Indoor surveillance

Allied Universal®, global security, and facility services company, is leveraging highly advanced technology to meet the company’s aggressive hiring demands of onboarding 50,000 security professionals, administrative and managerial staff during the 4th quarter of 2021. Allied Universal’s AUHireSmart™ tool allows candidates to complete the application process online including a video interview with some candidates receiving a job offer within an hour.  Seasonal and regular recruitment opportunities “We are leveraging our AI technology to schedule, interview, and onboard candidates and new hires remotely,” said Morgan Price, Senior Vice President, Recruiting and Talent Acquisition at Allied Universal.  “In this challenging labor market, we are also offering hiring bonuses for new employees in certain states.” Allied Universal is recruiting for seasonal and regular, full-time and part-time opportunities for these open positions including security professionals, client and account managers, site supervisors, and other functional roles within human resources, sales, finance, and IT.  Promote-from-within culture Allied Universal employs men and women who have served in the military by helping advance their second career “The opportunity for growth within Allied Universal is unlimited,” says Price.  “We take great pride in our promote-from-within culture. We have many examples of employees who began their career as security professionals and now are working in all facets of the organisation, from the finance department to sales, to human resources to marketing to operations; there is truly something for everyone.” Allied Universal is committed to employing men and women who have served in the military by helping advance their second career in the security industry. Allied Universal connects veterans with military groups/mentors and offers specific training to ensure a smooth transition from the military to Allied Universal. Recruitment offerings “We are looking for individuals with superior customer services skills, who are dependable and trustworthy,” says Price.  “Someone with security experience is a plus but not mandatory.  We are seeking individuals who see this new hire opportunity as more than just a job - but instead, a career.”  Allied Universal offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans including life insurance, 401(k), employee assistance programs, tuition reimbursement, loyalty programs, company discounts, perks, and more. Allied Universal offers competitive wages within the security industry.  Salaries are based on the experience and location of the job site.

Allegion plc, a global provider of security products and solutions, has been honoured as the winner of the National Safety Council’s prestigious 2021 Robert W. Campbell Award. The National Safety Council (NSC) is America’s foremost nonprofit safety advocate.  Allegion was formally honoured during the opening session of the 2021 NSC Safety Congress & Expo in Orlando, Florida. Campbell Award winners are an elite group of organisations successfully integrating environmental, health, and safety management with business operations as a cornerstone of success. Prioritising safety “Allegion employees work to meticulously and intentionally uphold the company’s ‘be safe, be healthy’ value, to positively impact workplace safety and engagement, the environment, customers, and local communities. As an organisation that embodies ‘being safe,’ their mission couldn’t resonate more,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC President, and CEO. “We are proud to honour Allegion with this award and look forward to seeing how the company will continue to prioritise safety and make a positive impact on the world around us.” Allegion Safety Initiative Allegion developed a risk-focused evaluation tool, which provided a framework for safety improvements Allegion designed and implemented the “Allegion Safety Initiative,” a peer-to-peer program promoting safety both at home and at work, and has driven a significant reduction in workplace injuries since becoming a standalone company in 2013.  Allegion also developed a quantitative, risk-focused evaluation tool, which provided a framework for safety improvements, significantly reduced risk, and increased employee engagement. Health and safety management “Allegion is both honoured and humbled to have been selected as the winner of the 2021 Robert W. Campbell Award by the National Safety Council,” said Dave Petratis, chairman, president, and CEO of Allegion. “At Allegion, safety is inherent to both what we do and to who we are. We pride ourselves on having one of the safest workforces in the world – but also on making positive impacts on the environment and the health of the communities around us. We hope other companies, big and small, also commit to the Campbell Award’s mission by effectively advancing business vitality through embracing the value of environmental, health, and safety management.”  The Campbell Award is underwritten by the Exxon Mobil Corporation and Cummins, Inc. It is named for Robert W. Campbell, a safety pioneer and the first president of the NSC. 

Hikvision, a globally renowned company in delivering high-performance professional security solutions with tremendous value, offers an intelligent radar PTZ camera that combines advanced radar detection and a 4 MP high-resolution network speed dome, with long-range zoom capabilities. Hikvision's radar PTZ camera The Hikvision iDS-2SR8141IXS-AB Radar PTZ Camera operates effectively 24/7, in virtually any weather or lighting condition, with the ability to detect intrusion and line-crossing events. It is the ideal, high-performance, high-value solution for a wide range of applications It is the ideal, high-performance, high-value solution for a wide range of applications, including at airports, railways, museums, oil and gas fields, warehouses and manufacturing facilities, and other locations that demand high-performance perimeter protection. “There is a growing demand for increased surveillance visibility in remote and widespread areas, in all types of challenging conditions, weather and lighting,” said John Xiao, the Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. Intelligent security camera John Xiao adds, “Hikvision has engineered an intelligent Radar PTZ Camera, to accommodate such demanding perimeter surveillance applications, with the perfect combination of high performance and high value.” Hikvision’s iDS-2SR8141IXS-AB Radar PTZ Camera features millimeter-wave radar that enables precise accuracy, pinpointing the distance, velocity, and angle of a specific location, in all weather conditions, including restricted air quality, such as smog and dust. Features include multi-target positioning and pattern tracking The device supports multi-target positioning, pattern tracking, and linked camera tracking, in multiple directions. It also has the ability to filter out false alarms, using various event detections that employ intelligent algorithm analysis. The integrated Radar PTZ Camera can visually identify targets up to 328 feet away, using 40x optical and 16x digital zoom, with smart IR technology that features a range of up to 660 feet. The camera also supports people density detection in the panoramic channel.

