Mall security

Hikvision, global provider of innovative video surveillance solutions, has added an ultra HD 32 MP panoramic camera to its award-winning PanoVu camera range. Seamless panoramic image The new DS-2CD6984G0-IH(S)(AC) 32 MP PanoVu Series Panoramic Dome Camera uses four 1/2" Progressive Scan CMOS sensors to deliver a true 180-degree horizontal panorama, as well as a vertical field of view of 95 degrees. The four video images are stitched together by the camera itself, which intelligently outputs a single, seamless panoramic image. Frank Zhang, General Manager of the International Product Marketing Department at Hikvision says, “We are very excited to add this state-of-the-art high definition camera to the award-winning PanoVu family. Organisations with large outdoor areas are continually looking for innovative ways to monitor and protect their premises. Our 32 MP camera gives them some of the most remarkable panoramic and HD monitoring features they’ll find on the market.” HD panoramic video in low-light environmentsThe camera offers impressive HD, with a maximum resolution of 8160 × 3616 pixels The camera offers impressive HD, with a maximum resolution of 8160 × 3616 pixels. Its 32 MP image resolution at 30 fps ensures smooth video image preview and playback. Engineered with low illumination capability and four embedded infra-red LEDs, the DS-2CD6984G0-IH(S)(AC) can continue to deliver HD panoramic video in low-light environments and even under 0 lux conditions, up to a distance of 20 metres. Multiple display modes The camera also has a range of display modes to suit user needs. In addition to the standard 32 MP panorama view, users can choose to output the panoramic image in 8 MP resolution to fit into a corresponding network video recorder. The camera can also deliver four, 8 MP standalone images from each lens, or four images in divided panorama view. Thanks to its broad field of view, the DS-2CD6984G0-IH(S)(AC) is ideal for large, open areas such as stadiums, plazas, entertainment venues and industrial facilities. Just one camera can cover an area that previously required multiple cameras, reducing IP channels. This also makes installation and configuration much easier, faster and potentially more cost-effective.

As physical stores look to push the boundaries of retail design, demand for non-intrusive security systems at the store entrance/exit is growing. Checkpoint Systems, a supplier of source to shopper solutions for the global retail industry, has responded with the launch of an underfloor RFID antenna, UF-1. Delivering the same market-leading quality as Checkpoint’s more traditional EAS antennas, but using unique, patented RFID reader technology, the UF-1 system offers a large read range, with the added benefit of harnessing the power of RFID data to improve inventory management within a completely invisible solution. Checkpoint Wirama RadarTM technology UF-1 is suited to a wide array of projects; from those wanting aesthetically pleasing, open entrances to malls that restrict the use of traditional EAS antennas across their openings, and retailers that need wide, obstruction free store doorways. Using patented Checkpoint Wirama RadarTM technology, the underfloor RFID-enabled solution can identify the direction of a tag passing over the antenna, whether into the store, out of the store, or along the door. It is also able to determine if an item is simply located nearby the exit or potentially being stolen – minimising false alarms. Simon Edgar, Senior Director - Product Management at Checkpoint Systems, commented: “We’re hugely excited to be launching this new underfloor RFID solution that will enable retailers to become even more creative with their store designs and help them improve their customers’ in-store experience. UF-1 is advanced floor-based solution and we expect it to be extremely popular among RFID early adopters.”

SecurAmerica, a leading U.S. man-guarding security company has announced the purchase of ERMC, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. With headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, SecurAmerica, headed by the legendary entrepreneur Frank Argenbright, will continue its relentless focus on growth. With this expansion of infrastructure, the combined business will operate in over 650 locations, employ more than 8,000 security officers, and have annual revenues of over $300 million. SecurAmerica will now be the fifth largest U.S. security company. Premier man-guarding service provider “ERMC has had an outstanding reputation for service and culture that is both customer-centric and employee-obsessive. It is absolutely the right fit for us. I am also very pleased that its leadership team will remain with the organization,” said Frank Argenbright, the Executive Chairman of SecurAmerica. Argenbright further stated, “This acquisition is important to the long-term growth plans of SecurAmerica, because the Fortune 500 companies typically seek bids and contract from the top 5 man-guarding companies. We are extremely well positioned now and highly visible as the premier service provider.” Eddie Russell, the President of ERMC said, “ERMC wasn’t for sale when we met SecurAmerica a few months back; however, we quickly realised that the compatibility, synergies, and strength as a combined team were too great not to merge for both our clients and employees’ sake. We are looking forward to learning and borrowing new methods and techniques from our modernistic and advanced partner, improving our ability to better serve our clients. We are excited about becoming a part of the team that makes Frank’s vision a reality.” Expansions in retail and aviation vertical markets This is a major move for SecurAmerica, which has targeted $1 billion in revenues during the next five years, and $5 billion over the next ten years.  ERMC expands the vertical market opportunity with strong operations in both retail and aviation markets.  Argenbright’s commitment to delivering operational excellence has powered SecurAmerica’s rapid growth and built a reputation for the company as the premium provider of security services throughout the United States. The National Archives relies on SecurAmerica to protect the nation’s most important artifacts, including the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. “We are quite excited to have ERMC as a part of our company,” said Argenbright, “and we believe we have added capabilities that will continue to accelerate our growth.”

Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, will showcase its Wisenet P series multi-sensor/multidirectional cameras at ASIS 2017 (booth 3523). Available in 8 and 20 megapixel, these high performance multi-sensor/multi-directional cameras feature four imaging sensors that can be independently positioned to provide a wide surveillance area on spaces of specific interest making them ideal for an array of mainstream applications in parking lots, shopping malls, office lobbies, mass transport concourses and airports. "Hanwha Wisenet P series Multi-sensor/Multi-directional cameras set the benchmark for performance and value," said Ramy Ayad, Senior Product Manager, Hanwha Techwin America. "With multiple sensors capable of operating independently of one another, multisensory megapixel cameras capture four times the amount of video, increasing the value of that video – and the value of the camera itself – for end users.” WiseStream II compression technology Wisenet P series Multi-sensor/Multi-directional camera offerings include the PNM-9080VQ with four individual 2 megapixel (8 megapixel total resolution) with 150dB WDR and 60fps (per sensor). The series also includes the PNM-9081VQ with four individual 5 megapixel sensors (20 megapixel total resolution) with 120dB WDR and 30 fps (per sensor). Both Wisenet P models incorporate Hanwha’s WiseStream II compression technology that dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality, resulting in bandwidth reduction of up to 99% and significant cost savings. The cameras also feature backlight compensation, True Day/Night operation and digital image stabilisation with a gyro sensor. High PoE compatibility Additional key features of Wisenet P series Multi-sensor/Multi-directional cameras include: 4 SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots (one for each channel), offering total storage of up to 1TB of onboard storage; PoE+ (8 megapixel) or High PoE (20 megapixel) compatibility; Triple codec H.265/H.264/MJPEG; license free built-in analytics; hallway view; and motorised varifocal lenses (2.8-12mm per sensor at 8 megapixel and 3.6-9.4mm per sensor at 20 megapixel) to deliver exceptionally wide area surveillance. All units are also IP66/K10 rated for use in harsh environments.

Hanwha Techwin America, a provider of global security solutions, is building on its commitment to deliver the industry’s highest-performance video solutions with the introduction of its new Wisenet P series multi-sensor/multi-directional cameras. Available in 8 and 20 megapixel, these cameras offer unmatched performance. They are ideal for applications such as parking lots, shopping mall entrances, lobbies, station concourses and airports. "Our multi-sensor cameras have the ability to provide a wide area coverage in extreme detail with just one camera," said Ramy Ayad, Senior Product Manager, Hanwha Techwin America. "We exceeded the benchmark for multi-sensor camera technology by incorporating features such as 60fps, 150dB wide dynamic range, low light performance (0.0015 Lux B/W, 0.015 Lux color) and built-in video analytics.” Built-in video analytics Hanwha’s new Wisenet P series includes the PNM-9080VQ with four individual 2 megapixel sensors for a total of 8 megapixel resolution capable of 150dB WDR and 60fps (per sensor). The series also includes the PNM-9081VQ with four individual 5 megapixel sensors that deliver 20 megapixel resolution capable of 120dB WDR and 30 fps (per sensor). Both Wisenet P models include built-in license free advanced video analytics, backlight compensation, True Day/Night and digital image stabilization with a gyro sensor. The combination of H.265 compression and WiseStream II result in data reduction of up to 99% The combination of H.265 compression and WiseStream II, a complementary compression technology that dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement in the image, result in data reduction of up to 99%. This translates into significant savings on bandwidth, storage and cost. Additional features of the Wisenet P cameras: 4 SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots (one for each channel), offering total storage of up to 1TB PoE+ (8 megapixel) or HPoE (20 megapixel) and 12VDC Triple codec H.265/H.264/MJPEG Hallway View Motorised varifocal lens (2.8~12mm per sensor @ 8 megapixel; 3.6~9.4mm per sensor @20 megapixel) for widest range available in the industry in a multi-sensor camera IP66/K10 rated housing

Allied Universal, a facility services company, and the largest security force in North America, marks its one-year anniversary after forming a year ago via the merger of AlliedBarton Security Services and Universal Services of America. "Thank you to all of our employees and clients for their continued support and commitment that contributed to a phenomenal first year as our new company!" said Steve Jones, Allied Universal CEO. "I look forward to our continued success in the security and services industries." Organisational achievements Here are some additional organisational achievements since the merger: Became the unequivocal leader in guarding services throughout North America. Our security professionals and our company play a major role in keeping the U.S. and Canada safe and secure. Provided service to over half of the Fortune 500 companies and nearly every major retail mall in the U.S. From healthcare facilities, commercial office buildings, manufacturing and industrial plants, residential communities, transportation facilities and government services, Allied Universal has a significant security presence. Managed the integration of a workforce of over 150,000 security professionals to perform our jobs on a daily basis and serve our growing customer base. Implemented a world-class training program, the AU Institute, which offers over 1,000 training assets and professional development programs to enhance our security professionals' delivery of service and protection. Introduced several technological innovations to expand our physical and operational security solutions and service offerings to enhance the protection of client properties and assets.

