Mobile surveillance

At this year's Security trade fair in Essen, SeeTec will be presenting video management solutions for a wide range of applications and industries. Apart from industry-specific, real-world video applications, interested parties will also get a first glimpse of new functionalities in the SeeTec 2018 product line up. Video solutions in theme worlds From 25 to 28 September 2018, SeeTec will be demonstrating integrated video solutions in theme worlds dedicated to different fields of use at booth 5E30 in hall 5 at Messe Essen. The renowned German video software provider has boosted its trade fair presence to more than 150 m2 this year and will feature its solution expertise for various vertical markets and application areas. To this end, interested parties will find six industry and application specific theme worlds where they can experience solutions covering the specific requirements of their respective vertical market in live demonstrations. SeeTec staff with in-depth knowledge are standing by to advise partners and end customers. Two additional booth areas cover cyber security and privacy topics as well as an overview of the SeeTec integration ecosystem. Especially the latter is of great interest to users who want to fit SeeTec Cayuga into the architecture of an existing security system. Therefore, in the 'Ecosystem Theme World' the SeeTec experts will show the versatility of the software’s open design, and how to use the numerous integration choices for best results. Intelligent video management SeeTec’s 'Logistics Theme World' shows how logistic processes can be optimised and made more efficient by intelligently combining process data with video footage In the 'Public Safety Theme World', SeeTec will present how an intelligent video management can help reduce crime, attract business, and provide security for local citizens. Moreover, in cooperation with Nokia, the latest developments in deployment of video systems in mobile networks will be showcased. Furthermore, SeeTec’s 'Logistics Theme World' shows how logistic processes can be optimised and made more efficient by intelligently combining process data with video footage, thus creating added value for customers. "Our theme worlds are a great way to present the various fields of use and the many benefits of a modern video solution to our different target groups," explains Andreas Conrad, Marketing Director at SeeTec. "This year we even extended the theme concept to also address more general issues that are of concern to our customers. I am of course talking about the 'hot topics' Cybersecurity and GDPR." Andreas Conrad continues to explain: "Especially the latter has recently caught quite some attention but has been on our radar ever since we started developing video solutions. This is why we want to highlight the many integrated functionalities that help our customers to be GDPR-compliant, but also what our software already offers in terms of hardening a security solution against cyber-attacks."

360 Vision Technology technical partner Ogier Electronics, report strong support for the newly launched Invictus cost-effective, high-performance, ruggedised all-in-one PTZ camera, during their demonstration at SecurityTWENTY 18 Conference and Exhibition (ST18 North), Harrogate. At the close of last week’s ST18 North, Ogier’s Sales and Marketing Director, Mark Rainbow, reported consistently positive feedback to Invictus from visiting delegates. Benefit of less infrastructure “Along with very attractive pricing for its high-level of performance and rugged build quality, delegates were clearly impressed with the Ogier Radar/Invictus camera combination for applications such as wide-area and perimeter fence line intruder/activity detection,” says Mark. “We already have the camera combination installed at Tilbury Docks, where the Radar/Invictus combo is monitored by Netwatch Open Site Surveillance 24/7, ensuring highly-effective security for Hyundai new vehicle storage.” “I see Invictus being the ideal full 1080P HD, ultra low-light camera for off-grid temporary/rapid deployment mobile surveillance rigs, where Invictus’s low power consumption will greatly assist the longevity of critical battery power supply in the field. Lower cost than installing a number of traditional surveillance cameras and along with the benefit of less infrastructure being required, the Ogier Radar/Invictus camera combination for wide-area monitoring was very well received by installers.” Latest ONVIF 2.4 Profile S compliant protocols makes integration of Invictus into our radar systems simple and fast" Attracting more installers “We had a number of enquiries about the combo’s use for quarries, mines, solar fields and warehouse loading yards/truck storage facilities. For us, the latest ONVIF 2.4 Profile S compliant protocols makes integration of Invictus into our radar systems simple and fast, it just works.” “The new Invictus camera’s unparalleled mix of competitive cost and Predator low-light camera imaging technology seems to be attracting more and more installers to 360 Vision’s latest offering,” says Mark Rees, Business Development Director at 360 Vision. “It’s great to hear Mark Rainbow’s exhibition feedback on the Ogier Radar/Invictus combination is inspiring integrators to look at adapting the novel technology for high-security surveillance detection applications.”

