Day/Night surveillance

Cambridge Pixel, a developer of radar display, tracking, and recording sub-systems, announces expanded capabilities for its ASD Air Defence software product family with the support of threat evaluation and weapons assignment (TEWA) and asset management functions. The new capabilities expand the scope of the existing ASD product family to include real-time evaluation of threats and the ability to optimally allocate available resources. A distributed database permits information to be published and shared across multiple sites, regionally or nationally, allowing the threat assessment module to read up-to-date status information on the availability and status of assets. Cambridge Pixel ASD solution The ASD product family includes the ASD-100, a PC-based air surveillance display application that provides an integrated display picture for primary radar, IFF, and ADS-B target information. The ASD-100 allows alarm areas and alarm conditions to be defined to enable early detection of dangers or events of interest, and flight plans may be viewed for specific targets. ASD solution is compatible with older radar models as well as the latest generation of network-based radar interfaces Related modules include IFF plot extraction, primary and IFF target tracking, system monitoring, alarm management, and data recording. The software is provided as modular components that can be configured for different scales of air defence applications from local to country-wide scope. With the ability to interface to a wide range of radar types, the Cambridge Pixel ASD solution is compatible with older radar models as well as the latest generation of network-based radar interfaces. Cost-effective solutions David Johnson, a CEO, Cambridge Pixel, said, "The new TEWA capability expands the scope of Cambridge Pixel's air defence product family. The modular product range allows us to offer cost-effective solutions to upgrade existing installations using legacy radars where appropriate to minimise costs." Cambridge Pixel's radar technology is used in naval, air traffic control, vessel traffic, commercial shipping, security, surveillance, and airborne radar applications. Its systems have been implemented in mission-critical applications with companies such as BAE Systems, Frontier Electronic Systems, Blighter Surveillance Systems, Exelis, Hanwha Systems, Kelvin Hughes, Lockheed Martin, Navtech Radar, Raytheon, Saab Sensis, Royal Thai Air Force, Sofresud, and Hensoldt.

The modern meaning of surveillance has reshaped itself. It is more than just capturing or recording the footage or monitoring the premises continuously. Enterprises expect video surveillance devices to assist them in decision-making. Sufficing the same need, Matrix has developed their range of surveillance devices for modern enterprises that encompass smart features to help enterprises mitigate the threats in real-time. Matrix offers their Professional Series Bullet IP cameras, a compact yet powerful range of surveillance devices to take surveillance strategy to the next level. The technology behind these surveillance devices begins with the back-illuminated sensor utilised to capture the details even in lighting as low as 0.01Lux. Each Matrix camera comprises a Sony STARVIS series sensor for capturing crystal clear video footage. WDR technology Next, True WDR technology automatically reduces the over-exposed and under-exposed areas in the video footage and balances the video footage equally. Apart from this, the devices not only provide exceptionally clear footage but also save on resources smartly. The device has in-built storage support up to 512GB that lets monitor continuously on days  Activity-based bandwidth consumption and H.265 compression technology save both bandwidth and storage capacity which makes one store video footage for more days. Besides this, the device has in-built storage support up to 512GB that lets monitor continuously on days when there is a network failure. Also, the cameras provide a wider field of view that result in fewer blind spots while monitoring the premises. As a result, one saves on installation costs as fewer cameras can monitor a large space. Intelligent video analytics Furthermore, what makes these surveillance devices ideal for premises is intelligent video analytics. Smart triggers on motion detection, tripwire, intrusion detection, and tamper detection help you secure the premises in real-time. On detection of any of these preconfigured scenarios in the device, an instant notification is sent to the concerned authorities. Lastly, in terms of design, these devices conform to all the national and international standards like CE, FCC, BIS. Key features Maximum Resolution (2592x1944 pixels) True WDR (120dB) Multi-Stream Support Smart Streaming and Region of Interest Revolutionary IR Performance: 30 meters Field of View: 107° (HFOV) Signal to Noise Ratio (73dB) Real-time Notifications

Surveillance monitoring for small and medium-sized sites could be a tough challenge at night. Options are often limited to day/night cameras and low-light cameras (sometimes referred to as Starlight cameras). These devices continue to provide colour images when lighting levels reduce up to a point but switch to black and white when they deteriorate further. But to maintain colour images in low light conditions with these cameras, other aspects of the image – such as noise and definition – are often compromised. Cameras trying to maintain colour images at night often struggle when there is movement in the scene, or when there’s a wide dynamic range (the difference between the lightest and darkest parts of a scene). So how to ensure clear colour images at night? Here are 3 tips to do that: 1. Use a dual-lens camera Various types of low-light cameras are gradually becoming in demand. According to an IHS Markit report in 2019, the number of video cameras equipped with advanced low-light functionality was set to rise significantly, from 4.75 million in 2015 to 51 million by 2022. A dual-lens camera, as its name indicates, offers two lenses: one to capture lightness information, the other to capture colour information.  Dahua Full-colour 2.0 series also offers cameras with other intelligent features such as the varifocal lens and 4K Dahua Full-colour 2.0 The upgraded Dahua Full-colour 2.0 network camera series is equipped with such specifications. With pixel-level frame-by-frame mapping, the dual-lens cameras of this series present high image definition and vivid colours even when the supplementary white light is off, thus reducing light pollution and attraction of insects that can adversely affect the monitoring of the scene.  What’s more, these cameras also feature the AA (Active Alignment) process, which perfectly aligns the incoming light with the sensor. Full-colour cameras are available in dome, bullet, box, and eyeball formats. Aside from dual-lens cameras, the Dahua Full-colour 2.0 series also offers cameras with other intelligent features such as the varifocal lens and 4K resolution. 2. Use IR and white light together IR light and white lights are common cameras supplementary lights. Depending on how you use them, it can relatively affect the quality of images in low-light environments or during nighttime. Nevertheless, excessive use of white light contributes to light pollution, especially in urban areas. Dahua’s TiOC 2.0  Dahua’s TiOC (three-in-one camera) 2.0 – due to be launched in September – is equipped with Smart Dual Illuminators, which allow users to flexibly switch between IR mode and White Light mode (also referred to as Full-colour mode) based on their monitoring requirements. Default illumination is provided by the built-in IR illuminator. When a person enters the monitoring area, the white light is triggered and Full-colour mode is activated. When a target leaves the area, the LED turns off and the IR illuminator turns back on, significantly reducing light pollution in the area. TiOC 2.0 cameras also have the addition of VoiceCatcher technology that enhances sound quality and pickup Moreover, powered by OPC (Optical Path Compensation) technology, the TiOC 2.0 cameras can correct the angle of refraction of different light rays, allowing Dahua IPCs to output brighter and clearer black & white images with an F1.0 large-aperture lens. It also has the addition of VoiceCatcher technology which is a dual mic array that enhances sound quality and pickup performance. Cameras in the TiOC 2.0 series come in 8MP, 5MP, or 4MP versions. 3. Use automatic tracking Automatic tracking is an innovative feature that transforms manually controlled PTZ cameras into automated tracking systems that keep a moving target in focus and centered in the frame. It automatically follows/tracks the target within its field of view. Dahua’s TiOC 2.0 with Auto Tracking 3.0 The TiOC 2.0 series is equipped with Auto Tracking 3.0. It is based on a deep-learning algorithm using the camera’s pan, tilt, and zoom functions to automatically track pre-defined moving targets even in environments with low illumination or during nighttime. It provides a smooth tracking process through the deep fusion of intelligent and focusing algorithms and can track targets up to a distance of 870 meters. With the Auto Tracking 2.0 algorithm as its foundation, the requirements for the tracking size of the target are further reduced, making the target size smaller and the tracking distance longer. Conclusion Difficulties in night-time monitoring have been alleviated, thanks to continuous technological innovations that made colour monitoring in low-light conditions possible. Dahua Full-colour cameras – whether standalone or as part of the TiOC series – can deliver enhanced images and surveillance whatever the time of day or night.  By utilising low-light cameras with dual-lens, smart dual illuminators, and automatic tracking, users do not have to put up with poor, unusable images at night, making these devices ideal for small and medium-sized application scenarios such as villas, parking lots, and retail shops.

