Industrial security systems

Dahua Technology, a solution provider in the global video surveillance industry, announces that a high-level taskforce has been established within the company to improve sales order of its products in the international security market, better safeguarding consumer rights. Stringent quality checks As a publicly listed company committed to its social responsibility, Dahua Technology understands that consumer rights must be respected and protected, especially their privacy. Thus, the original software of Dahua Technology’s official products comes with information protection functionalities, and is supported with subsequent patch fixes to ensure continuous and reliable information security. What’s more, before leaving Dahua Technology's production facilities, every product passes probably the most stringent quality checks before entering the market through officially authorised channels. All those channels are set up to provide standard technical support and after sales services. Corporate level committee However, in recent years, Dahua Technology has received complaints from consumers about alleged Dahua distributors promoting so called ‘Dahua products’ and enticing consumers to purchase, without any technical support or after-sale service guarantees. Such cases have misled some consumers into believing that Dahua Technology runs businesses disregarding social commitment. This has to some extent caused severe company image damage to Dahua Technology. To guarantee consumers to enjoy the genuine products and services promised by Dahua Technology, it has set up a corporate level committee in 2018. Furthermore, Dahua Technology promises to keep investing resources to further improve sales order and constantly upgrade anti-tamper technologies, better protecting consumer rights. With a mission of ‘Enabling a Safer Society and Smarter Living’, Dahua will continue to focus on ‘Innovation, Quality, and Service’, to serve partners and customers around the world.

Antaira Technologies a global developer and manufacturer of industrial networking devices and communication solutions for harsh environment applications and is proud to announce the expansion of its industrial networking infrastructure family with the introduction of the LNP-1600G, -1802G-SFP, and -2004G-SFP series. As PoE technology has become increasingly popular in many industrial markets including automation manufacturing, security surveillance, power/utility, water wastewater treatment plants, oil/gas/mining, and transportation industries have adopted PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) ready devices; such as, cameras, VoIP phones, wireless radios, and access controllers into their production networks. Works in harsh environments Antaira’s LNP series work well in harsh or outdoor environments that require rugged power sourcing equipment (PSE) with high-density Ethernet port connectivity, wide bandwidth, long-distance data transmission, and reliability. Antaira Technologies’ LNP-1600G, -1802G-SFP, and -2004G-SFP series are the latest industrial Gigabit unmanaged Ethernet switch series that offer high density for sixteen full gigabit Ethernet ports (-1600G, -1802G-SFP, and -2004G-SFP) with each port supporting PSE maximum of 30W and have two or four SFP gigabit fibre slots (-1802G-SFP and -2004G-SFP) for long distance connectivity. These product series have an IP30 rated metal casing design that can support DIN-Rail and wall mountable orientations. Overload current and reverse polarity prevention The devices provide a dual redundant power input range of 48 to 55VDC with an overload current and reverse polarity prevention. The series also has a high EFT, surge protection (2,000VDC), and ESD (6,000VDC) protection. Additionally, there is a built-in relay warning function to alert maintainers when power failures occur. Each unit is built to withstand industrial networking hazards like shock, drop, vibration, electromagnetic interference (EMI) and temperature extremes. Wide operating temperature version options include a standard (-10° ~ 65°C) model or an extended (-40° ~ 75°C) model. The units conform to the following dimensions of 67mm (W) x 99mm (D) x 142mm (H) and a unit weight of 2.69 pounds (LNP-1600G and LNP-1802G-SFP) or 2.75 pounds (LNP-2004G-SFP).

People and vehicle access control specialist Nortech is now offering elegant stainless steel bollards to house the Nedap ANPR cameras. The SSP-ANPR and SSDP-ANPR stainless steel posts by Nortech are each designed to house either a Nedap ANPR Access or a Nedap ANPR Access-HD camera in an attractive roadside post/bollard. The SSDP-ANPR is a dual height post that includes integral traffic signals. Extensive experience The ANPR camera is mounted at the ideal height (585mm to lens) for reading standard number plates. It is contained within the body of the post with no restriction to either the lens or IR lighting. Once fitted, the rear of the camera can be accessed via a service panel. It incorporates a 300mm base plate with slotted holes which allow easy adjustment during installation. The traffic signal mounted at the top of the SSDP-ANPR may be controlled directly from the access controller or barrier logic using individual 24V control signals for each of the red and green LED clusters.           Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

