PoE

AMG, the ISO 9001:2015 approved UK manufacturer and provider of environmentally robust fibre, analogue, IP/Ethernet, wireless & hybrid communication transmission solutions, has released a new 3F outdoor wireless radio transmitter. Extremely compact and lightweight, AMG AMG8870F-06 Skywave 3F Outdoor Wireless Radio has been designed to deliver the highest performance and stability available in the 5GHz 802.11ac class. Providing the ideal solution for capacity demanding point-to-point, or point-to-multipoint network applications, the AMG8870F-06 Skywave 3F wireless radio’s feature-rich operating system is optimised for high-performance wireless communication. High-performance transmission solutions Supporting up to 450Mbps compressed video throughput (depending on the configurable channel size utilised), it utilises a powerful hardware platform incorporating a QCA 9563 CPU (750 MHz), QCA 9882 radio, 64Mbs of RAM and 16Mb flash memory. “The new AMG AMG8870F-06 Skywave 3F Outdoor Wireless Radio complements the existing AMG range of technologies to provide a broad portfolio of high-performance transmission solutions suitable for any application,” says Sara Fisher, Sales and Marketing Director at AMG. “With the options of integrated high-gain 16 and 90 Degree, dual-polarisation MIMO 2x2 technology, directional antennae (up to 6Km range), and models accepting a choice of external antennae for greater range, the new wireless range is the ideal choice to support any size of system project.” AMG8870F-06 Features Base station / Satellite, PtP Smart Station Coordination Function (SSCF) Up to 6km (integrated antenna) Up to 500Mbps compressed video throughput 5/10/20/40/80MHz Channelisation support User configurable gain up to 23dBm (30dBm max) 24V passive PoE Extremely compact and light IP66 rated enclosure -40°C to +65°C operating range

Digital Watchdog® (DW®), the pioneer in digital recorders, surveillance cameras and related management software, announces the release of our new SiteWatch™ and NightWatch™ lines of motion detectors and illuminators. The new products are the perfect additions to any surveillance system that requires robust external lighting and cutting-edge motion detection. All DW® detectors and illuminators are fully integrated with DW Spectrum® IPVMS and can be controlled and managed remotely from the software. Enhanced security applications The DW-DTLA500 laser sensor knows the exact position of an object and offers adaptive alarm settings The DW-DTPIRIPW and DW-DTMWIPW SiteWatch™ motion detectors are quad-element passive infra-red (PIR) external movement detectors that combine advanced signal processing and unique optical systems. The detector’s quad PIR sensing module is equipped with two (2) volt free and two (2) negative switched outputs with a programmable beam range of up to 98.5ft (30m), avoiding boundary overspill and offering truly exceptional resistance to false alarms. The DW-DTLA500 SiteWatch™ laser sensor monitors and locates intrusions for enhanced security applications or where physical fences are not desirable or possible. The 1640ft (500m) sensor works without reflectors and reacts in fractions of a second. The DW-DTLA500 laser sensor knows the exact position of an object and offers adaptive alarm settings. The NightWatch™ outdoor illuminators are IP-enabled Infra-Red (IR) (DW-ILIRIP850, DW-ILIRIP940) and White-Light LED (DW-ILWLIPM) illuminators. Effective perimeter protection The illuminators incorporate the latest surface mount LEDs, combined with enhanced optical output and outstanding reliability to provide users with smart lighting solutions for a wide range of applications. The NightWatch™ lighting includes an interchangeable lens pack to deliver a variety of angles out of the box; this provides users with the flexibility to create different elliptical beam profiles to suit specific lifestyle requirements. The illuminators can include up to three illuminators as an ideal lighting solution for any of DW’s surveillance cameras The illuminators can include up to three illuminators as an ideal lighting solution for any of DW’s surveillance cameras, including panoramic multi-sensor and fisheye models. “With the addition of SiteWatch™ IP-enabled motion detectors, we extend the power of DW Spectrum‘s robust rules engine with effective perimeter protection,” said Patrick Kelly, Director of IP Sales, DW®. “When combined with the NightWatch™ line of IP-enabled high-performance illuminators, which provide high-quality lighting, we achieve maximum image quality and powerful deterrence capabilities. SiteWatch™ and NightWatch™ are a natural complement to our MEGApix® line of cameras.” SiteWatch Features External movement detector Quad element PIR sensor Passive infra-red (PIR) and microwave detection technologies Two (2) volt-free outputs Two (2) negative-switched outputs Up to 98.5ft (30m) detection (DW-DTPIRIPW and DW-DTMWIPW) Up to 1640ft (500m) detection (DW-DTLA500) Exceptional resistance to false alarms Advanced signal processing, quad pyro and optical systems Trigger lights and smart devices when movement is detected 10º - 70º detection angle (DW-DTPIRIPW and DW-DTMWIPW) Direct integration with DW Spectrum® IPVMS Intruder notifications Set up lux-level events to operate blinds and curtains Environmental temperature monitoring to help manage internal air conditioning and heating 20 fully adaptable alarm zones to meet any situation (DW-DTLA500) IP alarms and relay output (DW-DTLA500) Alarm notifications (DW-DTLA500) Web Interface built-in PoE class 1 and 2 and DC48V IP environmental-rated housing NightWatch Features Infra-Red (IR) and White-light LED illuminators Interchangeable lens pack to deliver a variety of angles out of the box Create different elliptical beam profiles Coverage distance up to 374’ (115m) (DW-ILIRIP940, DW-ILWLIPM) Coverage distance up to 614’ (187m) (DW-ILIRIP850) Configure lights to switch on when motion is detected Activate white-light to deter intruders (DW-ILWLIPM) Adjustable photocell and illumination levels 850nm – 940nm wavelength (DW-ILIRIP850, DW-ILIRIP940) Visible Spectrum wavelength (400- 750nm) (DW-ILWLIPM) Web Interface built-in High-power Dual-Core™ LEDs, with advanced, current limited, integral control circuitry IP66 environmental-rated dust-tight and water-resistant IK 09-rated impact-resistant

