Mobile surveillance

Dahua Technology, global video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, has unveiled its H.265 Mobile Video Recorder series. Specific products that were launched include the Dahua MXVR1004, MXVR4104, MNVR4104, and MNVR4208. Upgraded in performance while retaining the same price, all the new Dahua Mobile Video Recorder products adopt H.265 technology, offering a cost-efficient choice for mobile solution. H.265 Mobile Video Recorder Series Featuring cutting-edge H.265 video compression, the new generation of Dahua Mobile Video Recorders can store twice as much video as before with the same HDD capacity. That is, storing the same amount of video now requires only half of the HDD capacity, thus saving money for users. At the same time, choosing wireless network monitoring enables 3G\4G traffic to be reduced by half, which can also lower the cost. This series’ enhanced performance delivers more competitive advantages for customers, especially well-suited to meet the needs of corporate or institutional clients such as transportation service providers, namely taxi companies, buses, railway bureaus, and many more. Real-time HD video monitoring Offering real-time HD monitoring, all the Dahua Mobile Video Recorders support 4MP IP Cameras Offering real-time HD monitoring, all the Dahua Mobile Video Recorders support 4MP IP Cameras whereas the MNVR series can support up to 4K cameras. With embedded GPS module, the recorders allow for real-time vehicle location tracking and monitoring, which will enable the police to quickly and accurately identify suspects in the case of a public safety incident. Meanwhile, the devices can be set to upload all the information (video/audio/alarm/GPS) to VMS platform via wireless network: 3G/4G/WiFi. Users can also set the devices so that even under offline condition, the GPS information will be saved automatically and continuously uploading from the breakpoint when connected to the network again. AI-powered face detection technology Moreover, all the Dahua MXVR series are equipped with AI-empowered face detection, catering for a wide range of applications. For instance, identifying suspects on public bus or taxi, assisting in obtaining attendance information of students on school bus, etc. Apart from the above, the products of H.265 mobile video recorders unveiled this time share even more fascinating functions including anti-vibration, multiple ports for various applications and accessories connections, as well as wide range of power supply to suit various vehicles. In addition, most products in the series are certified with EN50155/ISO16750, while having a good resistance to hot or cold temperature while operating. With all the features combined, it becomes an undoubtedly a star series in the market. Mobile video surveillance Dahua ADAS and DSM products will integrate a variety of intelligent warning functions to predict the potential risks Vehicles, ships, airplanes — all forms of transportation these days require modern video surveillance to ensure people’s safety. In particular, terrorism and other public security issues have become the top global concern and are challenging the surveillance industry. The advent of Dahua Mobile Video Record H.265 series has capitalised on the growing demand for mobile surveillance solutions spurred by the needs for robust public security worldwide. Aiming to give early warnings and prevent ahead - a trend of the security industry, the upcoming Dahua ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistant System) and DSM (Driving Monitor System) products will integrate a variety of intelligent warning functions to predict the potential risks. With a mission of ‘Enabling a Safer Society and Smarter Life’, Dahua Technology will continue investing in ‘Innovation, Quality, and Service’, to serve its partners and customers from around the world.

