Remote video monitoring

Today’s market wants access control systems that are always available, scalable, and integrated with other security solutions like video and intrusion systems to ensure the highest security and safety levels. At the same time, these systems must be easy to configure and use. With the introduction of the Access Management System 3.0, Bosch meets all of these requirements. Always available for security Access Management System 3.0 is designed to be available at all times. Its resilient design includes a Master Access Controller (MAC) as an additional layer of defence between the server and the access controllers. If the server fails, the MAC takes over, ensuring continuous communication across controllers while sharing necessary information from the card readers. In addition, access control functionalities that involve multiple access readers, such as anti-passback and guard tour can continue to perform. The anti-passback functionality is an important feature to ensure a high level of security. It prevents a cardholder from passing a card to another person enabling an unauthorised entry. Guard tour is a safety functionality offered to security guards, which uses access readers as checkpoints along a defined route at specified times. Threat level management The different threat levels can make all doors open, or all doors blocked, or a mix of open and blocked Any deviation of sequence or timing causes an alarm in the Access Management System. Immediate notifications to colleagues or first responders increase the safety of security guards. In the rare event that both the Access Management System 3.0 server and the MAC fail, cardholders can still enter and leave areas with their badges because the database is stored directly on the Access Management Controllers (AMCs). Thanks to this offline capability, it is possible to save millions of events even during downtimes, ensuring the continuous availability of the system. Access Management System 3.0 offers up to 15 configurable threat levels such as lockdown, controlled lockdown, or evacuation, which means safety measures can be initiated quickly in critical situations such as fire or security breach. The threat level state is activated by one of three triggers: operator workstation, external contact such as an emergency button, or specially configured “emergency” cards that are presented to a reader. The different threat levels can make all doors open, or all doors blocked, or a mix of open and blocked. Scalable and future-proof Users can start small and add extra capacity whenever necessary. The Access Management System 3.0 software can be expanded up to 10,000 doors and 200,000 cardholders. The software is offered in three pre-configured software bundles from medium to large organisations: Lite (max. 144 doors), Plus (max. 512 doors), and Professional (max. 10,000 doors). All bundles support up to 200,000 cardholders. No hardware needs replacing when expanding; users only require software upgrades and possibly additional controllers, readers, and cards. So, increasing the system is also cost-efficient. Customers who work with the software solution Access Professional Edition (APE) from Bosch can migrate to the Access Management System 3.0 by using the new importer/exporter tool. Together with regular updates to data security enhancements, these features make the system a future-proof investment - suitable for office and government buildings, retail environments, educational institutions, and more. Easy configuration and operation Access Management System 3.0 also has trusted digital certificates for mutual authenticationConfiguration is easy: Users can import existing floor maps into the system, and drag and drop icons on the map to represent controllers, doors, and building objects. User onboarding is straightforward. For example, enrolment and assignment of access profiles are all implemented in one dialogue manager. Operation is smooth: The graphical user interface (GUI) is simple and easy to understand. The dark colour scheme of the GUI reduces eye-strain and fatigue, so operators stay fresh and alert. Access Management System 3.0 offers protection against cybercrime and loss of personal data. The database, as well as the communication between the server and access controllers, is encrypted at all stages through the support of the secure Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) v2 protocol. Access Management System 3.0 also has trusted digital certificates for mutual authentication between the server and client to prevent tampering by unauthorised clients and uses secure design principles such as “secure-by-default” and “principle of least privilege.” Integration with third-party solutions Access Management System 3.0 is ideal as a standalone solution to meet today’s access control needs. It integrates seamlessly with Bosch B Series and G Series intrusion control panels as well as with video systems such as Bosch Video Management System or third-party systems like Milestone’s XProtect for increased security and enhanced situational awareness. The integrated command and control functionality enables operators to arm and disarm intrusion panels directlyIntegration with Bosch Video Management System (version 10.1 and higher) offers manual video verification to increase the security level at doors. The operator can visually verify whether the person at the door matches the registered person in the database. If so, the operator allows the person to enter. Bosch Video Management System integration also enables searching for cardholder events and events at doors. With the searching functionality, it is possible to quickly check who has entered an area and at what time. Moreover, access commands and events can be handled in Bosch Video Management System, making the operation of the integrated system most efficient. Intrusion control panels integration B and G Series intrusion control panels integrate seamlessly into Access Management System 3.0 for efficient authorisation management and a central overview of all access and intrusion events. With central user management, operators can add, delete, and modify intrusion-related user passcodes and authorisations directly into the system, as well as organise users by groups or functionalities. The integrated command and control functionality enables operators to arm and disarm intrusion panels directly in the Access Management System 3.0 user interface as well as to see states of the areas (e.g. “armed”, “ready to arm”) and detectors (e.g. “motion detected”) on the system map. This provides operators with a central overview of all access and intrusion states, allowing them to easily and remotely handle intrusion events. Bosch Access Management System 3.0 is available for sale and makes access management simple, scalable, and always available.

Custom Consoles announces a new addition to its range of technical control furniture. Developed in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Operator Safety Screen reduces the risk of airborne infection or direct physical contact between control room personnel without restricting their forward or side view of video monitor displays. "We designed the Operator Safety Screen following discussions with some of our largest customers," says Custom Consoles Managing Director Neil Reed. "Most technical control rooms and edit suites are well air-conditioned but Covid-19 has raised health and safety concerns to a significantly higher level. We responded promptly to the challenge with a space-efficient screen which can be installed quickly and easily wherever control room staff are working in close proximity." Rigid low-profile floor supports "The Operator Safety Screen is designed to fit our Module-R series of technical furniture but fits all other desks in our product portfolio and those manufactured by other furniture companies. The Operator Safety Screen has already generated orders totalling several hundred from broadcasters such as Al Jazeera, Amazon, BBC Studio Works, IMG, QVC, STV and Timeline as well as many others," adds Sales Manager Gary Fuller. "This makes it one of the fastest selling new products in Custom Consoles' history. Each screen comprises a strongly built birch plywood main frame with rigid low-profile floor supports. A transparent polycarbonate panel bonded into the upper section of each frame gives operators a clear view of all equipment and colleagues to support their normal workflow. Handgrips are integrated into each frame for easy relocation."  Custom Consoles' Operator Safety Screens are available now.

