Mobile surveillance

Revader Security, manufacturers of the Galaxy Mobile CCTV Tower have received a new order from Scorpion Security. Finished in the firm’s house colour with custom designed signage, Scorpion have named their towers ‘Stingers’. Scorpion Security purchased their first ‘Stinger’ at the end of last year. Based in Northampton, Scorpion has seen a dramatic increase in demand for its Stinger surveillance tower since the beginning of this year. Scorpion is fast developing its rental fleet of Stingers to augment its existing business of CCTV and alarm installations, manned security and mobile patrols. Power management system For rapid autonomous deployment, Revader Security’s mobile CCTV towers are unmatched" Mark Bennet, Managing Director at Scorpion Security had undertaken a survey of surveillance towers and found that the Galaxy Tower from Revader ticked all his boxes. He commented: “for rapid autonomous deployment, Revader Security’s mobile CCTV towers are unmatched. With continuous recording and transmission of video from five cameras, we are able to monitor very large areas reliably and without blind spots”. The mobile power base includes a diesel generator, fuel tank and reservoir batteries that will power the surveillance tower unattended for up to 60 days (load dependant). This unit is remotely monitored and controlled by its own power management system which sends warning emails, low fuel and battery power to CCTV operators when it necessitates human intervention. Ideal rental product Bennet added: “The Stinger is our secret weapon. With single person deployment and 24/7 operation, it significantly reduces overheads and makes for an ideal rental product for our company”. Revader Security, based in North Wales, has been manufacturing a range of mobile and redeployable CCTV products for the past 12 years. Revader Security is a small design and manufacturing company and is able to design new products utilising its technology base or customise any of its existing products.

Eagle Eye Networks unveiled enhancements to the Eagle Eye Cloud VMS supporting 15 additional third-party mobile and body worn cameras. The Eagle Eye VMS provides simultaneous operations, search, and cloud storage for fixed and mobile cameras. Managing and retrieving body-worn camera video has historically been a separate process from the primary video surveillance system. With Eagle Eye this can now be an integrated and cohesive process that requires less training, is more secure, and more reliable. The Eagle Eye mobile and body worn camera system includes: Viewing mobile and fixed camera footage in one cohesive interface eliminating the need for multiple applications. Archiving, storage, and retrieval of time-stamped mobile footage with GPS coordinates and tracking. Secure sharing of video via mp4 files or direct links to interested parties. An open platform that provides compatibility with a broad array of cameras. Unlimited video analytics from partners It's been proven repeatedly that open systems architectures win over proprietary systems" Today, Eagle Eye Networks provides support for over 3,500 mobile and fixed cameras. Access to a True Cloud system meaning virtually unlimited scalability, triple-redundant data centre architecture, full encrypted video, and comprehensive cyber security. Eagle Eye Networks' open API architecture, Eagle Eye Video API Platform, delivers unlimited video analytics from partners. AI Ready - With video stored in the cloud and open API's, new AI analysis is being continually developed and improved. "It's been proven repeatedly that open systems architectures win over proprietary systems. Eagle Eye Networks believes in open architecture standards and our platform, Eagle Eye Cloud VMS, demonstrates this. Extending our platform to encompass mobile cameras is a logical extension of our open camera platform. Our open platform ability to integrate third-party AI and Analytics is delivering on a broad set of applications for our customers," said Dean Drako, CEO of Eagle Eye Networks. Eagle Eye Networks customers have desired integration of mobile and fixed camera surveillance to reduce risk in commercial industries: in-home services, retail, guarding, commercial delivery services, real estate sales, and other service-oriented verticals. The mobile camera video and GPS data will be securely transferred to the Eagle Eye Cloud Data Center where video footage can be reviewed, analysed and stored.

Applying a quarter century of software experience, technology pioneer Rod Whisnant has joined System Surveyor as its CTO. He will lead the next stage of development for System Surveyor, an intelligent system design platform. The mobile, SaaS-based platform enables virtual teams to work together to better plan, install, and maintain the systems required in all commercial, education, healthcare, and government facilities. “Rod’s diverse background, strong focus on the user experience, and record of delivering robust competitive solutions to the market is an ideal fit for our vision for System Surveyor,” said Chris Hugman, CEO of System Surveyor. Delivering mobile products Whisnant has experience in SaaS, big data, analytics, machine learning, and e-commerce “His leadership will enable more powerful functionality and collaboration for the system professionals using our platform. His first order of business is expanding our technical team.” Whisnant has experience in SaaS, big data, analytics, machine learning, and e-commerce. He has held engineering and product leadership roles at both corporate teams and start-ups including Predictive Science, ExpressDigital, Cubic Corporation, Viewcast, and Dell Technologies. His work has included delivering web and mobile products with rich user interfaces to companies such as Verizon, the NFL, and Home Depot. Benefitting business and organisation “I’ve seen firsthand how much value System Surveyor brings to our customers, and the potential to further benefit their businesses and organisations is huge,” said Whisnant. “I look forward to building out our team and evolving the product to deliver innovative and powerful experiences for anyone involved in system design, delivery, and maintenance.” System Surveyor will be exhibiting at the Global Security Exchange (GSX) taking place Sept. 10-12 in Chicago. Meet Whisnant, Hugman, and the team in booth #1680 and test drive the digital map for IoT.

Ajax Systems, globally renowned manufacturer of innovative security solutions, announces a partnership with Oprema, renowned and rapidly growing independent security distributor in the UK. Oprema’s customers now have access to a full range of Ajax wireless products for complete protection of residential and commercial properties from intrusion, fire, and leaks. Remote access management Ajax users can remotely manage their systems, control appliances, and check the CCTV streams via mobile apps Ajax users can remotely manage their systems, control electrical appliances, and check the CCTV streams via mobile apps. Whenever the detectors spot a potential threat, the hub notifies the users via push-notifications, calls, and SMS. If an alarm response company oversees their property, it will also receive an alert. Ajax products are notable for their user-friendly design that gently fits any interior and a straightforward installation process. Jeweller radio-protocol connects all of the devices in the system on a distance of up to 2000 m from the hub central panel and allows them to serve up to 5-7 years on the pre-installed batteries. ReX intelligent signal range extender The system’s radio coverage area extends to up 16 sq. m using the ReX intelligent signal range extender. If an intruder attempts to interfere with the signal or jam it, the hub immediately raises an alarm. Ajax devices have earned the highest reliability grade available to the wireless security systems after testing in five independent accredited laboratories. The system runs on a proprietary software OS Malevich. It is immune to viruses, resistant to cyber-attacks, and regularly updates over the air to expand functionality. Oprema - Ajax Systems partnership Together with Oprema, we’re excited to bring Ajax, the next generation of wireless systems, to the UK security market" Aleksandr Konotopskyi, CEO/Founder at Ajax Systems, stated, “Oprema’s team is demonstrating an impressively profound dedication towards customer service, marketing, and operations management. Their far-sighted vision for innovative technologies and business qualities resonate with the core values at Ajax Systems. Together with Oprema, we’re excited to bring Ajax, the next generation of wireless systems, to the UK security market and stimuli its future development.” Ross Hawkins, Operations Director at Oprema said “We are always searching for the latest technology advancement in the industry for our customers. We are excited about this new partnership with Ajax. The new technology will provide our customers with new opportunities and advancements within the industry. We look forward to the future and working with Ajax as a key strategic partner.”

