Outdoor video analytics

Inspired by SPS IPC Drives in Nuremberg, Germany and its first sister event in China, SIAF – SPS Industrial Automation Fair Guangzhou, Smart Industry Solutions Shanghai (SISS) was successfully held on 4 September. The conference took place concurrently with Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology (SIBT) and Shanghai Smart Home Technology (SSHT) this year for the first time, providing a supplementary programme for these fairs’ visitors to discover more about the latest manufacturing solutions for their technology products. Smart Industry Solutions Shanghai (SISS) The third edition of SISS presented an overview of the application of Internet of Things (IoT) in the smart industrial automation industry Organised by Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt Co Ltd, the third edition of SISS successfully achieved its aim of presenting an overview of the application of Internet of Things (IoT) in the smart industrial automation industry. SISS was concurrently held with Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology (SIBT) and Shanghai Smart Home Technology (SSHT) for the first time. SISS acted as an effective avenue for the exchange of market intelligence, with expert speakers delivering thought-provoking presentations touching every facet of intelligent industrial automation system. This year’s speakers represented renowned companies, institutes and associations including Contrinex Electronic Technology, Datalogic (Shenzhen) Industrial Automation, Pepperl+Fuchs Automation, Rockwell Automation and Wintelligence. For these companies, the conference helped them to get their innovative ideas across to different sectors of the industry. Conversely, 85 conference attendees from the smart industrial automation and manufacturing sectors were impressed by the engaging dialogue, and found it rewarding to network with key players within the industry. IoT and Artificial Intelligence This year, several key developments of Industry 4.0, ranging from smart factories to automotive applications and intralogistics, were pinpointed, including the idea of utilising IoT technologies to develop revolutionary manufacturing methods. Speakers from different sectors also shared their thoughts on the latest trends related to big data analytics, IT/OT convergence, digital twin and artificial intelligence.

Panasonic, global provider of facial recognition solutions, will showcase its technology features in the Genetec stand (Hall 5, Booth #G30) at Security ESSEN 2018, the world’s most important trade fair for security in Germany. As a technology partner in the Genetec ecosystem, Panasonic will demonstrate the benefits of facial recognition with Genetec Security Center, engineered to benefit end-users with innovative solutions for security camera analytics. FacePRO facial recognition system FacePRO can identify faces that are difficult to recognise within common video surveillance technology FacePRO can identify faces that are difficult to recognise within common video surveillance technology. These situations include reading faces at an angle of up to 45 degrees to the left or right or 30 degrees up or down, with a 90% accuracy rate when detecting faces partially hidden by sunglasses or face masks. FacePRO also has high accuracy reads in matching faces taken from up to ten-year-old passport images. With the Security Center, security professionals can work with FacePRO to detect real time face matching with up to 30,000 faces on a watchlist database. Additionally, end-users can select a face from past recordings to start a face-list search against all related video footage with instant playback. With these search variables combined, businesses can dramatically shorten the time and workflow spent to find related videos that would otherwise have to be completed manually, taking hours, days, or even weeks. With FacePRO integrated in Genetec Security Center, visitors at Security Essen will be able to see how to create the following applications: Watchlist applications (Airport / Transit / Stadium / Retail / Law enforcement) VIP applications (Luxury retail / Entertainment / Hotel & resort) Registered people applications (Corporate / Education / Hospitals) Panasonic-Genetec integration FacePRO represents a deep solutions perspective, beyond a classical integration with Security Center" “We are excited to attend Security Essen 2018 as a technology sponsor on the Genetec stand. FacePRO represents a deep solutions perspective, beyond a classical integration with Security Center,” said M. Hiroshi (Huey) Sekiguchi, Head of global marketing for security business at Panasonic. “With several FacePRO projects already deployed with Security Center, we look forward to demonstrating how our facial recognition engine can provide joint value-add solutions to the market,” added Sekiguchi. “Genetec and Panasonic share the same vision of providing world-class security solutions that meet today’s growing requirements for data-intensive analytics— especially face recognition,” said Georges Tannous, Director of Strategic Alliances at Genetec. “We are excited to feature demonstrations of Panasonic FacePRO, integrated with Security Center, on the Genetec stand at Security Essen,” added Tannous.

Integrated security manufacturer TDSi has announced that it will be appearing as a partner at the Milestone Integration Expo UK, which is being held at the Hilton at St George's Park, Burton Upon Trent on Wednesday 19th September 2018. Milestone Integration Expo UK The Milestone Integration Expo UK provides visitors with a greater insight into the powerful integration of Milestone’s XProtect VMS (Video Management System) solution by a number of complementary security systems, including TDSi’s EXgarde security management software. Alex Rumsey, Director of UK Sales at TDSi commented, “As the World’s number one provider of VMS systems, we are proud that Milestone has invited us to partner with them at this event. This is the perfect opportunity for installers, specifiers and end users to view and understand the powerful integration capabilities of using Milestone’s XProtect VMS and our EXgarde solution, to provide a truly 360-degree view of security management.” Milestone VMS-Exgarde security management integration The event will feature eight Milestone Partners, providing insights into the flexibility of their integrated security products The event will feature eight Milestone Partners, providing insights into the flexibility of their integrated security products. Live demonstrations will be held throughout the day (09:30am to 4:45pm) giving visitors the opportunity to attend and participate in as many of these as required. The Milestone Integration Expo UK is free to attend but requires registration. It starts on Wednesday 19th September at 09:30am, with a BBQ Dinner at the Hilton St. George's Park Hotel Restaurant starting at 7:00pm. Visitors will have access to the newest technologies within access control, video analytics, body-worn cameras, system design and storage optimisation – along with networking opportunities with some of the most successful IP video systems integrators, resellers and distributors in the UK. Alex concluded, “Unlike a general trade show, this is a highly focused event which will provide specific details and assistance for anyone that use Milestone’s market-leading systems. All the presentation teams will be there to provide a solid educational forum and to discuss specific applications for the technology in the real world. We look forward to seeing you there!”