On a mission to create safer communities, companies, and environments, Vintra uses artificial intelligence to augment the established surveillance systems deployed to protect the spaces where people work, learn, and travel. Vintra works with private companies, higher education, and law enforcement to transform visual data from any camera – including, remarkably, mobile sources like drones and dash cams – into actionable, tailored and trusted intelligence with proprietary deep learning algorithms. Backed by investors including Bonfire Ventures, Vertex Ventures and London Venture Partners, Vintra has raised $4.8 million to date. Deep learning systemVintra’s team of deep learning experts build their own algorithms from the ground up Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur Brent Boekestein and leading computer vision experts, Dr. Ariel Amato and Dr. Angel Sappa, Vintra saw a critical need developing with the rise of security systems and proliferation of cameras, including mobile surveillance cameras that are burgeoning in use. As the use of surveillance and security cameras grows, the amount of data collected per year requires billions of hours of manual interpretation if done by human operators. With Vintra’s unique platform, this overwhelming amount of video data can be organised, analysed and monitored through a purpose-built deep learning system. Vintra’s team of deep learning experts build their own algorithms from the ground up and GPU-optimise their models to take advantage of the latest hardware and acceleration techniques. These models can be deployed now to augment the majority of safety and security scenarios, with future plans to empower customers to create their own analytics in order to be responsive to the specific needs of each installation environment.  AI-powered video analytics solution FulcrumAI can be used in the cloud, as a powerful post-event investigation solutionVintra has created FulcrumAI, an AI-powered video analytics solution capable of continued evolution and improvement over time that works on video data from any source that can be leveraged in two ways: as a tool to more accurately monitor live video feeds and produce actionable alerts, and as a tool to analyse footage in post-event investigative scenarios. The flexible system can be deployed in two ways to provide different benefits depending on the needs of the installation environment: FulcrumAI can be used ‘on-premises’ at an organisation’s location, to augment human resources by transforming overwhelming numbers of live video feeds into preventative alerts, timely situational awareness, and instantly searchable video forensic data. FulcrumAI can be used in the cloud, as a powerful post-event investigation solution that enables fast, accurate, and advanced video forensics at industry leading speeds. Structuring unstructured video Today, Vintra structures previously unstructured video from live cameras and recorded clips to make that data monitorable and searchable with industry leading accuracy, speed, and cost in a way previously unobtainable by human operators. Additionally, Vintra strives to ensure their algorithms are ethically-developed in regard to data bias via continuous internal review to identify and correct issues prior to production. Vintra makes it easy for customers to test its solutions and review performance data on publicly available datasets" Vintra is committed to building solutions capable of reducing the unintended bias that can affect AI-powered security systems, and to creating safe spaces for everyone while respecting individual privacy concerns. Computer vision for video analytics “Every year, billions of dollars in time and resources are spent on security personnel to monitor live streams as well as post-event investigations by law enforcement and analysts. Vintra exists because we knew we could use computer vision and deep learning to build a new way forward for video analytics that took mobility and customisation into account,” said Brent Boekestein, CEO of Vintra. “One of the most important parts about building AI solutions is ensuring that customers, the public, and communities can trust the solutions being deployed. To that end, Vintra makes it easy for customers to test its solutions and review performance data on publicly available datasets.”

Altek Corp., global digital imaging company based in Taiwan, is introducing three new technologies: Vision AI chips, AI commercial surveillance cameras, and 3D depth image sensing modules with the theme of ‘Bringing Vision AI to The Edge’. The company’s vision AI chip and AI commercial surveillance cameras enable high-resolution smart surveillance by supporting AI human/object detection, event detection and behavior recognition. The entire AI process is conducted in the camera and corresponding alerts are sent out according to the detection results. It reduces the network bandwidth for data transmission to the cloud and improves the AI detection speed. This technology can be utilised in multiple use cases, including in retail, restaurants and hospitals. Altek also has collaborated with global tech leaders in providing commercial/home use surveillance system with edge vision AI capability" “Being dedicated to more than 20 years in digital imaging, Altek believes that edge vision AI will unleash remarkable market demands.” Alex Hsia, Chairman of Altek Corporation said. “Recently, Altek also has collaborated with global tech leaders in providing commercial/home use surveillance system with edge vision AI capability, aiming to bring the surveillance environment in retail, manufacturing, factory and home to new level of experience.” Altek – CyberLink software integration In partnership with CyberLink Corp. (5203.TW), Altek’s 3D sensing solution has been integrated with CyberLink’s AI facial recognition engine FaceMe. The new integration strives to enhance the anti-spoofing capabilities of smart security systems, enabling them to accurately detect facial images and videos apart from live human faces. “Anti-spoofing is vital for smart security and other AIoT applications. CyberLink’s FaceMe engine is capable of accurate anti-spoofing by utilising an array of inputs including 2D & 3D cameras, human head motions, voice, and mainstream 3D imaging technologies including Altek’s active stereo technology. This allows FaceMe to achieve highly accurate human face pairing with faultless anti-spoofing results,” said Dr. Jau Huang, CEO of CyberLink. “Through our collaboration with Altek Corp., we hope to implement FaceMe’s high-accuracy facial recognition technology into 3D camera solutions to deliver safer and more reliable facial recognition capabilities to hardware manufacturers of mobile phones, door access control systems, and a number of other applications.” Edge Vision AI technology With Microsoft and Qualcomm, Altek also co-developed a Visions AI Developer Kit Altek has also co-developed products with other global tech leaders to demonstrate its commitment to commercialising edge vision AI technology. With Qualcomm, the company has co-developed a commercial AI surveillance IP camera. This camera is powered by QCS603 platform with distributed edge AI computing power to enable AI detection of humans and objects within the recognition area in the camera. It also supports Amazon KVS so that users can leverage the AWS cloud platform to access, process and store streaming video with ease for further analysis by deep learning.  Visions AI Developer Kit With Microsoft and Qualcomm, Altek also co-developed a Visions AI Developer Kit. By supporting Microsoft Azure IoT Edge and using Qualcomm AI Engine, it strengthens Azure’s deep learning service and delivers ultra-high resolution video quality, creating optimal capability for processing vision AI at the edge for various markets and applications. Having established itself in the market of edge vision AI, Altek has integrated its software/hardware systems, chips and algorithms, and continues to collaborate with leading technology providers to leverage technological advantages and industry experiences to expand sales channels and provide omnidirectional services in the field of edge vision AI.

