Indoor surveillance

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.

Johnson Controls has announced the expansion of its high-resolution IP camera portfolio with new models of Illustra Flex Mini-Domes and Box IP cameras in 4K resolution. These new cameras are designed to offer a high-image quality and feature rich surveillance option intended for a wide range of applications. The Flex 4K cameras provide increased detail and efficient bandwidth management technology for both indoor and outdoor models. The versatile Illustra Flex cameras feature effective bandwidth management technology and highly reliable and redundant recording features that ensure continuous and cost-efficient video streaming. Illustra IntelliZip compression technology provides powerful dynamic bandwidth management beyond H.264 and H.265 to offset increased video storage requirements from high-resolution video recording. The Flex Mini-Domes feature day/night capabilities and offer a P-Iris lens, which delivers clear video and improved depth of field in changing light Day/night and WDR capabilities For crystal clear images day and night, the versatile Illustra Flex cameras are True Day/Night and feature True Wide Dynamic Range for balanced images in challenging lighting conditions. The affordable and compact Illustra Flex Box Camera is best suited for small to medium size offices, retail boutiques, schools, and bank branches looking for a cost-effective camera. The Flex Mini-Domes feature the same day/night capabilities, but also offer a P-Iris lens, which delivers clear video and improved depth of field in changing light. In addition, the outdoor Flex Mini-Dome features built-in IR illuminators to produce clear images at an effective distance in a variety of low light conditions. The Flex Mini-Domes and Box adhere to the rigorous security standards of the Tyco Cyber Protection Product Security Program. The holistic cyber approach begins at initial design concept, continues through product development, and is supported through deployment, including a rapid incident response to meet the comprehensive and evolving cybersecurity environments.

Hanwha Techwin and analytic specialists A.I Tech have jointly engineered affordable, single device intruder detection solutions which provides maximum detection, whilst significantly reducing the impact of time consuming and costly false alarms. The Wisenet Intrusion Detection solutions are supplied ready to work out-of-box. By harnessing the massive processing power of the chipset at the heart of Wisenet X cameras with A.I. Tech’s intelligent video analytics, the combined solutions provide reliable detection regardless of the lighting conditions or the presence of shadows or reflections. The Wisenet AI-Intrusion-PRO solution takes advantage of the superb quality images captured by the 2 megapixel network Wisenet XNO-6020R/INT IR bullet camera Wisenet AI-Intrusion-PRO solution The advanced intelligence and artificial vision algorithms incorporated into A.I. Tech’s powerful analytics engine have been developed as a result of 25 years experience of designing innovative and intelligent video analysis solutions which operate effectively in both indoor and outdoor environments. The Wisenet AI-Intrusion-PRO solution takes advantage of the superb quality images captured by the 2 megapixel network Wisenet XNO-6020R/INT IR bullet camera, which when combined with A.I. Tech’s intelligent video analytics, provides accurate detection of any activity in prohibited zones. For site perimeter security purposes, it is also able to detect people or objects crossing multi- tripwire virtual lines which can be remotely configured. Reporting real-time intruder activity The Wisenet XNO-6020R/INT camera can be configured to report intruder activity via FTP or email. Alarm events verified by A.I. Tech analytics, together with the associated images captured by the Wisenet XNO-6020R/INT IR camera, are managed by Wisenet network video recorders (NVRs). They are also supported by Wisenet WAVE and SSM Video Management Software, as well as selected other VMS, such as Milestone Xprotect. Supplied pre-loaded on the 2 megapixel Wisenet XNO-6020R/SEC IR bullet camera, the edge-based dashboard can be accessed remotely by a web browser AI-Security-DASH solution The Wisenet AI-Security-DASH solution shares all the features and functions of Wisenet AI-Intrusion-PRO and, in addition, offers convenient, ‘easy on the eye’ reporting via a dashboard. Supplied pre-loaded on the 2 megapixel Wisenet XNO-6020R/SEC IR bullet camera, the edge-based dashboard can be accessed remotely by a web browser. When multiple cameras are deployed, there is the option to run the dashboard on a server. Wisenet AI-Security-DASH is also available with the choice of two additional modules: AI-LOITERING offers the opportunity to detect suspicious behaviour of people remaining in a given area for longer than a pre-configured period of time. This feature has an accuracy of more than 90% where the subject is not hidden from view for 95% or more of the time and provided they only remain hidden for less than 2 seconds. AI-LOST is designed to detect objects in public areas such airports, bus and train stations which appear to have been abandoned over a period of 1-10 minutes. It is also able to detect the removal of objects, e.g. the theft of paintings or artefacts on open display at a museum.

