Network Video Recorders

Senstar, a provider of video management and perimeter intrusion detection solutions, is pleased to announce the release of Senstar Symphony 7.3. The award-winning Symphony delivers an all-in-one solution for video, security, and information management. Symphony works with cameras from all major manufacturers, scales to deployments of any size, and is easy to use and configure. With built-in support for video analytics, perimeter intrusion detection sensors, and access control, Symphony is a highly versatile and cost-effective video surveillance platform. "With Symphony 7.3, Senstar is building on the software’s success as a premier platform allowing businesses to aggregate data into actionable information," said Product Manager Andrew Smedley. Better user experience Symphony Windows® client optimised for high resolution displays including 4K 40% improved response time to display live video 50% improved video switching time Improved alarm notification Face Recognition updated with intelligent real-time algorithms to enhance accuracy and security Automatic License Plate Recognition updated to improve accuracy in busy and/or noisy scenes Left and Removed Item Detection updated to improve accuracy in scenes with fluctuating or reflected lighting Expanded bi-directional integrations Rule engine can be configured to conditionally trigger outputs in Senstar perimeter intrusion detection products, such as controlling Senstar LM100 lighting intensity Rule engine can be configured to conditionally trigger actions, such as locking or unlocking a door in Symphony Access Control Senstar Symphony 7.3 is available worldwide in Arabic, Chinese (Simplified), English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish and Turkish. Senstar hardware appliances, such as the R-Series Network Video Recorder, can be upgraded to the latest version with a valid maintenance agreement.

The provider of purpose-built video surveillance recording appliances, BCDVideo, announces the launch of a new line of harsh environment, rail, and in-vehicle servers. Their new product line delivers quality performance in diverse environments with a long product life to customers with complex requirements worldwide. BCDVideo’s new line of Harsh Environment Video Recording Servers features Intel® Core™ Processors, coupled with up to 10 TB of max storage. The video servers include a fanless design that performs in temperatures between -14°F and +131°F and has additional options such as cell, GPS, and WiFi modules. Innovative video surveillance recording products We are excited to expand BCDVideo’s innovative video surveillance recording products" The Harsh Environment Video line also includes a 3-year advanced replacement warranty that lowers the total cost of ownership to ensure project success. “We are excited to expand BCDVideo’s innovative video surveillance recording products to new customers working in harsh environments around the globe. With our latest product line of harsh environment, rail, and in-vehicle servers, clients receive peak performance, long lifespans, and cutting-edge technology, no matter where they work.” said Tom Larson, Chief Technology Officer. Advanced replacement warranty The RAIL Certified Servers feature Intel® Core™ Processors, extended temperature, and up to 20TB of storage. The servers are certified with both EN50155 as well as MIL-STD-810G. Each model supports cell, GPS, and WiFi modules, with a 3-year advanced replacement warranty. The In-Vehicle Servers feature Intel® Core™ Processors, up to 16 POE Ports and up to 20TB of max storage. The in-vehicle servers support vibrations up to environmental standards (IEC) 60068-2-64, as well as temperatures from -40° to +158°F. A 3-year advanced replacement warranty is included to lower the overall cost of ownership.

Matrix, a manufacturer and provider of Telecom and Security solutions, is participating in the SICUREZZA 2019 to be held in Fiera Milano, Rho, Italy from 13th - 15th November 2019. Matrix will be showcasing its Telecom and IP Video Surveillance solutions at the event. Matrix is known for offering value driven solutions catering to diverse, complex applications especially for the enterprise sector. In the event Matrix will showcase futuristic technologies from the Telecom and security domain. At the event, Matrix will highlight ETERNITY NENX, newly launched Unified Communication Platform for SOHO and SMB. Increasing number of Small and Medium organisations are migrating to leverage benefits of IP, for such applications, Matrix ETERNITY NENX is a perfect fit. Matrix Telecom domain will also be showcasing its Comprehensive Telecom Solutions which includes IP-PBX, Communication Endpoints, Media Gateways, Mobile Application and much more. Network Video Recorders Matrix Comsec will showcase Professional Series IP Cameras powered with Exmor technology Along with that, Matrix Hospitality solution which is specifically designed to enhance guest experience at Hotels will also be one of the major highlights. Hotel staff can enhance guest experience and improve staff productivity with hospitality features, front desk, PMS integration, staff mobility extensions and voicemail with personalised greetings. Matrix SATATYA is an IP Video Surveillance solutions portfolio which includes Network Video Recorders (NVRs), IP Cameras and Centralised Video Management System. Matrix SATATYA is positioned as an enterprise grade solution. Matrix Comsec will showcase Professional Series IP Cameras powered with Sony STARVIS series sensors and Exmor technology. This technology provides the camera an edge over others in terms of exceptional low light performance, consistent image quality during varying light conditions (True WDR), better bandwidth optimisation and various other features. Matrix SATATYA also offers centralised video surveillance with add-on applications such as Command & Control, Parking Management, Weighbridge Integration and Cognitive Response Engine. Flexible architecture SATATYA’s flexible architecture and vast range of functions-features are designed to cater diverse industries including BFSI, retail, services, hospitality, manufacturing, transport, ports and logistics, research laboratories, data centers, defense and government. Talk to the solution experts to know more about these unique solutions by visiting Matrix at Fiera Milano, Rho , Italy  Stall No : E28, Hall - 7P from 13th - 15th November 2019 to discuss requirements and offer better solutions.

