Roger Lawrence

2015 has been a mixed year. There’s been aggressive competition in the security industry and difficult market conditions in some parts of Europe. The market has slowed down, but at the same time there is still a huge demand for new solutions coming into the market. As a manufacturer, we continue to see strong demand for innovative products. Overall, the industry has matured this year. The full HD market is established now, and more security professionals are now looking beyond that. 4K and high resolution technology is developing, and those in the industry are starting to imagine and to realise what they can do with these solutions.  4K growth in security marketplace Analogue is still dominant in parts of the market with certain parts still reluctant to make the move to HD and IP. However, 2016 will see a new generation of high performance IP camera (4K) become established in the market, which will encourage security buyers thinking about transitioning, with reduced camera count and better workflow offering savings on installation and running costs, as well as offering new solutions to the high-end market. 4K will grow significantly in the marketplace, with more users recognising that they can achieve the same sensitivity with full HD solutions. We’ve been surprised by enthusiasm for 4K this year. We’ve seen huge demand for the SNC-VM772R, our first 4K camera, and we can now start talking about the next generation of 4K in 2016. Users have often thought that high resolution means low sensitivity, but we’ve shown how that’s not the case. In fact, analogue cameras from around five years ago used more bandwidth than 4K cameras do today. Surveillance technology has matured in such a way that there is great value for money in today’s market. It’s a tough time to be in the security market because of the economic conditions and stiff competition. However, here at Sony, we’ve focused on developing unique products to ensure we retain a strong position in the market. See the full coverage of 2015/2016 Review and Forecast articles here

Sony recently announced the all-new UMC-S3C, the first video camera that offers the highest sensitivity with 4K video recording simultaneously, allowing users to capture details even in challenging low-light conditions, the camera also features tremendous flexibility and long duration video recording, alongside 12 megapixel colour still image capture. This announcement follows the recent launch of the 4K network camera, model SNC-VB770. Expansion of 4K camera line “At Sony, we focus on enhancing high resolution and high sensitivity,” said Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Professional Solutions Europe. “With this approach, we have been expanding our current 4K product line-up and are confident that we can tap into new markets with the all-new UMC-S3C. The latest video camera is also a testament of Sony’s relentless efforts to provide our clients with solutions that meet their business requirements.”  Capable of achieving both sensitivity and resolution with colour video recording in 4K, the UMC-S3C provides the highest sensitivity in its class, with illuminance as under 0.004lx, ISO 4096001. This is made possible by incorporating Sony’s advanced technologies from both its consumer and professional space - the full-frame 35mm Exmor sensor and image processing engine. Sony’s UMC-S3C uses a 35mm full-frame sensor to deliver high sensitivity with high light condensing efficiency, and an image processing engine which enhances noise reduction. With the inclusion of compatible E-mount lenses that are optimised to maximise the performance of the 35mm full-frame 12MP sensor, resolution is kept high across the entire image area from the centre to the lens periphery. Lightweight and compact security camera The camera delivers clear images with less noise thanks to the 35mm full-frame sensor, which captures significantly more light with lower noise than conventional camera sensors, combined with the use of area-specific noise reduction which is able to selectively apply noise reduction to areas based on image content. Image quality is further enhanced through detail reproduction technology, allowing clear and sharp video recording in near pitch-black environments beyond the capabilities of the human eye. This helps to deliver optimised images in various scenes and ensures a more natural sense of dimension. The high sensitivity also allows higher shutter speeds to be used even in low light, allowing users to capture moving objects clearly, retaining detail of text and faces etc. Weighing approximately 400g, the lightweight UMC-S3C is currently the most compact camera among Sony’s line-up in the full-frame camera market. With mounting points on the camera body to enhance mobility, the stand-alone camera allows users to attach it onto moving objects, such as vehicles, with ease. In addition, users can control the camera via multi terminal2, remote controller or compatible software. Suitable applications for Sony UMC-S3C The UMC-S3C is suitable for a variety of applications, including disaster responses; wildlife monitoring; mapping or surveying of landscape; surveillance; inspections and investigations; live camera; dashboard/professional point-of-view (‘POV’) cameras, among others. Supporting multi camera systems, the UMC-S3C can fit into any existing infrastructure and also allows various playback functions with the use of a PC as well as Live View via HDMI. Long duration video recording is also possible as the stand-alone camera is equipped with a memory card slot on the camera body, instead of network cabling feature. For example, with a 64GB memory card, users can record up to 125 minutes of 4K footage with standard quality (30 fps/60 Mbps). Furthermore, with 4K resolution, where image resolution is four times higher than full HD, users can cover larger areas with outstanding image quality. The camera also accommodates the XAVC S format, enabling high quality recording with 100Mbps high bit rate3. This is a huge advantage to users in challenging environments where cabling or space is a huge limitation.