Dudley-based surveillance and security specialist Zicam Integrated Security Limited, which is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary year, has appointed industry expert Barry Gunningham as Business Development Manager. Barry comes to Zicam with over twenty years of experience in the security industry, beginning his career in the USA where he worked for one of the country’s largest home security providers. Work experience Following this he branched out to work in commercial security, covering fire alarms, access control, and CCTV, before returning to the UK in 2011. Since then, he has continued to work in the commercial sector as an Operations Manager, focusing largely on the industry’s latest technology, system design, industry standards, and client relations. The new appointment comes shortly after Zicam’s 25th year in operation, as a brand-new role that will see existing relationships built on, and a push for strategic reach into new markets. Current advancements Speaking of his new position, Barry is positive about the company’s position in the industry, “Zicam’s team is full of talented and tenured engineers and support staff and offers a great customer experience to their clients. I’m also pleased to see that the company take on apprentice engineers, something which is important for our industry to be doing.” Access control is also advancing with greater integration with CCTV and intruder alarms When asked where he hopes to see Zicam moving within the industry, he explains, “The current advancements in CCTV are very exciting, with new cameras with higher resolution than ever before becoming available. Access control is also advancing with greater integration with CCTV and intruder alarms. This all means that customers have everything at their fingertips or smartphone.” “As with most industries at the moment, the supply chain for certain items can be challenging, but the infrastructure the business has put in place is strong.” Feedback Zicam’s CEO and founder Milan Mazic, who has successfully grown the company from a one-man operation to its stature today, is pleased to have Barry on board the now 24-strong team to serve clients including the NHS, Eddie Stobart, and Sunseeker Yachts. “I am pleased to welcome Barry to the Zicam team, and look forward to him helping shape our business moving forwards. I am confident that his years of experience in the industry will stand him in good stead to push the business into new areas with exciting plans for future strategy.” Security solutions provider Zicam’s engineers are accredited for the installation of CCTV and IP CCTV equipment utilising technology With an in-depth knowledge of the industry and close working relationship with the manufacturers, Zicam is well placed to provide security solutions that suit its customers’ needs and clients’ budgets, and this has led to a plethora of glowing endorsements from both. Zicam’s engineers are fully accredited for the installation of CCTV and Internet Protocol (IP) CCTV equipment and all their work is carried out to the highest standards, utilising pioneering technology. CCTV solutions Zicam prides itself on providing bespoke CCTV solutions that exceed clients' requirements and its system design is future-proofed, enabling expansion as client needs develop. All equipment meets approved industry and legislative standards and complies with ISO 9001:2008, BS50132 & DD243:2002, NSI Gold, and local police force policies With a continued ambitious growth strategy, dynamic leadership, and dedication to doing things well, for both the customer and staff, the future looks safe and secure for the company.

National Training Center (NTC) study books are commonly used by security technicians, locksmiths, and life-safety professionals, for self-improvement, company education, and to prepare for examinations of all kinds. From October 6 to October 8, 2021, save on NTC training book purchases, as the National Training Center has announced a flash sale on its publications. The sale applies to all the NTC training books and guides, including: Red Book | Fire Alarm Certification Guide Orange Book | Fire Codes at a Glance Blue Book | Low Voltage Systems Yellow Book | Video Security Systems Brown Book | Fire Alarm Systems Handbook Purple Book | Access Control Systems Handbook NTC’s distinguished lineup of training materials NTC's entire lineup of training materials is top shelf and highly respected, across the board NTC's entire lineup of training materials is top shelf and highly respected, across the board. They're often adopted by US states, as examination references and by commercial companies, as study guides for certification. For example, in the State of Florida, starting in October, 2021, the ‘Blue Book’ will replace two references that Florida State officials have traditionally allowed into the Electrical Contractors’ License Exam. The older reference materials were written in 1992 and 1999. State of New Jersey uses NTC's ‘Blue Book’ and ‘Yellow Book’ The State of New Jersey also allows use of NTC's ‘Blue Book’ and ‘Yellow Book’, in the State of New Jersey’s administered examinations and combinations of the same, including in electronic security system, fire alarm, burglar alarm, and locksmith exams. The State of Connecticut allows ‘Blue Book’ references, with the following state examinations, L-5 Limited Electrical Contractor and L-6 Limited Electrical Journey-Person exams. In addition, the State of Tennessee allows use of NTC's ‘Blue Book’, as a reference for their Burglar Alarm Qualifying Agent examination. Low-voltage examination books at reduced price For those individuals facing a low-voltage examination that involves security, access control, locksmith and life safety studies, all NTC training books are available at a reduced price, for a limited time only. They can buy one book for US$ 125 and buy five or more books for US$ 110 each.