Eagle Eye Networks, global cloud video surveillance solutions provider, has announced the expansion of the Eagle Eye Cloud Video Application Programming Interface (API) Developer Program. Eagle Eye Cloud Video API Developer Program participants receive an Eagle Eye Video API account, along with discounted equipment to connect compatible security cameras to the Eagle Eye Cloud Video Surveillance platform. Additionally, they receive access to sample code, training, phone support and assistance with system design. Eagle Eye Video API The Eagle Eye Video API provides a set of tools to quickly build or integrate applications with both live and recorded video from surveillance cameras. The applications can range from very simple to highly complex. Eagle Eye Networks does the heavy lifting of capturing, storing, and indexing the video and events. The Eagle Eye Video API eliminates the high infrastructure burden of traditional video system integration Developers can search, modify, tag, play, share, and stream the video in their apps with a few lines of code. There are unlimited new applications for visualisation and analysis, such as point-of-sale, customer service, video alerts, employee training and more. Big Data Video Framework Eagle Eye Networks’ RESTful Video API is easy to use, scalable, secure, reliable, and redundant, providing a robust set of storage, analytics, indexing, and interfaces for quickly building or integrating applications with both live and recorded video. The Eagle Eye Video API eliminates the high infrastructure burden of traditional video system integration, by removing the requirement to purchase and install servers, storage, and software and hire staff to assemble and maintain the infrastructure before beginning development. The platform uses the Eagle Eye Big Data Video Framework, with time-based data structures for indexing, search, retrieval and analysis of the video. There are no extra charges for using the Eagle Eye Cloud VMS API. Some examples of API usage include analytics integration, user database integration, simplified user interface development, specialised mobile app development, and many more.

A battery powered alarm system with video verification has been launched by Reconeyez, providing a new high quality and flexible solution for outdoor security, with a particular emphasis on mobile/temporary security as well as permanent outdoor asset and infrastructure protection. The completely standalone system can be used where there is no mains power and the PIR cameras work with a battery powered 2G/3G/4G bridge to send alarms and images back to a control room for verification purposes. Key features Some of the key features of the system include; HD quality images from PIR cameras day and night Integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) to reduce false alarms Extended detection range of up to 35 metres Mesh network for improved radio communications between PIR cameras and the bridge Cloud based alarm monitoring and maintenance software (optional integration into other software platforms) Separate cameras for day and night Reconeyez is looking for installation partners across Europe active in markets such as construction site security, perimeter securityThe PIR Cameras incorporate separate cameras for day and night image capture, with a bank of IR illuminators to provide HD image quality by night as well as by day. Estonian based Reconeyez may be a new name to the commercial market, but its parent company, Defendec, has been supplying the same technology to the defence and border security market since 2009, with deployments in about 24 countries around the world. Reconeyez is currently looking for installation partners across Europe active in markets such as construction site security, vacant property protection, perimeter security, critical infrastructure and remote asset/infrastructure protection. The company has recruited seasoned industry professionals to drive the new business launch. Simon Faulkner has joined from Eagle Eye Networks and will have responsibility for the UK and Ireland markets, whilst Gary Frith, who previously represented Videofied, will work with installation partners across other European markets.