The security industry is driven by a constant stream of new innovations. However, innovation can have a negative knock-on effect when it leads to increased complexity, makes installation more complicated, set-up more confusing and operations more strenuous. It is a guiding principle that means every technical and software innovation is designed around the people who matter the most: installers, users, operators, integrators and IT specialists. UserFirst ensures every innovation not only advances the safety and security of people and property, but also makes the usability of the technology or software as smart and intuitive as the innovation itself. Enhanced user experience BVMS offers full scalability, enabling the expansion of video surveillance systems according to specific requirements UserFirst is a principle that Bosch believes will help drive innovation in the future because, as a company, they understand that advances in technology or software only become truly meaningful when they put the user at the centre of every innovation. The latest Bosch Video Management System 9.0 does exactly this. Originally launched in 2007, the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) provides seamless management and interpretation of digital video, audio and security data transmitted across IP networks in over 17,000 installations worldwide. BVMS offers full scalability, enabling the expansion of video surveillance systems according to specific requirements and the management of up to 200,000 cameras. The system also features technology that keeps operations functioning even when Management and Recording servers fail, so it is resilient and can be trusted. With the release of BVMS 9.0, Bosch is putting the operator first with an enhanced user experience, and reduced storage consumption. Supports intelligent streaming BVMS 9.0 fully supports Intelligent streaming, an advanced technology developed to substantially reduce bitrates without compromising image quality. This intelligent data management technology is offered built-in as standard in the majority of Bosch IP camera portfolio. Enabled by the camera’s built-in video analytics, Intelligent streaming smartly adjusts encoder settings based on movement in the whole, or in sections of the scene, to achieve the most efficient bitrate. Besides cost-efficiency, BVMS 9.0 introduces a completely renewed graphical user interface (GUI), including a unified colour scheme Combined with built-in Intelligent Dynamic Noise Reduction and H.265 video encoding, bitrates can be reduced by up to 80 percent. As a result, security managers or IT managers can substantially lower their storage costs and network strain. Besides cost-efficiency, BVMS 9.0 introduces a completely renewed graphical user interface (GUI), including a unified colour scheme, whilst alerts, maintenance messages and notifications are clearly displayed in colour against a dark grey background. Improved levels of security This development improves the levels of security considerably having been designed to ensure the operator’s attention is directly drawn to objects or events of significance. An additional advantage is the improved contrast between text (alerts, messages and notifications), camera footage and background (controls and operator menus) which relieve eye strain and reduces operator fatigue. Another ‘UserFirst’ innovation of BVMS 9.0 to enhance viewer options is the ability to display individual alarm set-ups, whereby alarms can be sequenced in priority then automatically appear on-screen, providing the operator with a complete overview of a situation and the ability to react quickly by eliminating the need to search through a list view with multiple alarms. The ability to limit the amount of camera views (cameos) on a single screen also saves time, as it avoids operators being overloaded with information. New interface and enhanced controls BVMS Plus is recommended for the video management of mid-sized applications with up to 256 video channels which need the flexibility to grow Moreover, BVMS 9.0 improves mouse-based control of pan-tilt-zoom cameras via a straightforward drag and drop mode, which simplifies the pursuit of moving objects. This new interface and enhanced controls have been specifically designed around the user, improving effectiveness, reducing fatigue-related errors and improving security and safety. The introduction of BVMS 9.0 will coincide with the renewal of the license model. In addition to the existing licenses, BVMS Plus will be introduced to make it easier and more flexible to scale up and meet new demands and expansions as they happen. BVMS Plus is recommended for video management of mid-sized applications with up to 256 video channels which need the flexibility to grow. When customer needs exceed 256 video channels BVMS Plus can be upgraded to BVMS Professional (up to 2,000 video channels), or BVMS Enterprise (up to 200,000 video channels). BVMS 9.0 has been designed to offer users an increase in performance, the ability to substantially improve levels of security and intelligent, intuitive usability. A prime example of UserFirst thinking, from Bosch.