Sony’s new 4K network camera, model SNC-VB770, offers the highest sensitivity in its class - under 0.004lx, ISO 409600. The new model combines ultra-high sensitivity with 4K resolution and advanced networking capabilities to give video professionals more flexibility to capture details even in extreme low-light conditions. High resolution and sensitivity The new SNC-VB770 camera achieves high resolution and sensitivity, in addition to low noise due to its image processing and full-frame 35mm Exmor sensor – all developed by Sony. The sensor captures significantly more light with low noise than conventional camera sensors to realise drastic improvements in sensitivity. The result is low light performance in nearly pitch-black environments beyond the capabilities of human eyes. The SNC-VB770’s supports Sony’s high performance E-mount lens series which includes a variety of lens options from wide angle to telephoto, allowing easy integration into a range of video capture applications, including surveillance such as city, transportation, police, port and utility. “The SNC-VB770 builds on Sony’s image sensor strengths and applies this expertise to new applications in the commercial video capture realm,” said Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Professional Europe. “Low-light conditions don’t only occur at night. They exist 24/7 in museums, zoos and any number of municipal and commercial areas. This new camera and our expanding line of 4K network models give users more options for meeting their demanding capture requirements.” 4K resolution and area-specific noise reduction With the exceptional detail provided by 4K technology (4 times the detail of full HD) security professionals, for example, can expand their wide area surveillance and still capture, magnify and examine the smallest parts of a scene like a face or a car license plate number – all with a single camera. The new camera uses area-specific noise reduction to selectively divide images into areas based on patterns (such as edges, textures and evenly coloured areas like blue skies) to efficiently reduce noise. In addition, detail reproduction technology further enhances image quality. E-mount lenses are optimised to maximise the performance of the 35 mm full-frame sensor, keeping resolution high across the entire image area from the centre to the lens periphery. Intelligent Cropping feature The camera’s Intelligent Cropping feature lets users capture a full view while cropping images in its native 4K resolution from multiple images at the same time, with either 3 or 5 simultaneous video streams. Intelligent Cropping has two modes, static and dynamic. Users can select “static” to see multiple specific areas in one scene. They can capture an overview image and the details of the cropped areas at the same time. “Dynamic” mode uses the intelligent motion to detect, crop and track moving objects automatically. Intelligent Scene Capture automatically adjusts and adapts picture quality (brightness and colour) depending on time, weather and lighting conditions. The camera also allows users to customise picture parameter presets for the best settings. Multiple picture configurations can be saved and switched either manually (using the Picture Profile mode) or according to schedule (Picture Profile Scheduler) to ensure the best picture quality day or night.