Transition Networks, Inc., a provider of edge connectivity solutions, announces it will showcase its Power-over-Ethernet Plus (PoE+) and Power-over-Ethernet Plus Plus (PoE++) switches for power and connectivity of smart city Internet of Things (IoT) and security and surveillance devices at the Global Security Exchange (GSX) show. GSX is the security industry’s flagship event, bringing together cyber, operational and physical security professionals from across the private and public sectors. The event takes place September 8-12, 2019, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Transition Networks will exhibit in booth 175. Smart city applications The embedded DMS feature includes simple and time-saving capabilities for test and turn-up of systems Transition Networks will display its wide assortment of PoE switches, including its Managed Hardened Gigabit PoE+ Switch (SISPM1040-384-LRT-C), which are ideal solutions for providing power and connectivity in intelligent transportation and other smart city applications. The switches simplify device and power management in outdoor environments through Transition Networks’ Device Management System (DMS) software. The embedded DMS feature includes simple and time-saving capabilities for test and turn-up of systems, such as automatic discovery of connected devices and the creation of interactive maps allowing installers or administrators to document baseline deployments or to monitor and conduct diagnostics on connected devices directly from the switch. The many management capabilities enable users to pinpoint issues and quickly take action remotely, either eliminating truck rolls or allowing technicians to be better prepared to resolve issues in a single service call. Remotely reboot devices Transition Networks will also demonstrate its Self-Enclosed Managed Hardened Gigabit Ethernet PoE++ Switch (SESPM1040-541-LT-xx Series), which recently earned a 2019 IoT Evolution Product of the Year Award. The all-in-one switch features everything needed—outdoor-rated cabinet, switch, power and surge protection—preconfigured and optimised for powering and connecting security cameras, wireless access points, and other IP-addressable devices mounted on street lights, buildings or in parking facilities. The switches allows users to remotely reboot devices that may have experienced a power failure The switch, equipped with near-field communications (NFC) and a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio, can be scanned to configure right in the box and remotely accessed for troubleshooting through its mobile app installed on a smart phone or tablet. As with most Transition Networks switches it includes auto power reset (APR) functionality, which allows users to remotely reboot devices that may have experienced a power failure, saving time and operational expenses. Smart building infrastructure              The future of smart buildings will also be on display via Transition Networks’ coalition with Berk-Tek and Cree Lighting through the designation of a utility LAN (uLAN™) supporting smart building infrastructure. Transition Networks PoE++ switching plays a key role in delivering the connectivity, bandwidth and power required by intelligent lighting and other connected devices in smart building infrastructure. “Many cities and other organisations are beginning to implement smart city technology and IoT solutions to enable more efficient and safer operations,” said Anita Kumar, Director, Product Management and Software Engineering of Transition Networks. “Transition Networks is committed to developing solutions that meet these needs, and we look forward to engaging with the security community at GSX each year to learn more about how we can continue to support them.”

IDIS, Korea’s in-country surveillance manufacturer, is extending its award-winning DirectIP camera range with the introduction of its new flagship 2MP 36x IR PTZ outdoor-ready camera for fast and precise pan/tilt/zoom performance. The new DC-S6283HRX builds on the specification of IDIS’s successful PTZ models, with a high-grade lens combined with advanced sensor technology and finely tuned, client-side image processing, allowing the capture of vivid, true colour video in extremely low light conditions. Excellent performance at long distances, with minimum motion blur, makes the DC-S6283HRX ideal for perimeters, shopping centres, stadia, outdoor spaces and public area applications. PTZ camera with intelligent features The camera benefits from IDIS’ signature true plug-and-play, one-click configuration and features 36x optical zoomThe camera benefits from IDIS’ signature true plug-and-play, one-click configuration and features 36x optical zoom, IR up to 350 metres, true wide dynamic range (WDR), digital image stabilisation (DIS), a built-in heater and a vandal proof casing. “Designed for 24/7 accurate pan/tilt/zoom operation, this new light enhancing PTZ camera delivers unparalleled performance and exceptional detail when zooming. The camera is equipped with a variety of intelligent features and can move between pre-set positions and zoom in automatically in response to detected events. The result is maximum protection for a wide range of applications,” said James Min, Managing Director, IDIS Europe. IDIS Smart UX Controls The user experience is enhanced with IDIS Smart UX Controls, which is an award-winning, advanced and simple to use interface featuring intuitive slingshot and rubber-band style controls. Operators can smoothly and seamlessly follow moving objects in real-time with ground-breaking accuracy by panning images at different speeds and in different directions – literally without lifting a finger – by using a CTRL button and mouse combination. The camera uses H.264 and H.265 combined with IDIS Intelligent Codec to deliver significant bandwidth and storage savings and benefits from low Power over Ethernet (PoE) energy consumption. Easy to deploy 2MP PTZ camera The camera automatically records to an integral 256GB SD card and transfers data to the NVR once connection is restoredThe risk of gaps in footage is eliminated with IDIS Smart Failover. In the event of network instability, the camera automatically records to an integral 256GB SD card and transfers data to the network video recorder (NVR) once connection is restored, which avoids the need for engineer call outs to retrieve footage.  “We are listening and responding to customer demand with our new 2MP PTZ camera, providing an easy to deploy, low-storage and bandwidth solution for wide area coverage and perimeter detection,” said James Min, Managing Director of IDIS Europe. “It’s particularly suited to town centre and city surveillance, stadia, outdoor retail parks, manufacturing and logistics sites and high-security perimeter applications where outstanding performance and ease-of-use combined with a low total cost of ownership are becoming essential.”

Bird Home Automation, a pioneer in IP video intercom technology, has released the first indoor station for its DoorBird door intercom product line. The A1101 indoor station displays a live video feed from the DoorBird door station and provides 2-way audio communication with visitors. With a customisable high-resolution touchscreen display and hard keys for commonly used functions, the A1101 indoor station is intuitive and flexible. With the release of the A1101, DoorBird can be a solution for all projects requiring a dedicated intercom endpoint. DoorBird now provides both the flexibility of an app-based video intercom system and the reliability of a wall-mounted station. The indoor station can be paired with all of DoorBird’s single-family residence and multi-tenant models. Remote configuration via DoorBird app The A1101 can connect to the network via Wi-Fi or a hardwired connection and can be powered via PoE. Settings are configured remotely via the DoorBird app. The indoor station communicates with the DoorBird intercom over the LAN and can provide the user door entry control and, in MDU projects, elevator control. There is no limit to how many indoor stations can be added to a DoorBird system. The A1101 has a sleek, low profile design. Like all DoorBird products, the indoor station is designed and built in Berlin, Germany. The A1101 indoor station is now available in the US and Canada. Bird Home Automation will present it at CEDIA Expo, the leading event in connected technology, which takes place from September 10-14, 2019 in Denver, Colorado.

