Surveillance cameras

IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH expands their headquarters in Obersulm-Willsbach – after a construction period of about one and a half years, the technology centre b39 could be moved into. "Despite COVID 19, the work went almost without a hitch," says managing director Jan Hartmann. "We are very pleased that with the new building we can provide our employees with an ultra-modern and at the same time very attractive place to work.” With more than 4,500 square metres of total space, there are a total of 52 offices and six conference rooms of completely different design, as well as an event room with space for up to 200 people. Product-specific topics On the top floor, a loft-like open space area with individually designed meeting corners offers plenty of inspiration for creative work. Height-adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, shower rooms with towel service and a company restaurant supplied by regional producers with meals subsidised by the employer are further benefits for the employees. Also new is the multi-storey car park behind the building, which has 262 parking spaces and charging stations for electric cars. The spacious premises will be used by IDS itself to train employees in product-specific topics A central aspect of the striking new building is also its use as a platform for further education. Although, due to the current situation, hardly any face-to-face events are possible at present, this will of course change in the future. On the one hand, the spacious premises will be used by IDS itself to train employees in product-specific topics. Image processing technology On the other hand, the b39 Academy, a new branch of IDS, is located there. The aim is to jointly promote the development of digital specialist, methodological and technical skills, for example through event cooperation and knowledge transfer on topics such as image processing technology and artificial intelligence. Contacts with early-stage start-ups are also a focus. The innovative new building is intended to be a forum for all those who bring fresh ideas with them. "Technological progress, socio-cultural change and new work can best be shaped with specialist knowledge, methodological competence and soft skills," emphasises academy director Miriam Brenner. Since 1997, the company has been developing and producing high-quality products for industrial image processing at its Obersulm site. Limitless spectrum of applications IDS once made the USB interface for the camera sector suitable for industrial use Driven by a pioneering spirit and the will to create something really new, founder and owner Jürgen Hartmann has managed to become one of the largest manufacturers of industrial cameras with IDS. With technological foresight and a keen sense of future developments, IDS once made the USB interface for the camera sector suitable for industrial use. A total of three different product lines enable a limitless spectrum of applications in the fields of equipment, plant and mechanical engineering as well as in non-industrial areas such as medical technology, agriculture or logistics. Focusing on technology trends In addition to powerful USB, GigE and 3D cameras, the latest innovation is the visionary product platform IDS NXT with artificial intelligence – a new generation of vision systems for industrial applications. In future, the company, which has around 300 employees, will thus offer not only cameras but also easy-to-use and flexible complete systems for image processing. In addition to artificial intelligence, IDS is currently focusing on the technology trends of machine vision and robotic applications, which are generating growing demand in the 3D segment for camera manufacturers.

ACOEM, a premier manufacturer and supplier of advanced public security solutions, is introducing its state of the art acoustic threat detection technology solution in the United States this year. The solution, known as ATD (Acoustic Threat Detection), uses ACOEM’s signature AI powered technology to sense and track threats to public safety. ATD combines the power of sight and sound to boost a security system’s intelligence using surveillance cameras attached to ACOEM’s signature sensors. Once a sensor detects a threat, the surveillance camera immediately responds by turning to face the threat’s detected location. Threat detection alerts ACOEM recognises the tremendous opportunity their cutting edge technology has to serve and protect communities Real-time threat detection alerts are sent to a VMS so first responders can make quick and informed response decisions. While ACOEM has provided global military security solutions using AI technology for the past 25 years, this is the first time the company is introducing it in the civilian arena. With active shooter events on the rise, ACOEM recognises the tremendous opportunity their cutting edge technology has to serve and protect communities. “Having a sense of security is a basic human need, so we want to use our capabilities for the greater good of society,” says Bobby Darling, Director of Marketing at ACOEM. Active shooter event Partnering with entertainment venues, corporate campuses, schools, and cities will enable ACOEM to implement ATD in the places that are most at risk for an active shooter event. ATD offers indoor and outdoor threat detection sensors. Solutions are customisable to meet the security needs of the establishments it serves. ATD is part of ACOEM’s developing portfolio of security solutions. Future technologies will support the monitoring of public threats beyond gunshots such as air quality levels. To see the product in action, sign up for the Introducing ACOEM Acoustic Threat Detection on December 10th at 1:00 EST.

IDIS, a global security company that designs, develops, manufactures, and delivers surveillance solutions for a wide range of commercial and public sector markets, is proud to be sponsoring and participating in Canadian Security Association’s Security Canada Virtual Trade Show, slated to be held on December 2nd and 3rd, 2020. Security Canada 2020 Visitors to the Security Canada virtual trade show can learn how IDIS’s flagship plug-and-play DirectIP solution offering can significantly benefit both end users and systems integrators. DirectIP encompasses a comprehensive line up of powerful network video recorders (NVRs), network cameras, software, monitors, and accessories that seamlessly connect. It packs a strong punch of everything needed to build a complete video surveillance solution. IDIS DirectIP solution IDIS DirectIP solution delivers rich functionality while eliminating complex and time consuming configuration IDIS DirectIP solution delivers rich functionality while eliminating complex and time consuming configuration. Users love that its network throughput delivers high-definition simultaneous recording and real-time monitoring with no visible latency and that cameras and recorders come with the assurance of industry-renowned warranties. From the security integrator’s perspective, the DirectIP solution makes installation a snap by mutually authenticating devices, thereby ensuring that engineers don’t need to manage passwords, use port forwarding, or have a deep knowledge of IP networking, even for multi-site deployments. In turn, this eliminates the potential for cyber loopholes and combined with dealing with a single vendor for sales and tech support, also ensures a low cost of service. IDIS Centre VMS and ISS solutions Attendees to the Security Canada virtual event will be able to see first-hand how IDIS’s totally cost and licence free IDIS Centre VMS (Video Management Software) allows customers to implement surveillance solutions that encompasses up to 1024 devices, so as to enable a centralised management and control environment for customers with multiple sites, at a considerably lower cost than a server-based system. For larger organisations, IDIS Solution Suite (ISS) delivers enterprise-level VMS functionality without the associated price tag. This allows users to choose the powerful modules and functionality they need with a choice of federation service, IDIS Critical Failover which protects against a range of fault conditions, video wall services, and much more. ISS also gives customers the flexibility to add an unlimited number of sites at no additional cost. AI Box for COVID solution IDIS will also unveil its AI Box for COVID at Security Canada 2020 virtual trade show IDIS will also unveil its AI Box for COVID at Security Canada 2020 virtual trade show. This simple add on appliance includes functions that help adherence to government guideless and hygiene best practices to support reopening, and safe return to work strategies to help prevent the spread of infection. The new IDIS Mobile Plus app will also be showcased, which is supporting users to remotely monitor single and multiple sites by putting powerful VMS functionality at their fingertips. With the ability to view 4K and multiple streams and configure alarms and notifications, it’s enabling the management of day-to-day operations and the ability to respond to incidents and events on the move. IDIS dome and bullet cameras IDIS will also present an end-to-end solutions specific to retail that includes high-performance 5 MP dome and bullet cameras, a compact 5 MP fisheye camera, and the anti-IR reflection 2 MP micro dome camera, which are all popular choices for indoor and outdoor video surveillance and coverage in all lighting conditions. At the Security Canada virtual event, attendees representing the logistics and warehousing sector will learn how IDIS solutions are helping improve operations by tracking goods in and out, mitigating internal shrinkage, and ensuring health and safety compliance with its high performance 12 MP IR Super Fisheye cameras that can cost-effectively replace 3-4 fixed lens cameras.