Kinesis vehicle telematics is giving Lincolnshire Security complete visibility of its mobile operation. The recently implemented tracking system gives the Boston-based company round the clock monitoring of mobile staff for resource planning, incident response, customer reporting and health and safety responsibilities. Manned guarding and mobile security Lincolnshire Security services include alarm response and key holding, mobile patrols, static guards and special event security Offering a wide range of guarding and mobile security, Lincolnshire Security services include alarm response and key holding, mobile patrols, static guards and special event security. Integration with fuel cards from UK Fuels, Kinesis also gives Lincolnshire Security additional intelligence including driver performance data and financial transactions with a single platform for all their fleet-related data. Other benefits of Kinesis include live traffic alerts and congestion reports, improved security and asset management and better financial management.  Vehicle and asset tracking “We have used vehicle tracking now for some time now,” commented Lee Revell, Account Manager at Lincolnshire Security Ltd. “So, when the time came to review the in-situ system we looked around for alternatives. Kinesis was cost efficient, functionally rich and integrated with our existing fuel cards.”  Kinesis is easy to use with live location reports, updated every 30 seconds, displayed against an easy to interpret map screen" “Kinesis is easy to use with live location reports, updated every 30 seconds, displayed against an easy to interpret map screen. It’s also easy to access – available on any Internet connected device,” continued Revell. “The peace of mind provided by Kinesis coupled with the additional evidence-based reporting is critical for staff safety and customer reporting and will help us control costs as we continue to grow the business.” Kinesis integrated fuel cards Kinesis integrated fuel cards will help Lincolnshire Security reduce paperwork associated with credit card or expenses claims and improve the management of fuel consumption with accurate MPG calculations potentially assisting in decreasing costs and environmental emissions. Kinesis can also deliver driver performance data, including speeding, harsh braking and accelerating and idling, which can be used to monitor and improve driver behaviour for additional health and safety monitoring and cost control.

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.

Small business owners work hard. They are often the first ones there in the morning and the last to leave at night. Even then, they likely bring their work home with them. During that time, everything they do is aimed at making their business as successful as possible. Because of this, many business owners don’t take vacations, and if they do, they spend a lot of time worrying about their business while they’re away. In both cases, the potential for burnout is tremendously high. The primary concern for these individuals is loss, whether from theft, waste, vandalism or other causes. Depending on the degree of the loss, it can have a devastating effect on small business. Therefore, professional security solutions must be top of mind for these businesses. Small business owners can take advantage of advanced technology that can help them work smarter, not harder Video surveillance for small businesses One technology that can address loss, the feeling of helplessness that comes from not being on site and more is video surveillance. Sadly, it’s not always on the radar for small business owners, many of whom think video surveillance is very expensive and out of reach. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. There are high-quality, relatively inexpensive solutions that don’t require much, if any, configuration, allowing an installer to place cameras, run cable, plug cameras into the recorder and use software to get end users up to speed on remote access. Best of all, almost all of these solutions come with a mobile app or other means of accessing video—both live and recorded—remotely from a smartphone or tablet. In a world where our phones have become our lifeline to a lot of information, including email, banking, inventory management and more, a security system simply has to provide this type of access. Given the availability of cost-effective video surveillance solutions and their ease of use, small business owners can take advantage of advanced technology that can help them work smarter, not harder in a few key areas. Video surveillance solutions come with a mobile app for accessing video remotely from a smartphone or tablet Efficient incident monitoring Having a high-quality video surveillance system with proper coverage means that any time an incident or loss occurs, a small business owner can go back and find it on the video and identify exactly what happened. For example, if something goes missing from a retail store, reviewing the video will reveal exactly what happened, when it happened, how it happened and—depending on lighting, camera resolution and field of view—possibly who took it. Video systems can also be valuable from a liability perspective. Slip-and-fall claims are not uncommon, but in many cases they turn out to be false. Thankfully, cameras can provide video that will support or refute a claim. Without video, such incidents could be costly for small businesses. A simple review of recorded videos will solve any mystery and eliminate the potential for a long argument with no evidence Video recording for incident verification Another example would be a customer who claims