Luxul, the innovator of IP networking solutions for AV integrators, announces its technology lineup for CEDIA Expo 2019, taking place September 12-14 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. In Legrand | AV's booth 905, Luxul will exhibit a wide range of solutions that deliver reliable, high-performance networks in smart homes, including a new wireless mesh solution and cloud remote monitoring and management system; Self-Healing managed Gigabit switches; the next generation of wireless controller technology; ‘Good, Better, Best’ dual-band wireless access points (AP); and dealer tools designed to speed up installations and deliver exceptional WiFi experiences. Advanced network configurations Visitors to the Legrand | AV booth will also be able to get a glimpse of the new Epic Mesh" "The network is an essential element of any connected home, and at CEDIA Expo we'll be highlighting a range of solutions to ensure that it's rock solid — from routers and switches to wireless APs," said Mike Grubb, vice president of marketing at Luxul. "Visitors to the Legrand | AV booth will also be able to get a glimpse of the new Epic Mesh — the first wireless mesh solution designed for the necessities of the CEDIA market. Top it off with educational sessions covering topics such as Wave 2 technology and advanced network configurations, and its shaping up to be an amazing show for Luxul dealers." Making its debut at CEDIA Expo 2019, Luxul's Epic Mesh kit comes with two dual-purpose mesh nodes that can each serve as either a router or satellite. Cloud remote monitoring Simple to install, integrators turn one of the two nodes into a router in under two minutes using the Luxul Easy Setup App. The other becomes the satellite node, which is placed around the residence to create a powerful wireless mesh. There is no need to run additional wires; integrators just plug the satellite node into an available outlet. An innovative antenna design and 4x2x2 antenna array enable two 2x2 client access radios and a powerful 4x4 5-GHz dedicated backhaul channel to ensure strong connectivity back to the router for the delivery of high-speed internet anywhere in the home. Additional satellite nodes can be incorporated as needed to accommodate installations of any size. In addition, Luxul will introduce a new cloud remote monitoring and management solution for integrators. This new solution will be a free service to integrators managing customers' systems remotely, freeing them up from rolling a truck to service a client. PoE-connected devices The units empower integrators with two advanced features: auto-recovery and power scheduling Highlighted managed Gigabit switches featuring self-healing capability will include the 18-port/16 PoE+ L2/L3 AMS-1816P and 12-port/8 PoE+ XMS-1208P. The units empower integrators with two advanced features: auto-recovery and power scheduling. With auto-recovery, devices connected to the switches by PoE are automatically rebooted when they fall offline or become unresponsive. With power scheduling, integrators can trigger the switches to power PoE-connected devices on or off based on any schedule they create within the switch interface. Also on display will be the next-generation XWC-2000 wireless controller, which delivers twice the capacity of its predecessor with support for up to 32 APs for large-scale projects. Newly deployed APs are automatically added for plug-and-play installation, and Luxul's Roam Assist™ technology for active roaming is built into the wireless controller, ensuring mobile devices are always connected to the best AP for the highest performance. Dual-band technology Luxul will also showcase a ‘Good, Better, and Best’ offering of wireless Apex™ APs. For smaller networks where budgets are a concern, Luxul's ‘Good’ XAP-810 is a cost-effective wireless AP offering 802.11ac 2x2 dual-band technology and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1200Mbps. The ‘Better’ XAP-1510 features 802.11ac 3x3 dual-band technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1900Mbps throughout a facility. The ‘Best’ XAP-1610 — Luxul's fastest ever — features advanced Wave 2 4x4 MU-MIMO 802.11ac technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 3167Mbps. Luxul's Easy Setup App allows integrators to install a Luxul wireless router and up to two wireless APs Highlighted dealer tools will include Luxul's Easy Setup App and the company's free network design service (Customer Assurance Program, or CAP). Available as a free download from the Apple and Android stores, Luxul's Easy Setup App allows integrators to install a Luxul wireless router and up to two wireless APs at the same time, in under two minutes, from the convenience of a mobile phone. Wireless network designs Luxul's CAP provides dealers with certified wired and wireless network designs, which are guaranteed to deliver WiFi networks that meet their customers' reliability and performance requirements. Over 2,800 certified networks have been provided to the company's dealer network in the program's first year. Finally, Luxul is excited to wrap up its Tee Shirt Revival — a fun challenge it ran with its followers from July 12 through Aug. 9 — at the show. Show attendees that are ‘caught’ on the floor wearing Luxul swag (i.e. past years' CEDIA shirts, hats, shirts they earned from the Tee Shirt Revival) will be entered to win a backpack stuffed full of Legrand | AV gear with an MSRP value of $1,000. One backpack will be given out per day, for a total of three backpacks to be won throughout the show.

Rodrigue Zbinden, CEO at Morphean, discusses the business benefits from merging video surveillance and access control technologies as demand for ACaaS grows. The big question facing businesses today is how they will use the data that they possess to unlock new forms of value using emerging technologies such as the cloud, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence. Some data is better utilised than others: financial services were quick to recognise the competitive advantages in exploiting technology to improve customer service, detect fraud and improve risk assessment. In the world of physical security, however, we’re only just beginning to understand the potential of the data that our systems gather as a part of their core function. Benefits of ‘Integrated access control’ The first thing to look for is how multiple sources of data can be used to improve physical security functionsWhat many businesses have yet to realise is that many emerging technologies come into their own when used across multiple sources of data. In physical security, for example, we’re moving from discussions about access control and CCTV as siloed functions, to platforms that combine information for analysis from any source, and applying machine learning algorithms to deliver intelligent insights back to the business. ‘Integrated access control’ then looks not just to images or building management, but to images, building management, HR databases and calendar information, all at the same time. And some of the benefits are only now starting to become clear. The first thing to look for, of course, is how multiple sources of data can be used to improve physical security functions. For example, by combining traditional access control data, such as when a swipe card is used, with a video processing platform capable of facial recognition, a second factor of authentication is provided without the need to install separate biometric sensors. CCTV cameras are already deployed in most sensitive areas, so if a card doesn’t match the user based on HR records, staff can be quickly alerted. Making the tools cost-effective In a similar vein, if an access card is used by an employee, who is supposed to be on holiday according to the HR record, then video data can be used to ensure the individual’s identity and that the card has not been stolen – all before a human operator becomes involved. This is driving growth in ‘access control as a service’ (ACaaS), and the end-to-end digitalisation of a vital business functionThese capabilities are not new. What is, however, is the way in which cloud-based computing platforms for security analytics, which absorb information from IP-connected cameras, make the tools much more cost effective, accessible and easier to manage than traditional on-site server applications. In turn, this is driving growth in ‘access control as a service’ (ACaaS), and the end-to-end digitalisation of a vital business function. With this system set up, only access control hardware systems are deployed on premise while the software and access control data are shifted to a remote location and provided as a service to users on a recurring monthly subscription. The benefits of such an arrangement are numerous but include avoiding large capital investments, greater flexibility to scale up and down, and shifting the onus of cybersecurity and firmware updates to the vendor. Simple installation and removal of endpoints What’s more, because modern video and access control systems transmit data via the IP network, installation and removal of endpoints are simple, requiring nothing more than PoE and Wi-Fi. Of all the advantages of the ‘as a service’ model, it’s the rich data acquired from ACaaS that makes it so valuable, and capable of delivering business benefits beyond physical security. Managers are constantly looking for better quality of information to inform decision making, and integrated access control systems know more about operations than you might think. Integrating lighting systems with video feeds and access control creates the ability to control the lightsRight now, many firms are experimenting with ways to find efficiencies and reduce costs. For example, lights that automatically turn off to save energy are common in offices today, but can be a distraction if employees have to constantly move around to trigger motion detectors. Integrating lighting systems with video feeds and access control creates the ability to control the lights depending on exactly who is in the room and where they are sitting. Tracking the movement of employees Camera data has been used in retail to track the movement of customers in stores, helping managers to optimise displays and position stocks. The same technology can be used to map out how employees move around a workspace, finding out where productivity gains can be made by moving furniture around or how many desks should be provisioned. Other potential uses of the same data could be to look for correlations between staff movement – say to a store room – and sales spikes, to better predict stock ordering. What makes ACaaS truly exciting is it is still a very new field, and we’re only just scratching the surface of the number of ways that it can be used to create new sources of value. As smart buildings and smart city technology evolves, more and more open systems will become available, offering more ways to combine, analyse and draw insights from data. Within a few years, it will become the rule, rather than the exception, and only grow in utility as it does.