Axis Communications has added ExCam XPT Q6055 Explosion-Protected PTZ Network Camera with low weight and profile, to simplify installation in hazardous environments. The PoE-powered camera helps production managers to ensure operational efficiency, while also meeting all safety, security and environment regulations. ExCam XPT Q6055 enables real-time monitoring of the site and visual identification if an alarm has been triggered. The camera facilitates smarter decision-making for resource allocation and actions in case of an incident. ExCam XPT Q6055 PTZ network camera ExCam XPT Q6055 has been created for easy and quick installation to save time and labor costsDesigned for potentially hazardous environments, such as refineries, oil rigs, food processing and chemical plants, the camera is certified for use in explosion-prone environments according to international standards. The stainless-steel housing is certified to worldwide standards (ATEX, IECEx, EAC), protecting against corrosion in harsh outdoor environments, as well as preventing damage from water and dust. The broad temperature range allows it to be installed in arctic as well as desert conditions. Image quality is not compromised by durability, as HDTV 1080p and 32x optical zoom offers superb zoomed-in views of people and objects of interest, as well as focus recall to ensure the image is instantly in focus to provide lightning fast monitoring across vast areas Easy installation and enhanced safety ExCam XPT Q6055 has been created for easy and quick installation to save time and labor costs. It’s ‘plug and play’ installation is achieved by only needing one PoE (Power over Ethernet) cable for data connection and power provision. It can also easily be integrated with an existing surveillance system, offering significant savings on employing specialists to install the device. Furthermore, ExCam XPT Q6055 weighs less than a traditional explosion-protected PTZ camera making it easier to install and manage. This is particularly useful in situations like on oilrigs, where heavy winds present a challenge. The power source, provided by the included AXIS T8154 60 W SFP Midspan, offers a long-distance fiber connection so it can be positioned in a dedicated junction box on the ground. This increases safety, reduces the possible points of failure, and makes troubleshooting any issues easier as it is more accessible to the technicians. Axis built-in analytics Axis built-in analytics are also included to help security managers make smarter decisions about resource allocation and cut down on routine patrols Axis built-in analytics are also included to help security managers make smarter decisions about resource allocation and cut down on routine patrols. A wealth of additional advanced analytics from many of Axis Communications partners can also easily be added for further tailored analytics thanks to an open platform and ONVIF compliance. These analytical tools can help keep personnel and equipment safe. An enter/exit detector, for example, can trigger an alarm if someone enters a restricted area. This is especially useful in hazardous environments where accidents or malicious interference can have potentially fatal consequences. Jesper Olavi, Global Product Manager at Axis Communications, commented: “Our goal is to offer our customers one system for all security aspects, which can be scaled, no matter what their needs. Explosion-protected cameras are traditionally expensive and cumbersome, so we wanted to create a camera that was agile enough to tackle some of the issues around placement and functionality, without reducing its resilience in challenging environments. We also wanted to ensure ExCam XPT Q6055 is cost efficient, which we have achieved by streamlining the installation process and making it more straightforward to manage.”

National safety is the foundation of a prosperous country, and a strict and complete surveillance system can help the first line army to keep the sensitive military areas safe. Surveon military solutions has been deployed in warships around the globe, providing advanced and reliable performance for military use, ensuring the safety of citizen, soldiers and national property. Surveon military solutions support the world leading maritime and naval CCTV system integrator to win many projects in Northern America, Europe and Far East Asia. 24/7 video surveillance for reliable security Surveon cameras are fully compatible with major 3rd party VMS such as Milestone VMSThe military must need a solution which can provide sufficient reliability for 24/7 operations. From camera, NVR to VMS, each part of system needs to perform well, regardless of different kinds of environment. Surveon is committed to meeting and exceeding the exacting quality demands of partners. Each Surveon product is designed and manufactured with industrial-grade components, circuit, tooling, integration, and validation abilities as well as ISO9001/14001 certified production capabilities, its quality can be proved by the extremely low RMA rate. Military surveillance is required to cover vast areas of land and sea. To do this effectively, you must utilise various and reliable video analytics to remain one step ahead of constantly evolving challenges. Featuring functions such as foreign and missing object detection, forbidden area, intrusion detection and camera tampering detection, Surveon Video Analytics reduce the workload on security and management staff, increasing the situational awareness of monitoring personnel and wide-area surveillance efficiency. Real-time video analytics and military surveillance The project owners are extremely satisfied with the quality and compatibility of Surveon products"The complicated integration and verification tasks consume many invisible resources of system integrators, let alone it contains multiple potential risks of integration. Surveon cameras are fully compatible with major 3rd party VMS such as Milestone VMS, saving the efforts and time to integrate different brands of products. Besides, many 3rd party camera providers have been fully tested for compatibility with Surveon NVR systems, giving partners a broad range of solution selections for their projects. The worldwide leading system integrator had adopted Surveon solution into military usage, including total 424 CAM3371EM, using on 6 different systems. “The project owners are extremely satisfied with the quality and compatibility of Surveon products and we will keep working with Surveon for joint growth. It helps us to win many contracts from large ship builders in Northern America, Europe and Far East Asia.” said the project manager of the SI.

Genetec Inc., global manufacturer of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, announced its show lineup for Security Essen 2018. In its 21st year of delivering global innovation for physical IP security, Genetec will demonstrate Security Center, its scalable, open-architecture security platform that unifies video surveillance, access control, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), communications, and analytics. Genetec will also feature its family of security infrastructure appliances and will host 11 industry technology partners on its stand—all demonstrating their technology integrations and support for Security Center. IP VMS and Security Center (v5.7) Visitors will be able to see the latest features in Security Center (v5.7), including its IP video management system (VMS), designed to scale and adapt to the evolving needs of the security market. This latest version also features enhanced privacy protection, designed to help end-users comply with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) data privacy and confidentiality mandates, along with a new reporting feature that automatically alerts system administrators to outdated camera firmware. Genetec will demonstrate how customers can easily migrate their legacy access control systems to a unified Security Center platformGenetec will demonstrate its Streamvault turnkey security infrastructure appliances, pre-installed with Security Center to offer a simplified software delivery system. In addition to video surveillance, access control, and ANPR support, Streamvault also now provides certified performance with KiwiVision Privacy Protector—a core module in Security Center—that dynamically anonymises video to support GDPR compliance for public and private video surveillance environments. Genetec will also demonstrate how customers can easily migrate their legacy access control systems to a unified Security Center platform. Genetec Trust Center  Committed to maintaining the highest levels of privacy protection, Genetec continues to inform IT and security professionals on both cybersecurity and privacy practices. Genetec has recently launched the Genetec Trust Center, a central repository of educational materials focused on cybersecurity, privacy, and security-of-security topics to help system integrators and end-users mitigate risks via trusted best practices. Genetec will host 11 of its technology partners in individual demo pods on the stand at Security Essen“With our growing presence in Germany, Genetec is happy to bring its many innovations to Security Essen this year. We will show our customers and partners how they can unify their security platforms into a scalable model that offers one solution through a single interface for improved operational efficiency, adhering to the highest standards of GDPR-compliant data privacy,” said Nick D’Hoedt, Regional Manager Benelux and DACH, Genetec. “We’re also proud to welcome 11 of our top technology partners from our growing ecosystem of camera, access control, sensing and software vendors,” added D’hoedt. Genetec Mission Control Also, on display at the Genetec stand will be Genetec Mission Control, a collaborative decision and event management software that provides organisations with new levels of situational intelligence, visualisation, and complete incident management capabilities. Genetec will host 11 of its technology partners in individual demo pods on the stand at Security Essen. Each partner will demonstrate their hardware and software integrations with Security Center. Featured sponsors include: Bosch, Edesix, MOBOTIX, OPTEX, Panasonic, Quanergy, Siklu, Southwest Microwave, SimonsVoss, The Safe Group, and Schréder.