Limitless Security launches a new fixed cost managed solution for the housebuilding and construction industries. This fully managed service takes away the headaches and hassles involved in installing, managing and maintaining security equipment on building sites. It will enable housebuilders to reduce the incidence of break-ins, theft and vandalism whilst maintaining and managing the costs of security within acceptable limits.    Managed security solution This fully managed security solution includes detection, monitoring and response This fully managed security solution includes detection, monitoring and response using a SIA-licensed security guarding service. It covers everything from risk assessment, the supply, installation and management of all equipment, including Limitless Security’s battery operated VIDAR motion detectors with integrated image verification. Also provided are site security signage, documentation of any events for evidential purposes and the provision of information to responding agencies. “Our new service challenges the industry perception that the price of security may outweigh the cost of an intruder event. This is understandable when the costs of traditional manned guarding contracts and CCTV installations are taken into account,” said Adam Lees, Managing Director of Limitless Security. Fully managed service “We developed this fully managed service to meet the needs of housebuilders as it provides a complete solution for a single, fixed monthly cost to make budgeting easier and eliminate any unexpected additional charges.” Limitless Security monitors all installations around the clock from its Monitoring Centre which reacts and responds immediately should a security event occur. When required, SIA-licensed security guards are directed to an event location and VIDAR captured images can be sent to their smartphones or tablets to assist with identification.

Niagara Networks, the Open Visibility Platform pioneer, and L7 Defense, a cutting-edge cyber security vendor, announces that they have formed a partnership to bring Zero Trust security to API communication running across an organisation’s network. The L7 Defense application runs directly on Niagara Networks Open Visibility Platform which provides it full access to network traffic. The Open Visibility Platform offers enterprises, for the first time, on-demand deep cyber defense into their visibility layer. Network performance monitoring Open Visibility Platform is the only solution to offer network visibility and agility Ammune™ API Defense by L7 Defense monitors and evaluates the risk of requests made through an API exchange regardless of their identity or source, establishing a dynamic Zero Trust model adapted to the transient nature of APIs and North-South or East-West traffic flows. The L7 Defense solution utilises unsupervised machine learning to determine anomalous behaviours within API communication. The Open Visibility Platform from Niagara Networks utilises its Packetron™ powered Network Packet Broker and hosts best-of-breed applications to create an intelligence-driven visibility layer. Open Visibility Platform is the only solution to offer network visibility and agility for security and network performance monitoring by marrying the best of switching fabric speed and functionality with scalable, high-end intelligent processing. Critical cyber security foundation This unique joint solution ensures full packet visibility integrated with L7 Defense, providing automated mitigation response against API-based vulnerabilities and ensuring a more efficient and simplified security infrastructure. Unprotected APIs have been an open loophole for attackers to gain a foothold in a network" “Unprotected APIs have been an open loophole for attackers to gain a foothold in a network and carry out an attack by having a conduit for undetected command and control communication, exfiltration or the use of the API for reconnaissance or lateral movement,” said Yisrael Gross, Co-Founder and Vice President of Business Development at L7 Defense. “This exciting partnership with Niagara Networks offers a critical cyber security foundation providing customers with a new level of visibility, transparency and management.” API-based applications Ammune’s API Defense involves three key capabilities: Discover - Auto-discovery of the web, mobile and API-based applications that provide the potential attacking surface for API attacks. Detect - Auto-detection of outliers in API behaviour using the Ammune multi-profile model, which is adapted to protect from the main attack-category threats. Defend - Ammune™ can be installed in-line for proactive responses or in a monitoring mode to alert security organisations to take action. “We are delighted to announce our strategic partnership with L7 Defense and help address a critical security gap,” said Yigal Amram, Vice President of Business Development and Sales Engineering at Niagara Networks. “L7 Defense joins a growing list of partners who see the new paradigm offered by our Open Visibility Platforms, to offer customers a new advanced and flexible security posture.”

Airport environments have become more sophisticated and complex over the course of the last 20 years. What was once a simple structure to facilitate travel from point A to point B has now been transformed into a hustling and bustling setting that offers passengers the comforts and conveniences of a small city. As a result, the complexity of risks that airport operators face has grown exponentially. Security personnel must now mitigate risks like terrorism, theft, personal safety and insider threats all while streamlining operations to help preserve a positive passenger experience. Beyond the visual of long and winding security checkpoint lines, most travelers are unaware of the vast amounts of work that take place behind the scenes to ensure their safety. Increasing passenger numbers On top of the typical, day-to-day concerns security operators face, airports are only becoming busier. According to the United States Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 2018 was a record-breaking year for air passenger travel. U.S. airlines and foreign airlines operating in the United States saw 1 billion passengers fly, which was a 4.8% increase from 2017. As these numbers continue to increase, the demand on airport security personnel to keep people and property safe also increases. This is why the latest advancements in security technology are critical as part of a comprehensive and cohesive airport security strategy. Let’s take a look at some of these advancements and how they are helping airport security operators mitigate risk. U.S. airlines and foreign airlines operating in the United States saw 1 billion passengers fly, which was a 4.8% increase from 2017 Video-based command and control  Airports are operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which means it is paramount (and typically mandated) to have video as the heart of modern-day security operation centres (SOC). In today’s data-focused environment, security personnel rely on a multitude of solutions and systems, which often include video surveillance, access control, alarm notifications, and more, to ensure comprehensive protection of passengers. What’s needed is a single, unified platform with integrated event management and response The rising influx of information from these systems can often be overwhelming, and in most cases, manual processes are used to manage across these domains in an attempt to achieve a coordinated response. These manual processes are not scalable. What’s needed and is now being introduced to the market is a single, unified platform with integrated event management and response to allow security operators to maximise situational control and determine the appropriate intelligence-powered response. Real-time situation management  The combination of real-time video, with information from a variety of additional sensors, devices and applications is changing the game for airport security personnel. Now, in the event of an incident, security officials can use this data to gain enhanced situational awareness of what’s happening and deliver actionable insights to efficiently and effectively respond to the incident. Through numerous information sources and security systems, airports can benefit from a modernised and enriched investigative experience for a broad and deep understanding of routine or emergency situations.  Advanced analytics Analytics are a powerful resource that gives security teams the ability to discover significant patterns and obtain insightful knowledge from video surveillance data. Advanced algorithms can be the key in providing early warnings to assist in detecting threats, helping to establish a proactive security strategy. By effectively correlating and assessing data, airport officials can bring latent intelligence to the forefront and present a more complete view of security situations. Additionally, analytics can automate predefined standard operating procedures to help minimise human error and optimise resource utilisation.  By effectively correlating and assessing data, airport officials can bring latent intelligence to the forefront and present a more complete view of security situations Mobile reporting  The Internet of Things (IoT) and ubiquitous connectivity have brought remote capabilities to airports, where instantaneous information sharing is paramount. Mobile reporting solutions allow passengers and employees to act as additional “eyes and ears”, bringing critical safety alerts to the attention of security officials. Information shared by passengers and employees can be extremely beneficial to help shed light on a security incident and enable faster and more efficient response. Some solutions even offer the ability to share video and audio with the command centre through a passenger’s smartphone. Facial recognition technology Facial recognition can provide situational intelligence through detecting, tracking, and alerting on persons-of-interest A powerful and versatile security solution, facial recognition can provide situational intelligence to security operations centres through detecting, tracking, and alerting on persons-of-interest appearing in video streams across multiple sites and thousands of cameras simultaneously. These systems are capable of forensic-search recognition capabilities and can be compared against national, local or custom databases to make investigations faster and more efficient. Interest and adoption of the technology is growing, with new use cases being introduced daily. The solution is sure to become a valuable tool in the years to come. In short, airports are very much like small connected cities, featuring a landscape with a variety of assets, a wide range of stakeholders, and numerous sites that keep safety at the forefront of the public eye. However, while global risks and day-to-day challenges can be difficult for security operators to manage, today’s advanced and intelligent technologies can ultimately help improve the overall traveler experience. 

