Video Encoders

Hanwha Techwin is now able to offer an even greater choice of cameras following on from the announcement that it has introduced three new ‘affordable’ Wisenet QVGA resolution thermal models. Unlike traditional cameras which rely on light to see images, thermal cameras pick up heat signatures of objects and are unaffected by extreme conditions, such as complete darkness, harsh weather, bright lights, fog and smoke. They also offer an effective solution for applications where there are concerns about light pollution. Recognising critical sounds “There was a time when thermal cameras had to be used sparingly as they were far too expensive to be deployed in large numbers,” said Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. “The introduction of our new keenly priced QVGA models means that the technology can now be utilised for virtually any application, and not just high budget, mission critical projects.” The three new vandal-resistant thermal cameras are able to capture images at up to 320 x 240 resolution The three new vandal-resistant thermal cameras, which are part of the Wisenet T series, are able to capture images at up to 320 x 240 resolution. As is the case with all latest generation Wisenet T series cameras, the new TNO-3010T, TNO-3020T and TNO-3030T QVGA Thermal cameras are equipped with audio analysis functionality which recognises critical sounds such as gunshots, explosions, screams and broken glass. Camera tampering detection Additional features include temperature change, shock, object/people detection, loitering and camera tampering detection. Built-in Gyro sensors offer accurate image stabilisation which comes into effect when a camera is disturbed by wind or vibrations, resulting in more stable images. Bi-directional audio, motion detection and handover to PTZ are also offered as standard, as is the ability to store up to 256GB of data via an SD/SDHC/SDXC memory slot to ensure video is automatically recorded in the event of network disruption. The cameras offer a choice of H.265, H.264 or MJPEG compression, as well as WiseStream II, 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 99% compared to current H.264 technology when WiseStream II is combined with H.265 compression. The three new Wisenet QVGA Thermal cameras are: Wisenet TNO-3010T: 2.7mm fixed lens. 0.3m minimum object distance Wisenet TNO-3020T: 4.7mm fixed lens. 1m minimum object distance Wisenet TNO-3030T: 13.7mm fixed lens. 8m minimum object distance

The new H.265 Wisenet XNB-H6461H Pinhole Height Strip camera from Hanwha Techwin offers users the opportunity to covertly capture an image of a person’s face, and when used in conjunction with another camera, establish the approximate height of the person. Ideal for banks, petrol stations, convenience stores and other retail type applications, the Wisenet IP network Pinhole Height Strip camera is able to support face recognition analytics and designed to be installed at an exit door. Positioned at eye level and looking in, it is able to capture clear frontal images of faces which can be recorded and used as evidence to prosecute anyone arrested for theft or fraudulent activity. IP network cameras The Pinhole Height Strip camera enables covert capturing of image of the culprit on their first visit to the store" “Loss prevention managers have told us that it is not unusual for a thief to ‘case out’ a store before attempting to steal anything,” said Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. He adds, “Having taken a close look at where the store’s video surveillance cameras are positioned, as well as the level of staffing, the thief then leaves the store only to return shortly afterwards with a cap or hat covering their face from the view of cameras which are normally installed on a ceiling looking down. The Pinhole Height Strip camera provides the opportunity to covertly capture a clear image of the culprit on their first visit to the store.” Wisenet XNB-H6461H Pinhole Height Strip camera The 2 MP Wisenet XNB-H6461H pinhole camera comes equipped with a 4.6mm fixed lens that provides a 73° field of view. It also benefits from enhanced Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), which performs at up to 120dB, to produce clear images from scenes containing a challenging mix of bright and dark areas. This is quite often the case at entry/exits points of a building and normally results in overexposed or underexposed images. In addition, built-in Highlight Compensation (HLC) technology solves the problem of overexposure created by the presence of strong light sources, such as from store spotlights. The camera’s Hallway View provides a highly effective way to monitor narrow vertical areas such as shopping aisles and corridors. This enables the Wisenet XNB-H6461H, which can generate images in the 9:16 and 3:4 aspect ratios, to work effectively in tall and narrow spaces, with the added bonus of minimising bandwidth and video storage requirements. Other features of Wisenet XNB-H6461H include: Audio analysis which recognises critical sounds such as raised voices, screams, broken glass, gunshots and explosions, and generates an alert to enable security personnel to quickly react to any incidents. A Dual MicroSD/SDHC/SDXC memory slot which allows video or data to be stored at the edge. Support for H.265, H.264 and MJPEG compression formats. WiseStream II, a complementary compression technology which improves bandwidth, efficiency by up to 99%, compared to current H.264 technology when combined with H.265 compression. Power over Ethernet (PoE) which negates the need to install a power supply and separate cabling for the camera. A USB port which helps reduce the time installers have to spend on site by enabling them to remotely check via Wi-Fi the Wisenet XNB-H6461H’s field of view and focus, from the convenience of a mobile device.

