Surveillance systems

Synology Inc. has announced the availability of the SA3600 storage system, the latest device in the SA family of high-performance and versatile, petabyte-capable network attached storage servers. Built to tackle both existing and future data storage requirements, SA3600 provides businesses with access to faster and larger on-premises storage in a cost-effective package. "In response to the rising demand for on-premises data storage, we built the SA series to help businesses reach petabyte-scale storage," said Michael Wang, Product Manager at Synology Inc. "SA3600 provides massive storage and high performance to meet the ever-growing compute requirements and to facilitate IT transformation for large-scale businesses." Versatile architecture to accelerate workload Powered by an Intel Xeon 12-core processor, the SA3600 is scalable up to 180 drives. SA3600 provides petabyte-scale storage capacity, suitable for massive surveillance deployments, video post-production, and other business environments. Support of both 2.5" and 3.5" SAS/SATA drives increases flexibility and prevents vendor lock-in, minimising total cost of ownership (TCO). Performance: Over 5,500 MB/s sequential throughput and 176,000 4K random write IOPS1 Scalability: Up to 1,536 TB storage capacity with 7 expansion units2 10GbE built-in: 2 x 10GbE and 4 x 1GbE Ethernet ports PCIe 3.0 expansion: 2 x PCIe slots for additional network interface card support Virtualisation-ready: Certified for VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Citrix XenServer, and OpenStack Cinder Easy to deploy by IT departments and greatly simplifies operations with comprehensive tools designed for businesses to safeguard their data. Integrated data protection and availability VM, SaaS, and endpoint protection Centralised backup solution to protect VMware and Windows Server virtual machines, Windows endpoints, Office 365, and G Suite accounts. Manage all the backup tasks from one single console and restore data instantly with flexible recovery methods. Prevent data loss with snapshots and replication Synology Snapshot Manager integrates with VMware and Windows for application-consistent data protection. Snapshot Replication enables Shared Folder and LUN protection for all other workloads. Maximise availability Add in another SA3600 to combine two servers into a single high-availability cluster. The active/passive structure ensures smooth service transition between clustered servers in the event of hardware failure.

Johnson Controls introduces the exacqVision Facial Matching solution, an Artificial Intelligence enabled system that provides immediate notification of persons of interest who are returning to a retail business, venue, or other premise. Tyco will be displaying the solution at Booth 4142 at the NRF 2020 show in New York, January 12-14. Using highly accurate deep learning analytics, exacqVision Facial Matching serves as a “front door host,” with immediate recall of recognised visitors that arrive on site, such as a suspected shoplifter returning to the store, or to detect persons of interest entering a high-profile sporting event or a place of business. Deep learning capabilities “The power of exacqVision Facial Matching comes from its deep learning capabilities for accuracy as well as in its extensive integrations with exacqVision and other retail tools, such as electronic article surveillance and point of sale systems,” said Ryan Hulse, senior product manager for Exacq. “Leveraging these tools for a complete automated detection and notification system significantly lessens the burden on staff who have a whole host of other responsibilities to fulfil.” Tyco AI harmonises video and access control solutions, streamlining the management of a facility  The engine behind exacqVision Facial Matching is Tyco AI an ever-evolving, deep learning solution that will take analytic capabilities such as object classification, behaviour and facial recognition to the next level, using powerful algorithms that customise solutions to specific end user installations. To further automate this approach, Tyco AI harmonises video and access control solutions, streamlining the management of a facility through a surveillance infrastructure rather than by disparate systems or operator intervention. Electronic Article Surveillance In a retail setting, exacqVision Facial Matching continuously compares faces against saved profiles, even with hats, glasses and facial hair, providing instant confirmation of the presence of persons of interest with color-coded facial bounding boxes. Integrated directly into exacqVision for easy configuration and deployment, the solution can capture and automatically enter into the database acceptable facial views triggered by Electronic Article Surveillance pedestals or Point of Sale keywords, growing the database of faces with minimal user interaction. Users can also be added manually into the system. Once a profile has been created and that individual returns to the business, users can receive a push notification through the Exacq Mobile app with the date, time, and image of the person of interest. Personnel will then be able to take appropriate action based on the event. The exacqVision Facial Matching also provides businesses of other types the ability to reference visitors against a known database of terminated employees or other persons of interest, whether they are returning to the same location or to another facility. For example, if a recently terminated employee returned to the workplace within a certain amount of time, Exacq Facial Matching will provide instant notification.

Ambarella, Inc., an AI vision silicon company, announced the CV22FS and CV2FS automotive camera system on chips (SoCs) with CVflow AI processing and ASIL B compliance to enable safety-critical applications. Both chips target forward-facing monocular and stereovision ADAS cameras, as well as computer vision ECUs for L2+ and higher levels of autonomy. Featuring extremely low power consumption, the CV22FS and CV2FS make it possible for tier-1s and OEMs to surpass New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) performance requirements within the power consumption constraints of single-box, windshield-mounted forward ADAS cameras. Other potential applications for the processors include electronic mirrors with blind spot detection (BSD), interior driver and cabin monitoring cameras, and around view monitors (AVM) with parking assist. Intelligent viewing platforms ZF is pleased to be working with Ambarella on the intelligent viewing platforms for Surround View Visualisation" The two new SoCs are the latest additions to Ambarella’s successful CVflow SoC family that offers automotive OEMs, tier-1s, and software development partners an open platform for differentiated, high-performance automotive systems. ZF, a global technology tier-1 and supplier of systems for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, is working with Ambarella on viewing and sensing systems: “ZF is pleased to be working with Ambarella on the next generation of intelligent viewing platforms for Surround View Visualisation, Driver Monitoring stand-alone vision processing, and e-mirror solutions for both the passcar and commercial vehicle markets,” said Aaron Jefferson, vice president of ADAS product planning at ZF. “The CVflow SoCs’ combination of high quality imaging and advanced AI processing enables ZF to offer a wide range of viewing and interior sensing applications.” Visual perception software HELLA Aglaia, a global developer of intelligent visual perception software, has worked with Ambarella’s CVflow processors over the past year: “We chose Ambarella’s CVflow SoCs due to their ability to deliver extremely high computer vision processing performance with very low power consumption,” said Kay Talmi, managing director at HELLA Aglaia. “With the introduction of the CV22FS and CV2FS ASIL SoCs, Ambarella now delivers the functional safety features required by automotive OEMs for the mass production of safety-critical systems.” “Ambarella’s CVFlow architecture delivers an unparalleled combination of AI performance and power efficiency,” said Fermi Wang, president and CEO of Ambarella. “We are pleased to introduce these ASIL compliant CVflow SoCs, delivering on our promises to our partners and customers and further demonstrating our commitment to the automotive market.” Advanced stereovision applications Ambarella will also demonstrate a range of applications from other key partners running on the CVflow engine The CV22FS and CV2FS’s CVflow architecture provides computer vision processing in 8-megapixel or higher resolution at 30 frames per second for object recognition over long distances and with high accuracy. The SoCs each include a dense optical flow accelerator for simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM), as well as distance and depth estimation. Multi-channel high-speed sensor input and Ambarella’s image signal processing (ISP) pipeline provide the necessary camera input support, even in challenging lighting conditions. CV2FS also enables advanced stereovision applications by adding a dense disparity engine. Ambarella will demonstrate its CVflow SoC family during CES 2020 to select customers and partners. Demonstrations will include HELLA Aglaia’s deep learning ADAS algorithms and Ambarella’s EVA (Embedded Vehicle Autonomy) self-driving prototype vehicle. Ambarella will also demonstrate a range of applications from other key partners running on the CVflow engine. CV22FS and CV2FS are scheduled to sample to Ambarella customers in the first half of 2020. Wireless video streaming CV22FS and CV2FS SoC key features: CVflow architecture with DNN support Quad-core 1-GHz Arm Cortex-A53 with NEON DSP extensions and FPU Safety island with dual-core lock step (DCLS) Arm R52 targeting ASIL-C Dense optical flow engine Dense stereo disparity engine (CV2FS only) ASIL B functional safety level - High speed SLVS/MIPI CSI-2/LVCMOS interfaces Multi-channel ISP with up to 480-Megapixel/s input pixel rate Native support for RGGB, RCCB, RCCC, RGB-IR, and monochrome sensor formats Multi-exposure high dynamic range (HDR) processing and LED flicker mitigation Real-time hardware-accelerated fish-eye dewarping and lens distortion correction (LDC) 4-megapixel AVC encoding for video logging and wireless video streaming Rich set of interfaces includes CAN FD, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0 host and device, dual SD card controllers with SDXC support, MIPI DSI/CSI-2 4-lane output Advanced security features, including OTP for secure boot, TrustZone, and IO virtualisation AEC-Q100 grade 2 (-40C to +125C (TJ) operating temperature) 10 nm process technology

