in China”, the location of a manufacturer has become more high-profile and possibly more urgent. The U.S. government recently banned the use in government installations of video system components from two Chinese manufacturers, presumably because of cybersecurity concerns. A simmering trade war between China and the United States also emphasises other concerns related to Chinese manufacturing. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Should "Made in China" be seen as a negative in the video surveillance marketplace? Why or why not?

By definition, an edge device is an entry point to a network. In the physical security industry, edge devices are the cameras, sensors, access controllers, readers and other equipment that provide information to the IP networks that drive today’s systems. In the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing refers to an increasing role of edge devices to process data where it is created instead of sending it across a network to a data center or the cloud. In our market, edge computing takes the form of smarter video cameras and other devices that store and/or process data locally. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new “on the edge” of security and video surveillance systems? 

The security marketplace is talking about a lot of different subjects. Our website’s Expert Panel Roundtable discussions in 2018 reflected some of the “hot topics” in the industry.  The very most-clicked-on Expert Panel Roundtable discussion in 2018 was about privacy issues and GDPR’s impact on physical security systems. Other hot topics that made the Top-10 list of roundtable discussions included obstacles to adoption of mobile credentials, what’s new “on the edge,” and the value of physical security data. Here is a listing of the Top 10 Expert Panel Roundtable discussions posted in 2018, along with a “sound bite” from each discussion, and links back to the full articles. Thanks to everyone who contributed to Expert Panel Roundtable in 2018 (including the quotable panelists named and linked below). 1. How do privacy issues and GDPR impact physical security systems? "GDPR specifically restricts the capture and use of EU residents’ personal data and is in direct conflict with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) platforms to track individual activities. The challenge for manufacturers will be to design solutions capable of capturing valuable information for security or business intelligence purposes while simultaneously anonymising retained data.” - Peter Strom, March Networks 2. What are the security challenges of the hospitality market? "The primary challenge the hospitality industry faces is the fine balance between the delivery of exceptional customer service and maintaining a safe and secure environment. The industry sees a range of threats, including theft, terrorism and natural disasters, and more modern risks, such as those related to cybersecurity, liability and compliance." - Jumbi Edulbehram, Oncam 3. Where is it inappropriate to install video cameras? "The most obvious examples would be in bathrooms or bedrooms, but the more interesting cases are those that are not so obvious – such as religious institutions like a church or a mosque. An increase in the boldness of would-be thieves has led to a recent rise in surveillance outside of houses of worship." - Stuart Rawling, Pelco by Schneider Electric 4. What technology will impact security most in the rest of 2018? "The hottest trend we are currently seeing in 2018 is the continued adoption of intelligent devices and automation into the security framework. We have embraced a model where our software and hardware components continually get smarter and easier for security and IT teams to manage and deploy." - Stuart Tucker, AMAG Technology 5. What are the obstacles to adoption of mobile credentials for access control? "Mobile credentials have been slow to take off because legacy readers traditionally did not have Bluetooth or NFC capacity. However, upgrade kits will soon be available from some access control vendors, and customers will be able to easily upgrade their readers." - Derek Arcuri, Genetec 6. What’s new “on the edge” of security and video surveillance systems? "As more powerful in-camera chipsets are developed, edge devices are capable of even more powerful analytics that can inform operators in real-time of events requiring attention. Part of this significant evolution is from a form of artificial intelligence (AI) called deep learning." - Paul Kong, Hanwha Techwin America 7. Are integrators and end users overwhelmed by too many choices? "Being proactive in tracking new developments and networking with like-minded professionals are critical. Find out what your colleagues are using or testing, and get their feedback on what is working well, especially if their organisation is similar to yours. Join local groups, attend industry conferences, and connect on social media to compare notes on emerging technologies." - Brandon Reich, Pivot3 8. What role does social media play in promoting security? "Social media can help us reduce false police dispatches by drawing in a personal circle of people that can validate an alarm, whether it be a neighbour looking out their window to see what’s going on, or a family member that knows your travel plans and is taking care of your house." - Wayne Jared, 3xLOGIC 9. How should your security company measure total cost of ownership (TCO)? “When looking at TCO you need to consider the obvious initial capital cost – compared to alternatives – and also the operational costs across the lifespan of the systems, across one, three and five years. On top of this, though, security can add additional value through integration.” - John Davies, TDSi 10. What is the value of physical security data? "While active protection is the primary job of a security system, the data generated by today’s networked solutions can provide a wealth of intelligence to help organisations optimise both their security strategies and their business operations.” - Mark Perkins, Boon Edam