they were shorted on the change they received from a cashier. Rather than taking the time to count the money in the drawer and reconcile that with receipts, a small business owner could simply review video from a camera placed above the point of sale to determine if the customer’s claim is correct or if they may have been mistaken. This feature can also help alleviate or avoid a potentially awkward or difficult situation when there’s a difference of opinion with a supplier. Say for instance a delivery driver claims he or she brought three cases of product to the back door, but there are only two cases in the stockroom. A simple review of the video that’s been recorded will solve the mystery once and for all and eliminate the potential for a long, drawn-out argument with no evidence one way or the other. Smartphones for remote monitoring It’s natural for small business owners to feel stressed when they’re not at their physical location. After all, they’re the ones who have invested in the business and are responsible for making sure it runs smoothly and profitably from day to day. For small business owners with surveillance systems, vacations can become not only a reality but also the relaxing time they are supposed to be. For small business owners with surveillance systems, vacations can become not only a reality but also the relaxing time Rather than sitting on a beach and worrying about whether the store opened on time or if employees are doing what they’re supposed to be doing, an owner can pull out his or her smartphone, log in to remotely to the video system and know for sure. That peace of mind is invaluable for small business owners. This is also helpful for business owners with multiple locations. Because no one can be in two—or more—places at once, a video surveillance system can provide eyes and in some cases ears at a location, which can be accessed at the click of a button. Video surveillance for training For a small business, it’s imperative that employees follow established policies and that staffing levels are maintained at the most efficient level possible. These are two other areas where video surveillance can help. If a small business owner sees that something isn’t being done properly, whether by a single employee or if the problem is more widespread, he or she can use video for training purposes. They can sit down with the employee or employees to review the video and explain the proper policies and procedures. Conversely, video can be used to demonstrate proper techniques or even to recognise employees for a job well done. From a staffing standpoint, reviewing video could reveal unexpectedly busy or down times Maintaining staffing levels From a staffing standpoint, reviewing video could reveal unexpectedly busy or down times. A business owner can review video from 3 p.m. on a Saturday to see how many customers are in a location and determine the ratio of employees to customers. Looking at a variety of times over a period of weeks or months could help determine optimal staffing levels, which may lead to the decision to increase staffing on Saturday afternoons when a store is busy. This will help improve customer experience and potentially increase sales. Motion detection for accurate access control Cameras can be deployed with motion-detection sensors to alert business owners when someone enters a certain area, whether during or after business hours. In many cases, detected motion can trigger an alert and/or a video clip to be sent to the business owner’s smartphone so they can review and verify whether something is out of the ordinary. These deployments could be set up to monitor a variety of locations, such as an office, safe, doors and other sensitive areas at all times or just during specific hours. If motion is detected during off hours, the business owner can view video and alert police that an unauthorised individual is at their business. Surveillance videos can be used to demonstrate proper techniques or even to recognise employees for a job well done Cybersecure video surveillance systems From a cybersecurity perspective, manufacturers are constantly releasing firmware updates to protect cameras from malware and/or unauthorised intrusion. Once someone has accessed any device, all systems and devices connected to the same network become vulnerable. Updating these devices tends to be an afterthought for small business owners, who may either forget or simply not have the time to do it. So it should come as no surprise that these important updates often go uninstalled. Today’s advanced video systems overcome this obstacle with easy updating, which can be performed by small business owners or installers to ensure constant protection. Other systems are available with auto-updating capabilities, which remove the onus from small business owners completely. Today’s advanced video systems overcome cyberthreats with easy updating Cost-effective surveillance solutions These are just a few of the many benefits video surveillance systems offer small business owners. What’s important to note is that for each to be successful requires having to have the right camera for the right environment. For instance, a camera positioned at the back door of a business has to have wide dynamic range to deal with changing light levels throughout the day. A camera used to monitor transactions must offer high enough resolution to identify bill denominations. Today’s solutions are cost-effective, easy to use and offer the flexibility to monitor operations from anywhere at any time – giving small business owners the power to work smarter, not harder to grow their bottom line.

