Thermal imaging

Newly launching into the UK market, Burg-Wächter’s extensive range of remote access video surveillance solutions includes BurgCam Wi-Fi, which can run as either a standalone or modular system. The BurgCam analogue range updates existing coaxial systems, whilst the BurgCam IP range represents the very latest in video surveillance technology. Security specialists Burg-Wächter is bringing its extensive range of home and professional video surveillance cameras, software and accessories to the UK. With an increasing number of homeowners and businesses becoming concerned about the security of their property, security professionals are ideally placed to make the most of the increased popularity, affordability and functionality of video surveillance systems. Zoom, dome & bullet cameras Burg-Wächter’s BurgCam Wi-Fi range includes a choice of zoom, dome and bullet cameras. BurgCam Home Wi-Fi cameras offer greater than HD resolution and can run as a standalone unit (with SD card) or as a modular system, which can be tailored to suit each customer’s requirements. Sophisticated video surveillance solutions The BurgCam analogue range has been designed to bring HD video, video analytics, remote access and 4in1 technology For customers with more sophisticated video surveillance requirements there’s Burg-Wächter’s ranges of analogue and IP based solutions. The BurgCam analogue range has been designed to bring HD video, video analytics, remote access and 4in1 technology as an upgrade to existing CCTV systems running on coaxial cable. Burg-Wächter’s IP range represents the very latest in video surveillance technology. Images of up to 8MP resolution are captured through a number of different cameras, including thermal imaging options. Advanced Digital Noise Reduction and Wide Dynamic Range technology provides clear and balanced images which can be processed by intelligent video analytics for face detection, people counting, object removal/placing and virtual trip wire detection. Real-time remote video monitoring All Burg-Wächter video surveillance products are accessible locally via a connected PC as well as remotely via the BurgCam app. The app provides real time remote video monitoring on smartphones and tablets and also allows two-way audio communication with indoor cameras. BurgCam can be configured to send notifications and alerts should pre-defined events be triggered, providing additional peace of mind and faster response times.

By definition, an edge device is an entry point to a network. In the physical security industry, edge devices are the cameras, sensors, access controllers, readers and other equipment that provide information to the IP networks that drive today’s systems. In the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing refers to an increasing role of edge devices to process data where it is created instead of sending it across a network to a data center or the cloud. In our market, edge computing takes the form of smarter video cameras and other devices that store and/or process data locally. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new “on the edge” of security and video surveillance systems? 

It is generally understood that Video Management Software (VMS) is able to put operators firmly in control of a video surveillance system by allowing any combination of camera types and images to be displayed on control room screens and recorded at the same time. These include HD, 4K and ultra-high definition cameras, as well as 360° fisheye, thermal imaging and what may be legacy analogue cameras. The latest generation of open-platform VMS, however, is functionally able to deliver so much more than just the efficient management of cameras and the recording and storage of data. The contribution it can make in terms of delivering added value and business benefits, as well as the future-proofing and reduction in the total cost of ownership of a security system, is being understood and deployed by a growing number of security professionals and savvy end-users alike. VMS from manufacturers such as Wavestore, has the potential to be at the heart of a comprehensive electronic security solution End-to-end security management system Unlike end-to-end security systems or those that have very limited upgrade path opportunities, using an open-platform VMS enables integration with a host of technologies from any number of the world’s leading brands, as well as the opportunity to provide development services for specific requirements which can incorporate legacy or specialist technology into the solution. VMS from manufacturers such as Wavestore, has the potential to be at the heart of a comprehensive electronic security solution by providing a platform which makes integration between disparate third-party technologies simple and creates a total solution that is much more powerful than the sum of its parts. These not only include technologies from camera manufacturers but also from access control, intelligent video analytics, intruder detection, point of sale, and other sensors and devices making it possible for users to effortlessly operate, monitor, control and manage a best-in-breed total security solution from a single screen. Network video recorders There is certainly no shortage of manufacturers producing traditional network video recorders (NVRs) and for many projects these will offer an effective method of recording and storing video, audio and associated data. However, even if these recording devices work on an open platform, and many do not, users will very much be in the hands of the manufacturer in terms of what cameras they would be able to use with their receptive NVRs and integration with other third-party technology will be limited, if at all available. If they have not already integrated the preferred manufacturer, users may have to wait in a queue until they do! With VMS at the heart of an electronic security system, there is the flexibility to integrate with video surveillance cameras Video surveillance system With VMS at the heart of an electronic security system, there is the flexibility to integrate with video surveillance cameras from any manufacturer and have them interacting with virtually any third-party integration both today and as technology continues to move on. You are protected with a future-proof platform that allows you to take advantage of the technologies that will solve your specific problems. Plus, there is the freedom and scalability, subject to just a minimum specification, to run the VMS on a broad range of Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) hardware, reducing costs and having the freedom to choose exactly what works. Future-proof security solutions Moore’s Law can loosely be applied to video surveillance solutions. More and more data needs to be securely recorded and stored and actions triggered when an incident or pre-defined event occurs. As new threats emerge and new opportunities arise from the development of new innovative applications, the ability of a hard based solution to keep up with ever changing market demands, will be limited. A one-off investment in an open-platform VMS will offer system integrators the opportunity to deliver a bespoke solution to their end-user client Annual budget cycles and limitations may initially restrict users from buying everything on their wish list and their requirements will inevitably evolve over time. This may be because their day-to-day operational requirements have changed, their business has expanded or diversified, or simply because users’ expectations as to what can be achieved continues to increase as they gain some experience of operating a security solution and become more aware of the latest innovations.  One-off security investment A one-off investment in an open-platform VMS will offer system integrators the opportunity to deliver a bespoke solution to their end-user client which provides flexible storage as their requirements change. It will also allow them to continue to use legacy cameras alongside current and future generations of products, systems and software. Most importantly, it will allow them to adopt a ‘can do’ attitude when the client says “wouldn’t it be nice if…?’ to the idea of integrating an additional third-party system or incorporating some future technology, without having to suggest an entire existing system needs to be replaced.