Redvision, the manufacturer of high-performance, rugged CCTV cameras has added a PoE-driven, wiper option to its VEGA 2010, rugged camera, housing range. The Tru-park, silicon wiper removes dirt and water from the housing’s optically-correct, camera window. When not in use, the wiper is concealed behind the front bezel of the VEGA. Marine-grade plating Stephen Lightfoot, technical director at Redvision explains, “Wiper power comes from the PoE-driven, CHAT interface board. This also provides camera, washer and built-in heater power to the VEGA, along with audio communications.” “All VEGA 2010 rugged housings allow installers to fit their own camera and lens combinations, up to 290mm long. The VEGA is made from tough, die-cast aluminum, which is both IP67 weather-proof and IK10 impact rated. It has an integrated junction box and all cabling is managed through its wall or pedestal mounting brackets.” “The VEGA is finished with a marine-grade plating, followed by a tough powder-coating. It is available in a light grey (RAL 7035), as standard, but can be ordered in any other RAL colour, if required. It is without a doubt one of the toughest and most durable, rugged housings in the security industry.”

Hikvision, the provider of innovative security products and solutions, announces its third quarter financial results, showing a total operating income of RMB 12.93 billion, corresponding to year-over-year growth of 14.58%. Net profits attributable to shareholders of the company was RMB 3.25 billion, corresponding to year-over-year growth of 13.53%. Security industry growth From January to September in 2018, the company's accumulated operating income amounted to RMB 33.80 billion, with year-over-year growth of 21.90%; and accumulated net profits attributable to shareholders of the company amounted to RMB 7.40 billion, with year-over-year growth of 20.20%. During the 3rd quarter, the overall business environment faced by the company was challenging due to the slower pace of China’s economy and trade tensions abroad. Despite these factors, the company remains optimistic for the continuous security industry growth and demand for new technologies and solutions. It is also confident about the expectations for the fourth quarter and the full-year results.

