Video analytics

In 1973, a brilliant economist named E.F. Schumacher wrote a seminal book titled ‘Small Is Beautiful:’ taking an opposing stance to the emergence of globalisation and “bigger is better” industrialism. He described the advantages of smaller companies and smaller scales of production, highlighting the benefits of building our economies around the needs of communities, not corporations. In almost every industry or market that exists in the world today, you're likely to find a difference in size between companies. Whether it’s a global retail chain versus a small family-owned store, a corporate restaurant chain versus a mom-and-pop diner or a small bed and breakfast versus a large hotel chain — each side of the coin presents unique characteristics and advantages in a number of areas. Disparity in physical security industry Customers are drawn to products and services from large enterprises as the big names typically imply stability This disparity very clearly exists in the physical security industry, and differences in the sizes of product manufacturers and service providers could have important implications for the quality and type of the products and services offered. All too often, customers are drawn to products and services from large enterprises, as the big names typically imply stability, extensive product offerings and global reach. And that's not to say that these considerations are unwarranted; one could argue that larger companies have more resources for product development and likely possess the combined expertise and experience to provide a wide range of products and services. But the value that a company’s products and services can bring isn’t necessarily directly related to or dependent on its size. In an age where the common wisdom is to scale up to be more efficient and profitable, it’s interesting to pause and think about some of the possible advantages of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Typically, “small” companies are defined as those with less than 100 employees and “medium” with less than 500. Providing social mobility  Schumacher argued that smaller companies are important engines of economic growth. Indeed, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a group of 36 member countries that promotes policies for economic and social well-being, SMBs account for 60 to 70 percent of jobs in most OECD countries. Importantly, SMBs provide resilience in that there are often large economic and social impacts when big companies fail. Smaller companies are better for regional economies in general, as earnings stay more local compared to big businesses, which in turn generates additional economic activity. SMBs are also better at providing social mobility for disadvantaged groups by giving them opportunities and enabling them to realise their potential. Smaller companies are often more innovative, bringing to the market novel technologies and solutions such as Cloud, analytics, AI, and IoT New companies introduce new technologies There's no denying the role of start-ups when it comes to innovation. In the security industry, many new technologies (e.g. Cloud, analytics, AI, IoT) are first brought to the market by newer companies. In general, smaller companies’ products and services often have to be as good or better than others to be competitive in the marketplace. They are therefore often more innovative, bringing to the market novel technologies and solutions. And these companies are also more willing to try out other new B2B solutions, while larger companies tend to be more risk-averse. Customer service Aside from the quality of products and services, arguably one of the most important components of a security company’s success is its ability to interact with and provide customers the support that they deserve. Smaller companies are able to excel and stand out to their customers in a number of ways: Customer service. Customers’ perceptions of a product’s quality are influenced by the quality of support, and smaller manufacturers often possess a strong, motivated customer service team that can be relatively more responsive to customers of all sizes, not just the large ones. A superior level of support generally translates into high marks on customer satisfaction, since customers’ issues with products can be resolved promptly. Flexibility. SMBs have a greater capacity to detect and satisfy small market niches. While large companies generally create products and services for large markets, smaller companies deal more directly with their customers, enabling them to meet their needs and offer customised products and services. And this translates to adaptability, as SMBs become responsive to new market trends. By having a pulse on the market, smaller companies have much more flexibility in their supply chain and can adjust much faster in response to changing demand. Decision-making. Smaller companies are much more agile in decision-making, while larger enterprises often suffer from complex, tedious and lengthy decision-making processes. Communication is easier throughout SMBs, as smaller teams enable new ideas to flow and can solve problems faster. Job satisfaction Employees working for SMBs connect more directly with the company's goals and objectives, which in turn increases motivation and job satisfaction Employees working for SMBs connect more directly with the company's goals and objectives, which in turn increases motivation and job satisfaction. SMBs are also generally more connected to local communities and participation in community activities leads to a greater sense of purpose. Additionally, SMBs have a much smaller impact on the environment, which is increasingly becoming an important consideration for today’s employees and customers. Though Schumacher's book takes a much deeper dive into the large global effects of scale on people and profitability, the general impact of a company’s size on its products and services is clear. It’s important for all players in the security industry to remember that the commitment and dedication to product quality can be found in businesses of all sizes. Ensuring safety of people, property and assets Large manufacturers may catch your eye, but small business shouldn’t be forgotten, as they can offer end users a robust set of attributes and benefits. While all security companies are aiming to achieve a common goal of providing safety for people, property and assets, smaller businesses can provide extensive value when it comes to driving the economy, innovating in the industry, providing quality employment and offering superior customer service.