abode systems, a provider of DIY smart home security, announced that abode Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera, a versatile video camera developed in direct response to demand for robust indoor/outdoor and front door video protection. Modular by design, the new abode camera can be used indoors and outdoors and can be deployed using a number of included mounts to optimise installation flexibility and provide intelligent video coverage wherever customers need it most. Standalone video camera solution A first for abode, the Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera can be used as a reliable standalone video camera solution or seamlessly integrated with all existing abode security systems. In either case, the camera provides valuable insight into what is happening inside and/or outside the home and has been designed to help deter crime including porch piracy, effectively communicate with couriers and other visitors, and provide a medium for visual verification when allowing or denying access to a home or residence. The camera provides insight into what is happening inside or outside the home and is designed to help deter crime With advanced computer vision capabilities built-in, abode customers can opt-in to have their Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera understand when an authorised user is approaching or inside the residence vs. an unauthorised user, stranger, or intruder. This functionality is at the sole discretion of the user and can be toggled on or off at any time to manage a personalised database of known and unknown users. Advanced automation engine When integrated with an abode system, users can leverage CUE, abode’s advanced automation engine, to define and trigger smart home and security scenes using information provided by the abode Smart Outdoor/Indoor Camera including the advanced computer vision capabilities. Engineered into a compact package roughly half the size of a deck of playing cards, the new video camera features a PIR motion sensor to identify when someone is approaching, an IR LED for low-light vision, a built-in microphone and speaker for two-way communication, a light sensor, and a wide-angle lens capable of providing 1920 x 1080p video across a 152° field of view. To withstand the elements, the abode Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera features an IP65 weather-resistance rating and can withstand a wide variation of outdoor temperatures. Traditional doorbell solution abode’s newest video solution can be installed in a variety of ways, giving consumers the freedom and flexibility to ensure they have robust video coverage of their home wherever they desire. The included doorbell mount allows the camera to be powered by existing doorbell leads and installed flush against the door or, a corded attachment can be used to mount the camera outdoors and be powered by a standard outlet. Indoor/outdoor camera fills the gap within the portfolio of robust smart home security offerings" The abode Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera can be installed in either fashion and, abode will be releasing an additional form factor with a doorbell button built-in to provide users the option of a traditional doorbell solution. “Doorbell and external video cameras have become quintessential to surveilling and protecting the exterior of your home but they should not require a security expert to setup,” said Chris Carney, CEO and founder of abode. Live video stream “Our new indoor/outdoor camera is the final piece of the abode puzzle and fills the gap within our portfolio of robust smart home security offerings. We’ve always strived to put the power back into the hands of the user when it comes to monitoring and managing their home security needs and with these new solutions, which can be used on their own or integrated into our existing security systems for enhanced functionality, users have even more choice when it comes to creating a secure home on their terms.” To provide users with increased functionality, the abode Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera has been submitted for Apple HomeKit Certification and will also feature Alexa Video support to view a live video stream from an Echo Show device and Google Video support. The abode Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera will be available starting in Q1 2020 with an expected MSRP of $199. Additional video services abode video plans including event look back and additional video services will be available at launch. Shown for the first time at CES 2020, abode will demo capabilities of the new camera at Pepcom Digital Experience on January 6, 2020 and showcase the Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera in booth #40724 during CES 2020 in the Sands. 

Quantum Corp. announces that Rebecca Jacoby has joined the company’s Board of Directors. She will serve on the Board’s Audit Committee and Leadership and Compensation Committee. Jacoby joins Quantum’s board as the company expands its product portfolio in the high-speed processing and management of video and video-like data, and the long-term, low-cost archive of unstructured data. The addition of Jacoby to the board underscores Quantum’s drive for operational excellence. Operational excellence and technology leadership “With the company now restored to responsible and accountable governance, and with continued significant shareholder representation on the Board, Quantum is turning its focus to growth,” said Jamie Lerner, President and CEO of Quantum. Rebecca brings greater diversity to our Board, and a technical depth that will be valued" “With experience as both CIO and Senior Vice President of Operations at Cisco, a highly respected business leader, Rebecca offers a track record of operational excellence and technology leadership that will be a real asset to Quantum’s Board. Rebecca brings greater diversity to our Board, and a technical depth that will be valued.” Jacoby served as senior vice president of Operations at Cisco Systems Inc., a pioneer in IT networking, which was recently ranked fifth best-managed company worldwide in 2019 by The Wall Street Journal. Focusing on innovation and profitable sales Jacoby held the position of CIO for 8 years and retired from Cisco in 2018 after more than 22 years of service. As SVP of Operations, she led Cisco's global operations, driving profitable growth. She also oversaw various functions including IT, supply chain, security and trust, global procurement and employee services and workplace resources. Known for her demonstrated understanding of how to drive operational excellence, innovative problem solving and talent development, Ms. Jacoby was inducted into the CIO Hall of Fame by CIO magazine and was recognised by Forbes as a ‘Superstar CIO’ in 2012. “With the restatement completed and new governance practices now in place, and with a sharper focus on innovation and profitable sales, Quantum has been on a roll with a brisk pace of new product development,” said Rebecca Jacoby. “This is a particularly exciting time to join Quantum’s Board, and I look forward to applying my experience to help Quantum grow and realise its true potential.”

UK CCTV camera manufacturer, 360 Vision Technology, announce that its Predator ‘all-in-one’ PTZ range is now an accredited Vision HS camera solution, certified to have completed the CAPSS approval process by the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI). Ensuring cyber security measures are capable of protecting against the very real threats faced by surveillance system operators, 360 Vision Technology’s team of software developers is constantly working to ensure that these threats can be averted. Video management software “There has been a lot of negative press relating to the potential vulnerabilities integrators may accidentally introduce into their customers’ surveillance systems,” says Adrian Kirk, Strategic Account Director at 360 Vision Technology. “With concerns over the ease at which some edge devices can be used as an access gateway by cyber criminals, we’re taking cyber security seriously and helping integrators to mitigate that risk by specifying Predator UK manufactured cameras and Vision HS video management software." “Action to remove these threats is unlikely to happen fast as the UK market is still flooded by potentially unsafe Far East CCTV cameras that are being sold at bargain basement prices, which make them commercially attractive to some purchasers. The problem is further compounded by installation companies who may have limited expertise when it comes to providing tight network security.” Security and corporate confidentiality 360 Vision cyber security protection ensures surveillance capability is not compromised" "For example, steps should be taken to prevent the edge device’s set-up browser being accessed - enabling a hacker to disable or change critical camera settings, or worse, access the wider corporate network. However, supporting peace of mind for any integrator or end-user, when a 360 Vision Technology Predator camera is deployed at the edge, it cannot be used to enable unauthorised access to a security or corporate network.” Despite the increased emphasis on cyber security, and more and more sophisticated cyber-attacks taking place, many leading camera manufacturers still supply easy to get to, direct access points (typically via an RJ45 port), located within a camera’s power supply – but removing this risk is essential to ensure security and corporate confidentiality is not compromised. Cyber security protection “360 Vision cyber security protection ensures surveillance capability is not compromised, by removing the risks associated with insecure camera access,” Adrian concludes. “To provide additional protection for our customers, we are proud to announce that the ‘Predator HS’ product range is now an accredited camera solution to work with Vision HS - certified to achieve CAPSS approval by the CPNI.”