Users of IDIS Center and IDIS Solution Suite can now take advantage of powerful, specialist perimeter video analytics, thanks to integration with DAVANTIS. IDIS, a global leader in video surveillance technology, is South Korea’s largest in-country manufacturer while DAVANTIS specialises in video analytics and, over the last decade, has focused on advanced perimeter security applications. These include DAVANTIS Daview LR, a powerful video analytics system designed for large perimeters utilising specific algorithms for thermal imaging and visible cameras and Daview S, an analytics system characterised by quick and simple installation. Customisable management system This latest integration applies to both the IDIS Center video management software (VMS) – a totally cost free, powerful, customisable management system that supports up to 1024 devices - and the fully-featured IDIS Solution Suite, which offers a modular design, cost-effective license structure and zero software maintenance agreements. With both IDIS Center and IDIS Solution Suite users can access DAVANTIS video analytics for live cameras and recorded video allowing real time alarm verification. Integration between IDIS and DAVANTIS video technologies makes it easy for organisations to enhance security" Robust perimeter protection Users of IDIS Center (4.2 and higher) can integrate Daview LR and Daview S (v173) via the hybrid ID series of IDIS NVRs. For larger implementations and control rooms that benefit from IDIS Solutions Suite (2.8 or higher) both Daview LR and Daview S can be integrated directly into the software, meaning there is no requirement for additional NVRs for customers to take advantage of one of the most robust perimeter protection systems on the market. “This integration between these powerful IDIS and DAVANTIS video technologies makes it easy for organisations of all sizes to enhance security at their boundaries,” says James Min, Managing Director, IDIS Europe. “The site perimeter is often the crucial first line of defence so it’s good news for our customers that IDIS and DAVANTIS are now working seamlessly together to deliver the level of enhanced protection that was once regarded as being for high-end users only.”

Dahua Technology, being the only security company that participated in the China-CEE Local Cooperation Exhibition, demonstrated its innovative solutions and regional accomplishments to a prestigious delegation of leaders from China and 16 CEEC countries. While visiting Dahua’s booth, the leaders discussed about Dahua’s contributions to the security industry as well as the local markets. Dahua Technology’s global reach As a renowned solution provider in the global video surveillance industry, Dahua Technology has achieved great success in various EU markets, including Hungary, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria, etc. In the exhibition, Dahua highlighted its new AI face recognition solution, intelligent transportation solution, and thermal technology through demonstrations and case studies of actual projects in CEE countries. As China and CEE countries relations deepen, Dahua Technology is to accelerate its business development in CEE and EU markets The team of Dahua Technology presented to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and the leaders of 16 CEE countries its latest innovations and strong results in many CEE countries, including a strategic partnership with WANHUA Borsodchem’s Hungary facilities, security solutions for a cement factory in Albania, intelligent security solutions in a Romanian international airport & Serbian smart parking solution. Afterwards, representatives from business and media sectors also visited Dahua’s booth. AI face recognition and security solutions “In the past few years, China and CEE countries have established strong business relations, and we are glad that Dahua can contribute,” said Colin Wang, Managing Director of CEE & Nordic at Dahua Technology, “The successful cases shown today prove our capability of providing first-class solutions and our lasting commitment to CEE country markets.” As China and CEE countries relations deepen, Dahua Technology is to accelerate its business development in CEE and EU markets. With the mission of ‘Enabling a Safer Society and Smarter Living’, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on innovation, quality, and service to serve partners and customers around the world.