Micron Technology, Inc., unveiled the world’s highest-capacity industrial microSD card — Micron® i300 1TB3 microSDXC UHS-I — to address the edge storage needs of the video surveillance market and other industrial applications. The new Micron® i300 1TB microSD card is based on Micron’s advanced 96-layer 3D quad-level cell (QLC) NAND technology, now making it cheaper for small- to medium-sized deployments to have primary storage in the camera compared to a centralised storage architecture. The i300 microSD card enables users of video surveillance systems to capture and store more than three months of high-quality video footage on-device and at the edge. Cloud-based service models “Micron’s i300 industrial-grade microSD cards for edge storage open the possibility for a broad range of video surveillance as a service deployments that no longer require local network video recorders,” said Amit Gattani, senior director of Segment Marketing in Micron’s Embedded Business Unit. “Micron’s 96-layer 3D QLC NAND is instrumental in helping us deliver 1TB of storage in a microSD form factor and at a breakthrough price point to accelerate edge storage and cloud-based service models.” Users of video surveillance systems can now store large amounts of video footage on-device VSaaS systems are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence-based and higher-resolution cameras that require more storage at the edge. The Micron i300 1TB microSDXC card allows 24/7 continuous capture and storage of up to 1TBof high-quality video in the camera. Users of video surveillance systems can now store large amounts of video footage on-device, opening a broader set of uses for cloud-managed solutions. Intelligence at the Edge “Demand for commercial surveillance cameras continues to grow at a rapid pace,” said Jeff Janukowicz, research vice president at International Data Corporation (IDC). “Smart cameras, artificial intelligence, machine learning and threat detection are being driven to the edge for real-time responsiveness, making Micron’s 1TB microSD card an invaluable solution for differentiation and innovation.” The VSaaS market is projected to reach $6 billion in 2022, corresponding to a growth of 22% compound annual growth rate between 2017 and 2022.4 The rising adoption of VSaaS by small to medium businesses and enterprises is attributed to lower overhead costs achieved through ease of installation and elimination of the need for on-site NVRs and DVRs. The ability to store large video footage files in the camera and at the edge reduces the demand for network bandwidth and expenditure associated with continuous cloud storage. Cloud-based implementation models These savings contribute to lowering the overall cost of ownership for businesses while bringing flexibility and scalability associated with cloud-based implementation models. Micron’s microSD portfolio is designed to endure harsh environments in which surveillance systems are deployed "The video surveillance market is quickly shifting toward hybrid cloud architectures that store video footage on-camera, allowing secure access via cloud-based software,” said Raj Misra, director of Hardware Engineering at Verkada. "Enterprise customers are choosing hybrid cloud offerings to reduce operational costs, simplify installation and management, and gain from powerful video analytics. Micron extending its range of reliable industrial-grade microSD cards to 1TB enables us to provide our customers with industry-leading data retention, security and video resolution options at very cost-effective price points." Micron’s industrial-grade microSD portfolio is designed to endure the harsh environments in which surveillance systems are deployed. Flexibility, scalability and maintenance efficiency The Micron i300 1TB microSDXC card minimises frame drops in a 24/7, 30 frames per second (FPS) recording environment, offering twice the reliability of hard disk drives at 2 million hours mean time to failure. The card features a smart tool for monitoring the health of devices. “VIVOTEK has launched a series of edge-computing network cameras and successfully deployed Micron’s high-quality industrial-grade microSD cards,” said Shengfu Cheng, director of Marketing and Product Development Division, VIVOTEK Inc. "Micron’s portfolio of industrial microSD cards up to 1TB equips us to deliver greater flexibility, scalability and maintenance efficiency to our customers, all of which contribute to a better return on investment.” The Micron i300 microSDXC UHS-I card is offered in 128GB to 1TB capacities, which are available for ordering. The entire industrial-grade portfolio includes capacities ranging from 32GB to 1TB.

IDIS has teamed up with integration partner ISD Tech to support the Men’s Shed community group in Church Crookham and Fleet with the donation of a state-of-the-art video monitoring solution. The donation is part of the IDIS ‘Create a Better World” campaign that has run on company’s social media channels since the start of the year to support a global commitment to enhance safety and security for social welfare projects and non-profit community organisations. The system, supplied and installed for free, is protecting a fully equipped new workshop, built with National Lottery funding and opened on the 22nd September 2019. IDIS NVRs, IP bullet cameras and domes with IR capability, now provide 24/7 video coverage of the new facility, inside and out, helping to protect high value power tools and other equipment. “The workshop is in quite a secluded location and it houses high value items, so it needs watching over out-of-hours,” explains Nicky Stokes, MD of ISD Tech. Video solution “We were delighted to provide this IDIS video solution to enable the volunteers who manage the site to receive alerts on their phones, and to view footage, if ever there’s an attempted intrusion or problem with vandalism.” The Church Crookham and Fleet Men’s Shed, is one of more than 520 across the UK helping to reduce isolation, particularly among older men, and supporting them as they contribute their knowledge and practical skills to local good causes – everything from building library shelves for primary schools, to making bird boxes for conservation groups, says Chairman Alan Walker. Research has warned about the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on health and wellbeing “We have 25 regularly active ‘shedders’ meeting twice a week and, as that number grows, we’ll increase the times that our workshop’ is open. Now, instead of just being old blokes tinkering away in isolation, we can have a joke and work together – in many ways it replicates the working environment." For a long time, research has warned about the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on health and wellbeing, with millions of people reporting feeling lonely on a daily basis. Video surveillance equipment Men’s Sheds have emerged as a practical way of tackling the problem, particularly for older men who find it more difficult to build social connections – although the organisation welcomes members of all ages and genders. Group members meet to work on projects – fixing things, making things – to share tips and simply to enjoy each other’s company. Alan Walker, says more than 45 projects have already been completed by the group, and thanks to the IDIS video solution, both the ongoing work and the tools can be stored safely out-of-hours while the workshop is unoccupied. IDIS is Korea’s pioneer in-country video surveillance equipment manufacturer and, as it continues to expand in markets globally, the company is committed to supporting community initiatives and charity work, particularly efforts focused on mental health and wellbeing. “We were really pleased to help Men’s Shed with our video technology,” explains Jamie Barnfield, Sales Director, IDIS Europe. "This is a great community group, not only concerned with the wellbeing of their own members but also supporting the wider community around them with the projects they work on.” Surveillance technology James Min, Managing Director, IDIS Europe, noted: “Since IDIS was founded over two decades ago our corporate mission has been to develop technology that makes the world a safer and more secure place. And while we have witnessed giant leaps forward in surveillance technology, our ‘Create a Better World’ campaign is leveraging those innovations to benefit charitable causes that are close to the hearts of local staff as well as close to our facilities around the world.”