Matrix exhibited its Telecom and Security solutions at Matrix Impact, its maiden event held in Kolkata at the Hotel Radisson. The event was conducted in association with regional partner Chalissery. Matrix presented PBX, PRASAR UCS – Pure IP Solution for modern enterprises that support up to 2,100 IP users from a single box at the event. The product finds its applications in hospitality, multi-location, retail, healthcare and other industry verticals where mobility is the key for productivity. The SIMADO range of GSM Gateways was the limelight for apparent benefits of wireless connectivity and pocket friendly telephony costs. Matrix displayed its hospitality PBX that supports calling activities in hotels from 40 to 3,000 rooms. The PBX offers integration with well-known Property Management Software (PMS) without any middleware, helping hotelier manage routine operations and create an enhanced guest experience. Matrix also exhibited their scalable gateways which can be deployed in standalone mode and offer easy switch between PRI, GSM, IP and Analog networks from a single chassis. Matrix SPARSH VP710 - Smart Video IP phone also remained in the spotlight at the event. Matrix Extreme series NVR Matrix displayed their new Extreme series of Network Video Recorder (NVRX) at the event. These high storage NVRs are equipped with 4K Decoding Capacity and H.265 Compression, along with characteristics like cascading (up to 20 NVRs), camera-wise recording retention and database level integration. It also has plenty of other distinct features like high resolution recording, playback, and simultaneous local and remote monitoring along with storage retention for a higher number of days. Moreover, these latest NVRs are also backed with intelligent video analytics that helps detect threats and send instant notifications for real-time security. These comprehensive, flexible, reliable, and integrated NVRXs provide a proficient, persistent and preventive security solution, suitable for enterprises and multi-location offices. Additionally, Matrix also exhibited a wide range of IP cameras and their video management software – SATATYA SAMAS. To cut down the server cost, Matrix presented its standalone access control solution where one can connect with 255 devices and 25,000 users Biometric access control solutions Matrix also unfolded its latest range of biometric time-attendance and access control solutions. Mobile being the next generation technology in terms of security, Matrix displayed its “Your Mobile is Your Identity” solution. In mobile-based access control, a user either scans the QR code through his/her mobile or just twists the mobile to get access using Bluetooth. Using mobile application, a user can mark attendance automatically using GPS or Wi-Fi. To cut down the server cost, Matrix presented its standalone access control solution where one can connect with 255 devices and 25,000 users. Additionally, to enhance security, Matrix biometric solutions can be integrated with any video surveillance solution. It will capture real-time images when any pre-defined event occurs. Furthermore, Matrix showcased access control for data centres – a centralised biometric authentication for data centres and data racks. “The event was successful to meet its objective. The engagement of system integrators in different applications was highly appreciated. We look forward to have mutual growth while working with these system integrators,” said Ruchir Talati, National Sales Manager.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament is bringing 32 national teams and more than 400,000 foreign football fans from all over the world to 12 venues in 11 cities in Russia. Fans are crowding into cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kazan. Given continuing global concerns about terrorism, security is top-of-mind. Protection of the World Cup games in Russia is focusing on an “integrated safety, security and service approach,” according to officials. Combining the term “security” with the terms “safety” and “service” is not an accident. An aggressive security stance is necessary, but at the end of the day, fan safety is paramount, and a service-oriented approach ensures a positive fan experience. Medical responders will be working side-by-side with police and antiterrorism personnel. Risk management best practices We asked Sean T. Horner and Ben Joelson, directors of the Chertoff Group, a global advisory firm focused on best practices in security and risk management, to comment on security at FIFA World Cup 2018. Although not involved in securing the 2018 World Cup, the Chertoff Group is experienced at securing large events and enterprises using risk management, business practices and security. Integration is another important aspect of protecting the games, says Horner. The use of multiple resources, including Russian military, intelligence and law enforcement, will be closely integrated to provide the best security for the large-scale event in each of the host cities, he says. The approach will be centralised and flexible, with resource deployment guided by effective situational awareness. Primary security and emergency operations centres will be dispersed throughout each host city “There is a unified command structure at the Russian Federation level, and they will keep resources in reserve and shift them as needed to various events and venues based on any specific intelligence, in effect deploying resources where threats are greatest,” says Joelson. “There will also be some regional commands, and resources will incorporate a spectrum of police and military personnel ranging from the ‘cop on the beat’ to the Spetsnaz, the Russian ‘special forces'.” Primary security and emergency operations centres will be dispersed throughout each host city, and additional forces can be shifted as necessary, he notes. Role of law enforcement In Russia, the lines of separation between law enforcement and the military are not as stark as in the United States, for example, where military forces are restricted from deployment for domestic law enforcement by the Posse Comitatus Act. In Russia, there is no such restriction.  