Indoor surveillance

MOBOTIX has announced the launch of MOBOTIX MOVE, a video surveillance camera family that supplements its current portfolio allowing end customers to benefit from additional features to meet a wider range of indoor and outdoor use cases. Customers can now obtain MOBOTIX MOVE products as they provide standards-based technology as well as products with unique MOBOTIX features from a single trusted source backed by industry leading quality and reliability. Supporting ONVIF S and G profiles The new MOBOTIX MOVE series are the first MOBOTIX cameras to support both the ONVIF S and G profiles with video streaming at 3 and 4 MP resolutions up to 30 frames per second. Available in 4 models including bullet, vandal proof bullet and fixed dome and two speed domes; all models are PoE powered and IP66/IK10 rated for flexible deployment. “MOBOTIX MOVE is a recognition that we need to bring the same level of MOBOTIX expertise to a wider range of projects that have a specific requirement,” explains Thomas Lausten, Chief Executive Officer of MOBOTIX. “We listened to our global customers and integrators and created a new product family that delivers standards-based features while retaining the build quality, reliability and innovation that MOBOTIX is renowned for within the security and access control market.” MOBOTIX MOVE is also the first MOBOTIX camera range with motorised varifocal lenses MOBOTIX MOVE features ONVIF support MOBOTIX MOVE is also the first MOBOTIX camera range with motorised varifocal lenses, high speed mechanical Pan-Tilt-Zoom, Speed Domes and Wide Dynamic Range sensors at up to 4MP resolution. The built-in software offers Smart Event functions, remote zoom and focus plus iris control on Autofocus Lens. Each device includes a built-in SD card slot and certain models have integrated IR LED illumination. The true day/night feature with integrated movable IR cut filter technology provides colour images at day time and monochrome infrared sensitive images at night. With full ONVIF support, MOBOTIX MOVE cameras can natively support the widest range of video management software and NVR devices including PTZ control, audio, multicasting and relay outputs. Integrated web GUI “With the addition of MOBOTIX MOVE, our customers now have more choice without compromising on quality,” says Lausten, “All MOBOTIX MOVE products are specified and tested by MOBOTIX in Germany and manufactured under supervision. Our customers can be sure that we won’t lose our product DNA and all MOBOTIX MOVE branded devices are delivered and supported according to the same high-quality standards our customers expect,” Lausten adds. All MOBOTIX MOVE devices can be controlled via integrated web GUI using PC based browsers and will also be natively supported in the upcoming 2.0 version of MOBOTIX Management Center due for release in Q4 of 2018. MOBOTIX MOVE will be available from MOBOTIX distributors at the end of July and will be supported by technical training events for registered partners.

Hikvision, global supplier of innovative video surveillance products and solutions, is pleased to announce that it has won the bronze Protector & Wik award in the Video Surveillance category. The accolade was bestowed upon its DeepinView Indoor Dual-Lens People Counting camera (iDS-2CD6810F/C). The award is judged by the readers of the magazine and its website, making this a ‘people’s choice’ success. DeepinView Indoor Dual-Lens People Counting camera Hikvision’s People Counting camera serves critical functions in the security apparatus of crowd-centric applications. It can record the number of people who pass through an entrance and monitors crowd density. Loitering detection can be used to keep visitor traffic flowing and the camera’s alarm triggering function can prevent injuries. Data from the camera can be used to create reports analysing customer activity and build revenue. Anywhere there’s a crowd – tourist areas, train stations, sports venues, shopping areas, museums and more – this camera helps improve profits while protecting individuals. Allen Xue, Hikvision’s Area Sales Manager DACH, says: “We are thrilled to receive this award as we are constantly striving to develop products that are high quality and innovative. Based on deep learning technology, our DeepinView camera will provide more structured and useful information for the application system, so our customers and users get the very best experience along with reliable security and peace of mind. It’s nice to be recognised for our hard work.”

MOBOTIX is expanding its management team to include two new members. Following a successful restructuring, MOBOTIX is paving the way for sustainable growth with its new members, both experienced industry experts: Christiane Kampling will now serve as Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications and Hartmut Sprave as Chief Technical Officer. Both started with the company on June 1st, 2018. Christiane Kampling is taking over as Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at MOBOTIX. She has held similar positions over the past few years at Covestro, Xchanging Continental Europe, and ING Investment Management. Kampling was also able to gather valuable insights as Marketing Director at Dell. In these positions, Kampling, who holds a degree in business, was responsible for business opportunities and implementing entire marketing strategies (B2B and B2C). She was also in charge of developing new go-to-market models for SMEs and end users as well as building business opportunities through strategic partnerships and cooperations. In addition, Kampling managed the media, PR, and advertising agencies as well as events and roadshows. Digital video technology expert As member of the Management Board and new Chief Technical Officer of the Technology Department, Hartmut Sprave is responsible for hardware, software, product management, quality management and strategic innovation at MOBOTIX. Sprave, who holds a degree in physics, previously served as Vice President Software at Loewe Technologies GmbH, where he was responsible for software development at numerous sites in Germany and abroad. As co-founder and CTO of MacroSystem Digital Video GmbH, he gained extensive experience in the area of digital video technology. “Christiane Kampling and Hartmut Sprave are both highly qualified experts, and we are pleased to welcome them to the MOBOTIX team,” says Thomas Lausten, Chief Executive Officer at MOBOTIX. “With our strong new Management Team, we are perfectly prepared for any upcoming challenge.”

Johnson Controls is announcing two new camera models to the Illustra Pro line, with the Pro Compact Mini-Domes in 2MP and 3MP resolution, ideal for applications such as retail stores, healthcare facilities and banks where low profile and aesthetics are important. The Illustra 2MP and 3MP Pro Compact Mini-Domes are equipped with various viewing angles including corridor mode, a 9x16 field of view aspect ratio for vertically oriented scenes, which is optimal for hallways, aisles or any area where a landscape format is not ideal. Illustra IntelliZip compression technology Rated both IP66 and IP67 for environmental protection as well as IK10 for vandal resistance, the Pro Compact Mini-Domes can be installed indoors and outdoors for a truly versatile solution. The Pro Compact Mini-Domes also feature Illustra IntelliZip compression technology that monitors and adjusts system streaming parameters to match the level of activity in the camera’s field of view. IntelliZip automatically adjusts the video encoder configuration to ensure every detail within the region of interest is captured clearly, minimising video and storage needs. Advanced VideoEdge TrickleStor technology enables edge based video recording, even in an outage. The camera will automatically detect network interruptions and starts to record video to its SD card followed by a seamlessly video transfer to the NVR’s hard drive once the network connection is reestablished.