The Palms Shopping Mall (Lekki Shoprite) is a very famous shopping center located in the downtown area of Lagos’s Victoria Island in Nigeria. This large shopping and entertainment hub hosts hundreds of shops, and regularly attracts thousands of people. Naturally, such a busy area for shopping, commerce, and congregating, in a high-density city with tremendous amounts of foot-traffic, requires serious security at all times. The previous system was aging and in need of improvement. Hence, local systems integrator Totalnet Technologies Services Limited was asked to map out the specifications, and design an advanced system for the mall. They chose Hikvision’s CCTV surveillance products for a unified solution and to improve the overall quality of the previous one. The cameras installed included several of Hikvision’s advanced models designed for more than just retail security – they come equipped with smart features that offer insights into business and management data to add value to the safety they offer. IP cameras for public places Hikvision’s product was an ideal choice for the project after comparing products by different manufacturers" Hikvision provided 50 smart IP cameras for the security in public places. But that is only the beginning – Hikvision also provided an ANPR solution for the entrances puand exits, people counting technology for the main entrance, access control devices, and even more. This solution has helped secure the shopping center, decreasing the theft incidents and increasing the business operation efficiency. “Hikvision’s product was an ideal choice for the project after comparing different products by different manufacturers. They are wholly reliable with 99.99% uptime which makes our service reliable and our customers happy.” Kolade Kayode  - C.R.O. Totalnet Technologies Services Limited. Hikvision’s 3 MP Smart IP Vandal-proof Bullet Camera from its Ultra Series (model no. DS-2CD4635F-IZ), was chosen for outdoor settings. With its vandal-proof and weatherproof ratings, and excellent 3 Megapixel imaging day and night, it was the ideal choice Motorised lens with smart focus With its vandal-proof and weatherproof ratings, and excellent 3 Megapixel imaging day and night, it was the ideal choice. In addition to its performance and durable housing, the camera also features on-board recording in case the network fails, with support for 128 GB of SD card storage. The 2 MP Low-Light Smart Camera (model no. DS-2CD4126FWD-IZS), also part of Hikvision’s Ultra Series, features a smaller dome housing for inconspicuous indoor use. This small-but-powerful unit is ready to capture critical imaging and render clear, sharp details for security staff and law enforcement when it’s needed most. Future plans to upgrade and expand the system include introducing Artificial Intelligence for advanced functionality A 2 MP Low-Light Smart Camera in bullet housing (model no. DS-2CD4A26FWD-IZS) was chosen for capturing images and video on the main roadways. Its 1/1.8” Progressive Scan CMOS sensor, full HD 1080p video rendering, and 50-meter IR range made it a trustworthy component in this critical region. Beyond its high-performance imaging technologies, this camera also features IP67 weather protection, a motorised lens with smart focus. Speed limit detection system Last but not least, Hikvision’s Dual-Lens People Counting Camera (model no. iDS-2CD6810F/C) is the go-to choice for people counting, and the Shoprite shopping center is making good use of it – as are scores of businesses around the world. Supporting real-time people entering, exiting, and passing by data, as well as statistical traffic reports based on configurable time intervals (day/week/month/year), this camera brings a new level of intelligence to decision-makers in consumer businesses. Smart and powerful, this people-counting unit stores data in its flash memory, while the smart codec, high-bandwidth efficiency, low time delay, and optimised bit rate make it a camera that cannot be overlooked for an installation like this one. The security system is being operated 24 hours a day. Future plans to upgrade and expand the system include introducing Artificial Intelligence for advanced, automated security functionality, as well as a speed limit detection system for the transportation and parking areas.

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.

Honeywell Commercial Security is among the companies working to develop security systems that are more proactive than reactive. “Our biggest opportunity moving forward is the ability to have security solutions that do a better job of detecting and predicting threats,” says Tim Baker, Global Marketing Director, Honeywell Commercial Security. Greater use of analytics and intelligence can reduce human error and simplify processes by providing a more unified view for greater situational awareness. Artificial intelligence and deep learning “We’re reaching a maturity level in terms of algorithms and hardware to drive new capabilities in a cost-effective way,” he says. Baker sees a continuing interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning in the physical security market, used in video analytics and also for intrusion and access control. "We have challenged ourselves to move from reactive solutions to develop a set of proactive solutions that determine potential security threats before they happen,” he says. An overarching theme is the need to focus operator attention on “what matters” rather than requiring operators to keep track of the growing number of sensors in newer systems. A remaining hurdle is to streamline the deployment of analytics systems, which can require expensive customisation during the commissioning phase.  Credential-enabled access control reader The reader can support any card format and also enables “frictionless” access control That’s where Honeywell is investing and focusing its attention, seeking when possible to “pre-teach” algorithms based on data gleaned from a large installed base. Fortunately, there will be plenty of data from a growing variety of sites to build from. Honeywell offers a full ecosystem built around enterprise security needs and a second ecosystem built around the needs of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).  In the enterprise space, the trend is toward smarter edge devices, such as Honeywell’s OmniAssure Touch, a mobile credential-enabled access control reader. The reader can support any card format and also enables “frictionless” access control. A user can gain access by touching the reader, with no need to take his or her smart phone (which has the credential) out of their pocket. The reader is fully backwards compatible, which is a Honeywell hallmark. Honeywell’s OmniAssure Touch can support any card format and also enables “frictionless” access control. Designed to be cloud-enabled On the enterprise software side, Honeywell has invested in further development of their Pro-Watch access control system and MAXPRO VMS (video management system), tying them together into a single security console, along with intrusion and other systems such as human resources (HR) data. For the SMB market, Honeywell is building and expanding their MAXPRO Cloud system. As existing hardware has evolved to be cloud-enabled, the company has also been introducing new control products that are designed from the ground up to be cloud-enabled. Honeywell’s biggest vertical markets include banking, healthcare, gaming, energy infrastructure and airports The new MAXPRO Intrusion system, which can be configured over the cloud, will be introduced in the first quarter. MAXPRO Access, to be introduced in late November, can be deployed using an embedded web interface, a cloud interface, or as an on-premise solution. On the NVR side, an embedded NVR works alongside Honeywell’s new 30 Series video cameras, providing secure and encrypted end-to-end connection. Networked security system A challenge for Honeywell is to keep up with broader trends happening in the industry, whether geopolitical (e.g., relations between China and the United States) or regulatory such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Baker acknowledges an industry-wide increase in awareness about cyber security, driven largely by the enterprise market. IT departments are getting more involved in the purchasing decision; indeed, the chief information officer (CIO) is often the ultimate decision-maker. In response, Honeywell is emphasising “cyber security by design” from the beginning to the end of a project. Also, they are using white-hat hackers to test products before they are released into a live environment. “We are doing everything we can to make sure products are cyber secure,” says Baker. Honeywell’s biggest vertical markets include banking, pharmaceutical, healthcare, gaming, energy infrastructure and airports. NDAA-compliant video cameras Compliance is a common thread throughout the verticals. Honeywell sells to the government mostly in the access control and intrusion space and built around their Vindicator networked security system. (They also introduced the line of NDAA-compliant video cameras, made in Taiwan, at the recent GSX show.)