Hanwha Techwin America, a supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, announced a new app for systems integrators. The new Wisenet QR Scanner App is designed to help quickly create a list of all Wisenet devices associated with a specific project, without having to take the products out of their packaging. The QR code is found on the outside of the product carton, the bottom of the device, as well as on an included extra sticker for Wisenet modular cameras. This allows a technician to place the sticker on drawings to fully capture the device information. Installation and tracking The app, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play can run on any smart mobile device. It is able to capture information on all the latest generations of Wisenet products, including model names, serial numbers, and MAC addresses. This information can then be used to create a Bill of Materials (BOM) to verify that an order has been fulfilled, and ensure that all devices have been installed. IT managers can use it to keep track of devices on the network and their MAC addresses. Supports offline device registration A file is exported from the app and edited on a PC to enable installation engineers to configure the products In addition, the app supports offline device registration with the Wisenet Device Manager software tool. A file is exported from the app and edited on a PC to enable installation engineers to configure the products including pre-programming the IP address, setting an initial password, and more. When the configuration is edited offsite, the imported file will then pre-programme the configuration when on-site, saving time and allowing better allocation of onsite and offsite staff. Creating tools for smooth installation “While installing a small number of cameras will likely have little impact on cost, the labour involved in tracking model names, serial numbers, and associated parts for hundreds of cameras can be significant.” “That’s why at Hanwha, we put so much effort in not only designing cameras that are easy to install but also in creating tools like the new QR scanning app to allow our systems integrators to focus on what they do best: advising customers, planning projects and ensuring a smooth installation instead of spending hours on tracking model names and serial numbers,” said Ray Cooke, Vice President - Products, Solutions, and Integration, Hanwha Techwin America.

PSA, a large consortium of professional systems integrators, announced the addition of Qumulex, to its Managed Security Service Provider Program (MSSP). Qumulex offers a cloud-based, unified access control and video surveillance solution for physical security integrators that serve commercial markets. Modern progressive web app “Qumulex designs products that make the transition from legacy systems to the cloud, easier and more manageable,” said Tim Brooks, Vice President of sales and vendor management for PSA. “This hybrid model allows customers to be both on-premises and in the cloud without having to entirely replace a legacy system. We are very pleased to add Qumulex to our lineup of products.” Qumulex’s video management and access control system is browser-based, using a mobile-first, modern progressive web app that runs on any device with a browser. The Qumulex open platform assures maximum flexibility for security integrators to choose best of breed cameras, door controllers, switches, analytics, and cloud integrations. Migrate on-premises installations to cloud “We’re very pleased to partner with PSA and provide its members a video surveillance and access control platform to migrate their customers from on-premises installations to the cloud and recurring revenue,“ said Tom Buckley, VP Sales & Marketing on Qumulex. “With Qumulex, dealers have one modern, easy to use platform which they can easily manage all of their customers and provide remote setup and support.” PSA’s MSSP program hinges on uniting pioneering partners in cybersecurity and cloud-based security solutions, offering training and certification opportunities and financing options with assistance from PSA.

Boon Edam Inc., a globally renowned provider in security entrances and architectural revolving doors, has announced a new BoonTV event, ‘The Key to Closing the Biggest Gap in Physical Security: Unauthorised Entry’. BoonTV event - webinar In this event, JC Powell, Vice President of Sales at Boon Edam, reveals the assumptions and misconceptions around entrance security in physical security planning and how to effectively bring reliable entrance control to a facility to avoid costly risks and liabilities. Three inputs for controlling access to a facility The BoonTV episode begins by addressing the audience with two fundamental questions: Do homeowners know who is in their building at any given time? How many unauthorised people are acceptable in a facility? Importance of controlling access in premises These two questions set the stage for reinforcing the importance of controlling access These two questions set the stage for reinforcing the importance of controlling access and introducing three inputs for effectively monitoring who is in a building at all times: People, Process and Technology. JC Powell will then provide examples of how organisations must balance all three inputs, and explain how technology (the combination of access control systems, security entrances, biometrics, cameras, etc.) directly alleviates the pressure on both people and process. Scalable Security: three levels of entrance capabilities Next, the episode introduces the concept of ‘Scalable Security’, which helps the security professional select the right entrance type for each area of their building, based on the entrance's true capabilities related to tailgating mitigation - Deter, Detect, or Prevent. The true capability of an entrance will have a direct impact to the inputs of physical security, the People, Process and adjacent Technologies. Real-life case studies are shared that reveal the mistakes organisations have made before landing on the best entrance solution for their true needs. The future of the entry post COVID-19 The webinar concludes with a short discussion around the impacts of the current pandemic. JC Powell will share how he sees the future of the entry based on his discussions with industry consultants, integrators and end users, including discussions around touchless entry, thermal cameras and antimicrobial finishes and films.

It's a very common purchase for people to seek a smart security camera to remotely link them to their home whilst at work. Now the emphasis has shifted, with a lot more people working from home, business owners should consider a surveillance device to deter would-be thieves, protecting valuable equipment crucial for businesses to operate successfully. A robust security camera setup can aid existing security staff, and give business owners peace of mind out of hours.    According to a recent report, police forces are having to carry out extra night patrols in empty city and town centres, as burglars target shops, pubs and other commercial premises during the pandemic. During these unprecedented times, investing in a video security system can save you and your business money – and in more than one way. In addition to preventing loss of property from inside, surveillance cameras also prevent acts of theft and vandalism by outside individuals However, technology, improved mobile connectivity, apps, and cloud technologies has changed the security market and made it easy for anyone to set up a surveillance ecosystem with easy installation and constant round the clock, cloud monitoring. Plus, you can access footage from anywhere in the world via devices and apps – just in case you have to skip the country! The best cameras for SMBs Most good cameras have the much same functionality: excellent video and audio capabilities, remote access and programming, motion and sound detection, and the ability to capture still or video images and audio and save the data to the Cloud. But the burning question is, when you're trying to find a need in a haystack, what will work best for a small to medium sized business? A robust security camera setup can aid existing security staff, and give business owners peace of mind out of hours Now you can buy cameras that come packed with features such as integrated night vision, 1080p resolution, microSD card slot for local recording, two-way audio functionality as well as the latest latest 128bit encryption. They also have wide-angle lenses allowing users to see more of their office with a single camera, and some come with free, intelligent AI-Based motion detection. The AI gives users more choices on what is captured by the camera and when they should be alerted. Users can specify what types of motion they would like to detect, such as an intruder as opposed to a dog, an object crossing a defined boundary or into a specific area. They can also define multiple zones, alerting them immediately when movement is detected in particular areas. Easy installation is crucial These security cameras should also be easy enough to install and use that you don't need to fork out for expensive expert installation, and many can work with existing CCTV and CCTV DVR systems you may already have set-up. Many of the business security cameras are Wi-Fi enabled and come with their own apps, so you can view footage on your smartphone or tablet, no matter where you are in the world. It means you don't need to pay for a security team to watch the footage at all times (though if you can afford it, that won't hurt), and you can store your videos locally with an NVR on a HD, in the cloud with mydlink or do both with a hybrid NVR/cloud recorder. The apps use Rich Notifications which send a push notification with snapshot to the mobile device the moment activity is detected. Users can react immediately without the need to log into the app by accessing the camera’s live view or calling one of two pre-assigned contacts with a single tap. Any motion-triggered recordings can be saved in the cloud, or locally on a microSD card. Indoor, Outdoor or both? Indoor cameras can be smaller, more lightweight and are usually less intrusive than bulkier outdoor cameras The primary distinction between indoor and outdoor security cameras is the types of external factors each camera has to be able to withstand. While both types of cameras usually come in similar styles and with comparable features, outdoor cameras need to be able to contend with all types of weather and varying light conditions. Outdoor cameras are also more vulnerable to being tampered with, so they are typically made of more durable materials, like metal, and may be heavier or even housed in a casing in order to discourage easy removal. Indoor cameras can be smaller, more lightweight and are usually less intrusive than bulkier outdoor cameras. Both indoor and outdoor cameras utilise features like infrared, allowing for clear pictures in low light conditions and easy transitions when there is a sudden change in light-changing automatically from colour images in bright light to black and white when it gets darker. When doing your research, features to look out for include: Wide angle lens for optimum room view or full view of the front of your property Full HD 1080p at 30fps   ONVIF compatible - Open Network Video Interface Forum - The forum aims to standardize how IP products within the video surveillance industry communicate with each other. Night vision - look at length of the night vision - 5m is about right Your options will depend on your budget and specific needs, but the above features are a great start when you come to buy.