Oncam, a provider of 360-degree video capture and business intelligence technology, announced it was honoured with two awards for its innovative products: Most Innovative Online Solution from the 2018 North American Fraud Awards alongside its partners at Video Analysis Solutions (VAS) and a 2018 Money-Saving Products Award from BUILDINGS Magazine for its new Evolution 180 Indoor Camera. The recognitions demonstrate the company's continued dedication to innovation and the development of technology to address today's greatest security and business challenges. At the 2018 North American Retail Fraud Awards dinner in May, Oncam and its partner VAS were recognized by Retail Risk for their retail-centric Cloud Searching Dashboard. Oncam and VAS have created a powerful and user-friendly analytics tool that leverages Oncam's high-quality 360-degree video and intuitive VAS analytics to allow store managers and staff to securely log in and view live or recorded images, as well as monitor customer behaviour and provide details on store traffic. The solution offers significant ROI by optimizing store operations, improving customer service and growing sales. The Evolution 180 range uses a 12MP sensor for high-resolution panoramic video Evolution 180 Indoor Camera The Evolution 180 Indoor Camera was recognized in the June 2018 issue of BUILDINGS Magazine for the features it provides building owners and facility managers for life safety and security. The Evolution 180 range uses a 12MP sensor for high-resolution panoramic video. Oncam’s unique Angle Compensation Technology provides adaptive dewarping in the camera, eliminating the need for integration in video management software. The camera is ONVIF Profile S compliant, making it plug-and-play with the leading video management systems on the market today. “Oncam provides innovation in the products we create, but more than that, our close collaboration with other technology leaders allows us to create solutions that enhance the abilities of our video capture tools to provide valuable insight to end users,” said Jumbi Edulbehram, Regional President – Americas, Oncam. “These awards are an acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of our team and we're honored to be recognized.” Oncam will showcase its award-winning technology during IFSEC International 2018.

From mid-June 2018 on, MOBOTIX will offer its second generation Mx6 camera line with integrated MxBus functionality (camera types x16B/x26B). The MxBus technology is based on an extended camera board. This two-wire cable system developed by MOBOTIX is encrypted against cyberattacks and expands camera functions by including practical additional MOBOTIX modules such as the MX-GPS-Box, a reliable time server for a complete video system. Within a MOBOTIX video system, Mx6 cameras without MxBus can also process and use the data from an MxBus module that is connected to a camera within the same network. For example, they can access the time signal from a GPS-Box or activate their own recording through MxMultiSense modules placed at the ceiling of a room via MxMessageSystem. Reusable first-generation system components The new x16B/x26B models feature the same exterior structures as the corresponding first-generation Mx6 cameras. This means that all of the sensor modules, mounts and system components that they contain can also be used for the latest generation of MOBOTIX cameras. All first-generation Mx6 camera models (x16A/x26A) are also available as corresponding second-generation camera models with MxBus (x16B/x26B). In order to use the MxBus functionality with the Indoor cameras c26B, i26B, p26B and v26B, as well as to add two additional inputs and two outputs to the camera, an additional MxIOBoard-IC is required. A corresponding T26B successor for the T25 Door Station camera is planned for release by the end of Q3/2018.

Audio is often overlooked in the security and video surveillance industry. There are some intercom installations where audio plays a key role, but it’s not typically thought about when it comes to security and event management. Audio takes a back seat in many security systems because audio captured from a surveillance camera can have a different impact on the privacy of those being monitored. Audio surveillance is therefore subject to strict laws that vary from state to state. Many states require a clearly posted sign indicating audio recording is taking place in an area before a person enters. Analytic information derived from audio can be a useful tool and when implemented correctly, removes any concerns over privacy or legal compliance. Audio analytics on the edge overcomes legal challenges as it never passes audio outside of the camera Focused responses to events Audio analytics processed in the camera, has been a niche and specialised area for many installers and end users. This could be due to state laws governing audio recording, however, audio analytics on the edge overcomes legal challenges as it never passes audio outside of the camera Processing audio analytics in-camera provides excellent privacy since audio data is analysed internally with a set of algorithms that only compare and assess the audio content. Processing audio analytics on the edge also reduces latency compared with any system that needs to send the raw audio to an on-premises or cloud server for analysis. Audio analytics can quickly pinpoint zones that security staff should focus on, which can dramatically shorten response times to incidents. Audio-derived data also provides a secondary layer of verification that an event is taking place which can help prioritise responses from police and emergency personnel. Having a SoC allows a manufacturer to reserve space for specialised features, and for audio analytics, a database of reference sounds is needed for comparison Microphones and algorithms Many IP-based cameras have small microphones embedded in the housing while some have a jack for connecting external microphones to the camera. Microphones on indoor cameras work well since the housing allows for a small hole to permit sound waves to reach the microphone. Outdoor cameras that are IP66 certified against water and dust ingress will typically have less sensitivity since the microphone is not exposed. In cases like these, an outdoor microphone, strategically placed, can significantly improve outdoor analytic accuracy. There are several companies that make excellent directional microphones for outdoor use, some of which can also combat wind noise. Any high-quality external microphone should easily outperform a camera’s internal microphone in terms of analytic accuracy, so it is worth considering in areas where audio information gathering is deemed most important. In-built audio-video analytics Surveillance cameras with a dedicated SoC (System on Chip) have become available in recent years with in-built video and audio analytics that can detect and classify audio events and send alerts to staff and emergency for sounds such as gunshots, screams, glass breaks and explosions. Having a SoC allows a manufacturer to reserve space for specialised features. For audio analytics, a database of reference sounds is needed for comparison. The camera extracts the characteristics of the audio source collected using the camera's internal or externally connected microphone and calculates its likelihood based on the pre-defined database. If a match is found for a known sound, e.g., gunshot, explosion, glass break, or scream, an event is triggered, and the message is passed to the VMS. If a match is found for a known sound, e.g., gunshot, explosion, glass break, or scream, an event is triggered, and the message is passed to the VMS Configuring a camera for audio analytics Audio detectionThe first job of a well-configured camera or camera/mic pair is to detect sounds of interest while rejecting ancillary sounds and noise below a preset threshold. Each camera must be custom configured for its particular environment to detect audio levels which exceed a user-defined level. Since audio levels are typically greater in abnormal situations, any audio levels exceeding the baseline set levels are detected as being a potential security event. Operators can be notified of any abnormal situations via event signals allowing the operator to take suitable measures. Finding a baseline of background noise and setting an appropriate threshold level is the first step. Installers should be able to enable or disable the noise reduction function and view the results to validate the optimum configuration during setup Noise reductionA simple threshold level may not be adequate enough to reduce false alarms depending on the environment where a camera or microphone is installed. Noise reduction is a feature on cameras that can reduce background noise greater than 55dB-65dB for increased detection accuracy. Installers should be able to enable or disable the noise reduction function and view the results to validate the optimum configuration during setup. With noise reduction enabled, the system analyses the attenuated audio source. As such, the audio source classification performance may be hindered or generate errors, so it is important to use noise reduction technology sparingly. Audio source classificationIt’s important to supply the analytic algorithm with a good audio level and a high signal-to-noise ratio to reduce the chance of generating false alarms under normal circumstances. Installers should experiment with ideal placement for both video as well as audio. While a ceiling corner might seem an ideal location for a camera, it might also cause background audio noise to be artificially amplified. Many cameras provide a graph which visualises audio source levels to allow for the intuitive checking of noise cancellation and detection levels. Analytics take privacy concerns out of the equation and allow installers and end users to use camera audio responsibly Messages and eventsIt’s important to choose a VMS that has correctly integrated the camera’s API (application programming interface) in order to receive comprehensive audio analytic events that include the classification ID (explosion, glass break, gunshot, scream). A standard VMS that only supports generic alarms, may not be able to resolve all of the information. More advanced VMS solutions can identify different messages from the camera. Well configured audio analytics can deliver critical information about a security event, accelerating response times and providing timely details beyond video-only surveillance. Analytics take privacy concerns out of the equation and allow installers and end users to use camera audio responsibly. Hanwha Techwin's audio source classification technology, available in its X Series cameras, features three customisable settings for category, noise cancellation and detection level for optimum performance in a variety of installation environments.