Pyronix is delighted to announce that the ‘Enforcer on Tour’ is back to talk to UK and Ireland professional installers, about its latest all-in-one security solution, the new Enforcer V11, with AndroidTablet, HomeControlHUB app and SmartPlug, as well as its extensive support services. Hosted at various distribution centres across the United Kingdom and Ireland (UK&I), throughout October and November 2021, alongside online meetings, Pyronix Account Managers will be highlighting all the innovative new features, added value and up-sell opportunities that the brand-new solution delivers, with attending professional installers also able to claim a FREE £20 voucher (subject to terms and conditions). Enforcer V11 system “We can’t wait to bring the ‘Enforcer on Tour’ back, with our award-winning Enforcer system and the full capabilities that the Enforcer V11 brings, alongside the extensive full-package support that we offer installers through GAP. With the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been a long time since we’ve been able to do this and we’re really excited to bring it back, with such a solution,” said Laurence Kenny, Marketing Director at Pyronix. With Account Managers not only on-hand at selected distributor outlets, across the United Kingdom and Ireland, but also available for one-on-one sessions and Zoom presentations, this is the most accessible ‘Enforcer on Tour’ yet, giving professional security installers unprecedented access to see the latest evolution of the multi-award-winning ‘installer’s choice’ Enforcer system. Security, automation and video in one platform The Enforcer V11 system takes security and control to new heights for homes and businesses Incorporating security, automation and video in one platform, which is conveniently accessed via the tablet interface, the Enforcer V11 system takes security and control to new heights for homes and businesses. Featuring a range of new innovative features, including enhanced installation, Wi-Fi built onboard its PCB, unsupervised zones and occupancy timers on zones, the Enforcer V11 practically covers any installation requirement. The AndroidTablet enables users to surf the web, as well as open the dedicated HomeControlHUB app, for complete control of the Enforcer V11. The installer can also use the interface, as a portable keypad on maintenance visits, while existing ProControl+ and Hik-Connect accounts can be connected, to pull other Pyronix/Hikvision cameras on the property into view via HomeControlHUB. SmartPlug addition for value-added integration Meanwhile, the addition of the new SmartPlug provides value-added integration, thereby enabling users to manage any plug-in appliance, via HomeControlHUB on the AndroidTablet, where they can also access their cameras and security. Laurence Kenny stated, “The Enforcer V11 marks a significant milestone in the development of the Enforcer system, a complete one-platform solution that protects the property, its occupants, the perimeter, vans, elderly relatives and much more, while providing access to camera streams and the controlling of smart devices, around the home.” ‘Enforcer on Tour’ He adds, “The capabilities aren’t going to stop here either, as we’re already working on new innovations that will continue to add value and longevity to the Enforcer V11 system, for both the professional installer and their customers.” By registering and attending one of the tour dates, professional installers can also claim a free £20 All4One voucher (Terms & Conditions apply). The demand to attend and learn about the Enforcer V11 system and claim a voucher will be high, so installers should look to book early, at the ‘Enforcer on Tour’ page, on Pyronix’s official website, in order to avoid the disappointment of missing out.

Cyber threats hit the headlines every day; however digital hazards are only part of the security landscape. In fact, for many organisations - physical rather than virtual security will remain the burning priority. Will Liu, Managing Director of TP-Link UK, explores the three key elements that companies must consider when implementing modern-day business surveillance systems.  1) Protecting more than premises Video surveillance systems are undoubtedly more important than ever before for a huge number of businesses across the full spectrum of public and private sector, manufacturing and service industries. One simple reason for this is the increased use of technology within those businesses. Offices, workshops, and other facilities house a significant amount of valuable and expensive equipment - from computers, and 3D printers to specialised machinery and equipment. As a result, workplaces are now a key target for thieves, and ensuring the protection of such valuable assets is a top priority. A sad reality is that some of those thieves will be employees themselves. Video surveillance system Of course, video surveillance is often deployed to combat that threat alone, but actually, its importance goes beyond theft protection. With opportunist thieves targeting asset-rich sites more regularly, the people who work at these sites are in greater danger too. Effective and efficient surveillance is imperative not just for physical asset protection, but also for the safety From this perspective, effective and efficient surveillance is imperative not just for physical asset protection, but also for the safety of colleagues as well. Organisations need to protect the people who work, learn or attend the premises. A video surveillance system is, therefore, a great starting point for companies looking to deter criminal activity. However, to be sure you put the right system in place to protect your hardware assets, your people, and the business itself, here are three key considerations that make for a successful deployment. 2) Fail to prepare, and then prepare to fail Planning is the key to success, and surveillance systems are no different. Decide in advance the scope of your desired solution. Each site is different and the reality is that every solution is different too. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all solution and only by investing time on the exact specification can you arrive at the most robust and optimal solution.  For example, organisations need to consider all the deployment variables within the system’s environment. What is the balance between indoor and outdoor settings; how exposed to the elements are the outdoor cameras; what IP rating to the need? A discussion with a security installer will help identify the dangerous areas that need to be covered and the associated best sites for camera locations. Camera coverage After determining location and coverage angles, indoors and outdoors, the next step is to make sure the cameras specified are up to the job for each location. Do they have the right lens for the distance they are required to cover, for example? It is not as simple as specifying one type of camera and deploying it everywhere. Devices that can use multiple power sources, Direct Current, or Power over Ethernet well are far more versatile You have to consider technical aspects such as the required level of visual fidelity and whether you also need two-way audio at certain locations? Another simple consideration is how the devices are powered. Devices that can use multiple power sources, Direct Current or Power over Ethernet as well are far more versatile and reliable. Answers to these questions and a lot more need to be uncovered by an expert, to deliver a best-of-breed solution for the particular site. 3) Flexibility breeds resilience Understanding exactly what you need is the start. Ensuring you can install, operate and manage your video surveillance system is the next step. Solutions that are simple to install and easy to maintain will always be favoured - for example, cameras that have multiple sources of power can be vital for year-round reliability. Alongside the physical aspect of any installation, there is also the software element that needs to be considered. The last thing organisations need is a compatibility headache once all their cameras and monitoring stations are in place. Selecting cameras and equipment with the flexibility to support a variety of different operating systems and software is important not just for the days following the installation, but also to future-proof the solution against change.  Easy does it Once the system is up and running, the real work of video surveillance begins. Therefore, any organisation considering deploying a system should look to pick one that makes the day-to-day operation as easy as possible to manage. And again - that is all about the set-up. Cameras can also provide alerts if they have been tampered with or their settings changed The most modern systems and technology can deliver surveillance systems that offer smarter detection, enhanced activity reporting so you learn more about your operations, and also make off-site, remote management easy to both implement and adjust as conditions change. For example, camera software that immediately notifies controllers when certain parameters are met - like motion detection that monitors a specific area for unauthorised access. Cameras can also provide alerts if they have been tampered with or their settings changed without proper authorisation. Remote management of HD footage What’s more, the days of poor quality or unreliable transfer of video are long gone. The high-quality HD footage can be captured, stored, and transferred across networks without any degradation, with hard drives or cloud-based systems able to keep hundreds of days of high-quality recordings for analysis of historical data. Finally, the best surveillance solutions also allow for secure remote management not just from a central control room, but also from personal devices and mobile apps. All this delivers ‘always-on’ security and peace of mind. The watchword in security Modern video surveillance takes organisational security to the next level. It protects physical assets, ensures workplace and workforce safety, and helps protect the operations, reputation, and profitability of a business.  However, this is not just an ‘off-the-shelf purchase’. It requires proper planning in the form of site surveys, equipment and software specifications, as well as an understanding of operational demands and requirements. Investing time in planning will help businesses realise the best dividends in terms of protection. Ultimately, that means organisations should seek to collaborate with vendors who offer site surveys - they know their equipment best, your needs, and can work with you to create the perfect solution.