A broad range of technology will play a role at the World Cup, Horner and Joelson agree. Technology will be used primarily as a force multiplier and a decision-support tool for security personnel. There are robust CCTV systems in many Russian cities, and mobile CCTV systems, such as camera towers or mobile security centres on wheels, will also be deployed. Technologies will include infrared cameras, flood lights, and ferromagnetic screening systems to scan hundreds of individuals as they walk by. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors. Behaviour analytics will be used as a decision-support tool. In addition to security in public areas, private CCTV systems in hotels, at transportation hubs, and inside the venues themselves will be leveraged. Video analytics and detection will help personnel review live view of people who may be acting suspiciously or who leave a bag unattended. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors Rigorous anti-terrorism measures A Fan ID card is required to enter the 2018 World Cup Tournament, even for Russian residents. The Russians have an aggressive stance against domestic terrorism, which will also help ensure the safety of the World Cup games, say Horner and Joelson. Terrorist group ISIS has promised “unprecedented violence” at the games, but they make similar threats at every major global event. Russia has been an active force disrupting ISIS in Syria, and experts suggest that losing ground geographically could lead to addition “asymmetric” terrorist attacks. However, Russia is leveraging all their intelligence resources to identify any plots and deploying their security apparatus to disrupt any planned attacks, experts say. Russia’s rigorous anti-terrorism measures include a total ban on planes and other flying devices (such as drones) around the stadiums hosting the World Cup. Private security In addition to military, intelligence and law enforcement personnel, private security will play a have a high profile during the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Private security personnel will be on the front lines in hotels and in “fan zones.” They will operate magnetometers at entrances, perform bag checks, enforce restrictions on hand-carried items, etc. Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games. Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games Another private security function at the World Cup is executive protection of dignitaries and high-net-worth individuals who will be attending. Executive protection professionals will arrive early, conduct advanced security assessments before VIPs arrive, and secure trusted and vetted transportation (including armoured cars in some cases.) VIPs will include both Russian citizens and foreign (including U.S.) dignitaries attending the games. Private security details will be out in force. Aggressive security approach Overeager and outspoken fans are a part of the football culture, but Russia will deploy a near-zero tolerance policy against hooliganism and riots. An overwhelming force presence will take an aggressive approach to curbing any civil disturbances, and offenders will be removed quickly by Russian security forces. Strict restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol will be enforced in the venue cities before and after the matches. Officials will also be cognisant of the possibility of a riot or other event being used as a distraction to draw attention from another area where a terrorist event is planned. It will be a delicate balance between deploying an aggressive security approach and preserving the fan experience. Joelson notes that freedom of speech is not as valued in Russia as in other parts of the world, so the scales will be even more tipped toward security. “The last thing they want is for things to get out of control,” says Horner. “The event is putting Russia on the world stage, and they want visitors to walk away safely after having a great time and wanting to go back in the future.” Attendees should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations" Precautions for World Cup attendees Attendees to the World Cup in Russia should take some basic precautions, Horner and Joelson agree. For example, Russia requires a translated, notarised letter explaining any prescription drugs. The country has a more aggressive foreign intelligence environment, so visitors cannot depend on their data being private. Joelson recommends the usual “social media hygiene” and privacy settings. Visitors should not post information about their travel plans or locations, and it’s best to travel with a disposable mobile phone that does not contain personal information. Location tracking should be deactivated. Travellers should also beware of talking and sharing information with others, or of saying anything derogatory. “They should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations,” says Joelson. “If you bring a personal electronic device, you should expect that it has been compromised,” says Horner. Text messages and email will not be private, and he suggests creating an email address used only for travel. Don’t leave drinks unattended. Travellers from the U.S. should register at the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) operated by the U.S. State Department. “Plan before you travel and before you get to the airport,” says Horner.