Alarm systems have been available for decades, but many solutions offer little functionality beyond a sensor triggering an alert in the event of a break in. To take alarms to the next level, Hikvision is bringing a number of new and innovative technologies to market, allowing customers to meet their home and business security requirements more fully and to help expand the alarm business. No one can stay alert for a potential home or business security breach every hour of every day. That’s why alarm solutions are critically important for customers in terms of identifying and reacting to any incident in the fastest and most effective way possible. Enhancing residential and corporate security Hikvision offers a broad range of alarm solutions and technologies for different customer requirements But not all situations require the same kind of alarm system, which is why Hikvision offers a broad range of alarm solutions and technologies for different customer requirements. In some cases, for example, a customer needs to be aware when the perimeter of a site or location is breached. In other situations, they may need to monitor entrances or site perimeters, to track multiple intruders at the same time, or to speed up responses in the event of attacks in buildings or in public spaces. Hikvision innovative alarm solutions To address this broad range of end-customer requirements, Hikvision has created a broad portfolio of innovative alarm solutions that are sophisticated, automated, and always fit for purpose. These allow one to: Meet customers’ home security requirements with Hikvision Intrusion Alarm A break-in at a customer’s home can cause major upset, as well as material and financial losses. With Hikvision Intrusion Alarm solutions, they can get peace of mind that their home is properly protected at all times. Hikvision Intrusion Alarm solutions To maximise home security, the intrusion alarm solutions combine a wide range of integrated detectors To maximise home security, the intrusion alarm solutions combine a wide range of integrated detectors, including door and window-contact detectors, break-glass detectors, vibration detectors, smoke, and temperature detectors. Customers can also stream video from their security cameras direct to their mobile phones with Hikvision’s pioneering Intruder Verification as a Service (IVaaS) technology, which seamlessly unites video with cutting-edge intrusion detection capabilities in a single platform. Wireless alarm control panels The Hikvision Intrusion Alarm solution includes wireless alarm control panels and peripherals that make it fast and easy to deploy in home environments. Wired products are also available for small commercial applications. For residential applications, end users can connect into the alarm control panel, receive alerts, and watch streamed video from CCTV cameras on their handheld device. They can also configure their home security system remotely and view alarm reports. Detect and track multiple intruders concurrently over large distances with Hikvision Security Radar Customers with large sites to secure may need to track multiple intruders concurrently. They can get this capability with Hikvision Security Radar, which offers a detecting distance of up to 120 metres and a 120° detecting angle. That means customers can cover sites of 15,000 square metres and – most importantly – they can track up to 64 targets simultaneously. Hikvision Security Radar To make life easy for customers’ security teams, they can define the different areas they want to monitor, such as the warehouse, the car park, the perimeter or entrance, and others as needed. One Hikvision Radar can link up to 4 PTZ dome cameras at the same time to check multiple targets via video. With Hikvision, customers also get an extremely low rate of false alarms. This means they can focus on real intruders rather than pets or other animals, or weather interference such as fog, rain or snow. Stop criminals before they can do any damage with Hikvision Perimeter Protection The best way customers can minimise safety risk and damage to their assets is to stop intruders while they are still outside of the site or building, and that’s what Hikvision Perimeter Protection is all about. To stop criminals in their tracks, we use two parallel infra-red bars that have to be broken at the same time for the alarm to be sounded. Hikvision Perimeter Protection solution With two infra-red bars, customers can filter out all kinds of false alarms With two infra-red bars, customers can filter out all kinds of false alarms, from small animals crossing their perimeter, to falling leaves or flickering lights, which means they always know when an intrusion threat is real. Furthermore, their solutions are temperature and weather hardened, enabling deployment outside, in all kinds of perimeter locations. Their customers can also monitor their perimeter security remotely via their handheld devices. Increase safety for people in public places with Hikvision Emergency Alarm An emergency situation can unfold anywhere, in a school, on a university campus, in a park, or in the street. To help security teams work effectively, and ensure that people feel safe wherever they are, Hikvision has created the Emergency Alarm system. Hikvision Emergency Alarm system This solution allows a person in an emergency situation or attack to call for help by pushing a button, or by broadcasting a call for help to police or emergency response teams, or both. The Hikvision solution has a built-in camera and audio recording facility to collect evidence of the events taking place. In addition to these benefits, the Hikvision solution is available in different formats and can be integrated with joined-up ‘safe city’ technologies, including dome cameras, license-plate recognition cameras, low-light cameras, and much more. This kind of solution is already being deployed to improve safety in cities, parks, universities and schools worldwide and can be deployed in a wide range of other customer scenarios. Fit-for-purpose alarm solutions for every application Based on these four key application areas, Hikvision alarm solutions cover all of customers’ home security and business security requirements. While Hikvision Intrusion Alarm solutions protect homes and small businesses against break-ins, their Security Radar, Perimeter Protection, and Emergency Alarm solutions enable protection of people and assets and rapid responses on a far larger scale, either for large sites or in smart-city environments.

Dahua Technology, a globally renowned video-centric smart IoT solutions and services provider, has announced the release of DMSS, its newly designed mobile client. DMSS can connect Dahua products via the Internet or Ethernet through P2P or IP, and can also be operated remotely. It supports all kinds of product types, including NVR, XVR, IPC, TPC, VTO, Alarm Hub, and Access Control, etc. Remote operations DMSS can work in an environment with multiple internet connections. It connects Dahua products through both Internet and Ethernet. P2P enabled internet connection features great simplicity, while IP or domain name enabled Ethernet connection guarantees strong stability. Through its global network coverage, DMSS can be operated remotely to quickly and stably control specific devices all around the world. Numerous functions including PTZ controlling, video image adjustment (such as White Balance, focus, etc.), alarm subscription, video preview and playback, voice intercom, etc. can be done remotely. Enhanced data security DMSS adopts multiple layers of data encryption protection to provide better data security to users From a product to the platform and then to the mobile client, DMSS adopts multiple layers of data encryption protection to provide better data security to users. DMSS has also been certified by TÜV Rheinland, meaning the product complies with the GDPR (EU, 2016/679), and meets the TÜV Rheinland 2PfG 2624/06.17 standards, offering state-of-the-art information security and privacy protection. Featuring more detailed interaction design, DMSS offers smoother user experience. In addition, a version that supports both day mode and night mode will be released soon. Supports thermal products To provide better support towards the global efforts in pandemic prevention and control, DMSS also supports thermal products, including thermal cameras and access control and temperature monitoring terminals. It enables the operators to remotely control thermal products and perform their duty in a much safer manner. In the future, DMSS will extend its application scope to support more SMB solutions, providing installers and small and medium-sized businesses with more user-friendly solutions. With its mission of ‘Enabling a Safer Society and Smarter Living’, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on ‘Innovation, Quality and Service’ to better serve its partners and customers around the world.

The Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response (PPVAR) is pleased to announce Tom Nakatani, IT VP of Customer Monitoring Technology for ADT, has been elected President. Nakatani officially began his two-year term at the June 10th PPVAR member’s meeting after serving as Vice President. He succeeds Joey Rao-Russell, President and CEO for Sonitrol-Kimberlite, who will now serve on the PPVAR Board as an immediate past President and Treasurer. “I am honored to take on the role of PPVAR President and to work with the distinguished and influential group of industry thought leaders, public safety leaders, and key partners on our Board of Directors,” said Tom Nakatani. Changing verification technology use Tom adds, “The use of verification technology is fundamentally changing the relationship between the alarm industry and public safety for the better. We’re thrilled to be involved with the development of industry standards that will provide more actionable information for first responders. This information will improve officer safety while prioritising their impact.” Tom Nakatani also sits on the Board of Directors for the Security Industry Association Nakatani started his career at ADT in 1991 and has held a number of positions with the company including global monitoring technology, monitoring standards, program management, operational reporting, M&A, and product delivery. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Security Industry Association and participates on a number of industry and regulatory committees. Promoting the value of verification As PPVAR continues to work toward its mission of promoting the value of verification during the dispatch process, it is expanding the composition of its Board of Directors to increase the number of public safety representatives. This change will ensure that the PPVAR board will represent a balanced team of professionals with excellent relationships across both public and private sectors as they work together on the issues related to alarm response process. Three of the public safety and partner members were introduced and spoke at the virtual meeting, including: David L. Holl is the Director of Public Safety for Lower Allen Township, PA. Director Holl oversees the police department, emergency medical services, is liaison to two Township volunteer fire companies, and serves as the municipal Emergency Management Coordinator. He sees his involvement in PPVAR as a way to directly impact false alarm issues and is looking forward to influencing the future of responding to emergencies. Frank G. Fernandez, is the retired Chief of Police from Miami and Hollywood Police. He is the former Director of Public Safety and Assistant City Manager for the City of Coral Gables, Florida. He is currently president of Blueprints 4 Safety (B4S) Strategies Group LLC, a security and risk assessment consulting group specialising in vulnerability assessments, strategic planning and best practice policing/public safety strategic development. He chose to become involved in PPVAR because he sees the opportunity to increase situational awareness for police when responding to emergencies and to bring awareness to his public safety colleagues about the alarm industry. John Chiaramonte is President of Mission Critical Partners’ Consulting Business where he leads more than 80 dedicated and specialised public safety professionals in improving his clients’ emergency response outcomes. He is a subject matter expert in emergency communications, 911 and next generation 911. One of his goals in participating with PPVAR is to improve emergency response outcomes as new technology brings changes to emergency dispatch centers. Strengthening public safety partnership With a bold vision for the future for PPVAR, new President Nakatani plans to continue to build on the work of the previous presidents by helping improve collaboration with public safety and other partners. This vision for the future includes expansion of the PPVAR Board, educating public safety and industry members, creating a framework for alarm verification scoring, and collaborative work with PSAPs to incorporate the next generation of technologies.