Milestone Systems, the open platform company in networked video management software (VMS), announces XProtect 2018 R3 to be released on October 2. With this third release in 2018, Milestone is continuing to respond to the demands from the partner community. We live in an ever-changing world, and the frequent release cycle ensures that the needs of Milestone stakeholders are rapidly met. Many modern-day surveillance cameras are shipped with advanced analytical functions like motion detection, temperature detection and perimeter protection. These camera functions generate events. With the versatile Rules Engine in Milestone XProtect VMS, these and other device inputs can be used to trigger actions like starting and stopping recordings, manually or automatically, sending alerts or other responses. Support for Axis network cameras With the 2018 R3 product version and Device Pack 9.9a, users can benefit from an extended event list, allowing them to make use of all the event features the camera has to offer With the 2018 R3 product version and Device Pack 9.9a, users can benefit from an extended event list, allowing them to make use of all the event features the camera has to offer. This improvement starts with support for Axis network cameras, enabling the Axis Camera Application Platform (ACAP) to work even better with XProtect. An important aspect in keeping a video system secure and best protected against attacks or unwanted behaviour is having a clear understanding of what is happening in the system. Here the Log Server plays a vital role storing all log messages for the entire video monitoring system. This provides information about patterns of use, access logging, system performance and administrative activities. Faster documentation of system activities With the 2018 R3 product update, users can enjoy a new and greatly improved Log Server that provides even faster identification and documentation of historical system activities and user interactions in the system. Among the many operational enhancements in this last release of 2018 is support for Smart Map in the MIP SDK allowing the Milestone developer community to enhance operator awareness. XProtect 2018 R3 will be available through the Milestone Partner community from October 2.

The rapidly evolving security landscape and the technologies poised to disrupt the industry will take centre stage in a reimagined expo hall at Global Security Exchange (GSX), being held Sept 23-27 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. In the first year of its rebrand following a 63-year history as the ASIS International Seminar and Exhibits, GSX is expected to attract more than 20,000 operational and cyber security professionals and 550 exhibitors for the industry’s flagship event. ASIS International is the world's largest association for security management professionals. “ASIS is reinventing the way our industry supports innovation,” said Richard E. Chase, CPP, PCI, PSP, 2018 President, ASIS International. “We're bringing together entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and business and industry veterans for conversations and hands-on demos of technologies that are reshaping entire industries. Attendees will hear perspectives from all vantage points and walk away with a better understanding of the risks and opportunities inherent in these applications. There is no other event in our industry offering these comprehensive discussions and demonstrations—directly on the expo floor.” The GSX show floor will feature immersive, experiential learning opportunities including the X Stage, the event’s signature innovation theatre Leading technologies at learning theatres Upending the traditional trade show experience, the GSX show floor will feature immersive, experiential learning opportunities including the X Stage, the event’s signature innovation theatre. Here attendees will see frontier technologies demoed, and will hear how cryptocurrencies and AI/VR/AR are reshaping entire industries. Education on the X Stage includes: Blockchains, Crypto, and De-Centralisation: Tuesday 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Learn how these technologies are poised to revolutionise fundamental concepts within the security industry, like identity management, authentication, and personnel surety. Forecasting Security Needs Through Intelligence–How Information and Analytics Will Drive the Future: Tuesday 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. Hear firsthand from Ty Richmond, CPP, president, Universal Services of America, as he discusses Allied Universal investments in AI and Robotics and how they leverage technology to make deployment of human protective assets more efficient and effective. Enterprise Virtual Reality: Wednesday 2:30 - 3:00 p.m. STRIVR kicks off an afternoon of programming focused on AR/VR and wearable technology by discussing how virtual reality is changing the game in developing training content. Security Innovation Landscape: Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Building off exciting news announced at Air Force Major General Bradley Spacy's Wednesday keynote, groups like AFWERX, Accenture, and the DHS Science and Technology Directorate will discuss the ways they are accelerating innovative solutions to create real long-term value. Xperience and Xcelerated Exchange Stage Additional theatres include the Xperience Stage–focused on tried and true best practices–and the Xcelerated Exchange Stage, which provides a ‘town hall’ forum for conversations between industry, technologists, and business and government leaders. Also, on the expo floor is the GSX D3 Xperience–providing hands-on demos and education around drones, droids, and anti-UAS defence systems.