Honeywell, a global leader in Connected Buildings, has unveiled the Honeywell Vector Space Sense, a software solution that shows where, when and how building spaces are used at any given point in time. As a result, the building operations team can make better-informed real estate and space usage decisions that provide opportunities to optimise costs and promote better building experiences for occupants. "From higher levels of employee productivity to healthier environments that help drive cost savings, Connected Buildings have real benefits for owners, operators and occupants," said Vimal Kapur, president and chief executive officer, Honeywell Building Technologies. "Honeywell Vector Space Sense is the latest example of how Honeywell is using cutting-edge technology to enable smarter, data-driven buildings that work for their organisations." Honeywell Vector Space Sense is the latest example of how Honeywell is using cutting-edge technology to enable smarter, data-driven buildings" Honeywell Vector Space Sense Recent studies indicate most offices around the world are under-utilised by as much as half of their actual capacity due to factors such as shifting work schedules, mobile technology usage and changing business needs. However, many facility managers lack the comprehensive insights required to take action to address these usage issues. This can lead to overpaying for unused space, wasted energy usage, off-temperature spaces and other inefficiencies that negatively impact an organisation's bottom line. Honeywell Vector Space Sense helps address this issue by gathering and analysing data from multiple sources throughout a building to deliver actionable insights that help personnel better utilise, optimise and prioritise building spaces. The facility team can view these insights through detailed, information-rich dashboards and reports incorporating visualisation methods like maps, usage profiles, overall trends and other metrics to show where, when, and how space is used, along with opportunities to optimise usage and help reduce costs. For example, organisations can gain the necessary insights to repurpose unused spaces for more productive uses, make better-informed decisions about future space investments or divestments, and better align building equipment schedules with actual usage patterns. Honeywell Vector Space Sense is in use at London Health Sciences Centre, a London, Ontario-based hospital network with 15,000 employees  Data analysation and security Honeywell Vector Space Sense is in use at London Health Sciences Centre, a London, Ontario-based hospital network with 15,000 employees that covers 1.9 million square feet and served more than 1 million patients in 2017. The hospital network chose to implement the technology to better understand the use of its clinical and office spaces, following complaints of overcrowding and office expansion requests. With Honeywell Vector Space Sense, the network discovered that overcrowding in certain areas only happened at specific times, while other spaces often went unused for long periods of time. This information helped inform better space reallocation and scheduling. "Hospitals are complex systems, and not only are the operational costs high, so are the stakes. There's no room for error when it comes to using your space most effectively," said Derek Lall, director of facilities management, London Health Sciences Centre. "As a regional acute hospital, we must strike a balance between efficiency and comfort to ensure we're delivering the best care possible and getting the most out of available resources. Honeywell Vector Space Sense is helping us do that by providing a level of insight all in one place that we'd otherwise have no way of obtaining." Backed by a cloud-based infrastructure, Honeywell Vector Space Sense follows a three-step process that starts with gathering space utilisation data from multiple sources Cloud security Backed by a cloud-based infrastructure, Honeywell Vector Space Sense follows a three-step process that starts with gathering space utilisation data from multiple sources such as smart lights, bluetooth beacons, mobile apps, and other sensor-connected devices and equipment. The solution then applies analytics to the collected data, using customised algorithms and space utilisation models to deliver actionable insights—the third and final step. "Expenses associated with unused building spaces often go unnoticed, simply because it's so difficult to get an accurate, moment-by-moment view into how building spaces are used, or if they're being used at all," said John Rajchert, president, Building Solutions, Honeywell Building Technologies. "Honeywell Vector Space Sense takes the mystery out of space usage through real-time, IoT-enabled insights that give organisations the real picture of where and how people are using spaces, so they can get the most out of their buildings.”

