Network Video Recorders

Johnson Controls announces the release of the newest version of Tyco victor video management and VideoEdge NVR systems designed to provide users with mission-critical, enterprise-level solutions, while also furthering the solution’s cyber position and evolving the unification between victor/VideoEdge and Tyco Software House C•CURE 9000 security and event management platform. The release of version 5.4 offers dynamic features to flexibly support hundreds of cameras, empower facial biometrics, provide video media encryption, and improve management and organisation of live and recorded video, including in C•CURE Unified environments. Strengthens cybersecurity measures “By leveraging the enhanced feature set in the latest version of the victor and VideoEdge solution, users can take an even more proactive approach to security, and easily grow the system as their video, facial biometric and analytics needs increase,” said Jammy DeSousa, senior product manager, American Dynamics, Building Technologies & Solutions, Johnson Controls. v5.4 of victor and VideoEdge strengthens cybersecurity measures to address the issue of file tamperingVersion 5.4 of victor and VideoEdge further strengthens existing cybersecurity measures to address the issue of file tampering and remote and local sabotage by encrypting the media stored on the NVRs. Other new functionalities include enhanced device addition, which adds flexibility and cuts down on time spent adding or editing cameras connected to the NVRs; integrity reports and audits for missing or modified media; and parallel recording of two video streams, providing a lower resolution option for fast download. Streamlines important monitoring functions For victor and C•CURE Unified systems, improved event configuration and robustness, area controls support, and C•CURE event editing help streamline important monitoring functions. Area controls are now unified, adding in the ability for valuable video context for remote visibility of area management. With updated facial biometrics, this release offers better runtime performance, accuracy, and the ability to simplify maintenance and bulk enrolment across the VMS with the addition of victor Identity Manager and the facial biometric engine update. Finally, organising clips, video, and events across the enterprise has never been easier with video enhancements to master application server capabilities.

ATMs have become a cornerstone of day-to-day life for millions, but they can also be vulnerable to attack. The global ATM Industry Association reported an increase of ATM crime of 12% for 2017. And attacks, of course, often involve ATM users, potentially injuring them and causing trauma. But since, by definition, ATMs are often situated outside buildings and used at all times of the day and night, securing them is a challenge - and banks are turning to more intelligent solutions. According to ATM Industry Association (ATMIA), there are an estimated 3.5 million ATMs in the world serving those in need of cash 24/7, 365 days a year. And there’s where the difficulty in securing them lies. To be effective, most ATMs need to be in public areas and open all hours. This, coupled with the fact that they hold hard cash, makes them an attractive target. False card readers to steal card details Security precautions for ATMs are an important part of a financial institution’s overall security solutionCriminals target these machines – or more precisely – the people using them in numerous ways. Distracting customers at ATMs in an attempt to take their cards or cash from them, or to discover their PIN number for use at a later date, for example. They also try to install false card readers that steal customer’s card details for reuse. On the other side of the story, banks need to deal with customer disputes. A very small percentage of ATM transactions result in situations where the customer questions whether the transaction has been carried out as requested, or even disputes making the withdrawal at all. So, security precautions for ATMs are an important part of a financial institution’s overall security solution. Using Deep Learning technology Inside an ATM machine, two covert cameras are installed, one trained on the user, the other on the ATM panel. Deep Learning technology embedded in the ATM security system can detect any ‘abnormalities’ in the facial scene in front of it, referring to existing data patterns. So, if there is another face in the picture (for example someone looking over a user shoulder), or if the person wearing a mask, an alarm can be triggered in the security centre. Using the same technology, the security system can flag if the number pad is covered with a strip to steal PIN codes Using the same technology, the security system can also flag if the number pad is covered with a strip to steal PIN codes, or if a false card reader (or ‘skimmer’) is present to steal card details. All of these ‘smart’ alarms streamline the security monitoring process, meaning that security personnel can react to real-time scenarios and not waste time on false alarms. The footage can provide evidence for any investigation. Hikvision DeepinMind NVR The Deep Learning ‘engine’ here would be the Hikvision DeepinMind NVR, which takes the information from the camera and analyses it using Deep Learning algorithms. This can also ‘manage’ footage, in conjunction with other NVRs and a video management system, which brings this part of a total solution together with all the other elements, providing a powerful toolset for security and business intelligence. Securing assets at the extremities of security solution is a lot easier with Deep Learning technology. Even ATMs outside the building can be safer, avoiding fraud and protecting the customers every day.

Through August 2019, IDIS, the South Korean video surveillance solutions manufacturer will highlight the applicability of its end-to-end Total Solution to the spectrum of challenges facing campus safety and security professionals in the Americas. Campus Safety Conference  IDIS America, the regional headquarters for South Korea’s in-country manufacturer of surveillance technology, kicks off several weeks of focus on the unique challenges and concerns related to campus security in the Americas. Beginning with an appearance at the 2019 Campus Safety conference in Dallas and continuing through August with outreach focusing on the unique suitability of the high-performing, cost-effective IDIS Total Solution to meet the widely varying (and, at times, highly specific) needs of campuses, large and small, in the Americas. “There’s no question there has never been a greater time of challenge or urgency when it comes to campus safety and the protection of our nation’s students, faculty, staff and others,” notes Keith Drummond, Senior Director at IDIS America. “You only have to open a newspaper—or even just talk with the students in your life—to know that challenges to campus safety and security run the gamut from traditionally smaller, more familiar concerns like fights, contraband, and unauthorised movement, to worries about lethal threats like active shooters.“ IDIS Total Solution IDIS promise to meet any surveillance need, of any size or complexity with high performing technology" Keith further states, “When you throw in the inherent complication of maintaining full situational awareness in a dynamic campus and the requirements most schools have to build and maintain security infrastructure—often funded with limited taxpayer, grants, or donor dollars—in the most fiscally responsible way possible, campus safety and security professionals must balance a great deal as part of keeping their charge—and no two campuses are ever alike. That’s where we believe IDIS and it’s adaptable, scalable, and complete end-to-end total solution for both analog and IP surveillance makes the difference.” Drummond also points to the IDIS promise to “meet any surveillance need, of any size or complexity” with high performing technology and a low total cost of ownership as key to the company’s unique value proposition for American campuses. The company’s flagship DirectIP range of IP solutions, award-winning for its true plug and play ease of installation and use, next-generation features, high degree of interoperability, forward- and backward-compatibility guarantees, and long (often longest) industry warranties—all with a cost-free, full featured VMS included and total lack of recurring licensing fees. DirectCX analog solution This serves as the base of the company’s solution for campuses, with complementary product lines (including the full product line in the company’s DirectCX analog solution, easily integrated with existing systems or seamlessly incorporated as part of a mixed analog/IP requirement) and sub-ranges (including the IDIS Compact Solution of IP cameras designed to deliver high performance in with lower-profile form factors and a wider variety of price points). “IDIS’s technology makes it possible for those responsible for the design and deployment of campus security solutions to avoid traditional (and frustrating) tradeoffs between quality and performance and cost-effectiveness,” adds Andrew Myung, President of IDIS America. IDIS Compact Solution Our technology is designed and developed through our market-responsive R&D process" “Our technology is designed and developed through our market-responsive R&D process, manufactured in our secure, flexible, and efficient Smart Factory (cited in peer reviewed research and honoured with a Presidential Citation for innovation), and delivered with our industry leading warranties and compatibility guarantees. This allows us to deliver next generation technology, packed with innovative, award-winning features, benefits, and support with a proven low total cost of ownership, without recurring licensing fees.” “That unique mix of factors and advantages is huge for campuses that are both performance- AND cost-conscious, and for whom showing maximum attentiveness to the core mission of keeping students and campus communities safe, as well as strong financial stewardship of taxpayer, grant, and donor dollars is essential.” IDIS cameras Drummond and Myung note, that ultimately, it’s the ability of IDIS cameras, recorders, software to truly meet any surveillance need, no matter the size or complexity of the requirement, that makes the case. That’s why the company’s activities over the next several weeks will include interviews, topical and industry education social media posts and videos, and demonstrations and appearances, beginning with an appearance at the 2019 Campus Safety conference in Dallas, where visitors can discuss specific challenges and requirements with the IDIS team and go hands on with IDIS technology. The IDIS team will also be available for phone, the web, and in person (including demonstrations at the IDIS America demonstration centre, near Dallas) consultations regarding general and specific campus safety challenges.