In the physical security space, video analytics have historically over-promised and under-delivered, often leaving end users sceptical about their capabilities. However, increased integration with security solutions and other business systems, as well as developments in deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI), have given video analytics a significant boost in recent years. Here, we take a look at the key trends putting video analytics in the spotlight, and how this opens up new opportunities for increased security and business intelligence. Deep learning and AI will enhance video analytics capabilities At the start of 2018, our security industry experts commented on how deep learning technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) would extend to the video surveillance industry, allowing security professionals to gain very specific insights into human behaviour. Our experts predicted that this would permit organisations to reduce risk, enable efficiencies, reduce costs, ensure compliance and provide faster access to stored video. With AI-enables video systems, video analytics are set to perform more complex applications at a higher level of accuracy. Image processing developments allow intelligent analytics  According to Ambarella’s Chris Day, advancing chip technology combined with the neural network approach to computer vision is game changing for video analytics. Since the problem of higher resolution has already been solved, the key differentior for video surveillance systems will be the ability to add computer vision in parallel with image processing and high-resolution encoding – ideally in a chip that is low-power. Integration with security systems increases video analytics value Video systems produce an immense amount of data that is often wasted, says Bosch Security Systems’ Sean Murphy. When video analytics alerts are integrated with other security systems, video events can trigger responses from other parts of the security solution. For example, cameras with video analytics can initiate intrusion detection system events initiate intrusion detection system events, prompting the panel to take action by alerting the central station or sending video to security personnel.   Video analytics add value with actionable business intelligence Adding network video to the current generation of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provides actional value beyond situational intelligence for security purposes. With increasingly intelligent sensors, interactions between business systems are becoming more sophisticated, providing a value greater than the sum of the parts. Organisations can use smart applications to reduce energy consumption, allocate workspace, and reduce operating costs. In a retail environment, analytics are now capable of assessing a scene for occupancy and crowd control, even generating reports of trends over time. Video analytics detect abnormalities to predict incidents Camera-based video analytics can go beyond assessing a current scene to predicting potential risks before they occur, explains Pelco’s Jonathan Lewitt. Based on predetermined factors or analysis of prior events, systems can collect all available information to determine the level of severity of a situation and whether an action needs to be taken. At the same time, systems can correlate data from video and other sources to help analyse similar occurrences in the future. Video analytics increasingly supplemented with audio analytics Audio analytics are often overlooked, notes Hanwha Techwin’s Paul Kong, perhaps due to differing privacy laws from video surveillance. However, audio analytics processed in a camera can help provide a secondary layer of verification for events, as well as identifying gunshots, screams, or other sounds indicating an incident is taking place. This makes audio analytics ideal for dealing with active shooter events at schools and campuses. As Louroe Electronics’ Richard Brent explains, audio analytics software can detect rising levels of human aggression, as well as recognising firearm discharge. This can trigger alerts to ensure incidents are dealt with swiftly.