There’s almost no installation that goes 100-percent smoothly in the field of video surveillance. Unexpected issues routinely arise that can increase time on the job, cost of the project and frustration. Manufacturers work on the product side to help ensure their products are easy to install and – when troublesome situations do arise – are flexible enough for installers to quickly find a remedy. Importance of ease of installation Ease of installation is a very important part of the project to the system integrator because the cost of labour is variable  Ease of installation is a very important part of the project to the system integrator because the cost of labour is variable and can be very expensive. In some cases, the cost of labour to install a camera can be more than the cost of the camera! If labour costs are high – or are more expensive than a system integrator planned – they can lose a great deal of money on a project. If a cautious system integrator includes too high of an estimate for labour in a project bid, his overall bid will to high and it could cost him the project. The easier the camera is to install, the lower the labour cost, subsequently achieving higher savings for end-users. Hence it is essential that camera manufacturers develop products that are easy to install or are flexible in the field for system integrators and installers who know that time is money. Enterprise projects can involve thousands of cameras installed Simplifying installation of cameras Camera installation typically involves an electrician, the camera installer and the person who configures the VMS (Video Management Software). Of course, one person can play all three roles, and in many cases, does, but enterprise projects can involve dozens, hundreds or even thousands of cameras with teams of individuals involved in an installation. The electrician runs conduit with an electrical or PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection to the housing or the backplate of the camera; the installer then installs the camera at that location, hooking it up to power; and then a configurator adds cameras to the network and makes adjustments – renaming the camera, setting the frame rate, enabling WDR (Wide Dynamic Range), and the like. When it’s a project that involves different players for any of these functions, there is the potential for a bottleneck and delay in project completion. And if a system integrator is paying an electrician, installer and software configurator – and they are all three on site waiting for each other to finish – that’s a system integrator’s worst-case scenario. Enhancement through modular cameras Video surveillance camera manufacturers like Hanwha Techwin are producing products that take different roles Video surveillance camera manufacturers like Hanwha Techwin are producing products that take the different roles of electrician, installer and configurator into consideration, allowing them to complete their tasks independently. With a focus on modular design which includes a USB dongle, a device manager, magnetic module and included accessories, the Wisenet X series Plus is one of the fastest cameras to install, service and upgrade – saving installers time and money. Wisenet X series Plus cameras have a detachable camera module that utilise magnets to lock into the housing for instant configuration. Electricians can run conduit with a single PoE connection to the back plate/housing while the configurator is working on configuring the camera module, allowing security professionals to later snap the camera into place in just minutes. The VMS configurator can then come and add the cameras to the network and program their functionality. Modular cameras offer flexibility  In the past, an end user might determine after the camera is installed that there aren’t enough pixels on target, or they need certain different functions like video analytics for example, resulting in the time-consuming replacement of the entire camera. With modular-designed cameras, the camera module can be swapped with a new one without having to focus or replace the camera – even to change the resolution or field of view, also Wisenet X series Plus has optional PTRZ modules that can be remotely adjusted to the field of view and the position of the camera lens. Making camera adjustments in the field is also now easier and perhaps even safer. Installers have been known to climb a ladder and juggle a bulky laptop to access the network to be able to see video of how the camera is positioned. Or they’ve had to use analogue video output to view the video feed on a separate monitor which provides the field of view, but not megapixel quality. Using a smartphone, the installer can wirelessly see full and not cropped quality video directly from the camera Wisenet X series Plus cameras have a USB port that allows installers to connect it to a small dongle that converts the camera to a Wi-Fi device. Using a smartphone, the installer can wirelessly see full and not cropped quality video directly from the camera. It’s a much easier way to evaluate video while at the camera. Eliminating the second person looking at live view on a computer guiding through a cellphone to the installer to accurately point the camera to the proper position. If system integrators can do some of the legwork prior to even getting on site, it can reduce cost and improve efficiency. Imagine having 300 cameras ready to send to a project site. To configure those cameras, a system integrator has to take each camera out of the box, plug each into a switch, configure it, take it off of the switch and put it back in the box. To improve this process, camera manufacturers have now developed packaging that provides access to the camera port without even having to remove it from the box. It’s an innovative solution that saves time. Modular cameras have optional PTRZ modules that can be remotely adjusted to the field of view Software programs help in enhancing installation Whether it’s a one-man show or a team of electricians, installers and configurators, software programs can greatly enhance the installation process. Device managers are important tools in adding multiple cameras to a project. Using that 300-camera project, for example, it’s easier when a manufacturer has a device manager that allows the mass programming and configuration of cameras. Adding 300 cameras one by one is time consuming and leaves room for error when making so many multiple entries. A device manager should be able to scan the network and locate its devices, allowing them to be grouped, configured and much more. Every video surveillance camera project is going to have its ups and downs. But camera manufacturers can do their part in the production process to address the many issues known to slow down progress. It’s impressive that many are taking the lead in producing innovations like modular camera design, flexibility in the field and accessible packaging that can truly reduce installation cost and improve efficiency.