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

Remember the old adage “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts?” Nowhere is that truism more evident than when you add network video to the current generation of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. Whether we’re talking about industrial IoT applications, “Smart – X” (city, building, parking etc.) or retail operations, integrating network video into the solution provides value far beyond simple situational awareness. Optimising sophisticated video technology When video systems first moved from analogue to digital and then became part of the IoT world, they were primarily used to provide visual validation of sensor-detected events. For instance, if an industrial controller sensed an environmental issue such as a temperature exceeding set threshold maximum limits, the sensor would trigger the management software to notify the operator that this event had occurred. The operator could then pull up the video feed of the closest camera and observe the area remotely. While this application is simple, it shows how video enhances sensor management.  As edge devices, such as sensors and network video become more intelligent, the interactions between systems are growing in sophistication and generating even greater value than each system could provide on its own.  To appreciate how these smart applications are being used to improve overall efficiencies and profitability, let’s delve into three areas where they’re being deployed: intelligent buildings, smart cities, and smart retailing.   By overlaying intelligent operational sensors with intelligent video, it’s now possible to automate lighting levels based on motion detection Video-based operational analytics Applying intelligent monitoring to environmental equipment (HVAC) makes it easy for building owners and property managers to determine existing operating costs based on current equipment performance. They can then compare that amount to the cost of upgrades and potential cost savings over time. Lighting is another significant operating cost within building management. By overlaying intelligent operational sensors with intelligent video (light sensors), it’s now possible to automate lighting levels based on motion detection. Lights can automatically turn on or off, brighten or dimmed, to eliminate wasteful energy consumption. With the addition of occupancy analytics via intelligent video, property managers can determine what caused the motion and learn other operational details such as occupancy counts. Did someone walk through and area causing lighting to turn on or up? Did they dwell in this area? These specifics can help managers efficiently optimise lighting controls and reduce the overall operating cost of the property. Businesses are also using smart applications to optimise allocation of desk space and conference areas. For instance, intelligent video can determine conference room occupancy (in use, number of people in room, free space even though showing booked) far better than stand-alone motion sensors. When tied to automated room assignment systems, the additional statistics provided by video analytics might suggest room changes based on room size and number of attendees through back-office applications such as Microsoft Outlook. These examples are just a few of a growing list of available video-based operational analytics currently on the market. Video analytics in smart cities Initial forays into smart city technologies such as smart lighting, smart grid, smart parking and so on relied on standalone sensor technologies. Their capabilities were good but limited. Smart Lighting for instance would use basic light detectors to turn street lighting. Smart Parking and traffic systems would use weight sensors to trigger vehicle counts, traffic signal changes or determine if a parking space was in use and paid for. Augmenting these applications with intelligent video and analytics, however, opens up a whole new world of additional details. In Smart Lighting, the video sensor can now trigger a change in lighting based on rules such as vehicular and pedestrian events. Video analytics can yield additional metadata such as vehicle type (commercial versus public use). Smart Parking becomes much more effective when you can begin to provide vehicle detail such as vehicle type or other information based on licence plate recognition. These additional details can help parking lots operate more efficiently and offer value-added services like space reservation and open space location notifications.  Augmenting smart city applications with intelligent video and analytics opens up a whole new world of additional details Smart Grid offers some less obvious but equally valuable system augmentation capabilities. We often associate Smart Grid with simple automated meter reading but these systems also traverse critical power infrastructure. Solution providers in this arena are now offering heightened asset and perimeter protection via integration of network-based radar detection with video and audio analytics. This strategic mix of technologies can be used to minimise false detection alarms, turn on/off or change lighting levels and point cameras to areas of interest for extremely effective and cost-effective perimeter security. Network video for retail intelligence Retailing was one of the earliest adopters of smart device integration with network video and video analytics to support loss prevention and customer safety. They’ve been using video to analyse customer traffic and behaviour in order to improve product placement, increase product sales, as well as cross-sell related items. Adding programmable “Digital Signage” to the mix created new opportunities to display targeted messages based on viewer demographics about additional products and services of potential interest. Integrating network video with point-of-sale terminals to reconcile cash register receipts, adding heat mapping analytics to study customer foot traffic patterns, measuring check out wait times to increase employee productivity and efficiency as well as improve the customer experience are just some of the ways retailers have applied the principles of IoT to their advantage. Overlay intelligent building controls and you can see the exponential power of integrating intelligent video with other IoT devices and systems. Retailing was one of the earliest adopters of smart device integration with network video and video analytics to support loss prevention and customer safety Minimising metadata overload Smart application integration produces an enormous amount of metadata. Collecting, transporting and synthesising this data into meaningful business intelligence can be daunting. It requires disciplined use of resources from the network infrastructure transporting the data locally to the various cloud technologies (private cloud, hybrid cloud, public cloud) storing and disseminating it securely.  Generally smart sensor data is fairly light weight in terms of actual data transmitted. Adding video elements can significantly increase bit-rate (bandwidth and storage) requirements. This highlights the need for the video to be more intelligent and interactive with the intelligent sensor and edge device technologies so that resources can be used more efficiently. Smart applications let you do that. You can fine tune video rules and optimise transmission based on retention value. You can program the video to sensor triggers or events, transmitting lower frame rate and resolution video for less interesting video and increasing the video settings when higher quality video is more relevant and valuable based on these sensor triggers. The back-end collectors of sensor metadata are becoming more mainstream and easier to operate.  In many sectors, service providers are offering management of this sensor output “As a Service.”  As smart IoT technology continues to mature, the benefits of integration between network video systems and other network solutions will only get better. We’re already seeing greater efficiency in operations as well as higher quantifiable returns on investment through cost savings and more in-depth, usable business intelligence.

Protecting the world’s critical infrastructure is a complex mission. Managing security for these facilities involves addressing a broad range of possible threats and vulnerabilities, from the intentional contamination of water supplies to the theft of equipment vital to electricity distribution.Vandalism, theft or deliberate sabotage — by terrorists or other criminals — are ever-present threats. The consequences of any security breach can be dire, both for the entities involved and for everyone who depends on the continuing operation of critical infrastructure — which is most of us. High-security locking As a tool to address the complex security scenarios facing critical infrastructure, locks are indispensable. In critical infrastructure environments, locks are often required to be resistant to extreme temperatures, dust and toxic substances, fire and explosions. Locks must also perform in environments that are even more challenging, including rain and manipulation. Critical infrastructure facilities can benefit from a high-security locking system that combines electronic and mechanical security; in effect, providing an intelligent combination of both. In this white paper, learn about the way that the CLIQ® locking system from ASSA ABLOY can simplify security and workflow for critical infrastructure entities, and some examples of how existing customers are using the technology. What's inside? The role of locking systems in critical infrastructure Meeting security and workflow requirements Addressing the critical infrastructure market The CLIQ® locking system from a global leader … and much more. Click Here to Download the White Paper Now!   Save Save Save Save Save