Banks are the places not only giving customers promising futures but also potential risks whenever transaction is undergoing. With the advanced technology, banking security has become more challenging under different operation circumstances, such as ATMs, personal visit to branch offices or self-service banking station. A well-integrated and reliable surveillance solution will help secure customers' financial assets and safety for all people in this environment in every aspect. Centralised management When designing a suitable surveillance system for the banking, the general challenges would be: Reliability for Cameras - Banks require the solution providing sufficient reliability for long-term operations. Besides, the cameras have to support clear images with high quality, regardless of different kinds of environments or applications. Recorded Video Data Retention - The data retention of recorded video is particularly important to the planning and acceptance of bank security projects. Solution Scalability - Banking security often requires a distributed structure with centralised management. In addition, the solution has to be scalable, enabling customers to add cameras at individual locations or expand the coverage of the solution to include even more locations. Video surveillance solutions Surveon Makes the Differences in Bank Surveillance: Well Protect Video with Mask & Watermark Functions - Surveon provides video protection mask and watermark functions, offering higher values for privacy and authenticity needed for banking application. CMS & Remote Monitoring - With the Surveon Control Center (SCC) remote monitoring and centralised management, bank operations become easier and surveillance costs can be reduced. Reliable Compact Cameras - Surveon compact series camera provides excellent megapixel image quality even under complex light conditions, protecting banks and ATMs from potential threats. Long-time Storage - Provide large capacities for 1-year non-stopping recording. Zero Video Loss with Failover & Backup System - Without using spare NVR, Surveon Failover solution allows failover NVR to work normally and only use failover licenses to take over recording from the failed NVR when needed, ensuring no video loss for mission-critical applications like banking surveillance. Surveon is dedicated to offering a variety of end-to-end video surveillance solutions catering to different vertical applications, giving partners reliable options for their projects.

Exacq has announced its integration with the highly rated monitoring station software, MASterMind. These technologies combined utilise video verification services to receive live video from the exacq Network Video Recorder when an event occurs, and sends a call to the monitoring station call centre. Made possible through the Connected Partner Program, the exacqVision and MASterMind integration allows seamless collaboration of video into the dispatching process through MASvideo. This provides command centres and central stations the ability to coordinate incoming alarms with the associated video captured by cameras located at the monitored site: Features of the integration The integration provides powerful features such as: View live video linked to an incoming alarm Control single or multi image views Select between cameras utilising PTZ camera features Record video within a single application The Connected Partner Program is designed for product manufacturers and software developers. This opportunity offers access to all the tools needed to build integrations with Tyco products, including software, hardware, documentation, sample code, dedicated engineering and marketing support.

Arecont Vision Costar, a provider of network-based video surveillance solutions, announces the 1st anniversary of its launch as a business unit of Texas-based Costar Technologies, Inc. The new company has committed itself to the delivery of the surveillance industry’s best customer experience and to fully addressing ongoing customer needs and requirements. 3 pillars of business “It’s been an exciting first year for Arecont Vision Costar,” said Shane Compton, Chief Engineering Officer, Costar Technologies, Inc., and General Manager, Arecont Vision Costar. “All aspects of the company are focused on the three main pillars of our business, which are Product Quality and Reliability, Customer Service and Support, and in delivering Innovation in everything we do.” Integrating and leveraging resources Arecont Vision Costar has been integrating and leveraging the wider resources of parent Costar The company marked its 1st anniversary with the launch of a new public website. Arecont Vision Costar launched on July 13th, 2018, following the acquisition of the product portfolio, patents, trademarks, and technology of the original Arecont Vision, LLC. A majority of the employees at time of acquisition moved to the new company, and Costar has been adding key personnel in executive leadership roles and across sales, development, operations, customer support, and other areas. Significant investment has been made in new technology to improve the customer experience and increase operational efficiency, including the implementation of a NetSuite ERP system, a Customer Support Portal powered Zendesk customer service software, an updated Partner Portal, and the new public website launched this week. Throughout this process, Arecont Vision Costar has been integrating and leveraging the wider resources of parent Costar. Ongoing strategic planning “Arecont Vision Costar is a key component of Costar’s ongoing strategic planning,” stated James Pritchett, President and Chief Executive Officer. “The leadership and team members of the new business unit have come together quickly and are already making a big contribution to Costar and to overall customer satisfaction. We expect the entire company will continue to grow and expand our business and manufacturing capabilities thanks in part to what has already been accomplished.” Costar product portfolio Costar Technologies, Inc. is a publicly traded corporation headquartered in Coppell, Texas. Costar designs, develops, manufactures, and distributes a full range of products for the video surveillance and machine vision markets. In addition to Arecont Vision Costar, the company operates four other businesses - CohuHD Costar, Costar Video Systems, Innotech Security, and IVS Imaging. The combined Costar product portfolio consists of video surveillance system software, cameras, NVRs and recorders, monitors, lenses, cables, and other electronic accessories with manufacturing in the United States and around the world. Expanding corporate operations Many headquarters functions moved to a new Collaboration and Development center Arecont Vision Costar expanded its corporate operations from a single headquarters and manufacturing facility in Glendale, California to three new locations over the past year. Many headquarters functions moved to a new Collaboration and Development center about one mile from the original facilities in Glendale. Manufacturing and warehousing operations were moved about 20 miles inland to the city of Duarte. When Costar added a new office facility located in Clovis in California’s Central Valley, Arecont Vision Costar opened a new Advanced Technology Center onsite. New showroom and demonstration facilities are also in planning. Arecont Vision Costar continues international operations from company facilities in Dubai, UAE. Both sales and field application engineering team members are located in regional locations around the world, backed by a network of authorized manufacturer’s sales representatives and partners. Total Video Solution The Arecont Vision Costar Total Video Solution™ continues as the premier offering of the one-year old business. The solution consists of a growing portfolio of ConteraIP® megapixel cameras and Made in USA products that include award-winning MegaIP® megapixel cameras, advanced ConteraVMS® video management system, cyber-secure ConteraWS® web services, and ConteraCMR® cloud-managed video recorders. Company products are ONVIF compliant and feature advanced integration with 3rd party offerings through the Arecont Vision Costar MegaLab™ program. Arecont Vision Costar products are sold by a global network of authorised distributors, systems integrators, and security dealers.