Qumulex is a new startup with a mission to provide physical security integrators a transition path to embrace the technology of the cloud and a subscription-based business model. Qumulex’s products seek to provide capabilities to embrace the cloud without an integrator having to turn their back completely on the ‘transactional revenue’ of installing new systems. As the transition happens, Qumulex offers a product line that supports any mix of systems from on-premises to the cloud. The flexible deployment model – enabling a cloud installation, an on-premise installation or any combination – is one of the ways Qumulex seeks to differentiate itself in the market. Installing fully on-premise system The Qumulex cloud-based platform uses a gateway device located on-premises to which local cameras are connected The system is designed so that an integrator can install a fully on-premise system and then later ‘flip a switch’ and transition to a cloud model, says Tom Buckley, VP Sales and Marketing. The Qumulex initial 1.0 system launch is currently entering its final beta test. Full commercial availability is expected in the first quarter of 2020, which the company will highlight in a bigger 20x20 booth at ISC West next year. The Qumulex cloud-based platform uses a gateway device located on-premises to which local cameras are connected. Ensuring cybersecurity, the gateway provides a ‘firewall’ of sorts to avoid any cybersecurity threat from entering an enterprise through a vulnerable IP camera. The system is designed to be ‘cloud-agnostic’ and to work with any public or private cloud, using Docker software and ‘containers,’ a standard unit of software that packages code and all its dependencies so an application runs quickly and reliably from one computing environment to another. At launch, the Qumulex system will use the Google cloud. Greater situational awareness The open platform approach will enable users to assemble best-of-breed solutions Another point of differentiation for the new platform is a unified access control and video surveillance environment – both are part of the same program. Access control can drive video events and vice versa for greater situational awareness. A unified system avoids having to integrate separate systems. A big emphasis for Qumulex is ease of use. They have designed the user interface to be as simple and intuitive as possible, using consumer-oriented systems such as Nest and the Ring Doorbell as a model of simplicity. Finally, the open platform approach will enable users to assemble best-of-breed solutions. Keeping it simple, the system offers native integration with only the major camera manufacturers that represent most of the market: Axis, Hanwha, Arecont, Panasonic, Vivotek and Sony. Longer-term storage Other cameras can be included using the ONVIF interface. On the access control side, the system will initially be compatible with Axis door controllers, Allegion wireless door locks and ASSA ABLOY Aperio wireless door locks. Future versions of the software will seek to integrate HID Edge and Vertx and eventually Mercury panels. The gateway device may incorporate only a solid-state drive (SSD) for buffering Qumulex is taking a ‘mobile-first’ approach. The software is designed as a ‘progressive web app,’ which means is it is adaptable to – and fully functioning in – any smart phone, mobile device, laptop, or on a desktop computer with multiple monitors. The gateway device may incorporate only a solid-state drive (SSD) for buffering, or as many hard drives as the customer wants for storage. Short-term storage is available in the cloud, but local hard drives may be used for longer-term storage which can get expensive given the monthly fees of cloud storage. Using third-party server To manage the variety of scenarios, Qumulex will offer a line of gateways and recorders, or a customer can use a third-party server along with Qumulex, which is an open system. Qumulex will use a manufacturer’s representative sales model and has already signed up 11 rep firms covering the United States (the initial target of the launch). The company has been spreading the word among integrators, too, first at the ISC West show last spring, when 98 integrators saw demonstrations of the system at a suite in the Palazzo. Another 48 integrators saw the system at ESX in Indianapolis in June. At the recent GSX show in Chicago, Qumulex had a booth on the show floor, where they scanned 450 badges that yielded 176 unique integrators. Entering the physical security market Qumulex just closed a second round of funding, which does not include any ‘institutional’ money Buckley estimates there are around 10,000 total security integrators in the United States that sell products similar to theirs at their price point. They are working to build their database to reach out to those integrators. (Exacq had more than 4,500 dealer/integrators before it was sold to Tyco/Johnson Controls.) Qumulex is the third company to enter the physical security market by the same team that launched two other successful startups in the last 20 years: Exacq Technologies (sold to Tyco in 2013) and Integral Technologies (sold to Andover Controls in 2000). Both previous companies were built around a need to help the integrator community transition to newer technologies. Qumulex just closed a second round of funding, which does not include any ‘institutional’ money. The first round of investment involved only the founders, and the second round added some ‘angel’ investors to the mix. The funding allows more flexibility and control over the company’s timeline and the evolution of the product’s feature set, free of outside mandates, says Buckley.