ADT Inc., a provider of monitored security and interactive home and business automation solutions in the United States and Canada, today announced that, in addition to being the exclusive provider of security solutions for Tuesday Morning, it has now entered into a chainwide agreement for an extended service plan that includes maintenance for all security solutions. About Tuesday Morning Tuesday Morning, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a national retail chain established in 1974 specialising in both domestic and international closeouts of medium to high-end name brand gifts, luxury home textiles, home furnishings, housewares and seasonal décor. One of the original off-price retailers, Tuesday Morning offers unique home and lifestyle goods. ADT monitors intrusion detection and fire alarm panels, and installs and services the IP-based video systems for Tuesday Morning ADT takes over Tuesday Morning’s security systems Prior to engaging ADT for its security needs, Tuesday Morning operated its own central station to monitor its alarm systems. ADT has since converted all systems and taken over the monitoring for both intrusion detection and fire alarm panels where applicable. ADT also installs and services the IP-based video systems for Tuesday Morning. “We are very pleased with the service and support we receive from ADT,” said Sanford Siegel, Tuesday Morning’s Senior Manager of Loss Prevention and Safety. “Their professional monitoring stations provide us with greater peace of mind that our stores, our associates, and our guests are well protected.” Dedicated support staff Tuesday Morning is part of ADT’s 1Touch program, administered out of its National Account Operations Center. This enhanced service provides Tuesday Morning with a dedicated project manager and a support team whose charter is to deliver exceptional customer service and support. eSuite™ helps streamline security solutions administration from single secure portal ADT’s eSuite™ functionalities They have also adopted ADT’s eSuite™ Account Management tool which helps them streamline the administration of their security solutions from a single secure portal or any connected mobile device. eSuite provides the ability to view their data, modify schedules, view tests, incidents, alarms and service calls—while providing audit trails and reporting for compliance. “This latest contract for a chainwide extended service plan further cements our partnership with Tuesday Morning. We are now in a better position to ensure that their systems are working at peak performance while helping them more accurately manage their services,” commented Bob Dale, ADT’s Senior Vice President of National Account Sales.

Ask a student, or pretty much anyone, what they think about “access control” and you’ll get a shrug. Conversely, all of us are enthusiastic about security and convenience. Students across Europe are discovering SMARTair wireless access control gives them both. Adding SMARTair access control to a door involves just replacing a standard cylinder or escutcheon with a digital, smartphone- or smart-card–operated electronic lock. It’s hassle-free to make the switch to SMARTair. And with a system design focused on user experience, SMARTair takes some of the everyday pain out of student life. Wherever you fit SMARTair, it’s easy to configure access cards to enable payments in the canteen or at vending machines; for changing room locker locks; and for the photocopier or library loans. You can’t do that with a metal key. MIFARE RFID cards At Madrid’s prestigious Colegio Universitario de Estudios Financieros (CUNEF) students now open doors with smart MIFARE RFID cards instead of keys At Madrid’s prestigious Colegio Universitario de Estudios Financieros (CUNEF) students now open doors with smart MIFARE RFID cards instead of keys. CUNEF fitted escutcheons to monitor and ease access to different areas of the university for 1,600 students, without the need for expensive wired door locks. If a student loses their card, there’s no threat to campus security. A manager issues a new credential which automatically cancels the lost card — much faster than changing a lock. When Mezzino took ownership of Rialto Court — apartments for students attending Durham University and Teesside University — they replaced a mechanical master key system with SMARTair. From the company’s point of view, the high annual tenant turnover and a need for scheduled cleaning and summer shutdown were becoming difficult to manage with physical keys. Students also reaped the benefits of their new, user-friendly access system. They have the confidence no previous resident of their flat has copied a physical key. At Funway Academic Resort in Madrid, student rooms are also locked with SMARTair escutcheons. Energy-saving wall devices inside rooms regulate electricity use, and students each have their own safe locked with a SMARTair cabinet lock. The Funway gym, study rooms, games rooms, swimming pool and changing rooms, spa and staff areas are also locked with SMARTair escutcheons — and open with the same smart-card. SMARTair Openow solution The recent launch of the SMARTair Openow solution puts credentials on a mobile phoneThere’s more to come from SMARTair. The recent launch of the SMARTair Openow solution puts credentials on a mobile phone. With SMARTair and the Openow app, students can open their rooms and authorised doors with a smartphone. If you have your phone, you’re already carrying your keys. Student services or facilities managers issue virtual keys over-the-air — and can revoke them whenever they choose — so there’s no need for a key-card handover meeting, at the beginning or end of term. A time-limited virtual key arrives ahead of the first day and automatically expires when it’s time to vacate your halls. Mobile credentials Mobile credentials will be a big hit. Student life goes on inside the handset, as much as IRL (“In Real Life”, for the uninitiated). Last year’s Deloitte Mobile Consumer Survey found a fifth of 18- to 24-year-olds even check their phone for messages in the middle of the night*. From a security standpoint, phone-based credentials have another advantage. Checking our phones is “habitual”, “unconscious” and “repetitive”, according to one study**. We know very quickly if it is missing. How soon would you notice a missing plastic card, especially if you were enjoying yourself on a night out? Biometric security Plus, a virtual key on every student’s smartphone potentially provides an extra layer of biometric protection for every controlled university door Plus, a virtual key on every student’s smartphone potentially provides an extra layer of biometric protection for every controlled university door. Fingerprint, and even face and iris, scanners are commonplace on smartphones. ”Generation Z students were raised as digital natives,” says Felix Moran, SMARTair Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY. ”They expect convenience as a standard feature, not a mechanical solution used in Ancient Egypt. In Europe’s increasingly international, marketized higher education ecosystem, attracting these tech-savvy students is critical, as is keeping them satisfied with the campus experience.” SMARTair TS1000 software The complete SMARTair solution includes wireless escutcheons, cylinders, wall readers, locker locks and more; the intuitive SMARTair TS1000 software; and the enhanced new Openow app functionality. It works out the box and is easy to install — and even easier to operate.