Increasing the quality of illumination with LED can help deter crime and improve the accuracy of video analytics One of the greatest challenges that indoor and outdoor security surveillance solutions face is lack of light. However, obtaining the proper amount of illumination for security goes beyond merely flooding a specific area with light. Without an adequate lighting source, video cameras are ineffective. When capturing only dark, blurry images and video, they can quickly become worthless to security staff or law enforcement personnel. On the other hand, too much of the wrong type of light can create issues like ‘hot spots’ and overheating, which can diminish crucial details and eventually cause irreversible camera damage. Fortunately, there has been a recent global shift that is sending users away from the old incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, and toward LED lighting. Regardless of the type of CCTV application, there are an abundance of reasons to stop using alternative types of illumination. Here are 3 of the most substantial. 1. Better illumination and clarity You would think it would be common knowledge by now that cameras need light to see, and well-lit areas provide less cover for criminals to commit crimes. However, it is still somewhat commonplace to have sites where either not enough lighting or the wrong kind of lighting is implemented. Increasing the quality of illumination in an area has the ability to deter crime, make other accompanying safety devices perform better and even improve the accuracy of video analytics. LED lamps are currently the only security lighting option that possesses a multitude of point sources, making it possible to  aim your light Integrators need a lighting solution that consistently performs, and when it comes to supplying the best operation, price, and durability; external LED lighting is the only choice. One particular aspect of external LED lighting that makes optimum illumination possible is the strategic uniformity of its design. External LED lamps are currently the only security lighting option that possesses a multitude of point sources, making it possible to literally aim your light by situating individual diodes in a specific angle or position. This type of alignment offers a more consistent and predictable light source than anything else on the market, eliminating much of the uncertainty involved in installation. This allows you to light a larger area more effectively and efficiently with nearly zero effort. 2. Faster start-up time Whether you are talking about protecting a utilities facility, school campus or international border, it doesn’t take long for an incident to occur. Unlike traditional HID (high intensity discharge) lights, which can take up to a half an hour to reach full competency, LED’s spark up immediately. The colder the climate of the area, the more difficulty the HID bulbs have getting started and functioning properly. Given that there are many places in the United States alone where temperatures can sit at or below single digits, it seems almost absurd to consider anything else besides LED lighting. This sizable flaw can be especially detrimental if attempting to set up any kind of crime deterring, motion detection solution. One of the most crucial components of a sufficient response system is reaction time. Having a sluggish start up regarding any component is much like having a 15 year-old guard dog laying in your yard. By the time the security lights get up and running, the offender has already committed the crime and vacated the premises. And as dependable as the old boy may have been in the years past, he is now just too darn slow. And with an industry that is quickly moving toward more effective real-time, situational security solutions, a hesitated response is the last thing desired. Unlike traditional HID lights, which can take up to a half an hour to reach full competency, LED’s spark up immediately 3. Increased life span and efficiency Organisations have the opportunity to save thousands of dollars each year in energy costs, whilst increasing site security by switching to LED based illuminators. LED’s provide the lowest running cost currently available, with less than 100 watts needed for the most powerful of units. Not to mention, the majority of additional wattage needed for other types of lighting units is generally burned off in the form of unwanted heat, decreasing both quality and length of life. How much longer LED’s lasts when compared to the alternative is astounding. For example, the average life span of an incandescent bulb is about 1,000 hours; fluorescent bulbs last for around 10,000 hours, while LED’s can shine bright up an impressive 100,000 hours. That is 100 times longer without changing a bulb. Furthermore, installing LED’s not only saves money in the form of lower energy and running costs, but also provides a very low rate of bulb malfunction or failure. This cuts down on maintenance fees as well as possible down time that could result in vulnerability. Inspections and servicing of lights alone can be very expensive and time consuming. LED’s radiate much less heat, reducing the chance of insect complications and helping prevent hot spot development, again saving you time, money and frustration at every camera site. Enhancing overall security solution As time goes on, the importance of strategic lighting becomes more and more evident for the security industry. The continual growth of technologically advanced video solutions (biometrics, crowd detection, motion tracking, etc.) demands a level of clarity and consistency that can only obtained through proper lighting. LED’s not only yield a lower running cost and better performance, they provide an enhanced level of control. The most important benefit of a security tool is not always how it performs independently, but how it increases the effectiveness of the overall security solution it is a part of.