As the multi-billion-dollar market for artificial-intelligence-based video analytics continues to grow, so does the number of video analytics solution providers. In Q3 of 2018, Stockholm-based consulting company Memoori identified 128 active companies in the supply chain for AI video analytics [i]. This list is far from exhaustive, considering how analytics has been gaining interest and becoming mainstream in 2020, with users expecting more accurate alerts based on object detection instead of motion detection, hardware providers developing more powerful but compact chip sets for deployment, and more startup solution providers carving out their niche in the market.   Given so many choices, the question arises as to how a system integrator can evaluate and select the best solution for his customer. Although the criteria vary for each vertical, there are some key metrics to consider across the field: Open platform Ease of use Robustness and reliable performance Versatility Good support and integration Low total cost of ownership 1. Open platform Open platform allows the user to have complete flexibility, avoid being locked into any particular manufacturer, and utilise the best-of-breed solution available in each category. Analytics has been gaining interest and becoming mainstream in 2020 In 2019, an IPVM survey shows that 51% of system integrators always prefer an open platform to an end-to-end solution (i.e., all components including camera, VMS, analytics, etc. provided by one manufacturer), and 24% select open platform or end-to-end depending on customer requirements [ii]. For analytics, as the users commonly have an existing infrastructure, investing in a technology overhaul would be too expensive. An open-platform analytics product, i.e., a camera-agnostic, VMS-agnostic, and computer-server-agnostic product, will add value to the existing infrastructure within a reasonable budget. Open platform also makes it easier and more cost-efficient to upgrade each component when necessary. 2. Ease of use One of the main reasons and goals of applying AI to security is to help the user automate the process of watching hours and hours of surveillance videos, extract useful information and send alerts when necessary. In other words, AI should make it easier for the user to operate the security system. Thus, a good AI video analytics solution must be easy to set up and connect to the existing infrastructure, easy to use on a daily basis, and easy to scale with the expansion of the business. Let us examine each point in more details: Easy to set up: a turn-key, plug-and-play solution helps save time and money. The system integrator can spend a couple of hours instead of days to help the customer set up. In both 2018 and 2020, the most common reason that integrators cited for choosing a solution is that “it just works” [iii][iv]. Easy to use: an intuitive, no-learning-curve user interface allows the customer to make the solution second-nature, maximize its utility and gets the highest return on investment. The best-case scenario is that everyone in the user’s organisation, e.g., every police officer in a city police department, can use the solution on a daily basis, not limited to a technical staff with rigorous training. Easy to scale: the solution must be designed to seamlessly scale in different ways: number of cameras (e.g., from a few to a few thousands); deployment locations (e.g., can we access data in our branch office in another city? how about another country?); types of device and deployment (e.g., body-worn cameras, in-vehicle, control center, cloud). 3. Robustness and reliable performance Traditional VMD (video motion detection) -based analytics have many limitations and false alarms, so AI-based analytics were developed, primarily to identify different objects in the videos with high accuracy. However, such accuracy must be achievable in different real-life environments. The best solution does not let low lighting, snow and rain, spider crawling in front of the cameras, etc., interfere with human intrusion detection or license plate recognition at night. In the case of temperature detection, users should be able to walk by the system at a normal pace without removing the mask to minimise disruption and maximise worker efficiency. A more robust solution means less time and resource spent on false alarms. 4. Versatility A versatile, feature-rich, multi-functionality video analytics is the most effective choice for system integrators in the long term. Not limited to only object detection, AI can be trained to recognise higher levels of details (e.g., faces, age, gender, license plates), track objects (including people and vehicles), and detect certain behaviours (e.g., loitering, theft). In other words, a more versatile analytics solution can recognise more types and behaviors of objects for more use cases. Most users have certain pain points today and are looking for only one or a few solutions. However, as the organisation grows, new situations and requirements may arise, which call for new detection functions in video analytics. The costs and complexity will add up quickly if each solution has only one function. A few examples: An LPR camera may be perfect for the need to record all license plates today, but if the police wants to find a black Toyota Prius with “A23” in the plate number, a solution that can detect the plate number, vehicle make and model will save much more time and effort. Intrusion detection based on the ability to distinguish human from other moving objects (e.g., animals) is only the first step. What if the user needs an alert for people that enter a construction zone without a hard hat and safety vest? The answer is an AI solution that can grow its repertoire. In the current pandemic, business must adopt temperature screening, distancing detection, occupancy detection, and mask detection; a solution that can provide all four analytics in one platform is clearly more useful than four individual solutions, not to mention whether the solution can be repurposed after the pandemic has been resolved. 5. Good support and good integration One of the main reasons that system integrators might select an end-to-end solution instead of an open-platform one is technical support: more responsiveness and less finger-pointing. In terms of responsiveness, good technical support is a part of the ease of use, where the system integrator and the user can rest assured that any question can be answer via email or a phone call to the manufacturer. A more robust solution means less time and resource spent on false alarms In terms of having a one-stop-shop solution to reduce finger-pointing, good support means the manufacturer can provide easy integration to 3rd-party systems, which includes API interface support. One example is access control. Video analytics is a great tool to enhance access security (e.g., face recognition to open doors for employees; LPR for parking management; weapon detection linked to automatic locked-down system), but only 24% of video surveillance systems today are integrated with access control [v]. Two of the main reasons: (1) integration is expensive, and (2) the systems are not compatible. Both hurdles can be overcome if the analytics solution bridges the gap between cameras and access control system via its API. 6. Low total cost of ownership These six criteria help both the system integrator and the end-user save time, money, and effort Cost is always a determining factor, especially in the SMB market [vi]. Customers’ expectations are high, and higher-resolution cameras are decreasing in price and increasing in numbers, which means more data to process than ever. A good analytic software solution is not only capable of many functions, its algorithms are efficient enough to fit more into the same server specs, and it does not require expensive cameras to have good accuracy, thereby increasing cost saving for the entire system. In summary, these six criteria help both the system integrator and the end-user save time, money, and effort and get the most out of video analytics in the long run. A high-performance, versatile, turnkey solution is already a reality with today’s technology, and it will only continue to improve, so there is no reason to settle for less. [i] Memoori, The Global Market for Intelligent Video Analytics 2018 to 2023, 2018 [ii] IPVM, Open vs. End-to-End System: Statistics 2019, November 11, 2019 [iii] John Honovich, IPVM, Favorite Video Analytic Manufacturers 2018, April 2, 2018 [iv] IPVM, Favorite Video Analytic Manufacturers 2020, February 25, 2020 [v] Brian Rhodes, IPVM, Access Control and Video Integration Statistics 2020, October 8, 2020. [vi] Brian Karas, IPVM, Low Cost, Low End Competitors Challenge SMB Surveillance Market, September 1, 2017