The healthcare market is rife with opportunity for security systems integrators. Hospitals have a continuous need for security, to update their systems, to make repairs, says David Alessandrini, Vice President, Pasek Corp., a systems integrator. “It’s cyclical. Funding for large projects might span one to two years, and then they go into a maintenance mode. Departments are changing constantly, and they need us to maintain the equipment to make sure it’s operating to its full potential.” The experience of Pasek Corp. is typical of the opportunities available for security integrator companies in the healthcare vertical. A single large hospital system can supply a dependable ongoing source of revenue to integrator companies, says Alessandrini. Hospitals are “usually large enough to provide enough work for several people for an extended length of time.”  Healthcare customers in Pasek’s service area around Boston provide the potential for plenty of work. “We have four major hospitals, each with in excess of 250 card readers and 200 cameras, in the Boston area,” Alessandrini says. One appeal of the healthcare market for North Carolina Sound, an integrator covering central North Carolina, is the breadth of possible equipment they can sell into the healthcare market, including access control and video, of course, but also other technologies, such as audio-video systems in a dining room. North Carolina Sound has also installed sound masking in some areas with waiting rooms to protect private patient information from being overheard. Locking systems on pharmaceutical doors are another opportunity. Data capture form to appear here! IP based networked video systems A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network Among North Carolina Sound’s customers is Wayne Memorial Hospital, Goldsboro, N.C., which uses about 340 video cameras, with 80 percent or more of them converted to IP. The hospital is replacing analogue with IP cameras as budget allows, building network infrastructure to support the system. The healthcare market tends to have a long sales cycle; in general, sales don’t happen overnight or even within a month or two. In fact, the period between an initial meeting with a healthcare facility and installation of a system could stretch to a year or longer. A lot happens during that time. Healthcare systems involve extensive planning, engineering, and meetings among various departments. Physical security systems that involve the information technology (IT) department, as do most systems today, can be especially complex. Installation of networked video systems based on Internet protocol (IP) requires deep and probing discussions with the IT team about how a system fits into the facility’s network infrastructure. A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network. Compatible with the network They must vet the technology to ensure the devices and solutions will be compatible with the network, and must sign off on technology choices. And even more important is determining if the security system will adhere to cyber security requirements of the facility. A complete solution that integrates nearly any system that lives on or uses a facility’s network is ultimately what the healthcare vertical is moving toward, says Jason Ouellette, General Manager – Enterprise Access Control & Video, Johnson Controls. Healthcare security professionals are early adopters of technology, implementing the best technology available” “We are hearing more and more from customers across industries that they want to be able to use their security systems and devices for more than just security: they want added value,” says Ouellette. Many want to use access control, video surveillance and other data sources to assess their business operations and/or workflows with the goal of improving efficiency. Upgrade cost-effectively Historically, three factors have prevented many organisations from moving forward with new technologies: lack of money, proprietary systems, and the need to “rip and replace” large parts of the installed systems, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. "Today, while funding is almost always a limiting factor at some level, the progression of industry standards and ‘open’ systems has made a big positive impact on the ability of organisations to upgrade cost-effectively,” he says. Despite any obstacles, healthcare customers generally welcome new innovations. “I would say healthcare security professionals in general are early adopters of technology and like to implement the best technology available,” says Jim Stankevich, Global Manager – Healthcare Security, Johnson Controls/Tyco Security Products. “For most, rapid implementation is limited by budgets and available funding." Read parts one and three of our heathcare mini series here and here.

The experience of high-quality, high-performance automotive engineering and the sleek lines and signature beauty of luxury auto brands like Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, and more are investments worth protecting. When damage to these vehicles occurs and body work is required, only the work of attentive, highly trained, and craftsman technicians owners can trust, will do. Phoenix-area Autobahn Collision serves the region’s owners of luxury European automobiles with precisely such expertise they can trust, and when the time came to upgrade the premier body shop’s security infrastructure, they looked for a surveillance solution able to meet the same high standards of performance they meet every day. Seamless Integration  Autobahn Collision provides customers with a service and repair experience, well-crafted to be as high-end, responsive, and trustworthy as the luxury vehicles they work on. The body shop’s expectations were no less for their surveillance solution, which needed to seamlessly integrate new and existing technologies in a way that was both easy to use and maintain, allowing for monitoring and documentation, as needed, without distracting from the team members core priority: optimising customer experiences and quality body work for their customers. Scottsdale based integrator SARC Monitoring answered Autobahn’s call with an upgraded virtual guarding solution DirectIP NVR Surveillance Solution Scottsdale based integrator SARC Monitoring answered Autobahn’s call with an upgraded virtual guarding solution with IDIS DirectIP network video recorders (NVRs) at the heart, addressing all issues of compatibility and operational concerns. IDIS NVRs, specifically designed to reduce (if not eliminate) compatibility issues, support multiple industry standards and 3rd party protocols. At Autobahn Collision, SARC integrated multiple IDIS DR-8364(F) NVRs in designing a user-friendly surveillance solution that enhanced and fully supporting the shop’s existing IP camera infrastructure. IDIS DR-8364(F) series of NVRs The IDIS DR-8364(F) series of NVRs have multiple features that enhance the overall ease-of-use and maintainability. The DR-8364(F) supports 64 IP channels of 4K UHD with a maximum incoming throughput of 900Mbps, which means fewer NVRs are needed to support a large installation of cameras. Fewer devices reduce the overall complexity of any solution, by definition, and mean less time spent on installation and maintenance. The intuitive DR-8364(F) NVR interface, common to all IDIS products, also means that training and transition investment is minimised. IDIS’s license free software model, which also includes free software updates, further minimises the cost and complexity of owning and maintaining an IDIS solution. Enhanced protection for luxury vehicles The upgraded solution allows Autobahn Collision and a team of remote monitors to keep the premises—and the concentration of luxury vehicles, parts, and accessories—secure 24 hours a day / 7 days a week, enabled by the enhanced recording, storage, and failover benefits of the IDIS DirectIP NVRs and IDIS’s modular IDIS Solution Suite VMS. Data can be transferred on existing cabling and saved in existing storage space The IDIS DirectIP DR-8364 NVR’s support for H.265 with IDIS Intelligent Codec and Motion Adaptive Transmission (MAT) reduces the need for additional bandwidth and storage upgrades, providing up to a 90% reduction in both bandwidth and storage utilisation. IDIS SmartFailover Additional data can be transferred on existing cabling and saved in existing storage space. Multi-layered data protection through IDIS SmartFailover features include RAID 5 storage redundancy, dual power supply redundancy, and NVR failover, which provides support for a standby NVR that continually monitors the primary NVR (taking over recording if the primary hardware fails). IDIS SmartFailover ensures that data integrity and system operation are automatically monitored and maintained, simplifying system support and maintenance tasks. Real-time monitoring, playback and review, high-quality imagery for reference and documentation purposes, and more are now seamlessly empowered by the new system, allowing Autobahn to continue doing what it does best of all, meeting and exceeding the needs of the region’s most discerning vehicle owners.