As anyone who has ever flown on a commercial airline since 2001 knows, security measures at airports are well enforced and the emphasis on traveller safety is all around the airport and its grounds. Mass transportation, meanwhile, presents a special but not any less significant challenge when it comes to determining security issues. These facilities need to develop the means to protect a constantly changing and large population of passengers. And unlike airports these facilities often have hundreds of points of entry and exit on multiple modes—buses, subways, light rail, commuter trains, even ferries. About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation. In fact, statistics have shown that nearly 11 billion trips are taken on public transportation every year. In some large metropolitan areas in North America where mass transit is well established, more than 20 percent of the area’s inhabitants get around via public transportation.About 2 million Americans will use the nation’s airways on a given work day, while 35 million people will board some form of public transportation Solving mass transit security For transportation officials and their security providers, solving the mass transit security issue begins with determining the key concerns and then creating the proper responses via security systems, policies and procedures to mitigate the risks. Although vandalism and graffiti are very visible signs of criminal behaviour in mass transit settings such as bus stops and subway stations, this is not where transportation officials typically focus their energy. Fences and gates can secure out-of-service buses and train cars, as can remote surveillance methods to keep such vandalism at a minimum. Instead, it is the day-to-day safety and security of transit riders and employees that should become the highest priority. This begins with creating the safest environment possible that is highlighted with appropriate signage and, when necessary, audible warnings, and supporting that with technology, such as surveillance cameras, that will document what has happened if an incident occurs.Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Crime prevention in transportation Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package Incidents of concern within a transit setting can take several forms, ranging from legitimate accidents or crimes to false claims such as faked fall down the stairs to potential and actual suicides. Bus and subway stations also have become magnets for homeless people who may put themselves and others in harm’s way by trying to access less secure public areas within a station as temporary shelters. If someone is injured on a subway platform and the transit provider is held liable, it could be on the hook for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars. Suicides are a major concern for operators, with personnel now being trained to look for individuals who seem distressed, are loitering in the area or are intentionally putting themselves in a dangerous situation, such as standing too close to the edge of a platform. The deployment of video analytics, which can be programmed to send alerts when certain pre-set actions occur, can help determine when such dangerous behaviours come into play. Analytics can also be useful in alerting security about other suspicious behaviours at a transit stop, such as an untended bag or package or a person going into a restricted area. Whether it is on the bus, train or ferry or at the stops themselves, cameras and intuitive video management systems are the key to both active and forensic transit security. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras Train security and safety By using the proper cameras and recording systems in a transit environment, quick-acting personnel can locate a person of interest who boarded a train at one station, follow him during his trip and produce a crisp, clear identifiable image at the end. Those setting up the system thus should keep in mind proper camera positioning, resolution and motion-based changes to framerates or other compression settings. A typical 30-foot bus often has six cameras—one each at the front and middle doors, two more within the bus and then one looking forward and another looking behind the bus. The latter two are important in the event of accidents to verify liability. Some cities use buses that are up to 60 feet long and those can be equipped with up to a dozen cameras.Train stations often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image Train cars are similarly equipped with two to four cameras to view activity down the centre aisle. Within the stations themselves, there can be from 15 to 30 or more cameras capturing wide-angle shots. Train stations, which have a restricted point of egress, often deploy high-definition cameras to better support facial recognition software to get that actionable image. Installing the right technology for the solution Although bandwidth and storage can be a concern, with motion-based recording, the resolution can be bumped up during event, resulting in a 1-megapixel stream jumping to 4 or even 8mbps when needed. By changing the resolution on demand, end users can cut their storage needs significantly. Transportation settings often rely on the same technology used in other security installations, primarily mini dome cameras, although there are some mini transit domes built specifically for the environment with the proper aesthetics. Because of vandalism threats, transit typically avoids pendant mounts, which can be more easily grabbed and damaged. Temperature ratings for cameras also come into play in cold climates with cameras often getting outdoor exposure.Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage As trains and buses move along their routes, especially those that service outlying areas, Internet connectivity becomes an issue as well. Because it may be difficult for video to be sent in transit, security bus barns are equipped with Wi-Fi so video from onboard cameras can be downloaded at the end of the day. And the use of hardened recorders at the stations allows security personnel to retrieve recorded video. Transit security with modern technology Today’s new buses and trains are constructed with the cameras onboard and newer stations also take security into consideration at the earliest design stage. Older infrastructure from long-standing subway and bus terminals can prove to be a challenge when adding security, but these issues aren’t insurmountable. Often the solution is to add more cameras to cover the same square footage because of less-than-ideal sight lines and to place conduit wherever it works best, which may mean positioning it under platforms or in other out-of-the-way places within older stations. Looking ahead, transit security will continue to evolve, not only as new stations and modes of transportation are added to the system, but in terms of communicating with commuters. People can expect to get mass notification alerts on their mobile devices, and those same devices can provide vital data to transportation entities to better develop their overall systems.

Audio is often overlooked in the security and video surveillance industry. There are some intercom installations where audio plays a key role, but it’s not typically thought about when it comes to security and event management. Audio takes a back seat in many security systems because audio captured from a surveillance camera can have a different impact on the privacy of those being monitored. Audio surveillance is therefore subject to strict laws that vary from state to state. Many states require a clearly posted sign indicating audio recording is taking place in an area before a person enters. Analytic information derived from audio can be a useful tool and when implemented correctly, removes any concerns over privacy or legal compliance. Audio analytics on the edge overcomes legal challenges as it never passes audio outside of the camera Focused responses to events Audio analytics processed in the camera, has been a niche and specialised area for many installers and end users. This could be due to state laws governing audio recording, however, audio analytics on the edge overcomes legal challenges as it never passes audio outside of the camera Processing audio analytics in-camera provides excellent privacy since audio data is analysed internally with a set of algorithms that only compare and assess the audio content. Processing audio analytics on the edge also reduces latency compared with any system that needs to send the raw audio to an on-premises or cloud server for analysis. Audio analytics can quickly pinpoint zones that security staff should focus on, which can dramatically shorten response times to incidents. Audio-derived data also provides a secondary layer of verification that an event is taking place which can help prioritise responses from police and emergency personnel. Having a SoC allows a manufacturer to reserve space for specialised features, and for audio analytics, a database of reference sounds is needed for comparison Microphones and algorithms Many IP-based cameras have small microphones embedded in the housing while some have a jack for connecting external microphones to the camera. Microphones on indoor cameras work well since the housing allows for a small hole to permit sound waves to reach the microphone. Outdoor cameras that are IP66 certified against water and dust ingress will typically have less sensitivity since the microphone is not exposed. In cases like these, an outdoor microphone, strategically placed, can significantly improve outdoor analytic accuracy. There are several companies that make excellent directional microphones for outdoor use, some of which can also combat wind noise. Any high-quality external microphone should easily outperform a camera’s internal microphone in terms of analytic accuracy, so it is worth considering in areas where audio information gathering is deemed most important. In-built audio-video analytics Surveillance cameras with a dedicated SoC (System on Chip) have become available in recent years with in-built video and audio analytics that can detect and classify audio events and send alerts to staff and emergency for sounds such as gunshots, screams, glass breaks and explosions. Having a SoC allows a manufacturer to reserve space for specialised features. For audio analytics, a database of reference sounds is needed for comparison. The camera extracts the characteristics of the audio source collected using the camera's internal or externally connected microphone and calculates its likelihood based on the pre-defined database. If a match is found for a known sound, e.g., gunshot, explosion, glass break, or scream, an event is triggered, and the message is passed to the VMS. If a match is found for a known sound, e.g., gunshot, explosion, glass break, or scream, an event is triggered, and the message is passed to the VMS Configuring a camera for audio analytics Audio detectionThe first job of a well-configured camera or camera/mic pair is to detect sounds of interest while rejecting ancillary sounds and noise below a preset threshold. Each camera must be custom configured for its particular environment to detect audio levels which exceed a user-defined level. Since audio levels are typically greater in abnormal situations, any audio levels exceeding the baseline set levels are detected as being a potential security event. Operators can be notified of any abnormal situations via event signals allowing the operator to take suitable measures. Finding a baseline of background noise and setting an appropriate threshold level is the first step. Installers should be able to enable or disable the noise reduction function and view the results to validate the optimum configuration during setup Noise reductionA simple threshold level may not be adequate enough to reduce false alarms depending on the environment where a camera or microphone is installed. Noise reduction is a feature on cameras that can reduce background noise greater than 55dB-65dB for increased detection accuracy. Installers should be able to enable or disable the noise reduction function and view the results to validate the optimum configuration during setup. With noise reduction enabled, the system analyses the attenuated audio source. As such, the audio source classification performance may be hindered or generate errors, so it is important to use noise reduction technology sparingly. Audio source classificationIt’s important to supply the analytic algorithm with a good audio level and a high signal-to-noise ratio to reduce the chance of generating false alarms under normal circumstances. Installers should experiment with ideal placement for both video as well as audio. While a ceiling corner might seem an ideal location for a camera, it might also cause background audio noise to be artificially amplified. Many cameras provide a graph which visualises audio source levels to allow for the intuitive checking of noise cancellation and detection levels. Analytics take privacy concerns out of the equation and allow installers and end users to use camera audio responsibly Messages and eventsIt’s important to choose a VMS that has correctly integrated the camera’s API (application programming interface) in order to receive comprehensive audio analytic events that include the classification ID (explosion, glass break, gunshot, scream). A standard VMS that only supports generic alarms, may not be able to resolve all of the information. More advanced VMS solutions can identify different messages from the camera. Well configured audio analytics can deliver critical information about a security event, accelerating response times and providing timely details beyond video-only surveillance. Analytics take privacy concerns out of the equation and allow installers and end users to use camera audio responsibly. Hanwha Techwin's audio source classification technology, available in its X Series cameras, features three customisable settings for category, noise cancellation and detection level for optimum performance in a variety of installation environments.