Smart cities, airports, stadiums, hospitals and other organisations are now liaising with government bodies and law enforcement to propel a new dawn of collaborative security and communication. The influx of new technology coupled with the ever-changing political and social landscapes has meant security is having to evolve. Artificial Intelligence is now allowing law enforcement, security personnel and organisations to a transformational method of fighting crime, maintaining public security and significantly finding persons of interest. AI-powered surveillance cameras Utilising surveillance cameras with implemented AI has revolutionised finding missing persons. Facial recognition and IREX.ai’s “Searchveillance” have equipped both the public and private sector with the tools to collaboratively work together in finding persons of interest. The influx of new technology coupled with the ever-changing political and social landscapes has meant security is having to evolve Finding missing persons has been an underfunded and challenging issue across society, with many countries having no funding at all after the initial police investigation. Through artificial intelligence, surveillance cameras will never sleep on finding missing people by setting up alerts for once a missing person appears under surveillance. How it’s happening Technology like IREX.ai has delivered an AI collaborative security solution which is implemented into surveillance cameras enabling them to become “smart cameras”. Both public and private sector have not been able to collaborate through utilising their existing cameras, which are now powered by AI-backed smart video technology. With surveillance systems now veering toward becoming cloud based, this now allows an unlimited number of cameras for an organisation or city to connect to. The AI platform is helping bringing about a collaborative network to help monitor crowded public areas in real time, something that would have taken a lot of manpower, time and cost to produce. Quicker response through “searchveillance” This has now become a crucial element in the fight against COVID-19. The ability to track and trace has been very effective but this particular AI module may only just be getting started in the fight to find persons of interest. When an individual goes missing or is abducted, every second is crucial along with information gathered. Unfortunately, this brings in human-error, when a person believes they may have seen the person of interest, it can lead law enforcement and authorities critically, in the wrong direction. AI-powered Facial Recognition helps eliminate human-error through 99.5% accuracy success, leading authorities to definitive sightings and factual information through the help of AI. “Searchveillance” enables authorities to liaise with the public and private sector organisations who have implemented the AI into their surveillance to run a single search with the person of interest’s photo. Instantaneously the user receives immediate results of, if and when this person last appeared under surveillance. Long-term missing persons It’s common knowledge that after 72 hours, statistically speaking the chance of finding the individual quickly diminish, but that doesn’t mean people stop searching. This week alone, September 2020, US Marshalls found and rescued 25 missing children in Ohio, many of whom had been missing for years. AI-powered facial recognition helps eliminate human-error through 99.5% accuracy success Implementing AI into surveillance cameras is becoming more frequently adopted around the world, enabling alerts in surveillance cameras and notifying appropriate law enforcement when a missing person appears under surveillance are all extraordinary tools. The alert system from the persons photo in the software. Facial recognition allows law enforcement to receive real-time footage of the missing person and their location. It is of great assistance for law enforcement to simply receive a notification and a real time feed of individual they are looking for. Security is becoming a more collaborative effort In light of recent events throughout the world, with protests surrounding police brutality, rioting, violence and deaths, security is evolving and it has to. Enabling technologies and building security collaboration and communication platforms is assisting in the fight to find missing people. It’s not just smart cities and smart airports who are providing a fishing net for find persons of interest, it’s also stadiums. The Superbowl and other major sporting events generate some of the biggest human slavery and trafficking busts of the year. Stadiums are now harnessing the responsibility to help counteract this and set up these alerts, utilise the AI in their cameras and collaborate with authorities, thus playing their part in finding persons of interest. IREX.ai has helped deliver the AI and the platform for collaborative security and communication, as technology grows and becomes more in our lives than we care for it to be, you often forget of the results it can provide, such as reuniting a family.

Combining artificial intelligence (AI) with cloud video creates systems that are smarter, safer and more cost-effective. Furthermore, adding AI capabilities can widen the advantage gap of cloud video systems compared to on-premise systems, especially for cost-conscious end users. “We strongly believe the total cost of ownership (TCO) for cloud systems is more affordable,” says Ken Francis, President of cloud video surveillance company Eagle Eye Networks. “And introducing really powerful AI will expand the cost differences.” Combining AI and cloud video To finance realisation of their vision to combine AI and cloud video, Eagle Eye Networks has raised $40 million of Series E funding from venture capital firm Accel. The money will allow Eagle Eye to continue its steep growth curve and leverage AI on its true cloud platform to reshape video surveillance. “The investment will make video surveillance smarter and safer for end users,” says Francis. In effect, end users have maximum flexibility to manage and analyse their video data however they wish The system sends captured video to the cloud, where a variety of AI or video analytics systems can extract valuable data from the captured video. Eagle Eye offers an application programming interface (API) to enable integration of best-in-breed third-party AI and analytics systems to leverage the video. In effect, end users have maximum flexibility to manage and analyse their video data however they wish. Delivering lower costs In addition to offering integration with third-party systems, Eagle Eye is investing in its own AI development, and hiring additional development and customer service personnel. As new technologies become part of the Eagle Eye platform, customers benefit from lower costs because of economies of scale. Keeping the emphasis on development of cloud systems, Eagle Eye also offers customers maximum flexibility in choosing their cameras. Eagle Eye’s on-premise cyber-hardened “bridge” can connect to almost any camera from thousands of manufacturers, including those connecting with HD-over-coax. The COVID-19 pandemic has expanded the need for end users to view their premises remotely, and in the process has highlighted shortcomings of their existing video systems. As a result, video manufacturers - including Eagle Eye Networks - are seeing a surge in end users updating their systems. Cloud video surveillance Given the costs of installing and maintaining hard drives for local storage (and additional challenges during a pandemic lockdown), more end users are opting to use cloud systems. In effect, the COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating installation of cloud video surveillance. “Our industry is the most resilient in the world,” says Francis. Eagle Eye Networks was on track to double their growth in the first quarter, and then COVID slowed everything down As a whole, 2020 has been a successful year for the cloud system provider. Eagle Eye Networks was on track to double their growth in the first quarter, and then the COVID lockdown slowed everything down. During the second quarter, their revenue from setup fees and appliances fell by 35% or so, but subscriptions increased slightly including customers looking to keep watch over their shuttered businesses. Temperature alerting solutions The third quarter saw another big uptick in business; August and September were booming, and not just from projects that were delayed from Q2. There has also been a spike in customers looking to apply temperature alerting solutions, says Francis. In uncertain economic times, cloud systems require around 40% less up-front costs, and provide flexibility to eliminate the system (and the expense) at any time without losing a large financial investment.  Cloud video has reached a tipping point in the United States, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, among other locales, but the technology lags in some other geographic areas such as France. Driving adoption is availability and cost of sufficient upload speed and bandwidth. In addition to Eagle Eye’s branded growth, the company also provides the OEM engine behind a half dozen or so cloud systems offered by other manufacturers. Backing multi-site enteprises About eight years old, Eagle Eye Networks has focused squarely on the small- and middle-sized business (SMB) market, especially multi-site businesses such as retail, banking and healthcare. They also work with local governments and K-12 schools. Moving forward, the company will seek to expand more into multi-site enterprise customers, some of which have 1,000 locations around the world and need to store their video locally to meet regulatory requirements. Multi-site businesses, benefit from the cloud by eliminating the need for local IT equipment and expensive staff Multi-site businesses, especially, benefit from the cloud by eliminating the need for local IT equipment and expensive staff. As internet connectivity becomes less expensive than installing new cable infrastructure, cloud systems will become more attractive to large campus environments such as colleges and airports, says Francis. The advent of 5G connectivity will also be a plus. All Eagle Eye products are NDAA compliant. Premium support services Further expanding its services, Eagle Eye Networks is poised to launch “Premium Support Services,” in which the cloud provider’s employees will proactively monitor and service customer sites for a minimum additional monthly fee. The cloud structure enables most problems to be addressed and solved remotely without needing to send personnel to a site. The new investment from Accel, a funding partner of top-tier tech companies such as Facebook, Dropbox and Spotify, is Accel's first investment in the security industry. In addition to investing in AI, Eagle Eye also plans to leverage the funding to expand into new regional markets with new data centres and additional staff in business development, sales and support roles.