As educational pioneers continue the challenging conversation about what the new normal will look like for students across the nation, Allied Universal®, a security and facility services company in North America, is helping school administrators and campus safety departments plan and prepare for students returning to school. Allied Universal’s more than 7,500 campus Security Professionals safeguard nearly 700 schools/universities nationwide. Over last several months, Allied Universal’s K-12 and higher education experts have been sharing best practices, guidance and tools to help schools provide a safe and secure environment for all students and faculty. Kiosk screening technology This guidance includes the following: Support ‘no touch’ entry into buildings, dissemination of personal protection equipment (PPE) and disinfecting supplies and social distancing requirements to keep staff, students and parents safe. Allied Universal’s CARE Ambassadors are available to help ease return to school anxieties and are available to welcome, inform and educate students and parents on all aspects of the return to school initiatives. Conduct distance temperature screening with a broad range of solutions such as handheld, fixed or semi-permanent thermal screening imaging and robotic and kiosk screening technology. Assist with traffic control, provide improved management of drop-offs and pickups, and support ingress and egress locations around school buildings. Help mitigate further risks with advanced technologies such as Allied Universal’s HELIAUS® platform, LiveSafe®’s Mobile Safety and Security App, access control and remote video monitoring solutions. Resuming peer-to-peer learning Institutional stakeholders are asking questions about what the ‘new normal’ will look like for our students" “Institutional stakeholders are asking questions about what the ‘new normal’ will look like for our students, while, at the same time, our educational leaders are balancing budgets and dealing with lay-offs and staffing decisions while continuing to provide a high quality academic experience for students across the country,” said Stephen R. Aborn, Director of Higher Education at Allied Universal. “We are here to support and offer a variety of solutions to keep all school campuses safe during the COVD-19 pandemic.” Recently, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided recommendations on how to keep the communities safe while resuming peer-to-peer learning. Decreasing spread of the virus The CDC released this guidance to inform a gradual scale up of operations with the ultimate goal to decrease further spread of the virus. “We recognise the hard work of our education leaders and support their mission of furthering learning and education to all students in a safe environment,” said Mahsa Karimi, Education Manager at Allied Universal. “It is our #1 goal to provide our education partners with the safety resources and tools they need so they can focus on what they do best—to continue to teach and inspire our students.”

We all know that having CCTV around your home can help to protect you and your family. Without CCTV, you could end up in danger and an intruder could get away with breaking into your house, hurting your loved ones and stealing your possessions. Similarly, without CCTV in the office, you’ll be leaving yourself open to all kinds of damage and could lose a lot of equipment in the process. In short, making sure you have CCTV is important for both home and business security. However, it can be improved to become a more effective system so that you’re better protected, and can even deter a potential intruder without having to panic. In our world of ever-changing technology, we’re able to upgrade and enhance our CCTV systems so they can become a monitored system. Remote CCTV monitoring is an ideal way to protect everyone and everything whether you’re at home or at a workplace. What is remote CCTV monitoring? For a long time, CCTV was one of the best ways to keep your home, the office and people safe. But people started to notice that it would only deter people so much of the time and often the cameras were ignored by intruders. They would just cover their faces and hope for the best as they steal from a home, office or any other premises. Remote CCTV monitoring is a system that can loop into your existing CCTV, or come preinstalled with a new system. This technology sends a feed to a control room full of trained operators that are on call 24/7. Within this control room, operators are able to respond to any sort of distress call or unauthorised movement on the property line.  How does it work? Remote CCTV monitoring works by attaching to a live feed of your CCTV system, existing or new, so that the signal and images can be passed to a team of operators. These operators are on hand 24/7 so that if there is a problem, you know that you're safe in the hands of a specialist team. The specialist team has been trained to mitigate the chances of somebody breaking into your home when the system is triggered; similarly they call the local authorities instantly so that the potential intruder has less time to flee the scene. This is especially important if an intruder is already inside your property because they have less time to steal your items and leave. Without CCTV in the office, you’ll be leaving yourself open to all kinds of damage and could lose a lot of equipment in the process One of the biggest questions that revolve around remote CCTV monitoring is the idea of operators watching the CCTV at all times. Luckily most remote CCTV monitoring systems will incorporate a motion detection system to accompany your CCTV. Motion detection offers the ability to alert a control room if there is an unauthorised entry to the property line. These motion detection systems are state-of-the-art and so, depending on the system that you choose, they can watch over your property from a number of angles. Once the motion detection system has been triggered and the alert has been sent to the control room, then and only then will the operators get involved. This means that until the motion detection system has been triggered, nobody will watch your live CCTV feed. After one of the systems has been triggered, one of the specialist operators will instantly jump into action. This means that they can take different measures to deter any potential intruder and make sure that they do everything in their power to stop any damage or theft from the premises. In addition to the motion detection system and CCTV, you are able to opt for a public address (PA) system too. This means that an operator is able to shout commands through the PA system and potentially scare away any intruder. The intruder will also be warned about the fact that local authorities have already been called to the location.  Remote monitoring versus traditional CCTV Motion detection offers the ability to alert a control room if there is an unauthorised entry to the property line Having a monitored CCTV system means that you're able to better protect yourself, your business, employees and even your loved ones. Whether you're at home or in the office, having someone looking over your shoulder protecting your every move is something that can be appreciated by everybody. The biggest problem with just having traditional CCTV, is that it is a reactive system. This means that rather than stopping crime, a CCTV system just records it. While the thought is that having a CCTV camera visible can deter some intruders, there's no real evidence to suggest that it stops anybody; anyone can simply cover their face and carry on breaking into your home, office or even your car. As mentioned, remote CCTV monitoring is going to tackle that problem and make sure that someone is on hand to protect you at all times.