From analogue to digital, from stand-alone to interlinked, building systems are in a state of transition. Moreover, the rate of change shows no sign of slowing, which can make it difficult to keep up to date with all the latest developments. If asked to pinpoint the single biggest driver of this revolution, one could point out the growing clamour for platform convergence. A security guard in a building doesn’t want to use different systems to check video cameras, fire alarms or if someone has entered a restricted area: – it simply isn’t efficient. For similar reasons, a building manager wants a single interface to control heating and lighting to match fluctuating occupancy levels, particularly in a hybrid working model. Applying the digital glue The demand from end-users for system convergence is growing, but to achieve full interoperability you still need to apply some ‘digital glue’ and that requires expertise. Yet bringing together disparate systems from different manufacturers can be problematic. Just as you get things to work, someone upgrades their solution and your carefully implemented convergence can start to come unstuck. Managing an implementation can quickly become more complicated, today’s quick-fix can become tomorrow’s headache This is one of the principal issues with all types of new technology; not everyone will choose the same path to reach the desired goal – it’s the old VHS/Betamax argument updated for building management and security systems. Managing and maintaining an implementation can quickly become more complicated than it first appears and without proper oversight, today’s quick-fix can become tomorrow’s technical headache. Effective support for a hybrid workforce Today’s hybrid workforce is a response to the pandemic that looks set to become an established part of working life for many companies across the world. Security systems have a massive role to play in facilitating this transformation that goes beyond simple intrusion detection, access control, and video monitoring. They can identify the most densely populated areas in a building to comply with social distancing guidelines and provide efficient use of space. The insights gathered from a security system can also be used to identify patterns of behaviour, which can then be used for planning and directing the use of building space to help create the best possible working environment while also minimising heating, lighting, and air conditioning expenditures. Identity credentials can help manage compliance with industry regulations by limiting access to certain areas Similarly, identity credentials – either biometric or mobile-based – can help manage compliance to industry regulations by limiting access to certain areas only to approved employees. Creating and maintaining the appropriate level of functionality requires a combination of innovative solutions and industry experience. The complete security package It’s not just physical security that’s important – cybersecurity is a major focus, too. Bringing together both the physical security and cybersecurity realms is increasingly becoming a ‘must have’ capability. What is evident is that the pace of technological change is faster than ever. Today’s functionality simply wouldn’t have been possible just a few years ago, while today’s leading-edge developments may seem commonplace in five years.

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.