Pressure from online shopping is making it even more critical for brick and mortar stores to maximise the revenue per visit Analytics is trending hot for both video and data. The problem for many security video acquisition products is the old adage:  bad data in, results in bad data output. The acquisition device has to be able to deliver on the promise to the end user and perform in challenging environments. What products, with what capabilities, are changing the video analytics game today? Imagine a customer entered your store and invested an hour of their time carefully choosing merchandise with a total value of $250. However, after waiting 15 minutes in the check-out line, frustrated and annoyed by the wait, they abandoned their cart leaving the store very unsatisfied. Unfortunately, retailers face these types of challenges with customer experience and conversion every day. Measuring retail store success Pressure from online shopping is making it even more critical for brick and mortar stores to maximise the revenue per visit from every shopper. Brick and mortar retailers spend millions in advertising to entice customers to visit their stores. Once a customer enters a store, the retailers’ number one goal is to provide the best shopping experience, resulting in high conversion rates, as well as high average sales per shopper. Once a customer enters a store, the retailers’ number one goal is to provide the best shopping experience, resulting in high conversion rates The conversion rate—how many people made a purchase vs. how many people entered the store—is how many retailers measure and compensate their store managers. They also use people counting data to measure the effectiveness of expensive advertising campaigns.  Achieving accurate data is critical for these and many other decisions that directly affect competitiveness and profitability.  Many retailers are now measuring their stores’ performance on size of basket and complementary product sales. If you bought shoes, did you buy socks? If you bought a printer, did you buy extra cartridges, paper and office supplies? Did you purchase items at the checkout counter? Upsells and complementary purchases increase markedly as a result of good customer/employee experiences. Queue time tracking is so accurate today that it can tell you precisely how long a specific person has waited in line The rise of analytics Human-based analytics probably started in the early 1700s when shopkeepers began installing bells on their entrance doors to hear (and count) customers entering and leaving their shop. Acquiring retail shopping data has been around a long, long time, and it is now becoming quite sophisticated. Queue time tracking is so accurate today that it can tell you precisely how long a specific person has waited in line. If wait times exceed a store’s policy, an alert can be sent real time to store management allowing them to react quickly by opening additional check-out lines. Or, how does the customer service experience look now if after five minutes in line a mobile teller greets you and offers to check you out? Not only did the store achieve the sale but the customer service experience is one that assures a good customer rating and a likely returning, loyal customer. Video acquisition devices Transactional data is accurate because it’s tied to core operations of the retailer. Where the data gets fuzzy is in transforming a physical act, capturing it with a device, and turning that into data. So, the data is only as good as the acquisition device. The hard reality is that at a lower level of accuracy, the data means nothing and the reports are worth nothing. Store managers and other analysts can filter and mash-up people data and POS data against a set of rules to create and uncover never-before available insights In recent years, the barriers to successful data acquisition and analysis have been lowered. One such area is the innovation of video acquisition devices. Here, new technology has been developed that delivers unprecedented accuracy in tracking human figures in a store. The ubiquity of smart phones and WiFi makes new data collection increasingly possible. After the customer enters the store, they can be tracked—where did they go, for how long, where did they go first, at what point did they abandon the store, and of course what was purchased? Rapid advances in data acquisition technology like Time of Flight sensors are also improving the reliability of the data collected by these devices. Now, store managers and other analysts can filter and mash-up people data and POS data against a set of rules to create and uncover never-before available insights as to how to achieve set goals, shining a light on previously dark data, resulting in greater sales and profitability. The brick and mortar retail world is moving toward acquiring the same data as for the online shopping experience Best video analytics technology What are these new innovative technologies designed to facilitate better acquisition of accurate, non-transactional data? Three manufacturers innovating at the “Best” level of technology include:  RetailNext, Brickstream and 3xLOGIC: RetailNext: The first technology platform to bring e-commerce style shopper analytics to brick-and-mortar stores, brands and malls, RetailNext is a pioneer in focusing entirely on optimising the shopper experience. RetailNext’s Traffic 2.0 platform goes beyond basic traffic counting by leveraging data from WiFi enabled smartphones, providing powerful insights such as visit duration, unique traffic, pass-by traffic, visit frequency, and entrance path analytics. Additional capabilities include: True traffic measurement – Automatically excludes store staff from traffic and key KPI metrics. Isolates employee paths to create complete interaction analysis of shoppers and sales associates. Optimise staff – Identifies traffic cycles across the day, week, or year. Aligns staff and customer-to-staff ratio to traffic power hours by integrating workforce management with traffic data. Brickstream (now owned by FLIR): Brickstream’s line of 3D stereo vision sensors provides highly accurate, anonymous information about how people move into, around, and out of physical places. Using people counting and tracking metrics, retailers can identify and capitalise on opportunities to increase sales, grow margins, enhance customer experience and loyalty through improved service, optimise in-store marketing initiatives, and rapidly implement operational improvements at individual locations, regionally or across the entire chain. 3xLOGIC: 3xLOGIC’s Time of Flight (ToF) device is a special purpose, smart people tracker designed specifically for queue management and people counting. Combining 3D imaging technology with intelligent video analytics, this device uses a state-of-the-art infrared sensor and specially designed lenses to improve measurement accuracy when compared to the current generation of thermal and stereoscopic cameras. One of the most advanced systems available in the marketplace today, this device achieves excellent performance even in the most challenging lighting conditions or when one object is partially obscured by another. The device also supports Stationary Queue Measurement (no object movement is necessary for maintaining tracking). The analytics boat is leaving the dock, never to return. The brick and mortar retail world has left behind manual reports and secret shoppers, and is moving toward acquiring the same data as for the online shopping experience. Where to begin? Reliable data acquisition devices. If your retail operation is not on board, you will be left behind, and that quite possibly will result in a fatal competitive blow. Save Save

Axis Communications, the global provider of intelligent surveillance technology, yesterday held the official launch of the new Axis Experience Centre in Luton. The event was a chance for Axis’ partners to meet with the senior management team and explore how the new centre operates, all the while celebrating the company’s 20th anniversary over a glass of champagne. The centre was officially opened by Axis Communications co-founder Martin Gren, along with Bodil Sonesson, the company’s VP of Global Sales. The toast was led by Atul Rajput, Regional Director, Northern Europe. As one of Axis’ first ever employees, Rajput was particularly well placed to thank partners for their collaboration over the last twenty years. As celebrations continued, SourceSecurity.com was lucky enough to join Axis’ partners in a tour of the new facility. Exploring the Axis Experience Centre What immediately became apparent was that this was no ordinary showroom. In contrast to open-space demonstration rooms traditionally favoured by the security industry, the Experience Centre takes end users on a flowing tour where they can experience Axis solutions in a variety of environments simulating real-world problems. The tour typically takes two hours, and is designed for small groups of people to allow in-depth discussion of the difficulties end users are facing. Atul Rajput (Regional Director, Northern Europe), Bodil Sonesson (VP, Global Sales) & Axis Communications co-founder Martin Gren officially open the Experience Centre Axis open platform solutions One highlight of the experience is the AXIS Camera Application Platform (ACAP), which allows partners to solve specific customer problems by downloading third-party applications to Axis IP cameras and encoders. Typical end user problems highlighted by the tour include queue management, people counting and intrusion detection. The solutions are all fully interactive – on passing through a gateway, an audio alert notifies participants that they are trespassing, while three participants standing in a given space can trigger air conditioning and ambient audio. The most immersive part of the experience is the ‘dark room’, which simulates all kinds of challenging lighting conditions including the intense backlight that may be experienced at a building entrance or window. On leaving the room, participants are shown how Axis’ WDR cameras capture extremely detailed images despite the challenging illumination. Other highlights include the networking centre, which demonstrates Axis hardware and third-party switches, and the VMS control room, which features a new user interface and can be integrated with intercoms, speakers, and access control systems. Smart solutions for businesses and cities The overriding theme of all areas of the tour is the emphasis on applications, not products. Rather than being directed to a particular product to suit a given vertical market, end users and installers are encouraged to discuss the real-world challenges they face, and explore how Axis solutions could work for them. In this way, enterprises, small-to-medium businesses and Smart City providers can all be catered for. The concept is already proving successful – over the last month, the facility has been in use every day!