  The cloud and deep learning are two technologies on the verge of transforming the video surveillance market. You often hear the two technologies mentioned as separate trends, but lately, I have been hearing about how interdependent they are. Economies of scale provided by the Cloud (Software as a Service, or SaaS) are making the sophisticated capabilities of deep learning affordable to a wider audience. Meanwhile, deep learning augments cloud systems with capabilities that may not be available, or affordable, in on-premise systems, thus accelerating the broader move to cloud systems. A new era of autonomous video One company that is combining the cloud and deep learning in an end-to-end system is Umbo Computer Vision, an “autonomous video security technology” company built on its founders’ expertise in deep learning and machine vision. The company’s cameras are equipped with basic video analytics, and they are tied into a cloud infrastructure that provides additional deep learning algorithms. The cameras provide computer vision pre-processing, with the bulk of detailed analysis happening in a neural network in the cloud.One customer benefits from another customer and all the knowledge is aggregated together" “Having a SaaS model gives companies like ours the resources to improve the deep learning model,” says Shawn Guan, CEO and co-founder of Umbo Computer Vision. “We can make more accurate systems that scale better and faster. SaaS enables vendors to do something great with deep learning. You don’t have to redo it for everybody. One customer benefits from another customer and all the knowledge is aggregated together.” Adapting to a changing landscape Umbo’s deep learning analytics provide higher accuracy, says Guan. For example, the system can provide accurate alerts on people climbing a wall, and it can accommodate for elements such as shadows and adverse weather conditions. The cameras can also provide occupancy information from a video view of a room; unlike people-counting applications, the camera does not need to be mounted above the door. The algorithms can detect loitering and can track a subject even if he or she disappears briefly from view (such as walking behind a building). Umbo developed the algorithms from scratch using the company’s deep roots in technology. Guan says the company was “built on data and using data.”    The company’s cameras are equipped with basic video analytics, and they are tied into a cloud infrastructure that provides additional deep learning algorithms The cloud serves as a media gateway “Cybersecurity is ensured,” says Guan. The cloud provides built-in authentication with the camera; user names and passwords are handled in the cloud, so there is no manual reset of the password at the device level. The cloud serves as a media gateway, and two-way communication between the camera and the cloud addresses how much data is streamed. Data in the camera has 256-bit encryption, and there is a secure “tunnel” through which data moves in the Internet. In the cloud, the host provider, such as Google, Microsoft or Amazon, protects the data to their own high standards. Each camera has industrial grade SD providing 30 days’ storage of full frame rate, 30fps video at 1080p, with backup in the cloud. In effect, the camera operates in-lieu of a network video recorder.The end-to-end system is designed to handle an essentially-unlimited number of cameras and can also be integrated with other products Handling unlimited cameras Customers interface with the system through the cloud’s software user experience. The end-to-end system is designed to handle an essentially-unlimited number of cameras and can also be integrated with other products. Umbo targets the enterprise market and has around two-hundred enterprise customers in the United States - their biggest market - as well as offices in London and Taipei, and customers around the world. The cost structure involves an annual payment per camera, between $280 and $600 depending on features/capabilities. Umbo is introducing a new bullet camera with a zoom lens for exterior applications, incorporating a higher-end Sony sensor for good low-light performance and wide dynamic range (WDR). The camera’s modular design enables the addition of features such as longer-range infrared – increased from 100 to 160 feet – white-light LED to provide a colour image, and greater deterrence, at night, and a long-range microphone for audio. The company also offers a fixed-lens dome camera for indoor applications.

Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE) is the gaming and hospitality arm of the Cherokee Nation, operating multiple casinos and hotels across northeast Oklahoma, USA, including the prestigious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Concerned that their security team was spending an overly large number of person-hours reviewing video recordings searching for a single person of interest, CNE sought to reduce the time it took to review security footage, so their security team could remain focused on proactive tasks, and optimise their day-to-day efficiency. CNE also wanted to obtain and assess accurate data on occupancy and visitor trends for business intelligence purposes. Furthermore, CNE wanted to be alerted to security-related events in real-time, in order to handle security issues as they developed.  savVi’s video surveillance solution                                   CNE selected savVi, Agent Vi’s on premise video analytics solution, due to the wide range of video analytics capabilities that savVi offers. Over 1,000 savVi licenses were purchased, allowing cameras at CNE’s ten Oklahoma-based casinos to be enabled with different combinations of real-time event detection, video search and business intelligence capabilities. CNE utilises the video search capability most widely – to enable rapid search through the surveillance video to pinpoint events of interest – and therefore video search capabilities are enabled on the majority of cameras at the sites. Business intelligence capabilities are mostly deployed around the various gaming machines, and at entrance and exit points, to show traffic patterns and real-time people counts. Real-time event detection capabilities are used largely for the high-security areas to ensure that CNE’s security team is informed regarding situations, as they unfold. savVi is deployed through integration with a range of Axis network cameras, primarily the AXIS P3225 and Q3505 fixed cameras, the AXIS P5635, Q6044 and Q6045 PTZ cameras, and for outdoor vehicle search, the AXIS Q3708 fixed camera with three sensors. CNE uses Milestone XProtect Corporate Video Management System (VMS), which is fully and seamlessly integrated with savVi, a Milestone Certified Solution. savVi’s video search capabilities allow for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino savVi’s real-time event detection savVi’s video search capabilities are of considerable importance to CNE. There is a prevailing need for the casinos to be able to swiftly locate specific events within masses of footage (“incident remediation” as it is known within the entertainment industry). Among other things, this allows for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino. Previously, the security team’s time was heavily occupied by observing hours of footage in search of a specific person or incident. savVi now enables CNE to run the search automatically, allowing far more effective use of the operators’ time, and reduced search time from as much as 16 hours for a single search, down to a matter of minutes.  savVi’s real-time event detection capabilities are primarily used by CNE to ensure a safer and more secure environment within the casino parking facilities. By immediately alerting to any suspicious event, such as people loitering or cars moving in an unauthorised direction, the security team can monitor events and act accordingly as they unfold. savVi’s heat mapping capabilities savVi also allows CNE to gather and analyse essential business intelligence data on occupancy and visitor trends. savVi delivers accurate headcounts, meaning that the security team is constantly aware of how many people are on-site and using the casino facilities. This provides essential knowledge in the case of an emergency where a facility might need to be evacuated, and also helps prevent over-crowding. By utilising savVi’s heat mapping capabilities, CNE has knowledge of which areas of the casino are more heavily populated, and at what times. CNE can then leverage the data collected in a number of ways, including negotiating leasing deals for externally-owned casino equipment and knowing which internal locations require heavier investment of machines and personnel. This puts CNE well ahead of its competitors, as it is one of, if not the, first gaming company to employ Business Intelligence through video analytics. SavVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities" savVi’s video analytics capabilities “It was savVi’s swift and effective video search that caught CNE’s attention when searching for an enhanced security solution, in particular due to the automated query ability,” said Joshua Anderson, Director of Surveillance and Technology, Cherokee Nation Entertainment. “We have been extremely impressed with savVi’s capabilities and the quality of its performance, and fully expect savVi to increase efficiencies and provide true ROI which will have a major impact on the bottom line.”  “Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission’s approval of savVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities offer to gaming concerns,” commented AJ Frazer, VP Business Development, Agent Vi. “Having selected to deploy the full range of savVi video analytics functionalities, savVi offers CNE valuable insights into the activities and customer experience at their multiple sites, benefitting both CNE and their customers.”

It was over a century ago that Charlotte Hungerford Hospital (CHH) was founded, as a gift by industrialist Uri T. Hungerford. The vision was to create a community hospital that would serve as a beacon of hope and a place of comfort for the ill and injured. 100 years later, that same community spirit has helped CHH evolve into a vibrant, independent, affordable healthcare network that delivers a comprehensive range of healthcare programs and services for over 100,000 lives in Northwestern Connecticut. A challenging safety diagnosis Avigilon has made us more efficient as we don’t have to spend much time sifting through large amounts of video” Charlotte Hungerford Hospital prides itself on supporting patient and staff safety in all hospital areas and locations. Several years ago, they found themselves with an outdated security system that lacked quality video coverage and recording capabilities. CHH struggled with reliable video playback and faced frequent system crashes. As a result, the hospital’s security operators were often unable to provide accurate evidence during forensic investigations and many liability claims and hospital incidents went unresolved. CHH needed a cost-effective, comprehensive security solution that could protect patients and staff across multiple locations while still being flexible enough to scale with the hospital’s growing needs.  Avigilon AI & analytics technology With a desire to improve its legacy surveillance system, CHH looked to Avigilon’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology and video analytics to meet their security needs. CHH began a multi-phase upgrade that included installing over 100 Avigilon cameras with self-learning video analytics, deploying AI-based Avigilon Appearance Search technology and using impulse radar technology with the Avigilon Presence Detector (APD) Sensor. Avigilon Appearance Search technology – a sophisticated deep learning AI search engine – helps CHH quickly locate a specific person or vehicle of interest across all cameras both inside the hospital and care centres as well as outside parking lots. This technology provides CHH’s operators with enhanced situational awareness, enabling fast event response and helping to save time and effort during critical investigations. To protect areas of the hospital where cameras cannot be installed, CHH installed the Avigilon Presence Detector (APD), a discreet impulse radar device with self-learning radar analytics that scans, learns, and continuously adapts to its environment. Avigilon presence detector sensors Our Security Department’s mission at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital is the safety of our patients, visitors, and employees” Capable of detecting persons who aren’t moving or are hidden, the APD sensors help improve situational awareness for CHH staff, and are used in areas where cameras are not permitted, such as restrooms or change rooms. When integrated with Avigilon Control Centre (ACC) video management software, APD sensors alert CHH operators of human presence while still maintaining privacy. Avigilon H4 cameras were used throughout the hospital to provide exceptional image quality and built-in self-learning video analytics, which provides accurate detection and notification of movement of people and vehicles. CHH also deployed HD Multi-sensor cameras which provide up to four camera views per camera installation, using only one camera license and network drop. This allows CHH’s staff to efficiently cover all angles in order to detect, verify, and act on potential security events across the hospital’s premises. Avigilon H4 and HD multi-sensor cameras At the core of CHH is a desire to help the community and still serve as the beacon of compassion it was founded to be 100 years ago. With these values in mind, the hospital’s mission when it comes to security is the safety of patients, visitors, and employees. Avigilon’s AI solutions have helped achieve this by moving the CHH system from legacy to advanced and providing effective monitoring around the clock while also helping to create operational efficiencies. Since deploying ACC software, CHH’s operators spend significantly less time reviewing recorded video, allowing them to focus on proactive event response. Working with Avigilon, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital has a roadmap for continued growth and exceptional patient safety.