It’s been almost exactly a decade since HID Global launched the world's first university pilot of smartphones carrying secure mobile IDs. A lot has changed in the following 10 years. Today’s technology has matured, advanced, and proliferated across a variety of high-value use cases. To catch up on the latest developments in mobile access, we contacted Luc Merredew, Product Marketing Director, Physical Access Control, at HID Global.   Q: What has changed since the first pilot implementation of smartphones used for secure mobile identification? Merredew: One of the biggest milestones several years ago was when mobile access solutions achieved certification to the ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management System (ISMS) standard. With increasing awareness of cloud-based security threats and resulting high expectations from a solution, today’s system owners, operators, and users insist on companies being able to demonstrate that they have had their services vetted by independent laboratories and/or agencies. When adopting mobile access solutions that maximise convenience and efficiency, and deliver dramatically improved user experiences, it is neither necessary nor acceptable to compromise security in either the physical or digital domains. Q: Do universities continue to be the biggest users? Mobile IDs on devices eliminate person-to-person credentials when accessing secured areas Merredew: The use cases have grown dramatically, spread evenly across all types of organisations in locations ranging from high-rise buildings to multi-campus global enterprises. But yes, universities continue to be big adopters, and they were among those most eager to leverage the technology so they could bring people back to campus in person during the pandemic. In this environment, mobile IDs on smartphones and other devices eliminate person-to-person credential (e.g., badge or ID card) issuance or revocation, as well as the need to physically touch cards, readers, or keypads when accessing secured areas.   Q: How were mobile IDs employed by your customers as they brought people back to physical locations after the pandemic shutdown? Merredew: One example is Vanderbilt University, where the challenges of COVID-19 brought renewed attention to the importance of a modern system for identity management and access control that was compatible with Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth technologies. Members of the campus community could more conveniently access buildings and services with their mobile devices, and the university could efficiently provision and de-provision credentials remotely without person-to-person contact. More recently, Vanderbilt leveraged HID Mobile Access® to deploy campus IDs on iPhone and Apple Watch through Apple Wallet. Q: Is there another example outside the university vertical? Merredew: Another example is the iconic tower Arcos Bosques Torre 1 in Mexico City, where the owners and tenants enjoy the simplicity of using their trusted mobile devices to seamlessly access their spaces. As with the Vanderbilt deployment, the drive for operational efficiency and convenience in the tower was combined with a desire to minimise the need for users to come in physical contact with the system. Having a solution like HID Mobile Access that delivers touchless entry and increased safety and security is important.  Q: What have been the biggest mobile access advancements? The mobile credential provides contactless, seamless access to a wide range of devices and services Merredew: One of the most important advancements was simplifying upgrade paths to mobile access. In the Vanderbilt example, our HID Reader Manager was used to upgrade the firmware on the university’s physical access control readers and extend support for NFC-based credentials in Apple Wallet. The university uses the HID Origo™ Mobile Identities API integrated with CS Gold®, a higher education transaction system from CBORD, for credential lifecycle management. Another significant enhancement has been the expanded range of uses cases for the mobile credential, going beyond simply opening doors to include providing contactless, seamless access to a wide range of devices and services such as time-and-attendance terminals, cashless vending machines, printers, computers, workstations, and many other applications. Q: Wearables are also having an impact. Merredew: Contactless mobile experiences are also delivered through wearable wristbands. One example is the Nymi band which, once authenticated, continuously authenticates the identity of the user until it’s removed from the wrist. This delivers zero-trust security principles and access control using convenient fingerprint and heartbeat biometrics to users seeking touchless authentication. Q: What is the impact of the cloud? Merredew: The move to a cloud-based system to issue and manage mobile identity credentials has unified, automated, and simplified identity issuance at a single facility or across any number of distributed office or remote work locations. Q: What should end users look for in a mobile access solution? Look for solutions that use a secure element in the reader as well as cloud certificates, to ensure security and data privacy Merredew: Solutions should support the largest possible number of popular mobile devices – in HID’s case, this includes more than 250. Look for solutions that use a secure element in the reader, and a secure key management process, as well as cloud certificates, to ensure both security and data privacy. Make sure the solution supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC), and both iOS and Android operating systems. Solutions that provide Application Programming Interface (API) and Software Development Kit (SDK) support offer direct access to the solution’s access control hardware, speeding deployment while enabling integration partners to continue innovating products that deliver even better user experiences. Q: Wonder what this market will look like in 10 more years. What’s next for mobile access? Merredew: Future innovations are on the horizon with technologies such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) wireless connectivity, which HID expects will become ubiquitous on mobile devices. It provides unprecedented accuracy and security when measuring the distance or determining the relative position of a target. It is not HID’s expectation that UWB will replace Near Field Communication (NFC) or Bluetooth, but rather supplement Bluetooth and other technologies to provide the assurance, reliability, and granularity of device position that enables truly seamless experiences. 

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.

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!

Nestled on the Western shore of Lake Como, the Grand Hotel Victoria in Menaggio is one of the latest 5-star luxury properties in the Larian landscape. The magnificent resort in Art Nouveau style, which encompasses a late 19th-century palace and a former monastery, has been completely renovated to host 81 rooms, lush gardens with pool, more than 2,000 m2 spa, 2 restaurants, and 90 car places in the underground parking. End-to-end security solutions The Grand Hotel Victoria in Menaggio, wedged between the lakeside and the heights of the Lepontine Alps, promises its guests a unique experience. To make this happen, it is essential to improve the security level. Dahua Technology is a world-pioneering video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider. Based on technological innovations, it has offered end-to-end security solutions, systems, and services to create value and solve problems for clients. This is why the hotel management entrusted Dahua and MD Impianti – its system integrator partner – the realisation of the perimeter and indoor surveillance system.  AI-based cameras and deep learning With deep learning, Dahua Perimeter Protection technology can recognise humans and vehicles accurately In the solution provided by Dahua Technology, 15 units of IPC-HFW5241E-ZE 2MP bullet cameras with 2.7~13.5 mm motorised varifocal lens of Dahua WizMind series – equipped with various AI functions such as perimeter protection and people counting – were installed to guard the outside of the building providing clear images even in the low-light environment due to IR LEDs (range up to 50 m), WDR (120 dB) and Starlight technology (till 0.0002 Lux before switching to B/W). With the deep learning algorithm, Dahua Perimeter Protection technology can recognise humans and vehicles accurately. In the restricted areas (such as pedestrian areas and vehicle areas), the false alarms are largely reduced. Dahua Lite series network camera After crossing the main entrance surmounted by a balcony that rests on four Doric columns, no less than 110 units of  IPC-HDW2431T-AS-S2 4MP eyeball network cameras – featuring IR LEDs and Starlight themselves - discretely watch over the premises of the historical and new wings. With upgraded H.265 encoding technology, the Dahua Lite series network camera has efficient video encoding capacity, which saves bandwidth and storage space. This camera adopts the latest Starlight technology and displays better colour images in the condition of low illumination. Enterprise-level NVR NVR features a mouse shortcut operation menu, remote management and control, central storage, edge storage Two 128-channel NVR608R-128-4KS2 network video recorders with 8 hard disks and redundant power manage all streams, while the networking was implemented with ePoE, PoE, and aggregation switches, connected by CAT6 cables and optical fiber. For applications where details are critical for identification, this enterprise-level NVR provides a powerful Intel processor with up to 4K resolution. Additionally, the NVR features a mouse shortcut operation menu, remote management and control, central storage, edge storage, and backup storage. Remote monitoring All images collected by the whole system can be visualised both in the concierge and remotely. The latter is a feature that allows great flexibility to meet the needs of the end-user, who is already evaluating the integration of DSS centralisation software and a video wall. The system protecting the prestigious Gran Hotel Victoria in Menaggio demonstrates once again how Dahua Technology, along with its partners and supply chain, is capable of providing high-profile and tailor-made integrated security solutions, suitable for any scenario and compliant with current legislation.