March Networks, a video security and video-based business intelligence provider, announces that the rapidly growing U.S. convenience store chain Yesway has selected its Searchlight for Retail solution for advanced video surveillance and analytics. Yesway is currently deploying March Networks Searchlight for Retail in 136 locations across Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas, Nebraska, New Mexico, South Dakota and Wyoming. The c-store chain, which is operated by an affiliate of Brookwood Financial Partners, LLC, is expanding across the U.S. and plans to standardise on March Networks as it moves forward. Asset protection investigations Brandon Pohlman, Yesway Safety & Asset Protection Manager, said the company selected Searchlight for its scalability and centralised management features as well as its powerful exception-based reporting capabilities. Through its combination of high-quality video surveillance, point-of-sale (POS) transaction data and analytics, Searchlight helps Yesway visually monitor operations at all of its sites and quickly analyse transaction data for anomalies. “Having our video surveillance, POS data and analytics together on one easy-to-use platform is a huge advantage for Yesway,” said Pohlman. Using the software, the c-store can rapidly search and sort all of its transactions and match them with corresponding video clips. The company can also group higher-risk transaction types like refunds and assign risk factors to its stores based on the number of these transactions. “The insights uncovered by Searchlight have helped Yesway reduce its shrink levels and improve the speed and efficiency of asset protection investigations,” Pohlman said. Advanced system management software Yesway is also deploying March Networks 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs for reliable video recording In addition to asset protection, Searchlight also delivers valuable business intelligence through the integration of video analytics including people counting, queue length and dwell time. Several different Yesway departments use Searchlight’s information to monitor operations, merchandising and customer service across the organisation. Iverify, a full-service interactive security company and March Networks certified partner, managed the Yesway installation. Marty Brakel, Iverify National Account Manager, said March Networks’ products are ideal for the c-store market. “March Networks Searchlight is a professional-grade solution for customers like Yesway that need robust loss prevention tools and the ability to manage hundreds of locations simultaneously,” said Brakel. In addition to Searchlight, Yesway is also deploying March Networks 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs for reliable video recording, and March Networks SE2 Series IP Cameras for high-quality video capture. It is managing the solution with March Networks Command Enterprise, advanced system management software that simplifies multi-site video management. Improve customer satisfaction “With March Networks’ complete solution for c-stores, organisations like Yesway can cut losses and improve customer satisfaction as well as operational efficiency,” said Net Payne, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, March Networks. "Because Searchlight is also available as a hosted service, c-stores and other retailers can enjoy all the benefits of this powerful solution for a low monthly fee. They can have peace of mind knowing that March Networks’ trained professionals are monitoring and maintaining the health of the video system on their behalf.”