In 2017, IoT-based cyberattacks increased by 600%. As the industry moves towards the mass adoption of interconnected physical security devices, end users have found a plethora of advantages, broadening the scope of traditional video surveillance solutions beyond simple safety measures. Thanks in part to these recent advancements, our physical solutions are at a higher risk than ever before. With today’s ever evolving digital landscape and the increasing complexity of physical and cyber-attacks, it’s imperative to take specific precautions to combat these threats. Video surveillance systems Cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind When you think of a video surveillance system, cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind, since digital threats are usually thought of as separate from physical security. Unfortunately, these two are becoming increasingly intertwined as intruders continue to use inventive methods in order to access an organisation's assets. Hacks and data breaches are among the top cyber concerns, but many overlook the fact that weak cybersecurity practices can lead to physical danger as well. Organisations that deploy video surveillance devices paired with advanced analytics programs often leave themselves vulnerable to a breach without even realising it. While they may be intelligent, IoT devices are soft targets that cybercriminals and hackers can easily exploit, crippling a physical security system from the inside out. Physical security manufacturers Whether looking to simply gain access to internal data, or paralyse a system prior to a physical attack, allowing hackers easy access to surveillance systems can only end poorly. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers within the security industry are trading in their traditional analogue technology and moving towards interconnected devices. Due to this, security can no longer be solely focused on the physical elements and end users have taken note. The first step towards more secured solutions starts with physical security manufacturers choosing to make cybersecurity a priority for all products, from endpoint to edge and beyond. Gone are the days of end users underestimating the importance of reliability within their solutions. Manufacturers that choose to invest time and research into the development of cyber-hardening will be ahead of the curve and an asset to all. Wireless communication systems Integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future Aside from simply making the commitment to improve cyber hygiene, there are solid steps that manufacturers can take. One simple action is incorporating tools and features into devices that allow end users to more easily configure their cyber protection settings. Similarly, working with a third party to perform penetration testing on products can help to ensure the backend security of IoT devices. This gives customers peace of mind and manufacturers a competitive edge. While deficient cybersecurity standards can reflect poorly on manufacturers by installing vulnerable devices on a network, integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future. Just last year, ADT was forced to settle a $16 million class action lawsuit when the company installed an unencrypted wireless communication system that rendered an organisation open to hacks. Cybersecurity services In addition, we’ve all heard of the bans, taxes and tariffs the U.S. government has recently put on certain manufacturers, depending on their country of origin and cybersecurity practices. Lawsuits aside, employing proper cybersecurity standards can give integrators a competitive advantage. With the proliferation of hacks, malware, and ransomware, integrators that can ease their client's cyber-woes are already a step ahead. By choosing to work with cybersecurity-focused manufacturers who provide clients with vulnerability testing and educate end users on best practices, integrators can not only thrive but find new sources of RMR. Education, collaboration and participation are three pillars when tackling cybersecurity from all angles. For dealers and integrators who have yet to add cybersecurity services to their business portfolios, scouting out a strategic IT partner could be the answer. Unlocking countless opportunities Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organisation is the first step Physical security integrators who feel uncomfortable diving headfirst into the digital realm may find that strategically aligning themselves with an IT or cyber firm will unlock countless opportunities. By opening the door to a partnership with an IT-focused firm, integrators receive the benefit of cybersecurity insight on future projects and a new source of RMR through continued consulting with current customers. In exchange, the IT firm gains a new source of clients in an industry otherwise untapped. This is a win for all those involved. While manufacturers, dealers and integrators play a large part in the cybersecurity of physical systems, end users also play a crucial role. Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organisation is the first step. Commonplace cybersecurity standards Below is a list of commonplace cybersecurity standards that all organisations should work to implement for the protection of their own video surveillance solutions: Always keep camera firmware up to date for the latest cyber protections. Change default passwords, especially those of admins, to keep the system locked to outside users. Create different user groups with separate rights to ensure all users have only the permissions they need. Set an encryption key for surveillance recordings to safeguard footage against intruders and prevent hackers from accessing a system through a backdoor. Enable notifications, whether for error codes or storage failures, to keep up to date with all systems happenings. Create/configure an OpenVPN connection for secured remote access. Check the web server log on a regular basis to see who is accessing the system. Ensure that web crawling is forbidden to prevent images or data found on your device from being made searchable. Avoid exposing devices to the internet unless strictly necessary to reduce the risk of attacks.

Artificial intelligence allows machines to do jobs previously done by people. When it comes to security and surveillance, this technology allows cameras and control room equipment to identify a wide range of threats automatically and in real time across hundreds or even thousands of cameras – allowing security teams to take immediate action to protect people and assets. AI technology and surveillance solutions Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions help organisations optimise their security Video surveillance cameras are the electronic eyes of any security operation. In the past, human supervision was needed to make sense of the images captured, and to assess whether certain events posed a security risk or not. With some organisations using hundreds or even thousands of cameras to protect their people and assets, manual review of footage is simply impossible – potentially leaving them vulnerable to security breaches. Advanced Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions can help organisations overcome this challenge and optimise their security. This means cameras, control-room equipment and back-end infrastructure can now ‘learn’ about potential threats for themselves by recognising people, vehicles and even behaviours. Detection and prevention The manual interventions needed with traditional security systems mean that teams were frequently reacting to breaches that had already happened. Artificial Intelligence changes all this by recognising potential threats before they impact company’s people or assets – allowing security teams to react immediately to neutralise any potential threat. Artificial intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area For example, artificial Intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area, or when a vehicle with a blacklisted number plate enters a site. With alerts delivered in real time, teams can identify and react to security threats and protect people and assets more effectively. And because alerts are automated, potential threats are hardly missed or overlooked. How does artificial intelligence work? Artificial Intelligence systems become more intelligent over time, building databases of potential threats and reacting to new events accordingly. This allows systems to ‘think for themselves’ and to alert teams of any suspicious events or people who are caught on camera. Artificial intelligence technologies use advanced algorithms based on Deep Learning to distinguish between different kinds of security events and threats. Technologies incorporated into the Hikvision portfolio include: Facial recognition which allows law enforcement personnel to identify suspects and commercial teams to identify VIP customers in real time. Vehicle identification which can be used to identify vehicle number plates and recognise different types of vehicles (even down to make and model), or to trigger alerts when vehicles enter restricted areas. Perimeter protection which helps organisations to identify real threats by distinguishing people and vehicles from other moving objects and keeping false alarms to a minimum. Business intelligence which employs people counting, queue detection, and heat mapping technologies, so that organisations can enhance operational efficiency by making use of the data report. Increasing commercial success  Artificial intelligence isn’t just useful for identifying security threats – although this is a key strength of the technology. It can also help organisations increase their competitiveness and commercial success. For example, VIP customers who opt to participate in special marketing promotions or other incentives can be identified so staff can provide the right kind of service at the right time. This gives organisations the opportunity to personalise the service experience, foster loyalty and maximise customer lifetime revenues. Artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively In the same way, artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively – leading to more commercial opportunities. One feature – called People Counting – allows stores and commercial centres to map footfall at peak times, ensuring that staffing is optimised to meet demand. At the same time, stores can see which areas of the building customers visit most and adjust their merchandising and product positioning accordingly to maximise the sales opportunities. Artificial intelligence at Hikvision Hikvision’s family of artificial intelligence products include the DeepinView network cameras and DeepinMind NVRs. The products help to tackle security with facial recognition; monitoring and counting of people; and recognition and detection of vehicles, to name a few. These features all depend on artificial intelligence technology to recognise, classify and respond to security threats. This article was written by Hikvision.