By 2020, video surveillance using fixed, body and mobile cameras is expected to capture an astounding 859 PB of video daily. Increasing retention regulations and higher resolution cameras, are forcing the video surveillance industry to reassess its approach to data storage. Large capacity primary storage tends to be expensive to procure and costly to implement – especially without a sound architecture that can balance storage performance levels with the speed of access needed to recall video footage. Active archive strategy These challenges are thrusting storage tiers to the forefront of system design. Storage tiers in video surveillance had previously meant simply using a separate archive or attaching add-on capacity directly to network video recorders. Many of the new storage options designed for video surveillance are pulling together different storage tiers into a single storage architecture Many of the new storage options designed for video surveillance are pulling together different storage tiers (and in some cases storage media) into a single storage architecture, such as an active archive solution. This balance can be achieved with an active archive strategy that automates migration of data between different storage types, to ensure the data is on the correct storage type at the correct time to meet performance and retention requirements without blowing the budget. This approach also ensures ease of access while automatically moving content from more expensive tiers of storage to more cost-effective long-term tiers of storage. This allows for greater efficiencies in how recorded footage is treated throughout its lifecycle. In some cases, it includes moving data from edge devices to centralised storage, and then to the public cloud. Scalable video storage solutions As storage demands have increased, video management vendors have turned to storage specialists for solutions that can accommodate large numbers of high-resolution video files, metadata associated with the footage for easy searching, along with much needed scalable solutions. In terms of video management software, this means the integration of video content from different storage types, tiers and physical locations is required, and which considers the performance profile of each storage type. With an active archive solution, video content is searchable and accessible directly by the end users regardless of where it is stored. Deploying an active archive solution enables surveillance users to reduce the complexity and costs of managing data for long term retention As seen in many product categories, camera and storage vendors continue to provide extremely competitive offerings. But, storage-specific solutions for video surveillance have lagged behind the roadmaps for video equipment and, as more and more cameras have entered the market, less attention has been placed on video storage capacities. Tiered storage strategy The surveillance industry has evolved considerably from the days of the 8mm video recorder; however, enterprise storage solutions will be forced to evolve further to cope with changing storage retention requirements. Video storage is quickly becoming one of the most expensive parts in a surveillance solution, but there is hope. Deploying an active archive solution will enable surveillance users to reduce the complexity and costs of managing from terabytes to petabytes of data for long term retention. By finding a storage solution that delivers the ability to implement a tiered storage strategy, users can adhere to regulation requirements to retain video footage and meet their safety and security objectives, while also significantly reducing storage costs and operational expenses.

Verkada was founded by three computer scientists and security experts who studied together at Stanford University. They connected with a former founder of Meraki and created Verkada with a mission to “modernise the world of physical security”. The fast-growing company currently focuses on delivering an all-in-one hybrid cloud video security solution powered by edge processing inside the camera. On the surface, the product is simple: cameras record video, connect to the internet, and push data to the cloud. “What sets us apart is the system architecture that drives our solution,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s VP of Product and Operations. “Starting with edge processing, all data is instantly analysed and processed at the camera. This enables enterprise users to scale coverage without traditional limitations like bandwidth consumption or the costs of supporting additional equipment for processing footage. Simultaneously, all footage is stored directly on each camera and can be streamed securely via Verkada’s centralised management platform to any device.” The product is simple: cameras record video, connect to the internet, and push data to the cloud Hybrid cloud architecture Verkada’s goal is to make it easy to buy, deploy and manage large-scale enterprise video security systems across hundreds of cameras and dozens of sites. The hybrid cloud architecture makes it easy to access video footage from hundreds of cameras across any platform (web, mobile apps, tablets, and AppleTV). Verkada is appropriate for any business, school or enterprise that needs a scalable, secure and reliable video security solution, says Davito. “Our system streamlines surveillance management, removes the need of supporting equipment, and is ready to use, out-of-the-box, without the need for technical configurations,” says Davito. The simplicity and scalability of the end-to-end solution is attractive to security professionals, simplifying the day-to-day of surveillance management and providing insights that drive a business forward in other areas of the organisation. “This approach also allows us to provide customers with a complete experience, as we build our hardware and software to work seamlessly together,” Davito adds. Verkada does not integrate with other equipment or systems. “Taking an end-to-end approach ensures that we are able to develop and roll out features more quickly and take advantage of the edge-processing capabilities of our cameras,” Davito says. The simplicity and scalability of the end-to-end solution is attractive to security professionals Defending against IoT threats An end-to-end solution also increases defenses against threats in today’s Internet of Things (IoT) space. IP cameras have historically been some of the most vulnerable devices. Verkada cameras save time by updating automatically, and they are unable to accept 3rd party software (and the risks that come with it). Verkada partners with many of the leading channel distributors and is always recruiting new integrator/reseller partners. “The solution is easy to sell. It's a bolt-on value-add that doesn't require altering or configurations to existing infrastructure,” says Davito. “Sales cycles are also much shorter because implementation is simple and streamlined; it’s creating a lot of business efficiency.” The world of physical security is always evolving, so Verkada’s ongoing challenge is to continue delivering on the potential of hybrid cloud management of physical spaces. “We are always launching new features and enhancements, as well as ensuring the security and integrity of our customers’ environments,” says Davito. “We will look to continue to push the boundaries of physical security and deepen our use of technologies like machine learning and future advancements in video analytics and AI technologies.”