Facial recognition is becoming more popular in newer systems for access control — a shift that began before the pandemic and has intensified with a market shift toward “touchless” systems. A new facial recognition platform is emerging that responds to the access control industry’s increased interest in facial recognition by expanding the concept with a new higher level of technology. At the core of the new system is high-performance, true-3D sensing with facial depth map processing at low power consumption, which enriches the capabilities of small-footprint access control devices. New proficiencies include anti-spoofing (preventing the use of a 2D photo of an authorised user to gain entry) and anti-tailgating (preventing an unauthorised person from gaining entry by following an authorised user) in real time and in challenging lighting conditions. The system uses “true 3D sensing,” which incorporates single-camera structured-light 3D sensing—as opposed to dual-camera depth sensing or IR video imaging-based approaches. AI vision processing and 3D sensing technologies The new “Janus reference design” incorporates AI vision processing, 3D sensing technologies, and RGB-IR CMOS image sensor technologies from Ambarella, Lumentum and ON Semiconductor. Specifically, Lumentum’s high-reliability, high-density VCSEL projector for 3D sensing combines with ON Semiconductor’s RGB-IR CMOS image sensor and Ambarella’s powerful AI vision system on chip (SoC). The Ambarella, Lumentum, and ON Semiconductor engineering teams worked together to incorporate their complementary technologies into the reference design. A reference design offers OEM product and engineering teams a fully functional engineering reference implementation that they can use as the basis for their own product. Teams will often customise a reference design with their choice of various third-party hardware components to fit their product specifications and positioning. They might also integrate their own software, algorithms, and back-end system integrations. The advantage to this approach is that the manufacturer can get to market quickly with a next-generation product that emphasises their core strengths. 3D depth information for facial recognition Generally, it takes between nine months and a year for a manufacturer to get to market using a fully functional reference design, such as the one developed jointly by Ambarella, Lumentum and ON Semiconductor. The Janus platform leverages 3D depth information generated via structured light for facial recognition with a >99% recognition accuracy rate. Traditional 2D-based solutions are prone to false acceptance and presentation attacks, whereas 3D sensing delivers advanced security—just as mobile phones use true-depth cameras for facial recognition. 3D facial recognition also significantly reduces the gender and ethnic biases demonstrated by some 2D facial recognition solutions. The Janus reference design is also aimed at future smart locks for enterprise and residential use: its unique single-camera 3D sensing solution will help OEMs overcome cost and manufacturability barriers, while the ultra-low power edge AI capability can effectively extend the battery life, which in turn reduces maintenance cost. Video security and access control Ambarella sees touchless access control, as well as the convergence of video security and access control, as the mega-trends driving industry innovation and growth—using video, computer vision, and 3D sensing to not only address safety and security, but also to improve the user experience and public health, says William Xu, director of marketing for Ambarella. The convergence of video security cameras and access control readers has been widely discussed by leading access control OEMs. In many cases, they already integrate video security cameras, readers, door controllers, cloud-access, and the like. In most enterprise installations, one would typically find security cameras installed where there are access control readers. Combining the two devices significantly reduces the maintenance cost and system complexity. “In comparison to fingerprint or other contact-based approaches, Janus-based access control is touchless—requiring no physical contact with authentication hardware such as fingerprint sensors or keypads—reducing infection risk while enabling a seamless experience,” says Mr. Xu. “The Janus platform provides true 3D depth information to prevent unauthorised individuals from mimicking legitimate users, and the advanced embedded AI processor enables tracking and anti-tailgating algorithms. Janus-based devices perform well in challenging lighting conditions and they are capable of authenticating multiple users simultaneously, with imperceptible latency.” Access Control and public health What was once purely a security challenge—namely, how to prevent unauthorised entry into a restricted area—has evolved into a public health challenge as well. Many traditional access control methods, from number pads to fingerprint readers, require touch in order to function, and if the current global pandemic has made one thing evident, it’s that minimising physical contact between users and surfaces is vital to community well-being. Janus was originally designed to facilitate the next generation of facial-recognition-based access control readers—enabling 3D sensing and high recognition speed for seamless authentication. COVID-19 has accelerated industry-wide research, development, and timelines for Janus-based solutions, says Mr. Xu. Deep learning and artificial intelligence drive all the new capabilities offered in Janus—capabilities that are only possible due to the platform’s high computational horsepower. The core deep learning and AI capabilities of Janus enable a wide range of advanced features only possible with an embedded vision SoC, says Mr. Xu. All are performed in real time, even when multiple users are being processed simultaneously. These include the extraction and comparison of facial depth maps with those registered in the system; 3D liveness detection, ensuring that the system can distinguish between real users and photo or video playback attacks; anti-tailgating, which relies on computer vision algorithms to detect and track when an unauthorised person follows a legitimate user inside; face mask detection; and people counting. VCSEL technology According to Ken Huang, Director of Product Line Management, 3D Sensing, Lumentum: “Lumentum’s VCSEL technology is one of the Janus design’s core strengths and differentiators. The process begins when Lumentum’s high-resolution dot projector projects thousands of dots onto the scene to create a unique 3D depth pattern of a user’s face. Most traditional biometric facial security systems rely on 2D images of users—simple photographs—which reduces authentication accuracy. In contrast, the 3D depth map generated by Lumentum’s technology provides the foundation of a more accurate, more secure, and more intelligent system overall. In addition, Lumentum’s VCSEL solutions incorporate a Class 1, eye-safe laser with zero field failures to date.” Adds Paige Peng, Product Marketing Manager, Commercial Sensing Division, ON Semiconductor: “If we think of Ambarella’s CV25 as the brain of the Janus design, the AR0237IR from ON Semiconductor is the eye. The AR0237IR image sensor captures the information, and the CV25 processes it. Other face recognition systems use two “eyes” – one to recognise RGB patterns to generate the viewing image stream, and another IR module to detect liveliness in motion. The Janus solution leverages a single “eye”—the AR0237IR—to obtain both visible and infrared images for depth sensing and advanced algorithms such as anti-spoofing and 3D recognition. AR0237IR also provides good sensitivity in various lighting conditions and supports high-dynamic-range (HDR) functions.” The single-camera 3D sensing solution for access control operates in three seamless steps: Step 1: Lumentum’s high-resolution dot projector creates a unique 3D depth map of a user’s face; Step 2: ON Semiconductor’s RGB-IR image sensor captures the high-resolution images from Step 1, even in low-light or high dynamic range conditions; Step 3: Ambarella’s advanced vision SoC takes the high-resolution images captured in Step 2 and uses deep neural networks (DNNs) for depth processing, facial recognition, anti-tailgating, and anti-spoofing while video encoding and network software run simultaneously.