Global and domestic threats have highlighted the need for tighter security across all verticals. One of the technologies that has redefined situational awareness and intrusion detection is thermal imaging. Once a technology exclusively manufactured for the military operations, thermal cameras today are deployed across hundreds of security applications and continue to see strong demand in existing and emerging commercial markets. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain Technology overview and early adoption What distinguishes thermal cameras from optical sensors is their ability to produce images based on infrared energy, or heat, rather than light. By measuring the heat signatures of all objects and capturing minute differences between them, thermal cameras produce clear, sharp video despite unfavorable environmental conditions. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain. Originally a military developed, commercially qualified technology, the first thermal cameras for military and aircraft use appeared in the 1950s. By the 1960s, the technology had been declassified and the first thermal camera for commercial use was introduced. However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s - when FLIR Systems introduced a camera with an uncooled thermal detector - when the technology began to see substantial adoption beyond government defense deployments. Installations at critical infrastructure sites In the 2000s, industrial companies were some of the first adopters of thermal, using the technology for predictive maintenance to monitor overheating and machine malfunctions. In the years following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, there was an increase in thermal camera installations across critical infrastructure sites. Stricter security requirements drove the deployment of thermal cameras for perimeter protection, especially in the nuclear power sector. Thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and their sharp images result in higher performing analytics In 2010, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Committee released its 73.55 policy, which states nuclear facilities must “provide continuous surveillance, observation and monitoring” as a means to enhance threat detection and deterrence efforts onsite. Because thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and because their sharp images result in higher performing analytics, thermal cameras quickly became the preferred option for nuclear facilities. Likewise, following the 2013 sniper attack on PG&E Corporation’s Metcalf transmission substation, the Federal Energy Regulation Commission introduced the Critical Infrastructure Protection Standard 014 (CIP-014). The policy requires utilities to identify threats to mission critical assets and implement a security system to mitigate those risks. This statute also led to more thermal installations in the utility sector as thermal cameras’ long-range capabilities are ideal for detection of approaching targets beyond the fence line. The demand from both industrial and critical infrastructure entities, as well as other factors, helped drive volume production and price reduction for thermal, making the technology more accessible to the commercial security marketplace. Commercial applications In recent years, the increasing affordability of thermal cameras along with the introduction of new thermal offerings has opened the door to new commercial applications for the technology. In the past, thermal cameras were designed for applications with enormous perimeters, where the camera needed to detect a human from 700 meters away. Locations like car dealerships, marinas and construction supply facilities can be protected by precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras providing an early warning to security personnel Today, there are thermal cameras specifically designed for short- to mid-range applications. Developed for small to medium enterprises, these thermal cameras ensure property size and security funds are no longer barriers to adoption. Lumber yards, recreation fields and sports arenas are some of the commercial applications now able to implement thermal cameras for 24-hour monitoring and intrusion detection. Affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses Innovation and advancements Innovation and advancements in the core technology have also spurred growth in thermal camera deployment, providing faster image processing, higher resolution, greater video analytic capabilities and better camera performance. In particular, affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses that need outdoor, wide area protection. Car dealerships, marinas and construction supply locations all store valuable merchandise and materials outside. Without protection, these assets are vulnerable to vandalism and theft. However, by providing precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras provide an early warning to security personnel so that they can intervene before a crime is committed. By helping to deter just one incident, the thermal solution delivers a clear ROI. New market opportunities Not only are there more thermal cameras in use today than ever before, but there are also more thermal sensors being integrated with other multi-sensor systems, driving the adoption of thermal in new markets. For large perimeter surveillance applications, thermal is repeatedly being integrated with radar and drones to expand situational awareness beyond the point of fixed cameras. Users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment In the commercial market, thermal imagers are combined with optical sensors, analytics and LED illuminators into one solution that integrates with central monitoring station platforms. By bringing these technologies together, users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment. The result is a lower number of false positives, reducing the total cost of ownership for the solution. These multi-sensor solutions also feature two-way audio capabilities, which enable remote security officers to act as “virtual guards” and speak to intruders in real-time to dissuade them from illegal activity. The introduction of solutions that integrate all these state-of-the-art technologies under one unit reduces the amount of capital and infrastructure needed for deployment. Consequently, more small businesses and alarm monitoring companies can implement advanced perimeter security technologies like thermal sensors, some for the very first time. Thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras Multi-sensor thermal solutions Multi-sensor solutions featuring thermal are quickly gaining traction and opening the door to new business opportunities for the security channel. One of the primary reasons for the strong market interest in these systems is they enable integrators to increase their recurring monthly revenue (RMR). With intense price competition and eroding margins on CCTV equipment, integrators have to rely on RMR to grow their businesses. Offering remote video monitoring services and virtual guarding technologies is one of the best ways to do so.  Additionally, there is a clear demand for it. Central stations are continually looking for new technologies to offer their customers and businesses are interested in economical alternatives to physical guards. In conclusion, thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras that are a substantial segment of the outdoor security protection market. From nuclear power plants to construction locations, thermal technology is being implemented to secure sites around the globe.