At GSX 2018 in booth #2341, Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, will unveil the new Wisenet TNV-7010RC corner mount camera. Focussed on the unique needs of correctional facilities and detention centres, the IP-based camera features a corner mount design that provides broad room coverage. IR (infrared) is emitted at a higher wavelength than traditional ‘red glowing’ IR emitters, making it invisible to the human eye so as not to disturb inmates at night. The Wisenet TNV-7010RC camera features a 3MP sensor that captures video at up to 30 fps so details are preserved. Wisenet WDR supplies 120 dB of wide dynamic range so detail can be discerned in both brightly lit and shaded areas of a room. Built-in suite of Wisenet video and analytics The TNV-7010RC housing is vandal resistant with an IK10+ rating and also includes shock detection to alert operators if the camera is subject to abuse The TNV-7010RC housing is vandal resistant with an IK10+ rating and also includes shock detection to alert operators if the camera is subject to abuse. Ingress protection is rated at IP66 and IP6K9K. In addition to shock detection, a built-in suite of Wisenet video and analytics is also included featuring Tampering, Loitering, Directional Detection, Defocus Detection, Fog Detection, Virtual Line, Enter/Exit, Appear / Disappear, Audio Detection, Face Detection, Motion Detection, and Sound Classification. “For the TNV-70190RC we choose a 940nm IR emitter that illuminates to 32.8 feet. This wavelength can’t be seen by humans unlike the 850nm emitter utilised by most cameras which results in the traditional red glow,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin. “We’ve received feedback from the corrections market that this provides a much better atmosphere in cases of 24/7 surveillance.”  Additional features particularly applicable for in-cell use include a built-in microphone and audio line out for two-way communication. Multiple privacy-masking zones can also be configured.

At GSX 2018 in booth #2341, Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, will unveil the new Wisenet X Plus camera line. With a focus on modular design, the X Plus series is one of the fastest cameras to install, service, and upgrade saving installers time and money. X Plus cameras also feature in-camera audio messaging playback, extended temperature handling, removable colour skins, and PTRZ (pan, tile, rotate, zoom) for ultimate flexibility. “The X Plus series combines the best of Hanwha Techwin X series technology with the convenience of complete modular design,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin. “X Plus series cameras utilise magnets to lock sensor modules into the housing for instant configuration. Electricians can run conduit with a single PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection to the housing or backplate, without the camera module, allowing security professionals to snap the camera into place after the job site is clean in just minutes.”  Wider area coverage with 85 degree tilt angles New features enable pre-recorded audio messages to be triggered by in-camera analytics, which are played out of the camera’s audio out connection Camera modules are available with options such as PTRZ, IR, and a heater. Housing choices include indoor, outdoor, and a new compact plenum-rated flush mount. Removable skin covers available in white, black, and ivory allow easy changing of colours to blend in the décor of the room. Custom painting is also made easy since the skin easily separates from the camera. New features enable pre-recorded audio messages to be triggered by in-camera analytics. These messages are played out of the camera’s audio out connection. The audio files are stored locally on the camera’s SD card. Additional highlighted features: Increased operating temperatures from -58 degree to 140 degree F (-50 degree to 60 degree C) Tilt angles increased to 85 degrees for wider coverage with low ceilings PTRZ enables view changes remotely simplifying installation and additional adjustments New gyro-sensors provide shock detection