Security managers, installers and integrators look into a wide variety of factors when selecting a remote video monitoring receiving centre to provide continued real-time surveillance of their sites. But there’s one factor which isn’t often taken into consideration, when it really should be. That’s the welfare of the CCTV operators who are tasked with responding to alarms and ensuring on-site incidents are dealt with appropriately. The fact is, in most UK monitoring centres those operators are working extremely long hours: typically 12-hour shifts, often four days in a row. The cumulative effect of that regular extreme shift pattern can be a level of fatigue which is detrimental to the performance of the operators, as well as to their own physical health and mental wellbeing. The result is a reduction in effectiveness of client video security systems. If the operators are compromised when it comes to clear decision-making, the entire monitoring operation suffers. The central aspects of concentration and alertness I’ve worked in monitoring centres for most of my adult life, starting just out of school. When I had the opportunity to begin my own CCTV and security alarm most In UK monitoring centres, those operators are working extremely long hours: typically 12-hour shifts, often four days in a rowmonitoring centre with my business partner Andy Saile, we were clear that operator welfare was a priority. After all, the operator’s job is literally to be alert and responsive, so why would we want to do anything to detract from that? That’s certainly not the case at all remote monitoring centres, though. The vast majority follow the 12-hour shift template, usually in four days on, four off patterns. Anyone who has done any job knows that at the end of a 12-hour shift, fatigue kicks in, and the ability to focus diminishes. That’s particularly the case in roles where concentration and alertness are central to the job. For a CCTV operator in a monitoring centre, fatigue starts to affect the ability to work effectively during the stretch between 9 and 12 hours. That’s the danger period. If an operator misses a criminal incident because of fatigue, that means the security system the client is relying on is not working. The operator is the link between the technology and the police. They are a key component of the whole system.   If an operator misses a criminal incident because of fatigue, that means the security system the client is relying on is not working Government guidance After working in remote video monitoring centres and experiencing what we considered both good and bad practice, when Andy and I established our business, we were clear that our operators would work in shifts that were no longer than nine hours at most. This delivers the best results for our customers and our staff. Our feeling was backed up by UK government guidance on designing CCTV control rooms. The Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure has produced a detailed publication called 'Human factors in CCTV control rooms: A best practice guide'. This publication says: “12-hour shifts, although common in many settings, rIf the operators are compromised when it comes to clear decision-making, the entire monitoring operation suffersepresent a greater risk to health and performance than 8 hour shifts in terms of higher perceptions of workload, fatigue and stress, risk of more errors and accidents, and higher health risks.” Negative impacts on health and wellbeing It further says: “Research confirms that the interruption of circadian rhythms (the 24 hour natural bodily cycle) by shift work can have a negative impact on both general wellbeing and physical health (short and long term), as well as on performance due to general fatigue (i.e. an increased likelihood of errors). Shift-patterns are often designed to meet commercial and operational requirements, but serious consideration should be given to minimising negative effects on health and well-being by the use of appropriate shift patterns.” The majority of our shifts cover seven or eight hours, and our operators never work more than four in a row. That allows for an average of three or four days between each batch of shifts. The idea is to avoid running staff into the ground, and that in turn makes our company more efficient and effective in the service of our clients. We’ve seen the results in practice: our operators only took four sick days in the past year. That’s four sick days in total, not per operator. It’s a CCTV operators have intense jobs, responsible for monitoring and responding to CCTV and intruder alarm events from commercial and domestic propertiesremarkably low figure in the remote video monitoring industry. Full readiness CCTV operators have intense jobs, responsible for monitoring and responding to CCTV and intruder alarm events from commercial and domestic properties. They liaise with the police, the customer keyholder, end users and any relevant authorities as required. Our customers are equipped with both cameras and motion sensors, which generate alarms on movement. When a movement in a specified zone occurs, the alarm is raised directly with the operator responsible for that site. The response differs from customer to customer depending on their own protocols. If there are dome cameras in place, for instance, they can be utilised to provide additional situational awareness. Escalating risks Traditional intruder alarm monitoring centres required the operator to react to an alarm by calling a keyholder, who would then respond to the incident. But remote monitoring requires concentration, focus, and deductive skills. The information required to make an informed decision isn’t immediately obvious – the The operator must be able to snap to full focus at any point over the course of their shift, and it’s tiringoperator must work out what has moved and establish its cause. There’s no one to provide extra detail. The operator’s art is in working out for themselves what is relevant information in a scene and what isn’t. That requires their full attention. When operators work four days of 12-hour shifts in a row, risks escalate as a result. The risk that the wrong decision can be made. The risk that customers or police are not notified when they should be. There is a real-world cost associated with those decisions. The operator must be able to snap to full focus at any point over the course of their shift, and it’s tiring, whether there’s an incident to respond to or whether the operator is simply prepared to act. Operator skills are diluted if their shift patterns are not considered. Why would you hire someone based on their skillset, and then work them into the ground until they’re too tired to execute those skills? Choosing a monitoring centre Security systems and modern technology are crucial ingredients in protecting people and property, but they also require interpretation. A CCTV operator is an Security systems and modern technology are crucial ingredients in protecting people and property, but they also require interpretationinvestigator and a conduit, bridging the divide between images, alarms and authorities, be they police, security guarding operations or keyholders. To run them into the ground is to diminish their ability to make intelligent decisions. It makes sense, then, to opt to work with a monitoring centre which puts the welfare of its operators at the forefront of its business. Start by asking your prospective RVRC about their shift patterns. A monitoring centre with respected and happy staff is a monitoring centre best able to provide a fully effective service, optimising your security systems and maximising your investment.

Where are video surveillance cameras headed? At the core of next-generation Internet Protocol (IP) cameras are advanced chips with artificial intelligence (AI) at the edge, enabling cameras to gather valuable information about an incident: scanning shoppers at a department store, monitoring city streets, or checking on an elderly loved one at home. Thanks to advanced chip technology, complex analytics operations are becoming more affordable across the full spectrum of surveillance cameras —professional to consumer — fueling the democratisation of AI in the IP camera market. Complex analytics operations are becoming more affordable across the full spectrum of surveillance cameras Expanding the global IP camera market  The video surveillance equipment market grew to $18.5 billion in 2018 and is expected to increase this year, according to IHS Markit. The latest research points to video everywhere, edge computing, and AI as the top technologies that will have a major impact in both commercial and consumer markets in 2019. Computing at the edge means that the processors inside the camera are powerful enough to run AI processing locally, while still encoding and streaming video, and are able to do it all at the low-power required to fit into the limited thermal budget of an IP camera. New SoC chips will be able to perform all of the processing on camera and provide accurate AI information, with no need to send data to a server or the cloud for processing. Instead, data can be analysed right in the camera itself, offering high performance, real-time video analytics, and lower latency — all critical aspects of video surveillance. This new AI paradigm is made possible by a new generation of SoCs, a key driver behind the market growth of IP cameras. Complex analytics operations are becoming more affordable across the full spectrum of surveillance cameras to fuel the advent of AI in the IP camera market Micro-processor-enabled video analytics Next-generation video cameras will be able to create heat maps of stores to see where people spend the most time Microprocessor-enabled analytics allow users to more easily extract valuable data from video streams. How about an insider’s view into retail customer behavior? Consider video cameras at a department store, monitoring shoppers’ behavior, traffic patterns, and areas of interest. Next-generation cameras will recognise how long a shopper stays in front of a specific display, if the shopper leaves and returns, and if the shopper ultimately makes a purchase. Next-generation video cameras will be able to create heat maps of stores to see where people spend the most time, so retailers will be able to adjust product placement accordingly. Analytics will also help identify busy/quiet times of the day, so retailers can staff accordingly. By understanding customers’ behavior, retailers can determine the best way to interact with them, target specific campaigns, and tailor ads for them. Cue the coupons while the shopper is still onsite! Analytics will also help identify busy/quiet times of the day, so retailers can staff accordingly Fast processing for rapid response at city level City surveillance and smart cities are depending on advanced video surveillance and intelligence to keep an eye on people and vehicles, identify criminals, flag suspicious behavior, and identify potentially dangerous situations such as loitering, big crowds forming, or cars driving the wrong way.Quick local decisions on the video cameras are also used to help analyse traffic situations Quick local decisions on the video cameras are also used to help analyse traffic situations, adjust traffic lights, identify license plates, automatically charge cars for parking, find a missing car across a city, or create live and accurate traffic maps. Real-time HD video monitoring and recording When it comes to home monitoring, what will next-generation video surveillance cameras offer? Real-time monitoring and notification can detect if a person is in the back yard or approaching the door, if there’s a suspicious vehicle in the driveway, or if a package is being delivered (or stolen). Advanced video cameras can determine when notifications are and aren’t required, since users don’t want to be notified for false alerts such as rain, tree branches moving, bugs, etc. Next-generation video camera capabilities can also help monitor a loved one, person or pet, helping put families at ease if they are at work or on vacation. For example, helpful analytics may be used to detect if someone has fallen, hasn’t moved for a while, or does not appear for breakfast according to their typical schedule. City surveillance and smart cities are depending on advanced video surveillance and intelligence to keep an eye on people and vehicles, identify criminals, flag suspicious behavior, and identify potentially dangerous situations Next-gen IP cameras When evaluating next-generation IP cameras (cameras on the edge), look at the brains. These cameras will likely be powered by next-generation SoCs chips. Here is what this means to you:       Save on network bandwidth, cloud computing and storage costs. There is no need to constantly upload videos to a server for analysis. Analysis can be performed locally on the camera, with only relevant videos being uploaded. Faster reaction time. Decisions are made locally, with no network latency. This is critical if you need to sound an alarm on a specific event. Privacy. In the most extreme cases, no video needs to leave the camera. Only metadata needs to be sent to the cloud or server. For example, the faces of people can be recognised in the camera and acted upon, but the video never reaches the cloud. The cameras can just stream a description of the scene to the server “suspicious person with a red sweater walking in front of the train station, has been loitering for the last 10 minutes, suggest sending an agent to check it out.” This could become a requirement in some EU countries with GDPR rules. Easier search. Instead of having to look through hours of video content, the server can just store/analyse the metadata, and easily perform searches such as “find all people with a red sweater who stayed more than five minutes in front of the train station today.” Flexibility/personalisation. Each camera at the edge can be personalised to work better for the specific scene it is looking at, compared to a generic server. For example, “run a heat map algorithm on camera A (retail) as I want to know which sections of my store get the most traffic; and run a license plate recogniser on camera B (parking lot) as I want to be able to track the cars going in/out of my parking lot.” No cloud computing required. For cameras in remote locations or with limited network bandwidth, users have the ability to perform all analytics locally, without relying on uploading video to a server/cloud. Higher resolution/quality. When AI processing is performed locally, the full resolution of the sensor can be used (up to 4K or more), while typically the video streamed to a server will be lower resolution, 1080p or less. This means more pixels are available locally for the AI engine so that you will be able to detect a face from a higher distance than when the video is streamed off camera. AI at the edge Professional-level IP cameras capable of performing AI at the edge are coming soon with early offerings making their debut at this year’s ISC West. As we enter 2020, we will begin to see the availability of consumer-level cameras enabling real-time video analytics at the edge for home use. With rapid technology advancement and increased customer demand, AI is on the verge of exploding. When it comes to image quality and video analytics, IP cameras now in development will create a next-generation impact at department stores, above city streets, and keeping an eye on our loved ones.