Part 1 in our Intercoms in Security Series Lambert-St. Louis International Airport uses Code Blue intercoms Organisations are demanding a new level of interoperability among mission-critical security systems. Intelligible audio, the ability to hear, be heard and be understood, is critical to communication, which is essential to the core security processes within an organisation, as well as to emergency situations. Intelligible audio provides a platform to optimise various processes, including the use of security officers. “Our main thrust is to ensure our clients see intelligible and interoperable audio, not as an option, but as instrumental to their budget optimisation, stakeholder communication and risk mitigation efforts,” says Jim Hoffpauir, President of Zenitel North America, a manufacturer of intercoms and other communications solutions. Iintercoms in building safety and security  The role of intercoms in building safety and security is a given across many markets, and that use is growing. Intercoms are used in campus call boxes, elevators, muster locations, and for emergency notification. The trend is toward video, audio and access control, all tied together. There is also an emphasis on providing intelligible audio in any environment, even demanding ones. The education market has historically been a large sector for intercoms. Emergency phones and intercoms traditionally have been found throughout education settings, including colleges and universities, where they remain quite popular. Expanding markets for two-way communication In recent years, however, their popularity has also grown within the healthcare and mass transit sectors, where their versatility allows authorities to react to emergency situations while also providing a wide range of applications for non-emergency situations, such as car trouble or requests for directions. Intercoms can fulfill a variety of emergency and non-emergency needs in places like downtown Santa Ana, California (Photo courtesy Code Blue) “Markets of all sizes and shapes can benefit from a two-way communication solution that can help individuals place calls for assistance with first responders, police departments or customer service representatives,” says David Fleming, Chief Design Officer for Code Blue Corp. Intercoms for public and private sectors Aiphone is another intercom manufacturer for which education is a big market. Bruce Czerwinski, U.S. General Sales Manager, Aiphone Corp., says about 80 percent of both public and private K-12 and higher education campuses are using at least one intercom in some form. That percentage grows to nearly 100 percent for hospitals, which are using intercoms as nurse-call stations and at parking facilities, exterior door entries, nurseries and pharmacies, he says. "About 40 percent of commercial units – from strip malls to large, multi-tenant campus settings – are using intercoms" Up to 70 percent of larger multi-family facilities are also using intercoms. And that percentage is even higher in older, heavily populated Eastern cities. Many locales have laws mandating the use of audio and video intercoms on buildings beyond a threshold number of units. About 40 percent of commercial units – from strip malls to large, multi-tenant campus settings – are using intercoms, says Czerwinski. In the past year, Aiphone’s emergency stations have become very popular, particularly in campus settings; both commercial and higher education. Also, a growing number of unmanned parking garages are using the stations to allow patrons to immediately reach first responders or security personnel. Each of these markets still has growth potential, but by its sheer size, the commercial market offers the greatest opportunities, according to Aiphone. Video-enabled IP intercoms Intercom usage differs widely in various global markets, according to Craig Szmania, CEO of 2N USA, a manufacturer of IP intercoms. In the North American market, intercom usage is relatively low compared to the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, where intercoms are a more mature market. Security, convenience, systems integration and IP-versus-analogue adoption are driving usage and growth to more than 20 percent year-over-year. More and more video-enabled IP intercoms are seen as an integral part of a system wide security and video solution, according to Szmania. “Our intercom portfolio targets all the major verticals, but we have had particular success in the education sector – K-12 and universities,” says Szmania. “These end users are looking for specific features in securing their campuses, providing convenience to their administrators, employing programmability for differing use scenarios throughout the campus, and integration to their telephony or other systems.” More and more video-enabled IP intercoms are seen as an integral part of a system wide security and video solution Szmania says the latter point is becoming a particular need in light of a requirement for campus-wide communication and coordination in emergency situations. “Our intercoms integrate seamlessly with third party solutions such as Cisco’s telephone systems that are the communication backbones of many schools and campuses,” he adds. IP-based solutions in residential verticals Considering near-term growth potential, single family and multi-tenant residential verticals have fantastic opportunities for increased usage of door stations/intercoms in the United States, according to Szmania. The company has entered this space over the last several years and has grown to be a market leader in IP-based integrated solutions, especially in the home automation space. The adoption of IP networked solutions for condominiums and apartments is just taking off, driven in part by consumer demand for mobile-anywhere video, audio and door control. The service is also a driver for integrator/dealer adoption of the technology to provide recurring monthly revenue (RMR). 2N has also achieved triple-digit growth in commercial building installations over the past two years. Building owners, IT departments and security managers want and need a networked solution for control and security. 2N’s open platforms are a good fit, says Szmania. Read part 2 of our Security Intercoms series here