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

One of the UK’s largest video surveillance projects in recent years involving the deployment of 845 Wisenet cameras manufactured by Hanwha Techwin, is nearing completion. The video surveillance system, which is designed to play an important role in helping ensure the safe and reliable delivery of public transport across the West Midlands, is being used to monitor activity at over 50 railway stations, 11 bus stations, 3 Midland Metro park and ride sites, as well as the main Number 11 bus route around the City of Birmingham. Live and recorded images from all cameras are being monitored at an advanced control room, located in central Birmingham Wisenet HD IP camera integration The project which is targeted for completion in July 2018 has so far seen approximately 845 Wisenet cameras installed by Total Integrated Solutions Ltd. (TIS) on behalf of Transport for West Midlands which was set up by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to co-ordinate investment needed to improve the region’s transport infrastructure. The remaining work includes the deployment of the latest generation of Wisenet high definition IP cameras at a number of car parks, together with significant camera upgrades in Walsall and Solihull, two of four Local Authority public space CCTV systems are already monitored by WMCA. Live and recorded images from all the cameras are being monitored at a £1.2M state-of-the-art control room located in central Birmingham. “Our approach to this very large, complex project was not simply one of agreeing to meet exacting KPI’s from a performance perspective,” said Eamonn Murphy, Coleshill based TIS’s key account manager. “We felt the route to success would be to adopt a more partnership type approach, where we were not only the provider of technical solutions but were also involved at a strategic level in identifying with Transport for West Midlands a pathway of system upgrade, improved efficiency, cost reduction, innovation and utilising latest technology such as video analytics to the best advantage.” TIS is assured seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution Wisenet cameras & Veracity Coldstore solutions Transport for West Midlands evaluated cameras available from 9 different manufacturers. The subsequent decision to source all the cameras from Hanwha Techwin, (previously known as Samsung Techwin), was partly due to the price/performance ratio of its cameras, but there were two other important factors which were taken into consideration. Firstly, Hanwha Techwin has a close working relationship with its technology partner, Veracity. This meant TIS could be assured that there would be seamless integration between Wisenet cameras and the Veracity Coldstore ‘direct to storage’ solution. This negates the need for Network Video Recorders (NVRs) and thereby substantially reduces capital costs, as well as minimising setup and maintenance requirements. Open Platform cameras The Veracity Coldstore recording solution is unique in the linear way that data is written to the hard drives. Only 2 hard drives are spinning at any one time, meaning a significant reduction in power consumption, lower heat generation and greater longevity of the hard drives, reducing the overall cost of ownership. When drive failures do occur, the faulty drive can be swapped with a new drive allowing uninterrupted use. The second important factor was the capability of the Wisenet open platform cameras to accommodate a variety of edge-based analytics such as ANPR and heat mapping, should Transport for West Midlands wish to deploy these at some point in the future. Trials of the Wisenet People Counting application are currently being carried out. This utilises the analytics software developed by Facit Data Systems, another Hanwha Techwin technology partner. Wisenet SNP-6320H cameras are configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution Intelligent Day/Night cameras A large percentage of the cameras installed are Wisenet SNP-6320H 2 Megapixel Full HD network PTZ dome cameras. In addition to being a true Day/Night camera which is able to capture high quality images in low light, the SNP-6320H’s powerful 32 x zoom capability enables operators to observe the close-up detail of any activity. Trials were conducted where the cameras were capped at 2 Mbps and configured for the transmission of 25 images per second (ips) at 1080p resolution. The performance at this low bandwidth level was impressive and further contributed to the selection of the Wisenet SNP-6320H, which are also equipped with intelligent auto-tracking capability to ensure a greater level of detail can be captured when no operator is present. Other Wisenet cameras deployed as part of the project include the SNV-6084R vandal-resistant IR dome and the SNB-6004 fixed camera, both of which are able to capture Full HD 2 Megapixel images. Video Surveillance Technology “Working on rail, Metro and bus station sites spread across the wider West Midlands area is a complex and challenging operation and the TIS team deserve recognition for its expertise and diligence,” said Mark Babington, Safety & Security Manager for Transport for West Midlands. Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment" “TIS’s engineers were qualified to the highest degree to support the latest video surveillance technology, as well as being experienced to cope with older legacy systems. Both were needed within the unique environment of a busy integrated transportation network which brings its own exceptional requirements of compliance with bespoke health and safety legislation.” “Suppliers such as Hanwha Techwin and Veracity have also worked extremely well in partnership with us to ensure we could achieve maximum benefit from this substantial investment in the West Midlands transport infrastructure.” Commenting on the success of the project, Bob (H.Y.) Hwang Ph.D., Managing Director, Hanwha Techwin Europe, said: “We greatly value the opportunity to have been involved in this project. It is a excellent example of the benefit of all stakeholders interacting with each other in partnership at an early stage of a project to ensure the most suitable products are specified and subsequently installed to the client’s satisfaction.”