A gunshot localisation solution can turn a video camera system into a real-time safety system in the event of an active shooter. Called ShotPoint, the system is completely automated. Working with a video management system (VMS), it can enable a video image of an active shooter to be provided in seconds based on the location of a gunshot. “For responders, the police department doesn’t have to manage cameras, but has the instant availability of a camera feed,” says Kathleen Griggs, President of Databuoy, which supplies ShotPoint. “All the cameras are available and cued only in an emergency.” ShotPoint is a network of sensors which can be mounted on walls, ceilings, street light poles or other indoor or outdoor locations. Using a “sensor mesh approach,” ShotPoint reliably detects and localises the source of gunfire; ranging from small handguns to high calibre rifles. The system can cover large indoor or outdoor areas such as schools, office buildings, retail centers, campuses, and parks. Localising gunshots through acoustic channels Each sensor has an array of four acoustic channels (microphones) that can locate the source of a gunshot sound, the time of arrival and the time distance of arrival. ‘Hearing’ shots from several vantage points (using multiple sensors) enables the system to take into account the angle and time of the sound, which vary in different environments, thus accurately providing the location of the gunshot. A ‘fusion processor’ box (at the edge) listens to the various sensor nodes and computes the location of the gunshot, relative to a floorplan and/or based on global positioning system (GPS) location. In an outdoor location, additional information may also be inferred, such as the trajectory of the gunshot and/or the calibre of the firearm. An event might cue an integrated video management system to provide a picture of the shooter  to police and first responders Real-time computer analytics Unlike other gunshot detection systems, ShotPoint does not require human confirmation of the gunshot, and the alarm is provided instantaneously (in real time and automatically) based on computer analytics operating at the edge. Keeping analytics simple and focusing on one type of event (gunshot) allows computations to be done quickly. “It may not be a real-time system if it takes time to classify many types of sounds,” says Griggs. If a gunshot is detected, the ShotPoint system pushes a ‘shot report’ (including location and a time stamp) to a database in the cloud that sends the result instantly to any ‘subscriber,’ which could be a video system, a lock system, or an emergency notification app that provides a pre-configured message. For example, an event might cue an integrated video management system to provide a picture of the shooter immediately to police and first responders, thus providing vital situational awareness when time is critical. “The more severe the active shooter event, and the longer it takes to clear the victims, the more victims there are likely to be,” says Griggs. “Time equals lives and the sooner they can solve the problem, the more lives can be saved.” ShotPoint can also be used to cue an automatic lockdown system that controls wireless locks. ShotPoint applications Databuoy, which began as a contractor funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), developed the acoustic sensor technology for military applications, but then realised that it is more useful in static locations than in the on-the-move environment of the military. Looking to commercialise the technology, the company turned to applications in stationary sites such as office buildings or schools. A test installation of ShotPoint at Sandcreek Middle School in Ammon, Idaho, was recognised and awarded $75,000 by the U.S. Department of Justice. The system combines ShotPoint hardware with the school's existing camera systems to provide a live video feed to first responders in real time, thus enabling a fast, effective and coordinated response. ShotPoint reliably detects and localises the source of gunfire; ranging from small handguns to rifles A technology such as ShotPoint is also a tool to enable police instant access to an independent video system (such as one at a school or business) only in case of an emergency. If police has constant access to video from a private system, that video is subject to provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which in effect provides public access to the video. Sharing video only in emergency situations is not subject to FOIA requirements. Smart city security In addition to applications in schools and other institutions, ShotPoint is a useful option for security and public safety in a smart city environment; the sensors could be attached to street lighting in various neighborhoods. If there is a gunshot, the system would record it. “Gun activity in some areas is not currently being reported,” says Griggs. “If you integrate it with cameras, you have evidence right there to solve the case and catch the criminals.” She acknowledges the scenario is currently theoretical.   ShotPoint has received Safety Act Designation Protections by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The DHS assumes liability for a terrorist event at a location that uses specified anti-terrorism systems; in effect, the DHS has vetted the system and provides an incentive for its use (in the form of lower insurance costs). Griggs says the push notification system has a ReSTful API and is easy to integrate and install, incorporating network protocols.