As the security industry continues to grow, recruiting must have more sophisticatedscreening and hiring processes, and a commitment to hiring quality personnel The physical security industry today is driving focus on finding the right talent. Deborah O’Mara, SourceSecurity.com's dealer/integrator correspondent, in an exclusive Q&A with Brent O’Bryan, Vice President of Training and Development for AlliedBarton Security Services, discuss the challenges that security companies face while recruiting top talent and practices the physical security industry should adopt to attract qualified security officers. Offering security training and education to hire top talent SourceSecurity.com: How important is it for the security industry to attract top talent today? What are some of the ways in which they should do this? O’Bryan: People want to join growth-oriented job sectors that offer continual training and advancement. The physical security industry and the systems integrator community can attract talent by demonstrating the path to leadership and the training and educational opportunities they offer. Physical security officer companies offer on-the-job training that is site-specific and customised for each client. The curriculum consists of numerous training modules covering various topics important to clients, the employee and the security industry in general. Ambitious employees can take advantage of a wide variety of courses and training, both online and in the classroom setting, from industry-specific curriculum to personal and professional development. The physical security sector demands that the security officers’ and managers’ qualifications merit the position. Today’s security officer requires a balance of formal education and industry-specific training to be competitive and effective in their position. Learning continues throughout the career of a security professional. Course work ranges from demanding advanced Master Security Officer courses, e-learning, scenario-based learning and executive leadership modules, classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Security officers receive significant and ongoing training. Training can include fire safety, terrorism awareness, emergency planning, and evacuation procedures. In addition, officers participate in industry-specific training geared to the market they serve whether it is a petrochemical installation, government facility, shopping mall, hospital, commercial building, residential complex, industrial facility or college. Security companies offer on-the-job training for their officers that is site-specificand customised for each clients’ needs Combining security technology and management experience SourceSecurity.com: What are some of the new and emerging disciplines that are needed, such as IT expertise, integrated systems expertise? O’Bryan: The physical security sector has benefited from advances in technology. Integrated technology solutions enable more complete and easily searchable databases for visitor logs, real-time incident reports and recordable security officer tours. Security officers monitor state-of-the-art security software and hardware, quickly identifying unusual activity enabling immediate responses. Digital devices and integrated video surveillance allow security officers on patrol to effectively monitor the entire facility. Additionally, security isn’t the only area of expertise needed in the security industry. The behind-the-scenes support and infrastructure that allow for seamless security programs require professionals in a variety of fields from IT to accounting, legal, HR and more. That, coupled with the business and management experience needed by security managers, positions this industry as a robust opportunity for job seekers looking for meaningful careers. Career advancement in the security industry SourceSecurity.com: What are some of the unique challenges to both the systems integration and end-user communities in attracting talent as the economy improves? O’Bryan: The physical security sector needs the current generation of high school and college graduates and returning military veterans to take a fresh look at this market as it presents meaningful career opportunities. As the security sector continues to evolve, we need to actively promote our growth and advancements so that professionals see value in a security career. SourceSecurity.com: What's important in particular with physical security providers to ensure they keep top talent, such as training, certification, other perks? O’Bryan: While many people don’t look at the physical security sector as a “glamour” field, the reality is that it is an industry that offers significant opportunity for education, growth and promotion. As the industry continues to grow, there is greater need for sophisticated recruiting, screening and hiring processes, as well as a strict commitment to hiring quality personnel who are a right fit for the position. The physical security sector actively promotes from within by encouraging continual training and education. Security officers must be trained and proficient in numerous security technologiesand systems integration to effectively monitor their facilities Employee engagement, recognition initiatives and formal employee feedback programs are all also critically important to retaining top talent. A strong learning culture is also essential. It is important that we, as an industry, invest in our people. At AlliedBarton, for example, in addition to the extensive training courses available to all employees, we also encourage continued learning through higher education and have partnered with several colleges and universities to offer tuition reduction programs to employees. Nurturing a leadership culture to prevent workplace violence SourceSecurity.com: Since workplace violence and active shooters are increasingly in the news, how can individual security companies be prepared in this area and perhaps also help their end-user customers in these areas? O’Bryan: Numerous studies over the years have proven the link between leadership and physical safety – especially at job sites where there is a higher risk of accidents, such as at industrial facilities. What has been less examined is the relationship between solid leadership and workplace violence prevention. Bill Whitmore, Chairman and CEO of AlliedBarton wrote “Potential Workplace Violence Prevention and Your Organisational Success,” which addresses this in great detail. We believe that strong and steady leadership is at the heart of workplace violence prevention. Any company that fails to embrace a leadership culture, with a definitive mandate on what defines leadership for each and every employee, will be more prone to an incident of workplace violence. In terms of helping our clients in their workplace violence prevention planning, every organisation should have a workplace violence prevention plan in place to help avoid a tragic event. Workplace violence happens every day and businesses that are prepared are better positioned to help prevent, respond and recover. We work with leaders at all levels to develop a plan that works