3xLOGIC, Inc., global provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, has announced that, in cooperation with Control Installations of Iowa (Ci3), the two companies have donated a completed video surveillance system for this iconic ball field and movie set located in Dyersville, Iowa. Installations of Iowa collaboration “Several weeks ago, there was an act of senseless vandalism that occurred on this high-profile ball field and a lot of damage was done by someone with a very poor sense of judgement,” recalled Carl Bracken, Technical Security Sales for Ci3. “The president of my company shot me a text before I even knew about the vandalism, suggesting we get involved and try to help.” Field of Dreams, released in 1989, is a movie that has inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for Best Picture of the Year Field of Dreams, released in 1989, is a movie that has inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for Best Picture of the Year. “Nearly thirty years later, we still get more than 110,000 visitors a year,” said Denise Stillman, Manager of the Field of Dreams movie site. “Most folks come to run the bases or explore the corn field. We’re the only ball park open 365 days a year, and we’re the world’s largest pick-up baseball game.” The vandalism to the field was fairly extensive and, unfortunately, also involved destruction of expensive irrigation equipment. Bracken contacted Denise Stillman to explore installing a video surveillance system for the tourist site. After initial discussions, he visited the site on a Saturday, with demo gear in hand, to show Stillman the possibilities. She was keen on what she saw but there was nothing in the budget for such a system. 3xLOGIC V250 NVR and mini dome cameras Installation comprised of a 3xLOGIC 8-channel V250 NVR; one 3xLOGIC thermal imager, pointed at the bridge leading to the site entrance Working with his company president and reaching out to various vendors, including 3xLOGIC, Bracken came up with a plan to provide the Field of Dreams with the enhanced asset protection and increased security they needed. Recently, Bracken and his team of skilled technicians completed the installation comprised of a 3xLOGIC 8-channel V250 NVR; one 3xLOGIC thermal imager, pointed at the bridge leading to the site entrance; a 3xLOGIC 3 MP mini-dome to cover the retail sales area; and two cameras covering the field itself. The recording equipment is installed on a shelf in the retail store, which is convenient and secure. “We hadn’t really thought much about security, because for 29 years we had no incidents,” said Stillman. “Now that the system is in place, it’s doing a lot of things for us. The gift shop staff feels much more confident now that they have eyes and ears watching over them. For me, I have a sense of comfort that wherever I am in the world I can see what is happening at the field at all times—I can even check if the sod is greening up. I love that, and the 3xLOGIC mobile app, View Lite II, is easy to use and empowering.” This place is important to the fabric of Iowa life and lifestyle" “This place is important to the fabric of Iowa life and lifestyle,” continued Stillman, “and Ci3 really stepped up. Carl (Bracken) was very generous with his time and he gave us a solid comfort level in understanding what we needed, what the system would look like, and how it would function. Other local vendors wanted to help, but no one took the time like Carl and Ci3.” “Along with 3xLOGIC, we were happy to make this donation. We knew Denise didn’t have sufficient budget, and they still needed to find the money to pay for their expensive irrigation system repairs,” said Bracken. “This really gives us piece of mind when no one is on site,” said Stillman, “we now have excellent visibility to areas we must be able to see, and the system provides a great deterrent effect, too.”

3xLOGIC, Inc., a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, announced that Dominion Nickel Alloys, Ltd (DNA), Burlington, Ontario, is successfully employing a combination of 3xLOGIC thermal and HD cameras to protect its valuable inventory assets. Dominion Nickel Alloys Ltd. operates on a global scale. As one of North America’s leading scrap metal recycling facilities, with experienced staff and the latest in machinery, Dominion specialises in the purchasing, sorting, processing, and marketing of a broad range of high temperature and specialty nickel-based alloys. The new 3xLOGIC thermal technology was an upgrade intended to eliminate the challenges from outdoor motion sensor technology Eliminating false alarm levels Dominion’s operations, on the outskirts of Toronto, are based at an approximately 20-acre facility where different merchants bring all manner of high-value scrap metal for processing. Trucks entering the facility first have their cargo weighed at the entrance before depositing their metal load at a specified location in the yard. Sonitrol of Canada took over Dominion Nickel’s security in 2005. The surveillance technology initially installed was triggered by outdoor motion sensors that activated any one of several PTZ cameras for verification. The new 3xLOGIC thermal technology was an upgrade intended to eliminate the challenges from outdoor motion sensor technology. These challenges were primarily high false alarm levels and limited detection range. Video surveillance with thermal and bullet cameras False alarms are a significant problem for installations such as Dominion Nickel, as Ed Bodbyl of Sonitrol Canada explained, “They were having a very high incidence of false alarms. False alarms can cause ‘alarm fatigue’ and eventually apathy at so many non-events. The biggest risk for Dominion is someone making it into the yard undetected and making off with tens, even hundreds of thousands of dollars of metal.” Bodbyl and his team designed a video surveillance system for Dominion comprised of 14 3xLOGIC thermal cameras, each paired