Oncam, global provider of 360-degree video capture and business intelligence technology, has announced partnership with BDF Sicurezza Latina to provide the company's full suite of products to Italy as the country's first Oncam distributor. The strategic partnership offers customers the ability to incorporate Oncam's innovative technology into their security plan to help increase situational awareness and aid in investigations. The new 180-degree product range delivers something truly unique to the market and we are excited to introduce it to our customers" Oncam-BDF collaboration Serving a number of vertical markets, such as banking, commercial and enterprise, airports and transportation, and smart city, BDF has 30 years of experience providing security and automation technology to protect people and assets from threats. Adding Oncam's products to the solutions the company allows BDF the ability to diversify its video surveillance offering for the Italian market.  “The Oncam technology offers exceptional image quality and a strong product line that delivers a variety of form factors to our customers,” said Benito De Filippis, Founder, BDF. “In particular, the new 180-degree product range delivers something truly unique to the market and we are excited to introduce it to our customers.”  Intelligent surveillance solutions As part of the agreement, BDF will sell the Oncam suite of intelligent surveillance solutions, including its award-winning Evolution camera range, which includes both 5MP and 12MP 360- and 180-degree models, and are available in a variety of enclosures, including indoor, outdoor, recessed, concealed, mini, stainless steel, explosion-proof and more. Oncam also provides users with an innovative de-warping experience and integrates seamlessly with the industry's leading NVR/VMS partners as part of the ONVIF Profile S standard. “BDF has a wealth of experience in Italy and truly understands the varied challenges that customers face within this market,” said Simon Reed, Vice President Sales, EMEA and Asia, Oncam. “The company's dedication to listening to what the customer needs from a security solution, as well as their attention to training and support, are in line with Oncam's mission to provide innovative technology that is supported by dealers dedicated to customer service and experience.”

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions, is pleased to introduce its SE2 Series IP Cameras. The new camera line delivers 1080p video and a comprehensive range of advanced features for indoor and outdoor applications. It also incorporates a smart low bit rate (LBR) setting that reduces bandwidth and storage consumption by 50% or more, making the SE2 Series IP cameras a cost-effective option for businesses with dozens or hundreds of surveillance cameras.  Compatible with all March Networks video recording platforms, including the 8000 Series and 9000 Series video recorders and Command Recording Server (CRS) software, the cameras are also easily managed with powerful March Networks Command Enterprise video management software. Command Enterprise enables customers to administer the complete video solution more effectively, and benefit from capabilities such as centralised video management, mass camera management and system health monitoring. The SE2 Series cameras are also compatible with third-party video recording systems via the ONVIF Profile S standard. Organisations can choose from three distinct SE2 Series models, each available with multiple mounts and accessories. These include: The SE2 Indoor NanoDome, a low-profile dome with an extra-wide, 134-degree field of view (FOV) enables organisations to monitor an entire area with a single camera SE2 Indoor NanoDome and IR Dome cameras The SE2 Indoor NanoDome, a low-profile dome with an extra-wide, 134-degree field of view (FOV) that enables organisations to monitor an entire area with a single camera. In surface mount applications, all wires terminate inside the camera, eliminating the need for a separate side cable access housing. Other key features include a 3-axis gimbal for simple positioning during installation, and a 90-degree hallway mode rotation to better capture vertically-oriented scenes.  The SE2 Indoor IR Dome ensures high-quality video capture in challenging lighting conditions, including bright sunlight and complete darkness, through a combination of High Dynamic Range (HDR) and integrated infrared (IR) LEDs. The camera also incorporates hallway mode and helps speed installations with features including remote zoom and focus, and a convenient EMT mount that attaches directly to an unthreaded pipe – ideal for high ceiling installations.  SE2 Outdoor IR Dome camera The SE2 Outdoor IR Dome, a ruggedised dome protected by a weather-proof (IP66), vandal-resistant (IK10) enclosure to ensure optimum performance in all climates. The camera’s integrated HDR, IR and P-IRIS deliver clear, focused video capture in varying lighting and regardless of an object’s distance within its FOV. Similar to the other SE2 models, the camera incorporates hallway mode. It also includes a 3-axis gimbal and remote zoom and focus. For ease-of-service, each SE2 Series camera comes with a unique QR code that technicians can scan with their smartphone or tablet using March Networks’ free GURU Smartphone Application. The combination of high-performance and affordability will make these cameras a popular choice in new and existing installations" Time and cost savings The combined functionality enables technicians to access product serial numbers, warranty status, video tutorials and product manuals, run installation audits, submit an express RMA and more – saving them valuable time and cost. “We are thrilled to add these SE2 Series IP cameras to our portfolio,” said Nathan Dinning, Edge Devices Product Manager, March Networks. “They expand the range of IP cameras our customers can choose from and are a full-featured option for applications such as warehouses, grocery stores and big-box formats with many cameras and few ultra-high definition requirements." "They are also our company’s lowest-cost camera offering to date, and we expect the combination of high-performance and affordability will make them a popular choice in new and existing installations.”