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

2017 was quite an interesting and eventful year for the physical security industry. The economy has been robust and technology has become progressively sophisticated—with interactive services, cloud computing and network-based solutions taking charge to provide new insights to installers and their end-user customers. The Internet of Things is creating increasingly integrated solutions, with a heightened emphasis on total connectivity. Changing security expectations World events have also put the spotlight on the need for comprehensive security at public events, tourist attractions and schools and campuses. Security is an expectation and systems integrators are becoming trusted advisors to their customers, who are looking to them to solve problems or issues. Residential systems are more robust and now, are migrating to the commercial side of the business. There’s a blurring of the lines of technology—many of the products that come to the security industry originate from the consumer side. This proposition is also changing expectations by both residential and commercial customers, who want common, easy operation from their smartphone or user interface. Unexpected was some of the biggest deals in the industry, including acquisitions by dominant companies who grew even larger and continued ongoing consolidation on the manufacturing side. Those who remain will need to be progressive and step up their game with the latest proven technologies. Selling hardware isn’t the end game any longer. It’s providing solutions that generate revenue for security dealers and offer a solid return on investment for the end-user. In addition, solutions need to be easier for the user, and integrate many different systems and components across the enterprise. Cybersecurity safeguards End users want to get the most out of their solutions—and they want to be able to have more than safety and security. They are looking for the types of products that yield insights into system performance and give them the data the need for greater control and to proactively address any challenges or problems before they occur. Downtime is not an option and therefore, there’s an increased emphasis on consistent power so solutions are always on and running reliably. For security dealers and integrators, physical security and cybersecurity services will be part of their offerings and no longer separate disciplines Cybersecurity is a dominant conversation in the security industry these days and that buzz will continue into 2018. Because solutions are increasingly network connected, they have vulnerabilities that will have to be addressed by service providers and manufacturers. Manufacturers will need to take the upper hand in providing hardened products—testing and certifying for cybersecurity safeguards. That is not an easy task and can be expensive, but it needs to be done. Because cybersecurity is in constant evolution, many will go the route of outsourcing this component of their manufacturing to third parties well-versed in threat detection and hardening. Hardened products will also need to evolve with new emerging attacks. For security dealers and integrators, physical security and cybersecurity services will be part of their offerings and no longer separate disciplines. Intelligent access control solutions Manufacturers no longer operate in silos. They are working with systems integrators to more fully understand their needs and those of the end-user. Manufacturers are also partnering with technology providers—bringing in the expertise of others so their solutions are comprehensive and holistic. We will continue to see integration of formerly disparate components, open systems and open APIs. There will also be strong migration to access control systems with edge intelligence and power over Ethernet, leveraging existing cabling for network connectivity. The winners will be those who take the lead in providing cyber secured and hardened products, as well as companies who partner with others to bring best of breed solutions to market. The losers will be those who continue to develop proprietary, closed systems and fail to recognise the importance of network connectivity for real-time, proactive reporting. Without networked power, the facility cannot yield the proper insights it needs to stay reliably connected 24/7 Ongoing partner success LifeSafety Power® has been working consistently and diligently on elevating the status of power from unintelligent hardware device to network-connected component that yields rich data for the user and allows the installer to provide remote monitoring and managed power services. We have changed the paradigm of power but there’s additional work to do to get people to understand the new, critical role power plays in comprehensive enterprise and campus security. Now, security installers can help the end user know what’s happening with locks, access control, gates or other connected solutions and fix problems before they happen. Without networked power, the facility cannot yield the proper insights it needs to stay reliably connected 24/7. We have also had continued, ongoing successes with our many partners in the access control community and that’s where we will further focus our efforts in 2018—working with leading security solution providers to present the best technologies and solutions that are reliable, certified and present the types of insights security dealers need to offer customers to provide the highest levels of service. This will also help security dealers and integrators differentiate themselves and compete more effectively in the crowded marketplace.