Artificial intelligence (AI) is improving everyday solutions, driving efficiency in ways we never imagined possible. From self-driving cars to intelligent analytics, the far-reaching impacts of Deep Learning-based technology empower human operators to achieve results more effectively while investing fewer resources and less time. By introducing AI, solutions are not merely powered by data, but they also generate valuable intelligence. Systems which were once leveraged for a narrow, dedicated purpose, can suddenly be engaged broadly across an organisation, because the previously under-utilised data can be harnessed for enhancing productivity and performance. Video analytics software The video intelligence software processes and analyses video to detect all the people and objects that appear When it comes to physical security, for instance, video surveillance is a standard solution. Yet, by introducing AI-driven video analytics software, video data can be leveraged as intelligence in previously inaccessible ways. Here are some examples of how diverse organisations are using AI-based video intelligence solutions to enhance security and performance with searchable, actionable and quantifiable insights. Law enforcement relies on video surveillance infrastructure for extracting investigation evidence and monitoring people and spaces. Instead of manual video review and live surveillance – which is prone to human error and distraction – police can harness video content analysis to accelerate video investigations, enhance situational awareness, streamline real-time response, identify suspicious individuals and recognise patterns and anomalies in video. The video intelligence software processes and analyses video to detect all the people and objects that appear; identify, extract and classify them; and then index them as metadata that can be searched and referenced. Maintaining public safety For law enforcement, the ability to dynamically search video based on granular criteria is critical for filtering out irrelevant details and pinpointing objects of interest, such as suspicious persons or vehicles. Beyond accelerating video evidence review and extraction, police can leverage video analysis to configure sophisticated real-time alerts when people, vehicles or behaviours of interest are detected in video. Instead of actively monitoring video feeds, law enforcement can assess triggered alerts and decide how to respond. In this way, officers can also react faster to emergencies, threats and suspicious activity as it develops. Video analysis empowers cities to harness their video surveillance data as operational intelligence Empowering law enforcement to maintain public safety is important beyond the benefit of increasing security: A city with a reputation for effective, reliable law enforcement and enhanced safety is more likely to attract residents, visitors and new businesses, exponentially driving its economic development. Furthermore, in cities where law enforcement can work productively and quickly, time and human resources can be reallocated to fostering growth and building community. Video surveillance data Video analysis empowers cities to harness their video surveillance data as operational intelligence for optimising city management and infrastructure. When video data is aggregated over time, it can be visualised into dashboards, heatmaps and reports, so operators can identify patterns and more seamlessly detect anomalous behaviour. A city could, for instance, analyse the most accident-prone local intersection and assess the traffic patterns to reveal details such as where cars are dwelling and pedestrians are walking; the directional flows of traffic; and the demographic segmentations of the objects detected: Are cars lingering in no-parking zones? Are pedestrians using designated crosswalks – is there a more logical location for the crosswalk or traffic light? Do vehicles tend to make illegal turns – should police proactively deter this behaviour, or should the city plan new infrastructure that enables vehicles to safely perform these turns? Finally, does the rise in bike traffic warrant implementing dedicated biking lanes? With video intelligence, urban planners can answer these and other questions to facilitate local improvements and high quality of life. By leveraging the video insights about citywide traffic, public transit organisations can make data-driven decisions about scheduling and services Enhancing situational awareness Insight into traffic trends is also critical for transport companies, from public transit services to transportation hubs and airports. By leveraging the video insights about citywide traffic, public transit organisations can make data-driven decisions about scheduling and services. Analysing video surveillance around bus stops, for instance, can help these companies understand the specific hours per day people tend to dwell around bus stops. Correlating this information with transactional data for each bus line, bus schedules can be optimised based on demand for individual bus lines, shortening waiting times for the most popular routes. Similarly, the traffic visualisations and activity heatmaps derived from the video of major transit hubs, such as international airports and central stations, can be beneficial for increasing security, enhancing situational awareness, identifying causes of congestion, improving throughput and efficiency and, ultimately, solving these inefficiencies to provide a streamlined customer experience for travellers. Large education campuses Campus law enforcement can leverage video data to increase situational awareness and public safety Much like a city, large education campuses have internal transportation services, residential facilities, businesses and law enforcement, and video content analysis can support the campus in intelligently managing each of those business units, while also providing video intelligence to these individual groups. Campus law enforcement can leverage video data to increase situational awareness and public safety, driving real-time responses with the ability to make informed assessments and accelerating post-event investigations with access to easily extractable video data. When campuses are expanding or developing additional infrastructure, they can plan new crosswalks, traffic lights, roads, buildings and entrances and exits based on comprehensive video intelligence. By understanding where pedestrians and vehicles dwell, walk, cross or even violate traffic laws, the campus can inform construction projects and traffic optimisation. Countless business operations The campus can leverage video business intelligence to justify leasing pricing for different retailers across campus Finally, the campus can leverage video business intelligence to justify leasing pricing for different retailers across campus, demonstrating property values based on traffic trends that can be correlated with retailer point of sale data. Whether its empowering security, productivity or decision-making, the insights generated by AI-based technology can drive significant optimisation – especially when data is fused and cross-referenced across smart sensors and systems for even deeper intelligence. In the case of AI-backed video analytics, diverse organisations can harness video surveillance impactfully and dynamically. Whereas once video technology investments could be justified for their security value – with the introduction of AI capabilities – procurement teams can evaluate these solutions for countless business operations, because they offer broadly valuable intelligence. And video surveillance and analytics is merely one example of AI-driven solutions’ potential to disrupt business as we know it.

Artificial intelligence allows machines to do jobs previously done by people. When it comes to security and surveillance, this technology allows cameras and control room equipment to identify a wide range of threats automatically and in real time across hundreds or even thousands of cameras – allowing security teams to take immediate action to protect people and assets. AI technology and surveillance solutions Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions help organisations optimise their security Video surveillance cameras are the electronic eyes of any security operation. In the past, human supervision was needed to make sense of the images captured, and to assess whether certain events posed a security risk or not. With some organisations using hundreds or even thousands of cameras to protect their people and assets, manual review of footage is simply impossible – potentially leaving them vulnerable to security breaches. Advanced Artificial Intelligence technology built into surveillance solutions can help organisations overcome this challenge and optimise their security. This means cameras, control-room equipment and back-end infrastructure can now ‘learn’ about potential threats for themselves by recognising people, vehicles and even behaviours. Detection and prevention The manual interventions needed with traditional security systems mean that teams were frequently reacting to breaches that had already happened. Artificial Intelligence changes all this by recognising potential threats before they impact company’s people or assets – allowing security teams to react immediately to neutralise any potential threat. Artificial intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area For example, artificial Intelligence solutions can automatically trigger alerts when a person appears in a restricted area, or when a vehicle with a blacklisted number plate enters a site. With alerts delivered in real time, teams can identify and react to security threats and protect people and assets more effectively. And because alerts are automated, potential threats are hardly missed or overlooked. How does artificial intelligence work? Artificial Intelligence systems become more intelligent over time, building databases of potential threats and reacting to new events accordingly. This allows systems to ‘think for themselves’ and to alert teams of any suspicious events or people who are caught on camera. Artificial intelligence technologies use advanced algorithms based on Deep Learning to distinguish between different kinds of security events and threats. Technologies incorporated into the Hikvision portfolio include: Facial recognition which allows law enforcement personnel to identify suspects and commercial teams to identify VIP customers in real time. Vehicle identification which can be used to identify vehicle number plates and recognise different types of vehicles (even down to make and model), or to trigger alerts when vehicles enter restricted areas. Perimeter protection which helps organisations to identify real threats by distinguishing people and vehicles from other moving objects and keeping false alarms to a minimum. Business intelligence which employs people counting, queue detection, and heat mapping technologies, so that organisations can enhance operational efficiency by making use of the data report. Increasing commercial success  Artificial intelligence isn’t just useful for identifying security threats – although this is a key strength of the technology. It can also help organisations increase their competitiveness and commercial success. For example, VIP customers who opt to participate in special marketing promotions or other incentives can be identified so staff can provide the right kind of service at the right time. This gives organisations the opportunity to personalise the service experience, foster loyalty and maximise customer lifetime revenues. Artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively In the same way, artificial Intelligence can help organisations to better understand customers and meet their needs more effectively – leading to more commercial opportunities. One feature – called People Counting – allows stores and commercial centres to map footfall at peak times, ensuring that staffing is optimised to meet demand. At the same time, stores can see which areas of the building customers visit most and adjust their merchandising and product positioning accordingly to maximise the sales opportunities. Artificial intelligence at Hikvision Hikvision’s family of artificial intelligence products include the DeepinView network cameras and DeepinMind NVRs. The products help to tackle security with facial recognition; monitoring and counting of people; and recognition and detection of vehicles, to name a few. These features all depend on artificial intelligence technology to recognise, classify and respond to security threats. This article was written by Hikvision.