Inspired by SPS IPC Drives in Nuremberg, Germany and its first sister event in China, SIAF – SPS Industrial Automation Fair Guangzhou, Smart Industry Solutions Shanghai (SISS) was successfully held on 4 September. The conference took place concurrently with Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology (SIBT) and Shanghai Smart Home Technology (SSHT) this year for the first time, providing a supplementary programme for these fairs’ visitors to discover more about the latest manufacturing solutions for their technology products. Smart Industry Solutions Shanghai (SISS) The third edition of SISS presented an overview of the application of Internet of Things (IoT) in the smart industrial automation industry Organised by Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt Co Ltd, the third edition of SISS successfully achieved its aim of presenting an overview of the application of Internet of Things (IoT) in the smart industrial automation industry. SISS was concurrently held with Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology (SIBT) and Shanghai Smart Home Technology (SSHT) for the first time. SISS acted as an effective avenue for the exchange of market intelligence, with expert speakers delivering thought-provoking presentations touching every facet of intelligent industrial automation system. This year’s speakers represented renowned companies, institutes and associations including Contrinex Electronic Technology, Datalogic (Shenzhen) Industrial Automation, Pepperl+Fuchs Automation, Rockwell Automation and Wintelligence. For these companies, the conference helped them to get their innovative ideas across to different sectors of the industry. Conversely, 85 conference attendees from the smart industrial automation and manufacturing sectors were impressed by the engaging dialogue, and found it rewarding to network with key players within the industry. IoT and Artificial Intelligence This year, several key developments of Industry 4.0, ranging from smart factories to automotive applications and intralogistics, were pinpointed, including the idea of utilising IoT technologies to develop revolutionary manufacturing methods. Speakers from different sectors also shared their thoughts on the latest trends related to big data analytics, IT/OT convergence, digital twin and artificial intelligence.

Three years after its original decision to single source video monitoring solutions from Hanwha Techwin, (previously known as Samsung Techwin) the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust is now investing in the latest Wisenet camera and recording technology to help create a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors within its mental health units. Over 380 Wisenet X H.265 network cameras have recently been installed at 9 mental health units located throughout the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust estate. These are in addition to the large numbers of earlier generation Wisenet cameras which were installed at 19 other units during previous phases of the project. “We were pleasantly surprised to learn that the price of the Wisenet X cameras is lower than the older models which they supersede and yet they deliver superior performance and enhanced feature sets,” said Mark Milliard, Capital Projects Manager at the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust. “It was an easy decision therefore to deploy various Wisenet X models throughout the 9 mental health units.” Safeguarding staff, patients and visitors We are committed to the Safewards’ initiative, whose key aim is to reduce the rates of conflict within in-patient mental health settings" The safety of its staff, patients and visitors is fundamentally important to the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust and it needs to be able to constantly and unobtrusively monitor patient activity. The Trust, which currently provides care for over 40,000 people with mental health problems, offers a range of specialist services that are dedicated to the care and recovery of anyone experiencing mental ill health or substance misuse issues across Norfolk and Suffolk. Although some of the mental health units are secure, the majority allow the free movement of patients. “We are committed to the Safewards’ initiative, whose key aim is to reduce the rates of conflict within in-patient mental health settings,” said Mark Milliard, “We believe that the use of smart technology, such as IP network-based video monitoring systems, can play a large role in helping us achieve this objective.” Upgrading to IP network-based systems Mark, who has worked within NHS Estates since 1986, has over recent years overseen the migration of the Trust’s analogue CCTV systems to IP network-based solutions. “The analogue systems which were installed a number of years