Sony will demonstrate how SNC-VM772R 4K camera meets challenges currently associated with high mega-pixel technology At IFSEC 2015, Sony will be showcasing its 4K SNC-VM772R video security camera for the first time publicly in Europe as it demonstrates its continued innovation in the security sector. It will also be offering the industry an education in 4K technology, exploring how the latest imaging solutions can be integrated into live security environments to bring the best of Ultra-high definition (Ultra HD) to video surveillance, dispelling myths and concerns about the adoption of 4K. Going beyond product, Sony will also show its commitment to enhanced usability and flexibility with its SNC toolbox Mobile app. As an innovative installation tool, it displays camera image via Wi-Fi on a smartphone to allow the installer to easily adjust field of view and focus. This app saves time and integration costs and streamlines the user’s experience. The company will also be presenting its versatile IP camera line-up, including the latest addition to the range, the SNC-XM631. SNC-VM772R 4K camera Sony will be using the show as a platform to showcase its recently launched SNC-VM772R 4K camera that was recently selected as one of the 5 Most Innovative Surveillance Cameras in 2015 by IFSEC Global and that is part of the company´s commitment to offer industry leading 4K solutions and deliver a new video security standard. Combining the enhanced resolution of 4K with low-light sensitivity supported by its 1.0 type Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, and intelligent scene capture, the new model enables security professionals to expand their surveillance area to capture, magnify and examine the small details of any scene. “At IFSEC 2015, we are showing our most advanced video security solution to date and using the event to show the industry how committed we are to innovation” said Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Professional Europe. “4K in the video security market is now a reality and we’re seizing the opportunity to demonstrate the end-user benefits this technology can bring”. An education in 4K "4K in the video security market is now a reality and we’re seizing the opportunity to demonstrate the end-user benefits this technology can bring" Sony will focus on educating the security industry, by demonstrating how the new SNC-VM772R 4K camera meets the challenges currently associated with high mega-pixel technology, particularly bandwidth, low-light sensitivity and resolution. As part of this, the company will demonstrate innovative features like Intelligent Cropping that has been specifically designed to offer new levels of flexibility in 4K applications. This unique feature offers dynamic cropping, based on motion detection, or static cropping, configured by the user meaning users can stream cropped areas at native 4K resolution whilst also streaming a scale Full HD image. This can result in 50 per cent less bandwidth consumption, a common challenge within the industry at present. Sixth Generation of video security cameras The capabilities of Sony’s Sixth Generation (G6) cameras – which are fast becoming a benchmark standard for the industry – will also be showcased at this year’s IFSEC. With models which offer Full HD picture quality, performance and versatility, Sony will show visitors to its stand how the models are ideal for even the most challenging security scenarios. The latest addition to the X-Series camera range, SNC-XM631, will be on show for users to see Sony’s dynamic range technology View-DR in action. Sony will be exhibiting its latest range of security solutions at IFSEC on Stand E250 at the ExCel Centre, London (16-18 June, 2015).

Sony’s SNC-VB632D employs the newly adopted Dual Light system with IR illuminator and white LED Sony has announced the latest edition to its outdoor camera range with the launch of the SNC-VB632D Full HD infrared bullet camera. The SNC-VB632D employs the newly adopted Dual Light system with infrared (IR) illuminator and white LED, working as an effective deterrent and allowing for clear visibility under dark conditions in either black and white or colour. The SNC-VB632D supports high-performance illumination during the night-time through the IR illuminator, up to a wide range of 30 metres in black and white, with a minimum illumination of 0 lux (0.1 lux for colour) at 50 IRE. When an object approaches, the integrated video motion detection activates the white LED automatically, enabling colour mode, illuminating objects up to 5 metres away for clear identification in full colour. “With the Dual Light system, the SNC-VB632D is the ideal all-in-one camera for transportation and city surveillance in complex environments,” Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Europe. “The white LED is a visual deterrent contributing to crime prevention around where there is less traffic at night, while the clear visibility in black and white and colour, aids identification and post-incident analysis. It can also reduce total cost of ownership by providing sensor light within the camera.” The IP camera also features IPELA ENGINE™ EX, which combines Sony’s unique signal processing and video analytics technologies resulting in features such as: View-DR technology, enabling a wide dynamic range under high-contrast/backlight conditions up to 90dB in Full HD Enhanced DEPA™ Advanced, providing state of the art video image analytics such as face detection High frame rate of 60fps for a smoother and less blurry viewing experience Image stabilisation to reduce the effects of vibrations on the camera, delivering steady, clear images Sony will showcase the SNC-VB632D alongside its latest range of solutions and 4K video security developments during Security Essen 2014, taking place September 23 – 26, 2014. Visitors to the Sony booth (Hall 2.0 / Stand 413) will have the opportunity to see the customer benefits of Sony’s product range across the retail, city surveillance and casino markets and how they can be integrated into a security environment, in partnership with OWLS AG (Outdoor Wireless Lighting Solutions) and Casino solution supplier Böhm. The SNC-VB632D will be available through Sony’s product distribution channels in October 2014.