At GSX 2018 in booth #2341, Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analog video surveillance solutions, will unveil two new cameras in its P series line. The Wisenet PNM-9000VQ (4-head) multi-directional camera and the PNM-9320VQP (4-head) multi-directional plus 32x optical zoom PTZ camera support configurable fixed-focus lens/CMOS sensor modules that allow the installer to choose the resolution and the focal length for each head. Full suite of video analytics Ideally suited for city surveillance, stadiums, and airports, the new cameras allow for individual on-screen displays and a full suite of video analytics including loitering, directional detection, fog detection, tampering, motion detection, and objects entering or exiting an area. Hallway view aspect ratios are also supported for the monitoring of vertical shaped areas. The PNM-9320VQP and PNM-9000VQ feature a configurable four head multi-sensor array that can accept a choice of 2MP modules with optional 2.8, 3.6, 6 or 12mm lenses or 5MP modules with optional 3.7, 4.6 and 7mm lenses in any combination to suit the unique requirements of any job. Additionally, the PNM-9320VPQ has a 2MP HD (4.44-142.6mm) PTZ sensor capable of 32x optical zoom to provide additional clarity in any direction. Multi-streaming performance “Never before has so much power and flexibility been available in a multi-directional camera,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin. “With high frame-rates (60/30fps) per sensor, true 150dB WDR (Wide Dynamic Range), H.265 WiseStream II compression technology and a powerful suite of analytics built in, the cameras are unique in their capabilities. Our latest cameras are re-defining the multi-sensor market once again.” Utilising a single IP address over one cat5 cable requires only one VMS license further reducing the cost to install, service, and support. Powerful multi-streaming performance adds further flexibility to route streams to multiple destinations at different resolutions.

In the physical security space, video analytics have historically over-promised and under-delivered, often leaving end users sceptical about their capabilities. However, increased integration with security solutions and other business systems, as well as developments in deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI), have given video analytics a significant boost in recent years. Here, we take a look at the key trends putting video analytics in the spotlight, and how this opens up new opportunities for increased security and business intelligence. Deep learning and AI will enhance video analytics capabilities At the start of 2018, our security industry experts commented on how deep learning technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) would extend to the video surveillance industry, allowing security professionals to gain very specific insights into human behaviour. Our experts predicted that this would permit organisations to reduce risk, enable efficiencies, reduce costs, ensure compliance and provide faster access to stored video. With AI-enables video systems, video analytics are set to perform more complex applications at a higher level of accuracy. Image processing developments allow intelligent analytics  According to Ambarella’s Chris Day, advancing chip technology combined with the neural network approach to computer vision is game changing for video analytics. Since the problem of higher resolution has already been solved, the key differentior for video surveillance systems will be the ability to add computer vision in parallel with image processing and high-resolution encoding – ideally in a chip that is low-power. Integration with security systems increases video analytics value Video systems produce an immense amount of data that is often wasted, says Bosch Security Systems’ Sean Murphy. When video analytics alerts are integrated with other security systems, video events can trigger responses from other parts of the security solution. For example, cameras with video analytics can initiate intrusion detection system events initiate intrusion detection system events, prompting the panel to take action by alerting the central station or sending video to security personnel.   Video analytics add value with actionable business intelligence Adding network video to the current generation of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provides actional value beyond situational intelligence for security purposes. With increasingly intelligent sensors, interactions between business systems are becoming more sophisticated, providing a value greater than the sum of the parts. Organisations can use smart applications to reduce energy consumption, allocate workspace, and reduce operating costs. In a retail environment, analytics are now capable of assessing a scene for occupancy and crowd control, even generating reports of trends over time. Video analytics detect abnormalities to predict incidents Camera-based video analytics can go beyond assessing a current scene to predicting potential risks before they occur, explains Pelco’s Jonathan Lewitt. Based on predetermined factors or analysis of prior events, systems can collect all available information to determine the level of severity of a situation and whether an action needs to be taken. At the same time, systems can correlate data from video and other sources to help analyse similar occurrences in the future. Video analytics increasingly supplemented with audio analytics Audio analytics are often overlooked, notes Hanwha Techwin’s Paul Kong, perhaps due to differing privacy laws from video surveillance. However, audio analytics processed in a camera can help provide a secondary layer of verification for events, as well as identifying gunshots, screams, or other sounds indicating an incident is taking place. This makes audio analytics ideal for dealing with active shooter events at schools and campuses. As Louroe Electronics’ Richard Brent explains, audio analytics software can detect rising levels of human aggression, as well as recognising firearm discharge. This can trigger alerts to ensure incidents are dealt with swiftly.