For those of you old enough to remember, video matrix switchers were once the heyday of surveillance camera control. These cumbersome antiques were at the heart of every major video surveillance system (CCTV at the time) in premier gaming properties, government installations and corporate industrial complexes. They required more physical labour to construct and configure than perhaps the pyramids – maybe not – but you get the picture. And then digital video made its way in to the market and everything changed, transforming the physical demands for camera control and management from a hardware-centric to a software driven process. We’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely There’s no doubt that this migration also presented significant challenges as many security professionals often struggled with all things IT and software programming being one of the industry’s soft spots. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely. However, the complexities of today’s VMS functionality can be intimidating for anyone tasked with installing one of these systems given all of the user-defined options available from the simplest camera sequencing and bandwidth allocations to mobile management and enterprise level integration. This is where truly advanced VMS solutions need to shine on both the operations and the design/build sides of the equation. Smart VMS design There are more solutions products labelled “VMS solutions” out there than ever before. The issue is the fact that many of these “solutions” really don’t fall into the category of a true VMS by today’s standards but offer basic camera and NVR control. No doubt that there is a place for such software programs in the market. However, VMS solutions from the likes of OnSSI and other industry-leading companies offer distinct and superior management and control capabilities for demanding security and business intelligence applications. Perhaps of equal importance, these top-tier VMS solutions incorporate provisions for installers, so they have a clear and easier implementation path. OnSSI offers VMS solutions with smart camera drivers Here are seven attributes that can assist with the design and implementation of an advanced VMS solution: 1) Open architecture platform We need the ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth The ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth is largely dependent on a systems platform architecture. Here’s where VMS solutions with open architecture provide a distinct advantage. Open-architecture solutions expand functionality by facilitating greater integration between multiple systems and components. This not only makes VMS solutions with open architecture easier to implement, it makes them extremely cost-efficient by eliminating the need for proprietary solutions. Open architecture systems also provide adherence to industry standards such as ONVIF and PSIA, as well as compression formats such as H.265 and MJPEG, and help ensure system integration and support of an extensive range of manufacturers’ cameras and off-the-shelf hardware. Be wary of VMS solutions with limited camera manufacturer support. 2) Simple licensing processes and pricing Camera licenses and pricing is always a touchy subject, as any misunderstanding of a specific VMS solutions’ licensing terms can prove to be costly after the fact. And it often seems that some VMS suppliers have gone to great lengths to complicate the process as to obscure actual Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Perhaps the most direct, simple and straightforward camera licensing and pricing method is to have one license per IP address used by each camera/encoder on multi-channel devices. These should be perpetual licenses with no required annual fees or subscriptions. Additionally, the licensing agreement should be all inclusive without added fees for multiple clients, failover servers, active directory support, I/O devices, redundant management servers, technical support or security patches and updates. 3) Mixing and matching camera license types The ability to mix and match different camera license types within the same system helps facilitate a seamless and simple migration of new and pre-existing systems with minimal downtime or interruption in operation. The ability to mix and match camera licenses not only saves valuable design and installation time, it can provide considerable savings when integrating large, multi-tenant systems. Mix and match capabilities also allow system designers to apply specific feature sets to specific groups of cameras to best leverage functionality and budgets, as well as providing the flexibility to implement an on-site, virtual, or cloud-based VMS solution, without any additional cost. 4) Auto camera detection and configuration Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements. This functionality allows installers to instantly locate cameras on the network and configure them centrally so they can easily replace older cameras while seamlessly retaining video recorded from them. The auto detection capability should also include the ability to detect and import CSV files, which can then be stored and used to configure camera templates for future camera installation profiles. 5) Smart camera driver technology VMS solutions with smart camera drivers offer valuable assistance during system implementation, and any time new cameras are added to the network or replace older models. Manufacturer-specific smart camera drivers expand the range of model-specific static drivers. Instead of storing the device’s information (codecs, resolutions, frame rates, etc.) statically, a VMS with smart camera drivers queries devices for their capabilities using the manufacturers’ proprietary protocol. All that is required for configuration is that the camera is available on the network. Smart camera drivers eliminate the need to wait for model-specific drivers or installation of driver packs, allowing for newly released cameras to be used immediately. Network security is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers  6) Importance of network security Network Security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today Network security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today. This is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers. New security developments to look for include TLS 1.2 encryption protocols for camera-to-server communications (SSL 3.0 supported for older cameras), as well as server-to-server communications. Additional safeguards to consider include: randomised video databases with no camera identification information to secure recorded data; support for Active Directory authentication; AES encryption between servers and clients; and AES encrypted exporting. 7) Automatic updates Regardless of the supplier you select for your VMS solution, they should be consistently providing new updates and security patches on a frequent if not regular basis. Keeping up with these updates can be a burden and are often overlooked leading to system failures and breeches. Advanced VMS solutions now feature automatic update service checks on a system-wide basis, eliminating the need to manually update individual servers and devices. This ensures that your VMS system always has the latest drivers, fixes and updates which assures overall security while reducing TCO. So next time you’re getting a demo of the latest and greatest VMS solution, remember to ask what it offers in terms of design and implementation tools. Half the battle with new technologies is getting them installed and working properly. Without the right tools to accomplish these critical first steps, all the functionality in the world will do you little good.

Time for an indepth review of IFSEC 2019 in London. This show had fewer exhibitors than previous shows, and the ‘vibe’ was definitely more low-key. Fewer exhibitors meant larger aisles and plenty of room to breathe, and the slower pace provided time for exhibitors to reflect (often negatively) on the return on investment (ROI) of large trade shows. There was little buzz on the first day of the show, but spirits picked up on the second day (when, not coincidentally, some exhibitors served drinks to attendees at their stands). Enterprise security solutions One eye-catcher was smart wireless security provider Ajax Systems’ stylish black stand Many exhibitors compared IFSEC unfavourably to ISC West in the United States and even to Intersec in Dubai. Others seemed willing to be lured back to Birmingham (previous location for IFSEC) to participate in the upstart competitor, The Security Event, next spring. However, not all the IFSEC 2019 reviews were negative. Vaion made the most of their small stand toward the back of the hall. They experienced brisk traffic right up until the end of the show. Happy with the response, the provider of real-time enterprise security solutions reportedly has already committed to IFSEC 2020. Other exhibitors also made the most of their space at IFSEC; one eye-catcher was smart wireless security provider Ajax Systems’ stylish black stand. Vaion made the most of their small stand toward the back of the hall Latest new products Nedap launched a new product, AEOS 2019.1, that is five time faster and more stable than its predecessor. It uses HTML5 – no more reliance on Adobe. Feedback has been good. The company has also increased its integration of open security standards (OSS). Traka showcased smart lockers, which are modular, scalable, and staff can easily replace broken equipment. Product features can be adapted to specific sectors (i.e., retail, prisons). Traka spends 30% of its revenue on research and development, developing their own engineering. The company has seen massive growth in the UK and Europe. Hanwha Techwin lured visitors into the center of their stand with drinks and ice cream, surrounded by the latest new products. Hanwha promoted their investment in a manufacturing facility in Vietnam and showcased Wisenet cameras with enhanced 4K images, digital auto tracking, and less motion blur for clearer images. Video verification product A multi-sensor model captures wide areas with a single camera. Hanwha also offered some value-priced cameras that feature easy self-install and are swappable. Optex launched a new product called ‘the Bridge’, a video verification product that bridges CCTV on a digital video recorder (DVR) to intruder alarms. Hanwha showcased Wisenet cameras with enhanced 4K images UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner Tony Porter announced ‘Security By Default’, a set of minimum requirements that will guarantee users that network video security products are as secure as possible in their default settings right out of the box. Hikvision promoted their support for Secure by Default and expressed hopes the initiative would be embraced by other companies and create a new best practice for camera cybersecurity. Hikvision also promoted their retail solution, which includes on-site redaction for GDPR compliance, shelf detection incorporating artificial intelligence, and use of heat mapping to analyse customer foot traffic. Generating revenue Safety and Security Things (SAST), another IFSEC exhibitor, is in the process of creating an ‘app store’ for the security market. Striving to achieve critical mass with participation by a wide range of systems integrators and manufacturers, SAST has a goal of launching to the public in Q1 next year in time for ISC West. Hanwha Techwin is among the players that have already joined the alliance A pilot version will debut this autumn, and they already have 26 apps and six camera manufacturers toward that goal. With a staff of 120, mostly based in Munich, SAST expects to begin generating revenue in 2020 and to grow rapidly. An investment by Bosch is financing start-up operations. Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA) is creating standards and a platform to enable the sale of apps in the security market. Large industry players Hanwha Techwin is among the players that have already joined the alliance, and OSSA is seeking to add other large companies, such as Axis, Genetec and Hikvision. Engaging integrators, app developers and software providers as well as camera manufacturers will generate widespread support to ensure the initiative succeeds. Although currently most OSSA members are based in the EU and Asia, it is a global organisation open to any company in the world. Many large industry players are now missing from the IFSEC show floor; the most noticeable new abstainer this year was Milestone. And the downturn seems likely to continue: Exhibitors were largely noncommittal about returning next year, although organisers were urging them during the exhibition to sign up for 2020.