Krowd is an app that connects people together based on geography; that is, if they are at the same place at the same time. Users sign into the app using the local WiFi, identify themselves by username, and are placed immediately in a group chat comprising anyone else at the location who has signed into the app. An enhancement of the Krowd app, known as Krowdsafe, leverages the technology to achieve and promote security and safety. Specifically, Krowdsafe enables users to interact directly with security personnel at a public place to report any crimes or security infractions and to enable rapid response. Think of it as “crowdsourcing” security – the app provides more eyes and ears to keep a venue safer. In effect, it enables each of its users to be an extension of the security presence at a venue or event. Krowdsafe improves crowd resilience. “Crowdsourcing” security – the app provides more eyes and ears to keep a venue safer Krowdsafe security app Krowdsafe also opens a channel of communication for the security team to provide ad-hoc security information reminders or messages. Krowdsafe can be used at a variety of venues, including stadiums, transport hubs, office blocks, retail malls, college campus and major events organisers. The app does not access identities, violate privacy, or track the movements of users. Other app users only know the information fellow users disclose. Still, group chats, one-on-one engagement, and other social media interactions can ensue, whether about a favourite football team or the excitement of a rock concert. The system fosters digital engagement that centers around a physical space. Krowdsafe applies those capabilities to promoting better security. Enhancing crowd safety and management The elements of Krowdsafe beat out 67 competitors to win the Defence & Security Accelerator Competition to Innovate Crowd Safety, launched by the UK Home office after terror events in 2017. Key areas of interest in the competition were to improve the detection of threats from explosives and weapons within a range of crowded places with high footfall and so reduce the chance of future attacks. Krowdsafe provides a prioritised, readily accessible and simple way for members of a crowd to communicate with a security team charged with keeping them safe. The £250,000 government award has helped the product move forward commercially at a faster pace. Krowdsafe app does not access identities, violate privacy, or track the movements of users Krowdsafe users can tap a red button, prominent on the Krowd app, that says “Report.” They may then choose from a listing of common threat types – from suspicious activity or unattended activity to medical emergency or fire services. The list is configurable by venue and corresponds to any specific threat models. The list corresponds to the nature of any situation security wants to address, such as “anti-social behavior” at a football club. Users in the crowd can anonymously report racist chanting, for example. In a children’s sporting event, the app can be used to facilitate lost-and-found children. If a child gets lost, a user can share a photo with the security team, who can alert the “public” (other Krowdsafe users) and find the child within minutes or seconds. Encrypted identifier code A user taps the “Report” button, selects an issue, and an alert goes directly to the security team A user taps the “Report” button, selects an issue, and an alert goes directly to the security team, who can respond because they have the encrypted identifier code from which the message came. For that point, the security team communicates one-on-one with the user, who can then choose to share their current location with the security team to facilitate response. (The “legitimate interest” of knowing the location negates any privacy concerns.) Once location is enabled, the security team can follow the precise positioning of threats on a map, using GPS and other technologies, or even on a three-dimensional digital map of a multi-story building. Another security benefit of Krowdsafe is prevention. Event organisers and venue managers can promote the use of Krowdsafe on posters or in announcements throughout the venue. Additional eyes and ears are the equivalent of CCTV coverage on every inch of a venue and use of the system makes the environment more hostile to mischievous, malicious and/or terrorist activity. In effect, bad guys will go somewhere else. Enhancement to Krowd app Krowdsafe is an enhancement to the Krowd app, which has been around for a couple of years and is available in app stores for iOS and Android. The app approximates in the digital world the experience of being a stranger in the crowd in the real world. Users can join a conversation based on their username, and then disclose to the crowd whatever they wish (or not). Event managers/organisers can promote hashtags to help identify others in the crowd (such as #ManUnited to identify fans of the same football team). In general, users can identify themselves (voluntarily) according to common interests using hashtags.  “Krowd is a group chat that connects people together at the same place at the same time in a group, but without anyone having to disclose personal information,” says Geoff Revill, Managing Director, Krowdthink Ltd. “You have a digital presence in the same place with other people at the same time.” Wireless connectivity Users connect initially into the system through WiFi, access to which serves to approximate presence at a venue Users connect initially into the system through WiFi, access to which serves to approximate presence at a venue. Once someone signs in, information about them is merely a grouping of “hash” numbers, which are used to identify them as they communicate with others in the location. However, the “hashing” cannot be hacked to find a user’s location, thus ensuring greater privacy. Because Krowd does not collect personal data (which is a revenue source for most social media companies), the company generates revenue by providing the service to venue owners who wish to interact with and manage a crowd. Data security Location data is considered sensitive under General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and tracking locations can help to identify where someone lives, works, who they associate with, etc. By not tracking location, Krowd avoids the related privacy issues. After initially signing in on WiFi, Krowd communications can also use 2G, 3G and other cellular networks in addition to WiFi. Addressing privacy concerns is essential to encouraging involvement in the Krowd app, and in Krowdsafe. “If you want people to participate in keeping the crowd safe, you have to get their trust and respect them, that’s a building block behind the behavioral science,” says Revill. By not tracking location, Krowd avoids the related privacy issues Privacy protection Because Krowd users remain anonymous (except for the information they choose to share), user data is not collected (and/or sold or used for future marketing purposes). Krowd’s paying customers are event venues and public places that provide the Krowd service and can promote their commercial messages or provide other information to their populations while on site. Krowdsafe can provide immediate security benefits to a venue. Even if only 25 staff members use the app in a given location, for example, that’s 25 more sets of eyes and ears to help the security department. In a retail mall, if the staffs of 200 tenant businesses use the app, that’s another 500 or so people watching out for security. Among the general public, use of the app can be promoted in customer newsletters, or by posting group discussions on big screens around a venue. Wide marketing scope It enables members of a crowd to report any broken doors, water leaks or blocked toilets Security is a secondary benefit for some Krowd users, who are drawn to the app because of marketing opportunities, such as the ability to provide discounts or promotional offers to customers while they are on site. The app also encourages social media interaction, while maintaining the venue’s ability to “manage” the crowd by moderating any discussions. The Krowd app also provides management benefits to a venue. For example, it enables members of a crowd to report any broken doors, water leaks or blocked toilets. In general, the app helps to promote a better brand experience for the customer. Incident management One of the UK government’s concerns about Krowdsafe was its possible use by terrorists or other to cause incidents in a public venue. Think of the case of Olly Murs, a U.K. singer, whose mistaken tweets about hearing gunshots caused a brief panic at a department store on a busy shopping day. Might Krowd be uses similarly by a terrorist or other evil-doer to cause chaos or a distraction? No, says Revill, who points to a higher level of control over content exchanged in Krowd versus Twitter, for example. The security team can censor content or limit its propagation. They can also disable or block a user from communicating on the app. Messages containing dangerous or troubling content, such as racist terms, can trigger alerts to enable security teams to respond quickly.