I am visiting IFSEC for the first time in several years, and one revelation is how well the event reflects the increasingly global - and diverse - nature of the security market. On the second day of the show, I was struck by the diversity of attendees, apparent in the many languages you hear spoken in the exhibit hall. I also kept coming upon confirmation of the variety of global security companies from around the world who are exhibiting at the event -- another reflection of a thriving worldwide market. Sometimes in the United States, we think of the “European market,” for example, but that designation is an oversimplification. In fact, there isn’t really a European market, but instead many different markets within Europe, each with its own special needs, all of them also sharing some of the same security concerns. Another trend is an increase in security for large venues and for public events, sometimes using temporary deployments of camera systems for crowd flow I chatted with Ivo Drent, Arecont Vision’s vice president, Europe, about some of the trends he sees throughout Europe related to the American company’s megapixel camera product line. For instance, he sees growth in city surveillance applications in France, while Central Europe (Germany and the Benelux countries) are enthusiastically embracing transportation/logistics applications. The transportation vertical is using Arecont’s cameras to achieve benefits beyond “catching the bad guy,” with insurance and tracking capabilities also contributing to a better business case. Drent sees growth in the transportation vertical expanding to Scandinavia and the United Kingdom, too. Another trend is an increase in security for large venues and for public events, sometimes using temporary deployments of camera systems for crowd flow and management applications as well as security. Arecont’s panoramic-view cameras offer good coverage of large areas. To serve the various European markets, Arecont has a 14-person European team, including local reps in individual countries or areas. The company is also finalizing a fully equipped technology lab (like the “Megalab” in Arecont’s headquarters in Glendale, Calif.), this one in Frankfurt. “We’re working to establish a European identity for an American company,” Drent says. “We are putting local people in the local markets.” Sony’s big message is about quality and the value of the Sony brand, which stands not just for meeting specifications but for being guaranteed to meet them Roger Lawrence, Sony’s project manager, video security, Professional Solutions Europe, also noted the regional differences among various European markets. For example, the United Kingdom is still primarily an analogue market in the process of migrating to IP, while Nordic countries and Eastern Europe demand the latest IP solutions, he says. The Sony stand depicts a “journey” among the supplier’s various vertical markets, including a coffee shop (retail), banking and transportation. Sony’s big message is about quality and the value of the Sony brand, which stands not just for meeting specifications but for being guaranteed to meet them. Sometimes an individual market is a source of innovation. In the case of Sony, innovation highlighted at the show comes from the company’s team in France, which has developed an Android app to help installers fine-tune cameras during installation. The operation typically involves use of an analogue monitor or laptop, which a technician might need to take up a ladder to make the adjustments. The app allows adjustments using a smartphone with no wires or cables -- the installer’s hands are free to work with tools.  From Russia, I met Alexander Baranov, director of marketing for AxxonSoft, who demonstrated their video management system, and it was different than any other user interface I have seen. The system enables the user to access video intuitively from a schematic diagram or outdoor map of a facility, and it also can meld the video information with the schematic information to create almost an immersive experience. The system captures metadata to enable use of video analytics on recorded video for post-analysis of alarms, such as applying motion detection to a specific area. That’s just part of their story, and a huge global map in their booth further emphasized the diverse global market, with pictures of the Russian company’s representatives all over the world, from China to Mexico to sub-Saharan Africa. Avigilon’s press event highlighted broader integration of its browser-based Access Control Manager (ACM) product Another big player made a splash on Day Two. Avigilon’s press event highlighted broader integration of its browser-based Access Control Manager (ACM) product, including the ability to handle alarms in either the access control system or the video management system, or both. A new Professional version of the access control product is a hardened Linux appliance with 16- or 32-door capacity and the full feature set (and at a lower price). Avigilon began in the video sector, and the press event also highlighted the latest in their camera capabilities, such as the Rialto video analytics appliance resulting from the VideoIQ acquisition. Also, Avigilon’s HD Pro camera uses up to 16 megapixels, and the Avigilon system provides what amounts to resolution on demand. A 1 megapixel or so resolution is fine to view the larger image, but if you need to see something up close, you can zoom in, and the Avigilon