One of Turkey's most respected conglomerates, Bilkent Holding subsidiary Tepe Security, was awarded a contribution plaque by Ankara Provincial Police Department for its contributions to the electronic security sector. Electronic security solutions Tepe Security produces special electronic security solutions for individuals and institutions and provides 24/7 uninterrupted electronic security services with its alarm systems and Alarm Monitoring Centre, draws attention with the applications it has implemented to make the lives of its customers easier and its high customer satisfaction rate. Indicating that the plaque for contribution to the sector presented by Ankara Provincial Police Deputy Chief Saltuk Buğrahan Öztürk is a source of great pride for them, Tepe Security General Manager Özgür Gök said that each new award that Tepe Security has is a driving force on the road to better. One of the most important factors in choosing an alarm system is the 24/7 live alarm monitoring service" 24/7 live alarm monitoring Pointing out that the Tepe Security Alarm Monitoring Centre monitors the alarm subscribers across the country 24/7, Gök said, “Our operators with private security ID cards, who evaluate the alarm signal coming from our customers' homes or workplaces, communicate with the security units within seconds and our security units respond to the incident immediately.”  “One of the most important factors in choosing an alarm system is the 24/7 live alarm monitoring service we offer at Tepe quality. As Tepe Security, we are happy to carry out this business arm in arm with safety and to contribute to the sector.” Tepe Security, one of the leading companies in its sector, offers services in 81 provinces of Turkey with its customers approaching 80 thousand.

The first signs of fire can be spotted 24/7, even in challenging outdoor conditions, on a manufacturing complex, thanks to algorithm-driven video camera, AVIOTEC from Bosch Security Systems. AVIOTEC firmware version 7.81 AVIOTEC takes the next step, as it goes outdoors. The performance has been extended for equal reliability in sheltered outdoor areas. AVIOTEC's new firmware version 7.81 comprises AI-supported algorithms, which can now detect flames and smoke in changing weather and light conditions. The AI-supported algorithms have been developed further to ensure reliability for sheltered outdoor areas. The fire risk in these areas and nearby buildings can now be monitored with intelligent, fast and reliable detection. AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 The video-based fire detection camera, AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 is now delivered with the new firmware version 7.81 The video-based fire detection camera, AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 is now delivered with the new firmware version 7.81. Existing installations can be upgraded to the new technology by a free firmware update. The fundamental purpose of manufacturers is the efficient output of parts and products for delivery to partners or consumers. These vast work environments, however, pose huge challenges to safety managers. They accommodate a large workforce, whose occupational safety must be protected from identified hazards. Securing valuable cargo in outdoor depots The sites typically store valuable materials and facilities for business operations, in outdoor depots on site, some of which are highly flammable. A severe lack of effective solutions, which include outdoor fire detection, basically means innovative, reliable fire detection cameras with state-of-the-art technology are a welcome development for safety managers, who are responsible for reducing risks to personnel and business continuity. Manufacturing storage space may house large stocks of flammable or combustible substances, like solvents, or materials which kindle rapidly, such as wooden pallets or wood chips. In addition, combined waste from diverse production activities may be stored nearby in large quantities, creating a high fire load. Materials and equipment stored Materials and equipment typically stored, and for how long, depends on the specific industry and operations. They can include: Pulp and paper - Timber, wood chips, paper, solvents Agriculture – Fertilisers, pesticides, hay, animal feed Automotive – Tires, benz, welding materials Recycling – Card, paper, plastics, residues of substances in discarded materials Facility and premise security Many storage areas for manufacturers are sheltered, but open, outdoor perimeter areas, rather than locked warehouses with fire-proof exteriors. This makes them vulnerable to vandalism, theft or arson by intruders, so additional security measures are essential for protection of premises. Another danger is that strong sunlight, wind speeds or the storage of a hazardous mix of materials and substances means fires or explosions could occur spontaneously. Industrial buildings pose high fire risk Business costs of fire damage to manufacturing complexes and their vicinity can run into hundreds of millions An industrial building is usually open plan. Flames could be fanned by breezes through open windows or movement, and fabrics, paper, chemicals and dust could accelerate the spread of fire to a wider area, including adjacent structures and outdoor storage. Similarly, a fire that started outside could rapidly blaze through to adjoining buildings. The safety of employees still on site, during a fire incident, are also immediately at risk from explosions, burns or collapsing structures. Inhalation of smoke or toxic vapours from burning substances could have a detrimental short- or long-term impact on health. Business costs of fire damage to manufacturing complexes and their local vicinity can run into hundreds of millions. Production can be halted abruptly or site shutdowns may be necessary for repairs, reconstruction or relocation to alternative sites. A large-scale industrial fire could have a dramatic negative impact on the environment as well. Smoke detectors not effective in outdoor settings While standard fire detection systems function well to protect people and property indoors, these typical smoke detectors are not effective in outdoor settings. The high ceilings and open structure of outdoor storage shelters often do not offer a practical set-up for positioning devices for a suitable fire detection range, so that they can function reliably. The open area and fresh air environment will dilute the concentration of the smoke, or the wind can redirect smoke away from the position of the detector, so it goes unnoticed, giving the impression of no imminent threat of fire. Importance of fire detection in outdoor areas Cigarette or chimney smoke may drift upwards, so it is picked up by a smoke detector which signals frequent false alarms interrupting production. There is a serious deficit of solutions which address challenging outdoor conditions, thus increasing hazards on the properties storing materials with a high fire load in open-air constructions. Safety managers may feel a false sense of security by installing fire detectors indoors and consider their entire premises as well-equipped for fire safety, but if something ignites outside, near flammable storage facilities, indoor fire alarms may be triggered too late. AVIOTEC’s video-based fire detection system For comprehensive fire safety on a large manufacturing complex, the fire detection and monitoring system must have the following features: Rapid in detection and triggering prompt alerts Robust against false alarms and poor weather conditions Reliable, even in low lighting and overnight AVIOTEC flame and smoke detection camera AVIOTEC IP Starlight 8000 camera provides rapid fire and smoke detection through video surveillance A flame or smoke detection camera, which monitors an area and recognises the first signs of smoldering, offers an ideal solution. AVIOTEC IP Starlight 8000 camera provides rapid fire and smoke detection through video surveillance, which functions effectively both indoors and on sheltered outdoor premises. The video smoke detection can be installed where CCTV cameras are already positioned, so safety and security of the entire premises can be covered from the same fixture points, making installation and maintenance easy. Integrated with Bosch intelligent video analytics Bosch intelligent video analytics are integrated into the AVIOTEC camera in addition to its flame and smoke detection algorithms. This means this smart video can provide surveillance for premises security as well as monitoring for any signs of fire. A combination of AI algorithm and technologies create a winning formula for fire safety with AVIOTEC IP Starlight 8000. This fire detection camera offers the following features: Uses a unique approach of cutting-edge AI alarm decision in combination with hand crafted algorithms. Works reliably in low-lighting conditions, as infrared illuminators provide a light source for the camera, enabling it to capture a clear image of an area and identify smoke and flames, even at night Is extremely reliable, as while traditional smoke alarms depend on smoke rising in close range to the device to activate it, AVIOTEC detects signs of fire through video analytics and activates alerts much sooner. As the camera is more sensitive in identifying a fire than smoke detectors, it is also robust against false alarms, so production downtime is reduced. AVIOTEC is, therefore, the all-round solution for fire safety and efficient business operations.