J.D. Power is a well-known name when it comes to measuring customer satisfaction, and they have been measuring satisfaction in the home security industry since 2016. Changes affecting the marketplace – both in terms of disruptors and technology – make this a unique time. For example, in 2019, J.D. Power expanded the Home Security Satisfaction Study to not only measure the traditional pro-install/pro-monitor companies, but to separately evaluate self-install/pro-monitor brands.  “At J.D. Power our rankings are meant to support an industry in two key ways,” says Christina Cooley, J.D. Power's Director, @Home Intelligence. “First, we provide consumers who are shopping for products and services with a ‘report card’ of who provides customers with high levels of customer satisfaction. Second, we provide companies with actionable insights to help them prioritise their initiatives to improve and maintain high levels of customers satisfaction that drive loyalty and growth.” Differentiating between companies The traditional Pro-Install/Pro-Monitor companies are challenged to differentiate from one another In home security, J.D. Power is in a unique position to report on the changes taking place in the evolving industry. The 2019 rankings show that the traditional Pro-Install/Pro-Monitor companies are challenged to differentiate from one another, as each have their individual strengths and opportunities, but overall the score range is relatively tight. On the do-it-yourself (DIY) side, there is more differentiation. A set of brands has been able to challenge the traditional industry by achieving extremely high customer satisfaction levels. Price is always an important factor that impacts customer satisfaction, whether for security or another market J.D. Power serves. The equation is simple, says Cooley: does the price paid equal the value the customer feels they have received from the product or service? “For Home Security, we didn’t specifically look at price until this year,” says Cooley. “With the changes that have occurred in the market, price can be a differentiator as we’ve seen with the emergence of DIY-installed systems. However, lower pricing does not have a direct relationship to quality of service.” The price factor For example, there are some higher-priced pro-installed brands that perform lower on customer satisfaction than lower-priced competitors. And DIY-installed systems as a whole are less expensive, and price is the customer satisfaction driver in which the DIY segment most outperforms the pro segment. Price is the customer satisfaction driver in which the DIY segment most outperforms the pro segment The equation is: performance minus Expectations equals Customer Satisfaction. “Obviously, price point will be a factor in the purchase decision and the expectations the customer has about the product and service,” says Cooley. “Any pro or DIY system has the opportunity to differentiate the customer experience regardless of price point.” There are clear differences in the pro vs. DIY experience, which is why J.D. Power evaluates the brands in separate rankings. However, Cooley says the drivers of satisfaction are consistent across both groups. The key to each group goes back to the equation above.  Evaluating the purchase process For the both pro and DIY companies, J.D. Power evaluates the purchase process the same. Though the customer may take a different path to purchase based on the offering they seek, the drivers are still the same: Usefulness of information provided Reasonableness of contract terms Professionalism of sales representative Ease of purchasing home security system. For installation, there are clear differences. DIY systems are evaluated based on: Ease of completing installation Quality of installation instructions provided Timeliness of receiving home security system. Pro systems are evaluated based on: Professionalism of technician Timeliness of completing installation Quality of work performed. Interestingly, purchase and installation are the customer satisfaction driver where both pro and DIY providers (as a whole) are most closely aligned on performance. Customer loyalty The price a customer is paying must align with the quality of the system they receive What drives a customer to purchase a home security system initially will often be very different than what will keep them as a loyal customer, Cooley notes. The price a customer is paying must align with the quality of the system they receive, and the service provided through the professional monitoring and customer service. “With the expansion of home security offerings, it’s more important than ever for home security companies to understand the motivations, intentions, and usage patterns across different customer segments to ensure that regardless of the decision to go pro or DIY-install, they are able to meet their customers’ needs and differentiate in the very competitive market. The J.D. Power Home Security Study provides these actionable insights.” The study is focused on the companies/brands that comprise the top two-thirds of market share in each segment, pro and DIY installed. A number of the brands included may work with local dealers or retailers for sales and install, but the customer is essentially evaluating those services as part of the system purchased. It is one and the same from the customer’s perspective, and the sales/install process can either delight or frustrate a customer from the beginning, which can then set the foundation for the entire experience moving forward. Reasons for shopping for a security system tend to differ between pro and DIY shoppers: Both sets are most focused on wanting a newer, more up-to-date system Between the two, pro customers are more often moving into a new home or wanting to take advantage of a discount or bundling opportunity with other products For DIY customers, they are shopping for a system to give them more peace of mind and to protect their property. Reasons for selecting the provider also vary: A pro company is often selected based on brand reputation or a special offer/promo A DIY company is primarily chosen based on price or a positive review. In terms of brand image, we see that customers see both pro and DIY providers similarly in terms of reliability. However, when it comes to being customer-driven, DIY providers receive higher image ratings compared to pro-installed companies.