ago became increasingly unreliable and we made the decision to upgrade them with IP network-based systems,” explained Mark. I was particularly impressed with the quality of the images which could be captured by the Wisenet cameras" “A key advantage of being able to transmit images over the network is that it provides the flexibility for any authorised user to view live or recorded video captured by any of the cameras from their PCs. We realised that this would provide us with much more flexibility in terms of how we monitor activity at the mental health units, compared to the analogue CCTV systems which could only transmit captured images to a central location.” Monitoring high-definition images “It made sense to source the cameras from just one manufacturer and from an ongoing maintenance point of view, to deploy the minimum possible number of different camera models,” said Mark. “I decided to carry out my own research as to which manufacturer had a product portfolio which could best cover all our requirements, as well as offering us the value we were looking for. “Part of the value formulae had to include a rock-solid reputation for reliability, as well as cameras with advanced technical features which would allow us to capture and monitor high definition images, regardless of the location or environmental conditions.” Mark’s extensive evaluation of a large number of manufacturers resulted in a shortlist of two, from which Hanwha Techwin emerged as the winner. “Both companies were able to show evidence as to the reliability of their cameras,” said Mark. “However, I was particularly impressed with the quality of the images which could be captured by the Wisenet cameras and the fact that each camera, depending on its location, could be configured to multi-stream images at different frame rates and at different resolutions. This offers a significant benefit from a network bandwidth management point of view.” Wisenet cameras with 150dB WDR technology Among the Wisenet X cameras recently installed are a number of XNP-6370R two megapixel 37x network IR PTZ domes which allow operators to zoom into observe close up detail of any activity The majority of the cameras installed at the 9 mental health units are Wisenet XNV-6080R two megapixel vandal-resistant network domes which have built-in IR illumination and utilise H.265 compression to minimise bandwidth and video storage requirements. Equipped with the world’s best 150dB Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology and the world’s best motorised varifocal F0.94 low light lens, Wisenet X cameras such as the XNV-6080R, are supercharged by the most powerful DSP chipset ever incorporated into a full camera range. Together, these features ensure superb quality colour images are captured, regardless of the environment or the time of day. The processing power of the Wisenet X chipset also provides the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust with the option to run multiple on-board third-party analytics applications. PTZ domes, fishnet and panoramic cameras Also, among the Wisenet X cameras recently installed are a number of XNP-6370R two megapixel 37x network IR PTZ domes which allow operators to zoom into observe close up detail of any activity. In addition, a number of Wisenet XNF-8010R 4 megapixel 360° fisheye and Wisenet PNM-9020V 7.3 megapixel 180° panoramic cameras have been installed, in order to efficiently reduce the number of cameras which would normally be needed to monitor wide open areas within the mental health units. With 4HDDs, the XRN-1610S offers a potential on-board storage capacity of up to 24TB, with additional storage possible via e-SATA Images from all the recently installed cameras are being recorded onto Wisenet XRN-1610S Network Video Recorders (NVRs). With 4HDDs, the XRN-1610S offers a potential on-board storage capacity of up to 24TB, with additional storage possible via e-SATA. It also supports WiseStream, a complementary compression technology which dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement in the image. Bandwidth efficiency is improved by up to 75% compared to current H.264 technology when WiseStream is combined with H.265 compression. Relaxed and secure working environment “There is nothing wrong with the earlier generation of Wisenet cameras which we currently continue to use at most of the mental health units, but there is no doubt that the Wisenet X models are making it even easier for us to maintain a relaxed and secure working environment for our colleagues whilst keeping our patients safe,” added Mark Milliard. “Over the coming months we will continue our programme of updating the systems at other mental health units and in this respect, we have decided to continue to single source the cameras and recording devices from Hanwha Techwin.”