Communication makes the world much, much smaller - but it also becomes critical to everyone. Once life-enriching communication technologies are embraced, not only do we like and enjoy the benefits, but we also become hooked on it day and night. "There is no doubt that the transportation industry is benefiting from always available communications, making sure drivers, mechanics, dispatchers are always connected and can exchange information when necessary," says Sagi Subocki, Vice President of Products and Marketing for MCC technology leader Softil. "However, for the most part until now, the transportation industry has had to rely on the traditional radio or simply standard mobile phones to perform all communications tasks. That's about to change with the advent of Mission Critical Communications over LTE and 5G as defined in the 3GPP Release 13-15 standard," adds Subocki. Mission critical communication over LTE MCC over LTE offers push to talk, push to video, text and multimedia chat, as well as location information for groups and point to point communications Mission critical communication (MCC) over LTE offers push to talk, push to video, text and multimedia chat, as well as location information for groups and point to point communications. Think about a driver who can push a button and instantly talk to all drivers within a 50-mile radius, for example, to inform them of road conditions, accidents, road works and other incidents. In the event of a breakdown, the truck driver can quickly obtain help from experts using video chat, which makes a driver's life a lot easier. Using the same MCC over LTE capabilities, the driver can see the location of all other drivers using the same radios, can engage in chat sessions with nearby garages and much, much more. And let's not forget that MCC over LTE communications can be prioritised over regular public mobile voice and data traffic, which can help in the case of accidents and natural disasters. Advanced communication solutions in Mining While different from the transportation industry, mining's reliance on advanced communication technologies might be even greater than the needs of the transportation market. Subocki explains: "Mission critical push to talk and push to video with guaranteed, prioritised delivery might well make the difference for mining workers. The ability to ask for urgent assistance simply at the push of a button is crucial in the day-to-day operations of an oil rig and a diamond mine." But the benefits of MCC over LTE don't stop there. As MCC over LTE communication is delivered over modern, very capable, rugged smartphones, these devices can be used to interface and collect data from all available sensors - air quality, temperature, radiation, presence of dangerous gases - all this information can be obtained automatically via MCC over LTE integration with IoT and can be used to increase safety. Drones in MCC over LTE In addition to engaging with all sensors, MCC over LTE communications can include drones which would provide video feeds whenever necessary In addition to engaging with all sensors, MCC over LTE communications can include drones which would provide video feeds whenever necessary - and the 3GPP MCPTT Release 16 standard will extend mission critical communication to include robots, which might be priceless. "Think about the implications of sending an MCC enabled robot to investigate a mine explosion and you'll see the future of MCC over LTE and 5G communications in the mining industry," adds Subocki. Market Value and Outlook A report from ABI Research found the total mission-critical communications market for base stations, repeaters, handsets and infrastructure in 2022 will be US$10 billion. The North American market continues to account for more than half of this world market with the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region in second place with a 20 percent market share. Public-safety radio was the ancestor of critical communications providing mission-critical voice services and continues to represent over half of this market, followed by the industrial, transportation and utility segments. However, the need for mobile broadband data has also entered the equation driving critical communications systems to evolve to digital radio for data handling and spectrum efficiency. As a result, critical communications systems are slowly evolving from the current TETRA, Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) and Project 25 (P25) to coexist and interoperate with Long Term Evolution (LTE)-based systems. Softil's MCC over LTE Leadership Softil is a leader in Mission Critical Communication over LTE solutions for developers. Historically, Softil always focused on the full embrace of open communication standards - starting from close participation in the work of the appropriate SDOs, then developing best-of-breed APIs and implementation of the relevant standards, and most importantly, paying utmost attention to the interoperability of the offered solution by active participation and leading all relevant industry-wide interoperability testing events. Softil actively participates in development of the MCC over LTE standards in 3GPP, as well as interoperability testing at the ETSI Plugtest Events. Most importantly, Softil 3GPP Release 13-15 compliant client SDK implementation had been already commercially deployed on the market - in Korea, Softil powers latest and greatest implementation of the MCC over LTE-R communication devices installed on the newest high-speed train line, such as one connecting Incheon airport to PyongChang during the Olympic games.