Swann, a global leader in do-it-yourself security, announces the release of the  Swann Wire-Free Security Camera, a new, completely wireless camera that can be set up in seconds and used for monitoring indoors or outdoors. The camera comes stocked with state-of-the-art smart security features, including free face recognition and cloud or local storage. Swann features This 100% wireless camera is quick and easy to set up and use. Features included are: Free Face Recognition with Smart Mobile Alerts – Recognising up to 10 people, this feature can tell when a friend or family member is at the door. Free local and cloud storage with added storage available via subscription services. True Detect™heat and motion-sensing– ensuring one get reliable alerts Infrared Night Vision – allowing to see in the dark up to 26 feet 1080p Video Resolution – Crystal clear images perfect for indoor or outdoor use IP65 Weatherproof Rating –meaning the camera is rugged enough to withstand rain, snow, and the intense heat of summer. Ultra-wide 180° Viewing Angle – Optimises views of the environment by picking up activity often missed by other cameras. This feature decreases the number of cameras needed to secure a home or business. Wire-free security camera “We are proud to announce the release of the new Wire-Free Security Camera, which delivers high-performance smart security with a comprehensive set of features while keeping true to our tradition of the low cost of ownership and ease of use,” said Mike Lucas, CEO, Swann.  “With both a microphone and a speaker, users can have two-way conversations with anyone near the camera which helps with scaring off intruders or telling a delivery worker where to safely place that all-important delivery. Alternatively, if the camera is indoors, you can utilize it as a perfect way to keep in contact with family or pets.” A secure security camera Swann Wire-Free Security Camera is protected by two-factor authentication, 128-bit encryption of video and data Swann upholds the security of the video feed and personal information with the same high standards they have for the security of home and business. The Swann Wire-Free Security Camera is protected by two-factor authentication, 128-bit bank-level encryption of video and data, along personalised username and password safeguards. One's privacy and security are as well protected as one's home or business. Completely free local and cloud storage means the footage is saved to a secure cloud (for seven days rolling) and local back-up (for two days rolling). With this multi-tiered approach to storage, recording continues even in the case of an internet or power outage and is automatically backed up to the cloud once the issues are resolved. The security system in the palm The Swann Wire-Free Security Camera is part of a complete security ecosystem that can be managed under the Swann Security app.  A comprehensive mobile security command center, Users can add Swann cameras or fully wired DVR or NVR surveillance systems. This gives you the ability to manage an entire Swann security system seamlessly within one app and with full control of wired and wireless security devices across multiple sites. The app provides access to stream live videos and rich notifications of any onsite activity so users know what’s happening when it happens. Swann is the only security brand that offers a complete line-up of inter-connectable wired and wireless security solutions that is also completely integrated with Google Assistant and Alexa. Pricing and availability The Swann Wire-Free Security Camera is available from online and leading retail stores. The single pack will retail at $149, with a 5-Pack Sam’s Club Bundle at $499. The 5-pack will also be available directly on Swann.com for $699.

Since the early 1920s, when the transition to fast food consumption began with the grand opening of White Castle in Wichita, Kansas, fast-casual dining has appealed to a fast-paced way of life – offering convenience and affordability. Today, fast-casual restaurants are as popular as ever, continuing to challenge restaurants to offer a consistent brand experience. This requires security and safety operations to be conducted at a volume and pace too rapid for humans to consistently monitor and execute productively. 24/7 safety and security Many major fast-food chains, such as McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Chick-fil-A, etc., operate sophisticated systems to ensure safety and security in restaurants 24/7. This sets a standard for security hardware and equipment in all locations. These include video surveillance systems, alarm systems, time-delay safes, fortified drive-thru windows, and robbery prevention training for the entire staff. Smart security cameras help operators automate the monitoring and analysing of visitor and employee behaviour The monitoring of video surveillance systems offers the highest level of return amongst these technologies when fast-casual chains are looking for simplified automation and optimisation of operations. Smart security cameras that combine the Internet of Things (IoT) and security cameras with Artificial Intelligence-enabled video analytics, help operators automate the monitoring and analysing of visitor and employee behaviour. By gaining valuable insights from video data, restaurant operations can be optimised, and customer experience will be enhanced. Maintaining consistency Optimised execution and consistent quality are barriers faced by many fast-casual food chains, and when coupled with rising labor costs, low training, and high employee turnover, are making the case for technology solutions designed to help with consistent execution. However, very few are taking advantage of digitised, or automated, opportunities. According to the Zenput, 2020 Restaurant Ops Report, 27 percent of operators say their company is embracing technology to automate various aspects of their organisation “to a great extent.” However, 83 percent of operators who have embraced automation, report their experience has been positive.  Positive customer experience Smart cameras equipped with AI-video analytics are also helping food retailers to ensure consistency Because uniformity of the customer experience is an important aspect of fast-casual spaces, each location must streamline the entire process, from customer line entry to order, production, and delivery and exit. Smart cameras equipped with AI-video analytics are also helping food retailers to ensure consistency across locations and processes in a variety of innovative ways. One restaurant that was able to increase sales based on business intelligence gathered from smart cameras was Happy Donazz & Co, a German baked goods chain specialising in American-style donuts. With 15 franchise outlets occupying a mix of locations, including in shopping centres and some inside major food retailers, the German chain needed a consistent way to analyse the performance of individual outlets. This information would be used to create internal benchmarks for corporate and franchisee use as well as to provide individual franchise owners intelligence to make improvements and boost individual store sales. Enhanced restaurant layout Happy Donazz deployed a footfall application in its stores to monitor visitor traffic and customer flow. By gathering visual analysis over time, Happy Donazz was able to detect and respond to customer flow patterns. Through the use of heat mapping applications, a geographical representation of the data can be gained from camera systems, enabling operators like Happy Donazz to easily identify critical areas and take appropriate action to optimise the layout. For example, if a restaurant offers a self-checkout or online order pick-up station, smart cameras can help decision-makers in designing the best possible routes through a restaurant for customers. Over time, analysis can also help identify weaknesses in restaurant layout and improve overall customer experience. By offering real-time insights, cameras can also help to spot loitering in the restroom or identify suspicious behaviour in corners or hallways that are difficult to monitor. The cameras can also monitor the self-checkout or online order pick-up areas for suspicious behaviour and possible thefts. Video analytics for streamlined staffing and operations Smart security cameras analyse restaurant occupancy to plan to staff based on actual demand, rather than just feeling Proper staffing for busy times can be difficult for many fast-casual restaurants. Smart cameras can help fine-tune and optimise personnel planning by analysing restaurant occupancy continuously. This ensures managers can keep enough staff on hand at all times, creating superior customer experiences. Smart security cameras detect visitors entering and leaving a restaurant, using people counting applications, and analyse restaurant occupancy over time enabling managers to plan to staff based on actual demand, rather than just gut feeling. The future of AI video analytics in fast-casual restaurants Today’s technology has evolved from “digital” to “smart,” leveraging AI to gain better insights into business operations and understand customer behaviour. While fast-casual restaurants have been required to adapt to modern technologies faster than other restaurants due to the speed and accuracy requirements of production, this offers them the unique opportunity to be some of the first to leverage video analytic technology. With this in mind, fast-food/fast-casual restaurants can ensure each store is running as optimally as possible, offering consistent experience and ensuring quality standards are being met – ushering in the dining experience of the future.