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.

Working together to develop an intelligent body-worn camera for public safety users, Motorola Solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) company Neurala are demonstrating how AI can be added to everyday devices such as smart phones using existing hardware platforms.  AI software, working at the “edge,” provides the capability to add AI functionality to existing cameras, such as Motorola’s Si500 body-worn camera. An agreement to develop the products follows Motorola’s strategic investment in Neurala in January 2017. “The technology is real, as our prototypes have demonstrated,” says Massimiliano “Max” Versace, Neurala CEO. “The technology will mature dramatically by the end of the year.” A final, marketable product from Motorola might be a year or more away, and the timing will depend on extensive testing in the meantime, he says. The goal is to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest, such as missing children or suspects. Adapting hardware for artificial intelligence Neurala’s learning capabilities “at the edge” are hardware-agnostic; its software-only focus enables the principles of artificial intelligence to be applied to a variety of hardware platforms, including low-cost platforms used inside smart phones. Typically, cost and the need for speed are limitations that determine what hardware can be leveraged using the software. The goal is to enable police officers to more efficiently search for objects or persons of interest, such as missing children or suspects In the case of the Motorola body-worn camera, AI functionality is being added to existing hardware in the device, which is much like a smart phone encased in the form factor of a body-cam. Today’s smart phones include cameras, gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide sufficient data to drive AI applications. Software adapts existing hardware to transform them into AI devices capable of continuous learning in the field. Finding missing people in crowds Neurala and Motorola are promoting the new agreement with a use case of how a policeman’s body-worn camera could help find a missing child in a crowd. A network “pushes” a photo of a missing child to a network of 1,000 body-worn and/or dashboard cameras in the field, which employ AI to search for the child within each camera’s field of view and then provide an alert when a match is found. The cameras operate passively, without involving police officers, in effect automating the process without police officers having to look at every face in a crowd. AI’s contribution is to eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage. Neurala began working in AI 11 years ago, long before the current buzz in the market. In a sense, awareness has caught up with the company, which has been developing its technologies ahead of the curve. “The same technology could be applied to closed circuit cameras to detect other objects,” says Versace. “The Neurala Brain is neural network software that can be trained to find a variety of objects, such as backpacks or vehicles, in the air or on the ground.” AI’s contribution is to eliminate the need for humans to do repetitive or boring work, such as look at hours of video footage Adding AI to existing security devices Other applications are also being developed. For example, Neurala has applied its technology to help the Lindbergh Foundation fight poaching of elephants and rhinos in southern Africa using video from drones as part of its Air Shepherd Program. Neurala’s software helps human analysts by searching through terabytes of video, including infrared, in real time as the drone is flying, pinpointing animals, vehicles and poachers during the day and at night. Versace expects the first applications of AI on existing products, including cameras and drones, before it is applied to robotics and other new applications. In effect, Neurala provides a “brain plug-in” that can add AI to change an existing solution from a passive sensor to a device that is “active in its thinking,” he adds. AI is here to stay, says Versace. “The market should know that AI has reached a point of no return. Companies that don’t use AI will be left behind. It’s the way to go to amplify your output.” Does Artificial Intelligence threaten humans? However, the technology isn’t perfect and shouldn’t be expected to be. “It’s still a growing technology, so you can’t expect 100 percent correct performance, especially if you deploy it in a constrained environment such as a cell phone,” says Versace. “AI can approximate 90 percent of a human’s ability to detect an object, and it’s tireless and can work 24 hours a day. It’s a liberating technology that takes on jobs that are not interesting, such as looking for a backpack on a computer screen.” AI tends to engender anxiety among some, with people like Elon Musk warning of an existential threat of the technology and a coming AI apocalypse. We should all relax, says Versace. “It’s a liberating technology,” he says. “Anyone who talks about AI as dangerous is not an AI expert. The less you know about AI, the more alarmist you are.” He suggests the physical security market should “learn more about it so they won’t be so scared.”

Add March Networks to the growing list of companies in the physical security market that are addressing the possibility of cyber-threats. Cybersecurity is especially relevant to two of March Networks’ primary vertical markets – banking, whose focus on money requires stringent cybersecurity; and retail, which has been the target of recent cybersecurity attacks. “People just don’t know what to do with cybersecurity,” says Dan Cremins, Global Leader, Product Management at March Networks. “The thing is, you have to figure out how to make your products, solutions and networks more secure, and then let them know what you are doing about it.” Cybersecurity mobile app As the profile of cybersecurity has increased in the physical security market, March Networks has added cybersecurity features to its GURU app. GURU is a mobile app for integrators to use when installing and diagnosing equipment in the field. Using a wireless dongle, the system can read the QR (Quick Response) code on a camera, for example, and provide installation information specific to that camera. As the profile of cybersecurityhas increased in the physicalsecurity market, March Networkshas added cybersecurity featuresto GURU GURU’s new Security Audit tool enables the app to scan a unit and check to make sure it is cybersecure; that is, the right ports have been closed and default passwords have been changed. Simple green, yellow and red coding communicates the cybersecurity status of equipment as it is being installed – and it takes less than five minutes. After installation, the GURU app can be used to conduct an extra check to ensure cybersecurity. There is also a section on the March Networks web site identifying security vulnerabilities (listed by CVE [Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures] number), explaining whether they affect March Networks equipment, and the availability of any patches. “Cybersecurity is the number one threat to any industry, including ours,” says Cremins. “We offer a tool to help people address it. We are trying to be as proactive as possible, and stay ahead of it.” Integrating inventory tracking & video There are other developments at March Networks, too, including a new integration partner in the retail sector. Tracking inventory is critical to retail loss management, and March Networks has integrated its video system with the Zebra RFID system for inventory tracking. Zebra uses radio frequency identification (RFID). Asset tags are used in combination with sensors mounted throughout a facility to keep track of where goods are transported in a retail store, warehouse or other location. If something goes missing,video of that item, tied to trackinginformation from the RFID system,is available instantly to aid withan investigation The Zebra RFID system generates inventory tracking information that is integrated with March Networks video in much the same way that point-of-sale (POS) information has been used with video. Information from inventory tracking is associated directly with each frame of video. The integration allows video cameras to watch equipment as it moves around a warehouse or retail space. If something goes missing, video of that item, tied to tracking information from the RFID system, is available instantly to aid with an investigation. In addition to retail, there are also applications of RFID inventory tracking in medical environments, where expensive equipment is used throughout a hospital, for example. Integration of video with inventory control would allow video cameras to watch medical equipment as it travels from floor to floor and room to room. Video provides a valuable investigation tool if a medical device goes missing. “They can review the video to see where it was and see what happened with it,” says Cremins. HDR cameras for banking applications At the recent ASIS show in Orlando, March Networks introduced the new ME4 series of multi-exposure, 4 megapixel cameras. The cameras are aimed at improving video image performance in situations with varied light, such as a glass-enclosed ATM enclosure, bank branch, or a retail location where bright windows can cause backlighting and other problems. In addition to better image quality and resolution, the cameras have been designed very economically, says Cremins. They strike a balance between video clarity and bandwidth and storage efficiency. The cameras use HDR (high dynamic range) technology designed for the most extreme lighting conditions. Even in an environment surrounded completely by glass, the cameras can still see the person in the foreground and details in the background. Facial details are critical in applications at banks and financial institutions.