Infrared (IR) illumination provides a highly-effective enhancement for video surveillance in complete darkness. Axis Communications unveiled several new network cameras featuring its IR functionality, including pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) and fixed dome cameras, bullet, fisheye and panoramic cameras, and discreet sensors units. Together, these bring IR capability to almost any surveillance environment and answer an increased market demand. IR’s ability to allow cameras to literally ‘see in the dark’ is an obvious additional benefit to video surveillance for a number of reasons, from allowing 24/7 surveillance without the need for additional lighting to enabling ultra-discreet surveillance in sensitive locations. By launching several new cameras which feature built-in IR illumination, Axis is delivering the benefits of IR in the most cost-efficient, easily installed way to almost any indoor or external surveillance need. Axis OptimizedIR technology, featured in some of the new models, is the company’s own smart, power-efficient and patented IR LED technology Integrating OptimizedIR technology into network cameras In addition, Axis OptimizedIR technology, featured in some of the new models, is the company’s own smart, power-efficient and patented IR LED technology. It optimally uses the light to enable an even illumination over the complete camera view. Peter Rietz, Director, Product Management at Axis Communications, commented: “It is always our intention to develop cameras that offer maximum value to our customers. Being able to integrate OptimizedIR in a broader range of our network cameras and a variety of form factors means that customers have more ability than ever before to reap the benefits of IR. Indeed, we can see IR capabilities as a more and more required feature in the future.” AXIS Q6125-LE dome camera for city surveillance With OptimizedIR reaching 200 m (656 ft) or more, combined with a directionally discreet and compact dome design, makes this camera perfect for city surveillance applications. The built-in IR LEDs are seamlessly adaptable to the camera zoom, while Axis Sharpdome technology provides full scene fidelity and sharp images both above and below the horizon. In addition to these features, AXIS Q6125-LE delivers HDTV 1080p with fantastic image quality, 30x optical zoom, speed dry function and includes AXIS Guard Suite analytics. AXIS M3057-PLVE features a 6-megapixel sensor, while AXIS M3058-PLVE features a 12-megapixel sensor and stereographic lens Single-sensor panoramic cameras With great overall performance and capabilities such as Axis OptimizedIR, Lightfinder, Forensic WDR and Zipstream technologies, these new single-sensor panoramic cameras are perfect for providing 180°/360° coverage indoors as well as outdoors. AXIS M3057-PLVE features a 6-megapixel sensor, while AXIS M3058-PLVE features a 12-megapixel sensor and stereographic lens. The design focus has been to provide flat, discreet and easy-to-install cameras, and they arrive from the factory ready-focused. Bullet cameras for day/night surveillance As new additions to AXIS P14 Series of compact and cost-effective, outdoor-ready bullet cameras, AXIS P1447-LE and AXIS P1448-LE add several features to the series to support all-round, day and night surveillance with excellent image quality in any light condition. AXIS P1447-LE brings 5 MP resolution, while AXIS P1448-LE features 8.3 MP / 4K Ultra HD resolution. Both new cameras include support for audio, wider temperature specifications, IK10 and shock detection, in addition to OptimizedIR. Supporting ForensicWDR in addition to built-in IR illumination, this 1080p sensor unit delivers outstanding image quality, 24/7 AXIS FA3105-L 1080p sensor unit Axis is launching its first sensor unit with built-in IR illumination in the modular camera category, AXIS FA3105-L. With its small size and eyeball design, the sensor unit is ideally suited for installation together with other sensor units and AXIS FA54 Main Unit, to meet the varying surveillance needs in retail. Supporting ForensicWDR in addition to built-in IR illumination, this 1080p sensor unit delivers outstanding image quality, 24/7. 8-megapixel camera with four varifocal lenses AXIS P3717-PLE sets a new bar for multidirectional cameras in terms of image quality, performance and features. This compact 8-megapixel camera with its four varifocal lenses enables high-quality 360° overview and details in multiple directions – making it ideal for surveillance of wide areas, outer corners of buildings, and intersections of hallways or roads. With 360° IR illumination, Forensic WDR, Lightfinder and Zipstream, this camera delivers excellent image quality in all light conditions. With just one IP address and one network cable needed, alongside remote zoom and focus, the four-camera-in-one unit provides a flexible and cost-effective solution.