With a number of terrorist attacks having taken place around the world in the past days, city surveillance has become a crucial issue with top priority for the local and central governments. Surveon city solutions provide product lines including high reliability cameras with excellent image quality, feature-rich VMS with video analytics function, and RAID NVR with large storage capacity for 365+ days non-stopping recording. These comprehensive solutions help governments to build good foundations to improve social order, crack down on crimes, and protect citizens from horrible attacks. High reliability cameras Generally speaking, the governments might encounter some major challenges when designing a suitable surveillance system, such as heat, humidity, and temperature changes in outdoor environment. Under such circumstances, Surveon provides cameras with excellent image quality and lowest RMA rate to handle all kinds of outdoor condition. "Surveon’s industrial designed and 100% own manufactured cameras have made us feel confident about this project. The cameras are now being used for a few years with an average failure rate of less than 0.03% which is really impressive." said Chan, the surveillance project manager of Kaohsiung. Surveon NVRs provide large capacities for 365+ days non-stopping recording, extended IP storage, and RAID function for zero video loss The data retention of recorded video is particularly important to the planning and acceptance of city projects. Surveon NVRs provide large capacities for 365+ days non-stopping recording, extended IP storage, and RAID function for zero video loss.  Enterprise VMS In addition, Surveon intuitive VMS offers features such as video analytics, offering police units powerful yet easy to use solutions for city surveillance. By paired with Surveon enterprise VMS, the solutions provide robust prevention, preparedness, detection, and quick response measures. Surveon city solutions have been successfully applied in some major cities in Taiwan and Mongolia. “With Surveon’s E2E solutions, from 3-megapixel IP66 cameras, hardware RAID NVR, clustered storage, to enterprise VMS, we are now better equipped to monitor the entire district and protect the community against illegal activities.” said the Sükhbaatar district police officer in Mongolia.

To provide a practical solution to the monitoring of transportation infrastructure, where maximum situational awareness is paramount, Bosch Building Technologies has combined the innovation behind its video security cameras with the video management expertise of Intelligent Security Systems (ISS).  ISS is a global developer of video management and video intelligence solutions. The video management platform, SecurOS, focuses on securing large mission-critical applications, such as industrial and manufacturing sites, transportation systems, banks, sports arenas, retail locations, and campuses and office complexes. ISS’ differentiating video intelligence and image analytics solutions, whether it is Face Capture & Recognition (SecurOS FACE), License Plate Recognition (SecurOS AUTO License Plate Recognition), or Container Character Recognition (SecurOS CARGO), provide effective monitoring solutions to the transportation sector. The capabilities stretch to large-scale entry and exit points such as ports, borders and airport car parks  Surveillance challenges Transportation security provides surveillance challenges in varying degrees of situation and scale, so effective license plate recognition is crucial. From tunnels and bridges, where a situation can change in seconds, to regulating traffic flow into a city and capturing a profile of each vehicle, Bosch and ISS can provide answers to the questions that matter. Has a particular vehicle been permitted access to a specific area? Has that vehicle been stolen? What’s the insurance or toll subscription status? Has that vehicle been authorised to operate as a taxi? The capabilities even stretch to large-scale entry and exit points such as ports, borders and airport car parks.  Vehicle monitoring Monitoring which vehicles are entering an area, and checking their legitimacy to be there, has never been more critical. Having the capability to capture license plates of every vehicle moving in the designated area gives users complete awareness of traffic flows and usage patterns, allowing them to configure and manage their monitoring preferences efficiently and permit secure data exchanges with other operational management systems and services for efficient infrastructure alignment.  If driving conditions were perfect all-year round, the job of an operations manager, for example, would be quite straightforward. But the reality is quite the opposite. That is why the ISS certified Bosch cameras responsible for capturing this data are incredibly robust and built to produce usable images 24/7 in the harshest conditions, including after dark by employing a supplementary infrared light. The selected cameras have a special License Plate Recognition (LPR) mode which is developed in collaboration with ISS to deliver accurate information even when faced with the challenges of glaring headlights and fast-moving vehicles. Interpreting video data directly at source helps to improve levels of security substantially and can also offer clear business advantages  SecurOS AUTO license plate recognition High standards are applied to the quality of the images captured. By incorporating the SecurOS AUTO License Plate Recognition (LPR/ANPR) solution, Bosch and ISS can provide several unique benefits for users, including the ability to accurately capture license plate information at 210 km/h (130 mph) in all kinds of weather conditions, including light fog, rain, and snow. Furthermore, utilising advanced algorithms results in a level of accuracy that can distinguish letters from numbers (so an “8” is not mistaken for a “B,” for example) which is a crucial advantage, particularly in emergency situations. The partnership with ISS supports Bosch’s belief that the logical next-step for security is to enable customers to repurpose the vast amounts of video data that they now can capture. Interpreting video data directly at source helps to improve levels of security substantially and can also offer clear business advantages.

Gatwick Airport is the UK’s second largest airport and the most efficient single-runway airport in the world. It serves more than 228 destinations in 74 countries for 45 million passengers a year on short and long-haul point-to-point services. It is also a major economic driver for the UK, contributing £5.3 billion to national GDP and generating 85,000 jobs nationally. As a key national infrastructure and major transport hub, Gatwick Airport takes the challenge of maintaining the safety and security of its passengers, visitors and employees seriously. It delivers on this challenge through people and process change, combined with powerful technology enablement and a standardised set of operational procedures and ways of working. This brings together the airport security and operations teams, Sussex Police, Border Force and many more interested parties. Qognify Situator is the technology enabler at the heart of the Gatwick Airport Integrated Security project Gatwick Airport Integrated Security The aim of the Gatwick Airport Integrated Security project was to use all available security elements to deliver a fully automated and rapid response solution for this state-of-the-art facility. Qognify Situator is the technology enabler at the heart of the Gatwick Airport Integrated Security project. It provides a consolidated view and full management of any situation or emergency. The additional integration of Qognify’s Suspect Search real-time video analytics proprietary software to this closely integrated network of security systems, means Gatwick Airport is now able to rapidly identify and pinpoint a suspected criminal/terrorist, or find a lost person in real-time. Suspect Search real-time video analytics A key aim of the project was the standardisation of operations and management across the airport. Security teams throughout the terminals and facilities collaborate effectively, ensuring the full safety of people and assets, along with full compliance and auditing abilities. The whole project helps to support smooth operations and minimise downtime in an intensely busy environment. The power of the CCTV solution is that it gives Gatwick Airport superior situational awareness" By using a combination of Qognify’s situational management and real-time video analytics solutions, the airport has the most powerful, automated and rapid response security system. From fighting terrorism, to combatting crime, or locating misplaced items and even finding a lost child, the security team at Gatwick Airport can now identify any issue and mobilise to wherever it is needed faster than ever before. Robin Lomax, IT Project Manager, CCTV Refresh Project Gatwick Airport explains: “The power of the CCTV solution is that it gives Gatwick Airport superior situational awareness and allows us to command, adapt and respond to any security event, before, during and after it occurs. It enables a quicker speed of response; a more appropriate size of response and it allows us to play back and learn lessons from the incident after the fact.”