Private video systems are offering new sources of evidence for police investigations. Growing popularity of private camera registration schemes are facilitating police department access to video captured by cameras in homes and businesses for use in their investigations. Camera registration programmes are organised locally by individual police departments but have common features and operation. By registering their camera systems, citizens and business people provide information to a confidential database listing any cameras police can quickly access in the event of a crime. Knowing which cameras may be near a crime scene avoids police having to go door-to-door in search of possible video footage. Because perpetrators are more careful and aware of possible video coverage in and around a crime scene, video to solve a crime may also come from a camera several blocks away. The best evidence may not be of the crime scene itself but video of nearby pathways and streets. Today’s camera systems also provide information such as location, date and time that can help an investigation Ability to record and retain video Access to cameras can also provide additional viewing angles to provide police new leads such as type of car, clothing, etc. Another benefit is possible use of a camera’s view to help locate lost children, elderly or disabled persons. In addition to actual video, today’s camera systems also provide information such as location, date and time that can help an investigation or be used as evidence in court. Basic requirements for participating video systems are exterior-facing cameras and the ability to record and retain video. It is important to note that registering a camera system with a local police department does not provide active surveillance or a “live feed” of video. Video is only shared after a crime has been committed and when the police request specific video as possible evidence. Registration of camera systems is voluntary Registration merely enables a police department to know where accessible cameras are located. Police then arrange viewing of video footage after the fact by communicating with the camera owners; if a police visit to a residence might pose an additional risk for any reason, camera video today can often be accessed remotely. Registration of camera systems is voluntary; a state-wide proposal in New Jersey in 2015 calling for mandatory camera registration faced privacy backlash and was later amended to make registration voluntary. Collected information is typically the name of the camera owner, contact information, an address where the cameras are located; how many cameras are at the location, the area recorded by the cameras and how the footage is saved. Police arrange viewing of video footage by communicating with the camera owners Residential security camera Portland, Oregon, launched its CrimeReports camera registration programme in 2017, part of its wider effort to get residents involved in fighting crime. In Philadelphia, the police department has been registering cameras since 2011 under its SafeCam programme. The Philadelphia Department of Commerce offers a payment, up to $3,000, to reimburse business owners who install cameras and register them with the police. Camera registration is yielding results. Baltimore’s Citiwatch camera registration system has had a direct impact on criminal apprehension. The San Luis Obispo, California, Police Department reports a high success rate identifying suspects in cases where additional video evidence exists because of the camera registration programme. In Fort Worth, Texas, last May, a residential security camera played a role in capturing a kidnapping suspect. Privacy concerns and community feedback Many of the camera registration schemes have localised branding or acronyms, such as the S.C.R.A.M. (Security Camera Registration and Mapping) programme of Milton, Georgia; the C.A.P.T.U.R.E. (Community and Police Team Up to Record Evidence) programme of New Braunfels, Texas; or the RockView programme of Rockville, Maryland. The idea is based on willing participation of public citizens in helping law enforcement do their jobs Privacy concerns and community feedback prompted Vancouver, Washington, to suspend a camera registration programme for weeks until it could be re-launched earlier this year. Although cities seek to protect information about the locations of cameras, it might be subject to disclosure because of public records laws. Law enforcement and crime prevention Registration of cameras is another aspect of involving the community in law enforcement and crime prevention, not unlike the commonplace Neighbourhood Watch programmes. The idea is based on willing participation of public citizens in helping law enforcement do their jobs. Making video footage available provides important evidence in much the same way a witness to a crime would hopefully testify if asked. By multiplying the availability of cameras that could view elements of a possible crime, the idea is also akin to the modern concept of “crowdsourcing” – the practice of obtaining information or input by enlisting a large number of people. Local jurisdictions stipulate that registrants in the programme should not be construed as agents and/or employees of the police department. There is also a crime prevention element to the programmes, in addition to helping police do their jobs better and more efficiently. Some camera registration programmes provide stickers or yard signs to let the neighbourhood know that their security cameras are helping to fight local crime.

Gunshot detection today is part of more physical security systems than ever before, and many manufacturers are developing interfaces to the latest gunshot detection technologies. Genetec has integrated ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology into its unified IP security platform, Security Center. Thanks to this integration, police departments and security professionals will be able to receive more actionable information, gain rapid access and detailed location insights when a gunshot situation occurs. Cloud-based analysis software ShotSpotter uses wide-area acoustic surveillance that automatically gets activated when gunfire occurs ShotSpotter uses wide-area acoustic surveillance that automatically gets activated when gunfire occurs, providing comprehensive outdoor coverage on campuses and in complex urban geographies. ShotSpotter sensors and cloud-based analysis software triangulate and pinpoint the precise location of each round fired within seconds, the number of shots fired and provide an immediate gunfire alert with an audio clip. Data capture form to appear here! Detailed incident data is immediately sent to SST’s Incident Review Center (IRC), a secure data processing and alert validation facility, where acoustics experts analyse the data and qualify the incident in real-time 24/7. Once validated, an alert is sent directly into Genetec’s Security Center, all in under a minute. Once the alarm is triggered within Security Center upon gunshot detection, operators can quickly access video and other related data surrounding the location of a gunshot alert, and immediately visualise it on Security Center maps, leveraging the dynamic visualisation capabilities of the Security Center Plan Manager. Genetec has integrated ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology into its unified IP security platform Gunshot identification software Stanley Security has announced a partnership with Shooter Detection Systems LLC (SDS), gunshot detection solutions provider. As an authorised dealer, STANLEY Security is now certified to sell, install and service SDS products and services. SDS’s Guardian Indoor Active Shooter Detection System combines acoustic gunshot identification software with infrared gunfire flash detection for a fully automated gunshot detection and alerting solution. The Guardian System immediately detects gunshots and simultaneously alerts building occupants The Guardian System immediately detects gunshots and simultaneously alerts building occupants and first responders within one second and with zero false alerts. Johnson Controls has announced that its exacqVision video management system now integrates with Databuoy Corp.’s ShotPoint acoustic gunshot detection and localisation system to speed response time and heighten the decision-making process for local responders during active shooter situations. Integrated security systems Johnson Controls has also released the Detect360 Active Shooter Response (ASR) system, combining reliable gunshot detection with notification technology to provide immediate warning when a gunshot is fired within a building. By providing early notification and precise location of the shooter, the ASR system gives occupants time to find safety and allows police and security personnel to mitigate the threat up to 60 percent faster. Detect360 ASR gives first responders information as it develops at the scene, including shot location, number of shots, location of the shooter in near real-time and the ability to remotely monitor the situation through integrated security systems. It also collects forensic information that can later be used by law enforcement. The system supports multiple integration options, including video feeds from existing CCTV and intrusion systems, mass notification systems, access control systems and panic button/manual initiation systems. Detect360 ASR gives first responders information as it develops at the scene Public safety access points Listed as one of the most important new technologies debuted at CES 2019 by the Wall Street Journal and NBC News, Safe Zone also showcased its Safe Zone Gunfire Detector (GFD) at ISC West 2019. Priced at $149 per unit, the Safe Zone Gunfire Detector combines infrared and sound detection technologies with immediate cloud-based data analysis that can analyse more than 3,000 data points of each loud noise that exceeds ambient levels by a certain threshold. The system determines the location of shots fired, the number of shots, and the type Utilising the data from multiple detectors simultaneously, the system determines the location of shots fired, the number of shots, and the type and calibre of gun being used. Within 10 seconds of the trigger pull, an alert is sent to Public Safety Access Points in the appropriate dispatch center, giving local 911 dispatchers all critical information on their computers. Reseller recruitment programme Shot Tracer has launched a reseller recruitment programme with a highly attractive on-boarding proposition for qualified dealers. Qualifying resellers can receive a Gunshot Simulator Kit valued at $1,000 when they commit to becoming a Shot Tracer dealer. Shot Tracer’s Eagle Gunshot Detection System easily integrates with virtually any security, alarm, surveillance and access system via contact closure – or wirelessly via IP integration. In fact, Shot Tracer gunshot detection sensors are as easy to install as a smoke detector, so there’s virtually no learning curve for installing dealers. The new Shot Tracer Reseller Recruitment Program includes an exclusive offer for installing dealers to receive a free Gunshot Simulator Kit, valued at over $1000, which is essential for demonstrating Shot Tracer Eagle Gunshot Detection sensors. Terms and conditions apply for qualifying resellers.