Arteco, a global provider of event-driven intelligent video management solutions, announced that it has expanded its long-standing partnership with Hanwha Techwin to enable comprehensive management of the entire range of Wisenet devices and embedded analytics applications within Arteco NEXT Video Event Management Software (VEMS). Through this integration, Hanwha Techwin’s Wisenet devices are now fully supported in terms of video management, events and features including 4K Ultra HD video streaming and recording, and video analytics applications. The integration was completed with Arteco Open Connector, which consolidates events from third-party devices and presents them within the Arteco VEMS interface. Users of both technologies gain access to a customisable platform that enables them to design security systems with a variety of features and intelligence, granting significant benefits in terms of situational awareness and security while facilitating and reducing the operator’s tasks. The Wisenet III and Wisenet X camera series are also fully supported by Arteco Analytics Extreme Strengthening security measures “With Arteco’s support of our comprehensive suite of analytic offerings, customers can get access to more powerful sets of data to ensure strengthened security measures,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin America. “This partnership allows customers to meet a wide variety of customer and market requirements, including safe cities, critical infrastructure, education, logistics and retail.” The Wisenet III and Wisenet X camera series are also fully supported by Arteco Analytics Extreme. “Our long-term partnership strengthens our joint commitment to delivering advanced analytic functionality and expanding intelligent offerings to our customers across the globe,” said Giampaolo Sabbatani, CEO, Arteco.

Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analog video surveillance solutions, will debut a new line of mobile cameras at ISC West 2018 in booth #14079. The new cameras are part of the Wisenet X series and are built to withstand the vibrations, temperature shifts and harsh, wet environments encountered in mobile applications such as buses and trains. All of the new mobile models utilise the powerful Wisenet 5 chipset featuring high frame-rates, day & night (ICR) and advanced WDR (150dB) All of the new mobile models utilise the powerful Wisenet 5 chipset featuring high frame-rates, day & night (ICR), advanced WDR (150dB), digital image stabilisation, and H.265/H.264/MJPEG multiple streaming codecs. The full suite of powerful Wisenet video analytics featuring tampering detection, loitering, directional detection, defocus detection, fog detection, virtual line, enter/exit, (dis)appear, audio detection, face detection, people counting, heat maps, and sound classification is included. X series mobile cameras The 2.8mm XNV-6013M is vandal-resistant with an IK10 rating and can withstand temperatures from -40 to +140 degrees Fahrenheit Intended for the harshest mobile environment, the 2 Megapixel 60fps XNV-6013M is rated at IP6k9K to withstand high-temperature steam power washing. It also features a built-in heater to prevent frost and fogging within the housing. The 2.8mm XNV-6013M is vandal-resistant with an IK10 rating and can withstand temperatures from -40 to +140 degrees Fahrenheit. The 2M 60fps XNV-6012/M flat cameras feature 135-degree viewing angles and supports RJ-45 or M12 connectors. The 2M 60fps XNV-6022R/M adds IR illumination to 15m/49ft. “Our new X series mobile cameras are built to withstand harsh, mobile environments where water and dirt can penetrate due to high-pressure washing and outdoor movement while bringing the best performance and analytics available to the mobile market,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin America.” Top features:  XNV-6012 – 2M Mobile Vandal-Resistant Network Camera 2.4mm fixed lens - wide 135-degree field of view IP66, IK10, NAMA4X-rated Built-in Microphone RJ-45 connector XNV-6012M – 2M Mobile Vandal-Resistant Network Camera 2.4mm fixed lens - wide 135-degree field of view IP66, IK10, NAMA4X rated Built-in Microphone M12 Connector  XNV-6013M – 2M Mobile Vandal-Resistant Network Camera 2.8mm fixed lens – 107-degree field of view Built-in heater prevents frost accumulation and fogging Built-in microphone IP67, IP6K9K, IK10, NAMA4X rated M12 Connector  XNV-6022R - 2M Mobile Vandal-Resistant Network IR Flat Camera 3.6mm fixed lens – 95-degree angle of view IR Distance 15m IP66, IK10, NAMA4X rated RJ-45 Connector XNV-6022RM - 2M Mobile Vandal-Resistant Network IR Flat Camera 3.6mm fixed lens – 95-degree angle of view IR Distance 15m IP66, IK10, NAMA4X rated M12 Connector The new mobile cameras will be available from all Hanwha Techwin authorised resellers in Q2 2018.