Control Center software video display leverages the additional resolution to clear up the image almost magically. Everyone was squinting to read the name on a boat passing by outside the meeting room along the ExCel Centre’s waterfront. Nobody could read it, but the words were perfectly clear on the screen. Today I also got a chance to interview Ximen, vice president of Chinese video supplier Uniview, which recently entered the international market. That makes two of the large Chinese suppliers I have spoken with at IFSEC -- I met with Dahua yesterday and will speak with Hikvision tomorrow. A lot to tell about these Chinese manufacturers -- keep watching this space for more. I ended the day speaking with Vivotek, which among other things is highlighting their low-light functionality with a system called SNV -- Supreme Night Visibility. The Taiwanese company uses three types of wide dynamic range (WDR) with their products. They also have a 5-megapixel IR fisheye fixed dome network camera. IFSEC reflects a world of innovation and new technology approaches that will impact our market. The scope of possibilities leaves this IFSEC attendee both overwhelmed and eager to learn more. One day to go, but it has already been well worth the trip.

Sony will demonstrate how the latest 4K technologies could be used in the security industry to drive new levels of image clarity At IFSEC 2014, Sony showcases how current and future technologies can be integrated into a security environment with live technology demonstrations of Sony and partner solutions. It will also be introducing 4K technology and its content collaboration solution, Vision Presenter. The company will also demonstrate its continuing innovation in the video security sector as it announced the latest addition to its X-Series camera range, the SNC-XM631. 4K Imaging Technology Sony will be using IFSEC 2014 as a platform to demonstrate how the latest 4K technologies could be used in the security industry to drive new levels of image clarity. The company will be showcasing a 4K imaging technology prototype to demonstrate how the increased image detail and clarity afforded by 4K could provide new opportunities for demanding security applications, allowing security professionals to monitor large areas in great detail with a single camera. Users would be able to monitor entire scenes, as well dynamically cropping the image to focus on multiple specific areas of interest. “At IFSEC 2014, we are showcasing our most advanced imaging technologies ever, and using the opportunity to obtain feedback from attendees on the latest products and applications” said Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Europe. “4K in the video security market is not yet a reality, but as a company committed to driving innovation, we’re using the opportunity to demonstrate and investigate the potential end-user benefits this technology could bring to market.” "At IFSEC 2014, we are showcasing our most advanced imaging technologies ever, and using the opportunity to obtain feedback from attendees on the latest products and applications" Vision Presenter solution Sony is also illustrating the potential security applications for its recently launched content collaboration solution – Vision Presenter. The solution, which combines visual information from multiple sources into one dynamic display, allows users to easily control and monitor content and bring online data and live video footage together. At IFSEC, it will showcase how the solution could be adopted into control rooms and incident rooms for security, safety and many other applications, and obtain feedback from the market on how such a solution could transform the security arena. New SNC-XM631 camera The SNC-XM631 is the latest addition to Sony’s X-Series camera range - part of the company’s 6th Generation of video security cameras. The new IP network, mini-dome cameras are fully IPELA ENGINE EX capable, allowing the SNC-XM631 to deliver Full HD picture quality in challenging lighting conditions with Sony´s unique wide dynamic range technology View-DR and Image Stabilisation. The camera has a wide viewing angle (113°) for improved installation flexibility, it is vandal resistant with IK10 rating, and has sensor In/Out capability for easy integration. The SNC-XM631 is ideal for a number of interior applications, including those across the education, banking and retail market, where proprietors want maximum, high quality coverage for with minimal camera presence. It complements Sony’s broader range of solutions from the affordable C-Series to the high end W-Series, and is evidence of Sony’s continued investment in developing end-to-end security solutions for vertical applications. The SNC-XM631 will be available through Sony’s product distribution channel in the September, 2014. Sony will demonstrate the customer benefits of its product range across the transport, retail, city surveillance and banking markets Recreating challenging real-life surveillance requirements, Sony will demonstrate the customer benefits of its product range across the transport, retail, city surveillance and banking markets. Designed specifically for vertical markets, Sony will showcase solutions for: Transport – with excellent image coverage under challenging lighting conditions and moving environments, Sony’s X, W, and E-Series are suited to all transportation needs, keeping travellers safe on- board, and traffic flowing smoothly. Sony’s work with Teleste, which