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

HID Global, a worldwide provider in trusted identity solutions, announced that 85-year-old fire protection provider RAEL Automatic Sprinkler Company and integrator Automated Decision have deployed HID Trusted Tag Services at one of Manhattan’s most iconic skyscrapers. The combined solutions help secure, digitise, automate and streamline inspection and maintenance of the building’s massive fire and safety sprinkler system. "HID Trusted Tag Services are a real competitive differentiator for us when we bid for projects now," said David Israel, President, RAEL Automatic Sprinkler Company. "We plan to deploy it in other noteworthy buildings and we’re exploring using it for other mission-critical equipment we inspect and repair as well." The RAEL solution incorporates HID Trusted Tag Services into Automated Decisions’ work order management system and mobile inspection app HID Trusted Tag Services HID Trusted Tag Services empower robust Internet of Things (IoT) applications by attaching unique and trusted identities to virtually any object that can be read by mobile devices. Smartphones and other devices can then be used for innovative use cases, without compromising the privacy of end users. The RAEL solution incorporates HID Trusted Tag Services into Automated Decisions’ work order management system and mobile inspection app. The deployment includes HID’s trusted and tamper-evident NFC tag using dual NFC and QR code technology; unique cryptographic authentication and a unique QR code placed on every component of the RAEL sprinklers. After authenticating to HID’s cloud authentication service, RAEL technicians move through the building, tapping each applied tag with their mobile devices to authenticate upon completion of their component inspection or repair. Proof of presence Each individual tap generates a unique encrypted code appended to a URL to provide proof of presence. This process confirms the technician was physically at the site and conducted the required sprinkler inspections and repairs. "Proof of presence was critical for us,” said Israel, “as property managers are now expected to deliver a much higher level of compliance reporting." The solution also logs the user, tap time and date into the Automated Decisions work order management platform. Mobile online access provides inspectors with service request maintenance records, sprinkler part specifications, diagrams and photographs. Combined HID and Automated Decisions solution has enabled faster, more efficient inspections and repairs Combined tag services and mobile devices "That RAEL and Automated Decisions are leveraging our offering for fire and safety at an immense, iconic skyscraper reinforces the breadth of IoT use cases that our identification and sensing portfolio addresses," said Mark Robinton, Director of Business Development & Strategic Innovation, Identification Technologies with HID Global. "Facility managers are also increasingly seeking to combine the use of HID Trusted Tag Services and mobile devices to automate other safety and security functions, including guard tour and key management, as buildings become more intelligent and connected." In addition to providing peace of mind to RAEL and their property management clients, RAEL also reported the combined HID and Automated Decisions solution has enabled faster, more efficient inspections and repairs, improved first-time fix rates and fewer repeat visits.