with a 3xLOGIC HD 3MP bullet camera for verification. The entire yard is covered with this deployment, offering crisp HD images during the day, and 36-degree thermal images at night, backed by HD video. Camera views are monitored by the Sonitrol central station and the operator will take action on alarm to either summon a private guard service or request that law enforcement be dispatched to the scene. Camera views are dictated by what areas need to be monitored for intrusion detection, and the end user has access to these camera views Monitoring by Sonitrol central station Since installation in January of this year, Dominion has experienced no incidents of theft. “The new system has substantially improved coverage of the yard and the client has peace of mind that he has much better protection than in the past.” Camera views are monitored by the Sonitrol central station and the operator will take action on alarm to either summon a private guard service or request that law enforcement be dispatched to the scene. As Bodbyl emphasised, “Any time our operator sees a truck roll into the yard in the middle of the night, they’re sending the police immediately.” Cameras record to a 3xLOGIC V5000 NVR located on site. Camera views are dictated by what areas need to be monitored for intrusion detection, and the end user has access to these camera views for operational use and incident review. Effective functioning in low light “There was an initial period of adjustment and calibration to optimise the system’s ability to detect incursions while eliminating activations from innocuous elements like small mammals. Once completed, the effectiveness of the 3xLOGIC system was incredible when compared with the earlier technology.” The new thermals give us the images we need, the HD cameras function very well in low light" Bodbyl continued, “This has been our experience with this technology from the outset, and it is why we have been successfully deploying these systems all over the region.” “With this camera technology and the Sonitrol monitoring, our security is seamless to me. It takes the worry away, I’m not concerned about what is going on in the yard, Sonitrol takes care of that for us,” said Howie Fleisher, Vice President, Dominion Nickel. “The new thermals give us the images we need, the HD cameras function very well in low light. With the old system, we had too many false alarms and after a while operators become immune to responding to so many false alarms.”

Though it has been statistically proven that taking a plane is no riskier than taking a bus, people do have reasons to put extra caution on air travel safety, especially in a time replete with terrorist threats. A major line of defence must be the various sections of the airports, which, as a gateway to the outside world and transportation hub of the city, has always been on the top of the safety list of the government and all related authorities. Dahua’s Airport Solution is an intelligent security system to help ensure the safety of the airports. Elements of an effective solution First of all, an effective solution requires a complicated collaboration of multiple (sub)systems such as monitoring system, alarm system, access control system, network transmission system and management platform. As is known to all, the more steps and players it takes, the higher likelihood for a mistake to occur. Secondly, airports include a variety of places such as terminal areas, parking lots, office areas, freight areas, front desk areas (including the square in front of the terminal building), the flight areas, hangars, the perimeter area and so on, each of which operate on vertical management system. Yet due to the diversity of places and the complexity of personnel & cargoes coming in and going out in huge flow, there are too many risky elements to control. Thirdly, it’s not only about accuracy but also about swiftness when it comes to airport security. Safety should bring efficiency and not the other way around. For example, in April 2017, a drone flew into Chengdu Airport, resulting in the runway closing down for 80 minutes, the loss of which was estimated as at least 10 million dollars, not to mention collateral damages in the broad sense. Dahua’s Airport Solution is a unified security system combining multifunctional HD surveillance cameras with deep-learning AI  Unifying a security system Designed to solve all the difficulties mentioned above, Dahua’s Airport Solution is a unified security system combining multifunctional HD surveillance cameras with deep-learning AI that can analyse the big data to get the target, be it a car, a face or a series of numbers. In terms of vehicle management: you can adopt all-in-one cameras to capture and recognise license plates of vehicles accessing the airport. This will trigger the alarm when detecting illegal, stolen, blacklisted, hit-and-run, crime-related and other suspects’ vehicles. Covering the whole route of a vehicle, from entrance highway, to parking lots and then to exit, the surveillance system can effectively assist security guards and police to keep a smooth service, and respond quickly when things go wrong, even if it’s just something from the car that was left behind due to carelessness. In terms of passenger management, the same full coverage of the security system also applies to this, from someone stepping off the car to one’s entering terminal building and checking-in area and all the way to the last step to the boarding gate. The HD surveillance cameras endowed with deep-learning AI have world-leading accuracy in face recognition and e-passport verification. Any suspect, should they show up in the airport area, will at once trigger the alarm. Guarding the airport perimeter Dahua’s Airport Solution also takes care of another crucial part of airport that is the perimeter area. One must resort to special equipment like thermal imaging cameras to keep the safety of the said area. An example of