Whether it is video analytic platforms to monitor traffic patterns or cameras deployed to help law enforcement ensure public safety, many cities are looking at advancements in video technology. Upgrade costs and technology compatibility issues are often front-and-centre when it comes to blending new technology with existing infrastructure. For example, if the city law enforcement officials want to improve video camera image quality, which can improve the evidentiary value of footage in prosecutions, they may look at newer HD or IP-based video systems. Upgrading to a hybrid DVR system Applications include perimeter monitoring, public parking, city transportation, square/town safety To stretch a tight budget, a migration plan to an IP-based camera system could be phased in over time by centering the upgrade on a new hybrid DVR system. This way, both existing analogue and newer IP-based cameras can be hooked into the system. For example, Hikvision’s Smart City Solutions include systems for government services, transportation and traffic management, or any combinations of these. Applications include perimeter monitoring, public parking, city transportation, square/town safety and temporary surveillance. Data capture form to appear here! Heart of City strategy Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, has introduced its ‘Heart of City (HOC)’ strategy, which is in line with the top-level design experience from hundreds of city projects. The strategy is based on the maturity of five technologies – artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing, IoT and 5G. The combination will enable the evolution of smart city 3.0 and bring great changes to our life, according to Dahua. A 300-plus camera city centre video surveillance scheme in the UK city of Lincoln has been installed and commissioned using Dahua's cameras, monitors and switching equipment A 300-plus camera city centre video surveillance scheme in the UK city of Lincoln has been installed and commissioned using cameras, monitors and switching equipment from Dahua Technology. The design of the new all-wireless encrypted system was based around delivering flexible technology, reducing the total cost of ownership, ease of installation, lower maintenance requirements, smart edge analytics and remote connectivity. Future-proof radio network design Environmentally friendly aspects of the project included specifying lower-energy equipment, integrating remote support and recycling hardware wherever possible. The council employed independent consultants Lever Technology Group to help them ensure they had a robust and future-proof radio network design. The installation of the new IP full HD system and network is part of Lincoln’s smart city strategy – Vision 2020 – which seeks to drive innovation in the city and harness new technologies to improve the lives of citizens. One of the results is the provision of free Wi-Fi in the city, working alongside the Dahua cameras using the same IP wireless network. Wearables for city surveillance Wearables are another new aspect of city surveillance system. For example, FLIR Systems, Inc. has announced FLIR TruWITNESS, a wearable sensor platform designed for city-level security and public safety operations. TruWITNESS combines video, audio, location data, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and cloud and management software in one solution, allowing organisations to reach a new level of situational awareness. TruWITNESS is worn on an individual’s body or mounted inside vehicles and is designed for any public safety organisation that requires on-scene, real-time mobile surveillance TruWITNESS is designed for any public safety organisation that requires on-scene, real-time mobile surveillance. Worn on an individual’s body or mounted inside vehicles, TruWITNESS includes visible-video, audio, global navigation satellite system (GNSS), gyroscope, accelerometer and magnetometer sensors. These sensors combine to send alerts and stream data to a central command centre in real-time to ensure full situational awareness and global event handling. Featuring FLIR Neighbor Aware inter-device connectivity, TruWITNESS acts as an IoT device, triggering nearby TruWITNESS devices, fixed and motorised Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) security cameras, and other connected sensors to act upon an alarm event. TruWITNESS becomes a key component of FLIR Systems’ Video Management System, United VMS, which command centres use to manage video surveillance. United VMS combines video, audio, and other related data and makes it available for real-time situation management and forensic purposes. Video analytics for crowd monitoring Crowd monitoring video analytics solutions monitor vast areas instantly alerting police of any overcrowding areasCrowd monitoring video analytics solutions continuously monitor vast areas instantly alerting police of any overcrowding areas. Qognify’s crowd monitoring video analytics solution was successfully used during the Maratha Morcha in the city of Kolhapur, India, on October 15th, 2016. The system monitored approximately one million protestors through 165 cameras installed across city. Smart threshold alerts were streamed directly into the control room while the crowd was building up, so that action could be taken before the crowd density reached dangerous levels, alleviating crowd safety and stability. At the core of the solution is Situator, Qognify’s advanced PSIM/Situation Management solution, which manages a myriad of security systems and sensors, including Qognify’s video management solution, from a newly built state-of-the-art Command and Control Center. Security operators and officials have advanced situational awareness of what is happening in their city and where. Automated, pre-defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were designed, in the local language Marathi, for handling routine security incidents as well as disaster management, ensuring that the most effective response is initiated, and procedures are executed in a consistent manner. Maintaining law, order and safety Qognify also implemented its Safe City solution in Navi Mumbai, a planned township that was established to handle the population overflow from the overcrowded and ever-growing city of Mumbai, India. Together with CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation, the agency established for managing the new city) and system integrator WIPRO, Qognify designed an integrated and holistic solution that helps Navi police to maintain law, order and safety.  Qognify’s Video Management Solution controls hundreds of surveillance cameras As a planned township, Navi Mumbai officials have the benefit of operating in a modern environment, allowing them to maximise Qognify’s Safe City solution. The Qognify Situator is an advanced Situation Management platform, and Qognify’s Video Management Solution controls the hundreds of surveillance cameras throughout the city. Role of standards in smart cities “Standards can assist in successfully deploying a comprehensive [safe cities] system with multiple technologies into a single, cohesive entity,” said Per Björkdahl, Chair of the ONVIF Steering Committee. “With the ability to integrate various sensors and data from many different devices synthesised through one interface, government officials and law enforcement are afforded a more complete picture of their city’s security.” Deployment of facial recognition technology Live video streaming within the smart and safe city’s infrastructure means video’s capabilities can go beyond simple evidence recording and evolve into a tool that allows operations teams to monitor and remediate against incidents as they are happening. Facial recognition technology can be added on to any video surveillance camera that is recording at a high quality This can be taken one step further with the deployment of facial recognition via live streaming video. Facial recognition technology can be added on to any video surveillance camera that is recording at a high enough quality to identify faces. The technology works by capturing video, streaming the live video back to a control centre and matching faces against any watch lists that the control centre owns. Importantly, the data of people who aren’t on watch lists is not stored by the technology. This technology can work to make the city safer in a number of ways. For example, facial recognition could spot a known drug dealer in a city centre where they weren’t supposed to be, or facial recognition could identify if a group of known terror suspects were visiting the same location at the same time, and this would send an alert to the police.

The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) is a Social Health Insurance Scheme established by CAP 395 with the main objective of ensuring accessibility of health care services to all Tanzanians. The Fund has managed to expand its coverage to include councils, private companies, religious and educational institutions, private individuals, children under 18 (TOTO Afya) as well as mutual groups, whereby all members can equally access health services in all accredited health facilities. The Fund is also administering the Bunge Health Insurance Scheme, on behalf of the National Assembly. NHIF is a prestigious public institution that serves people all over Dar es Salaam and Tanzania. It has multiple sites spread over these regions. Their current surveillance platform had a few limitations of integrating third-party cameras and was not facilitating centralised monitoring for multiple locations. Matrix Sataya Samas is designed to meet diverse needs of large enterprises connected to a central location or a single site This posed a problem in managing and monitoring all sites from a single location. For this, they needed a surveillance platform that could easily integrate with multi-brand cameras as well as facilitate multi-location monitoring. Moreover, they needed a system with monitoring capacity of over 500 cameras with the facility of remote management for real-time security. Specifically designed solutions To the above challenges, Matrix Offered Sataya Samas Video Management System. It is a Video Surveillance management solution specifically designed to meet the diverse and complex needs of large enterprises having multiple sites connected to a central location or a large, single site. The system was able to integrate with 56 AXIS cameras available at its Head Quarters and other 16 cameras available at its district branch offices. All the cameras were managed at a single central server located at the NHIF HQ office. Matrix VMS provided real-time security with Intelligent Video Analytics such as Motion Detection, Intrusion Detection, Trip Wire etc. Additionally, VMS enabled monitoring and managing video surveillance from mobile phones and tablets remotely by using Matrix Mobile Application: SATATYA VISION. These features made monitoring much more reliable and easier for them. Project highlights : VMS Simultaneous User Licence - 3 Qty Mobile App (SATATYA VISION) Intelligent Video Analytics Benefits : Retention of existing Security infrastructure Reduces storage consumption with cost-saving features Centralised monitoring and management Real-time security