Despite any negativity you may hear, Hikvision is optimistic about their role in the U.S. market. “We demonstrate that we can be trusted, and that we should be trusted,” says Jeffrey He, Vice President, Hikvision, and President, Hikvision USA and Hikvision Canada. “We have sound products and technology. Our mission in the security industry is to protect, not to harm. Otherwise why would we be in this industry?” Hikvision is committed to investing in the North American market, where there was ‘positive year-over-year growth’ in 2018 and ‘strong’ sales in Q1 this year, according to Eric Chen, General Manager of Hikvision USA and Hikvision Canada. HikCentral central management software The company’s U.S. focus is shifting from products to solution sales, with emphasis on ‘mid-market’ small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The largest verticals are retail and education, and there are emerging opportunities in the cannabis market. Launch of the HikCentral central management software (CMS) is a component of the company’s solution-sales approach. Launch of the HikCentral central management software is a component of the company’s solution-sales approachMr. He acknowledges the growth of ‘anti-China sentiment’ in the United States and other parts of the world, which he says will impact Hikvision’s operations globally. Specifically, in the U.S., ‘political’ elements impacting Hikvision’s business include ongoing tariffs and a trade war, Congressional calls for export controls and sanctions, and a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that bans use of Chinese video surveillance products in government applications. Specifying cybersecurity initiatives at ISC West In spite of it all, Hikvision’s message at the recent ISC West show was overwhelmingly positive, and the company also detailed cybersecurity initiatives they say put the Chinese company ahead of many competitors in the industry. Eric Chen came in as General Manager last year; he previously spent a decade working for Hikvision in China. Chen reports solid 18.8% year-over-year growth for Hikvision globally, totalling $7.4 billion last year. He notes the company saw 40% compounded growth between 2010 and 2018. Globally, there are 34,000 employees, 16,000 of whom are research and development (R&D) engineers. Hikvision’s expanding global footprint includes 46 international branches. There are three manufacturing facilities in China, in addition to one in India. HikRewards program for HDP customers At ISC West, Hikvision’s theme was ‘Focus on Your Success’, including introduction of the HikRewards program that provides rebates to HDP (Hikvision Dealer Partner) customers, their core dealer base. A new online Hikvision Knowledge Library for HDPs provides training and reference materials dealers can share with employees. A new tech centre, introduced in December, provides data sheets, product information, and support resources. There is also a North American R&D team headquartered in Montreal. At the industry’s largest U.S. trade show, Hikvision unveiled a brand-new booth with plenty of open space and video walls A customer satisfaction survey launched in March provided good feedback from customers. “They know who to call if they have a problem,” says Chen. “We want to focus on making customers successful.” The success theme also extends to Hikvision employees, who are featured in videos describing their jobs and enthusiasm for Hikvision. There are some 400 employees in the North American operation. At the industry’s largest U.S. trade show, Hikvision unveiled a brand-new booth with plenty of open space and video walls. Half of the booth was focussed on solutions, especially retail and education, and also gaming and commercial real estate. Security products displayed at ISC West A variety of devices, including access control, intercoms and cameras, are integrated using the HikCentral CMS systemProduct highlights at the ISC West booth included the 32-megapixel PanoVu multi-sensor dome camera, whose 180-degree panoramic image was displayed on a 65-inch monitor. A variety of devices, including access control, intercoms and cameras, are integrated using the HikCentral CMS system. Some products new to the North American market, including intercoms, turnstiles, emergency call stations, and under-vehicle inspection, were displayed. Hikvision’s deep learning products are moving into their second generation, including the ability to obscure private information on videos to comply with GDPR/privacy requirements (previewed at ISC West and released later in the year). Algorithm components of Hikvision’s DeepInMind artificial intelligence are being adapted into a platform called AcuSense for value-priced products, which can recognise a human or vehicle and help filter out false alarms. Also being adapted to products with lower price points are the ColorVu system that incorporates visible light LEDs to provide colour images at night, and DarkFighter low-light capabilities. Penetration testing of cameras and NVRs As a global manufacturer, Hikvision faces a high level of scrutiny about cybersecurity, which Mr. Chen says is “a good thing for us,” enabling them to highlight the steps they are taking to improve cybersecurity. Chuck Davis, Director of Cybersecurity, outlined specific milestones Hikvision has achieved in its quest to provide world-class cybersecurity. Chuck Davis, Director of Cybersecurity, outlined specific milestones Hikvision has achieved in its quest to provide world-class cybersecurity In September 2017, Hikvision began working with third parties (including Rapid7) for penetration testing (ethical hacking) of its cameras and recorders. That same month, Hikvision set up a Cybersecurity Hotline open to anyone with questions about cybersecurity, including white-hat hackers and researchers. Even before that, Hikvision had an open-door policy on cybersecurity and a program for patching and disclosing responsibility. In February of 2018, Hikvision released a 40-page Cybersecurity White Paper describing cybersecurity testing and processes built into the software development lifecycle. That same month, Hikvision launched an Opened Source Code Transparency Center and offered an open invitation to anyone wanting to inspect Hikvision’s source code and let them know of any vulnerabilities. FIPS 140-2 certification by NIST Hikvision has also become a Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) Numbering Authority (CNA), which ensures their patching and incident reporting programs have been reviewed by a CNA partnering company. Hikvision's encryption module (HIKSSL) received Level 1 FIPS 140-2 certification to be used in both IP cameras and NVRsIn August, Hikvision received Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 certification, a U.S. government encryption standard created by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Hikvision's encryption module (HIKSSL) received Level 1 FIPS 140-2 certification to be used in both IP cameras and NVR products. Davis said the FIPS 140-2 certification process began before the NDAA ban on use of Hikvision products in the U.S. government, and in any case is a standard that ensures a high level of encryption. “We wanted to make sure we had the same level of technology,” he says. “It was not to win over the government.” Making industry more cybersecure “We are really trying to have third parties test and certify our equipment,” adds Davis. “We are trying to be open and transparent. Education and awareness are key.” “We need the trust of customers in the security community,” says Mr. He. “No matter what, we have to follow the highest standards to offset the concerns and accusations.” In April 2018, Davis became a member of the Security Industry Association (SIA) Cybersecurity Advisory Board to help make the entire industry more cybersecure through education, awareness and standards. Hikvision has also joined the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST at first.org), a global cybersecurity incident response consortium that cooperatively handles computer security incidents and promotes incident prevention programs. Davis has presented Cybersecurity Road Shows in 22 cities in the United States and Canada, and also in Australia and New Zealand. The 90-minute presentations focus on education awareness around cybersecurity and seek to get attendees engaged and aware about cybersecurity in business and also in their homes.