Being isolated on the edge of wilderness means there’s a need for a video system that is both reliable and flexible. For that reason, the team at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), since 2009, has relied on video management software (VMS) from Milestone Systems, to enhance security, safety, and efficiency at the airport. Milestone XProtect VMS installed At the edge of the frontier, Jackson Hole Airport has experienced considerable growth over the years. Significant capital investments in expansions have made new video system integrations possible several times and Milestone XProtect VMS has supported the airport’s needs along the way. As of 2020, over 220 cameras are in use, but the airport shows no signs of slowing down As of 2020, over 220 cameras are in use, but the airport shows no signs of slowing down. New projects will include building a fuel farm, a car wash, and expanded parking facilities. As the need to increase security continues, XProtect open platform software will enable IT team growth and the seamless integration of new cameras, and data storage capabilities. Enhanced situational awareness All video is kept for up to a full year, with most of the system’s cameras set for motion recording, around the clock. As a result, administrators achieve greater situational awareness and better security. The video system has enabled improvements throughout the entire airport. For example, Jackson Hole Airport contends with a great deal of plane de-icing, for several months each year. The process occurs at a distance from the main buildings. Thanks to the video expansion, each airline is now able to monitor the de-icing of their planes. Allowing airline personnel to monitor progress on their own has saved airport staff time and resources. Monitoring security In addition, the airport uses the system to closely monitor the security checkpoint, to capture video documentation, in case of an incident. By monitoring baggage areas, it’s possible to investigate lost bags and left-behind items, by reviewing recorded video. New 4K multi-sensor cameras support an investigatory system, helping staff see previously uncovered areas. The cameras capture high-resolution video and provide enough data to zoom in, after the fact. Deployed Agent Vi’s video analytics Milestone Systems’ XProtect Smart Client has improved general situational awareness in the airport Additionally, the team has deployed video analytics from Agent Vi, to provide a layer of automated alarms, for flagging abnormal occurrences. For example, video analytics can detect travellers moving against the foot traffic flow and crossing into restricted areas. Milestone Systems’ XProtect Smart Client has improved general situational awareness in the airport. Authorised users now have a new standard for accessing surveillance remotely. It provides seamless viewing of live and recorded video, instant control of cameras and connected security devices, and a comprehensive activity overview. Force multiplication using advanced technology The ongoing use of Milestone’s VMS makes it possible to maintain the independence and efficiency of a small team of personnel, delivering maximum security at the edge of a wild frontier. Andrew Wells, IT Manager for the Jackson Hole Airport, said “Situational awareness for our team and our clients allow us to be as secure and efficient as possible, with our small team. The flexibility of the open platform VMS allows us to scale our system and add the features we need now and in the future.” Jackson Hole Airport Jackson Hole Airport lies seven miles north of Jackson, Wyoming, at the base of the Teton Mountains, in the USA. It is unique for being entirely within the Grand Teton National Park limits. It is the busiest airport in the state of Wyoming, with nearly 500,000 in-bound passengers welcomed annually. The Jackson Hole Airport covers over 500 acres of land area and has one runway, nine boarding gates, and three baggage carousels.

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.