best for their organisation since there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Globally-renowned Pay on Foot parking systems manufacturer, DESIGNA, has worked with the White Rose shopping centre in Rhyl, North Wales, to update its car parking system to the company’s advanced ABACUS software and equipment. Contactless card payment The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology After many successful installations abroad, the shopping centre is the first DESIGNA site in the UK to have installed its new tap in/tap out contactless credit card technology. The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology. There are also three full pay stations, a DBS server, manual pay station and intercom. All of this helps improve the efficiency and security of the car park, which is popular with shoppers due to its seafront location. As the first part of the shopping experience, the convenience and availability of a car park is crucial to the overall service and satisfaction of a customer. DESIGNA recognised this and developed ABACUS, an advanced car park access system that intelligently integrates various elements to create the ultimate system that is highly reliable and requires less maintenance. It can also cope with large volumes of traffic while providing the highest level of monitoring to ensure a secure parking environment. ABACUS car park access system The parking system is barrier controlled and makes use of DESIGNA barcode ticket technology. In addition to the standard ticket technology, the car park offers the facility to tap in/tap out using a contactless credit card. This operates with a unique identifier from the credit/debit card as a substitute for a ticket for the duration of the stay at the car park. When the customer presents a contactless card on entry, it recognises them and by tapping again at the exit it automatically calculates the tariff and allows payment to take place at the exit. The system has three pay on foot machines which accept coins, notes and credit cards. With more than 30 stores, White Rose shopping centre, Rhyl’s number one shopping destination, has a wide range of quality stores. Located in the centre of the town, White Rose is a short walk from Rhyl’s seafront, railway station and sea aquarium, and has direct access car parking for 300 vehicles. The centre previously had a chip coin solution installed on site. Advanced ticket machines The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method" Sue Nash, Centre Manager at the White Rose commented, “The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method. The advanced ticket machines make it possible to pay using several means, therefore reducing the problem of queuing at the pay machines and having to pay with change. Another payment option we now have is the facility to pay through mobile devices and via contactless cards.” She continued, “The majority of people move around with credit cards rather than cash and having a versatile payment option in the car park makes for a painless process. The maintenance of the system at our local level was extremely important to avoid costly and timely engineer callouts. Simple things like ticket and coin jams, system resets are now extremely easy to resolve as is the exchange of entry tickets when required. I would certainly recommend the DESIGNA system to others and we are extremely pleased with the results.” Car parking ease and convenience Specifier Andrew Bailey, of Parking Ideas, commented, “Parking Ideas is a complete car parking and transportation consultancy that helps institutions, property owners, landlords and managing agents develop and optimise their assets. I have worked with the White Rose shopping centre for a number of years and following a competitive tender found that DESIGNA’s systems best suited the client’s requirements.” He continued, “The ABACUS system is good value, commercially viable and ticked all the right boxes for the White Rose. It is very important to have the facility to pay by card, so the payment terminals having this feature are vital to the centre and have made all the difference to the running of the car park. Parking Ideas has been in the parking industry for more than 15 years, so we have worked with DESIGNA before and are very happy with the end result.”  DESIGNA ticket terminals The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy. The advanced terminals operate on the lowest energy consumption of their class with the ability to hold more tickets than before, with the bin adapting itself to the fill quantity. Customers are greeted with excellent user-friendliness due to the simplicity of the equipment and illuminated display with clear instructions. The four-way barcode readers also ensure visitors can insert their ticket any way round into any of the pay stations around the site. DESIGNA Pay on Foot machines For payment, three of DESIGNA’s new Pay on Foot machines are in place in the car park. This allows customers to pay for their visit before returning to their car and exit the car park more quickly. The pay station is deliberately designed to allow disabled customers to pay freely without assistance. Each of the pay stations is installed with an interactive monitor that makes it easy to pay and offers several different languages. Shopping centre management has full control of the ABACUS system through the DBS server, with a manual pay station (MPS) to allow them to create or override payments. The control room also links with the ticket and payment terminals via a DESIGNA VoIP Intercom to assist customers if required. Global implementation DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations DESIGNA’s parking systems are used in a number of impressive shopping centres around the world. These include the Dundrum shopping centre in Dublin, the Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia and the Mall of Emirates in Dubai. In the UK the Belfry shopping centre in Redhill, the Woolshops shopping centre in Halifax and the Wellgate centre in Dundee have also benefited from the ABACUS system. Recognised worldwide for its high quality and intelligent systems, DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations, including shopping centres, airports and hospitals. ABACUS is one of the company’s innovations and demonstrates the endless possibilities available to car park operators. The future-proof technology allows for expansions of premises or new property acquisitions by allowing additional systems to be added to the network. In its many global applications, ABACUS has proved to be an effortless system for both operators and users and is a great investment for companies looking to the future.