With a heritage stretching back over 500 years, Gebrüder Weiss is one of Europe’s oldest transport and logistics companies. Based in Vorarlberg, Austria and with more than 7,000 employees in 150 locations around the world, it is also one of the largest. Sony video security in logistics centers Customers of all sizes trust Gebrüder Weiss to ship their consignments quickly, safely and undamaged to their destination Customers of all sizes trust Gebrüder Weiss to ship their consignments quickly, safely and undamaged to their destination. To guarantee this and make the entire logistics chain traceable, the service provider relies on comprehensive video surveillance in its logistics centers, which is regularly updated to reflect the latest state of the art. Gebrüder Weiss has now expanded its existing monitoring solution at the company’s largest distribution centre in Maria Lanzendorf near Vienna that previously featured almost 500 Sony cameras and Milestone's video management software (VMS). This has been supplemented with the addition of 33 Sony SNC-VM772R 4K video security cameras. Sony 4K cameras The upgrade ensures greater security, comprehensive package tracking and the ability to track any damage. The new Sony 4K cameras are used mainly to monitor reloading from larger trailers into smaller trucks. Their field of view covers the actual transfer area as well as the interior of the trailers and conveyor belts. The SNC-VM772R features a large CMOS sensor with 4K resolution that combines excellent image quality and large depth of field, even in difficult lighting conditions. The camera’s robust design with integrated image stabilization ensures smooth, clear video images despite vibration, dust and exhaust fumes from passing trucks. Video monitoring The new 4K cameras can track several objects simultaneously with either VGA or Full HD resolution The cameras’ installation ensures that the entire transshipment area is monitored at all times, with no blind spots caused by vehicles or pallets. In addition, the new 4K cameras can track several objects simultaneously with either VGA or Full HD resolution. The SNC-VM772R's 20-megapixel image sensor also enables capture of high-resolution Evidence Shots – still images with greater than 4K resolution that allow even the smallest details to be viewed clearly. For Gebrüder Weiss, the Sony solution is thus an outstanding alternative to multiple PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) cameras or multi-sensor systems. Installation and integration into the existing environment were carried out by local Sony partner ÖWD Österreichischer Wachdienst Security & Services. With 2,800 employees, ÖWD is one of the largest security companies in Austria and maintains 24/7 technical teams in all Austrian states. "Since it opened in 2006 we have been using Sony cameras at our terminal in Maria Lanzendorf, which is our largest in the world" says Werner Drnec, Operations Manager at Gebrüder Weiss, Maria Lanzendorf. "Both the image quality and reliability – with failure rates close to zero – have always exceeded our expectations, and even in the current project they proved themselves in a direct comparison. Our confidence in the Sony brand plus easy, seamless integration into our existing environment added to this."