Located in the city centre of New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, Chaffers Marina is home to some of the country’s most exclusive multi-million-dollar vessels and receives visitors from around the world. With 185 berths across 5 piers, Chaffers Marina’s location amidst public areas presents unique security risks and facilities management challenges. In 2011, Chaffers Marina began working with Gallagher and today utilises some of the latest Bluetooth and mobile technology to deliver effortless site and facilities access for staff and marina users. Risk management & accountability With a location in the central business district of Wellington, Chaffers Marina sits amidst public areas including a city park. Historically, when the park hosted events and festivals, members of the public would unlawfully access the marina piers and climb aboard vessels. It was these incidents that initially prompted Chaffers Marina to review their current systems and find new site management and CCTV solutions. To mitigate the risks posed by unauthorised site access, Chaffer’s Marina installed cameras across the site To mitigate the risks posed by unauthorised site access, Chaffer’s Marina installed cameras across the site and introduced alarmed and monitored gates on each pier with Gallagher access control readers. In addition to preventing unauthorised access by the general public, the access control solution provides a reliable method for the Marina to manage and report on the activity of contractors on site. “It’s absolutely vital that we not only manage who gets on and off of the piers, but that we have also have a thorough audit trail supported by video footage.” says Ken Burt, Marina Manager at Chaffer’s Marina. Bluetooth T15 readers Chaffer’s Marina is utilising Gallagher’s Bluetooth T15 Readers across the site and is experiencing a significant increase in efficiency as a result. “Staff and contractors moving around the site with equipment or pushing trolleys, don’t have to stop to dig out a key or card to unlock the gate” says Ken. “Instead, the Bluetooth reader communicates with the mobile phone in our pocket and unlocks it automatically, it just makes life so much easier.” Likewise, marina users are able to move effortlessly around the site, accessing the piers, office, and the comprehensive amenities building, all via the Bluetooth connection on their mobile device. Gallagher’s mobile technology is having a considerable impact on the administrative side of the business too. To date, visiting vessels taking temporary berths would need to be met by a member of the Chaffers Marina team, in order to hand over an access card to provide pier and facility access. Mobile Connect App Through Gallagher’s Mobile Connect App, Chaffer’s administrative staff can now issue an access credential directly to a visitor’s mobile device before they’ve even arrived at the marina. “We’re very excited about this technology” said Ken, “aside from how simple and impressive it is for our visitors, the impact on our administration - particularly having to retrieve or replace unreturned visitor’s cards - is huge.” Gallagher’s Command Centre Mobile App makes life even easier for marina manager Ken, by enabling him to manage alarms, user access, and gate status, remotely via a mobile device. “I primarily use Command Centre Mobile on my iPad after hours” said Ken. “When someone calls me after hours about an access issue, I can now manage it from home on my tablet, that’s incredibly efficient for us and delivers a huge saving on call outs.” Harsh environmental conditions Gallagher’s T15 readers are the ideal choice for outdoor application Chaffer’s Marina faces harsh environmental conditions that put any external hardware to the test. Gallagher’s T15 readers are the ideal choice for outdoor application and were designed specifically to meet the needs of all-weather environments. “We’d had problems with previous hardware becoming damaged by water, wind, and salt.” said Ken. “Gallagher’s T15 readers were developed in direct consultation with us and other sites that have difficult conditions. The team at Gallagher really do listen to what we say and incorporate it in their design, and because of that, I have every confidence in the products Gallagher makes.” says Ken. Forward thinking To further enhance operational efficiency across their site, Chaffers Marina is currently looking to leverage Gallagher’s mobile and Bluetooth technology to automate and simplify members’ access to power facilities. According to Ken “Gallagher’s technology presents some opportunities for us to be really innovative in how we deliver and record access to different facilities on our site, we’re exploring those ideas as we speak.”

A Wisenet video surveillance system manufactured by Hanwha Techwin is being used to its full potential by the operators of the Audley End Miniature Railway in order to ensure that the 100,000 plus people who visit the Railway every year are able to safely enjoy all its facilities. Located close to Audley End House in Saffron Walden, Essex, the Miniature Railway, was built in 1964 by the then Lord Braybrooke as a hobby. It has since become a major tourist attraction with train enthusiasts able to enjoy steam and diesel train rides through the beautiful Audley End Estate Woodland designed by Capability Brown, whilst young visitors can venture through a ‘Fairy and Elf’ walk. IP Network Solution IP network-based Wisenet system is being used to keep a close eye on the trains moving around the 2.4 km track Originally installed as a replacement for an old analogue CCTV system following a number of security incidents, the new IP network-based Wisenet system is now also being used to keep a close eye on the trains moving around the 2.4 kilometer track and visitor car parking areas. In addition, it is also helping with the management of the queues of people waiting to buy tickets and to ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations. The video surveillance system, comprising 14 Wisenet cameras and a Network Video Recorder (NVR), has been installed by IT infrastructure specialists, Eastern Voice and Data, who also designed and installed the Miniature Railway’s network and Wi-Fi. Wisenet cameras and NVR “We have previously installed Wisenet cameras for other clients and have been impressed with their robustness and reliability, as well as the quality of the captured images,” said Russell Marriott, Director of Norwich-based Eastern Voice and Data. “As a result, we were able to confidently recommend to Audley End Miniature Railway that all cameras should be selected from the Wisenet camera range. We then worked closely with the Hanwha Techwin pre-sales team to select the most appropriate camera model for each location.” Wisenet Q Series cameras Among the 14 cameras installed are 5 QNO-7030R Bullet and 6 QND-7010R Dome cameras Among the 14 cameras installed are 5 QNO-7030R Bullet and 6 QND-7010R Dome cameras. These are all able to capture 4megapixel high definition images of objects regardless of the lighting conditions, with the help of built-in IR illumination. Part of the Wisenet Q camera series, the cameras also feature defocus, motion and tamper detection, hallway view and lens distortion correction, whilst support for Power over Ethernet (PoE) has negated the need for Eastern Voice and Data to have to provide separate power supplies and cabling to each camera location. Images captured from all the cameras are recorded and stored on a 16 channel Wisenet XRN-1610S NVR, which is equipped with a PoE switch. Wisenet Mobile App “Our old CCTV was well passed its ‘use-by’ date and lacked the functionality required to help us maintain a safe environment for our visitors and staff, as well as deter would be intruders and vandals,” said Bob Ottaway, General Manager of the Audley End Miniature Railway. “We are now able to closely monitor all activity throughout the site during opening hours, and with the help of the Wisenet Mobile App, we can also be remotely alerted via smartphones and tablets to any suspicious activity when we are closed.”

Neath Port Talbot residents have been given a road safety boost in the form of a new Mobile Enforcement Vehicle (MEV). It has been supplied by Videalert, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of intelligent traffic enforcement, video surveillance and management solutions, which was awarded the contract after due procurement process. Mobile enforcement vehicle “Indiscriminate and dangerous parking around Neath Port Talbot will no longer be tolerated,” said Councillor Rob Jones, Leader of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council. “The newly purchased mobile enforcement vehicle seeks to challenge those drivers who choose to park on school keep clear markings, within clearly defined bus stops and on pedestrian crossings with no thought for the safety of others. It is hoped that this MEV vehicle will help to further ensure greater safety and protection for pedestrians and other road users as we progress through 2019.” It is hoped that this MEV vehicle will help to further ensure greater safety and protection for pedestrians" As part of an ongoing campaign, the council’s road safety team carried out a county-wide School Gate Parking campaign in partnership with South Wales Police and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. This included banners to be displayed outside all schools to raise awareness as well as delivering education to all pupils - encouraging them to be a positive influence on their guardians taking them to and from school. However, it was determined that enforcement for persistent drivers was the most effective way to tackle this growing road safety menace. ANPR and Digital Video Platform The Mobile Enforcement Vehicle (MEV) comes equipped with two roof-mounted high-tech ANPR cameras and two colour cameras to capture contextual video evidence of vehicles whose drivers have chosen to contravene traffic orders across the County’s territories. The on-board systems are controlled by one of the Council’s Civil Enforcement Officers using a dashboard-mounted touchscreen. All contravention evidence data is transferred to Videalert’s Digital Video Platform in the parking office at the end of each shift. The Videalert system automates the construction of video evidence packs which are reviewed by trained council operatives prior to sending confirmed offences to the back-office processing system for the issuance of penalty charge notices to the registered keepers of vehicles. Road and residential safety The winning entry of ‘iPatrol’ was submitted by a pupil at Gnoll Primary School In order to promote the safety messages to younger residents, the Council’s Road Safety Team also engaged with all Primary School pupils in a competition to name the vehicle. The winning entry of ‘iPatrol’ was submitted by a pupil at Gnoll Primary School who was presented with a Chromebook, sponsored by Videalert, by Neath Port Talbot Council Mayor Cllr Dennis Keogh at the Mayor’s Parlour in Port Talbot on Thursday, January 24th. According to Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director at Videalert: “This new generation of multi-purpose mobile enforcement vehicles (MEVs) gives Councils greater flexibility in the way that they can deal with a wide range of moving traffic and parking contraventions.”