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.

Digital Barriers, edge-based IoT surveillance and security technologies solutions provider, has announced that its cutting-edge facial recognition technology was successfully deployed at The O2 in London to enhance security at both The BRIT Awards (“BRITs”) in February and the National Television Awards (“NTAs”) in January this year. The technology was used to screen guests at multiple entrances at both events, which had a combined television audience of more than 10 million viewers. “After a series of demonstrations with facial recognition providers, we selected Digital Barriers for our live trials. Their holistic approach, analytic technology and partnership with human verification worked perfectly in a real-world deployment,” said Stefan Thompson. Digital Barriers – SRI partnership  At the O2, Digital Barriers partnered with Super-Recognisers International (SRI), whose trained staff identify faces in crowds, enabling them to respond quickly to any matches on the system. Digital Barriers provides mobile apps linked to its facial recognition system, enabling face-to-face secondary verification and the super recognisers were fully trained in this technology. Digital Barriers has the best facial recognition technology of any I’ve seen, and I’m excited to join" Digital Barriers has also announced that following this successful partnership, Kenny Long, SRI’s co-founder and COO, has joined Digital Barriers. “As an expert in people identification I’ve seen every solution on the market,” he said. “Digital Barriers has the best facial recognition technology of any I’ve seen, and I’m excited to join.” Facial recognition system at O2 Arena Digital Barriers and SRI have agreed to partner together wherever there is a requirement to combine facial recognition and specialist operators. “This is a unique offering anywhere in the world,” Kenny Long explained, “and I look forward to working with my former colleagues.” “The O2 is the world’s most popular music and entertainment venue, we’re continually reviewing our security measures. The use of facial recognition is proving to be a valuable enhancement to the security and safety of the venue, its guests and staff. The trials with Digital Barriers have been successful and we’re committed to creating a safe and secure venue for all our fans, staff and performers,” said Paul Williams, Senior Security Manager at The O2. “There are multiple companies in the facial recognition field making claims as to what their technologies can do in the real-world – most have never deployed at scale successfully and rely instead on exaggerated marketing,” said Zak Doffman, CEO of Digital Barriers. “We work with government agencies around the world. Our technology is field-proven in the hardest operating environments. We are delighted with the successful deployments at The O2 and that Kenny Long is joining us. Both attest to the world-class quality of our technology.”