Five leading manufacturers specialising in secure technologies have teamed to provide safety and security at the 72nd Annual Little League Baseball World Series (LLBWS) for the players, coaches and fans. For the first time BriefCam and Ruckus Networks, an ARRIS Company are joining Axis Communications, Lenel and Milestone Systems to provide video surveillance systems, access control and network connectivity for the 10-day tournament. The five technology providers have come together to develop a comprehensive security strategy for the 16 Little League Baseball teams and worldwide fans participating in the World Series from August 16-26, 2018, in South Williamsport, Pa. The Little League International officials strive to promote a fun, exciting experience for players and fans, while ensuring the highest level of security during the games. BriefCam’s groundbreaking video content analytics platform detects, tracks, extracts and identifies people, objects, their attributes and behaviour from raw video feedsProviding safety and security to visitors “Each year, hundreds of thousands of people come out to Williamsport to enjoy their time at the Little League Baseball World Series,” said Jim Ferguson, Little League Assistant Director of Risk Management and Safety. “Along with the safety of all of 16 participating teams, our top priority during the Little League Baseball World Series is to provide a safe and secure facility for visitors from all over the world to enjoy. Thanks to these providers, we can continue to offer all of our fans, players, and volunteers a fun and safe location to create lifelong memories and exciting experiences during their visit.” BriefCam, one of the newest contributors, is providing the company’s latest video content analytics platform to this year’s Little League Baseball World Series state-of-the-art security solution. BriefCam’s groundbreaking video content analytics platform detects, tracks, extracts and identifies people, objects, their attributes and behaviour from raw video feeds. By presenting objects that have appeared at different times within the video simultaneously, BriefCam enables security operators to review hours of video in minutes.  Comprehensive video surveillance and analytics solution For the LLBWS, this means if children and parents are accidentally separated during the event, the security team will be well equipped to potentially locate and reunite related parties more quickly. Additionally, BriefCam’s solution can be used to optimise operations such as attendee and vehicle traffic flows to ensure a safe and positive guest experience. The company’s video content analytics platform aligns with Axis IP-based digital video surveillance cameras and Milestone’s XProtect video management software for a comprehensive video surveillance, management and analytics solution. The T300s—the Ruckus flagship outdoor APs—ensure top-notch performance for high-definition video over Wi-Fi, enabling every video stream to be captured “As this global event draws families from far and wide, it is important to further enable comprehensive safety, security and operational efficiencies,” said Stephanie Weagle, CMO, BriefCam. “Our technology will be on-hand to support the Little League in their endeavour to extract actionable intelligence from their video surveillance in the event that parents or family members need assistance in finding each other or streamlining operations to ensure that all involved have a great experience.” Top-notch performance for HD video over Wi-Fi Ruckus Networks, the second newest technology contributor, is providing a wireless mesh backhaul to deliver connectivity to both the scoreboards and surveillance cameras. Ruckus is deploying its T300 access points (APs), along with its SmartZone 100 management controller, to ensure seamless connectivity for the outdoor environment. The T300s—the Ruckus flagship outdoor APs—ensure top-notch performance for high-definition video over Wi-Fi, enabling every video stream to be captured. For the LLBWS, this capability allows all the video cameras in the stadium to be constantly streaming, ensuring maximum safety and security at all times. “In a digitally connected world, safety and security are critical elements that need to be part of every network,” said Bart Giordano, Vice President, Worldwide Business Development and Cloud, Ruckus Networks, an ARRIS company. “We are teaming with other companies to bring the most innovative security capabilities to the games so that every family can feel safer onsite. Our robust wireless technologies ensure every video stream is captured from all cameras, at all times, helping make this annual event fun and secure.” The 4K resolution provides four times as much detail as the standard HDTV 1080p resolution, improving the video quality significantly 4K resolution for improved video quality Axis Communications, the market leader in network video, has been a technology provider with Little League for nine years and is providing AXIS Q6128-E PTZ Network Camera, a compact, outdoor-ready PTZ dome, offering 4K resolution at 30 frames per second, 12x optical zoom and autofocus. The 4K resolution provides four times as much detail as the standard HDTV 1080p resolution, improving the video quality significantly. Both of these cameras will be integrated