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tebian Electric Apparatus Stock Co., Ltd. (TBEA), Shenyang Transformer Group Co., Ltd. (Shenyang TBEA) is one of the largest transformer manufacturers in China, and a major exporter in the industry with manufacturing and R&D capabilities. Shenyang TBEA is the first transformer company publicly listed in China and has an annual productivity that has reached 30 million kilovolt-ampere (KVA). It is the only company that provides 840,000 KVA/500KV main transformers and converter transformers for the left bank of the Three Gorges Project. Shenyang TBEA has a world-class industrial park occupying 720,000 square meters for production of UHV AC and DC electricity transformers. Featuring dispersed entry points over a large area, the company needed a new access control system to safeguard the plant’s integrated factory, R&D building, administrative offices, elevators, mixed working areas and key equipment rooms. Access control system with TCP/IP connection Shenyang TBEA required specific technical features for the new physical access system including TCP/IP connection and high-speed processors In particular, stringent access control for the general manager’s office, financial department, conference rooms, elevators, and core mechanical room was mandatory and the new system needed to also perform time and attendance and data generation for night patrol. In addition to security and stability, the access control system needed to enable seamless integration with the plant’s existing security equipment from third-party vendors, and be interoperable with the cards already deployed in the field to save cost. To address these challenges, Shenyang TBEA required specific technical features for the new physical access system including TCP/IP connection and high-speed processors, as well as data generation and communication capabilities. In addition, each access point needed to execute all commands offline in case of network failure. Centralised web-based access control solution After a thorough analysis of Shenyang TBEA’s requirements, HID Global provided a comprehensive solution that included 17 VertX V1000 network controllers, 107 VertX V100 door/reader interfaces, 173 iCLASS R10 contactless smart card readers and ten iCLASS R30 contactless smart card readers. The new system leverages Shenyang TBEA’s existing TCP/IP network for a centralised, web-based access control solution that provides central monitoring, report generation, the ability to establish staff access level settings and visitor management. The security officer on duty can then verify the employee’s identity to prevent unauthorised entry, enhancing the efficiency and internal security  iCLASS R10 and iCLASS R30 readers are installed at each access point and connected to VertX V1000 network controllers through the VertX 100 reader interface to transfer entry records to the host. Each entry point can still execute all commands when communication is lost with the central station. By integrating with the system software, the administrator can restrict staff access based on job function. For example, only authorised staff members are allowed to use the elevator to access specific floors. Enhancing security by preventing unauthorised entry HID Global’s solutions also meet Shenyang TBEA’s access control system requirements and perform the following functionality: Staff management: The solution is integrated with system software and main entrance and factory monitors. When a cardholder presents his/her card to the reader, the cardholder information and photo is displayed on the monitors. The security officer on duty can then verify the employee’s identity to prevent unauthorised entry, enhancing the efficiency and internal security. Enhanced Security: HID Global’s iCLASS readers and credentials deliver increased security with the readers’ data encryption and mutual authentication capabilities. Additionally, HID Global’s VertX networked access solutions enable access level settings and area control to prevent unauthorised entry to specific areas. All employees must present their cards when entering or leaving the main gate of the site, and the entry records are transmitted to the central server to further improve security management. Integration with surveillance and fire control systems When any abnormal alarm signals are received, the new access control system can activate a pop-up camera to perform video monitoring and screen capture Interoperability: VertX access control solutions are interoperable with a wide range of hardware and management software, enabling additional deployments such as time and attendance, remote area control, visitor management and more. The readers support the factory’s existing MIFARE credentials, offsetting the cost of swapping out all of the cards at once. Integration with other sub-systems: The solution can seamlessly integrate with multiple sub-systems such as surveillance and fire control systems. When any abnormal alarm signals are received, the new access control system can activate a pop-up camera to perform video monitoring and screen capture. For fire control, the system can determine the incident type and location and unlock emergency doors for evacuation in the case of a fire. Lifetime warranty on products and solutions “After our extensive assessment, we selected HID Global and its physical access control solutions for its leading technology and comprehensive product functionality. We had an experience where some HID Global controllers were accidentally submerged under water and the products still functioned properly without any defects, validating HID Global’s robust product design and quality,” said Mr. Yu Liuyi, project manager with Shenyang TBEA. “As a global leader in secure identity solutions, HID Global offers a lifetime warranty to their customers. HID Global and its channel partners has promptly responded to our requests and provided quality support to achieve satisfying results, eliminating our concern regarding post-sales service and support,” Liuyi added.