Carrier Global Corporation, a global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable, and intelligent building and cold chain solutions is delivering a full suite of innovative building technologies at Emory Healthcare’s new cutting-edge Musculoskeletal Institute (MSKI) in Atlanta, Georgia. Advanced solutions Carrier and Emory are collaborating to implement advanced solutions from Carrier’s Healthy Buildings Program – including HVAC, building automation, fire detection, access, and video management and digital services – at this state-of-the-art facility. Carrier’s portfolio features products that optimise indoor environments to improve occupant experience, operational efficiency, and inspire confidence in everything from physical safety and security to improved health, productivity, and cognitive performance. Eco-friendly building design Emory’s vision to be a model of transformative practices serves as the inspiration for the eco-friendly design" “Emory’s vision to be a model of transformative practices and sustainable choices at every level serves as the inspiration for the eco-friendly design of the building,” said Scott D. Boden, MD, Director of Emory MSKI and Professor and Chair of the Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine. To deliver this vision, it was important for Emory to partner with an innovative building technologies company like Carrier that provides the most advanced solutions. Intelligent technologies “At Carrier, we recognise the potential for indoor environments to help shape a healthier future. We are pleased to provide Emory’s MSKI with our full suite of intelligent building technologies. It’s through relationships built on a shared vision of innovation, that we can see the full potential of our technologies,” said Mead Rusert, President, Automated Logic Corporation, a Carrier Company. “I am confident that patients and staff will see and feel the benefits of the technologies in this world-class facility.” From the most fundamental elements of safety and security to the cognitive and health benefits of improved air quality and ventilation, Carrier’s high-performing building solutions at the Emory MSKI facility enhance the occupant experience. WebCTRL® building automation system WebCTRL helps customers achieve their sustainability and energy-efficiency goals by optimizing equipment At the core of the enhancements is the Automated Logic WebCTRL® building automation system, a powerful web-based platform that provides the MSK Facilities Team with software tools and insight to keep occupants comfortable while managing energy consumption and to identify, prioritise and analyse operational issues. WebCTRL helps customers achieve their sustainability and energy-efficiency goals by optimising equipment and proactively identifying issues. Carrier’s Abound IoT platform will integrate into WebCTRL and will monitor indoor air quality and operational performance, displaying the data on user-friendly dashboards in the main lobby and on MSK’s website. Safety and security MSK chose products from Carrier’s Fire & Security portfolio, including LenelS2 and Edwards, to enhance the safety and security of the facility. The LenelS2 OnGuard® access control system secures the facility by leveraging mobile credentialing technology through the MyWay app, eliminating a significant number of access touchpoints and affording a safer, more secure, healthier experience for building occupants. In addition, through LenelS2’s continued collaboration with Milestone Systems, a provider of video management software, MSKI operators benefit from a unified security management system that incorporates access control, video surveillance, and other technologies to help keep people and property safe. EST4 enhances system survivability through advanced encryption and safeguards, managing cyber threats EST4 emergency communications system The facility also utilises the Edwards EST4 premier emergency communications system. Featuring new network architecture, EST4 enhances system survivability through advanced encryption and safeguards, managing today's cyber threats. The system also benefits from Edwards’ Signature Optica™ detectors which distinguish between different types of fires, enhancing the protection of people and property, while reducing the number of false alarms that cause business interruption and unnecessary responses by fire departments. Location Located in Emory’s Executive Park health innovation district, Emory’s MSKI is a six-story,180,000 square-foot building that focuses on innovation, improving the patient experience and research while providing all musculoskeletal services in one convenient location for patients.

Sterling and Wilson, established in 1927, is currently having its corporate office in Mumbai, India. It is one of the turnkey MEP (Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing) Services Company with 60% of its business coming from electro-mechanical projects. Just as the company has been instrumental in pioneering MEP services in India, it has also executed several prestigious MEP projects internationally. Sterling and Wilson are expanding with approximately 10,000 employees located at various regional and branch offices and project sites. Challenges It was a herculean task for corporate HR to process staff salary and overtime from manually recorded attendance collected from all project sites. Managing the attendance of 10,000 employees distributed among regional/ branch offices and remote sites from a central location was a tedious task. Replacement of the existing manual attendance mechanism with automatic attendance marking functionality was the major requirement. Additionally, they wanted a wireless connectivity solution for managing remote project sites for error-free tracking and management of employee attendance. Matrix offered solution provides wireless connectivity to the server through 3G Internet Dongle to prevent loss of data Centralised time-attendance solution Matrix comprehensive solution offered centralised time-attendance solution to Sterling and Wilson connected all project sites with regional and branch offices and these offices to corporate head office. Matrix offered solution provides wireless connectivity option to the server through 3G Internet Dongle to prevent loss of data from remote locations. This ensures efficient data management in case of emergency like, internet connectivity failure during which all the events are stored in the device. Hence, the events can be restored easily as soon as it recovers their connection back to the server. The solution from Matrix offered integrations with third-party resource planning software-SAP to the client. Results Buddy punching or fraudulent time-keeping is eliminated Capturing the biometric attendance of all employees has smoothened HR's task Corporate HR can get real-time attendance of all employees at a central location Accurate in/out time of each employee is acquired Monthly salary and overtime are paid only when fingerprint-based in/out time for each The working day of every employee is obtained Any delay in projects due to employee attendance gets easily identified Products offered COSEC CENTRA ACM: Access Control Software Module COSEC CENTRA TAM: Time-Attendance Software Module COSEC PANEL LITE: One Site Controller for Every Building or Location up to 255 Doors COSEC DOOR FOT: Standard Optical Fingerprint and RFID Card based Door Controller COSEC PATH DCFE: Standard Optical Fingerprint and RFID Card based Door Controller