Bluebird House is a specialist UK inpatient facility, providing treatment and care for young people with complex mental health problems which mean they pose a risk to themselves or others. Run by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, the centre also houses adolescents detained under the Mental Health Act, so the highest standards of care, protection and security are required. As part of a wider review of security and safety across the trust, Bluebird House was earmarked for a comprehensive video surveillance upgrade and IDIS technology was chosen as the best-fit for this major project. Providing comprehensive coverage All IDIS equipment uses true plug-and-play set up, which minimises disruption and disturbance to patients Galeco engineers installed 110 IDIS 12MP Super Fisheye cameras in communal and therapeutic areas inside the facility and over 40 bullets and 13 PTZ cameras cover the exterior. All the cameras are connected to six 32-channel NVRs and managed via IDIS Center video management software (VMS). All IDIS equipment uses true plug-and-play set up, which minimises disruption and disturbance to patients, while protection against gaps in footage is provided by IDIS Smart Failover ensuring 24/7 continued recording even during network instability or drop-out. Implemented across three secure wards and two high care units, the 12MP IR Super Fisheyes provide comprehensive coverage much more affordably than two or more fixed lens cameras. Advanced IDIS video capture technology delivers complete high-definition scene coverage in all lighting conditions and allows staff to de-warp in live view as well as playback. Automatic object detection The 5MP bullet cameras, deployed around the building exteriors provide coverage of gardens, courtyards and car parks. IR LED that allows night-time image capture at distances up to 30m and includes intelligent functions such as active tampering alarms and trip zones and will notify the security team to any breach. Each camera is set to perform virtual guard tours at specific times throughout the day and night IDIS 31x Zoom IR PTZ cameras are installed along the perimeter to provide clear night-time image capture at distances up to 200m. Each camera is set to perform virtual guard tours at specific times throughout the day and night. Featuring automatic object detection, the cameras recognise and automatically track objects, people or cars capturing useful footage and alert operators of any suspicious activity. To meet patient privacy requirements, access to live and recorded footage, is limited to staff according to their ward and role. Access to advanced features and functionality Staff can only view and review footage from their area of responsibility at designated monitoring stations using specialist IDIS monitors designed for high-performance surveillance operations. To meet future requirements, the new IDIS solution can be linked to the trust’s local area networks (LANs) without increasing cyber- security concerns, thanks to IDIS’s use of proprietary software which is inherently resilient. The totally cost-free IDIS Center video management software (VMS) gives security managers and senior staff a complete overview of the entire site from a 24/7 manned and centralised control room. Using the intuitive IDIS Center interface, operators have complete command and control of each camera and access to advanced features and functionality to ensure the secure and smooth day-to-day running of the site. Authorised monitoring and access of footage IDIS technology made this easy, and it was also the quickest and least disruptive to install Video surveillance is a key resource for clinicians, Sr. managers and security staff at Bluebird House as they need to work closely together to deal with incidents and reduce risks of harm. Improved video coverage was needed as it would allow ongoing review of care standards and full investigation of any alleged incidents. Patient privacy is also of paramount importance, so specialist integrator Galeco Communications was selected to implement a solution that would allow authorised monitoring and access of footage for specific rooms and wards. IDIS technology made this easy, and it was also the quickest and least disruptive to install, the most secure against cyber-attacks - in compliance with NHS requirements – and yet would deliver the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO). Ensuring better safety and security Replacing the centre’s ageing camera system, the IDIS solution would give complete coverage of corridors, wards and other high-risk areas in all lighting conditions. The IDIS solution has improved security, safety and care at Bluebird House by providing a complete video record of events. Exterior cameras ensure better safety and security in outdoor communal areas Footage from the 12MP Super Fisheye cameras give a full 360 view without any blind spots with a choice of 6 view modes and crucially provides staff with the ability to de-warp footage retrospectively. Now, if incidents need to be investigated it’s a simple task to retrieve video and provide any high-definition evidence required. Exterior cameras ensure better safety and security in outdoor communal areas, while security operators can quickly detect and respond to any suspicious activity on the perimeter. Access and review recordings "A key benefit for us is that this new system is so easy to use, and particularly for our clinical staff who can now access and review recordings to help them improve patient care. This video technology gives us extra confidence that our patients and staff are safe and protected” said Tracey Edwards, Head of Security at Southern Health NHS Trust. With minimal disruption, and working in this sensitive location, Galeco engineers were able to replace an outdated system with an affordable, high-performance, cybersecure solution that is easy to maintain and operate without any ongoing license fees.

STANLEY Security, one of the UK’s renowned security providers, has completed a major CCTV installation for Bridgnorth Aluminium Limited, the UK's only manufacturer of aluminium flat rolled products. At 27 hectares, Bridgnorth Aluminium’s site in Bridgnorth, Shropshire is extensive. It is home to a casthouse, rolling mill, two litho centres, a multi-slitting line and finishing lines. IP CCTV system The IP CCTV system is critical to our business in terms of health and safety of our employees and site security" The company had previously been using three separate CCTV systems, each covering different parts of this large site, one of which was over 15 years old, had very poor image quality and was starting to show signs of failure. Furthermore, none of the CCTV systems had any level of redundancy, so if one failed access to those particular cameras were lost, along with any recorded footage.  Steve Denton, IT Manager at Bridgnorth Aluminium, explains the decision to upgrade, stating “We needed to consolidate everything into one single CCTV system, including all of the cameras from the other three systems, and we needed to add a level of redundancy. The IP CCTV system is critical to our business in terms of health and safety of our employees and site security.” IP video surveillance Following detailed discussions with Bridgnorth Aluminium, STANLEY Security designed a new site wide IP based CCTV system, covering external areas and the perimeter of the site, along with internal areas including key indoor production spaces.  The system takes advantage of Bridgnorth Aluminium’s existing IP network which is deployed in most areas of the site, negating the need to install COAX cable. Opting for an IP-based CCTV system has also enabled Bridgnorth Aluminium to make use of newer technology with better quality images, which was the key. STANLEY 2MP bullet cameras and dome cameras The cameras feed is stored in two Milestone Husky M500 Advanced Network Video Recording hardware platforms The new IP CCTV system features STANLEY 2MP bullet cameras and dome cameras, including 360⁰ dome models. The cameras feed is stored in two Milestone Husky M500 Advanced Network Video Recording hardware platforms; one of which is used in case of redundancy.  Bridgnorth Aluminium is pleased with the new CCTV system as Steve Denton comments, “The image quality of the new system is streets ahead of the old system. The area of coverage is also far greater thanks to the addition of 180-degree wide angle and 360-degree cameras. The software is very easy to use and has some very useful features to aid with playback of recorded footage. The software has already helped us to retrieve footage that we would have had little chance of retrieving before.” Enhanced site security STANLEY Security has been working with Bridgnorth Aluminium since 2017 when it took over the support of the company’s existing CCTV systems. “The transition period had proved successful” states Steve, commenting on their decision to appoint STANLEY Security for this project. He adds, “The service from STANLEY has been excellent, our account manager Amber is one of a kind and always goes above and beyond for us to ensure that we receive the best service possible.”