CriticalArc has announced that it has been appointed by FCC Group (FCC) – a global provider of environmental services, water management and infrastructure works, headquartered in Spain – to help develop and implement SafeZone as a multinational safeguarding solution for all its employees and any accompanying family members while they are working overseas on company projects. CriticalArc’s pioneering SafeZone personal protection and emergency response system is already being used by FCC as part of their initial deployment phase in three very different security challenges: for the FAST consortium to design and build the Riyadh Metro in Saudi Arabia, for all FCC projects in Egypt, and on a gas pipeline construction project in North Mexico. Based on these experiences FCC then plans to integrate SafeZone more widely and to start rolling out the approach from mid-2018 to cover all its international operations in over 35 countries. It gives FCC a reliable method for instant mass communication, for example, to broadcast regional alerts, weather warnings or travel updates" High level of emergency support “FCC believes that SafeZone is the ideal tool to help us provide an even higher level of emergency support and assistance to all employees and their families across all our international operations. The tool will give everyone peace of mind when they are travelling between different work locations or exploring the country in their free time, plus it gives FCC a reliable method for instant mass communication, for example, to broadcast regional alerts, weather warnings or travel updates. “CriticalArc’s ongoing commitment and flexibility in helping customise and deploy SafeZone to meet our specific requirements has been outstanding. FCC is an increasingly global and diversified business with complex security needs but CriticalArc is working closely to integrate SafeZone into our existing systems and to develop new approaches and features as required,” said José Morales, corporate security director at FCC Group. SafeZone gives users the ability to call for immediate emergency assistance by simply pressing a button on their mobile phone Automatic alert in emergency situations One of the key challenges for expatriates and their families is having to deal with the cultural differences, language barriers or growing political tensions that in some regions can lead to even minor incidents quickly escalating out of control. For example: if someone is involved in a road traffic accident or stopped for questioning by the police. SafeZone gives users the ability to call for immediate emergency assistance by simply pressing a button on their mobile phone. They do not need to even say anything, and their phone automatically sends an alert with their exact location details to a centralised control room. Providing security to FCC’s expatriates “SafeZone is already extensively used by universities and other further education establishments where the prime objective is to help protect students and staff both on and off campus. However, with FCC this is the first time SafeZone has been specified by a global security team for implementation across multiple geographies and such a diverse range of operational models. FCC’s expatriates and their families are much more widely dispersed, and in some regions the company’s security assets are not directly under its own control,” said Darren Chalmers-Stevens, CriticalArc EMEA managing director. The initial intention is for FCC to mandate SafeZone for all its own expatriates, but the company is also considering the potential benefits of recommending the tool for use by all personnel working for partner companies involved in FCC-led consortia, joint ventures and the company’s other international activities.

With the value of scrap metal only heading in one direction recently, dealers are having to turn to ever more advanced security solutions to combat theft and break ins. Security specialist Trigion is now providing high-tech solutions at a major Kent scrap yard in the UK, including the use of thermal cameras and a ‘virtual perimeter’ system. On a site such as a scrap metal yard, there can be a lot of material on view, and it is not always easy to determine exactly what is happening on a standard CCTV camera. Simplifying intrusion detection Thermal cameras make it clear where a heat source is and when it moves. They can also display an electronic trail showing where motion has taken place; making detection much easier. In addition, by setting a virtual perimeter on screen, specific areas can be monitored more closely, and an alarm triggered if someone enters it. This perimeter can be altered remotely to meet changing situations, such as the arrival of a greater quantity of metal.With scrap metal prices consistently rising over the past year or two, dealers are increasingly being targeted by unscrupulous elements" Neil Ricketts, Security & Technical Services Director at Trigion, said: “With scrap metal prices consistently rising over the past year or two, dealers are increasingly being targeted by unscrupulous elements intending to cash in. We work with our customers to design the best solution for their individual needs. We’re not tied to any supplier or manufacturer, so can ensure the customer gets what they really need." "In the case of the scrapyard, the thermal imaging gives a much clearer picture of the situation, and staff at our remote monitoring station can ensure the site is secure at all times.”