this is Dahua’s solution for one specific airport, which covers a perimeter of 30 km and boasts an annual throughput of 30,000,000 people and 8,000,00 tons of cargo. According to the thermal imaging calculation form below: Dahua chose to use a 100mm lens with a resolution of 640 x 512 and set the installation height at 5M, which detects 1.8m x 0.5m, showing people from within 3000m. The perimeter will be well covered for intruder detection purpose with 10 cameras. The intelligent analysis of IVS (intelligent video system) requires 10 x 10 pixels, under which condition, each thermal imaging camera can detect and analyse objects from within 400m. There is in total 12km of perimeter length in need of such cameras, so Dahua chose to place 30 there, totalling 40 thermal imaging cameras to solve the problem. Advantages of using Dahua tech It should be noted that Dahua’s thermal imaging technology has the following advantages: PTZ function, long distance surveillance (which can detect a vehicle 8.8 km away), long distance zoom, binocular lens (optical and thermal imaging lens), and strong intelligence (which can detect intrusion). Compared to alternate perimeter protection equipment on the market today, such as vibration fibre sensor and IR beam sensor, thermal imaging camera has higher accuracy and less false alarm while directly providing video to verify. Dahua has established stable cooperation with world-renowned platforms like Genetec, Milestone, Avigilon, AXXON, ISS, infusing Dahua’s Airport Solution with more possibilities. Supported by strong R&D resources and good working relationships earned in multiple previous collaborations with partners, Dahua can ensure seamless integration whether it’s front-end IPC or back-end NVR, fulfilling different demands of clients and building a sound security system for the airport. In future, Dahua will keep investing in R&D of cutting-edge technologies into the realm of civil aviation video surveillance solutions. With a mission of “Safer Society, Smarter Living”, Dahua will continue to focus on “Innovation, Quality, and Service” to serve partners and customers around the world.

At a multi-site chicken farm, a new approach was required when it came to monitoring sheds and ensuring bio-security conditions are met. Woodhouse Fields Farm worked with rural security specialist Agri-CCTV, and used an innovative Hikvision Wi-Fi surveillance solution to address the dispersed nature of the chicken-rearing facilities – and is trialing the use of thermal cameras as a security measure well-suited to rural applications. Woodhouse Fields in Shrewsbury is a multi-level farming enterprise, which includes around 1500 acres of arable land and nine large poultry sheds for large-scale poultry farming. Corve Poultry Ltd. owner-operator Jonathan Benbow was looking for a means of monitoring his poultry sheds to ensure operational efficiency and bio-security adherence. He approached specialist agricultural security and surveillance installer Agri-CCTV Ltd to help develop a solution. Woodhouse Fields in Shrewsbury is a multi-level farming enterprise, which includes around 1500 acres of arable land Rural community security Agri-CCTV was founded in 2010 with the aim of developing security solutions for the unique issues faced by clients in rural communities. To date James Anstis-Smith and the team at Agri-CCTV have provided peace of mind to over 600 farms and commercial properties across the UK and France. Anstis-Smith said in this case that Agri-CCTV was asked to provide a system that delivered video images from inside each poultry shed, to allow for the animals to be monitored remotely. The main challenge that had to be tackled was the distance between the farm’s two main sites, which are nearly one kilometre apart. Agri-CCTV was founded in 2010 with the aim of developing security solutions for the unique issues faced by clients in rural communities Wi-Fi based solutions “As a result of this distance between the sites, we couldn’t use standard cabling,” Anstis-Smith said. “We had to approach the problem from a different perspective. So we worked with Hikvision to develop a Wi-Fi-based solution, which would link-up each shed across the whole site.” There were additional advantages other than the provision of video images, though – the expansion of Wi-Fi across the site has also allowed Woodhouse Fields Farm to improve its on-site communications capabilities. Anstis-Smith explains, “Along with the primary network, we also provided a second layer of networking, installing a Wi-Fi access point in every other shed. This serves an important function: allowing the user to have multiple access points across the site, and providing uninterrupted Wi-Fi calling and internet connectivity across the whole site as they work, without interruption to surveillance footage. Because the sheds are steel-clad, they don’t allow for mobile phone signal reception. With this Wi-Fi connectivity, they are able to make internet-based calls in a mobile-unfriendly environment. This has proven to be of immense benefit to the farm staff in helping with operational communications.” Along with the primary network, we also provided a second layer of networking, installing a Wi-Fi access point in every other shed" No interruption in farm productivity The entire site installation was planned to allow for the addition of components or the upgrade of equipment without having an impact on the primary infrastructure; future-proofing which will mean that there is no interruption in the farm’s productivity if those changes need to be made. Agri-CCTV installed Hikvision cameras in all nine of Woodhouse Field Farm’s poultry sheds, for the ongoing monitoring of poultry growing, feeding, welfare and to ensure that their strict bio-security standards are adhered to. The cameras selected for these internal monitoring roles were 4MP HD EXIR models. Agri-CCTV installed Hikvision cameras in all nine of Woodhouse Field