Rasilient Systems, Inc., the pioneer in video surveillance systems purposely architected for IP video recording, has been chosen to provide video surveillance storage solutions for Global Village Dubai, billed as the “world’s largest” tourism, leisure, shopping and entertainment project.  Now entering its 21st season, Global Village Dubai is the Middle East’s first family multicultural festival park. The attraction entertains more than 5.3 million guests each season and has more than $2.2 billion AED in business transactions ($599 million American dollars). From November through April each year, Global Village Dubai visitors enjoy a shopping experience in more than 30 pavilions, 120-plus kiosks and two dozen restaurants and cafes throughout the season’s 159 days of operation.  Video surveillance storage solutions “With more than five million visitors each year, Global Village Dubai required a solution that delivered high quality video recording and reliability,” said Sean Chang, CEO of Rasilient Systems. “At Rasilient, we are honored to have been chosen to provide a very important element of the overall security solution at Global Village Dubai. We designed our purpose-built video surveillance storage solutions for projects just like this.” “Our successful partnership with Rasilient means that we understand individual market demands, ensuring that we exceed expectations,” said Dr Mohammad Alketbi CEO of Forceis. When it comes to security solutions, we believe that quality counts. A 24/7 system availability can only be achieved through a robust and dynamic solution" “When it comes to security solutions, we believe that quality counts. A 24/7 system availability can only be achieved through a robust and dynamic solution.” Physical security integration services Rasilient partnered with Forceis Integrated Security Systems, a system integrator, to provide state-of-art security operation for Global Village Dubai. Forceis is an innovative forward-thinking organisation that provides expertise around physical security integration services in the United Arab Emirates. The video surveillance cameras at Global Village Dubai are managed by Milestone’s XProtect Corporate Video Management Software (VMS). Rasilient is a Milestone Systems Certified Solution Partner and together the companies have partnered in a number of successful video surveillance deployments, particularly in the growing Middle East region. “Global Village is pleased with the products and services Forceis Integrated Security Systems Offers. We have been extremely satisfied with the support provided by the technical staff and the professionalism throughout the company,” said Mansoor Salem, Senior Security Manager of Global Village. “The stability and resiliency of the Rasilient solution is impressive. System uptime is crucial to our business and we’ve had zero outages since we installed Rasilient. We are confident in our ability to rapidly scale our IT infrastructure no matter what size of customer now walks through the door.” ApplianceStor VMS storage servers The video surveillance storage solution used at Global Village Dubai includes six Rasilient ApplianceStor 74 Rack high performance VMS storage servers The video surveillance storage solution used at Global Village Dubai includes six Rasilient ApplianceStor 74 Rack high performance VMS storage servers that provide 100TB of storage. Rasilient’s ApplianceStor 74 Rack mount integrates VMS and storage into a simple-to-use, high performance video surveillance server solution. This eliminates the cost of a separate VMS server, significantly reducing cabling as well as the challenges of integrating VMS, OS, commodity server and storage. Proactive monitoring technology With Rasilient’s video surveillance storage solutions, every single camera frame is processed and recorded – what’s referred to as No Frame Drop – which is essential with the variety of security scenarios at Global Village Dubai that might call for video retrieval, said Chang. The ApplianceStor 74 is engineered to monitor its own “health” and operations to ensure that the system doesn’t fail when it’s most needed. This Proactive technology monitors the health of every disc drive in the system to enable cloning right before an actual drive failure. Global Village Dubai joins the list of the many projects Rasilient has completed in the UAE and surrounding areas over the last few years including the Zero 6 Mall that opened in April in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

Rasilient Systems, Inc., the pioneer in video surveillance systems purposely architected for IP video recording, has been chosen to provide video surveillance server and storage solutions for Zero 6 Mall, the impressive new-generation shopping destination that opened in April this year in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Zero 6 is a 16,000 square-metre complex that offers a diverse selection of dining, retail and entertainment attractions. Strategically located in Al Juraina, in close proximity to prominent city landmarks like University City and Sharjah International Airport, Zero 6 celebrates Sharjah’s evolving lifestyle community experience. Security integration software “Security is always the top concern in designing and developing a popular tourist and resident destination like Zero 6 Mall. Rasilient is honored to have been chosen to help secure this impressive and unique facility,” said Sean Chang, CEO of Rasilient Systems. Rasilient worked with UAE-based system integrator Exceed Communications, LLC, on the Zero 6 Mall project. Exceed Communications is a leading provider of IT infrastructure and security system needs including network design, installation and management and video surveillance and IPTV systems. Video surveillance at Zero 6 is managed by SeeTec Video Management Software (VMS). An OnSSI Company, SeeTec is one of the leading solution providers for video surveillance in Europe. Unmatched data integrity “Video surveillance storage is critical for security point of view and we are fortunate to have the services of Rasilient Systems, which is a trusted name for unmatched data integrity and storage reliability,” said Issa Ataya, Managing Director, Alef Group. We are confident that Rasilient Systems will provide the most innovative and state-of-the-art technology for Zero 6 Mall"  “Zero 6 Mall is a one-stop destination in Sharjah that appeals more to a new generation as it’s a premier lifestyle-oriented place. We are confident that Rasilient Systems will provide the most innovative and state-of-the-art technology for Zero 6 Mall,” Ataya said. Video management software Rasilient provided video surveillance storage for Zero 6 that offers unmatched data integrity, storage reliability and scalability to address future growth. Rasilient’s purpose-built technologies lower CAPEX and OPEX by extending product life expectancy and enabling scheduled maintenance instead of reactive maintenance as systems age. The video surveillance system in place at the mall provides petabytes of storage using Rasilient’s fully redundant ApplianceStor AS85R Server and PS5000 Rackmount IP Storage. Rasilient’s ApplianceStor AS85R is a modular server system which packs four high performance server modules in a single 2U rack mount platform providing unmatched performance and density. Each module can be used to integrate VMS, failover, archive, administration and access control servers in a single high density 2U system. The AS85R significantly reduces cost over a separate VMS server, reduces cabling and the ordeal of integrating VMS, OS, commodity server and storage. Because the AS85R is ideally suited for use in conjunction with Rasilient’s PS5000 Rackmount IP storage, the Zero 6 project also utilises the PS5000. Rasilient’s PS5000 Rackmount IP storage provides a simple-to-use, high performance, and large capacity video surveillance solution Large surveillance installations Rasilient’s PS5000 Rackmount IP storage provides a simple-to-use, high performance, and large capacity video surveillance solution. The purpose-built storage array is optimised for high performance megapixel and large video surveillance installations – both key characteristics of the video solution used at the Zero 6 Mall. Rasilient's patented advanced video caching technology – VAN, FlowThrough, StreamAlign – enables no recording gaps and data locking and increases read/write performance. This allows the capability of using both high resolution megapixel cameras and heavy camera loads. With Rasilient’s video surveillance storage solutions, every single camera frame is processed and recorded – which is essential for the variety of mall security scenarios that might call for video retrieval. The Rasilient system is also engineered to monitor its own “health” and operations to ensure that the system doesn’t fail when it’s most needed. This Proactive technology monitors the health of every disc drive in the system to enable cloning right before an actual drive failure. Reliable video surveillance solutions Zero 6 Mall is just one of many projects Rasilient has completed in the UAE and surrounding areas over the last few years, said Chang. “With the successful implementation of quality and reliable video surveillance solutions for projects like Zero 6, Rasilient continues its growth in the very important Middle East market,” he added.