Integrity Security Group is using SmartTask’s SmartForms to gain added visibility and dramatically cut down on its administrative burden. Having adopted the employee scheduling and mobile workforce management software last year for the provision of proof of attendance, control room management and staff rostering, the company is now using its electronic data capture functionality to streamline a range of operational processes. Initially, SmartForms are being used for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections as well as daily vehicle checks, already saving more than 15 hours of admin a month. SmartTask SmartForms The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team “We are now using the SmartTask SmartForms to help reduce administration, capture critical work data and enforce health and safety procedures,” explains James Chittil, General Manager at Integrity Security Group. “We are constantly looking at clever ways to take advantage of the software’s rich functionality, so we can continue to simplify and enhance the way we operate.” The SmartForms replace previous paper-based processes that were increasingly difficult to manage by the office-based admin team. All reporting for vacant property and mobile patrol inspections – for both scheduled patrols and alarm activations – are now completed using a SmartTask-enabled smartphone. By electronically capturing all relevant information, including photo evidence, Integrity can quickly provide customers with a status update and details of all undertaken work as well as respond to any identified issues. Vehicle checks and fleet management Meanwhile, daily vehicle checks for Integrity’s fleet of vans are now completed using a specially-developed SmartForm, so the company can instantly see if drivers are complying with this health and safety procedure. Any vehicle-related problems or damage can be raised by the driver and actioned immediately by the admin team to mitigate fleet risk. Mileage data is also captured through the software, enabling maintenance requirements to be tracked and scheduled at appropriate intervals. “The SmartForms are enabling us to dramatically reduce paperwork and remove manual processes. This is making it much simpler for both our security officers in the field and our office-based admin team to capture, collate and communicate essential operational data. This is not only helping us make better use of our valuable resources, but also enhance the service we are providing to customers,” added James Chittil. Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask commented: “Our experience within the security sector means we are continually developing new functionality that overcome real-world problems for our customers. This is the reason we are working in partnership with a growing number of security businesses who recognise the value they can gain and the benefits they can achieve from using the SmartTask software.” Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff Lone worker protection Integrity selected SmartTask to replace an outdated time and attendance system, enabling it to effectively monitor the whereabouts and welfare of staff as part of its commitment to lone worker protection. The company is also using the intelligent rostering functionality to streamline internal planning processes, while the interactive dashboard supported the launch of a dedicated, out-of-hours control room operation by providing a live view of all scheduled shifts and expected or missed check calls. SmartTask is an advanced and simple-to-use employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that enables security companies to better plan and manage their workers, so they are at the right place, at the right time. The cloud-based software solution combines intelligent rostering, live monitoring and integrated proof of attendance across both static and mobile teams, making it the ideal tool to improve operational control, enhance customer satisfaction, and support duty of care to staff.

More and more police forces in the EU are getting equipped with bodycams. Recently the State Police of Niedersachsen in Germany, the Police of Mechelen in Belgium and the Police in the Czech Republic have signed contracts for the supply of bodycams by Dutch company Zepcam. Body worn video (BWV) and body worn cameras (BWC) Body worn video (BWV) and body worn camera’s (BWC) improve the safety of law enforcement officers Body worn video (BWV) and body worn camera’s (BWC) improve the safety of law enforcement officers, increase transparency and supply video-evidence for criminal investigation purposes. Surveys in the US, where bodycams are used for years now, show that they de-escalate aggression or have a civilizing effect on police-citizen encounters, thus reducing complaints. Also, police forces want to use bodycams as a countermeasure against the public shooting more and more videos of incidents on their smartphones. Unlike public videos, footages captured by law enforcement can be admissible in court. Zepcam, bodycams supplier for police forces globally Zepcam already supplies bodycams to police forces in 15 countries like Switzerland, Germany, Hong Kong and The Netherlands. The Dutch company is global supplier in Europe, with clients in over 40 countries. It both manufactures and supplies the camera systems and the IT structure which automatically stores and processes the captured footages. Zepcam has seen and enormous increase in the use of bodycams by law enforcement in the past five years The State Police of German State Niedersachsen has ordered 500 bodycams in a 4-year contract. Zepcam has won this tender because its cameras and software platform made the best match with requirements of field users and the central IT department. The region of Mechelen is the first police zone in Belgium to deploy bodycams on a large scale. Zepcam was selected after a test period with 7 different bodycam suppliers. Video management software (VMS) integration The Czech Police in the Central Bohemian Region purchased Zepcam bodycams for law enforcement purposes. Also, the company will assist the police force to expand and integrate the new video management software in the management software that is used in over 80 locations in the Czech Republic. Zepcam has seen and enormous increase in the use of bodycams by law enforcement in the past five years. According to the company the cameras help reduce aggression and allow for better transparency. For instance, because situations tend to de-escalate when people know they are being recorded.

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.

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?

How mobile telephones have transformed into “smartphones” is one of the great technology stories of our time. What once was a single-function device now can do almost anything – display video, pay for groceries, monitor our health. The smartphones we carry in our pockets today have more computing power than the “super computers” of yesteryear, and that power has found many uses in a seemingly endless array of “apps.” Some of them are directly related to our physical security systems. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What security applications are best suited to smartphone apps?