Airbus has expanded the range of its application portfolio for the Tactilon Dabat and partnered with new professional application developers. The aim is to better serve the communications markets in the field of public safety, transportation and healthcare. At the CCW exhibition in Berlin from 15 to 17 May 2018, Airbus is showcasing selected applications for professionals that combine multimedia real-time functions with highest standards of security.  “The apps that we showcase at the CCW work in various areas, whether it is industry, public safety or the health sector. They meet specific customer needs and requirements for different regions in the world,” explains Rahim Zaknoun, Head of Innovation & Developer Ecosystem at Secure Land Communications of Airbus. "We selected these apps for our customers and created them for the hybrid Tactilon Dabat.” For instance, the digitalised Triage application from Exomi helps first responders (paramedics) to send complex health data of patients from the ambulance on the scene to the hospital. The delivery of the constantly updated information is standardised and reliable. It can easily be shared not only via the Tactilon Dabat, the Android smartphone and Tetra radio in one device, but also on other platforms in control rooms or in the field. Thus, the application streamlines processes and accelerates a more accurate treatment for the patients. Commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display based on a map configuration with GPS Live video sharing platform The application ES-Core features a live video sharing function that is secure and supports external video sources, such as from drones or vehicles. Even with little radio coverage the transmission is of high quality. Moreover, footing can be stored as evidence or for the purpose of analysis. “Clearly, this is a tool for police officers. However, paramedics work increasingly with this app on the scene and companies can also master situations by transmitting a live video stream,” says Rahim Zaknoun. Another application can fill frequently the gap of non-existing radio coverage in many public buildings: the ‘indoor positioning’ system for large sites creates a real-time situational awareness when communication groups move around in- and outdoors. Based on a map configuration with a GPS function, commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display. The application serves especially security personnel in airports, train stations, or event sites: no configuration is needed, a seamless in- and outdoor positioning is put in place and the app works without broadband connection.  Track Worker Protection In order to save lives of railway track workers and minimise the risk of collisions, the company Intelligence on Wheels invented the app ‘Track Worker Protection’. This application with a clear map display receives permanent train location updates. Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps" The signals will be sent from the train operator’s control room and the train itself, which is equipped with a Train Collision Avoidance System. Critical scenarios can now be easily managed with the Tactilon Dabat and the ‘track worker protection’. “Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps,” says Rahim Zaknoun. “It enables the innovation and professional application development on the top of Airbus’ existing communication technology. It boosts our strong developer ecosystem."

ProdataKey (PDK), an innovator of cloud-based networked and wireless access control products and services, and Dwelo LLC, a provider of smart-home solutions purpose-built for apartment owners, managers and residents, has announced a partnership that is seamlessly integrating PDK’s cloud access control technology into the Dwelo smart apartment platform. Dwelo’s web and mobile software, which currently offers apartment dwellers the ability to control smart devices such as light switches, thermostats and door deadbolts for their individual units, has added features to manage access to common areas of their building or community, such as entry gates, clubhouse, gym and laundry facilities.  These spaces can now be secured by PDK’s cloud access control solution, pdk.io, providing apartment property managers and owners with valuable operational efficiencies. The administrative software interface, not visible to residents, enables management to easily establish and enforce authorised hours of use for common facilities. An audit trail reports all traffic into the property, including any one-time credentials issued by residents, which can be used to assist in investigations in cases of theft or vandalism. When residents move out, their access to unit, common, and perimeter access is immediately deactivated, eliminating the risks that accompany traditional keys that would otherwise remain in circulation. The system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue  Scalable and affordable security solutions Beyond operational efficiencies, residents can unlock perimeter and common doors or gates using the same mobile app they use to control their apartments. In addition, they have the ability to use their phones or computers to generate temporary, one-time credentials that allow visitors, delivery and service people to gain access as needed. These features add to the conveniences afforded to residents living in Dwelo-enabled smart apartments.  Both Dwelo and PDK have built successful businesses by leveraging the power of cloud technology to create scalable, affordable solutions that offer unprecedented ease of installation for contractors and simple usability for customers. With their combined areas of expertise in home automation and security, together they see an opportunity to serve a large and generally neglected market sector – apartment renters who desire the same smart home technological conveniences as today’s home owners and seek out communities that offer those smart home solutions. The Dwelo/PDK solution is available for both new construction and retrofits. After an initial per-unit installation charge, the system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue.  Enhanced apartment living “Dwelo is thrilled to be partnering with such an innovative company as PDK. PDK is a technology leader in the electronic access control space, and Dwelo and its customers are already benefitting from their forward-thinking approach to access." Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector" "The consolidation of smart home control and perimeter and common area access control, in one platform, is a powerful marriage for multifamily property owners. We look forward, with PDK, to crafting more solutions that address the specific needs of these customers,” says Mike Rovito, CEO of Dwelo, LLC. “PDKs solution has been embraced by customers in the commercial sector for its simple ease of use and platform flexibility. Our wireless and PoE options allow for cost-effective takeover of legacy equipment, while supporting new construction projects with all the benefits derived from leveraging the network." "Our mantra, simplicity without compromise, dovetails perfectly with Dwelo’s corporate mission to enhance apartment living through easily accessible IoT technology. Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector,” says Evan Tree, CEO of ProdataKey.