Across the country, law enforcement officers are finding it increasingly difficult to respond to the near overwhelming number of calls coming from security alarms. Police departments commonly define a false alarm as a call, which upon investigation, shows no evidence of criminal activity, such as broken windows, forced doors, items missing, or people injured. While false alarms bog down police, they can also negatively impact customers and integrators. End users can expect hefty fines for false alarm responses, and when these customers receive large bills from the city, many turn to installers, dealers, and even manufacturers expecting them to accept the responsibility and pay the bill. What first brought the issue of alarm verification to your attention? It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight I’ve been aware of the problem of false alarms for about 5 years. I believed audio capture, through microphone deployment, could be an active part of the solution when used as a second source for indicating ‘out of the norm’ activity and as an equal component with the video surveillance technology. In 2015, I found similarly minded security professionals when introduced to the Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response. After reading PPVAR’s paper on ‘Audio Verified Alarms Best Practices; [April 2015],’ I knew that the Partnership was on to something important. In our lives, two of the five senses we count on day-in and day-out are sight and sound. It is crucial to both see a situation and concurrently listen to any corresponding sounds to gain full insight. What is the false alarm rate? In 2016, the International Association of Chiefs of Police reported that over 98 percent of all alarm calls in the United States were false. This number is obviously staggering, and something we need to work towards correcting. Why did this issue resonate so strongly with you? When I first investigated this issue, I was sure that the security industry would have already recognised this and was acting to ensure improved alarm verification, preferably through a combination of audio and video technologies. However, I quickly saw that this was not the case, or even close to the norm. I have questioned the rationale behind the lack of adoption and found the deployment of audio is often hindered by the concern of privacy. I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio As CEO of Louroe Electronics, I’ve spearheaded many initiatives to explain the monitoring policies surrounding audio. I’ve had to reassure many security personnel and customers how the law supports the use of audio in public places as long as there is no expectation of privacy. By dispelling fears with facts around deploying and implementing audio sensors, customers can confidently include audio in their surveillance systems and gain a more effective security solution. Who is affected by this? Truth be told, everyone from the end user to the manufacturer is affected by this issue. Not to mention the strain this puts on law enforcement who are tired of ‘wasting time’ and effort out in the field on these nuisance alerts. When an end user receives a bill for their false alarm, many of them will immediately blame the integrator and or the monitoring center for a faulty set up and management and expect the integrator to remedy the situation, including carry the burden of paying the fines. The integrator, on the other hand, will turn to the manufacturer, assuming faulty equipment and installation instructions; therefore, looking for reimbursement for the cost. What is the average false alarm fee? It depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for responseIt depends on many factors, and especially your first responder assigned location for response. According to the Urban Institute, fees generally range from $25-$100 for the first offense, rising as high as a few thousand dollars per false alarm if a location has a large number in a single year. What’s worse, in extreme cases, alarm systems may even be blacklisted by the police dispatch center if they have raised too many false alarms in the past. Why do you believe audio is the ideal technology for secondary source verification? Video surveillance has been the main option for security monitoring and alarm validation for decades, however industry professionals are realising that video alone is not enough. Video only tells half of the story, by adding audio capture, the responsible party gains a turnkey solution with the ability to gather additional evidence to verify alerts and expand overall awareness. In reality, audio’s range is greater than the field of view for a camera. Sound pickup is 360 degrees, capturing voices, gunshots, breaking glass, sirens, or other important details that a fixed camera many not see. How would a secondary source verification system work with audio? Using a video monitoring solution equipped with audio, the microphone will pick up the sounds at the time a visual alert or alarm is triggered. If embedded with classification analytics, the microphone will send alerts for specific detected sounds. The captured audio, and any notifications are immediately sent to the monitoring station, where trained personnel can listen to the sound clip, along with live audio and video from their station. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response From here, an informed decision can then be made about the validity of the alarm, along with what the current threat is at the location. If the alarm is in fact valid, the information is then passed along to the law enforcement within minutes. When law enforcement receives a validated alarm, they can better prioritise the response. It also provides more information in a forensic evaluation. Are there any additional resources you would suggest looking into? Yes, we would suggest looking into the following to see a few different perspectives on the matter: NSA Support For 2018 Model Ordinance For Alarm Management and False Alarm Reduction Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response Support for the Term “Verified Alarm” and Prioritising Verified Alarm Responses Urban Institute Opportunities for Police Cost Savings without Sacrificing Service Quality: Reducing False Alarms

Most customers interface with their financial institutions using automated teller machines (ATMs), which have security issues. However, there are solutions available to combat all current security threats, and the cost of protection is coming down. The ATM industry is therefore in a position to minimise losses, while ensuring consumers continue to get the vital cash they need to lead their daily lives. It is important for the ATM industry to constantly innovate to meet new security challenges. So what innovations are we going to see in the next five years? Contactless technology Contactless technology will be a great help against ATM skimming, in which criminals steal personal information at ATM machines. Contactless is already being used in some European countries, and the number is increasing. Not having to insert a card into the ATM removes the opportunity to trap cards and also gets around the problem of “foreign” devices installed to read cards. So contactless technology, which some saw as the end of cash, can help make ATMs and cash more secure. Data capture form to appear here! Not having to insert a card into the ATM removes the opportunity to trap cards Biometrics are certain to be used increasingly to bolster ATM security. Finger, palm, vein, iris and facial recognition all have potential in this respect. Any of these may in the future be used with or without cards, PINs and one-time codes. Speed of operation in relation to biometrics could ultimately govern their use at ATMs. There may also be privacy issues that need to be addressed. The ATM vestibule environment must add security with proper security and surveillance equipment. ATM vestibules, or lobbies, are installed for many good reasons. For one, more convenient, 24/7 locations equals better customer retention for a bank, offering comfort and convenience. 24/7 access to ATMs, night drops, coin counters, online banking kiosks, and other self-service solutions are very much in demand. Second, ATM vestibules protect customers from inclement weather and provide a more comfortable banking environment (however, vagrancy can be an issue; therefore ATM vestibules should require card access). Security and surveillance solutions can’t just be for show. ATMs and crime A new crime wave is hitting automated teller machines (ATMs); the common banking appliances are being rigged to spit out their entire cash supplies into a criminal’s waiting hands. The common banking appliances are being rigged to spit out their entire cash supplies into a criminal’s waiting hands The crime is called “ATM jackpotting” and has targeted banking machines located in grocery shops, pharmacies and other locations in Taiwan, Europe, Latin America and the United States. Rough estimates place the total amount of global losses at up to $60 million. The protection of ATMs ATMs in supermarkets and pharmacies tend to be targeted because they may not be as well-protected, and store personnel likely would not know who is authorised to work on the ATM. In contrast, anyone approaching an ATM at a bank location would be more likely to be challenged. ATM jackpotting originated back in 2010 when Barnaby Jack, a New Zealand hacker and computer expert, demonstrated how he could exploit two ATMs and make them dispense cash on the stage at the Black Hat computer security conference in Las Vegas. Since then, malware has been created and made available on the “Dark Web” that can instruct an ATM to dispense all its cash on demand. ATM jackpotting ATM jackpotting is a combination of a physical crime and a cyberattack ATM jackpotting is a combination of a physical crime and a cyberattack. Typically, a criminal with a fake ID enters a grocery shop or pharmacy posing as an ATM technician, then uses a crowbar to open the top of the ATM – the “top hat” – to gain access to the personal computer that operates the machine. Once he or she has access to the PC, they remove the hard drive, disable any anti-virus software, install a malware program, replace the hard drive and then reboot the computer. The whole operation takes about 30 seconds. The malware then enables the thief to remotely control the ATM and direct it to dispense all its cash on command. If a legitimate customer approaches the machine in the meantime, it can operate as usual until activated otherwise by the malware. Catch up on part one and part two of our banking security mini series.