The excitement of ISC West 2019 continued until the very end – almost. Exhilarated by the first two busy days of the show, attendees and exhibitors seemed to welcome a slower third day. There were no complaints about booth traffic, and still plenty of thoughtful conversations taking place, everyone determined to maximise the value of face time with customers until the last second. Building an IoT ecosystem in SAST At a show lacking in high-profile new technology announcements, the biggest news is perhaps the possible long-term impact of first-time exhibitor Security and Safety Things (SAST), a Bosch startup. SAST is building a new Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for the security and safety industry, including an app store, an open and secure camera operating system, a software developer environment, and a portal for integrators. SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable" Their 1,800-square-foot booth was big for a first-time exhibitor, and the American football theme was well received, as was the substance of the company’s effort to drive innovation in a highly fragmented industry. Seeing actual cameras and apps on display at the ISC West booth is “more real than PowerPoint,” says Hartmut Schaper, CEO of Security and Safety Things (SAST). “For us, seeing is believing,” says Schaper. “It was important for us to show cameras and apps for the first time. People are surprised at how far down the road we are.” “This dynamic will change in the industry,” says Schaper. “SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable. Soon there will be more processing power on the edge. People will find a way to use the extra processing power.” “Seeing is believing” at the SAST booth at ISC West 2019, where CEO Hartmut Schaper showed several manufacturers’ cameras whose functionality can be expanded using Android apps Developing more apps Several large manufacturers are already involved in the initiative, but there are some holdouts. “We are having ongoing talks with everyone to convince them to join,” Schaper says. “Some of the bigger ones will come around. We are not a camera manufacturer, and not a threat. We are owned by Bosch but are managed completely separately. There will be more and more apps developed, and momentum will increase.” “A year from now we will have successful customers we can talk about, and more camera manufacturers on board,” he says. “This year we are taxiing on the runway, but next year we will have cleared the tarmac and be climbing.” If the approach succeeds, their first appearance at ISC West will be remembered as historic. Future of surveillance cameras Off the show floor, in a nearby meeting room, chip maker Ambarella demonstrated technologies that will be driving the future of video surveillance cameras, including more intelligence at the edge. “People have been using more traditional video analytics approaches, though most of them have been disappointing,” says Chris Day, Ambarella VP of Marketing and Business Development. “What is ground-breaking now is the use of neural networks and real artificial intelligence, which has increased capabilities 100x. "You will see camera products coming out over the next year that are massively better than before. It’s not just incrementally getting better. Cameras will be coming out later this year with analytics that are absolutely amazing based on [the new chips.]” Larry Anderson, editor-in-chief of SecurityInformed.com, talks about Ambarella HDR and Low Light Solutions with Jerome Gigot, Senior Director of Marketing for Ambarella. (Source: Ambarella) New systems-on-chips Ambarella has introduced four new systems-on-chips (SoCs) in the last year, with emphasis on computer vision (video analytics). The newest is the S6LM Camera SoC with 4K imaging technology, unveiled at ISC West. The S6LM includes Ambarella's latest high dynamic range (HDR) and low-light processing technology, highly efficient 4K H.264 and H.265 encoding, multi-streaming, on-chip 360-degree de-warping, cyber-security features, and a quad-core CPU. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff" “With so much focus on AI and computer vision, I’m concerned the industry has taken focus away from low light imaging, wide dynamic range and image quality,” says Day. “You have to see the details in an image. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff, it’s all included in one chip.” From products to systems With a new general manager on board (Daniel Gundlach, formerly of Bosch), FLIR Systems Security Division is continuing its transition from a product company to a solutions provider, removing internal silos to clear the path. FLIR offers a strong end-to-end portfolio for Smart Cities applications, including the TruWITNESS line of body worn cameras and newly acquired Aeryon drones. FLIR’s historical strength as the top thermal imaging provider continues, but today they are much more than a thermal imaging company, offering visible day/night cameras, infrared pan-tilt-zoom cameras, video management systems and other technologies to provide a broader platform. FLIR's Saros security cameras combine multiple security technologies, including thermal sensors, high-resolution visible imaging, IR and visible LED illuminators, onboard analytics and two-way audio and digital input/outputs. Products in critical infrastructure applications In addition to Safe Cities, FLIR installs a range of products in critical infrastructure applications, such as oil and gas and electric utilities. Ports also tend to combine traditional security with an emphasis on perimeter protection, a FLIR strength. Existing perimeter protection applications can open opportunities for the broader platform. For example, installing a complete system in an airport that already uses FLIR’s thermal technology represents “low-hanging fruit” for the company, says Fredrik Wallberg, FLIR Director of Marketing – Security and Intelligent Transportation Systems. Ambarella demonstrates its latest imaging technology for video security during ISC West 2019 (Source: Ambarella) Integrated solutions Bosch's focus At the Bosch booth, there was an emphasis on integrated solutions and the customer experience. A mock retail store setup demonstrated systems such as overhead cameras for people counting and alarm communication to provide an alert if a refrigerator door is left ajar. A wireless panic button generates a silent alarm, communicates with a 2-way radio, and triggers a camera to focus on the area. An AVIOTEK IP camera alarms if there is a fire, based on observing actual flames rather than smoke. A new Bosch fixed dome camera series offers wireless remote commissioning capabilities that reduce installation and set-up time by up to 75 percent. Set-up only takes three steps: install the mounting bracket, connect the cables, and attach the camera module. Commissioning can be done wirelessly or remotely with no need for ladders or lifts. Dahua marks five years in the U.S. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view Time flies in the security industry, and it has already been five years since the Dahua brand entered the U.S. market. Today the company offers products through ADI and some 20 distributors, and has more than 30 technical consultants and technical support employees and 50 or 60 sales people in the field (including independent rep firms). “We are growing,” says Tim Shen, Director of Marketing at Dahua Technology USA. “It’s exciting for the company.” At ISC West, Dahua introduced a line of Multi-Flex panoramic cameras with lens modules that can be repositioned along an internal track for 180-, 270- or 360-degree views, providing flexibility for integrators. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view. Cost savings come from ease of installation (one camera instead of four) and only one VMS license (instead of four). AI and night colour cameras  Dahua is also emphasising its Night Colour cameras that remain in full colour mode regardless of how dark it gets. There is no IR illumination or IR cut filter – the camera stays in color mode and displays any visible image in colour with as little as 1 lux of illumination. The 2 megapixel version is on display at ISC West, and a 4 megapixel version will come in the fall. A year ago at ISC West, Dahua emphasised its initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI) in order to position the company as a technology leader. This year, the message was more general – ‘Power Through Technology.’ The range of Dahua technologies includes AI, Night Colour, Starlight low-light imaging, fifth-generation HDCVI, and e-POE (Enhanced Power over Ethernet). Dahua USA's Director of Marketing says "the market itself likes AI", and expects more AI applications to follow (Source: Dahua USA's LinkedIn) “When we present AI to customers, they are happy, but when it comes to the budget they don’t have it,” says Shen. “The market itself likes AI, and it’s very much a buzzword. But we still need a proof of concept that it can do something good for end users. We need time to develop broader applications. The ‘smart retail’ market and education are good places to start.” he says. “AI is for project business,” adds Jennifer Hackenburg, Dahua’s Senior Product Marketing Manager. “Projects that are looking at AI haven’t come to fruition yet; they are still in the pipeline. It’s not for your everyday business. They are implementing it, but not as fast.” Access control beyond doors Access control should extend beyond doors. That’s the message I heard at the ASSA ABLOY booth, which displayed a variety of physical locks and intelligent access systems. An example is traffic cabinets, those metal boxes in public locations that could potentially be accessed to invade an internal network. ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces throughout an enterprise. The company’s ‘security continuum’ message draws attention to the need for the right level of security for the right opening, using existing infrastructure as well as new electronic technologies. “Customers face a combination of non-traditional access control and questions on how they can secure things that are not doors,” says David Corbin, ASSA ABLOY Director of Access Control Accessories. The security message is resonating beyond the traditional security department to involve other stakeholders in an enterprise, including IT directors. There is new awareness of vulnerabilities that have been there forever, such as traffic cabinets that can be opened with a key purchased on eBay.

End users at ASIS 2017 in Dallas may feel overwhelmed by all the new technology on display, but often their integrator partners can offer a helping hand. Traffic continued through much of Day 2 of the ASIS exhibition, but the foot traffic appeared to slow considerably as the day wore on. Convergint seeks closer manufacturer relationship Integrators are prominent at ASIS and play an important role connecting end user customers with manufacturers' products that meet their need. "We are taking them by the hand and introducing them to our [manufacturer] partners and to the solutions," said Tony Varco, Vice President Security Division, Convergint Technologies. Convergint has a global presence and is one of several large integrators with booths at ASIS. "We want a closer relationship with the manufacturers we work with," Varco said. Previously manufacturers may have preferred to keep their distance from end users, but not anymore. "They want us to facilitate the relationship between manufacturers and customers at a very high level," says Varco. In addition to their booth presence, Convergint personnel are escorting their big clients through the exhibit hall, one-on-one, to view the latest products. "It's not about whiz-bang technology, but about the technology that can produce business results. We may spend half a day or several days, depending on the client. We map it out ahead of time, and talk with them weeks ahead about their objectives. They may not be looking to make an immediate investment, but more looking ahead three to five years: These are the things you need to start thinking about." Digitising building systems "It's not about whiz-bang technology, but about the technology that can produce business results" Varco sees a trend in the market to digitise more building systems, including power-over-Ethernet lighting (using low-voltage LEDs), occupancy sensors, HVAC, fire alarms/life safety and physical security. These technologies are being combined in the "digital ceiling," which refers literally to the space above the ceiling tiles of a building and the network and cabling infrastructure that accommodates all the digitised operations for various functions. As a large-scale integrator, Varco points to managing customer expectations as a challenge, both at ASIS and in general. "What the customer expects and what's being sold to them may be two different things," he said. "When solving problems and creating business outcomes, you have to control expectations so they understand what they're getting, and what they're not getting. If the customer doesn't believe they got what they were sold, it causes problems." ADT and cybersecurity Cybersecurity continues to be top-of-mind, both among attendees and exhibitors. Protection 1 (now ADT) is a company that has been talking about cybersecurity and other networking issues for several years now, dating back to before it was such as "hot" topic. "It's irresponsible to just provide physical security without addressing what that entails in your cyber environment," said Morgan Harris, ADT's Senior Director of Enterprise Solutions. Ironically, security systems are often the cause of vulnerabilities on a network, and ADT's cybersecurity and network management approach seeks to minimise the vulnerabilities.  Avigilon Blue is a subscription-based cloud service that enables integrators to manage more sites with fewer resources ADT's network operations center offers health management, network services and cybersecurity to business customers. Services that previously targeted national commercial accounts are now being brought downmarket to help smaller commercial customers, which can be even more vulnerable to cyber-attack. Meeting cybersecurity challenges The entire market -- manufacturers, integrators and end users -- all have a stake in meeting cybersecurity challenges, according to Harris. "Everyone has ownership in it," he said. "It starts with the products, but cybersecurity also has to be considered during installation, operation and maintenance." "We try to be out on the edge looking at vulnerabilities," Harris said. "If you are using our managed video recorders, we can push a patch out to the devices fairly quickly." He provided an example of a recent deployment of video systems at a national grocery store chain – more than 300 locations installed over 90 days. A couple of weeks into the deployment, a Windows vulnerability was discovered related to the NVR. Because ADT had a remediation plan in place, they were agile enough to solve the vulnerability problem and continue to deploy on schedule. Leveraging Protection 1's historically successful approach to customerservice has benefited both customers and employees Bringing back national commercial accounts to ADT (which gave up the business in a non-compete provision when the company separated from Tyco) is just one of the benefits of combining Protection 1 and ADT, which will use the more familiar ADT brand going forward. New national account business has also been added by recent acquisitions. Cloud service platforms for video Since the merger with Protection 1, ADT has been working to up its game by improving customer service, drastically lowering customer wait times, and replacing automated audio recordings with live people. Leveraging Protection 1's historically successful approach to customer service has benefited both customers and employees, who don't have to deal with as many angry and frustrated customers. Therefore, employee turnover is going down. "We are proud of the results we are seeing," said Bob Tucker, ADT Director, Corporate Affairs. Cloud services are another hot topic at ASIS 2017, and Avigilon is the latest company to introduce a cloud service platform for video. Avigilon Blue is a subscription-based cloud service that enables integrators to manage more sites with fewer resources, and to add recurring monthly revenue (RMR) based on site subscriptions. A twist is use of "self-monitoring”, in effect, self-learning video analytics, to provide alarm notifications to bring attention to events as triggered by analytics. The customer can also view live and/or archived video through a browser. The system is powered by Microsoft Azure.