At ISC West 2018, in booth #14079, Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analog video surveillance solutions, is scheduled to announce the release of four new Wisenet stainless steel cameras. Three vandal-resistant dome cameras and a PTZ dome camera will be on display. Part of the Wisenet X series, all of the new stainless models utilize the powerful Wisenet 5 chipset featuring high frame-rates, day & night (ICR), advanced WDR (150dB), H.265/H.264/MJPEG multiple streaming codecs, and a full suite of powerful video analytics. “There has been high demand for stainless versions of these popular camera models,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin America. “Our cameras are built for harsh environments such as marine locations or areas where aggressive chemical cleaners are used. We are excited to bring our powerful and unique X series features to cameras built for demanding environments such as food, medical, and sterile clean rooms where corrosion and rust cannot be tolerated.” Full video analytics support All of the new stainless models support a full suite of video analytics including loitering, directional detection, fog detection, tampering, motion detection handover, and objects entering or exiting an area. Audio analytics are included for sound classification and notification. Nylon bubbles are also employed in front of the lens to further resist deterioration. XNV-6080RS network IR stainless PTZ camera 2 Megapixel (1920 x 1080) max resolution 2.8 ~ 12mm (4.3x) motorized varifocal lens 60fps at all resolutions (H.265/264) XNV-8080RS network IR stainless dome camera 5 Megapixel (2560 x 1920) max resolution 3.9 ~ 9.4mm (2.4x) motorized varifocal lens 30fps at all resolutions (H.265/264) XNV-6120RS network IR stainless dome camera 2 Megapixel (1920 x 1080) max resolution 5.2 ~ 62.4mm (12x) optical zoom lens 60fps at all resolutions (H.265/264) XNV-6320HS network PTZ Camera 2 Megapixel (1920 x 1080) max resolution 4.44 ~ 142mm 32x optical zoom lens 60fps at all resolutions (H.265/264)

At ISC West 2018, in booth #14079, Hanwha Techwin America, supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, will announce two new Wisenet multi-sensor cameras. The Wisenet PNM-7000VD (2-head) and PNM-9000VQ (4-head) combine powerful performance in a small form factor at an affordable price. For maximum adaptability, configurable fixed-focus lens/CMOS sensor modules are available in multiple fields of view which can be easily installed onsite. With high frame-rates (60/30fps), true WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) and a powerful suite of analytics built in, the cameras bring a new level of quality and value to the multi-directional camera market. Utilising a single IP address over one cat5 cable requires only one VMS license further reducing the cost to install, service, and support. “Our latest multi-directional cameras set a new bar for performance,” said Paul Kong, Technical Director, Hanwha Techwin America. “The modular lens design, together with advanced Wisenet P series features like WDR, built-in analytics, and high frame-rates, is significant for the industry.” A solution for hospitals, schools, and retail, both cameras allow for individual on-screen displays and a full suite of video analytics including loitering, directional detection, fog detection, tampering, motion detection, and objects entering or exiting an area. Hallway view aspect ratios are also supported for monitoring of vertical shaped areas.