A deep native integration of Bosch cameras with software from ISS proactively catalyses the best in security and surveillance, while providing advanced intelligent video tools. ISS SecurOS provides intelligent enterprise video management solutions with emphasis on providing scalability and flexibility to meet the customer’s needs. Deeply integrating built-in video analytics from Bosch cameras improves operator efficiency and situational awareness to manage complex environments. ISS SecurOS maximises camera performance for license plate recognition, face recognition, and container/train carriages recognition. The cameras meet the performance needs for advanced analytics, ensuring the success of projects and saving time, resources, and cost. The partnership has delivered multi-thousand-camera safe city deployments, industrial analytics solutions, and systems for large-scale transport providers. The usage of roads and parking lots can be managed more effectively by knowing the whereabouts of each vehicle License plate capture The usage of roads and parking lots can be managed more effectively by knowing the whereabouts of each and every vehicle. Operations managers are accountable for efficient logistical flows and effective use of roads and parking lots. Knowing the ins and outs of the transport infrastructure and what’s going on at all times provides the knowledge required to ensure operations are running safely, efficiently and in compliance with the rules and laws. An important part of this comes from monitoring which vehicles are entering an area and ensuring they are allowed to be there. Capturing license plates of every vehicle moving in an area provides knowledge of traffic flows and usage patterns. Such a solution should also allow a customer to easily configure and manage monitoring preferences and permit easy data exchanges with other operational management systems and services to manage an infrastructure and logistics as a whole. Reliable license plate data Robust mechanical design of cameras ensures reliable 24/7 operation for many years even in harsh environments As transportation infrastructures are often operating around the clock, reliable vehicle identification data is required 24/7. This means that the cameras capturing this data should work in all lighting and weather conditions, for both slow- and fast-moving vehicles. Cameras must be built to produce usable images 24/7 in all weather conditions. For quality license plate recognition in both day and night, the cameras make use of supplementary infrared light. A special License Plate Recognition (LPR) mode, developed in collaboration with LPR software, delivers readable license plates even with glaring headlights and with fast moving vehicles. Robust mechanical design of cameras ensures reliable 24/7 operation for many years even in harsh environments. License Plate Capture solution The SecurOSTM AUTO system of ISS, when used with Bosch cameras, provides easy to deploy solutions for all of these requirements. It recognises license plates from many countries, manages and matches white, hot and blacklists and notifies the operator either in the GUI or through a messaging interface to other management systems. Additionally, the system can be used and managed as a standalone or embedded in other management systems on the premises.

Schools today are charged to provide an environment that is both safe and conducive to learning, which can be difficult considering the range of security incidents and challenges they face, including bullying, fights, graffiti, theft and more. In addition to working within often tight budgetary constraints, a main challenge is to provide the highest level of security in an aesthetically pleasing way that doesn’t make students feel as if they are in prison. While these two needs may seem mutually exclusive to some degree, that doesn’t have to be the case. School security can be achieved without building 20-foot walls or putting barbed wire around the perimeter. The key to balancing the security and learning environment can be found in the four pillars of a good school security strategy, namely people, practices, technology and physical environment. A mobile app or text notification system could be used to alert students and staff of potential problems Situational awareness One of the most effective measures to take is to educate staff and even students to learn to be aware about their surroundings and adopt the 'If you see something, say something' mentality. In an emergency, time is of the essence, so the speed of response becomes critical. Educating staff and students to recognise potential problems and report them is a good first step. Augmenting this with mobile apps and/or texting capabilities, for example, that allow someone to send a photo to school security or law enforcement for quick assessment and evaluation, can speed response even more. A mobile app or text notification system could also be used to alert students and staff of potential problems and provide instructions on what steps to take in order to remain safe. By providing real-time situational awareness about potential responses, these types of technologies can reduce the number of armed guards or resource officers needed to patrol a school or campus, which also makes students more comfortable and able to learn in a non-prison-like environment. Security best practices Every school should establish a set of security policies and procedures and ensure that staff and students understand what to do if they suspect a problem or if an incident should unfold at the school. However, too often, schools may not know where to start when seeking out best practices. And once these policies are in place, there may be confusion about how to audit them to ensure people are properly educated. The NFPA has begun work on a school security standard that would address a range of issues schools face on a daily basis A number of organisations are available to aid with this process, such as the Partner Alliance for School Safety a group founded in cooperation with SIA (Security Industry Association), which provides resources and tools to help schools and security professionals evaluate and establish the best security protection for their buildings. These guidelines and best practices are designed to help schools spend their often limited funds on the right security solutions. Safe and Sound Schools provides downloadable school security toolkits, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has recently released the NFPA 3000 Active shooter response guidelines and has begun work on a school security standard that would address a range of issues schools face on a daily basis. The key takeaway is that the information is out there, and the organisations mentioned above are excellent resources for helping schools create safe, secure and learning-conducive environments. Technology in school security The second thing that needs to be considered is how technology can be brought to bear to contribute to school security. Video surveillance with video analytics can be deployed to monitor areas at certain times of day. For example, once school starts, there shouldn’t be a lot of activity in the parking lot or in particular areas around the school. For these situations, intelligent cameras with video analytics can be used to detect activity in those areas of interest to alert school security that something may need their attention. This might be a vehicle entering a lot or driving against the normal traffic flow, which may simply be a parent arriving to pick their child up early, or it could be something worth following up on. Radar detection is ideal for perimeters, where a device can be set up unobtrusively to alert when someone enters a particular area In any case, this is something that should be brought to the attention of someone who can quickly assess the situation and determine what, if any, response is needed. Because the goal in a potentially dangerous situation is speed response times. The faster you’re able to detect something using technology, the faster you’re able to respond. Therefore, being able to identify something happening in a parking lot and alert school resource officers could provide 30 seconds or a minute head start for response, which can get the school into a lockdown situation and get first responders on site more quickly.Facial recognition systems and providing access through smartphones could help create a more welcoming and secure environment for students, staff and parents After-hour monitoring solutions Monitoring buildings and facilities after hours presents a different set of challenges. For sporting events, the National Center for Spectator Sports and Security (NCS4) at the University of Southern Mississippi provides best practice guidance for sporting facilities and events not only just for universities but even including those at high schools. It’s been shown that using lighting at night can deter crime. However, it can be expensive to keep a building and grounds illuminated all night, every night. To mitigate these concerns and potential costs, there are video cameras available with extreme low-light capability that allows them to see in near-dark or in some cases complete darkness. This allows a school to save money by turning lights off while achieving a level of surveillance performance similar to daytime deployments. Radar detection Another technology for effective school security, both during and after school hours, is radar detection. This is ideal for perimeters, where a device can be set up unobtrusively to alert when someone enters a particular area. Radar can be deployed with a single PTZ camera, which can track whatever has been detected to provide real-time situational awareness for a school resource officer or law enforcement to investigate to determine the potential threat, if any, related to the perimeter breach.Following the four pillars of school security can ease the process while improving the effectiveness and efficiency of securing educational facilities More often than not, schools are faced with issues that are not necessarily the worst-case scenario everyone fears, such as how to identify parents and others who are authorised to pick a child up from school early. In this instance, facial recognition systems and providing access through smartphones could help create a more welcoming and secure environment for students, staff and parents. Lighting and landscaping In addition to technology, one of the things that can contribute to a safer school environment is environmental design. CPTED provides four basic principles, one of which is natural surveillance, which follows a 'see and be seen' philosophy. In other words, when people know they can be seen, they are less likely to commit a crime. The main points in this general principle are lighting and landscaping. For example, a school doesn’t want to block potentially vulnerable areas with landscaping, so the height and thickness of any potential landscaping elements should be carefully considered. In general, openness and visibility should be the guiding factors. Securing physical environment Another aspect of the physical environment is maintenance. If a window gets broken but isn’t fixed right away, that tends to invite vandalism. These are just two of the guidelines CPTED offers for creating a more secure environment that doesn’t feel like a prison. In general, finding the right mix between maintaining security and providing a welcoming, aesthetically pleasing and learning-conducive environment can seem like a difficult – if not impossible – task. Following the four pillars of school security can ease the process while improving the effectiveness and efficiency of securing educational facilities.