will be demoed at the show, illustrates the ease in which its cameras and network technology can be integrated to provide live streaming and the ultimate monitoring solution for bustling train and bus stations. City Surveillance – using the multi award-winning W-Series cameras, Sony’s city surveillance solution showcases a unique solution in partnership with OWLS AG (Outdoor Wireless Lighting Solutions). By combining high quality cameras with a low-energy lamppost, the stable, true-colour images of the OWLS ATHINA CCTV System can help to ensure safety on every street, alleyway or defined area. Retail - from the affordable C-Series, to the 360-degree Hemispheric-view Camera H-Series, providing coverage on a large scale with fewer cameras, Sony’s compact designs, affordable price points and industry leading 3 year Prime Support and NAS based solutions, partnering with Synology, meet the demands of retailers by balancing technological expectations and budget restraints. Banking – the compact design and excellent image quality of H-series and E-series provide complete security coverage inside the bank and rugged models for outdoors. Completing its banking offering, partnering with Milestone, Sony will be displaying a VMS solution with transaction tracking allowing incidents to be quickly retrieved and reviewed Technology Demos – Sony show live demos of their Imaging technologies demonstrating how they deliver excellent image quality under any lighting condition, thanks to View-DR, Low Light Sensitivity, Advanced IR and Dynamic Light response.

Sony has also confirmed a number of new additions to its product portfolio will be showcased at IFSEC 2014 Ahead of IFSEC 2014, Sony has announced it will showcase its full range of video security solutions across transport, retail, banking and city surveillance applications, as well as confirming some new additions to its product portfolio. Emphasising its commitment to redefining image clarity standards for the security industry, Sony will also be exploring the future of video security with a demonstration of 4K technology, a resolution four times higher than Full HD (1080p). The past year has seen Sony strengthen its focus on making high quality video security available for every application regardless of budget, including the launch of its affordable C-Series cameras, ideal for the SMB market; its new X-Series compact mini-dome cameras suited to the transport sector and its robust outdoor offering, the E-Series bullet cameras. This continued expansion into vertical markets will accelerate with new developments in 2014 being unveiled at IFSEC, complementing Sony’s current line-up of solutions. Sony’s product range will be showcased in key vertical markets, transport, retail, city surveillance and banking. Recreating challenging real-life surveillance requirements, Sony will demonstrate first-hand the customer benefits of technologies including View-DR (Sony’s market leading Wide Dynamic Range technology), Advanced IR (combating over exposed, ghostly images if the IR light is too close to the object under surveillance) and image stabilisation. "IFSEC is always a great chance for us to engage with our video security community customers and demonstrate how Sony is leading the way for image quality across the industry" Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Europe, commented: “As IFSEC makes its debut in London this year, we’re excited to return to the show stronger than ever before. IFSEC is always a great chance for us to engage with our video security community customers and demonstrate how Sony is leading the way for image quality across the industry.” Designed specifically for vertical markets, Sony will showcase solutions for: Transport – with excellent image coverage under challenging lighting conditions and moving environments, Sony’s X, V, and E-Series are suited to all transportation needs, keeping travellers safe on- board, and traffic flowing smoothly. City Surveillance – using the rugged, multi award-winning W-Series outdoor cameras, Sony’s city surveillance solution showcases a unique solution in partnership with OWLS AG. By combining high quality cameras with a low-energy lamppost, the stable, true-colour images of the OWLS ATHINA CCTV System can help to ensure safety on every street, alleyway or defined area.   Retail - from the affordable C-Series, to the H-Series, providing coverage on a large scale with fewer cameras, Sony’s compact designs, affordable price points and industry leading 3 year Prime Support meet the demands of retailers by balancing technological expectations and budget restraints. Banking – the E and H-Series cameras deliver excellent image quality under any lighting condition, thanks to View-DR, Adaptive IR and Low Light Sensitivity, completing Sony’s end-to-end offering for the banking market. Sony is the clear leader in 4K Ultra HD, having pioneered 4K workflow solutions for the professional video & film market and developing leading consumer solutions, recently announcing it will produce three full matches of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ in 4K. The company is therefore in a prime position to use IFSEC 2014 as a platform for showcasing 4K imaging technology to explore how 4K technology will fit into the video security marketplace and provide more detail, better clarity and smarter solutions than has previously been possible. Sony will be exhibiting at IFSEC on Stand G600, at the ExCeL Centre.