The Mall of Switzerland, located in Ebikon in Lucerne Canton, has a total floor space of 65,000 square meters. It is the second largest shopping centre of Switzerland. Visitors to this ultramodern building complex can take advantage of about 90 stores, 18 restaurants, a multiplex cinema with 12 auditoriums, a large indoor playground and multiple exercise facilities. The Mall of Switzerland is expected to receive up to five million visitors a year. This poses considerable challenges for building security, for which it is relying on Bosch’s experience and expertise. “These days, trends and customer needs change faster than ever before. Buildings have to be able to adapt easily – although this of course also poses new challenges, for instance with regard to security,” explains Jan Wengeler, who manages the mall. “But with Bosch as our partner, we know that we can handle whatever comes up.” Enhanced guest safety For the Mall of Switzerland, Bosch’s building experts implemented a tailored security solution for controlling access to restricted areas. At its core is the MATRIX access control system, which features a combination of electronic cylinders and door fittings plus readers, terminals, controllers and software. A management system with a customised user interface visualises the states of more than 100 doors to let staff very quickly and easily monitor and control them. This significantly enhances the safety and security of guests and personnel, also in complex situations with large crowds. The operators are now facing the future with confidence, since additional parts of the Mall of Switzerland can be quickly and flexibly integrated in the overall system as required.

Checkpoint pioneered RF technology’s use in the retail industry and is now ushering in a new era through the introduction of a brand new electronics platform that is resetting the boundaries of what is achievable, both in terms of antenna design and functionality. Simon Edgar, Senior Director EAS Systems & Software at Checkpoint Systems, gives some information about the thought process behind the new NEO system. 1. Checkpoint is noted as inventing the first Radio Frequency-based Electronic Article Surveillance system, what would you say has been the main driver for you to re-think the whole Radio Frequency design? “Checkpoint has a long reputation of delivering quality RF hardware and labels. We have maintained our position as the market leader as we’re always looking for ways to improve the solutions we offer. That said, there are only so many antenna designs and innovations that you can come up with, while working from the same blue print. With the rapid rate of change retailers are having to adapt to, it made sense that our solutions were able to cope with these changes, particularly the increasing demand for connectivity between multiple new technologies and sensors. That’s when we started to think outside of the box, about redefining the antenna design – so that this valuable piece of hardware is fit for the rigours of today’s retail environment.” 2. How did you set about creating NEO? “Discussions about a new electronics platform started a couple of years ago. As technology changes, the options to adapt our electronics platform also open up, so we started to re-think the traditional RF loop concept. Bricks and mortar stores are striving to be more technologically advanced and connected in everything they do, in order to bring new customers through the doors and maximise their sales.As technology changes, the options to adapt our electronics platform also open up, so we started to re-think the traditional RF loop concept" So it made sense to apply the same philosophy to our antenna portfolio. We’re extremely proud of what we have achieved in such a short period of time. It demonstrates that we’re at the forefront of retail technology and not many vendors can have a market ready product available within just eight months.” 3. How many people have been involved in its development? “The project was split in two, with an electronics development team and an antenna design team. All together the project has involved Checkpoint employees from around the globe, including 20 engineers, 10 technical designers and the entire senior management team of Checkpoint. This doesn’t include marketing, sales and our customers – who have been involved throughout the process. It has been a true team effort and we have combined the wealth of retail experience and technical know-how within our business to create something really special.” 4. Acousto-Magnetic (AM) technology has presented some benefits to retailers over Radio Frequency, including wider aisles. Why have you continued to invest in RF? “We believe that RF technology has more benefits than Acousto-Magnetic, including cost, detection and energy usage. It has always been our preferred option for antenna, labels and source tagging – where we protect manufactured goods straight out of the factory. The latter often involves a wide selection of differing tag sizes and formats, and when we started to investigate new ways to lay out the electronics, previous performance boundaries related to tag size started to melt away. We soon realised that the NEO platform would enable us to incorporate new connected technology, while early test results showed the detection rates in the new electronics configuration was outstanding, enabling retailers to achieve the same distance between antennas that AM technology provides.” 5. You are using NEO to develop sensors for different vertical markets, why is it important that different stores have different types of antenna? “When shopping on the high street or in malls, you usually spend a few hours browsing. Stores spend a lot of time to make their displays appealing and ensuring entrances are as open as possible to entice people in. As such there has been increasing demand for antenna designs that are minimalistic and deliver a clear eye line to the displays, rather than customers’ not being able to see past the point of entry/exit security systems. In contrast, grocery or DIY stores tend to have more frequent footfall, often with trolleys. Designs for these environments need to be sturdy enough to take a few knocks and last a good few years under these harsher conditions. Thanks to the NEO electronics platform, the scope for varied designs has opened up dramatically, so over the next 12 months expect to see some exciting design concepts that can be utilised across the retail industry.” 