Farm’s poultry sheds Hikvision’s EXIR cameras Hikvision’s EXIR cameras have built-in LEDs housed in a separate window to the camera lens, and utilise Hikvision’s patented EXIR technology. EXIR allows for better infrared coverage than traditional IR arrays, and eliminates the issue of internal infrared reflection and image bleeding. This makes them ideal for 24-hour monitoring, which is crucial to a poultry farming operation. A further EXIR camera was installed in the Farm’s boiler room for the security and monitoring of the machinery and the safety of the room’s lone worker. Four external cameras monitor the site; these are also EXIR models with powerful 80m infrared range, offering the ability to capture clear images with no additional external illumination required. Images from all of the cameras are recorded to a Hikvision 16-channel network video recorder, equipped with an 8TB hard drive. “In order to connect the two sites, we used Deliberant point-to-point networking equipment, which allows for multi-site connectivity and for the extension of internet access across the property,” Anstis-Smith said. “Then for the access points, we used equipment from Ubiquiti Networks.” Hikvision’s EXIR cameras have built-in LEDs housed in a separate window to the camera lens Thermal vision In addition to the standard CCTV aspects of the system, Agri-CCTV and Woodhouse Fields Farm are trialing a new Hikvision thermal camera to determine if this relatively new surveillance technology is a good fit for rural and remote applications. Anstis-Smith explains: “The CCTV industry is always evolving, and at Agri-CCTV we’re keen to increase our knowledge and adapt to new technology developments. One of these is certainly the emergence of the use of thermal imaging for a much wider scope of applications than its previous very high-end uses. “We believe that in a comparatively short space of time thermal imaging will become a commonplace system to install, partly because of the wide spectrum of imaging it can cover in both day and night mode, and also because pioneers like Hikvision are introducing cost-effective models that are suitable for a range of uses.” We believe that in a comparatively short space of time thermal imaging will become a commonplace system to install" No lighting required The advantage of thermal imaging for CCTV applications is that no lighting is required: the camera can pick up heat sources and associated movements at long distances, at night, and in all kinds of weather conditions. This makes it ideal for more remote security-sensitive locations. “We’re looking at utilising thermal technology in the long range security of solar farms, as well as for farms where bio-security is key and at other food production sites,” Anstis-Smith says. “We anticipate that the use of thermal technology will increase in demand and potentially become a requirement for these kinds of sites as security for food producers grows ever more stringent.” At Woodhouse Fields Farm, the trial will use a single camera to judge whether it has the potential to be used in place of a number conventional CCTV cameras. We’re looking at utilising thermal technology in the long range security of solar farms" 360 degree coverage “We shall be positioning the system high in a centralised position, allowing full 360 degree coverage of the farm and its surrounding access points,” Anstis-Smith says. “With the thermal detection range extending as far as one mile, we believe just this one individual camera, if used correctly, can take over the role which would normally require the deployment of several key cameras. This in turn will lower capital expenditure and operational expenditure costs.” The thermal camera model being used in the trial is Hikvision’s DS-2TD4035D-25, which is a dual-function thermal and optical network speed dome. Agri-CCTV will measure the success of the thermal camera against a standard Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) IR-equipped night vision camera to gauge how much more effective Hikvision’s thermal technology may turn out to be. We shall be positioning the system high in a centralised position, allowing full 360 degree coverage of the farm" Chicken production monitoring  “The equipment is utilised on a daily basis for the monitoring of chicken production and welfare,” Anstis-Smith says. “The system is particularly useful when it comes to the monitoring of feed deliveries on-site, ensuring that they are operating correctly, and according to the strictly maintained bio-security standards Woodhouse Fields Farm has in place.” The Wi-Fi-based system installed by Agri-CCTV provides Jonathan Benbow and the Woodhouse Fields Farm staff with the ability to monitor their CCTV images from anywhere on-site – anywhere in the world with an internet connection, in fact – to ensure that the whole site and farming operation is safe, secure and functioning productively. The equipment is utilised on a daily basis for the monitoring of chicken production and welfare" Internet access And they now have the added bonus of an internet access point in their top site office, where none previously existed, allowing for further connectivity and enhanced opportunities to keep tabs on day-to-day operations and welfare – a crucial aspect of the farm’s daily activities. “I’m extremely happy with the images we get from the Hikvision cameras,” Benbow says. “They’re clear, effective – even though they are transmitted by WiFI – and also very useful for us. I wouldn’t be without the system now.” The solution installed offers the capacity for the farm to grow its operations, and to extend its CCTV-based monitoring and analysis over the ensuing years. The ability to monitor ongoing activities will allow for operational improvements and efficiencies, which in turn will lead to more cost-effective products for customers. And a better functioning farm operation means better quality food products for the nation’s supermarkets.