A video analytics system that provides ‘behavioural understanding’ can yield more meaningful and actionable data for a range of applications. In public safety and security, such a system can alert on violent or suspicious behaviours, such as people fighting, vandalism, people with weapons, etc. In advanced traffic surveillance and monitoring, it can provide alerts to vehicle collisions (accidents), traffic hazards or vehicle that aren’t using the road properly, such as a car that stops in the middle of the junction. For enterprise and campus security, it can provide advanced anti-tailgating and detect unauthorised activity. Video surveillance infrastructure viisights was founded by a group of entrepreneurs with track records in developing technology businesses These uses are among the benefits of viisights’ video analytics technology based on behavioural understanding of video content. “It means we can extract more meaningful data from the huge amount of video content that is captured, and we can transform that data to actionable insights that eventually justify the massive investment in video surveillance infrastructure,” says Asaf Birenzvieg, CEO of viisights. Their behavioural understanding systems for real-time video intelligence leverage artificial intelligence technology. viisights was founded by a group of serial entrepreneurs with track records in developing technology businesses. The Israeli company’s founders recognised a growing global need for intelligence to make physical and virtual public areas safer – and realised the role that smart video understanding technology can play. Developing artificial intelligence technologies viisights is committed to developing artificial intelligence technologies that facilitate human-like video understanding, which in turn serves as the basis for fully autonomous video intelligence systems powered by pattern prediction technology. “Behavioural recognition is the future of video analytics and the next generation of the object classification analytics systems that hold the majority of the market today,” says Birenzvieg. viisights has developed a video understanding technology for real-time video processing “To date most video analytics systems still base their product features on static analysis of objects from images using image recognition, even the ones that use ‘AI analytics.’ Products built using such object classification technology are extremely limited.” For example, object classification analytics cannot recognise behavioural events in a video such as people fighting or a car collision because such behaviours can’t accurately be concluded in large scale from analysing a single static image/frame. Video understanding technology viisights has developed a video understanding technology for real-time video processing. The technology can process live video feeds. In addition to recognising a particular object (e.g., person) and its attributes (e.g., red shirt), the system can understand an object’s actions, interactions with other objects (events), the scene being viewed (i.e., crowd is gathering, riots) and the context (a car is driving on the road or on the sidewalk). The main verticals are smart cities, enterprises and campuses, banks and ATM security “Basically, we are able to extract more meaningful data from a live video feed and therefore create actionable insights and greater ROI,” says Birenzvieg. The company focuses mostly on security and safety use-cases. The main verticals are smart cities, enterprises and campuses, banks and ATM security, security guard companies and transportation hubs. The company is working on a new product for in-vehicle monitoring mostly for security, safety, vehicle protection and proper vehicle use; it monitors passengers’ behaviour inside a bus, train, or taxi. The product will come to market next year. Video management system viisights’ video analytics offering is currently optimised for server-side deployment, and the integration architecture is similar to most video analytics systems. From one side it is integrated with the video management system (VMS). They are a Milestone verified partner and soon will be part of Milestone's marketplace. From the other end, it is connected to a command-and-control system for processing the data and presenting the alerts to the end-user. The analytics company makes most sales through system integrators. They have partnerships with big system integrators like Motorola Solutions and NEC and are also working with smaller ones. They are looking to expand their system integrator network, mostly in the USA and Europe. Behaviours can have many variations and they can be very diverse Cloud video surveillance “We will continue to invest in performance and accuracy, meaning higher recall and lower false positive rate,” says Birenzvieg. “Since our major value proposition is in behaviour recognition, behaviour events many times are not clearly defined, which is very different from object classification. Behaviours can have many variations and they can be very diverse.” An example is a simple behaviour like a person falling on the floor. A person can fall on the floor in many ways, but the challenge is to ignore similar behaviours that are not a person falling and that confuse the system, such as a person bending over to tie his shoelaces. With cloud video surveillance becoming a trend, viisights is also looking into offering some of their advanced functionalities in a video-analytics-as-a-service-model.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, present a range of threats, from the careless and clueless to the criminal. While many incidents may seem harmless, the threat to any location at any time depends on a range of factors. Drones are inexpensive for criminals to buy or make, and there are continuously improving battery, airspeed, and payload capabilities. UAVs can also fly without an RF signal to jam or hack. Fortunately, sensor technologies including radar are available for security agencies and personnel to protect assets and the public. Radio-wave signals  Radar works as a deterrent by sending out a radio-wave signal using a transmitter antenna, and a small portion of that signal reflects off objects in its path and returns to a receiver antenna. The highest performing radars use an antenna technology called Active Electronically Scanning Array (AESA), which enables all-electronic reconfiguration of the antennas. When an AESA radar detects an object, it can ‘focus’ its antennas to track the object, in much the same way as the zoom on a camera does. Multiple objects can be tracked while continuing to scan. Kirkland, Washington-based Echodyne offers a radar product that brings these ESA capabilities to non-military security applications at commercial price points. Combining proprietary hardware with intelligent software, Echodyne produces a compact, solid-state, electronically scanning array Echodyne’s ESA radar Echodyne says they are reinventing radar price-performance for security applications in the ground (people, vehicles) or air (counter-UAS) domains. Combining proprietary hardware with intelligent software, Echodyne produces a compact, solid-state, electronically scanning array (ESA) radar that is affordable for commercial, law enforcement, and governmental customers. The company is backed by high profile investors, including Bill Gates, Madrona Venture Group, Vulcan Capital, NEA, and Lux Capital. “Radar is a sensor,” says Leo McCloskey, Echodyne VP Marketing. “It is most applicable when security professionals can both understand its capabilities and define risk assessment and deployment requirements that call for those capabilities. Our customers are primarily security system integrators and consultancies, which integrate the performance of radar into a sensor array that meets mission requirements.” Radar technology for border surveillance Echodyne was selected by the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for its Silicon Valley Innovation Program (SVIP) to demonstrate the performance of its radar technology for border surveillance applications. The radar was deployed both in fixed remote surveillance towers and as a lightweight rapid deployment kit for field agents. Able to surveil ground and air domains, the radar combines versatility and commercial price with surveillance capabilities. “We set out to build the world’s best compact, solid-state ESA radar sensor, and we are demonstrating that we’ve reached that objective,” says McCloskey. “We’re excited to introduce these capabilities for other security applications.” Able to surveil ground and air domains, the radar combines versatility and commercial price with surveillance capabilities MESA technology Echodyne’s proprietary technology provides a small true electronically scanning array (ESA) radar. Unlike expensive Active ESA (AESA) phased array radars, MESA requires no physical phase shifters, thus reducing the cost, size, weight, and power by several orders of magnitude while maintaining all the benefits of fast ESA radar. Echodyne combines its MESA technology with an intelligent software suite, Acuity, to produce a configurable, software-defined radar for commercial, law enforcement, and governmental security applications. The capability is also useful for temporary events such as rallies and marathons, and many other market applications “Technology seems to make everything more available to more people over time,” says McCloskey. “What is a retail product today will be a purchased self-assembly kit tomorrow and an improvised self-made drone the following day. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is diligently at work on creating rules for safe UAV operation, though any final rules remain some distance off. As drone volumes increase, delineating friend from foe in the airspace requires clear legal and regulatory frameworks, which are nascent but would help distinguish the threat of nuisance flyers from illegal overflight.” Radar sensor for security applications “Detecting and tracking airspace objects of interest is imperative for airports, chemical plants, oil and gas installations, refineries, water and energy utilities, stadiums and other public spaces”, says McCloskey. The capability is also useful for temporary events such as rallies and marathons, and many other market applications. “As with any product, our applicability will depend on variables like location, terrain, risk assessment, and existing security technologies,” says McCloskey. “Our mission is to deliver the very best radar sensor for security applications.”