6. Do you see the adoption of RFID speeding up across Europe, and is that why being able to upgrade to RFID is important? “RFID has been talked about for a while and many retailers are now beginning to adopt this technology. We are also seeing the emergence of Bluetooth and NFC, while some retailers are experimenting with other wireless technology, Chatbots, VR, AR and AI. The customer journey is more complex and a diverse range of solutions are being created that help stores communicate with customers and improve the shopper experience.Over the next 12 months expect to see some exciting design concepts that can be utilised across the retail industry" So really, it’s not just about upgrading to RFID anymore, it’s about all round connectivity. By offering a wide range of ‘intelligent’ options, our NEO electronics present retailers with the ability to upgrade at any time; we are expanding retailer options beyond what has ever been possible with entry/exit systems.” 7. Connectivity is a key USP of NEO; how are retailers looking to connect their stores and what are the common challenges? “As we just touched on, connectivity is playing an ever increasingly important role in the retail industry. Different technologies can be combined to provide wider information and hugely valuable, actionable data for retailers. NEO will become an active contributor to this data flow and will provide many different insights that will help a retail store run more effectively, not only in reducing losses, but improving customer engagement.” 8. 75% of retailers globally say their major investments in the next decade will be in in-store tech. Why is it important retailers introduce new technologies, like NEO, into their stores now? “Recent studies have shown that bricks and mortar stores are still an important part of the customer journey. In fact, a large percentage of shoppers still want to visit stores despite the ease of shopping online. But however they choose to shop, their expectations remain similar – they want to easily find what they are looking for, they expect instant customer service, and, perhaps most importantly, they want an easy checkout. This is where technology, like NEO, becomes a key part of a physical store’s modern day infrastructure. Delivering actionable, real time data to staff in-store, can significantly improve the consumer experience, keeping customers loyal and the store relevant in this new landscape.”

Since opening in October 2014, Andamar Lifestyle Center struggled to contain strong Veracruz winds, which consistently left its swinging doors open and exposed the facility to heat, humidity, and sea breezes. In turn, this allowed the shopping centre’s air conditioning to escape, resulting in a second challenge: higher electricity expenses. Retail door access challenges Andamar Lifestyle Center is home to over 100 different stores spread throughout the nearly 2 million square feet of retail, restaurant, and lesiure space. Taking the mall’s estimated 5.3 million annual visitors into account, and the fact that 40% of them are entering through the main entrance, the air infiltration and loss situation became unsustainable. As a result, Rosa María Bueno, director of Andamar, began looking for solutions. “At first, we tried to find a way to solve the problem without getting rid of the manual doors that were already installed. So, we had about one guard at every door to make sure the doors were closed or to hold them shut against the wind. The reality is that we weren’t going to solve the problem that way,” Bueno explained. Visual design and ocean views Two important factors the centre needed to consider were the location and use of each door. In addition to its main guest entrances, Andamar has entryways to its terraces and ocean views, which are primarily used by waiters in transit – making easy access a must. “Because we’re beside the ocean, many people go outside to enjoy the air, take photos, and eat; as a result, waiters go in and out with their hands full of food, huge trays, etc. We needed to find the right entryway that wouldn’t make this process any more difficult,” Bueno said. Andamar Lifestyle Center is home to over 100 different stores spread throughout the nearly 2 million square feet Andamar also had to consider its original architects’ opinions. “The architects who designed the centre were very worried that the new doors would change its visual design and obstruct the ocean views, two important points that were taken into account from the beginning. After a detailed search, we found the ideal solution with Boon Edam,” the director said. Boon Edam revolving door solution In total, the shopping centre installed eight Boon Edam doors: three Crystal TQ automatic revolving doors, three Crystal TQ manual revolving doors, and two Crystal BoonAssist semi-automatic revolving doors. With the help of AVANCE Inteligente, a local door installation company, each door was installed with the specific entryway’s purpose and location in mind. Bueno affirmed that, in addition to receiving a customised analysis, the shopping centre experienced nonstop assistance and dedication from Boon Edam support staff during the project’s duration. This led to the right solutions, and gave the client complete confidence in the quality and adaptability of Boon Edam’s team. “We’re very happy with the solution from all angles. It meets its functional and aesthetic purposes, it contributes to our positive image, and the doors have allowed for the flow of visitors to achieve a good rhythm,” Bueno concluded.