With global events putting security at the forefront of everyone’s minds, IFSEC International 2017 was a chance for the industry to come out in force. Over 600 exhibitors and numerous seminars kept visitors informed on the latest innovations in security products, solutions and best practice. Despite the challenging heatwave, exhibitors were raring to go for the three mercifully air-conditioned days of the exhibition. SourceSecurity.com took to the show floor to check out what exhibitors were talking about. [Pictured: Nedap Security Management welcomes new Managing Director Fokko van der Zee] Increasing ROI in vertical markets Sustainable partnerships overtake integrations Power in the hands of the customer Adding value in vertical markets The big question for many exhibitors was how to stand out on a show floor (and in a market) dominated by larger commoditised brands. Manufacturers rose to the challenge by deliberately positioning themselves as solutions providers within specific vertical markets, rather than trying to compete on low cost products. For Vivotek, the Taiwanese IP surveillance specialists, the emphasis was on adding value in particular markets such as transport and retail. Alongside a lineup of 180° and 360° solutions, the manufacturer debuted its 12-megapixel fisheye camera, FE9391-EV, whose 360° lens technology makes it ideal for crowd detection and loitering-time analysis in the retail sector, in addition to traditional security applications. Vivotek’s vertical market focus was further reinforced by demonstrations of its integrations with SeeTec and Wavestore. This collaboration forms part of the company’s Solution Integration Alliance programme, which aims to create better end-user solutions through integration of Vivotek products with partner technologies. Collaborating on technology and customer support This was a theme which resonated across the show floor. The Promise Technology stand firmly emphasised collaboration, with presentations from the storage provider’s IP camera partners including IronYun and Axis Communications. Particular importance was given to education and training for partners and end users to get the most out of integrated solutions. The emphasis for Promise Technology was on education and training for partners and end users Similarly, for Nedap Security Management, the increasing demand for connected systems means that open platform solutions are essential to excel within the security industry. As well as welcoming new Managing Director Fokko van der Zee, Nedap used its presence at the show to inform visitors about new and ongoing partnerships with key players in the industry. These partnerships include ASSA ABLOY, Touchless Biometric Systems and Milestone Systems. According to Jeroen Harmsen, Nedap’s Director of Product Management, the ability to provide collaborative solutions is becoming a key differentiator in the security sector and beyond. While many companies pursue product integrations, what makes sustainable partnerships stand out is ongoing cooperation on issues such as customer support. This, according to Harmsen, is why the deep integration of Milestone’s XProtect VMS and Nedap’s AEOS access control system has been so successful. Making customers’ lives easier This insistence on customer service as a differentiating factor also extended to video surveillance manufacturers. However, not all exhibitors were aiming to achieve this through increased integration. Cisco Meraki, whose cloud-managed video system is relatively new to the security market, deliberately steers clear of the market trend for integration in favour of the ‘Apple’ approach, aiming to provide a comprehensive solution on one easy-to-use platform. The architecture is intended to make customers’ lives easier by removing the NVR from the equation - video is stored on the edge and managed via the cloud, eliminating the ongoing costs and maintenance associated with traditional hardware solutions. Eagle Eye Networks president Ken Francis was also hoping to highlight the benefits of customer-friendly cloud surveillance at the show. The acquisition of Panasonic's Cameramanager has allowed Eagle Eye Networks to cater to smaller businesses with cameras connected directly to the internet. The company’s cloud storage solution also includes Remote Power Cycling via an integrated PoE switch, allowing users to remotely repower cameras themselves with no training or expertise. Crucial to Eagle Eye Networks' customer-friendly outlook is the possession of its own local data centres worldwide, reducing cloud storage costs and allowing customers to choose where their video is stored. Making your security products stand out on a crowded show floor is no easy task, but IFSEC 2017 saw plenty of innovation from video surveillance, access control and intrusion providers alike. As competition increases, added value solutions, collaboration and ease-of-use are sure to help manufacturers make a splash at future shows!  