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 centers 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 Center (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.”

A safe school environment is a prerequisite for productive learning. When students feel as though their safety is compromised, this affects their learning performance. To enhance levels of security, it’s important to know which methods of lockdown are suited and which should be avoided. Andrew Shaw, architectural consultant for Allegion UK, discusses the importance of bespoke security solutions and prioritising quality. He says, 'Students need to feel safe in order to learn.' Safe and secure classroom environment Research has shown that classroom climate – all of the characteristics of a classroom – correlates with student achievement. This means that if students feel unsafe, it’s likely to affect their performance. However, because there’s no single, 'one size fits all' answer to security, implementing the 'right' solution may seem like a minefield. On top of knowing specific performance requirements, school governing bodies must know which locking protocols to adhere to and which to avoid School lockdown protocols Because of this, it’s now more important than ever that school officials not only know the options available to them but are also making decisions tailored to their own individual requirements. On top of knowing specific performance requirements, school governing bodies must know which locking protocols to adhere to and which to avoid. Security at every layer A safe and secure environment is at the crux of every successful school strategy. When it comes to classroom security, significance should be placed on how staff and teachers can maximise their protection and that of students. The key to any successful classroom lockdown operation is selecting the appropriate credentials based on individual requirements. Selecting appropriate credentials In addition to this, one thing that various credentials are often accused of is being too costly an investment to step into. In reality, a limited budget shouldn’t put a compromise on high-quality products. That’s not to ignore the fact that many schools are under budget pressures. However, the scope of security solutions available to the UK market means that schools are able to find solutions suited to their needs and budget. Implementing an effective lockdown safety plan, including staff protocol and places to hide, can also help you in being prepared for critical situations Dos There are a number of baseline protocols to uphold to ensure classroom security is kept at an all-time high. For example, remembering to keep doors closed and locked while rooms are in use will enable faster lockdown in emergency situations. Implementing an effective lockdown safety plan, including staff protocol and places to hide, can also help you in being prepared for critical situations. Installing hardware suited to your needs – whether mechanical, electronic or a combination – are each beneficial for everyday use as well as in emergencies. Don’ts There are some measures that don’t mitigate risk, they instead put staff and students in greater danger. It’s easy to overlook what may seem a harmless practice, but which is actually a violation of safety regulations – such as propping doors open and locking emergency exits. All entrances should aid free access and egress, not only for ease of passage but also in the event that emergency responders may be called to the site Cutting out unauthorised access All entrances should aid free access and egress, not only for ease of passage but also in the event that emergency responders may be called to the site. With locking credentials, it’s also important to keep control of who can access the buildings so that unauthorised persons are on record. Electronic access control systems, for example, are designed for stricter security on who has access to a site and at which time it was accessed. Electronic door access control Furthermore, one of the biggest fallacies in the door hardware industry is that quality must be compromised to make room for affordability. Whilst this could have been put down to a lack of choice years and years ago, there are now products tailored to each and every need notwithstanding limitations such as budgets. On top of this, it’s no use to switch out to a cheaper, less safe product that could ultimately cost more in the long-term if you’re to consider maintenance costs. Areas such as building entrances, must balance the need for access control with accessibility and freedom of movement The myth of ‘one size fits all’ Every school is as diverse as the people it houses. Multiple types of credentials may be used within a school, depending on your unique needs. Particular aspects that ought to be given consideration are the severity and probability of any potential risks, the effectiveness of mitigating potential risks, the ability of staff to implement lockdown, and the school’s budget. Areas such as building entrances, for example, must balance the need for access control with accessibility and freedom of movement.