Critical building management and security systems at one of the most advanced super-high-rise towers, the landmark Wasl Tower in Dubai, are to be integrated with Maxxess eFusion technology. The 302-metre multipurpose tower, which will be operated by the Mandarin Oriental Hospitality Group, incorporates offices, guest rooms, public areas and apartments, and is situated in a pivotal Dubai location. The Wasl Tower is designed with advanced sustainability features including natural shading and cooling, adaptive lighting, one of the world’s tallest natural ceramic facades, and a vertical boulevard. eFusion was selected for the project because of the flexibility it allows, enabling rapid integration, off-the-shelf, with a wide choice of security, safety and business-critical technologies. With a modular, building block approach, eFusion provides an umbrella management system and drives service efficiency by removing the need for operators to continually switch between systems. Visitor management system By keeping it simple and integrating with the widest choice of technologies, Maxxess removes the complexity A key use of the technology will be to integrate back-of-house operations at the Wasl guest apartments with front-of-house systems, for maximum ease of use and operational efficiency using the Maxxess unified platform. This eFusion solution comprises a 900-plus reader ASSA ABLOY VingCard access control system, a 1700 camera Hanwha surveillance system, and advanced key management with Deister ProxSafe, and it will use the BACnet protocol to integrate the building management system (BMS). The Tower will also benefit from Maxxess VisitorPoint visitor management system, a Zenitel intelligent communication system and disabled call-to-assist alarms. The VisitorPoint integration will improve the guest and resident experience, reduce administration and front-desk queuing, and ensure smooth running of functions from visitor and contractor management to collections and deliveries, and security. Streamline security, safety and facilities management “The challenge with projects of this scale is to find a simple, straightforward platform that communicates with everything and works with all the systems involved,” says Lee Copland, Managing Director EMEA, Maxxess. “By keeping it simple, and integrating with the widest choice of technologies, Maxxess removes the complexity.” The Wasl Tower project is the latest of a growing number of mixed-use developments, including hotels, retail, office and residential complexes to use eFusion to streamline security, safety and facilities management. Last year Maxxess won an Intersec Award for its major eFusion implementation at Bluewaters Island.

PACOM Systems, which designs, develops, and manufactures security platforms for enterprise multi-site and campus environments, announces that Hancock Whitney Corporation continues to roll out the PACOM GMS security management platform to their growing number of bank financial centers and ATMs. Hancock Whitney Corporation operates bank offices and financial centers in Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, offering comprehensive financial products and services, including traditional and online banking; commercial and small business banking; private banking; trust and investment services; healthcare banking; certain insurance services; and mortgage services. Multi-site security management platform GMS meets end-user demands for a multi-site security system with multiple integrations PACOM’s relationship began with Hancock Bank in Mississippi and, after Hancock’s acquisition of Louisiana-based Whitney Bank in 2011, blossomed further still. Currently, the PACOM GMS software platform manages card access and intrusion monitoring at 258 locations and growing. Hancock Whitney does all its own 24/7/365 alarm monitoring from a central location in Gulfport, Mississippi. There are also two company data centers monitored and protected by PACOM GMS. GMS is a robust multi-site security management platform, providing integration between access control, intrusion, video, intercom and virtually any building management or security solution. Designed to manage thousands of locations simultaneously through a single interface, while providing industry-leading availability and redundancy. GMS meets end-user demands for a multi-site security system with multiple integrations. Third-party monitoring companies “One of the biggest advantages of the PACOM system,” commented Al Tapper, CPP, Manager, Bank Protective Services for Hancock Whitney Corporation, “is it’s all-inclusive with integrated card access and alarms. We have our entire company on a single, integrated platform. We do our own alarm monitoring, which is a big plus because we can immediately verify what is going on in any of our financial centers.” One of our banking acquisitions had two third-party monitoring companies" Tapper continued, “One of our banking acquisitions had two third-party monitoring companies. It was one false alarm after another. That’s dangerous, and it can be quite expensive. With PACOM and self-monitoring, we avoid that. The PACOM system also helps with disaster recovery. We can see what’s going on in our financial centers and know if our alarms are working.” Central monitoring station Hancock Whitney has launched another phase to their company-wide security platform: video integration. When an alarm goes off in any branch, the central monitoring station will automatically be able to see events associated with that alarm. Eventually, all branches and ATMs will have video monitoring with a number of integrated cameras at each location. The system currently provides access to more than 5,000 card holders with varying levels of access privileges. Alarm protocols are in place for each location, with Tapper and his team managing and monitoring the system. “PACOM helps us adapt the system to our changing needs; and when we provide feedback, PACOM listens and will consistently respond directly to that feedback, said Tapper.”