into the scoreboard in Lamade Stadium. "Each year we look forward to evolving the security system by leveraging the newest technology in the industry," said Robert Muehlbauer, Senior Manager, Business Development Partner Ecosystem, Axis Communications, Inc. "The total solution provides a comprehensive system to help keep players and fans safe so they can enjoy America’s favourite pastime, baseball. We are proud to collaborate with all of the companies involved and to continue our work with Little League Baseball.” OnGuard access control platform and XProtect VMS For the 20th consecutive year, Lenel, a provider of advanced security systems, will provide its OnGuard access control platform. Players, coaches, officials, staff and vendors are all enrolled in the system and receive a photo identification badge providing access to predetermined areas. The system is integrated with the Axis surveillance cameras so when someone presents a badge at one of the access card readers, live video and the cardholder’s photo are displayed on a nearby monitor, allowing a guard to authenticate the identification. Technology provider Milestone is providing XProtect Corporate video management software, which is installed along with a Milestone Husky M500A NVR as one of the recording servers Technology provider Milestone is providing XProtect Corporate video management software, which is installed along with a Milestone Husky M500A NVR as one of the recording servers. The XProtect Smart Client interface includes advancements in system performance by leveraging the processing power of NVIDIA GPU cards for measurable hardware acceleration, enabling more concurrent High Definition or Ultra HD video streams on high-resolution monitors. Easy access to video The LLBWS is also using the XProtect Smart Wall for viewing and sending pertinent video to monitors around the facilities, including a mobile command centre. BriefCam is embedded in the XProtect Smart Client with a dedicated screen tab for easy access to search hours of video in just minutes. “It’s truly inspiring to see the open platform community of partners coming together for this great international family event, ensuring safety through ongoing technology innovations,” said Jeremy Scott, Strategic Alliances Manager, Americas, Milestone Systems. “Every year brings new winners - on the field, in the stands and behind the scenes.”

Every summer, teams from around the world gather in South Williamsport, Pa., for one of baseball’s great classics – the annual Little League Baseball World Series. And for the 20th consecutive year, Lenel provides systems and services to help keep the iconic youth baseball event safe and secure for players, coaches, officials and fans. Lenel is part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. Teams from eight international and eight U.S. regions will play in the 10-day tournament, which begins today and ends with the championship game on Aug. 26. Samantha Mahaffey, security manager for Little League International, recognized Lenel’s continued dedication to the annual event for players ages 10 to 12. World-class security technology “We’ve long been able to count on Lenel to provide its world-class security technology to help us make sure these games are safe and secure for all our players, families, and fans,” she said. “It’s been great to work with Lenel over the years and embrace the changes and growth of the Little League Baseball World Series.” Jeff Stanek, general manager, Lenel, said helping to protect the Little League Baseball World Series is an honour for the company and its employees. “Little League and youth baseball are wonderful traditions bringing together young players and fans of all ages from countries around the globe,” he said. “We’re proud to be a part of this annual rite-of-summer event for 20 years, providing our technology and expertise to help make it the fun and safe event it should be.” OnGuard system is integrated with the complex’s video surveillance system and is used to verify people entering restricted areas Authenticate identification The heart of the security system is Lenel’s OnGuard access control platform. Each Little League player is enrolled in the system and receives a photo identification badge that’s worn to provide access to playing fields and to dining and dormitory facilities. Cards are also issued for all coaches, officials, staff and vendors. Each card limits access to only specific pre-determined areas throughout the complex. The OnGuard system is integrated with the complex’s video surveillance system and is used to verify people entering restricted areas. When someone presents a badge at one of the access card readers, live video and the cardholder’s photo are displayed on a nearby monitor, allowing a guard to authenticate the identification. Powerful analytic capabilities The OnGuard integrated security system has powerful analytic capabilities that can also help locate lost children, identify sick or injured people needing assistance and lost or suspicious articles that might pose a threat. The analytics can also help identify vehicles in restricted areas or other out-of-the-ordinary activities. Interlogix, Lenel’s sister company, is providing its UltraSync system to provide intrusion monitoring of the complex’s onsite police station.