Schneider Electric’s long-rumored sale of Pelco appears to be on the verge of consummation. Schneider this week entered exclusive negotiations with Transom Capital Group, a U.S.-based private equity firm, to sell the Pelco business unit. Pelco is a security industry stalwart and global specialist in the design, development, and delivery of end-to-end video surveillance solutions and services including cameras, recording and management systems software. Revenue in 2018 was about $185 million. Pelco currently employs a staff of 478. Pelco was sold to Schneider Electric for $1.22 billion in 2007 to enhance Schneider’s building automation business Transom Capital Group, Los Angeles, is an “operationally focused” private equity firm that invests in companies in the lower-middle market. Their management claims “industry expertise to create improved operational efficiency, significant top-line growth, cultural transformation and overall distinctive outcomes.” Presumably a “turnaround” initiative could reinvigorate Pelco after several years of decline. Transom promotes an “approachable, collaborative, and down-to-earth problem-solving approach.” Founded in 1957 and originally specialising in pan-tilt devices and joysticks, Pelco rose to prominence as an independent company in Fresno, Calif. Expanding to distribution in more than 130 companies, Pelco succeeded in part through an emphasis on customer service. The company was sold to Schneider Electric for $1.22 billion in 2007 to enhance Schneider’s building automation business. The Pelco business has declined substantially under the Schneider umbrella, and the synergies with building automation were never realised. Pelco has been rumored for sale for several years. The sale would come after Schneider’s announcement it would be reviewing assets totaling 1.5 billion to 2 billion Euros of revenue In recent years, Pelco has focused on its VideoExpert video management system as the core of end-to-end solutions targeting vertical markets. The company sought to re-establish its position as a global leader in surveillance and security, with new technologies, integrations, quality advancements along with significant support initiatives to provide value and innovation to the security industry community. The sale would come after Schneider’s announcement it would be reviewing assets totaling 1.5 billion to 2 billion Euros of revenue as it looks to focus on energy management and industrial automation. Schneider did not say how much Pelco would be sold for but said the company would book a non-cash loss on disposal of up to $250 million. However, its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, and amortisation margin would rise by around 10 basis points.

Allianz Parque has become one of the most modern multi-purpose arenas in Latin Americasince it was built in 2014 by WTorre Properties. The stadium is located at the same place of the old Palestra Itália Stadium with a capacity of more than forty thousand spectators. The stadium not just meets FIFA standards but was also awarded various prizes including the Master Award in the 11th edition of the Grand Prize for Corporate Architecture, the Accessibility Seal, delivered by the Permanent Accessibility Commission (CPA), and the "Environmental Management of the Surroundings of the Work" award, at the 3rd Health and Safety at Work Seconci Award. Intelligent video surveillance cameras With an eye on the market, the management of Allianz Parque constantly invests in advanced technology and new solutions to keep the project in line with the most current standards of innovation in the world. The latest are the intelligent video surveillance cameras from Dahua Technology, globally renowned video-centric smart IoT solutions and service provider. The cameras with embedded artificial intelligence systems could help the security team of the arena The cameras with embedded artificial intelligence systems could help the security team of the arena work more efficiently and productively, so that the stadium is capable of dealing with different kinds of scenarios, such as large-scale concerts, major celebrations and, especially, football matches at Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras. Installation The installation of the entire system took around 90 days. According to the General Manager of Allianz Parque, the biggest challenge is to implement the new system with the arena in operation. "We have to carry out the replacement without any impact to the security team. But with the support of the Dahua Technology team, we are able to do the job quietly without any major changes in our initial planning,” explained Rigotto. In the project, devices with latest generation embedded artificial intelligence technologies were used. Many of their functions go beyond an image captured by an ordinary camera. Here are the camera models and technologies used: DH-IPC-PF83230-A180 - panoramic camera with four 8 Megapixel CMOS sensors, which generates a single 180-degree image of 32MP using H.265 compression technique; SD6CE245UN-HNI - PTZ-style positioning camera with various technologies, such as Starlight, which allows viewing of images in very light colors (less than 0.005lux). It has a 45x zoom system, plus an infrared illumination that can reach 250 meters away; MPT310 portable recorder, used with lapel cameras, making recording and transmission of high-definition audio and video online from the point of view of the agent close to the events; DH-IPC-HFW8242EN-Z4FD-IRA-LED - special network camera that captures human faces through AI algorithm, embedded in a chip with Deep Learning Technology. It gives the facial detection server a good deal of processing work, since the camera itself locates the faces of the video image and analyses attributes such as gender, age, facial expressions and whether it has glasses; Network camera recorder and face database manager, DHI-IVSS7016DR-4T - It works in conjunction with the CMS DSS PRO that makes the recording of the videos in the network, in addition to managing and analysing the faces pre-registered in the database of employees and service providers of Allianz Parque. User can also set a black list and the recorder will alert once unauthorised persons detected in a certain sector. The server can, in real time, work by processing the input stream at the gate opening, being able to recognise up to 40 faces per second in the Arena, detecting the faces and comparing them with the database prepared to issue field safety alerts in up to a few seconds; Video Wall, with 6 46-inch LCD screens (DHL460UCM-ES), forms a 2x3 matrix and a Dahua controller (NVD0905DH-4I-4K), which can display 4K, live images, advertisements and bulletins in a professional manner. Facial recognition system Allianz Parque now has a state-of-the-art facial recognition system, which has artificial intelligence and data analysis" "We are very proud to have this partnership with Dahua Technology. Through it, today, Allianz Parque now has a state-of-the-art facial recognition system, which has artificial intelligence and data analysis, and can be integrated into the public safety team system,” emphasised Eduardo Rigotto, General Manager of Allianz Parque. Rigotto pointed out that there are always possibilities for modernisation. "The market has changed in five years and in order to keep us in the lead as an inspiration for other spaces, we need to continue investing in new technologies," he said. In addition to providing advanced security technology, Dahua Technology also became the sponsor of Allianz Parque, as well as Prevent Senior, Banco Pine and the Allianz Seguros brand. With this, the Arena Control Center will be called CCO by Dahua Technology and there are more than 150 information boards present by Dahua Technology in the stadium to remind and protect everyone. Dahua LED panels In 2018, Dahua Technology has successfully delivered the largest RingLed 360º in Latin America, which totals 580 meters of panels for all bars in the arena. The innovative design with LED panels from Dahua Technology was developed by Digital Arena, a pioneer in the field of digital media for stadiums. "Our philosophy is to deliver large projects that make a difference not only to the customer but also to the people who will use their space," said Fabio Lopes, Channel Sales Director of Dahua Technology Brazil. Moreover, he added, "Allianz Parque is an entertainment venue where spectators aim to watch a great show with total safety and comfort. This project aims to demonstrate that Allianz Parque is one of the safest arenas in Latin America.” Stadium security Located in the city of São Paulo, Allianz Parque imposes itself between the districts of Água Branca, Pompeia, Perdizes and Barra Funda, an area of easy access, highlighted by event organisers and club fans. The space has the capacity to receive 43,700 people on game days, 55,000 for shows and 12,000 for events in the amphitheater.