Amid all the discussion of security integration and end-to-end solutions on the first day of IFSEC 2016 was an undercurrent of uncertainty. The international trade show opened at ExCel London just days before the historic "Brexit" vote, when Britons will decide whether to remain a part of the European union or to exit the politico-economic fusion of 28 member states. With the Brexit referendum this week, the polls are neck-and-neck, so the vote could go either way, hence the uncertainty. If "leave" wins the vote, what might it mean for business, including the security and video surveillance companies exhibiting at IFSEC? Brexit implications on security market For example, if Great Britain leaves the EU, might it increase costs of goods flowing throughout the larger European market? Would a distributor in Germany face new costs and/or more complex processes when sending equipment to Britain? EU laws would still apply during a two-year negotiation period if the UK votes to leave. Therefore, changes are unlikely to be immediate; however, long-term uncertainty can be bad for any market, whether it's the stock market, the currency market, or the security market. "Once you exit the EU, there may be different rules related to larger contracts," says Ivo Drent, Arecont Vision's Vice President of European Sales. "Suddenly a UK company quoting jobs in the EU will face a different climate." Manufacturers from other countries, including the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, would eventually need to renegotiate export contracts with the newly independent United Kingdom. Given a skilled labour shortage in the UK integrator market, might a "leave" vote also complicate the ability of companies to recruit candidates from neighbouring countries, and thus aggravate the problem? Dominant security themes at IFSEC Although Brexit was a topic of discussion at several IFSEC stands, there were plenty of other aspects of the security market to consider, too. Manufacturers here are enthusiastic and quick to tout their new products, although many of them were shown previously in the United States last spring at ISC West. However, they're new to the international visitors to IFSEC. Also, the themes of integration, end-to-end systems, and technology partnerships dominated discussions. New products at IFSEC 2016 If "leave" wins the vote, what might it mean for business, including the security and video surveillance companies exhibiting at IFSEC? Arecont Vision was among the companies introducing actual new products here, including the new SurroundVideo Omni Mini IP Dome Camera, a 2-, 6- or 10-megapixel all-in-one camera with two sensors that are remotely user-configurable and provide true day/night video suitable for indoor/outdoor use. The low-profile camera is useful in schools, retail and banking (ATM) applications. Its small size makes it less noticeable and unobtrusive, even in environments that are sensitive to aesthetics. It replicates many of the benefits of Arecont Vision's four-sensor SurroundVideo cameras in a smaller form factor and at lower cost. "It can replace multiple single-sensor cameras or pan-tilt-zooms (PTZs), and give coverage exactly where you want it," says Jeff Whitney, VP Marketing, Arecont Vision. "If you cover a wide area, you never lose situational awareness." An emphasis on solutions rather than single products is another theme you hear repeatedly this year at IFSEC. For example, the sensor company Optex is promoting its REDSCAN mini RLS-2020I, an indoor laser scan detector that provides a 20x20-meter vertical or horizontal detection area, as an adjunct to video analytics. The sensor helps to protect assets and equipment by creating an invisible laser wall that detects any intrusion. Combined with a video analytics system, the hardware can increase reliability and eliminate false alarms. Leveraging the two technologies creates a result that is greater than the sum of the parts. A demonstration at the stand involves a display of drink glasses and spirits (as might be seen at a bar after closing). A "laser wall" protects the display: Anyone who tries to touch a glass triggers an alarm. The alarm trigger is faster and more accurate than a video analytics approach - there is no delay as pixels are processed. The detection zone can be divided into four sections, with each linked to a PTZ preset that directs camera coverage where it is needed. Technology partnerships Technology partnerships are also making news. Milestone opened the show with a press conference announcing an agreement with Dell to introduce a range of "plug and play" solutions for the surveillance market. The solutions can support 8, 16, 26 and 48 cameras and come complete with Milestone Xprotect and Microsoft Embedded licenses. There will be more to see on the second day of the show, and possibly more Brexit discussion, too. The vote is on Thursday, the last day of the show.

A video surveillance solution manufactured by Tyco, the security products division of Johnson Controls and installed by Kings Secure Technologies, is helping deter and detect hate crime directed at worshippers who attend the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Bradford. HD Illustra IP network cameras 32 high definition Illustra IP network cameras from Tyco have been installed to monitor activity around the site of the Sikh place of worship, to identify anyone showing hostility towards the congregation. The Gurdwara Singh Sabha is sadly not alone in being a place of worship that has been the victim of hate crimes. Throughout society, 2017 saw over 68,000 acts of aggression in the UK being recorded as being motivated by racial or religious prejudices. Integrated video surveillance systems System integrator, Kings Secure Technologies, was one of three companies invited to compete for the contract to install the new video surveillance system System integrator, Kings Secure Technologies, was one of three companies invited to compete for the contract to install the new video surveillance system following on from a risk assessment carried out by a ‘Designing Out Crime’ officer from the West Yorkshire police. “The members of the Gurdwara wanted to take advantage of the very latest video surveillance technology in order to provide the police with high quality video evidence of any incidents or suspicious activity,” said Paul Atherton, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Kings Secure Technologies. “With 32 cameras required to ensure there would be no blind spots, this size of a project might normally stretch the budget of a place of worship, even though Illustra cameras are competitively priced. Fortunately, the Gurdwara was able to successfully apply for help with the cost of installing the new system via the security funding scheme available as part of the Government Hate Crime Action Plan. This was possible because the Gurdwara had been the target of religious based hostility.” Vandal-resistant dome cameras The 32 installed Illustra cameras are a combination of indoor and weatherproof, vandal-resistant 2 megapixel and 3 megapixel mini-domes. With Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and built-in IR illumination, they are designed to work effectively across a wide range of lighting conditions from bright sunlight to total darkness. As such, they are an ideal solution for when there is a need to capture faces and the vehicle number plates. An Exacq IP04-12T-DT Network Video Recorder (NVR) with 12 Terabytes of storage onboard installed by Kings, ensures that the images captured by all 32 cameras are recorded around the clock. The IP04-12T-DT has 64 camera channels and so provides the Gurdwara with the option to install further cameras should it need to do so in the future. Remote video monitoring using Exacq app We have installed the cameras so that we can assist the police in prosecuting anyone who commits a hate crime" The Gurdwara was originally a pharmaceutical production factory which has been converted into a place of worship and extended to provide space for educational and recreational activities as well functions, such as weddings. “Our Gurdwara is in almost constant use by the Sikh community in Bradford. We have installed the cameras so that we can assist the police in prosecuting anyone who commits a hate crime by being insulting or verbally aggressive towards any of our worshippers or visitors,” said Surjit Singh, a member of the Gurdwara. “The clarity of the images captured by the Illustra cameras is impressive and this has allowed us to pass on to investigating officers’ good quality video evidence of some recent incidents. As well as being able to locally access the images stored on the NVR, we also have the added bonus of being able to use the Exacq mobile App on our smartphones or tablets, enabling us to remotely keep a close eye 24/7 on what may be happening in the immediate vicinity of the Gurdwara.”