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

Security monitoring, intrusion detection, parking management, one installation of Hikvision technology can do all this, and more. Discover how the 2000 Hotel in Kigali is using Hikvision technology to make operations more secure and efficient on every floor of its luxury four-star accommodation. The 2000 Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda, is known as the ‘highest hotel in Kigali’, offering captivating views over the city and the mountains. Guests enjoy the hotel’s four-star luxury facilities for work and leisure, taking advantage of its central location in the heart of Rwanda’s bustling capital city. Security of hotel guests has always been paramount, and so soon after the hotel was built, the management team installed security cameras throughout. However, over time it turned out that the imagery captured simply wasn’t clear enough to be useful in many situations. Underground parking lot Unfortunately, we started to notice that goods were going missing in the supermarket, as well as in the warehouse" What’s more, there were further security issues following the opening of a new supermarket on the hotel’s second floor. “Unfortunately, we started to notice that goods were going missing in the supermarket, as well as in the warehouse,” explains Miao Zhang, the Managing Director, 2000 Hotel. “Sometimes we noticed cash was missing from the registers, too.” In addition to this, the hotel was seeking a more efficient way to manage its underground parking lot. “The hotel was using a guard to let people in and out of the parking lot, and to calculate payments. But with more than 500 spaces to look after, this took time, often causing traffic jams as visitors waited to leave. Plus, the parking fees were sometimes incorrect,” explains Jaden. “Consequently, the team decided to explore how technology might be able to help.” Intrusion alarm system The 2000 Hotel chose a complete Hikvision solution, featuring 70 security cameras, a 60-channel intrusion alarm system for the supermarket, and an entrance/exit and payment system for the parking lot. In the corridors of the hotel and in the supermarket, the team installed Hikvision Dome Network Cameras (DS-2CD2145FWD-I). These discreet cameras offer high quality images, even in low light conditions. In the hotel lobby, the stairwells and in the supermarket, the team installed Hikvision Bullet Network Cameras (DS-2CD2T45FWD-I5), with extended zoom and infrared capabilities that are ideal for these larger spaces. At the supermarket checkouts, the team installed Hikvision Varifocal Bullet Network Cameras (DS-2CD2645FWD-IZS), which feature a motorised varifocal lens for close monitoring of this busy location. Varifocal IR bullet cameras Meanwhile, Hikvision Varifocal IR DarkFighter Bullet Cameras (DS-2CD5A26G0-IZS) were installed at the main entrance of the hotel and the supermarket. These feature a wide dynamic range, ensuring clear images even when the cameras are facing strong light. To protect the supermarket outside of opening hours, the 2000 Hotel installed a complete Hikvision intrusion alarm system. The alarm system contains a PIR sensor (DS-PD2-D15AME), which is installed near the window of the supermarket. If someone intrudes in from the window at night, the system will be triggered and an alarm will be issued. Not only that, there is also a panic alarm station (DS-PEA1-21) in the control room of the supermarket. If an emergency occurs, people can use the tool to realise alarm aid at the first time. ANPR video unit The 2000 Hotel is managing the whole solution through Hikvision IVMS-5200E software Finally, at the entrance and exit of the underground parking lot, the hotel installed the Hikvision ANPR Video Unit (DS-TCG227-A), along with barriers, a card station and an integrated payment system, also from Hikvision. The 2000 Hotel is managing the whole solution through Hikvision IVMS-5200E software. Thanks to the high quality Hikvision technology, live review is very clear, making it ideal to support the investigation of any security incidents. However, since cameras were installed, there have been fewer incidents to deal with. What’s more, the supermarket team are better equipped to respond in the event of an out-of-hours breach. “If an intruder triggers the alarm, the duty manager gets an instant alert on their phone with quick access to relevant footage. This gives them real peace of mind,” says Jaden Huang, the Project Manager from Hikvision. “Indeed, it’s possible to view the status of the whole hotel system from a laptop or phone.” Parking management solution Down in the basement parking lot, the Hikvision parking management solution is working effectively. “Parking has become faster and more automated. For example, barriers will open and close automatically when customers take or insert a card, and parking charges are automatically calculated. And there are no more jams on exit,” confirms Jaden. The 2000 Hotel team are working on a new building in Kigali, with construction almost completed. The plan is to use Hikvision technology here, too. Miao says “Hikvision has provided the 2000 Hotel in Rwanda with world-class video technology that solved a host of our security and operational challenges. They also offer excellent support in one centralised location. We fully appreciate their professional service, and look forward to continuing our working relationship.”

One of the largest public train operators in the United Kingdom, Southeastern Rail Network, now relies on a smart video security solution from Bosch Security Systems to secure twelve train depots, including five unmanned locations, against theft and intrusion. The fully digital video surveillance system presents a significant upgrade to the British train operating company, which provides train services between London, Kent and parts of East Sussex and transports 6, 40,000 passengers each weekday on its 392 trains. Built-in Intelligent Video Analytics Powered by cameras featuring built-in Intelligent Video Analytics, the solution was installed and configured to the specific requirements at the train depots by Bosch integration partner, Taylor Technology Systems Ltd., over the course of six months. Video security system relies on machine learning algorithms to automatically sound alarms on security threats Fully operational at all twelve locations, the video security system relies on machine learning algorithms to automatically sound alarms on security threats, such as intruders and perimeter breaches. Beyond security applications, the system also tracks important metadata on the arrival times of trains, while also monitoring deliveries at the train depots, among other AI-assisted functions that it carries out. IP-based cameras with Starlight technology The cameras portfolio installed across the twelve depots replaces an analogue legacy solution with IP-based security cameras from the Flexidome, Dinion, and Autodome product lines of Bosch Security Systems. These smart cameras include Bosch’s Intelligent Video Analytics capabilities as a built-in feature, ensuring that the most relevant video data can be precisely applied to the requirements of the train depots. Because night-time security and surveillance is critical, especially at the five unmanned train depots on the network, the Bosch cameras rely on Starlight technology to provide full intelligent analytics at night and in low light levels. The Starlight technology supports colour filtering down to a light level of only 0.0077 lux, so as to deliver detailed monochrome images where other cameras show no image at all, and guard against intruders and unauthorised entry around the clock. Featuring digital ‘trip wire’ to counter false alarms Highly resilient against false alarms, the smart cameras can detect movement at the perimeters of the train depots using a digital ‘trip wire’. In case of a security breach, the system alerts Southeastern Rail Network’s watch personnel, who can view live camera footage, as well as recordings of incidents for heightened situational awareness and total perimeter security. Instead of relying on the pre-configured capabilities, such as vehicle tracking and more, security personnel can also use the built-in camera trainer function to ‘teach’ new functionality, such as detecting certain types of objects or situations. Remote video recordings storage with Divar recorders Recordings from the depots are safely stored and managed remotely with Divar recorders in encrypted format As an integral part of this end-to-end Bosch security solution, recordings from the depots are safely stored and managed remotely, using Divar all-in-one recorders in encrypted format. When looking at the bigger picture, the video security solution adopted by Southeastern Rail Network is part of an industry-wide evolution from cameras as mere video capturing devices to smart sensors capable of collecting rich metadata. Insights beyond security This metadata unlocks unique insights beyond security, including video analytics at the train depots that support applications such as monitoring deliveries to onsite buildings, providing access to personnel and logging the arrival and departure times of incoming trains. The system thereby not only ensures that all train depots remain fully guarded and protected 24/7 against criminal access, but also provides a data-based foundation to keep efficiency gains and cost savings on track in the long run.