Video surveillance cannot address all the security challenges in education, but it is a valuable tool and among the least obtrusive options available. And the list of security challenges that video can address grows every day. Video systems can provide real-time monitoring of school premises and facilitate rapid response to incidents. New advances such as video analytics are currently underutilised in the education arena. Historically, video has been used as a forensic tool in the education market, providing critical information about an incident after the fact. But that generalisation is changing. Today, networking enables video images to be shared throughout a school system, travelling over existing networks, empowering a more centralised security management structure, and making video more valuable. In particular, higher education institutions are more likely to view live video, given the larger campuses, greater number of buildings, and more public areas where staff and students congregate. Challenges for securing a school environment Multiple challenges in the education market for security goods and services (from a video perspective) include wide open spaces that make securing schools with video surveillance cameras difficult since the vast amount of coverage required can be cost-prohibitive. Second, state and federal regulations must be taken into account and balanced with the need to protect student privacy. Panoramic cameras are one tool to address challenges, as a single 360-degree camera can replace between 4 and 5 PTZ cameras Finally, schools and colleges face dwindling budgets, which means security solutions must deliver more coverage and functionality, while also being cost-effective to deploy. Panoramic cameras are one tool to address these challenges, as a single 360-degree camera can replace between four and five traditional pan-tilt-zoom cameras, resulting in fewer cameras and more coverage – all at a lower cost for hardware and licensing. Data capture form to appear here! Intelligent cameras with video analytics Video surveillance with video analytics can be deployed to monitor areas at certain times of day. For example, once school starts, there shouldn’t be a lot of activity in the parking lot or in particular areas around the school. For these situations, intelligent cameras with video analytics can be used to detect activity in those areas of interest to alert school security that something may need their attention. Radar detection is ideal for perimeters, where a device can be set up unobtrusively to alert when someone enters a particular area. ACC 6 video management software with Avigilon Appearance Search technology provides advanced video analytics search The goal in a potentially dangerous situation is to speed up response times. The faster you’re able to detect something using technology, the faster you’re able to respond. Therefore, being able to identify something happening in a parking lot and alert school resource officers could provide 30 seconds or a minute head start for response, which can get the school into a lockdown situation and get first responders on site more quickly. Video cameras with low-light capability It’s been shown that using lighting at night can deter crime. However, it can be expensive to keep a building and grounds illuminated all night, every night. To mitigate these concerns and potential costs, there are video cameras available with extreme low-light capability that allows them to see in near-dark or in some cases complete darkness. This allows a school to save money by turning lights off while achieving a level of surveillance performance similar to daytime deployments. There are video cameras available with extreme low-light capability to see in near-dark or complete darkness Facing above-average student incident rates and student disciplinary concerns at some schools, a school system in the United States sought to upgrade its video surveillance system to allow better local and remote monitoring in important areas. Avigilon high-definition cameras with self-learning video analytics and access control solutions were installed in 101 schools, and ACC 6 video management software with Avigilon Appearance Search technology provides advanced video analytics search. A deep learning artificial intelligence search engine can sort through hours of footage and allow operators to click on a button and search for all instances of a person or vehicle across all cameras on a site, quickly and efficiently.

The phrase ‘eye in the sky’ is taking on a whole new meaning as the concept of home security drones becomes a plausible idea that could be realised in the not-too-distant future. It’s a possibility that came to light recently in the form of a patent that was granted to Amazon for ‘Image Creation Using Geo-Fence Data’. The patent specifies a “geo-fence, which may be a virtual perimeter or boundary around a real-world geographic area.” An unmanned autonomous vehicle (UAV) may provide surveillance images of data of objects inside the geo-fence. Any video captured outside the geo-fence would be obscured or objects removed to ensure privacy. Detecting break-ins and fires The Amazon patent outlines how its UAVs could perform a surveillance action at a property of an authorised party. It would be ‘hired’ to look out for open garage doors, broken windows, graffiti, or even a fire. The drone would only view authorised locations and provide information back to the homeowner. The idea is to deploy Amazon’s ‘delivery drone’ to provide surveillance of customers’ homes The idea is to deploy Amazon’s previously proposed (but not yet realised) ‘delivery drone’ to provide surveillance of customers’ homes between making deliveries. (One could say the employment situation has truly peaked when drones start taking second jobs!) In a ‘surveillance as a service’ scenario, Amazon’s customers would pay for visits on an hourly, daily or weekly basis. Drones would be equipped with night vision and microphones to expand their sensing capabilities. (The microphone aspect seems creepy until you remember that Amazon’s Echo devices already have a microphone listening to what happens inside our homes.) A remaining obstacle for such a plan is the matter of U.S. Federal Aviation Administration regulations that restrict commercial drone operations and even hobbyist or consumer drone flights outside an operator’s line of sight. Drones would be equipped with night vision and microphones to expand their sensing capabilities Amazon company officials have stressed that the plan is still in its infancy and implementation would be in the future. “The patent clearly states that it would be an opt-in service available to customers who authorise monitoring of their home,” Amazon’s John Tagle told National Public Radio (NPR). Although use of drones for security is in the future, the launch of delivery drones appears to be on the nearer-term horizon. Amazon has said it hopes to launch a commercial service in a matter of months. Amazon’s competitor – Alphabet’s Wing – has already been granted FAA approval to make deliveries in the United States. Autonomous drone monitoring Another company, Sunflower Labs, is also working on security drones and has created a prototype that uses an autonomous drone to monitor activity in conjunction with a series of motion and vibration sensors located around the house. The sensors, which can detect footsteps or car engines, are placed around the home to create a virtual map, track objects and guide the drone. The ground sensors would alert a homeowner of something moving around the house. The homeowner could then elect to deploy the drone, which would stream a live video feed to a smart phone or tablet. Smart home technologies are in the process of transforming the home security market Smart home technologies and do-it-yourself security installations are in the process of transforming the home security market. The traditional ‘alarm service’ model is barely recognisable today among all the changes and new products, from home automation to video doorbells to personal assistants such as Siri and Alexa. Technology-loving consumers are looking at an expanding menu of options just as they are embracing new ways to protect their homes. Instead of a call to an alarm company, a consumer today may instead view a video of a burglary-in-progress live-streamed to their smart phone. Amazon and the other Big Tech companies are already playing a role in the disruption. Home security provided by a drone (on its way to delivering a package down the street) may seem like an extreme divergence from the norm. But such is the changing world of smart homes and residential security.