An upgrade of surveillance, using the latest video technology from IDIS, has put Circuit Zandvoort in poll position as host venue for the 2020 Formula 1 Grand Prix in the Netherlands. As well as wider improvements to the track, a top priority at the circuit was a complete overhaul of the video monitoring capability to meet the requirements of Formula 1. Security and safety surveillance For Track Manager Niek Oude Luttikhuis a key objective was to rapidly implement a solution that would be much easier than the previous system to use, maintain and adapt in the future. To achieve this, he brought together a team including IDIS – Korea’s surveillance manufacturer. Significantly improving security and safety surveillance of the track, their solution will also let the Formula 1 organisers temporarily receive functional authorised access of video data for the duration of the competition. Video management software Circuit Zandvoort will be able to take advantage of IDIS Critical Failover technology as a service module within the IDIS VMS At the heart of Circuit Zandvoort’s new system is IDIS’s server-crunching, 64 channel DS-IR300 NVR technology, pre-loaded with IDIS Solution Suite video management software (VMS). This allows all the track’s existing cameras to be easily integrated and operated alongside the latest IDIS 5MP speed dome PTZs and 12MP bullet cameras. It also delivers impressive new functionality, including ultra-high-definition monitoring capability using IDIS Smart UX Controls. The system now provides real-time image capture of the highest quality, with no lag, ghost-shadowing or stuttering of images, even when cars travelling at high speed are displayed. Critical Failover technology Images on the racing control room video wall are now crisp and clear. And looking ahead, the IDIS Solution Suite VMS will make it easier to sustain this high standard by allowing cost-efficient, remote firmware updates and system maintenance. Circuit Zandvoort will also now be able to take advantage of IDIS Critical Failover technology as a service module within the IDIS VMS. This protects against video data loss due to a wide range of potential fault conditions, such as network instability or power failure. It ensures that recordings are automatically updated without the need for engineer callouts and with no risk of gaps in recordings while the fault is resolved. No interruption to surveillance IDIS demonstrated a deep understanding of the security and operational requirements of our circuit"The entire upgrade was completed while the original system continued to run in parallel, confirms Track Manager Niek Oude Luttikhuis. This meant there was no interruption to surveillance during implementation, which was vitally important as the track is in almost continuous use. “There is fantastic mutual communication between IDIS and the different suppliers – they think ahead and complement each other,” says Mr Luttikhuis. “And from the start IDIS demonstrated a deep understanding of the security and operational requirements of our circuit and a passion for motor racing.” PTZ cameras for tracking With the new system operational as promised, in the control room a rotating team of 10 people work with the IDIS Solution Suite VMS, with minimal training required to use all its features and functions – including easy search and retrieval, and silky-smooth control of the ultra-high-definition (UHD) PTZ cameras for tracking in real-time. Authorisation levels can be set, giving each individual specific user rights, and during the Grand Prix itself the Formula 1 organisers will also be given access to the system. If necessary, this will also include the ability to view and retrieve footage on mobile devices via the IDIS Mobile app – helping the 2020 Formula 1 Grand Prix to run smoothly behind the scenes.

Central to the Italian motor racing scene, Gruppo Peroni Race organises very high level car championships in the Imola, Vallelunga and Monza Italian racing circuits. For thirty years in the sector, the activity of the Peroni Race Group includes various championships and numerous special events such as endurance tests. When they wanted to open up the racing experience to more members of the public, they turned to a solution using Hikvision products. Partnership with Hikvision and Italec s.r.l The company decided to make its free events more accessible to the public The company decided to make its free events more accessible to the public and asked DirectE20, its historical partner in the audio-video industry, to come up with a solution to broadcast the live video-chronicle on YouTube, Facebook and other social events. They worked in close collaboration with Italtec, distributor of professional security solutions specialised in planning and technical assistance. In order for viewers to be able to experience the sheer thrill of the race, they needed cameras that could follow the high speed action. And due to the unpredictability of European weather, the solution needed to provide great images even in adverse weather conditions and other poor light situations. Speed Dome cameras and network video recorders Italtec chose to design the solution using Hikvision video solutions and products. In particular, they chose the company’s renowned 2MP and 4MP Speed Dome Camera solutions and the 96XX and 77XX series network video recorders (NVRs), together with monitor and keyboard to control the cameras. They chose Hikvision for the high performance of its PTZ products, able to obtain extremely interesting rapid-focus and self-tracking. Video management was entrusted to iVMS 4200, the free Hikvision software. All of these products were brought together in a mobile control room which could broadcast high quality images able to follow cars racing at high speed. The flexibility of the system and the adjustable nature of the cameras meant that they could respond immediately to the action, both automatically and on command from the control room. Camera installation and positioning In order to maximise the viewer experience, during the installation of the products installers needed to pay particular attention to camera positioning. It was essential to capture the images of the vehicles in the approach to curves with different viewing angles, both on arrival and departure of the circuit curve. Alessandro Rossi, Sales Manager of Italtec, has said, "We chose Hikvision for its leadership in the field of high-tech video surveillance. Analysing the professional CCTV market, we received lots of positive feedback from those who have been using the brand for years: we therefore decided to carry out tests, following which we definitively decided to go with Hikvision.” Mobile technology solution Enthusiasts can follow live races and the material collected can be used later to make videos" Gruppo Peroni was also impressed. Sergio Peroni, the organisation’s President, stated, "Thanks to the work carried out by DirectE20, that created the mobile technology solution, today we can collect high quality video material that perfectly meets the needs of our audience. He adds, “Enthusiasts can follow live racing competitions on the circuits and the material collected and filed can also be used later to make videos for advertising or repertoire purposes. We are very satisfied with the technical choices made and above all the results obtained.” Hikvision products delivered a result in the form of an innovative system for audio and video distribution of motor racing at its best, thanks to its simplicity and flexibility. This solution could be used to stream all kinds of sports events in the future.

Video storage is an important – and expensive – aspect of almost any surveillance system. Higher camera counts equate to a need for more storage. New analytics systems make it easier for operators to manage video, but that video must be dependably stored and easy to access if and when it is needed. To keep up to date on the latest developments, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new in video storage solutions?

While unpacking our bags from a trade show, it is interesting to consider the dominant themes and trends we heard and saw at the show. So it is with the recently concluded Global Security Exchange (GSX) show in Chicago, presented by ASIS International. Amid all the product promotion, training sessions, networking and tired feet at the show, what really stood out? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What was the big news at the GSX 2019 trade show in Chicago?

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?