This year’s Super Bowl LIII American football game to determine the champions of the National Football League (NFL), has been protected by 360 Vision Technology’s ruggedised-Hybrid Invictus PTZ camera. The cameras were deployed as part of Security Centres International’s high-performance Mobile Advanced Safety Tower (MAST) rapid deployment camera solution. In all, 10 rapid deployment MAST units were deployed in various areas surrounding the brand new, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena in Atlanta Georgia. With over 1 million fans expected to participate in Super Bowl and the 10-day fan festival, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), was keen to complement the existing CCTV networks around the grounds and mass transit point footfall areas, such as bus and rail stations. HD surveillance imaging MAST is the only product of its kind that would readily integrate into the existing CCTV infrastructure" Stuart Bostock, Executive Group President at Security Centres International explains why the 360 Vision Invictus camera based MAST system was chosen by MARTA: “Featuring world-class HD surveillance imaging, leading-edge design, robustness, zero infrastructure requirements and seamless Video Management System (VMS) integration, MAST is the only product of its kind that would readily integrate into the existing CCTV infrastructure. Additionally, MAST benefits from a significantly smaller footprint than similar trailer based stand-alone surveillance systems.” “MAST has been developed to answer the need for a more sophisticated and flexible surveillance system for infrastructure and public space safety, including large crowd gatherings, as in this application. MAST is unique, as it combines a rapidly deployable unit with some of the most advanced safety and surveillance technology available – the very reason why we selected 360 Vision Technology’s Invictus camera for its core imaging technology.” Full 1080P HD PTZ camera Invictus’ low-power consumption greatly assists the longevity of critical battery power when deployed in the field" Mark Rees Managing Director of 360 Vision Technology added: “360 Vision Technology’s Invictus is a high-performance, ruggedized all-in-one PTZ camera with full 1080P HD and ultra low-light camera technology - making it the perfect choice for off-grid temporary/rapid deployment mobile surveillance rigs, such as MAST. Additionally, Invictus’ low-power consumption greatly assists the longevity of critical battery power when deployed in the field – extending MAST’s operational performance for deployment in more remote applications.” “The Invictus camera’s unparalleled mix of competitive cost and advanced Predator low-light camera imaging technology makes it the perfect imaging component for the innovative MAST system.” MAST units at Super Bowl LIII The use of the MAST units integrated to the existing fixed camera points during Super Bowl LIII week proved a huge success with high-definition images transmitted back to the MARTA Emergency Operations Centre via a mobile network. System operators were able to identify and tackle a number of incidents Thanks to the high quality of images received, system operators were able to identify and tackle a number of incidents, including a vehicle theft. Additionally, the images were also used to predict areas of dense footfall, tackle crowd control safety issues, and manage general health and safety concerns. The deployment of the Invictus based camera system at Super Bowl LIII proved such a success that plans are already in place for deployment at other large-scale US sporting events, including the NCAA Final Four Basketball Championship in 2020 and for city centre deployment across Atlanta.

As increasing digital engagement powers forward in the hospitality industry, SALTO Systems has joined forces with the KeezApp technology platform to offer hotels an unrivalled guest experience. Property management systems The KeezApp platform provides a range of solutions for any property that hosts guests and is able to integrate with most PMS (Property Management Systems) on the market. Guests can check in from anywhere, receiving a virtual key straight to their smart phone and getting an alert when their room is ready for occupation. The front desk is then alerted when the guest has used the mobile key to enter their room even for doors equipped with offline electronic locks. The virtual app provides for access to all permitted areas of the hotel during their stay and when the time comes to check out, guests can again use KeezApp removing the need to queue at reception. KeezApp – SALTO software integration KeezApp has implemented JustIN Mobile key access technology and interfaced it with SALTO front desk management software ProAccess SPACE Additional tools include live chat with the front desk. This provides a better, more efficient way for guests to talk and interact with the front desk whether they are in the hotel or out and about. Guests can also choose different departments to contact such as reception, concierge, housekeeping or room service depending on their needs. KeezApp has implemented JustIN Mobile key access technology and interfaced it with SALTO front desk management software ProAccess SPACE. SALTO Hospitality add-ons include functionalities such as mobile keys (BLE), group check-in; real-time re-rooming and real-time extended stay. These plus other key hotel features make it easy to control all the offline and online rooms and back-of-house doors from different front desk guest workstations. SALTO electronic locks Both companies are driven by the opportunity for hotels to provide a superior guest experience to their clients, whether by offering mobile functionalities or superior management standards like quick check-in and check-out, online billing, live chat with reception, housekeeping and concierge or auto Wi-Fi connection for guests. SALTO welcomes new partnerships with industry leaders like KeezApp that will result in improved hospitality management and the guest experience. SALTO also continuously adds integrations with other technology providers so that those in the hospitality industry have a choice when it comes to which platform, they use to control SALTO’s robust line of electronic locks and supporting products.

An aging employee population and the influx of a new generation of workers and customers is driving change in the physical security industry. Millennials – those born in the 1980s and mid-1990s – are especially impacting how the industry operates, the technologies it produces, and the customers it serves. This tech-savvy generation grew up with the Internet at their fingertips. They embrace innovation in all its glory and expect it to play a seamless role in their lives – and work. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How are millennials changing how security systems are designed, installed and/or operated?

The reviews are in, and ISC West was another hit. Brisk attendance and a comprehensive lineup of the industry’s top companies and products contributed to another successful show for Reed Exhibitions. Our Expert Panel Roundtable, who have attended many such events, added their own reflections to the industry’s post-ISC glow. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How successful was ISC West 2018 for security industry exhibitors and visitors?

Body-worn cameras are becoming more common every day, driven both by needs of the marketplace and technology developments. However, questions remain about the usefulness of the devices, and their future role in promoting safety and security. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the challenges of body-worn cameras for the security industry?