Located at the very heart of Amman, Jordan, Landmark Amman Hotel is one of the most renowned 5 star hotels in the city, as well as a true local landmark in more than one ways. Boasting seventeen flexible event spaces for everything from small intimate meetings to large-scale exhibitions and 258 rooms that are among the largest hotel accommodation in Jordan, Landmark Amman Hotel is an ideal choice for high-end customers of many types. Dahua Technology, a video-centric smart IoT solution and service provider, is trusted, for the first time in Amman, with the job of keeping Landmark Amman Hotel safe in its phase 2 CCTV improvement. Need of a competent surveillance system The other challenge concerned old system’s storage, which couldn’t meet the requirement of local policeIt is difficult for a large-scale hotel like Landmark Amman to patrol the grounds and premises of the hotel relying only on security personnel. Moreover, there might be no standardised evidence for the police to check without a competent surveillance system when an accident happens. There are two aspects of the old system to be improved. The analogue system the hotel was using was not easy to manage, the problem which was exacerbated by the condition that a great number of cameras were broken. The other challenge concerned old system’s storage, which couldn’t meet the requirement of local police. IP camera and NVR solution Dahua Technology’s CCTV solution comprising IP camera and NVR solves the problems just right. IPC-HDW1431S, the 4MP WDR IR Eyeball Network Camera, supports Smart Coding (H.265+ & H.264+), Intelligent Video Analysis(IVS), Wide Dynamic Range(WDR), Smart IR Technology, etc., which is fully capable of smartly capturing the 4MP resolution images in hotels. NVR4216-4KS2, the 32 Channel 1U 4K&H.265 Lite NVR can be served as edge storage, central storage And NVR4216-4KS2, the 32 Channel 1U 4K&H.265 Lite Network Video Recorder, which supports 4K and H.265 encoding technology, can be served as edge storage, central storage or backup storage with an intuitive shortcut operation menu for remote management and control. Compatible with ONVIF 2.4 protocol Easy to install, it is compatible with numerous third-party devices making it the perfect solution for surveillance systems that work independently of video management system (VMS). It features an open architecture that supports for multi-user access and is compatible with ONVIF 2.4 protocol, enabling interoperability with IP cameras. Dahua surveillance system has helped Landmark Amman Hotel find a new way to enhance the guest experience through improving the level of security with reduced property damage and thefts in hotel. It also improved team cohesion and work efficiency of the hotel employees. Furthermore, the hotel could increase revenue by monitoring and invoicing according to actual numbers of guests, and be compliance with local authorities’ security and safety regulations. 

Faced with a number of security challenges and planned future expansion, a major airport decided it was time to implement a scalable security surveillance solution. Let’s take a look at how to manage such a scenario to ensure the selected solution provides scalability for growth. With the existing proprietary solution at the airport locked down to one manufacturer and littered with issues resulting in high maintenance and expansion costs, a new solution was required that would allow the airport to scale its surveillance solution in line with future expansion plans. Difficult in identifying people The low-resolution analogue cameras made it difficult to identify people during incidents Not only was the existing surveillance solution analogue and proprietary, it wasn’t intuitive and was difficult for operators to use. There were several ‘satellite’ security installations scattered in the various terminal buildings that weren’t viewable in the centralised Control Room which meant extra operators were required. The low-resolution analogue cameras made it difficult to identify people during incidents and coupled with the lack of video coverage, it gave operators poor situational awareness. Reviewing past events with the existing VMS was difficult as playback wasn’t synchronised and, without bookmarks, it was time-consuming to find important events. The combination of multiple terminal buildings and the Centralised Analogue Architecture resulted in bottlenecks and latency issues as all processing must pass through the centralised server. There was also no redundancy so if there was any failure in the system, the Control Room would no longer have the capability to view live or recorded video. Additionally, as the system was locked down to one manufacturer and the whole system had to be hardwired to the centralised server, there were very expensive expansion costs. Addressing security and scalability concerns New NVRs were specified to cope with the increase in camera streams and an extra NVR for redundancy and failoverThe required solution had multiple requirements to ensure that the existing issues were resolved and that the solution could scale with the planned expansion. With expansion planned to facilitate growing passenger numbers, an open IP based solution was specified to replace the existing analogue solution to improve situational awareness, provide scalability and integrate with a number of other systems operating in the airport. The architecture needed to limit bottlenecks, reduce latency issues, provide redundancy advantages and be scalable to allow for multiple new terminal buildings to be connected with ease. New HD cameras were specified to improve image quality and coverage, with a Video Wall required in order to view and manage the increase in video streams in the centralised Control Room. New large capacity NVRs were also specified to cope with the increase in camera streams and an extra NVR for redundancy and failover. Distributed Architecture reduces data bottlenecks A solution with Distributed Architecture was chosen as it solved multiple issues with the existing solution and facilitated future expansion without the need for a centralised server. Distributed Architecture allows data to be kept close to where it is produced or needed. When cameras, surveillance workstations, NVRs, alarm servers, integration gateways, all participate in a Distributed Architecture, data bottlenecks are minimised as all processing doesn’t need to pass through a centralised server. Distributed Architecture provides a truly unlimited and scalable solution that can easily accommodate the largest airports in the world. Enhancing situational awareness Distributed Architecture enables future expansion as it can support thousands of cameras, workstations and NVRsDistributed Architecture minimised the existing bottlenecks, reduced latency, and provided higher availability and faster access to data. It also allowed all ‘satellite’ security installations to be viewed in the centralised Control Room enhancing situational awareness. New HD cameras were installed and due to the scalability of Distributed Architecture, future cameras can easily be connected when needed. Furthermore, the scalability of Distributed Architecture enabled the airport to build new terminal buildings and connect with ease to the security solution when ready. Distributed Architecture enables planned future expansion as it can support thousands of cameras, workstations and NVRs, dramatically reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). The scalability of Distributed Architecture allows the airport to continue with planned expansion and add a single camera/NVR or a whole new terminal when needed.