STANLEY Security, one of the UK’s renowned security and business solutions providers, has installed a wall mounted Thermal Temperature Monitoring Solution in the reception area of Amcor Flexibles Winterbourne site, as a valuable addition to the raft of measures that the company has in place to protect its staff from COVID-19. As a key manufacturer of pharmaceutical and medical packaging, Amcor Flexibles Winterbourne, based in the UK, has a workforce which has been designated as key workers in the COVID-19 pandemic. Remaining open for business and working at full capacity during the lockdown was and continues to be vital. COVID-19 specific safety measures Amcor has put in place a raft of COVID-19 specific safety measures, with the latest requirement being a temperature monitoring solution that could be used to detect elevated temperatures of anyone entering the main reception area, without putting reception staff in any danger.  Whilst a raised temperature is not necessarily an indication of illness, and many people with the COVID-19 virus are asymptomatic, monitoring temperatures of people arriving on site is one extra measure to help protect against the spread of the virus. Thermal Temperature Monitoring Solution STANLEY Security provided Amcor with an automated Thermal Temperature Monitoring Solution STANLEY Security provided Amcor with an automated Thermal Temperature Monitoring Solution, featuring a wall mounted hybrid thermal network camera, a blackbody calibration device, and an NVR. The contactless, non-invasive system is able to monitor temperatures within large groups of people at a distance, reducing manpower requirements and improving personnel safety. The blackbody device provides a constant reference temperature in view of the thermal camera, for accurate temperature monitoring during continuous operation. This prevents changes in the ambient temperature, such as air conditioning being activated, from affecting the systems accuracy. Security alerts When a person with an elevated temperature is detected by the system, an alert is raised which is then acted upon by reception staff during office hours or security staff out of hours. Amcor has a clear policy for dealing with this situation, which differs depending on the nature of the visitor. For Amcor Flexibles Wintebourne’s Operations Manager, Shaun Golding, the system has proven very straightforward to use and is a valuable addition to the raft of measures the company has in place to protect its staff from COVID-19. Elevated temperature detection Shaun said, “So far we’ve only had one person who was detected with an elevated temperature and was sent for a test. But that single person could have come into contact with five or six people during the course of their working day. By having this Temperature Monitoring Solution in place, we prevented that from happening, further reducing the risk.” He adds, “STANLEY Security installed the system in less than a day, without any disruption to our business. The services they have provided us have been really good and I would recommend them.” As an existing customer, STANLEY Security was familiar with the Amcor site in Bristol, having installed CCTV and access control systems there in the past.

Axis Communications, the provider in network video, has helped develop an innovative and clean energy solution which illustrates the potential of sustainable surveillance technologies in remote locations. In response to a request to produce a system to document part of a major programme of improvements to Scotland’s A9 carriageway, Axis and its partner Camera Control UK, developed a solution which is capable of capturing high-quality 4K time-lapse imagery using entirely renewable sources. One of the main challenges was that the solution needed to be able to capture high-quality surveillance video in an area with no communication networks or local power, while coping with weather extremes and construction logistics. With diesel generators disregarded due to the pollutants they would produce, and the challenges associated with trying to lay power cables over a considerable distance along a route that twists and turns, a clean and sustainable solution was required. Video surveillance helps in better traffic flow The highways project will see a 10-mile stretch of the A9 from Perth to Inverness widened to increase the efficiency of the route and allow for smoother traffic flow. After winning a tender to document the project, local company, MB Productions Ltd, commissioned Camera Control UK to produce a solution. Camera Control UK in turn contacted Axis Communications, the provider in network video technology, to work in collaboration. The resulting video would be used for audit purposes, to provide evidence of best practice, and to serve as example material for future projects. All captured video is relayed back to a central control location using a dedicated wireless network Martin Naylor, Director of Camera Control UK, elaborates: “We realised it had to be an off-grid solution to avoid using local power; a solution that could incorporate wireless communications and utilise renewable energy sources to be environmentally friendly and sustainable over the longer term.” Bullet cameras To bring the solution to life, AXIS P1448-LE 4K short bullet cameras were chosen for their robustness and durability. The final system uses eight solar power packs, charged by a mixture of wind turbine and solar PV panels. Eight towers with mounted cameras are employed at various key touchpoints along the A9. Communications masts, installed to enable cloud connectivity, ensured that the Axis cameras, connected via the IoT, were able to deliver imagery of incredible quality. The whole solution illustrates the possibilities for innovation when utilising the natural elements, having a virtually zero carbon footprint. All captured video is relayed back to a central control location using a dedicated wireless network. The whole system can be remotely monitored to continually check its status of operation. Remote management also enables the cameras to be fine-tuned for precision imagery of the work in progress, without the need to manually touch the cameras, or even to be on-site in person. 4K Imagery Martin Naylor commented on the relationship with Axis that has made this solution possible: “Axis really values innovation and is therefore an ideal partner, not only because the team takes the time to understand the challenges when trying to push the boundaries of what’s possible in surveillance, but also because their drive towards sustainable and ethical practices is an inspiration to other technology companies.” Matt Brown, Director, MBP, said of the solution: “We are now able to capture fantastic 4K imagery of the ongoing work on the A9. Camera Control UK has produced an entirely green solution, an incredible feat of engineering. The Axis cameras are in a completely different league, in terms of quality, to others we’ve seen. This project has been a great success.”

Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) is a company in Indonesia for the transportation and distribution of natural gas. The total length of distribution pipelines of this company is 3,187 km, serving around 84 million customers. As the owner and operator of four transmission pipelines, PGN is responsible for guaranteeing security along the entire chain of conservation and distribution of gas and for delivering products and services in accordance with the needs of consumers. Securing gas supply lines During the transport phase, the gas is pushed through the pipelines at very high pressure. When it reaches the end-users, however, its delivery pressure must be adjusted so that it falls within an acceptable range (as detailed in the contractual delivery specifications). This is to prevent consumers from being exposed to the full transport pressure reached within the pipeline. A metre and regulator station is used to regulate the Natural Gas outlet pressure, and reduce it to an acceptable value. To this end, PGN has developed a meter and regulator station (the Master Control Station) that works via remote control, directed from the control room. This project plays an active role in the PGN's commitment to achieving Operational Excellence in process management, with the focus on optimising safety, improving efficiency and on maximising reliability throughout the gas supply chain operations. PTZ cameras and remote monitoring To guarantee reliability and security of the control function, it is necessary to monitor the process using specialised CCTV equipment for hazardous zones. 10 PTZ units from the MPXHD series have been chosen for the realisation of this surveillance system, because of their reliability in providing perfect video footage and their compliance with the security standards for operation in hazardous areas. The PTZ units are used to directly monitor the metreing and regulating operations remotely from the master control room.