Since its completion in 2017, the Gazprom Arena has served as the home ground stadium for the Russian football club Zenit St. Petersburg. And as one of the host stadiums for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Euro Football Championship, the Gazprom Arena must also satisfy the strict security regulations of FIFA, UEFA and ESSMA. When selecting the video security system, the managers responsible at Zenit therefore opted for a solution from the German manufacturer Dallmeier. With its patented Panomera multifocal-sensor system, Dallmeier guarantees the security of many stadiums all over the world. The objective was providing coverage with video security technology for the entire area surrounding the stadium, the entrance gate approaches, the rooms below grand stands, and the grand stands themselves in one of the largest video security projects ever undertaken in a football stadium. Video security system Under enormous time pressure, a high-performance system had to be implemented in the stadium with a capacity of 60,000 fans and yet had to remain adaptable and flexible in response to changing customer wishes as the project progressed. One requirement which from time to time presented the greatest challenge was capturing all areas of all the grand stands all of the time, so that unequivocal identification of offenders could be assured in all circumstances. In order to achieve this, the Russian Interior Ministry stipulated two key requirements for the video security system: Firstly, it must capture the entire grand stand area with a "minimum resolution density" of 250 pixels per metre (px/m). This also corresponds to the performance criterion defined in the globally valid standard DIN EN 62676-4 for video security systems for purposes of enabling identification of an unknown person. Minimum resolution density A Dallmeier video security system has already been operating in the Petrovsky Stadium since 2012 And secondly, the image frequency must not fall below a frame rate of 25 frames per second (fps). Because it is typically only the combination of the specified minimum resolution density and a fluid representation of events that can ensure incontestable evidence that is usable in a court of law. In order to meet these stringent requirements, the security managers invited a number of vendors to present their solutions in advance at Zenit's former home ground - the Petrovsky Stadium - to enable them to choose the right solution for the Gazprom Arena. A Dallmeier video security system has already been operating in the Petrovsky Stadium since 2012, and after a thorough evaluation of all the solutions, the operators decided to install a stadium solution from Dallmeier in the Gazprom Arena as well. Multifocal-sensor system Because compared with conventional camera technologies such as megapixel or PTZ cameras for example, the patented Panomera multifocal-sensor system from Dallmeier can guarantee coverage of even the largest expanses with the stipulated minimum resolution density and frame rate. And Panomera systems continuously capture everything that is happening in full resolution and allow high-resolution zooms - both live and in the recording and by several operators at the same time. This enables stadium operators to track and reconstruct relevant occurrences in detail both live and after the fact. Besides the technical superiority of the Panomera technology, another decisive advantage of the Dallmeier stadium solution was the innovative 3D planning approach, with which a digital reproduction of the Gazprom Arena was created. Conventional single-sensor cameras This makes it very easy to fulfil the requirement according to which at least 250 px/m must be assured literally "in every last corner": colour coding in the 3D simulation makes it possible to see exactly where the value has been reached and where a correction should be made, perhaps by setting up in a another position or using a different camera model. An alternative solution would have required a substantial four-figure number of conventional single-sensor cameras A further major advantage of this planning approach is the extreme efficiency of the solution: For example, Zenit St. Petersburg is able to provide security on the terraces throughout the Gazprom Arena with way less than 100 Panomera camera systems, covering all areas with at least 250 px/m and 25 fps. An alternative solution would have required a substantial four-figure number of conventional single-sensor cameras. Minimises uncertainty factors Apart from enormously high infrastructure costs (masts, cables, etc.) this would also have generated a practically unmanageable deluge of images for the video system operators. Another benefit of Dallmeier's 3D planning programme is the automatic generation of "CamCards" - exact configuration documents for every single camera. Armed with this information, installers on site know exactly which camera must be mounted where, how high and at what angle. The big advantage besides the immense amount of time saved consists in the planning reliability: It can be predicted with great accuracy how much labour the installation of the total solution with entail, because this approach minimises uncertainty factors. Total storage capacity Thanks to Dallmeier's unwavering assistance throughout the project, testing by the state technical personnel in Russia was also successful in the subsequent project phases, with the result that the stadium operators were able to begin operating the video security system after final project commissioning in good time for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The total storage capacity for the video security system amounts to more than six petabytes Recently, over 1,000 single-sensor cameras have been installed in the Gazprom Arena in addition to the Panomera systems - these safeguard the remaining areas of the stadium. Due to the large number of cameras, the total storage capacity for the video security system amounts to more than six petabytes (equivalent to about 6,000 TB). High-performance recording appliances from Dallmeier are used to process this information. Largest stadium project Authorised personnel from various departments and stakeholders can access the system at 80 workstations. The video security system from Dallmeier has provided ample evidence of its performance capabilities and reliability in the running of the Gazprom Arena, not least during the seven matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. On this subject, Karlheinz Biersack, Director Sales Eastern Europe/RUS/GUS at Dallmeier explains: "Of course we were delighted that the security managers of Zenit St. Petersburg also decided to rely on Dallmeier again for their new home, the Gazprom Arena. This success in the largest stadium project we have ever undertaken shows once again that Dallmeier's holistic security and solution approach - above all the patented Panomera technology and our unrivalled project and consulting services represent an immense benefit for our customers."