It was over a century ago that Charlotte Hungerford Hospital (CHH) was founded, as a gift by industrialist Uri T. Hungerford. The vision was to create a community hospital that would serve as a beacon of hope and a place of comfort for the ill and injured. 100 years later, that same community spirit has helped CHH evolve into a vibrant, independent, affordable healthcare network that delivers a comprehensive range of healthcare programs and services for over 100,000 lives in Northwestern Connecticut. A challenging safety diagnosis Avigilon has made us more efficient as we don’t have to spend much time sifting through large amounts of video” Charlotte Hungerford Hospital prides itself on supporting patient and staff safety in all hospital areas and locations. Several years ago, they found themselves with an outdated security system that lacked quality video coverage and recording capabilities. CHH struggled with reliable video playback and faced frequent system crashes. As a result, the hospital’s security operators were often unable to provide accurate evidence during forensic investigations and many liability claims and hospital incidents went unresolved. CHH needed a cost-effective, comprehensive security solution that could protect patients and staff across multiple locations while still being flexible enough to scale with the hospital’s growing needs.  Avigilon AI & analytics technology With a desire to improve its legacy surveillance system, CHH looked to Avigilon’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology and video analytics to meet their security needs. CHH began a multi-phase upgrade that included installing over 100 Avigilon cameras with self-learning video analytics, deploying AI-based Avigilon Appearance Search technology and using impulse radar technology with the Avigilon Presence Detector (APD) Sensor. Avigilon Appearance Search technology – a sophisticated deep learning AI search engine – helps CHH quickly locate a specific person or vehicle of interest across all cameras both inside the hospital and care centres as well as outside parking lots. This technology provides CHH’s operators with enhanced situational awareness, enabling fast event response and helping to save time and effort during critical investigations. To protect areas of the hospital where cameras cannot be installed, CHH installed the Avigilon Presence Detector (APD), a discreet impulse radar device with self-learning radar analytics that scans, learns, and continuously adapts to its environment. Avigilon presence detector sensors Our Security Department’s mission at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital is the safety of our patients, visitors, and employees” Capable of detecting persons who aren’t moving or are hidden, the APD sensors help improve situational awareness for CHH staff, and are used in areas where cameras are not permitted, such as restrooms or change rooms. When integrated with Avigilon Control Centre (ACC) video management software, APD sensors alert CHH operators of human presence while still maintaining privacy. Avigilon H4 cameras were used throughout the hospital to provide exceptional image quality and built-in self-learning video analytics, which provides accurate detection and notification of movement of people and vehicles. CHH also deployed HD Multi-sensor cameras which provide up to four camera views per camera installation, using only one camera license and network drop. This allows CHH’s staff to efficiently cover all angles in order to detect, verify, and act on potential security events across the hospital’s premises. Avigilon H4 and HD multi-sensor cameras At the core of CHH is a desire to help the community and still serve as the beacon of compassion it was founded to be 100 years ago. With these values in mind, the hospital’s mission when it comes to security is the safety of patients, visitors, and employees. Avigilon’s AI solutions have helped achieve this by moving the CHH system from legacy to advanced and providing effective monitoring around the clock while also helping to create operational efficiencies. Since deploying ACC software, CHH’s operators spend significantly less time reviewing recorded video, allowing them to focus on proactive event response. Working with Avigilon, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital has a roadmap for continued growth and exceptional patient safety.

Beykent University in Istanbul Turkey was established as a non-profit organisation by Adem Celik-Beykent Educational Foundation and started its education programs in 1997. Since then, it has grown its teaching and research facilities over five campuses for a population of approximately 29,000 students. The university offers a high-quality learning experience which includes 72 Associate’s degrees, 69 Bachelor’s degrees and over 50 Postgraduate programs. Medical students at Beykent University need to take lab exercises including audiometry and advanced simulation. However, in the audiometry lab, only 3 out of 20 students among a class are able to observe in the silent cabin and there is no other access to this cabin from outside. Also, patient simulation by students needed to be reviewed more closely while and after performing the exercise for educational purpose. Hanwha Techwin high resolution cameras were installed in labs to support medical students High-res camera installation About 450 Hanwha Techwin cameras were installed at multiple campuses of the university from Oct. 2015 to Aug. 2017. Especially 5 Megapixel high resolution cameras (5 of SND-6084R, 11 of XNO-8080R) were installed in labs to support medical students’ education. In the audiometry lab, Wisenet cameras installed inside the cabin made the rest of 17 students standing outside able to observe what is happening when hearing tests are being carried out. For the advanced simulation lab, Wisenet cameras were transferring images and sounds of the exercise performance collected from 3 simulation rooms to 1 observation room, making it possible for students to see the mistakes and the good examples on projection or television screens. The University has also deployed Wisenet cameras and recorders in order to help create a safe and secure environment for students and teachers throughout the campuses including VIP house, classroom, auditorium, outdoor campus and Medical School and Faculty of Dentistry in Avalon Campus. Over 700 Winset cameras to be installed in other locations throughout the University" Wisenet camera integration results “The most important reason for us choosing Wisenet products was the efficient way they work smoothly with software applications. The functionality promised to us at the sales stage has been delivered and the Hanwha Techwin team in the Turkey office have handled the project with care from start to finish. They have always been just a phone call away when we needed them for problem solving and they also provided extensive trainings. Their willingness to ensure continuity of the project has been a major benefit to us. As a result, we will be continuing to install Wisenet cameras in other locations throughout the University and are planning to have about 700 installed by the end of the project,” Barkin Oktem, IT manager at Beykent University.

ASSA ABLOY UK Specification, a UK division of ASSA ABLOY, a provider of door opening solutions, has assisted with the design and specification of doorsets and relevant hardware for the new Silverstone CE Primary School. Working alongside Northamptonshire County Council, local firm pHp Architects and contractor Lakehouse Construction, the UK Specification team helped deliver the full-scale build of the two-form entry primary school.  Products specified included 92 ASSA ABLOY laminate-faced timber doorsets, complete with redwood frames and dark grey PVC edges, making them easy to clean and to help conceal scuffs from daily use. Timber doorsets The colour contrast between the edge of the door and the door surface also helped to achieve an inclusive environment, in line with the latest legislation and guidelines such as Approved Document M of The Building Regulations 2000 and BS8300:2009+A1:2010. The doorsets were complemented by a full ironmongery specification of ASSA 3228 ZP hinges, ASSA ABLOY DC200 Rack & Pinion Door Closers, Union Optimus 3 Locks, UNION J1000 door furniture and ASSA finger guards, which prevent pupils’ fingers from being trapped in closing doors. We have worked on a number of education projects and pride ourselves on tailoring the solutions we provide from our extensive experience in the sector" Masterkey access system The specification also included ASSA’s P600 cylinders for internal and external doors as well as external gates, providing the school with one masterkey system and permitting access to authorised personnel only. Chris Wayman, Associate at pHp Architects commented: “ASSA ABLOY UK Specification not only supplied high quality and fit-for-purpose products, but they also provided a full consultancy service, which took into account factors such as pupil comfort, flow of traffic around the school, as well as the need for staff to access certain areas of the building efficiently and securely. We are delighted with the finished result.”  James Bloomfield, Headteacher at Silverstone CE Primary School said: “Working with the UK Specification team was straightforward from start to finish. The doors and ironmongery specified really enhance what is an exceptional building.” David Shields, National Specification Manager at ASSA ABLOY UK Specification, added: “We have worked on a number of education projects and pride ourselves on tailoring the solutions we provide from our extensive experience in the sector.” Risk management “The challenge in all schools is to prioritise safety and minimise the risk of injury, while providing a comfortable learning and teaching environment for both pupils and staff." "We believe we have not only achieved this, but also exceeded expectations with the solutions we helped design and specify via our BIM capabilities and personable one-to-one service.”