H-Farm has a strong track record supporting innovation and creativity in European start-ups. The company focuses on skills development, new approaches to education and digital transformation. Its most recent transformation project involved an access control system — for its own offices. H-Farm needed a solution to streamline access management for lots of people at a growing portfolio of sites and buildings. H-Farm experiences rapid turnover of users, both because new businesses join regularly and because they organise up to 300 events every year. Battery-powered locks Any new locks would need to extend an existing Axis system, but without adding complexity for day-to-day administration. To meet their needs, H-Farm selected a combination of Aperio® handles, security locks and escutcheons, each easy to retrofit, so day-to-day work at their busy offices would not be disrupted by intrusive installation. So far, 40 Aperio® Online H100 wireless door handles, 6 Aperio® Online L100 wireless locks and 4 Aperio® Online E100 wireless escutcheons have been fitted across multiple H-Farm locations in northern Italy. All Aperio® battery-powered locks are wireless, so no ugly cabling runs to H-Farm’s doors. Because Aperio® offers wide range of battery-powered devices, H-Farm can choose the precise wireless lock for every application: the L100 lock protects doors with high security demands; robust H100 handles suit interior doors with high traffic. Wireless access control Aperio® H100 enables customers to add doors to their access control solution because cost per door is lower H-Farm interior doors are mostly secured with the new Aperio® H100 wireless handle — Intersec’s Access Control Product of the Year in 2018. The Aperio® H100 packs the flexibility and affordability of Aperio® wireless access control into a slim, cleverly designed door handle. Its standard battery slots inside the handle, ensuring a minimal footprint. ASSA ABLOY’s device design team incorporated electronics into the handle lever on the outside of the door, without jeopardising security. Design has become a major feature of the H100’s appeal. H-Farm wanted devices to blend with the contemporary architecture of their new €101m H-Campus development. “Aperio® wireless access control hardware is solid, nice looking and perfectly fits our environment — solving our access problem,” says Alberto Aldrigo at H-Farm. The H100 and other Aperio® devices are easy to install; for the H100, basically two screws complete the job. Going forward, this will enable H-Farm to quickly bring new buildings into the same access system as they expand to fresh locations. The H100 fits around 90% of target doors with two main models: one for left-handled doors, the other right-handed. “The Aperio® H100 also enables customers to add more doors to their access control solution because the cost per door is lower,” says Tania Amico, Aperio® Sales Manager at ASSA ABLOY Italy. Seamless integration H-Farm managers want to control access to site doors, or bring entirely new premises into their access system The open architecture underpinning Aperio® devices enabled easy online integration with their existing Axis system via PRYSM AppControl. Remote operation from a single, central software interface is seamless, which makes administering the system easy. “The PRYSM AppControl software utilizes the integration Axis completed with Aperio®,” says Piergianni Marana, Key Account Manager at Axis. “And the AXIS A1001 Door Controller is based on open hardware, which makes installing and configuring an Aperio® wireless lock easy and seamless.” An Aperio® RS-485 Hub coordinates up to 8 Aperio® locks within a typical range of 15 to 25 meters, communicating with the admin system via the powerful AXIS A1001 IP Network Controller. One AXIS A1001 Door Controller can manage one wired door and one Aperio® hub, up to 9 doors per hub. AES 128-bit encryption ensures communication between lock and system is secure. Online Aperio® integration gives facility managers real-time status information about their premises. Aperio® locks are wireless, so there was no expensive or time-consuming cabling. The AXIS A1001 uses Power over Ethernet (PoE), which eliminates the need for power cables to the controllers, too. If needs change at a facility — perhaps H-Farm managers want to control access to more site doors, or bring entirely new premises into their access system — it’s quick, efficient and easy for an installer to fit Aperio® locks and integrate the doors with the AXIS Entry Manager control panel. To discover whether your existing security system is ready for wireless Aperio® locks, download a free, fast Compatibility Checker at https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/aperio-upgrade

IP video intercom systems are becoming more popular not only in industrial environments but also in residential projects. Security business has moved towards IP technology. Video intercom, on the other hand, is a key system that should be considered as a link between the user and the security systems due to its integration capabilities. With MEET, it’s easy to integrate video surveillance systems and receive alarms at home. It can be integrated with third-party home automation systems and access control solutions. Face recognition, CCTV visualisation MEET system is a 100% IP technology based on a Point-to-Point infrastructure MEET, the most advanced IP system from FERMAX, was specially designed for residential communication. Secure, reliable and with cutting-edge functionalities, it ensures an outstanding high-quality audio & video, featuring call divert. Moreover, it is easy to install and maintain, with almost unlimited capacity. The system is a 100% IP technology based on a Point-to-Point infrastructure, highly efficient, flexible and powerful. As pointed out by Juan Madrid, Business Development Director and IP Product Manager at FERMAX, “MEET second-generation technology allows our customers to benefit from a top-notch 100% full IP system, even compatible with GPON infrastructure, and a broad range of built in security functions as proximity reader, lift control, face recognition, CCTV visualization and alarm detection”. ​Monitoring CCTV cameras The devices communicate directly, so MEET does not require central units or servers which could compromise the availability of the system in the event of an unforeseen error. MEET allows the installer to freely assign the range of IP addresses according to the needs of each project, and thus facilitate the control of the networks in every building. MEET system, has already been successfully adopted by FERMAX integrators worldwide MEET system, launched in January 2018, has already been successfully adopted by FERMAX integrators worldwide. “The market feedback has been very positive, especially due to the flexibility of the system, its capability to integrate with Wiegand controllers or readers and to monitor CCTV cameras through RTSP protocol. All these features allow the system to fulfil project requirements from different markets around the world” assures Francisco Alapont, Solutions Department Director and Digital Business at FERMAX. Home automation integration MEET is the system that brings to life the state-of-the-art digital panels which include a triple access control system: face recognition, keypad and proximity. The system’s range is made up of digital panels, one-button panels, touch screen monitors, concierge stations and various accessories. KIN panel, for instance, is an interactive approach featuring touch screen. While being elegant and customizable, it allows the visitor to interact in a simple way with its user interface. MILO panel and MEET Guard Unit are outstanding due to their design and intuitive interaction features. When it comes to the apartments, MEET offers indoor monitors with a simple and compact design. WIT PoE monitor, with its technology and exclusivity, is specially designed for home automation integration and suitable to fit in the most sophisticated environments; MIO monitor, is a symbol of urban and modern residences, represented by its compact and simple design. Single internet connection Our customers will benefit from a wide variety of intercom and security functions in all MEET products" Call Divert function to smartphone has been one of the key goals achieved thanks to MEET ME App, which features a high-resolution image even in portrait mode. It is not only an additional gadget; it is a part of the core features of MEET, which implements by default this function at zero cost. “Connectivity is the cornerstone of FERMAX´s strategy. With MEET system we can offer a seamless and enhanced experience to our installer, connecting our MEET monitors by default without any additional costs related to servers, gateways or licenses. Only one single Internet connection for the building is required.” adds Francisco Alapont. Competitiveness is key for FERMAX and MEET IP technology allows to offer a complete bundle of features already built in the product without increasing its price. “Our customers will benefit from a wide variety of intercom and security functions in all MEET products. This adds value to the MEET system and revert back to the installer as a turnkey solution in terms of easiness of installation and cost reduction” says Juan Madrid.

A video surveillance system with around 40 IP and thermal cameras from Dahua Technology has been installed at Yarmouth Harbour on the Isle of Wight. The harbour consists of a large marina, docks for the Wightlink Ferry terminal, and pontoons and boat moorings upstream. The previous system was becoming outdated, with poor picture quality and cabling issues. Following a number of thefts from boats and boat fires in neighbouring harbours, a new solution – including a thermal imaging capability – was specified. Sensitive fire alarm system Automatic people-counting technology has been incorporated into the cameras to as a health and safety measure The Dahua cameras are a mix of thermal bullets, IR bullets, Ultra PTZs, IR domes and fisheye cameras. The thermal cameras are especially suited to wide area outdoor video surveillance and are ideal for the large, water-based environments at the harbour. The cameras feature Vox uncooled thermal sensor technology and high thermal sensitivity at less than 40mK, enabling them to capture more image details and temperature fluctuations. With a built-in fire detection functionality, the cameras provide an extremely sensitive fire alarm system. The IR bullet cameras feature highly efficient H.265 encoding technology, PoE and IR illumination at up to 50 meters, as well as a wide dynamic range, providing vivid images even in the most intense contrast lighting conditions and delivering powerful day/night surveillance in a compact package. At one of the moorings upriver, there is no power supply on isolated pontoons, so wind power and solar energy have been harnessed to operate the cameras. Automatic people-counting technology Images are transmitted wirelessly back to a control room at the main harbour office. When the control room is not staffed, Yarmouth Harbour can nominate individuals to receive alerts and images on their tablets and smartphones via the Dahua surveillance app. The surveillance system has transformed our ability to monitor the harbour for safety and security" As well as the harbour itself, the system also covers the adjacent Yarmouth pier, a Grade II listed structure said to be the longest wooden pier in the UK and recently refurbished. Automatic people-counting technology has been incorporated into the cameras at the pier’s entrance to monitor numbers on the pier as a health and safety measure. Straightforward use “The new surveillance system has transformed our ability to monitor the harbour for the safety and security of our customers, staff and the visiting public,” said Dave Rice of Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners. “The HD picture quality is superb and you can pick out people’s faces, so there is no comparison with the previous cameras. The system has proved straightforward to use and we are delighted with its performance to date.” “This proved an interesting project to work on, not least because parts of the installation had to be carried out by boat,” said Chris Snell, managing director of security installation firm, Central Southern Security. "The Dahua equipment has been a pleasure to work with and will provide Yarmouth Harbour with a great solution for many years to come.”