ZeroEyes, the only AI-based platform focused solely on weapons detection, has been selected by the Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) of Wisconsin to help improve security on its campuses. ZeroEyes proprietary solution ZeroEyes’ proprietary solution will identify visible guns if present and send alerts to school administrators and security personnel within three to five seconds, helping to stop violent threats before they occur. KUSD is the third-largest school district in Wisconsin, with over 21,000 students and 4,200 employees in 23 elementary schools, five middle schools, five high schools and five charter schools. Integration with IP security cameras ZeroEyes currently integrates with KUSD’s IP security cameras to help detect visible weapons and serve as a proactive measure to prevent any violent threats on campus. When ZeroEyes positively detects a weapon, the platform sends a notification to school administrators, school resource officers and local 911 dispatch, ensuring the school can enact security protocols and give first responders real-time information to help prevent active shooting tragedies and save lives. Enhancing staff and students’ security “It’s a grim reality that active shootings happen in schools across the country, and we’ve needed to understand and implement the solutions that can keep our students, staff and visitors safe,” said Kevin Christoun, Maintenance, Environmental and Safety Manager at KUSD. Kevin adds, “At KUSD, we have a multi-layered security approach that includes the most effective and innovative technologies and resources, and ZeroEyes’ platform clearly supports our strategy.” Weapons detection solution ZeroEyes proprietary and comprehensive datasets focus exclusively on weapons detection Founded by a group of former Navy SEALs and military veterans, ZeroEyes proprietary and comprehensive datasets focus exclusively on weapons detection, to actively monitor and detect for visible weapons. ZeroEyes also trains and collaborates with customers and local first responders to conduct extensive pilots before its solution is fully implemented. In the future, KUSD plans to roll out additional installations to remaining schools in the district. Effectively countering active shooting incidents “ZeroEyes was founded upon the realisation that a proactive solution was needed to help keep people safe, with real-time information to adequately address violent threats and prevent mass shooting tragedies,” said Dustin Brooks, Vice President of Education at ZeroEyes. Dustin adds, “KUSD focuses on providing a safe and productive learning environment to its students and faculty, and we’re honoured to provide a 24/7 solution that supports their goals.”

An important heritage site which played a key role in protecting the UK during World War II is itself being made safe and secure with the installation of a comprehensive and fully integrated security system, including more than 75 Dahua HD CCTV cameras. Battle of Britain Bunker The Battle of Britain Bunker is an underground operations room in Uxbridge, formerly used by No. 11 Group Fighter Command during the Second World War, most notably in the Battle of Britain and on D-Day. The operations room was one of the key parts of the world’s first integrated defence system, which linked Fighter Command with Anti-Aircraft Command, Barrage Balloon Command, the Observer Corps, radar, and the intelligence services. The site is run by Hillingdon Council as a heritage attraction with a museum and a visitor centre. Fully integrated security solution DSSL Group installed more than 75 Dahua HD CCTV cameras linked to a Genetec Security Centre VMS DSSL Group completed a full analysis of the existing CCTV and intruder alarm systems, with the aim of creating a fully integrated security solution, to enhance the security around the site, reduce manned security costs, and speed up remote security and police response times. Using the existing wireless network also designed by them across the borough, DSSL Group installed more than 75 Dahua HD CCTV cameras linked to a Genetec Security Centre video management system (VMS), as well as Axis IP PA speakers externally. All cameras are viewable by management and the security team on site, and also from Hillingdon Council’s main CCTV control room. Surveillance cameras with smart analytics using AI External cameras are equipped with smart analytics using AI, to help secure the perimeter of the site. In 2018, a state-of-the-art wireless CCTV system consisting of more than 1,000 Dahua HD cameras, along with Dahua NVRs, XVRs and control and viewing equipment, was installed across the borough by DSSL Group. More recently, an additional 1,000 Dahua HD cameras have been added to the council's network making it 2,000 in total. In addition to the cameras, DSSL Group installed a Honeywell Galaxy 62-zone intruder alarm system which feeds back to a central monitoring station and is also integrated with the VMS. Dahua CCTV system installed Cllr Richard Lewis, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Cultural Services, Culture and Heritage, said “The Battle of Britain Bunker is one of Hillingdon’s treasured heritage sites. It played a pivotal role in the Second World War, and it’s important that we keep it protected. Dahua CCTV system will help us to do that with their state-of-the-art system and high performing cameras.”

Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analogue video surveillance solutions, has announced that Olymbec, globally renowned privately owned industrial real estate holder on the US East Coast and Canada, has chosen Hanwha cameras to help secure its properties and improve rentability. Managing upwards of 300 properties in Quebec, Canada and 15 different states in the US, Olymbec owns more than 30 million square feet of property. Managing this much real estate means that Olymbec has to balance a variety of concerns, including providing positive tenant experiences, generating revenue, and protecting assets. Countering growing cases of theft and vandalism Olymbec’s existing analog-based camera systems were not meeting the company’s needs When it comes to security, the company is faced with everything from accidental damage and theft to vandalism and refuse dumping both inside and outside their buildings. However, Olymbec’s existing analog-based camera systems were not meeting the company’s needs. After looking at a number of different options, the company chose Hanwha Techwin because of the range of products, the modularity of the solutions the excellent training and customer support, and the cost, which allows Olymbec to add components easily. Hanwha Techwin cameras deployed Olymbec has deployed over 700 operational cameras and carries stock for both replacement purposes and new systems. The deployed cameras are connected to either a Wisenet WAVE VMS system in their larger installations or to NVRs in their smaller installations. Through their VPN, everyone at Olymbec, from the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to security personnel and property managers, can access video footage from every security camera remotely from their smartphones and tablets. Remote video footage access This allows security administrators to view footage from anywhere, at any time and gives them the flexibility to react quickly and appropriately, when an incident occurs. Hanwha cameras have the capability to trigger alerts and alert security personnel, based on a variety of rules such as detecting motion after hours. Olymbec has spent approximately three-fourth of a million dollars on equipment from Hanwha Techwin to deploy its new security infrastructure. The result is a robust, homogenous environment that makes it easy to manage and add new camera systems to the company’s various properties. Multi-sensor, multi-directional cameras installed Hanwha Techwin cameras are used as deterrent or after-the-fact security devices for investigative purposes The Hanwha Techwin cameras are used as deterrent or after-the-fact security devices for investigative purposes. This means that Olymbec relies heavily on the quality of the video feed. To capture the best possible video, Olymbec decided to go with multi-sensor, multi-directional cameras, which are deployed across the company’s properties allowing them to cover a very wide area with just a single device. The multi-sensor cameras also work very well when the time comes to pull the video footage for investigation. This is especially helpful because Olymbec’s security department receives video requests from law enforcement at least 4-5 times a month. Reliable and flexible video security system “Using our new security system, we are able to ensure the integrity of our video evidence. This is important when local law enforcement asks us for footage to help with an investigation,” said Jack Ross, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Olymbec USA & Canada. The company, Olymbec has stated that they remain enthusiastic about their decision to install more number of Hanwha Techwin cameras across their various properties in the US and Canada. “It was important for us to choose a platform that is both complex enough to meet our needs and reliable enough to set up and simply let run. When it comes to reliability, as well as flexibility and ease-of-use, I think Hanwha Techwin really shines,” concludes Jack Ross.

Artificial intelligence is more than just the latest buzzword in the security marketplace. In some cases, smarter computer technologies like AI and machine learning (ML) are helping to transform how security operates. AI is also expanding the industry’s use cases, sometimes even beyond the historic province of the security realm. It turns out that AI is also a timely tool in the middle of a global pandemic. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is artificial intelligence (AI) changing the security market?

The new school year is a good time to reflect on the role of security in protecting our schools. From video to access control to some newer technologies, our Expert Panel Roundtable found plenty to talk about when we asked this week’s question: How does security technology make our schools safer?

Artificial intelligence is on the verge of changing the face of multiple industries – from healthcare to entertainment to finance, from data security to manufacturing to the cars we drive (or that will drive themselves!) In the physical security market, AI has garnered a lot of attention as a buzzword and as a harbinger of things to come. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What security markets are most likely to embrace artificial intelligence (AI)?