Hikvision cameras and a specially designed SKOV VMS allows handlers to monitor the pigs Hikvision worked with farm management solutions provider SKOV to bring the art of weighing pigs into the 21st Century, with the help of mini-dome cameras and a bespoke VMS system. The pig is one of the most populous large mammals in the world, with an estimated 986.6 million pigs at any one time. This also means, of course, that piggeries are big business, as pork is the most commonly meat consumed worldwide. Part of managing a piggery is to ensure that each pig is able to grow to its full potential. The average weight of a pig at market is 275 lbs, but keeping an eye on the weight of individual animals can be tricky. If a pig is smaller than it pen-mates, it is likely to be pushed away when it comes to feeding time. This means it will not grow to its full size. In this situation, pig farmers may move the smaller pigs into a separate pen, so they can get to the food and ‘catch up’ with their larger brothers and sisters. Methods and challenges But how do you weigh a pig? Traditional methods involved a tape measure and many hands and were, of course, very time consuming to complete. And that was without the math part at the end! Later methods saw farmers installing weighing apparatus, which was costly, and also time consuming with handlers needing to ‘persuade’ individual pigs onto the scales. Another issue with this system was that accuracy could be affected, as it was hard to tell if the scales had just one pig on them. “The pig handlers need to drag the pigs physically to the scales, which is not only very hard, time-consuming work, but also stresses the pig out”, said Kasper Ronn Christensen, Strategic Purchaser at SKOV. “Stressed pigs don’t eat, which also affects their growth rate.” Hikvision cameras and SKOV VMS solution Enter a whole new innovative solution, using Hikvision cameras and a specially designed SKOV VMS. After testing various cameras, SKOV approached Hikvision because of the competitive price and clear, reliable pictures even at only 2MP resolution. That, combined with the ability to build a firmware specifically for their needs, persuaded SKOV to work with Hikvision. Between four and eight 2-line mini-dome cameras (DS-2CD2142FWD-I (4mm)) are placed in the pigpens, to allow handlers to see what’s going on and to monitor the growth progress of the pigs. These specific cameras were chosen because of the low amount of spare space in a pigpen and the importance of an affordable solution. Weight calculation and monitoring “We were looking for a solution that could be used by piggeries all over the world”, says Kasper Ronn Christensen. “That meant we needed to make it simple, practical and affordable. The fact that, even at a relatively low resolution of 2MP, clear actionable pictures were consistently available made these cameras a smart choice.” Connection to the SKOV VMS means that the pigs’ weights can be calculated and so monitored. The VMS also gives alarms if a pig doesn’t follow the required growth rate, so steps can be taken. The success of the project in Denmark means it can be replicated all over the world to help piggeries to manage their pigs and make sure they maximise their potential. SKOV is offering the solution to all regions with piggeries, including in Thailand, where they have a subsidiary. Digitalised smart farming systems “The cameras are integrated and working as expected, so we can look to the future”, says Kasper Ronn Christensen. “We are really impressed with the way Hikvision adapted their firmware to our needs. I also love the innovative approach - who would have thought that a technology that was designed to help spot intruders could be used to ensure pigs grew to the correct weight!” Peter Guan, Channel and Marketing Director at Hikvision Europe, said: “We are heading to a future where traditional farming is digitalised into smart farming, where surveillance cameras are not only used for crime prevention at the farms, but also as useful tools for farmers. Hikvision’s ecosystem partner program allows easy software and hardware integration so that end users can benefit from an innovative and more powerful complete solution.”

JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. is an automotive tyre, tubes and flaps manufacturing company based in Delhi, India. The company is the only tyre manufacturer offering the entire range of four-wheeler radials for trucks, buses, and cars. JK Tyre has a worldwide customer base in over 80+ countries. With production facilities in nine plants, total production capacity is almost 20 million tyres per annum. Employee shift and visitor management JK Tyres have its biggest manufacturing setup in Mysore. The premise consists of a manufacturing unit as well as the administrative department. Since the plant runs 24×7 and there are numerous shifts of workers, they found it difficult to manage multiple shifts manually. Managing visitors was also a problem for the company. So, they required a software that would help them keep a record of visitors on time-to-time basis. Creating a visitor’s identity in the form of visitor pass and generating reports of visitors on a monthly basis was a tiresome process. JK Tyres was looking for a vendor who could offer them a complete solution related to time-attendance and visitor management. Matrix time-attendance solution Matrix offered a time-attendance solution, which centrally handled multiple shifts of workers and employees. Numerous shifts were created to manage time-attendance of over 500+ workers. Moreover, they provided employee self service, which helped the employees view day-to-day attendance, apply for leave/tour, etc. JK Tyres further required a record of visitors so Matrix delivered visitor management software, which helped them create a visitor pass, fetch visitor records, and generate reports of the same. Results: Reduction in cumbersome HR tasks Automatic maintenance of visitor records on day-to-day basis 40% increase in productivity of employees and workers