Around 30 IP video entry systems from Castel have been installed on the stunning new £330 million University of Northampton campus. The Waterside campus, developed on the site of a former power station bordering the town centre and River Nene, is designed for 21st century teaching and a low environmental impact. It has a full range of integrated learning environments and a 24/7 library and learning zone. The campus, which opened in autumn 2018 and can accommodate 14,000 students, has been developed in the Waterside area of the town and includes a learning hub, creative hub, sports centre, senate building, hotel and student accommodation village. Integrated with Salto access control system The entry stations have been integrated with the site’s Salto access control system Castel video entry stations, installed by Protec Fire & Security Group, have been fitted at the entrances to the senate building, the learning hub, car parks and service yards, while master stations have been fitted in the main security room, backup security room, at the senate reception desk and at the learning hub reception. The entry stations have been integrated with the site’s Salto access control system so that authorised cardholders can gain access using a key fob, while visitors seek entry via the video intercom. All entry points are single button and a Castel server is installed to handle unanswered calls via call routing and forwarding to other Castel IP handsets. Vandal-proof entry panels The Xellip IP solution delivers IP audio-video access across a PoE cabling network. Features such as a built-in induction loop, audio/call progress feedback and coloured LED pictograms help the university to comply with disability discrimination legislation. The entry panels are vandal-proof and the master stations feature a colour video touchscreen Features of the system include call waiting and priority calls, echo and noise cancellation, audio conferencing, group calls, privacy settings, call overflow, call forwarding and voice messaging. The entry panels are vandal-proof and the master stations feature a colour video touchscreen. Efficiently manage building access “The Castel video entry system complements the 21st century approach to university life reflected in our stunning new campus,” said Becky Bradshaw, Head of Campus Services at the University of Northampton. “We are very pleased with the way the system helps us manage access and security to our buildings in an efficient and relatively effortless way.” Simon Key, Project Manager at Protec Fire & Security Group, said: “The installation of the Castel system was trouble-free as everything was installed on an IP network, with PoE obviating the need for additional power supply cabling. We are delighted to have worked on this cutting-edge project, showcasing the role of state-of-the-art security systems on a brand new and impressive campus.”

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

AMG Systems has been commissioned to help digitise the traffic monitoring system for newly-extended hard shoulder bus lanes on Belfast’s main motorways, to make it more efficient, secure and reliable. A new IP-based CCTV system was being installed as part of the extension project, so the underlying fibre network needed to be upgraded in order to handle the high-grade images being transmitted back to the city’s Traffic Information and Control Centre (TICC). The upgrade helps to enhance passenger journeys by improving the quality of real-time information sent to traffic management teams. AMG – Juniper Networks partnership AMG, working with Juniper Networks, a leader in secure, AI-driven networks, brought the IP-driven CCTV project together across numerous government agencies and private construction contractors to create a cost-efficient, robust solution for Belfast’s M1 and M2 motorways. The Northern Ireland Department for Infrastructure (DfI) awarded a tender to Graham Construction to work on the extension of hard shoulder bus lanes along the M1 and M2 motorways, intended to improve journey times and service reliability for bus passengers without affecting general traffic flows. The scheme was designed by DfI consultants Aecom, who also carried out site supervision and project manager roles during construction. The work included the provision of new and upgraded Pan Tilt Zoom IP-based CCTV cameras for traffic monitoring purposes by the Traffic Information and Control Centre (TICC) in Belfast. Hikvision PTZ IP video camerasGraham used Hikvision PTZ IP video cameras – installed by Chubb – for traffic monitoring Graham used Hikvision PTZ IP video cameras – installed by Chubb – for traffic monitoring. But connecting them to the Pelco system in use at TICC was not as straightforward as it at first seemed, which is where AMG Systems and Juniper Networks came in. “On each of the two motorways, the existing fibre network had only two spare fibres, so all the images had to be combined onto the two, allowing for a resilient ring,” consultant Jo Hopkins of Highways Consulting says, “meaning that if one fibre broke, the other would be able to transmit all the images. The existing cameras on the network were analogue, but we took the opportunity to install digital cameras. This reduces the number of times the images are sampled and converted from analogue to digital and back again, which improves the quality of the image.” Connecting IP cameras to fibre network Hopkins worked with Graham on the project, and said AMG was asked to provide a reliable, cost-effective means of connecting new cameras onto the existing fibre network, bringing the images back to the Traffic Control Centre in Belfast. “The task itself was straightforward, but the integration into an existing live system made the project more complex,” she said. Hopkins and AMG Systems Business Development Director Sara Fisher worked to address the network challenge, which included upgrading from analogue to IP cameras for the first time on the Belfast motorways. AMG switches The network design utilises nine AMG switches on the M1 fibres and 15 switches for the M2 The network design utilises nine AMG switches on the M1 fibres and 15 switches for the M2. At the TICC control room, there are a further four AMG switches which allow the IP cameras to connect to the existing Pelco monitoring equipment. Fisher explains that the control room network connection was further complicated as the TICC’s existing system called for the use of multi-casting and VLANs, and an existing firewall also had to be factored in. “The most appropriate interface in this case was Layer 3 POE switches from our partner Juniper Networks,” she said. IP video surveillance A DfI TICC representative said: “The joint network design by AMG and Juniper Networks has met the challenge presented to them in upgrading our hard shoulder bus lane cameras from purely analogue to IP and has provided a resilient network, intended specifically for the task. AMG’s post-sales service and advice has also proved extremely helpful.”

IP network dependability matters in physical security and safety applications, given that a company’s assets and people are at risk. There have been strides in the areas of network dependability, fault-tolerance, reliability, and survivability. However, networks (or affordable ones, at any rate) still cannot ensure near-100 percent uptime, which is why system designers acknowledge and plan for the possibility of a network outage. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can/should an IP networked system adapt when network connectivity is lost?

Software drives video solutions in the IP environment, but often that software is a pre-installed component of a purpose-built network video recorder (NVR). In other cases, software solutions are sold separately and then installed (usually by the integrator) on a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) server. But how can an integrator or end user decide which approach is best for them? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a pre-configured video appliance (such as a purpose-built NVR with preinstalled software) versus software running on an off-the-shelf server?

Environmentalism is a universal consideration in most business sectors in 2016. Whether seeking to provide greener products, or looking for new ways to minimise waste of manufacturing processes, most companies are involved to some degree with environmental concerns. Green has not traditionally been a big driver in the security industry, but there are indications the profile of environmentalism is increasing. We asked this week's Expert Panel: How green (environmentally friendly) is the security industry? How should the industry as a whole (integrators and manufacturers) work to improve the industry’s environmental record?