Hikvision, the globally renowned provider of innovative security products and solutions, provides advanced video technologies for The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in the Amur region of Russia to observe and protect Oriental storks, one of the rarest birds in the Russian Far East. Monitoring Oriental storks As the final link of the local food pyramid, the stork is sensitive to water and soil pollution, drying wetlands, and climate change. The Oriental storks are an indicator of the well-being of the Amur basin ecosystems, and observation of the numbers and survival rates of this species plays an important role in local ecosystem protection efforts. Every spring, the Oriental stork flies back from the Yangtze River plains in China to the Amur region. They often choose to build their nests in tall trees or towering objects, which means they are not easy to observe. Researchers have to spend hours on watching without a movement, sitting or lying very still and very close to the nest. Hikvision cameras provided by WWF Russia Six Hikvision cameras provided by WWF Russia were installed by the NGO ‘AmurSEU’ on four Oriental stork nests in Amur province Six Hikvision cameras provided by WWF Russia were installed by the NGO ‘AmurSEU’ on four Oriental stork nests in Amur province. The real-time, high-definition footage provided by the Hikvision cameras around the storks’ home now helps ornithologists observe the hatching of baby storks and observe their growth. An important part of this work is determining if there is any difference between raising baby storks in natural versus human-made nests, which have been built by WWF Russia to increase survival rates. Integrated with Hikvision video technology In May, the first two Oriental stork eggs observed this year hatched in the Amur River basin. Although the nest was situated on a very tall power pylon on the edge of a wetland, ornithologists and bird-watchers located far away were able to witness it with thanks to Hikvision video technology for live broadcast. It is worth mentioning that this is not the first time Hikvision cameras have been used to observe and protect birds. Previously, Hikvision cameras were used in the Green River program to provide continuous monitoring and protection of Bar-headed Geese in their natural habitat.

With more than 2,200 locations and 41,000 associates, Panda Express is America’s family-owned and operated Asian dining concept. Challenged with losses at the point of sale (POS) and growing false alarm penalties, the company turned to Interface Security Systems, a managed services provider delivering managed network, interactive alarm monitoring, video surveillance and business intelligence solutions to help them dramatically decrease shrink and resolve security inadequacies. False alarms and fines Panda store managers faced continuous distractions from false alarms, receiving calls from the legacy alarm company at all hours of the night and incurring fines from local law enforcement for needless police dispatches. Interface monitoring centre instantly verify any alarm from a Panda store “When an alarm went off overnight, our managers would always err on the side of caution, send police in, or go in themselves. That was dangerous in itself if there was actually a burglary happening inside the store,” says Lyle Forcum, Executive Director of Asset Protection at Panda Restaurant Group, parent company of Panda Express. “Additionally, we were losing significant amounts of money on false alarm charges.” Suspicious transaction notification To address the false alarm challenge, Interface installed a next-generation IP Interactive Monitoring system with live video and two-way audio, which offers a virtual, guard-like level of protection in every Panda location. Operators in the Interface monitoring centre instantly verify any alarm from a Panda store with live streaming video, eliminating false alarms. Forcum reports that Panda is saving over $100K per year in false alarm fees Panda had also implemented a customised, exception-based POS reporting system, which notifies Panda management whenever a suspicious transaction takes place at the register. Interface took the tool a step further by integrating it with the video surveillance and alarm systems at each of the Panda locations, allowing management to immediately connect to the video of any problematic transaction. Identify anomalies and prevent shrink The solution enables loss prevention professionals to quickly identify anomalies and prevent shrink. Top offenders from thousands of employees doing millions of transactions can easily be bubbled up to the top. The combination of business intelligence and video surveillance resulted in a massive reduction in shrink and cash shortage at the register. The business intelligence provided allows for focused tracking and improved store operations With Interface, Panda has experienced vast improvements in security for its associates, customers and assets. Forcum reports that Panda is saving over $100K per year in false alarm fees and thousands of dollars per month per store in reduced shrink at the POS. Monitoring intrusion data The business intelligence provided allows for focused tracking and improved store operations, including people development, store performance data comparison, optimised store efficiencies, monitored intrusion data, and cash tracking. Panda and Interface have successfully partnered to create a potent security and loss prevention tool in the Quick Service Restaurant space. “Interface is a partner that's been collaborating with us on our needs from day one,” says Forcum. “The company understands what we need, and then it develops solutions towards that end. It doesn’t just come up with an off-the-shelf product and expect us to purchase it. Interface has shown a real commitment to our business. We meet with them regularly to collaborate on new initiatives and on emerging issues that Panda faces. The company has truly become part of that solution voluntarily and eagerly. Other business partners do not do that. Interface is, in fact, a true part of the Panda team.” A more detailed case study and video testimonial on Panda Express can be found on the Interface website.

The New Athos Cave (also known as Novoafonskaya, Novy Afon Cave, and New Afon Cave) is a karst cave in the Iverian Mountain located in Abkhazia, Georgia. It is one of the largest caves in the world with the volume of its void of about 1,000,000 m³. As a well-known tourist attraction, one of the most important factors that assist tourists visiting this cave is its security. To achieve this, the management of the cave deployed a surveillance solution from Dahua Technology to provide visitors with comprehensive security throughout their cave exploration. Dahua Technology's Vari-focal Bullet Camera Due to the harsh environment with high humidity and low-light conditions in the cave, the customer needed a high-quality monitoring system to ensure the safety of tourists, avoid accidents, as well as achieve remote management. For the low brightness and high humidity condition in the cave, a group of highly reliable infrared cameras were installed. The main function of the cameras is to prevent visitors from crossing the installed fence which might pose danger to them. The IR Megapixel Vari-focal Bullet Camera presents a 2MP resolution with a motorised 2.7mm - 12mm vari-focal lens. With IR illumination, the camera can capture detailed images in low light or total darkness condition, making it suitable for the environment of the cave. IP video surveillance applications Smart IR technology prevents IR LEDS from whiting out images as they come closer to the camera The camera's Smart IR technology adjusts to the intensity of the camera's infrared LEDs to compensate the distance of an object. Smart IR technology prevents IR LEDS from whiting out images as they come closer to the camera. The camera's integrated infrared illumination of up to 60m (197ft) provides high performance lighting under extreme low-light environments. As for back-end equipment, Dahua's NVR5216-16P-4KS2 network video recorder was selected. It offers excellent performance and high recording quality for IP video surveillance applications. For applications where details are critical for identification, this professional NVR provides a powerful processor with up to 4K resolution. It also features a mouse shortcut operation menu, remote management and control, central storage, edge storage, and back up storage. Access camera remotely In addition, the NVR's Heat Map option highlights the areas with the highest concentration of people. This information can then be exported into a customised report to assist in business or forensic analysis. Security is one of the keys to sustainable tourism. These high-quality and reliable surveillance devices provide a convenient way for the customer to access the camera remotely, allowing the security personnel to monitor the situation in the cave 24/7 and respond quickly in case of an accident. The Dahua solution reinforces the security of this popular tourist destination, creating a safe and enjoyable cave exploration experience for visitors all over the world.

In the digital age, software is a component of almost all systems, including those that drive the physical security market. A trend toward hardware commoditisation is making the role of software even more central to providing value to security solutions. Software developments make more things possible and drive innovation in the market. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: How do software improvements drive physical security?  

A basic tenet of sales is ABC – always be closing. But it's a principle that most professional salespeople would say oversimplifies the process. Especially in a sophisticated, high-tech market such as physical security, the required sales skills are much more involved and nuanced. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What unique characteristics are required of salespeople in the arena of physical security systems?

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