Sony to showcase across transport, retail, city surveillance and banking sectors Ahead of IFSEC 2014, Sony has announced it will showcase its full range of video security solutions across transport, retail, banking and city surveillance applications, as well as confirming some new additions to its product portfolio. Emphasising its commitment to redefining image clarity standards for the security industry, Sony will also be exploring the future of video security with a demonstration of 4K technology, a resolution four times higher than Full HD (1080p). The past year has seen Sony strengthen its focus on making high quality video security available for every application regardless of budget, including the launch of its affordable C-Series cameras, ideal for the SMB market; its new X-Series compact mini-dome cameras suited to the transport sector and its robust outdoor offering, the E-Series bullet cameras. This continued expansion into vertical markets will accelerate with new developments in 2014 being unveiled at IFSEC, complementing Sony’s current line-up of solutions. Sony’s product range will be showcased in key vertical markets, transport, retail, city surveillance and banking. Recreating challenging real-life surveillance requirements, Sony will demonstrate first-hand the customer benefits of technologies including View-DR (Sony’s market leading Wide Dynamic Range technology), Advanced IR (combating over exposed, ghostly images if the IR light is too close to the object under surveillance) and image stabilisation. Roger Lawrence, Video Security Product Manager at Sony Europe, commented: “As IFSEC makes its debut in London this year, we’re excited to return to the show stronger than ever before. IFSEC is always a great chance for us to engage with our video security community customers and demonstrate how Sony is leading the way for image quality across the industry.” Designed specifically for vertical markets, Sony will showcase solutions for: Transport – with excellent image coverage under challenging lighting conditions and moving environments, Sony’s X, V, and E-Series are suited to all transportation needs, keeping travellers safe on- board, and traffic flowing smoothly. City Surveillance – using the rugged, multi award-winning W-Series outdoor cameras, Sony’s city surveillance solution showcases a unique solution in partnership with OWLS AG. By combining high quality cameras with a low-energy lamppost, the stable, true-colour images of the OWLS ATHINA CCTV System can help to ensure safety on every street, alleyway or defined area.   Retail - from the affordable C-Series, to the H-Series, providing coverage on a large scale with fewer cameras, Sony’s compact designs, affordable price points and industry leading 3 year Prime Support meet the demands of retailers by balancing technological expectations and budget restraints. Banking – the E and H-Series cameras deliver excellent image quality under any lighting condition, thanks to View-DR, Adaptive IR and Low Light Sensitivity, completing Sony’s end-to-end offering for the banking market.  Sony is the clear leader in 4K Ultra HD, having pioneered 4K workflow solutions for the professional video & film market and developing leading consumer solutions, recently announcing it will produce three full matches of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ in 4K. The company is therefore in a prime position to use IFSEC 2014 as a platform for showcasing 4K imaging technology to explore how 4K technology will fit into the video security marketplace and provide more detail, better clarity and smarter solutions than has previously been possible.   Sony will be exhibiting at IFSEC on Stand G600, at the ExCeL Centre.