Haier Group, China’s home appliance manufacturer, has built a new industrial park in Russia to cope with the growing demand in Europe. Covering a total area of about 124.9 hectares, the new site is located in Naberezhnye Chelny, an important industrial city in Tatarstan, Russia. With the gradual completion of its factories in the industrial park, Haier is looking for an intelligent system to realise multiple tasks within the whole industrial park. First, to prevent theft and timely detect people climbing over the perimeter fence. Second, to provide comprehensive monitoring in the whole industrial park and inside the factory which includes: monitoring of production line and employees’ smoking behaviour during working hours at office areas; efficient employee attendance; vehicle identification at the entrance and exit areas of the industrial park; and the overall management of all devices, data report output, etc. Intrusion detection The Dahua Russia team designed a complete smart solution incorporating AI cameras, perimeter cameras, ANPR system, access control, time attendance system, face recognition barrier, DSS PRO platform and EVS storage for Haier’s industrial park. Notably, all of the devices were integrated in one central management platform, making it easier for operators to control and manage the system. In addition, the system also supports further device upgrade based on customer’s future plan for the next several years. AI-powered perimeter protection function can greatly reduce false alarms caused by irrelevant objects To help Haier solve the first problem, Dahua 5MP WDR IR Bullet AI Network Cameras were chosen to safeguard the perimeter of the Haier industrial park. Featuring active deterrence, the cameras are able to proactively warn intruders to leave before users take action. Once an intrusion is detected, a white light will turn on, accompanied by a buzzer to warn off the intruder. Additionally, its AI-powered perimeter protection function can greatly reduce false alarms caused by irrelevant objects. The combination of advanced AI analytics and real-time alerts to a desktop or mobile clients reduces system requirements and resources, thereby improving the efficiency of the surveillance system. Smart IR technology The office areas and the interior of the washing machine factory are covered with Dahua 4MP WDR IR Dome Network Cameras, while public areas are monitored by 2MP 25x Starlight IR PTZ Network Cameras. As a member of Dahua Eco-savvy product family, the Dahua 4MP WDR IR Dome Network Cameras adopt upgraded H.265 encoding technology to provide starlight, Smart IR technology, as well as intelligent image analysis techniques. It saves bandwidth and storage, with energy-saving design to enhance monitoring performance of the system. With built-in Intelligent Video System (IVS) analytic algorithm, these dome cameras also support intelligent functions to monitor a scene for tripwire violations, intrusion detection, and abandoned or missing objects. In the future, it can respond quickly and accurately to events in the monitored areas. These cameras are equipped with smooth control, high quality image and good protection As for public areas, Dahua 2MP 25x Starlight IR PTZ Network Cameras have powerful optical zoom and accurate pan/tilt/zoom performance that can provide a large monitoring range and rich details. Through the latest Starlight technology, the cameras can achieve excellent low-light performance. In addition, these cameras are equipped with smooth control, high quality image and good protection, which meet the requirements of most industrial parks. Face recognition Dahua face recognition barriers were deployed at the entrance of the Haier industrial park and its office building, allowing quick and touchless passage of registered Haier employees without using employee cards or other identification documents. The system is based on a deep learning algorithm powered by AI, which compares facial images captured by the camera with those stored in the library to verify a person’s identity and grant permission. Access will be denied for unregistered people. The industrial park’s entrance and exit use 2 Megapixel Full HD AI Access ANPR Cameras to identify entering and exiting vehicles. Boasting a capture rate of over 99%, the cameras can automatically recognise the number plate of a vehicle in low speed less than 40 kmph, and capture vehicle data such as vehicle direction, vehicle size and vehicle colour detection (in daytime) based on deep learning algorithm. Aside from these capabilities, the cameras can also control the barrier according to the whitelist set by users and let registered vehicles pass without stopping. The Dahua DSS PRO management platform integrates all cameras and the aforementioned devices At the management centre, all the information collected by font-end cameras will be transferred to a 16-HDD Enterprise Video Storage. With Seagate HDD, the device offers unparalleled capacity performance for users to store massive videos and obtain evidence when needed. The Dahua DSS PRO management platform integrates all cameras and the aforementioned devices, allowing operators to easily control and manage the system. Up-to-date Dahua AI equipment Dahua Technology’s smart industrial park solution has assisted Haier in creating a modern intelligent industrial park in Russia. The up-to-date Dahua AI equipment provides Haier a long-term smart security system with upgraded security level and enhanced management efficiency. “The traditional personnel management system requires manual registering of employee information and cards to enter and exit office areas, which is inefficient and difficult to manage, and often high in cost. Upgrading the access verification system is crucial for modern companies like Haier in order to increase the security level of its industrial park and office building. We look forward to our future cooperation,” said Zhao Shengbo, Regional Director of Dahua CIS. “During the requirement discussion, solution design, and engineering survey, Dahua shows professionalism and excellent communication skills. Haier is satisfied with the first step cooperation and looking forward to the second step of the project,” said Liu Wei, Overseas Regional Project Manager of Haier Group.  

BI-City Tokyo is located in Nur-Sultan (Astana), the capital city of Kazakhstan. It is a high-end residential complex of BI Group – a construction holding company in the Kazakhstan real estate market. At present, three apartment buildings with public areas and more than 400 apartment units have been completed. Aiming to create modern high-end intelligent buildings and residential areas, the BI Group wanted to upgrade the existing analogue video intercom system of BI-City Tokyo. Analogue intercom system The original analogue intercom system in this community is outdated and cannot meet the diverse security requirements of high-end residential areas. First, the original analogue intercom does not support retaining images and leaving messages. Second, this system only supports access cards to open doors, which is inconvenient for residents in case they forgot their card. Third, the original system cannot add IP cameras to monitor public areas such as children's playground, fitness areas, etc. Fourth, the cold winter temperature in Nur-Sultan requires high-performance equipment capable of operating in extreme environments. Cold winter temperature requires high-performance equipment capable of operating in extreme environments Faced with the abovementioned challenges, BI Group was also looking for a trustworthy brand that can provide not only modern smart system but also technical support and reliable after-sales service. Meeting all the above requirements, Dahua smart residential solution was chosen to be the security solution provider of BI-City Tokyo. Access ANPR Camera The complete solution deployed more than 300 pieces of Dahua equipment, including Indoor Monitor, Apartment Outdoor Station, IP Camera, Access ANPR Camera, Video Recorder, etc. The solution supports two-way audio intercom, real-time video and messaging feature. In addition, a variety of door opening methods were also implemented: door opening via remote calling, door opening using access card, and remote door opening via APP. Additionally, all the equipment can be visualised and integrated in the Dahua DSS platform for centralised management, operation and maintenance. Moreover, the temperature in Nur-Sultan can reach up to negative 40 degrees in winter season. This requires high-performance outdoor devices featuring dust and water resistance, and explosion-roof capability. In response to this pressing challenge, Dahua apartment outdoor station VTO1210C-X-S1 and access ANPR camera ITC237-PW1B-IRZ that support wide working temperature were installed at the entrance of the apartment building for a more effective visitor and vehicle management. Built-in intelligent video analytics When a visitor arrives at the entrance of the apartment building and dials a resident’s room number through the Dahua apartment outdoor station, the camera installed at the entrance will synchronise the video with the visitor’s image captured in the resident’s indoor monitor. Once the visitor’s identity is confirmed, the resident just needs to press the button on the indoor monitor to open the door remotely. With Dahua app, users can even answer calls and open doors remotely when they are out for work or travelling. As for vehicles, Dahua access ANPR camera ITC237-PW1B-IRZ is designed for extreme temperature environments (temperature range of -40°C to +60°C). With built-in intelligent video analytics, the camera has the ability to detect and recognise moving vehicle's plate number within low speed. IR Mini-Bullet Network Camera The camera uses a set of optical features to balance light throughout the sceneFor both approaching and departing vehicles, the access ANPR camera takes a snapshot of the number plate and vehicle overview picture, as well as records corresponding surveillance videos. By setting a whitelist, the camera can automatically control the barrier or gate to open if a plate number recorded in the whitelist has been recognised. The public areas including children's playground, fitness areas, as well as the lobby are covered by 2MP IR Mini Dome Network Camera IPC-HDBW4231E-ASE, 2MP and 3MP IR Mini-Bullet Network Camera. The Starlight Ultra-low Light Technology of IPC-HDBW4231E-ASE offers light sensitivity, capturing colour details under low light condition up to 0.002lux. The camera uses a set of optical features to balance light throughout the scene, resulting in clear images in dark environments. Smart residential solution Dahua smart residential solution provides an integrated management platform for the management personnel of BI-City Tokyo. It assists in the remote and visual management of the property and improves the services and facilities they offer. Security guard at the entrance is not needed anymore to manage entering and exiting vehicles, which saves labour costs, reduces the waiting time of vehicles and improves traffic efficiency. In addition, the all-round monitoring of the public areas within BI-City Tokyo greatly improves the safety level of the entire community. The video intercom system of the building provides a variety of convenient door opening methods, enhancing the resident’s living experience. "We adopted analog solution in the first phase. From the second phase, we replaced all of analogue system with Dahua’s IP video intercom solution. We hope that Dahua will help us complete the solution planning of the three, four, five, and six phases”, said Arman, General Manager of BI Group.