UNC Greensboro (UNCG) is one of 17 campuses within the University of North Carolina system. Founded in 1891, UNCG is the largest and most diverse university in the Piedmont Triad region, serving more than 20,000 students and employing approximately 2,800 faculty members. UNC Greensboro (UNCG) The university is in the heart of Greensboro, which boasts nearly 260,000 people, making it visible within the larger community as well. Landlocked by local streets, the 200-acre campus with 30 buildings poses unique security issues, as it is crisscrossed with major roads, making it a priority to ensure pedestrian and bicycle safety. UNCG has its own police department (UNCG PD), with more than 40 members, who ensure the safety of the campus As a public institution, UNCG is also largely open to the community and hosts numerous events, activities, and services, which are regularly accessed by residents of nearby neighbourhoods and the city of Greensboro at large. UNCG has its own police department (UNCG PD), with more than 40 members, who ensure the safety of the campus. UNCG PD relies on its video surveillance system to alert them to incidents, record video for forensic purposes, and also provide video analytics for traffic and crowd control. Proactive video surveillance and camera system With a growing campus and rising security needs, UNCG PD, with the help of its systems integrator, NETCom Cabling and Security Systems, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, recognised it required a more efficient and proactive video surveillance and camera management system. The days when DVRs could provide the necessary recorded data quickly, gave way to the need for a more responsive approach, such as a shared enterprise system, to bring together cameras, recording, and the intelligent usage of both. The exacqVision platform and Z-Series video recorders UNCG PD’s foray beyond the NVR/DVR world began with the installation of the exacqVision platform, starting with its Z-Series recorders, to cover its parking decks. From there, it began to incorporate a hybrid platform, including exacqVision VMS, to support the analogue cameras used for the parking decks, as well as the IP cameras being installed for security elsewhere. The migration began several years ago, but today the campus boasts nearly 900 cameras in use, with about 700 IP and the remainder analogue. Each recorder can handle up to 128 IP cameras and 64 analogue ones, and it works with thousands of IP camera models. Within that time, the UNCG PD has also grown to become a state-of-the-art department, with its own command and emergency operations centre, where it can monitor and manage its video surveillance system. Intuitive video surveillance system In selecting the exacqVision Z-Series, UNCG’s police department was seeking an intuitive system In selecting the exacqVision Z-Series, UNCG’s police department was seeking an intuitive system that would put the necessary information at the fingertips of whosoever was on duty. It was also critical to deploy a system with built-in redundancy, to protect against any data loss, in the event of a power issue or system fail. “It’s a pretty easy end-user experience for our officers, without a lot of technological background,” said Joshua Green, Technical Services Analyst for the UNCG PD. Scalable video security system The software within the system makes it simple to perform tasks, such as playing back recordings or searching for data, using a single screen. One of the biggest benefits of the Z-Series is its scalability, offering one of the largest processors and fastest speeds of the DVRs on the market. The system’s design also makes it easy to add new cameras and licensing. One of the common usages of the exacqVision platform is for traffic management. Using the video from the exacqVision system, they can perform tasks, such as counting parking spaces, to know when a parking lot is full, as well as to watch crosswalks, to see how pedestrian and vehicle traffic is moving, or where people are congregating. Key inputs for efficient resource allocation It can also be used to help the police department determine where to put resources. For example, how many people are in the workout room and does that area need extra patrols, or are there concerns about equipment in the computer lab and how should that be monitored? There is also time savings to be gained, by working with exacqVision VMS platform There is also time savings to be gained, by working with exacqVision VMS platform, a system that lets the user easily search recorded video, with a timeline search. Green recalled an instance when someone was concerned that an iPad had been stolen, but a quick check of the video showed within a matter of minutes that the item had been safety stored away, rather than taken. UNCG, NETCom and Intelligent Marketing Inc. partnership As a long-time user of the Z series and exacqVision VMS, UNCG, NETCom and Intelligent Marketing Inc. are quick to share their success stories and concerns to improve the product. “These guys, (Tim Reese, Sergeant for the technical services area, and Green), are working with Exacq engineers on changes that everyone will benefit from,” such as improvements to the mapping feature,” said Bob Moulton, North Carolina’s Territory Manager for Intelligent Marketing, a security manufacturer representative firm that works closely with end-user customers. Smart video surveillance solution The ability to make integrations down the road, because of the scalability of the system, whether it’s adding card access or expanding the number of cameras, makes the Z-Series a smart strategic investment for the university. We are looking to the future of our surveillance system to ensure the safety of the university’s students" “We are looking to the future of our surveillance system to ensure the safety of the university’s students, faculty and visitors,” said Tim Reese, Sergeant for the technical services area, adding “Migrating to and implementing a new NVR platform provides the university with an important foundation for future surveillance capabilities and usability.” Implementing new NVR platform Systems integrator, NETCom Cabling and Security Systems concurred with those sentiments. “We enjoyed the opportunity to collectively work together with the University of North Carolina’s police department and Intelligent Marketing Inc. to support the University’s goal of continuously making improvements to ensure the campus remains secure,” said Aaron Spivey, Director of Security at NETcom Cabling. Aaron Spivey adds, “Together, we’ve achieved that objective and we look forward to continuing to work together in the future.” Security system providers: Intelligent Marketing Inc., based in Haverhill, Massachusetts., works in concert with manufacturers, distributors, specifiers, and integrators to assist with system design and specifications. Intelligent Marketing Inc. delivers proactive customer service, training, and support from project inception to completion, and more. NETcom Cabling and Security Systems, Greensboro, North Carolina, has been in business since 1990, specialising in category 5e/6 and 6a copper, indoor/outdoor fiber installations, card access, cameras, perimeter detection, gate entry systems, paging and AV solutions. NETcom has the capabilities to create comprehensive commercial cabling and security plans, through its in-house CAD department.

Residential security and smart homes are rapidly changing facets of the larger physical security marketplace, driven by advances in consumer technology and concerns about rising crime rates. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people spent more time at home and became more aware of the need for greater security. As workplaces opened back up, returning workers turned to technology to help them keep watch over their homes from afar. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the trends in residential security in 2021?

Perimeter security is the first line of defence against intruders entering a business or premises. Traditionally associated with low-tech options such as fencing, the field of perimeter security has expanded in recent years and now encompasses a range of high-tech options. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the latest trends in perimeter security technology?

In the past few weeks, the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel has brightened, providing new levels of hope that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. Dare we now consider what life will be like after the pandemic is over? Considering the possible impact on our industry, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which security technologies will be most useful in a post-pandemic world?