3xLOGIC, Inc., a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, announced that Frederick Douglass High School (FDHS) has deployed a highly-successful video surveillance installation that helps ensure two points of alarm verification to sharply reduce false alarms. In the summer of 2017, Sonitrol of Lexington and Bates Security completed one of the companies’ most innovative installations. The project includes verified audio detection, verified video, and an advanced access control system. FDHS, located in Lexington, KY, comprises 350,000+ sq. ft. with over 90 staff and hundreds of students. The video surveillance system utilises 192 3xLOGIC HD and IP camera models with analytics software for verification and network health monitoring WDR HD and IP cameras for clear pictures The video surveillance system utilises 192 3xLOGIC HD and IP camera models with analytics software for verification and network health monitoring. Sixty cameras are deployed outside the building and 130+ are located inside throughout the facility. The system features wide dynamic range cameras that automatically adjust to environmental lighting and allow the end user to see clearly out of a sun-lit window or in pitch-black darkness. The cameras record to six 3xLOGIC V7300 servers. “Every door has a strike and motion detection, every lower level room has an audio sensor,” explained Sean Moberly, Sonitrol of Lexington Project Manager, who designed the system. “Every entry has a sensor and panic buttons, and we have Sonitrol access control for 12-15 doors. We concealed the door readers with built-in pockets, so the reader is not exposed but still effectively reads cards. We have video verification at every entry door.” Easily accessible security system Moberly continued, “School staff and Law Enforcement are extremely pleased with 3xLOGIC and the technology the company offers. They love the image clarity and the range of coverage it provides with the zoom feature. They appreciate the ability for easy access with cell phones and laptop computers and told us how user friendly the system is. Upon receiving an audio detection alarm at the central station, the Sonitrol operator also receives video footage for every camera connected to that alarm point “This technology allows the user to conduct faster, more efficient searches, and it enables staff to narrow searches to one area, such as a specific door, and find out quickly what you need to know. The school is so pleased they are considering migrating from their current VMS software to 3xLOGIC VIGIL. In fact, we’re talking to multiple schools who are interested in moving to VIGIL for their existing VMS.” Double verification with audio and video detection The installation features verified audio detection operating in conjunction with the verified video system. Upon receiving an audio detection alarm at the central station, the Sonitrol operator also receives video footage for every camera connected to that alarm point. This ensures double verification before alerting police dispatch and provides responding officers with up-to-the-minute intelligence on what they’ll face upon arriving at the high school. Law enforcement and the administration stated that they use it all the time to recover property from thefts or for situations where an item was lost or mislaid. FDHS administration reported that they once used the camera system to help figure out what staff propped a door open over one weekend so they could address the issue directly with that person. The ability for Sonitrol to monitor the system in real time helps ensure there will be fewer incidents of cameras and recorders being down for any length of time    VIGIL Central Management monitoring software Another unique and valuable service Sonitrol of Lexington provides the high school is 3xLOGIC’s VIGIL Central Management (VCM) or health-check monitoring software. Before the client is even aware, Sonitrol of Lexington can detect and repair camera failures, as well as server and hard drive issues without even going on site. The ability for Sonitrol to monitor the system in real time helps ensure there will be fewer incidents of cameras and recorders being down for any length of time. In the long term, VCM keeps the facility much safer and reduces repair costs. The system eliminates troublesome, costly false alarms with its two points of verification. The entire system can be conveniently managed by any device with internet access or via the 3xLOGIC mobile app, View Lite II. Bates Security and Sonitrol of Lexington recently received a SAMMY Installation of the Year award for this powerful, highly-effective security system.

We are living in the age of Big Data, and businesses are inundated with large volumes of data every day. Success depends on capturing, analysing and ultimately transforming that data into information and intelligence that can be used to improve the business. So, it is with today's physical access control and video systems, too, which also generate unprecedented levels of data. But how can we make the data useful to end users and how can they realise its full value? We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: Relating to physical security systems, what is the value of data and how can that value be measured?

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? 

Where does the time go? Before you know it, here we are at mid-year reflecting on an eventful first half of 2018 in the physical security market. It’s also a good time for our Expert Panel Roundtable to pause and look ahead at what we might expect in the second half of the year. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What technology development will have the greatest impact in the second half of 2018?