Brienon-sur-Armançon is a city in the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region of north-central France, with a population of about 3,300. Located at the intersection of two rivers – Créanton and 'Armançon, Brienon-sur-Armançon enjoys an advanced road network which is vulnerable to illegal activities. To make the city safer, the local government, with far less than sufficient police force at hand, chose to secure its city and residents with Dahua Safe City Solution. There were two main pressing issues that needed to be addressed. Firstly, the city had far less than insufficient police force, only one policeman was supposed to look after the whole 3,300 dwellers. Secondly, Brienon-sur-Armançon had not prepared itself with necessary cables needed for modern surveillance systems, requiring the Dahua Team to design a tailored solution according to the unique local environment and limited human resources of this city. Wireless transmission device This solution aids them in obtaining video recordings that can be used as evidence in case of an incident To make up for the shortage of police force and network cables, Dahua Technology delivered a customised solution covering the whole city with various kinds of video surveillance devices. These equipment are linked by a wireless device combining PTZ camera and antenna that transmits all the collected information to the highest point in the city center. These data are then transmitted to the control center, making it easy for the police to achieve round-the-clock monitoring. To monitor major sections of the city, an array of modern devices were utilised including Starlight IR PTZ AI Network Camera, Multi-Sensor Panoramic Camera, Eyeball Camera, Thermal Camera, ANPR Camera, Wireless transmission device, keyboard, etc. From the control center in the police station, the police can check real-time situation and decide whether to take action. This solution also aids them in obtaining video recordings that can be used as evidence in case of an incident. Vehicles trigger detection In addition, the combined strength of the Dahua general camera and PTZ camera created a smart capture mechanism for the police. General cameras were installed to monitor fixed scenes, once human or vehicles trigger detection rules set by the operator (like tripwire and intrusion), the PTZ camera will automatically zoom-in and start tracking. For low-light applications, the Dahua Starlight Technology of the PTZ camera also offers outstanding light sensitivity, capturing color details even under ultra-low light condition. Moreover, ANPR Cameras were deployed for road safety enforcement on main roads. Embedded with License Plate Recognition (LPR) algorithm, the cameras have the ability to detect and recognise moving vehicle's plate number within low speed. Furthermore, installing Thermal Cameras took care of the job of monitoring the BBQ sites in the park with their built-in fire detection functionality that can detect fires even at long range distance. Effectively monitor major areas The police has solved a cemetery theft case with evidence recorded by the Dahua PTZ cameraWireless transmission device made it possible for all cameras in all locations to connect to the control center without the cost and trouble of wiring. NKB 5000 HD Network Control Keyboard was installed in the control center to help the police achieve split screen operation of both general and PTZ cameras. Some Seagate hard disks were also used to store recorded videos for future use. The Brienon-sur-Armançon police can now sit remotely in the control room and operate in an efficient way with the help of Dahua Safe City Solution, which allows them to effectively monitor major areas in the city and respond in time when an incident takes place. Dahua PTZ camera The recorded videos also serve as crucial evidence and help the police to crack a case with much less effort. In the first week of the test run of this smart system, the police has already solved a cemetery theft case with evidence recorded by the Dahua PTZ camera. “The origin of our cooperation with Dahua dates back to the visit to China a year ago. This visit to the Dahua headquarters in Hangzhou concluded with a reciprocal commitment – to equip the city of Brienon with video surveillance. We welcomed this agreement, which allowed the installation of the system and improved the daily life of our residents.” said Mr. Jean-Claude M.CARRA, Mayor of Brienon-sur-Armançon.

Idesco devised a transparent reader to simplify Infobric’s construction site system management, making it powerfully adaptable to widely different market needs and technology standards. For a while, construction sites have provided a textbook example of how much electronic access control systems can benefit managers. Controlling access to a site, including restricted zones, machinery access (such as lifts and elevators), increases both security and safety, while also helping track authorised personnel and even equipment utilisation. Ensuring regulatory compliance Infobric Ease possesses a wide range of functionality, from site access to energy control and much more An automatic, electric system, with that much functionality combined in a single service meets a high-value need in the construction industry. Today, Infobric provides a cloud-based digital platform, Infobric Ease, to help construction site managers monitor and secure key elements, such as site safety, while increasing worker productivity and ensuring regulatory compliance. Infobric Ease possesses a wide range of functionality, from site access to energy control and much more. In addition to simplifying site management and boosting worker productivity, it simplifies sites’ compliance with staff ledger regulation across a number of European countries. Worker productivity has been enhanced by the elimination of queues to register new staff on site and attendance. Lastly, controlled access increases worker safety while reducing theft and vandalism. Simplifying worker attendance monitoring Cloud management contributes even more to time and labour cost savings while also letting site owners conveniently fulfil their law-mandated employer obligations. To prevent tax avoidance and illegal workers, some European countries require construction site managers to upload the employee data registered in their staff ledgers – which Infobric Ease also provides, thereby also simplifying worker attendance monitoring. In short, the digital tracking of all this data saves significant time and money. The RFID industry commonly labels this type of reader ‘transparent’, because it seamlessly transmits transponder data Infobric integrated Idesco’s 9 CD 2.0 Slim Pin T reader into Infobric Ease as its vital front-end interface with construction workers. The RFID industry commonly labels this type of reader ‘transparent’, because it seamlessly transmits transponder data – fully-encrypted to ANSSI Level 1 Architecture specification – directly to a system, without any mediating keys. This lets systems themselves directly control all aspects of transactions – including data collection and reader response – resulting in both a highly secure and a cost-effective solution. Several identification card standards For integrators like Infobric, 9 CD 2.0 Slim Pin T’s direct, ‘transparent’, interaction between transponder and system not only simplifies transactions. It also lets them use more of the available features in the chips in workers’ transponders. This further benefits site owners and security managers because system updates can be implemented with greater agility and cost savings. “There are several identification card standards we adapt our products and systems to work with. So, we really wanted a card reader we could use in all our markets, without needing different hardware updates after a system upgrade or launching a new functionality across our different markets. The ‘transparent’ reader from Idesco turned out to be the perfect solution”, says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. Product design and expertise Every month, the Infobric Ease system handles approx. 11,000,000 card readings" “Infobric and Idesco have been co-operating for more than 10 years and through several product development projects. Over the years, Idesco repeatedly demonstrated their excellent quality in both product design and expertise, always providing us with products and solutions that reliably withstood very rough, inclement conditions amid frequent use at our customers’ construction sites,” says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. “Every month, the Infobric Ease system handles approx. 11,000,000 card readings. So, Idesco is a key partner for Infobric, and each day their readers fill a vital role at approx. 15,000 construction sites,” says Björn Hilliges, IT & Electronics Director at Infobric. Convenient regulatory compliance Infobric ease benefits for construction sites Convenient regulatory compliance on staff ledger registration in numerous European countries Increased productivity by reducing administrative tasks Time savings from agile system updating (despite differing card standards in different markets) because reader updates are no longer needed Enhanced reader functionality for workers with included keypads Reliability of Scandinavian-designed readers that are robust, weather-proof, maintenance-free Sites can now substantively help prevent undocumented labour and unprofessional contractors Infobric Ease features: Cloud-mediated service Seamless data collection Energy control Regulatory-compliant staff ledger Automated electronic access Mobile attendance & access Staff access control Vehicle access control Machine control Smart locks Making construction sites safer Infobric designs systems that make construction sites safer, more productive and reduce costs. Infobric’s solutions ensure the right people are in the right place at the right time at the site. Infobric provides with the best-working solution for the worksite, for both work hours and after, in packages that have been serving successfully on European construction sites large and small. Their goal is to become the digitisation partner for the construction industry in the Nordics. With 30 years of experience, RFID technology pioneer Idesco Oy makes RFID readers, transponders, controllers and touch screen devices. Every day, for customers around the world, their devices collect data and enhance security for a variety of access control, vehicle identification, logistics and inventory systems.

When it comes to security and to ensuring the integrity of gaming operations, today’s casino market is risk-averse. Regulations direct the required surveillance of table games and slot machines, while modern casinos are often sprawling complexes that have a variety of other risks to be addressed, too. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the challenges of the casino market relating to security and surveillance technology?

Technology advancements often come with new terms and definitions. The language of our marketplace evolves to include new words that describe innovations in the industry. In the skilled hands of marketers, terms intended to be descriptive can also take a new element of ‘buzz,’ often presaging exciting developments that will drive the future. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable:  What new buzzword have you heard, and what does it mean for the industry?

Video cameras are everywhere, and hundreds more are installed every day. Our society appears to be reaching a point of perpetual surveillance. It certainly feels as if we are always being watched even though it is not yet the case. But as cameras are becoming more common than ever, we are also entering a new era of privacy concerns and sensitivities, as evidenced by GDPR and other such initiatives. We presented this quandary to this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Surveillance cameras can go anywhere, right? Where is it “not OK?”