The excitement of ISC West 2019 continued until the very end – almost. Exhilarated by the first two busy days of the show, attendees and exhibitors seemed to welcome a slower third day. There were no complaints about booth traffic, and still plenty of thoughtful conversations taking place, everyone determined to maximise the value of face time with customers until the last second. Building an IoT ecosystem in SAST At a show lacking in high-profile new technology announcements, the biggest news is perhaps the possible long-term impact of first-time exhibitor Security and Safety Things (SAST), a Bosch startup. SAST is building a new Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for the security and safety industry, including an app store, an open and secure camera operating system, a software developer environment, and a portal for integrators. SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable" Their 1,800-square-foot booth was big for a first-time exhibitor, and the American football theme was well received, as was the substance of the company’s effort to drive innovation in a highly fragmented industry. Seeing actual cameras and apps on display at the ISC West booth is “more real than PowerPoint,” says Hartmut Schaper, CEO of Security and Safety Things (SAST). “For us, seeing is believing,” says Schaper. “It was important for us to show cameras and apps for the first time. People are surprised at how far down the road we are.” “This dynamic will change in the industry,” says Schaper. “SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable. Soon there will be more processing power on the edge. People will find a way to use the extra processing power.” “Seeing is believing” at the SAST booth at ISC West 2019, where CEO Hartmut Schaper showed several manufacturers’ cameras whose functionality can be expanded using Android apps Developing more apps Several large manufacturers are already involved in the initiative, but there are some holdouts. “We are having ongoing talks with everyone to convince them to join,” Schaper says. “Some of the bigger ones will come around. We are not a camera manufacturer, and not a threat. We are owned by Bosch but are managed completely separately. There will be more and more apps developed, and momentum will increase.” “A year from now we will have successful customers we can talk about, and more camera manufacturers on board,” he says. “This year we are taxiing on the runway, but next year we will have cleared the tarmac and be climbing.” If the approach succeeds, their first appearance at ISC West will be remembered as historic. Future of surveillance cameras Off the show floor, in a nearby meeting room, chip maker Ambarella demonstrated technologies that will be driving the future of video surveillance cameras, including more intelligence at the edge. “People have been using more traditional video analytics approaches, though most of them have been disappointing,” says Chris Day, Ambarella VP of Marketing and Business Development. “What is ground-breaking now is the use of neural networks and real artificial intelligence, which has increased capabilities 100x. "You will see camera products coming out over the next year that are massively better than before. It’s not just incrementally getting better. Cameras will be coming out later this year with analytics that are absolutely amazing based on [the new chips.]” Larry Anderson, editor-in-chief of SecurityInformed.com, talks about Ambarella HDR and Low Light Solutions with Jerome Gigot, Senior Director of Marketing for Ambarella. (Source: Ambarella) New systems-on-chips Ambarella has introduced four new systems-on-chips (SoCs) in the last year, with emphasis on computer vision (video analytics). The newest is the S6LM Camera SoC with 4K imaging technology, unveiled at ISC West. The S6LM includes Ambarella's latest high dynamic range (HDR) and low-light processing technology, highly efficient 4K H.264 and H.265 encoding, multi-streaming, on-chip 360-degree de-warping, cyber-security features, and a quad-core CPU. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff" “With so much focus on AI and computer vision, I’m concerned the industry has taken focus away from low light imaging, wide dynamic range and image quality,” says Day. “You have to see the details in an image. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff, it’s all included in one chip.” From products to systems With a new general manager on board (Daniel Gundlach, formerly of Bosch), FLIR Systems Security Division is continuing its transition from a product company to a solutions provider, removing internal silos to clear the path. FLIR offers a strong end-to-end portfolio for Smart Cities applications, including the TruWITNESS line of body worn cameras and newly acquired Aeryon drones. FLIR’s historical strength as the top thermal imaging provider continues, but today they are much more than a thermal imaging company, offering visible day/night cameras, infrared pan-tilt-zoom cameras, video management systems and other technologies to provide a broader platform. FLIR's Saros security cameras combine multiple security technologies, including thermal sensors, high-resolution visible imaging, IR and visible LED illuminators, onboard analytics and two-way audio and digital input/outputs. Products in critical infrastructure applications In addition to Safe Cities, FLIR installs a range of products in critical infrastructure applications, such as oil and gas and electric utilities. Ports also tend to combine traditional security with an emphasis on perimeter protection, a FLIR strength. Existing perimeter protection applications can open opportunities for the broader platform. For example, installing a complete system in an airport that already uses FLIR’s thermal technology represents “low-hanging fruit” for the company, says Fredrik Wallberg, FLIR Director of Marketing – Security and Intelligent Transportation Systems. Ambarella demonstrates its latest imaging technology for video security during ISC West 2019 (Source: Ambarella) Integrated solutions Bosch's focus At the Bosch booth, there was an emphasis on integrated solutions and the customer experience. A mock retail store setup demonstrated systems such as overhead cameras for people counting and alarm communication to provide an alert if a refrigerator door is left ajar. A wireless panic button generates a silent alarm, communicates with a 2-way radio, and triggers a camera to focus on the area. An AVIOTEK IP camera alarms if there is a fire, based on observing actual flames rather than smoke. A new Bosch fixed dome camera series offers wireless remote commissioning capabilities that reduce installation and set-up time by up to 75 percent. Set-up only takes three steps: install the mounting bracket, connect the cables, and attach the camera module. Commissioning can be done wirelessly or remotely with no need for ladders or lifts. Dahua marks five years in the U.S. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view Time flies in the security industry, and it has already been five years since the Dahua brand entered the U.S. market. Today the company offers products through ADI and some 20 distributors, and has more than 30 technical consultants and technical support employees and 50 or 60 sales people in the field (including independent rep firms). “We are growing,” says Tim Shen, Director of Marketing at Dahua Technology USA. “It’s exciting for the company.” At ISC West, Dahua introduced a line of Multi-Flex panoramic cameras with lens modules that can be repositioned along an internal track for 180-, 270- or 360-degree views, providing flexibility for integrators. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view. Cost savings come from ease of installation (one camera instead of four) and only one VMS license (instead of four). AI and night colour cameras  Dahua is also emphasising its Night Colour cameras that remain in full colour mode regardless of how dark it gets. There is no IR illumination or IR cut filter – the camera stays in color mode and displays any visible image in colour with as little as 1 lux of illumination. The 2 megapixel version is on display at ISC West, and a 4 megapixel version will come in the fall. A year ago at ISC West, Dahua emphasised its initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI) in order to position the company as a technology leader. This year, the message was more general – ‘Power Through Technology.’ The range of Dahua technologies includes AI, Night Colour, Starlight low-light imaging, fifth-generation HDCVI, and e-POE (Enhanced Power over Ethernet). Dahua USA's Director of Marketing says "the market itself likes AI", and expects more AI applications to follow (Source: Dahua USA's LinkedIn) “When we present AI to customers, they are happy, but when it comes to the budget they don’t have it,” says Shen. “The market itself likes AI, and it’s very much a buzzword. But we still need a proof of concept that it can do something good for end users. We need time to develop broader applications. The ‘smart retail’ market and education are good places to start.” he says. “AI is for project business,” adds Jennifer Hackenburg, Dahua’s Senior Product Marketing Manager. “Projects that are looking at AI haven’t come to fruition yet; they are still in the pipeline. It’s not for your everyday business. They are implementing it, but not as fast.” Access control beyond doors Access control should extend beyond doors. That’s the message I heard at the ASSA ABLOY booth, which displayed a variety of physical locks and intelligent access systems. An example is traffic cabinets, those metal boxes in public locations that could potentially be accessed to invade an internal network. ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces throughout an enterprise. The company’s ‘security continuum’ message draws attention to the need for the right level of security for the right opening, using existing infrastructure as well as new electronic technologies. “Customers face a combination of non-traditional access control and questions on how they can secure things that are not doors,” says David Corbin, ASSA ABLOY Director of Access Control Accessories. The security message is resonating beyond the traditional security department to involve other stakeholders in an enterprise, including IT directors. There is new awareness of vulnerabilities that have been there forever, such as traffic cabinets that can be opened with a key purchased on eBay.