The Everett Public School district is located in Everett, Washington, the largest city in Snohomish County. The school System includes 27 schools spanning 39 square miles, with a Student population of almost 20,000. With so many campuses to monitor and protect, it was clear that the older surveillance system, a mix of off-brand analogue products accumulated over three decades located at each site, was no longer adequate. Thanks in part to a state-wide grant, in 2014, Everett Public Schools upgraded their entire video security infrastructure to a digital, IP-based system which included Wisenet cameras from Hanwha Techwin, and an OnSSI Ocularis Video Management Solution (VMS). Comprehensive video surveillance system The information technology department was asked to design a modern security system that would serve the district’s current needs, be cost effective and handle future expansion. To accomplish the task for all campuses, they recently constructed a centralised, state-of-the-art data centre for the district headquarters in Everett. The initial IP camera system, featuring Hanwha Techwin products, was installed in 2014 to provide security video coverage at the then new district headquarters by RFI Communications. In 2015 a district wide video system was installed by Cabling & Technology Services. The video surveillance system was built to provide information and access to multiple stakeholders in the school district. While campus security officers are primary users of the system, not everyone needs to see everything and the ability to precisely control access to feeds has been key to simplifying the system for administrators and principals, while still allowing law enforcement comprehensive access if required.The move from siloed analogue security systems for each school to a centralised hub architecture for all video feeds has been a huge success for the organisation Centralised IP surveillance system The move from siloed analogue security systems for each school to a centralised hub architecture for all video feeds has been a huge success for the organisation. The district has achieved a new level of control, quality and confidence. With over 600 cameras in use, and more Wisenet series cameras from Hanwha added regularly, the ability to expand and manage the system is a key benefit for the district and its security partners. Like a typical data centre, and unlike a typical school, the Everett Public Schools data centre has power backup and redundancies in place. In addition to the security infrastructure, all data processing for every system, across all campuses, happens centrally at the data centre. Edge analytics “The Hanwha Techwin cameras integrate perfectly with our VMS system and we particularly like the on-the-edge analytics that the cameras provide in addition to using motion to trigger recording,” says Brandon Knutson, Video Security System Manager for Everett Public Schools. “In most cases, we record only during motion or other analytic triggers. The latest Wisenet cameras come with an entire suite of analytics which includes loitering, intrusion, entry, exit, disappear, and more, but we mainly use the intrusion function, which we find very reliable.” Low light performance “We’ve been using the Wisenet X series for single imager cameras and we really like those,” adds Knutson. “Two significant differentiators about these cameras are their wide dynamic range and their performance in low light. It’s pretty phenomenal. Any camera can give you good daytime vision, but when things get tough it really separates out the camera vendors.”Two significant differentiators about these cameras are their wide dynamic range and their performance in low light" Multi-stream capabilities Because of the close integration with OnSSI, Knutson and the team are able to utilise the multi-stream capabilities of the Wisenet cameras, dynamically switching between an H.264 low res and H.265 high res image when required. When viewing a grid of 6 x 6 cameras on the Ocularis VMS, the smaller images can utilise the low-res stream. This keeps CPU/GPU usage low. If an operator clicks on an image to enlarge it, it automatically switches to the H.265 higher frame rate image for more detail and resolution. “We’re currently installing our first Wisenet 9080 multi-sensor and we’re excited by the economies of scale we can achieve with the se cameras, while making no sacrifices in terms of performance and flexibility,” says Knutson. “We are currently testing the X series rugged interior cameras. We’re particularly interested in the sound analytics that come with those cameras. We’re looking at gunshot, explosion, and glass breakage analytics.” Cybersecurity “We like Hanwha Techwin’s commitment to cyber-security. We’re very aware of the cyber-security issues surrounding some camera manufacturers, and we feel good about the company’s South Korean ownership. Moving forward, we have a new elementary school in planning, and we’ll be using Hanwha Techwin cameras there too. Thankfully, the Hanwha Techwin product line has a camera for every need that we have,” concludes Knutson.

Vicon Industries, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components announced that the implementation of its end-to-end Valerus video management system at the Greek American Institute (GAI) in Bronx, NY has been completed.  The installation was performed by the Long Island office of ITsavvy, a Chicago-based IT products and technology solutions provider. The new Vicon Valerus system encompasses the entire property, which includes the oldest continuously run Greek Orthodox School in the United States and the adjacent Church of Zoodohos Peghe and community centre. It includes cameras within the interior and around the exterior of all buildings and surrounding grounds and is managed and monitored through web-based Valerus VMS software, making it accessible to school administrators both onsite and to those logging in remotely via an internet browser.  The Valerus interface provides customised views for each system user. Based upon log-in credentials, cameras that are of greatest interest to each administrator are displayed as part of their default settings. Our Valerus system provides schools and places of worship with sophisticated security solutions that are easy for non-technical administrators to use" Enhanced school security ITsavvy worked with GAI to identify camera placement to maximise coverage of all indoor and outdoor publicly accessible areas, selecting high resolution Vicon cameras models that could deliver clear visibility in a cost-effective manner. The use of 360-degree hemispheric cameras, in select locations, provide expansive coverage with no blind spots in busy areas where students often congregate. The new systems satisfy parents’ requests to provide enhanced security for the children who attend the school and provides administrators with tools to investigate and prosecute any future criminal activity. Demos Lorenzos, President of GAI’s School Board, says, “The Valerus system is simple to use but very advanced. Someone who isn’t technically savvy can easily navigate through it.” Bret McGowan, Vicon’s Senior V.P. of Sales and Marketing says that the system was designed with specifically that intent. “Schools and places of worship have been the scene of too many tragedies in recent years. Our Valerus system is designed to provide these types of facilities with sophisticated security solutions that are easy for non-technical administrators to use to their full capabilities.”

Higher pixel count is better. It’s a basic tenet of the video surveillance market, or at least it is the implication as manufacturers continue to tout their latest products offering ever-higher pixel counts. But the reality is more nuanced, as our Expert Panel Roundtable panelists explain this week. Pixel count shouldn’t be seen as an end unto itself, but rather as a factor in determining what camera is applicable to which application. Pixel count is just one factor of several to consider, and the needs of the application must rule all decisions. We asked this week’s panel: How many megapixels are enough? At what point does additional resolution not matter, or not make economic sense?