Upon hearing Pablo Picasso’s famous praise of art’s ability to clear ‘the dust of everyday life’, one’s thoughts could easily turn to one of Arizona’s newest landmarks, the Mesa Arts Center. Set proudly amidst the dust of the Sonoran Desert, the Mesa Arts Center is a striking complex of buildings, art installations, and public throughways, offering a rich blend of visual impressions in glass, water, stone, and metal, with splashes of vibrant colour and metallic reflection. At more than 21,000 sq. feet, the award-winning $95 million campus is the largest and most comprehensive performing, visual and educational arts complex in Arizona, serving as a gathering point for the citizens of Mesa and region alike, seeking to enjoy the indoor and outdoor spaces, public events, classes, and art exhibitions. Ensuring safe, family friendly environment Ensuring a safe, family friendly environment is essential to fulfilling the role the Center plays as a gathering pointThe presence of an adjacent light rail station and hosting of multiple festivals throughout the year further increase traffic to, from, and through the open planned site at various hours of the day, and on weekends and even holidays. The heart of the Mesa Arts Center complex is a grand promenade that knits together all of its pieces, while providing places for group gatherings, performances, and quiet reflection, comfort and relaxation. Ensuring a safe, family friendly environment is essential to fulfilling the role the Center plays as a gathering point for all walks of life. In addition to welcoming visitors to the Center, the open configuration of the complex invites commuters coming off the nearby light rail line to stroll through on their way to and from the station, and draw loiterers, would-be vandals, and itinerant populations (attracted to the semi-secluded spaces created by outdoor art installations and the complex’s fountains and water elements). Surveillance system for crime prevention Particularly outside of traditional hours of operation, such factors can increase the risk of nuisance crimes, vandalism, and petty theft, and potentially more serious crimes against visitors and staff, without a vigilant and comprehensive security and surveillance operation. Additionally, complex spaces, varied materials, and water elements increase risk for incident and accident without proper prevention and/or prompt response. A technical solution with proven power, performance, and reliability was paramount to ensure protection of property While customary approaches to similar venues have typically relied heavily on a combination of CCTV and human security guards, the size and complexity of the Mesa Arts Center campus makes a traditional manned guarding solution, even when supported by a typical surveillance technology, both cost prohibitive and potentially inadequate. Protection of property and campus safety The Mesa Arts Center is an architectural showpiece and regional destination, requiring comprehensive surveillance at all hours, every day of the year, under highly variable conditions. A comprehensive technical solution with proven power, performance, and reliability was paramount to ensure protection of property and the safety of everyone on campus. The City of Mesa, who operates the Center, in partnership with Scottsdale’s Surveillance Acquisition Response Center (SARC) and IDIS technology, provided a mix of surveillance cameras and network video recorders (NVRs) able to meet the varied requirements of a campus housing multiple art galleries, studios, performance spaces, walkways and cut-throughs, and outdoor gathering spaces; and support SARC’s innovative approach to virtual guarding, which incorporates military, police, and intelligence best practices and personnel to enhance traditional remote monitoring models and outcomes. Using Direct IP NVRs and cameras SARC monitors use IDIS’s powerful, modular, and feature-rich VMS, IDIS Solution SuiteThe City of Mesa’s previous successes implementing SARC and IDIS technology at the Mesa Grande Cultural Park made the integration of technology and monitoring selected for the Mesa Arts Center a natural fit. Featuring multiple IDIS DirectIP [model number] network video recorders (NVRs), and IDIS Direct IP [model number] cameras, with [feature set], at the heart of a comprehensive security posture, SARC monitors use IDIS’s powerful, modular, and feature-rich VMS, IDIS Solution Suite, and their unique military, law enforcement, and intelligence-derived protocols and best practices to support on-site personnel and cover the campus comprehensively at night and during other off-hours. Additionally, the IDIS solution also seamlessly integrates with, recording and managing footage from other camera installations, demonstrating the IDIS dedication to eliminating the common frustrations and complexities of security systems. SARC’s virtual guard protection The implementation of SARC’s virtual guard protection and protocols to support on-site personnel, and the highly visible, but seamlessly integrated, presence of IDIS surveillance cameras, as part of a total IDIS solution, have contributed to the Mesa Arts Center’s reputation as one of the region’s most welcoming and inviting community spaces among the area’s art lovers, families, and neighbourhood’s workers (who regularly use the space without fear or discomfort as a gathering place for lunch or pathway to and from the local light rail station). The integrated on-site and virtual guarding professionals identify, deter, and document threats to the campus 24/7, the integrated on-site and virtual guarding professionals identify, deter, and document threats to the campus and those within it, using innovative surveillance application bringing together IDIS’s highest quality remote viewing and VMS offerings and SARC’s remote ‘voice down’ virtual guarding protocol, which informs those under surveillance, in real time, that they are being watched and should leave the property immediately or face consequences. Keeping people and property safe The successful implementation of this solution has placed the City of Mesa and Mesa Arts Center management at the forefront of innovation in keeping the people, places, and property under their protection safe and secure, and marked them as leaders in responsible stewardship of taxpayer, grant, and donor dollars, through the implementation of a system that provides more comprehensive coverage, measurably better outcomes, and enhanced visitor experiences 24/7, year-round for a fraction of the cost of previous manned guarding solutions.

Todd Burgess has an easy answer when asked why he’s used a March Networks video solution in his Quik-E Food convenience stores for more than 15 years. “It’s simple. The system is constantly saving us money.” Networking and IT In his role as Vice President of Quik-E Food Stores, Burgess oversees all the networking and IT requirements for the Lynchburg, Virginia business, which includes 13 convenience stores and gas stations, six car washes, a laundromat and a craft beer pub called The Filling Station known for its unique combination of ‘growlers, grub and gas’. Finding those incidents and stopping them quickly can directly impact Quik-E’s profitability While many things about the family-owned business have changed since its founding in 1973, the need to keep a close eye on each location’s inventory hasn’t. Like every retail organisation, Quik-E can cite numerous examples of theft, fraud and inventory errors that have cost the business thousands of dollars in lost revenue. Finding those incidents and stopping them quickly can directly impact Quik-E’s profitability, and that’s where its March Networks intelligent video solution really proves its worth. Video system helps curb thefts “I can’t tell you how many thefts I’ve caught with the help of our video system,” said Burgess. “I had a former employee just finish paying me back $13,000 they owed us in stolen goods, and we recently caught another employee who was stealing probably $50 worth of cigarettes each day.” “And just this morning I was reviewing video of a weekly delivery with one of our managers,” continued Burgess. “We were able to confirm that we’d been charged for $77 worth of gloves that we didn’t actually receive. The video showed the delivery guy come into the store and put everything down. Two boxes of gloves is easy to spot, so it was obvious that that portion of the delivery was missing.” Quik-E Food Stores has upgraded its video solution over the years and Burgess uses the Searchlight software regularly to check for any unusual or suspect transactions and review the data when an incident occurs New software capabilities Over the years, Quik-E Food Stores has upgraded its video solution to take advantage of better performance and new software capabilities. The March Networks video recorders first installed more than a decade ago have been slowly replaced by new generation 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs, able to support both analogue and IP cameras or a full complement of IP-only video. Hosted networking solution Burgess has also overseen the transition from older Visual Intelligence software to March Networks Command Enterprise software working with Integrated Technology Group (ITG), the retailer’s long-time systems integrator and March Networks certified partner. That’s in addition to moving the organisation from office servers to a hosted networking solution and switching from an existing point-of-sale (POS) system to a new Gilbarco Passport POS solution. “We’ve been proactive about upgrading our IT infrastructure over the last few years, and our video system has always come back online, except in one instance where we couldn’t get the cameras connected again in a couple of locations,” said Burgess. “March Networks Tech Support was wonderful. They managed to diagnose the issue, which wasn’t related to the video products in the end. They were just a big help.” March Networks Searchlight™ Burgess says that he’s a satisfied customer and he won’t be looking for another video solution anytime soon Quik-E is also using March Networks Searchlight™ for retail, a software application that integrates surveillance video with the retailer’s POS transaction data to provide powerful search and investigation tools. Burgess uses the Searchlight software regularly to check for any unusual or suspect transactions and review the data when an incident occurs. “I use Searchlight primarily to look for voids and cancellations, or high dollar value transactions,” said Burgess. “We actually just used it to help catch a manager who probably stole thousands of dollars from us. I knew I was short in inventory, so I pulled up the video and transaction data to see if things were being rung up. It was clear they were not and we had the evidence to prove it. Now we’ll use that evidence to hopefully recoup our losses.” Satisfied customer Ultimately, Burgess says that he’s a satisfied customer and he won’t be looking for another video solution anytime soon. “I think it’s one of the best video surveillance systems on the market. March Networks has been good to me over the years and I’m a very happy customer.”

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.”

The year ahead holds endless promise for the physical security industry, and much of that future will be determined by which technologies the industry embraces. The menu of possibilities is long – from artificial intelligence to the Internet of Things to the cloud and much more – and each technology trend has the potential to transform the market in its own way. We tapped into the collective expertise of our Expert Panel Roundtable to answer this question: What technology trend will have the biggest impact on the security market in 2019?

They say that every choice has a cost. It's a basic principle that, economically speaking, nothing is free. If it doesn't cost actual money, it may be expensive in terms of time, attention and/or effort. These are interesting observations to keep in mind as one peruses the various "free" video management system (VMS) offerings available on the market. Some are provided by camera companies to unify their products into a "system", even if it's a small one. Other free VMS offerings are entry-level versions offered by software companies with the intent of the customer upgrading later to a paid version. For more insights, we asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the value of “free” video management systems (VMSs) and how can a customer decide whether “free” is the right price for them?

In the analogue era, videotape was the storage media of choice for CCTV systems. Since the advent of digital video, and of IP-based systems, a variety of other storage formats have come to the fore, including hard drives, flash drives, SD cards and others. Now we are in the age of the cloud, which offers new opportunities to store vast amounts of video and presents challenges such as bandwidth and cybersecurity. For a current perspective on storage, we asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: How are new developments in video storage impacting the video surveillance market?