A high-definition IP surveillance system from Dahua Technology is providing 24/7 security and operations management at a large freight and logistics hub, located in Cannock, West Midlands, United Kingdom. Dahua IP video surveillance system The 54-camera system has been installed throughout Pentalver’s 37-acre site. The equipment includes 5 MP dome cameras with IR illumination up to 50 metres, 180-degree panoramic domes, comprising an array of four 2 MP cameras each with IR illumination up to 60 metres, 5 MP bullet cameras, 4 MP PTZ network cameras, and 5 MP 360-degree internal dome cameras. All cameras feature Dahua’s Starlight lowlight technology and AI functionality with deep learning algorithms, to detect events, such as perimeter breaches, movement detection and scene change. DSS Express video management system The installation also includes Dahua’s DSS Express video management system, enabling users to view images only relevant to them, two Dahua 32-channel 36 TB NVRs (Network Video Recorders) and 12 ruggedised network PoE switches. The site consists of freight container storage in one section and road haulage transport in the other. It was previously equipped with an ageing analogue CCTV system, elements of which was in various states of disrepair and had become unfit for purpose. High definition site monitoring The objective for the new system was to provide high-definition monitoring of the whole site, at all times, for security and logistics managers to be able to have access to images relevant to them, partitioned by the Dahua DSS Express video management system. The installer, Richards CCTV, was tasked with providing a perimeter protection solution, as well as a range of PTZ cameras around the site. The biggest challenge was the installation of the network infrastructure, with multiple fibre links between remote buildings and the central office. This was achieved using ruggedised network PoE switches with 2 GB ports for high-speed connection. Enhanced security and visibility Security is key for us, but we also use the system to have good visibility of our operations" Richard Harte, General Manager at the Cannock terminal, said that good security and visibility of operations is essential for such a large and busy site with a bonded storage area. He stated, “With the previous system, we came to recognise how poor our sight over the depot was. Security is key for us, but we also use the system to have good visibility of our operations, as well as for health and safety and training purposes.” Richards CCTV, efficient system installer Richard Harte adds, “We found Richards CCTV to be a professional, cost-effective and efficient installer, with a fast response for their maintenance operation. I am also particularly impressed with the quality of the system components and the way we can view, and control cameras remotely with no latency.” Richard Harte and his team are so satisfied with the solution that they are advocating its rollout across other Pentalver sites and have shared their recommendations with the company’s safety team.

Badger Technologies, a product division of Jabil and leader in retail automation, is collaborating with TrackTik Software, a cloud-based security workforce management, to automate manual security checks at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) in Columbus, Ohio. A pilot program is underway using Badger™ PatrolBot™ autonomous robot and TrackTik software to augment the museum’s 24/7 security team, safeguard world-class exhibits, and offer an extra measure of protection to museum visitors and staff.  Robotics based security operations As the nation’s first and only memorial dedicated solely to telling the stories of veterans, NVMM is honouring the courageous women who have served their country by naming the robot “Deborah” after Deborah Sampson. A Massachusetts native who disguised herself as a man to serve in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, Deborah is one of several women with a documented record of military combat experience in that war.  The museum pilots this autonomous security robot while honouring one of the nation’s first female heroes" “The museum is pleased to pilot this autonomous security robot while honouring one of the nation’s first female heroes of the American Revolution,” said Col. William J. Butler, U.S. Army (retired) and chief of staff at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. “Our ability to extend security guard operations using robotics also builds on a military tradition of leveraging leading-edge technologies to continuously improve operations.”   Badger PatrolBot autonomous robot The Badger PatrolBot autonomous robot also will participate in NVMM’s Veterans Day 2021 celebration on November 11th, which features distinguished veterans and guests, including Gen. Les L. Lyles, former vice chief of staff of the U.S. Air Force; and Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter, U.S. Army (retired) and president and CEO of the National Veterans Memorial Museum. Admission to the museum is free on Veterans Day. Badger Technologies and NVMM also will be hosting a robotics educational session for students and guests as part of the Veterans Day celebration.  Supporting veterans “It is a privilege to support the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in showcasing how world-class robotics can improve security operations,” said William “BJ” Santiago, CEO of Badger Technologies. “Security operations for the museum can direct the robot’s duties for 12 hours on a single charge to cost-effectively augment labor while extending the reach and efficiency of their security patrols.”  Badger PatrolBot robot initially will navigate automatically around exhibits and people to verify that exhibits are secured Video cameras Equipped with streaming video cameras, the Badger PatrolBot robot initially will navigate automatically around exhibits and people to verify that windows, doors, and exhibits are secured and properly sealed. During the second phase of the pilot, the robot also will verify that floors are free of debris and potential hazards. As part of a total security solution, Badger PatrolBot will take advantage of TrackTik’s Application Programming Interface (API) to streamline security guard tour scheduling, real-time checkpoint logging, incident reporting, GPS tracking, messaging, and alerts. Transforming security operations “We are deeply honoured to be part of the National Veterans Memorial Museum celebration in support of the United States veteran community," said Simon Ferragne, CEO and founder of Montreal-based TrackTik Software. "Our strategic partnership with Badger Technologies has allowed us to deliver an enhanced security workforce management solution using robotics to transform security guard operations and deliver more value to our clients. Together we are driving innovation and growth that will benefit all of our clients and the communities in which they serve."

Sensor solutions specialist HENSOLDT will supply its new airborne multi-mission surveillance radar PrecISR to one of the biggest airborne surveillance providers, CAE-Aviation, Luxembourg. HENSOLDT was awarded a contract to deliver one PrecISR™1000 until year-end to CAE Aviation for installation underneath a King Air Beechcraft B350 aircraft for an undisclosed customer.  The contract was signed after PrecISR had proven impressive SAR/MTI capabilities during successful flight demonstrations in real land and maritime scenarios. In this context, CAE-Aviation and HENSOLDT recently participated jointly in the OCEAN 2020 maritime surveillance exercise in Sweden with the PrecISR radar installed on CAE-Aviation's aircraft. Ocean 2020 Ocean2020 (Open Cooperation for European mAritime awareNess), funded by the European Union's Preparatory Action on Defence Research and implemented by the European Defence Agency, had the main objective to demonstrate enhanced situational awareness in a maritime environment through the integration of legacy and new technologies for unmanned systems, ISTAR payloads, and effectors, by covering the “observing, orienting, deciding and acting” operational tasks. HENSOLDT and CAE Aviation agreed upon a strategic partnership signed an agreement aiming at joint development The team involving 43 entities was drawn from 15 countries across Europe. These activities culminated in demonstrations in the Mediterranean and Baltic seas contributing to the EU´s ability to lead innovation in support of Europe´s strategic autonomy in the maritime domain. Strategic agreement At the same time, HENSOLDT and CAE Aviation agreed upon a strategic partnership. They signed an agreement aiming at joint development of customer-specific capabilities, training and maintenance, and marketing of the PrecISR product. High-performance sensor technology PrecISR translates the latest achievements in an active array and digital receiver technology into a scalable high-performance sensor that can be installed aboard helicopters, UAVs, and fixed-wing mission aircraft. Due to its software-defined radar modes and electronic beam steering, PrecISR can fulfil different tasks virtually at the same time. It can detect, track and classify thousands of objects and thus literally find the ‘needle in a haystack. Because of its compact design and the fact that all parts are located outside of the airframe, the airborne platform integration of PrecISR is simplified significantly compared to other radars. Its superior precision and target accuracy make it the sensor of choice for surveillance of large sea and coastal areas against piracy, trafficking, or illicit intrusion.

Videoloft is bolstering its presence in the United States by hiring new U.S.-based sales staff and integrating with established brands in the US market, including Digital Watchdog, exacqVision, Vivotek, and Lorex.  Cloud surveillance systems Videoloft focuses on transforming traditional professional surveillance systems into cloud-connected solutions via the Videoloft Cloud Adapter. The company was born from the innovative technology created for the Manything app in 2012, which turned old smartphones and tablets into ad-hoc DIY home-monitoring cloud cameras, and now boasts over 1 million+ user. Cost-effective cloud solution The versatile and highly cost-effective Videoloft cloud solution can serve either as a backup to local recorders or as a primary recording method, sending video footage direct to the cloud at up to 8MP resolution. Videoloft end-users have remote access to its cloud video surveillance system via the Videoloft mobile app or web-based VMS The solution employs rigid security protocols to ensure all video is transmitted and stored securely in the Videoloft cloud, which is hosted on Amazon's AWS. Videoloft end-users have remote access to their cloud video surveillance system from anywhere and at any time via the Videoloft mobile app or web-based VMS. It makes security systems highly proactive and personalised and instantly upgrades legacy systems with new features.  Remotely installed Videoloft’s partner pricing is extremely competitive and is approximately 8 to 10 times less expensive than other cloud providers. The platform is compatible with leading brands, has an impressive feature set including video analytics and remote installation, as well as a proven ability to send video to the cloud over real-world uplink speeds. VSaaS solution Selling predominantly via the channel, Videoloft’s cloud-based VSaaS solution is rapidly being adopted by professional security dealers and systems integrators who add the Videoloft cloud to their customers’ surveillance systems. The solution is being used with exceptional results by a wide variety of users ranging from homeowners to restaurant chains, and healthcare facilities to cannabis growers and dispensaries.   Available versions Videoloft offers two white label versions of their platform, with over 150+ white label solutions already deployed by national distributors and integrators. Videoloft users span 160+ countries and generate the equivalent of 25 years of video monitored by the Videoloft cloud every day.

Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the independent forecourt operator, has entrusted Wisenet cameras manufactured by Hanwha Techwin to help protect its major investment in electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs. With the sales of electric vehicles growing, MFG is accelerating its plans to offer the ultra-rapid, electric vehicle (EV) charging bays – up to 12 charging bays at each location - across its 900+ station network. Identifying damage via VMS Dedicated Wisenet video surveillance systems are being installed to deter and detect vandals, as well as maximise the customer experience by helping MFG personnel to quickly identify if any charging equipment has been damaged. Andrew Edwards, group infrastructure director at MFG, said, “Reflecting the wish of many drivers to own eco-friendly vehicles, we expect the sales of EVs to continue to rapidly increase year-on-year, which is why we have made a commitment to lead the market with the provision of fast, clean and 100% renewable energy.” AGE CCTV The contract to install the Wisenet systems was awarded to AGE CCTV, a division of AGE Electrical Services Ltd. “We have been installing new video surveillance solutions and upgrading existing systems at MFG forecourts for over 15 years. In all cases, we have used Wisenet cameras in line with MFG’s decision to single source cameras and recording devices from Hanwha Techwin,” said Jason Gargiulo, Managing Director of AGE CCTV. “It was just a simple matter therefore of working with Hanwha Techwin’s pre-sales and technical teams in order to specify which Wisenet camera from the company’s extensive range, would best assist MFG personnel to observe close up detail of any activity occurring at their EV charging hubs.” 5-megapixel images The QNO-8080R is a true day/night camera, equipped with built-in IR illuminators which enables to capture superb quality images  Depending on the number of charging bays at each location, AGE CCTV has installed one or more 5-megapixel Wisenet QNO-8080R bullet cameras. The QNO-8080R is a true day/night camera, equipped with built-in IR illuminators which enable it to capture superb quality images regardless of the lighting conditions. It also benefits from enhanced Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) which performs at up to 120dB to produce clear images from scenes containing a challenging mix of bright and dark areas which normally results in overexposed or underexposed images. Remote access With many MFG (EV) charging sites being unmanned, authorised MFG personnel are able at any time to remotely access the live images captured by the H.265 Wisenet QNO-8080R cameras or retrieve the recorded video of any incidents. They can do so from a desktop PC or laptop by using Hanwha Techwin’s management software or conveniently via their smartphones or tablets using the Wisenet mobile app. Complementary compression technology The images are transmitted over 4 G technologies and in this respect; the WiseStream II complementary compression technology built into the QNO-8080R is proving to be a significant benefit. Bandwidth efficiency is improved by up to 75% compared to current H.264 technology when WiseStream II is combined with H.265 compression. As a forward-looking company, MFG has never hesitated to invest in the latest technology to ensure its people, property and assets are kept safe and that they provide the highest quality of service to the customers. MFG’s Andrew Edwards concluded, “We are delighted with how AGE CCTV and Hanwha Techwin are continuing to work in partnership to help us achieve these objectives.”

A subway system serving Southeast Asia needed to modernise from its aging analog CCTV system to new IP. The subway system includes over 150 stations connected by 135 miles of rail; facilitating over 5 million commuter trips on an average weekday. The passengers have come to expect a high level of quality and reliability as the transit system is one of the most reliable in the world; consistently achieving a 99.9% on-time rate. However, it was becoming increasingly complex and difficult to manage passenger security and safety within a transportation network of this incredible size, especially while relying on outdated surveillance technology. The existing analog CCTV surveillance equipment was approaching end-of-life and the organisation wanted to modernise security in their rapid transit subway stations. The organisation decided to modernise to an IP security system, which would provide enhanced capabilities and higher resolution security footage. Infrastructure barriers One of the company’s core strategies is to continuously upgrade its services to meet the needs of its customers. However, the organisation was facing several infrastructure barriers as they planned their upgrade to IP security. Traditional LAN design philosophies would involve ripping and replacing the existing Coax-based infrastructure to support the new IP cameras, leading to concerns of high project costs, long deployment times, and a harsh environmental impact. The organisation was unsatisfied with this approach and required an innovative solution. Change the conversation; improve the outcome The organisation leveraged its existing Coax-based infrastructure using the CLEER24 long-reach PoE solution Due to the organisation's needs, the distributor was confident in recommending Modern LAN design philosophies and the NVT Phybridge CLEER24 PoE solution. Developed by Frost & Sullivan, Modern LAN principles provide new best practices for connecting IP endpoints as organisations expand their network to incorporate IoT devices. Principle #1 suggests designing the LAN using the “outside-in” approach by first identifying the endpoint characteristics to determine the best-supporting infrastructure. Another principle is to consider new Power over Ethernet innovations to support IoT initiatives and simplify LAN design/requirements. By applying these principles, the organisation determined that they could leverage their existing and proven Coax-based infrastructure using the CLEER24 long-reach PoE solution. CLEER24 switch The customer was excited about the new solution but wanted to test the capabilities in their environment. NVT Phybridge assisted the customer in organising a no-obligation proof of concept. After a few simple setup steps, the CLEER24 switch transformed the existing Coax-based infrastructure into a robust and reliable IP backbone for the new surveillance system. The customer was also pleased with the ability to connect IP devices up to 6,000ft (1,830m) away from the application using existing infrastructure – with zero IDF closets required along the way. Environmental responsibility Protecting the natural environment is an important core value of the organisation, as they aim to become one of the most resource-efficient and ecologically sustainable railway companies in the world. The organisation has implemented LEED green building standards and continuously strives to reduce energy and resource consumption in all railway operations. Aligned with their existing sustainability programs, Modern LAN design helped the organisation: Reuse their existing physical infrastructure; which prevented over 10 US tons (20,000 pounds) of Coax cable from ending up in a landfill Avoid extensive construction and renovation work; reducing material and energy consumption Eliminate the need to install additional IDF closets thanks to the CLEER24’s long reach capabilities; reducing ongoing energy consumption Reduce the deployment time by 9 months; ensuring minimal disruption to passengers Using an innovative analytical tool to measure environmental impact, the subway system received the highest rating, 5 stars, for their environmentally responsible modernisation to IP. A better return on investment The customer took a proactive approach to support their IP modernisation objectives in a responsible manner The customer took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their IP modernisation objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner. By applying Modern LAN principles and leveraging innovative switch technology, the organisation was able to: Reduce infrastructure costs by more than $500,000 Deploy over 500 new IP cameras with no disruption to passengers Prevent over 10 US tons (20,000 pounds) of cabling e-waste from entering a landfill Reduce the overall deployment time by 9 months Simplify deployment and ongoing network management Build a cyber-secure and robust IP platform for their new security solution

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are an important vertical sector in the physical security market. Protecting healthcare facilities is a rich opportunity to leverage the value of physical security systems that range from video to access control to newer location and asset protection systems. But understanding how technology can excel in the healthcare vertical requires that we first identify and understand what these institutions need. Therefore, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the physical security challenges of hospitals and healthcare?