To protect its assets and infrastructure, Orange Group, telecommunications companies in Cameroon, has specified and deployed iVMS software, NVRs, decoders and IP cameras from Hikvision, a global supplier of innovative video surveillance products and solutions. Consolidating its leading position in the 23 million population central African country, Orange Cameroon is progressively substituting voice and SMS applications by data communications and value-added services, expanding its 3G and 4G coverage, and upgrading its access network. This move is set to greatly enhance Orange’s network capabilities for new applications and the development of high and very high-speed broadband. Furthermore, Orange Cameroon leads the way in providing mobile payments, thanks to numerous innovations in its Orange Money service, including the Orange Money Visa card. Servitel delivered an effective solution that would provide an answer to the security and management issues being faced  Remote access management Wanting to provide an effective solution to the frequent problem of theft of stock at many Orange sites, and the requirement to help better manage remote access to some key sensitive areas, along with confirming the locations and status of its employees, Orange Cameroon enlisted the help of Servitel. Based in Douala (the seaport and economic hub of Cameroon), Servitel is a specialist systems integrator. To address the issues raised by Orange Cameroon, Servitel, who are adept in the supply of integrated security equipment, communications and network management solutions, worked with the head of security for Orange, to deliver an effective solution that would provide an answer to the security and management issues being faced. Networked surveillance solution Using information derived from a study of the initial proposed eleven Orange sites by the Orange Group security team, and utilising staff feedback, after much consideration, the first phase of the new surveillance system specification was developed and approved. The eleven Orange locations to be covered by the networked solution would include the company’s HQ in Douala, its technical HQ, commercial HQ, and Orange retail and technical sites in 10 cities throughout Cameroon. At the majority of locations covered by the new surveillance system, a mix of entrances and exits, fence line perimeters, tops of buildings, and internal areas were all chosen to be monitored.The efficient H.264+ algorithm also reduced the amount and cost of storage hardware needed"  Multi-site surveillance system Linking the multi-site networked surveillance system internally via Cat6a cable and microwave video transmission to the central control room located at Orange’s HQ, a mix of over 300 Hikvision HD cameras were installed by Servitel. “Even for a highly experienced Mobile Telecom Provider, building a remote IP CCTV network to link to a remote central Control Room is a real challenge in Africa, as there is no existing interurban optical fibre network to utilise,” explained Gregory Ancelin, Director at Servitel.  “So, for this multi-site system, we installed microwave links. We then needed to consider how we would maximise the limited broadband bandwidth available, this is where the Hikvision solution really came in to its own. The Hikvision cameras’ use of the very efficient H.264+ encoding technology enabled the transmission of 1080P HD quality images but using only half the bandwidth of cameras using standard H.264." "The efficient H.264+ algorithm also reduced the amount and cost of storage hardware needed by requiring only half as much disk storage space, and the cameras themselves are very competitively priced considering their high-spec and high quality,” Gregory added. With high-capacity local storage, events and local recordings are maintained safely, and available for retrievalHikvision cameras and NVRs Providing the comprehensive high-quality video surveillance coverage and facilities management that Orange required, the mix of Hikvision camera models installed included, DS-2CD4212F-IS 1.3MP Low-light IR Bullet, DS-2CD2722FWD 2MP WDR Vari-focal Dome, and DS-2DF8236IV-AEL 2MP Ultra WDR Smart PTZ network cameras. At each remote site, the Hikvision cameras are integrated with the access control system, to allow remote verification of entry and access doors, with some access points used to trigger camera snapshots of users.  Local remote site continuous recording is facilitated by Hikvision DS-9600NI-H8 Series NVRs, with built-in network protocol for connectivity with Hikvision and other camera manufacturer IP products. Local recording plays an essential role within the multi-site system, primarily because the data connection between the remote sites and the control room can sometimes be lost for relatively long periods, interrupting live monitoring. But with high-capacity local storage, events and local recordings are maintained safely, and available for retrieval when the connection with the control room is resumed. Combined internal and external IP video solution The mix of internal and external IP cameras specified was installed across three phases and devised to address the varying range of surveillance scene conditions encountered across each of the eleven Orange sites. The mix of technology specified directly addressed issues such as bright-backlit scene lighting, total darkness and the need for wide-area coverage.  At the central control room in Douala, supporting 24/7 live monitoring and reporting of incidents to the Orange security department, Hikvision DS-96128NI-E24/H Embedded NVRs were specified to provide up to 8 Megapixel resolution recording and playback of the multi-site networked surveillance system. Hikvision’s Blazer Pro (256-channel) all-in-one server was also deployed to provide a comprehensive and powerful surveillance video management solution, along with Hikvision DS-6408HDI-T Series decoders, used to provide video stream decoding for a high-resolution 20 x 32” monitor screen video wall. Search and playback of specific events enables control room operators to provide the Orange security team with snapshots or video footage Post-event video investigation Utilising the powerful Hikvision surveillance capability, if and when an event occurs, depending on its severity, control room operators notify the Orange security department with the precise nature and level of the event taking place, furnishing them with detailed information and enabling them to take the appropriate course of action. Post-event investigation is also catered for by the system, where search and playback of specific events enables control room operators to provide the Orange security team with snapshots or video footage whenever requested.  Fewer security personnel Since the system went live, it has contributed a positive impact on the business, with multiple acknowledged security benefits across the Orange estate. “Orange were able to cut their operational costs by reducing the number of required security personnel,” commented Gregory. “Some incidents have already been caught on camera, including incidents related to loss of stock from some sites.” “Regarding the system specification, prior to the Orange Group project we had previously used Hikvision successfully for many other clients, and we were confident that the solution we proposed combined very competitive cost, with superb quality and performance, which was a crucial factor in securing this multi-site contract.” Looking to the future, the Hikvision based scheme has been deemed a great success, and as such, a complimentary phase two installation has been specified and works begun to extend the coverage to further Orange sites across Cameroon.