VuWall, global provider of video wall control and AV network management solutions, has announced an update to its flagship video wall control and collaboration platform, VuWall2. New enhancements to the powerful software solution include coloured borders and colour detection, support for the Milestone XProtect unified security platform, further integration with the IHSE Draco tera matrix, and extended KVM support of IP sources. VuWall2 solution "A control room must be a highly flexible environment where end users can monitor multiple streams of information efficiently and effectively in order to make critical decisions quickly and accurately," said Paul Vander Plaetse, CEO. New features enable unattended operator stations to remain under 24/7 surveillance He adds, "This update to VuWall2 is part of our commitment to ensure our customers work as optimally as possible. Each of these enhancements serves to make the integration and operation process seamless, which is key when there's an ever-increasing number of equipment, data streams, and sources needed to support real-time decision-making." Coloured borders for fire alarm and intrusion detection VuWall2 boosts operational awareness and productivity with new coloured borders around windows that are automatically triggered by events such as intrusion detection or fire alarms. The borders' width and colours are configurable and can even be enhanced with a flashing effect, increasing operator responsiveness. Furthering the platform's automation and awareness capabilities, the software also includes a colour-detection feature that triggers a new layout on the video wall after a colour change has occurred in a specific pixel location on a source computer running process-control applications. This enables unattended operator stations to remain under 24/7 surveillance. Customisable VuStation taskbar VuWall2 also introduces a customisable taskbar that facilitates common operations directly on a video wall, including opening and closing windows, launching layouts, and running preset commands. The new VuWall2 release includes upgraded support for its Milestone XProtect plug-in (Smart Client 2019 R1 and R2) In crisis situations where operators need to be able to visualise content ad hoc, the task bar allows them to display any content directly from the touch video wall or from the central keyboard and mouse of the video wall processor. By putting critical information at users' fingertips, it improves the productivity of control room operators. Milestone XProtect software support As part of the company's commitment to supporting third-party video management software solutions, the new VuWall2 release includes upgraded support for its Milestone XProtect plug-in (Smart Client 2019 R1 and R2). Originally released a year ago, VuWall's innovative Milestone plug-in enables security system builders to integrate VuScape processors into their ecosystem to simultaneously visualise all Milestone streams along with other sources on the video wall. The plug-in also allows security operators to manage the video wall directly from the Milestone interface. This builds upon VuWall's effort to offer customers a comprehensive and elegant approach to security and surveillance, which also includes a complete integrated solution with Genetec Security Center. Full KVM control VuStream content can be controlled from anywhere on the network The new VuWall2 software release features additional support for IHSE's Draco tera matrix switch. VuWall released its first integration with IHSE in April 2019, which made it possible for users to control and visualise all matrix sources on a video wall. In addition to intuitively routing the IHSE inputs directly to the video wall, operators now have the capability of routing the related USB feeds, bringing full KVM control to the video wall. Further expanding the platform's KVM capabilities, VuWall2 now facilitates the control of IP sources, namely VuStream low-latency 4K HDMI encoders. VuWall2 previously allowed HDMI sources to be controlled on a video wall using the VuWall KM Module. Future-proofing video wall processing Now with full KVM functionality, VuStream content can be controlled from anywhere on the network via a video wall or personal video wall controller. This additional KVM capability increases the platform's flexibility, accommodating the evolution from AV to IP and future-proofing video wall processing.

At GSX 2019, in booth 251, Hanwha Techwin America, a global supplier of IP and analog video surveillance solutions, will announce availability in September for Wisenet WAVE 4.0, the next version of their VMS (Video Management System) designed to support the advanced features and license-free onboard video analytics that are unique to Hanwha cameras. Wisenet WAVE 4.0 VMS Available from Hanwha’s network of authorised distributors, Wisenet WAVE 4.0 is ideally suited to meet the needs of customers looking for a reasonably priced and easy to use end-to-end video surveillance solution. WAVE gives users the ability to create tailored layouts for the way they want to use their Wisenet video surveillance solutions on any device. Wisenet WAVE VMS has been very successful for customers looking for a flexible solution that is reliable and simple" “Wisenet WAVE VMS has been very successful for customers looking for a flexible solution that is reliable, simple and lightweight. With Wisenet WAVE 4.0, we have continued to develop features and functionality our customers are asking for while also building for the future,” said Ray Cooke, Vice President - Products, Solutions, and Integration at Hanwha Techwin America. Unified API Communication with WAVE is via Hanwha’s native unified API for maximum compatibility and efficiency. New analytics support includes: Queue Management (Queue-meter) – for retail queue management. Users can set up to three rectangular regions to monitor three lines. If a queue gets backed up, an event can be triggered to alert the end-user to assess and take action. Shock Detection – Introduced in the Wisenet X series PLUS line of cameras, gyro sensors can detect when a camera is shaking or enduring physical shock. This can trigger an alarm or custom event in WAVE 4.0. Temperature change detection from thermal cameras – When working with the recently released Wisenet thermal cameras, change in temperature above or below a threshold can trigger an alarm in WAVE. Remote access For remote access, a new WAVE mobile app version 19.3 features smart motion search from within the mobile client For remote access, a new WAVE mobile app version 19.3 features smart motion search from within the mobile client. Users simply press and drag on a region from within the camera’s field of view and motion slices pop up in the timeline showing any motion that occurred within that region within any time period. In WAVE 4.0, the system architecture has been revamped to ensure every moment is captured and recorded with minimum downtime while providing increased scalability. The previous 50 server limit has been doubled to support up to 100 servers in a unified site (each server can support 128 camera streams). Multi-server failover is built into the software and ready to be activated with only a few clicks, and without requiring any extra failover licenses. Additional highlighted features in WAVE 4.0: Improved support for Wisenet Q series NVRs with integrated PoE Improved PTZ support and functionality on NVRs and SPE encoders Encrypted video and HTTPS communications provide the ability to force the system to use HTTPS and to encrypt video traffic When using WAVE Sync, users can easily merge systems over the internet that are registered to the same user account Metadata SDK A metadata SDK allows for the integration of object metadata (coordinates, tags) Additionally, a metadata SDK allows for the integration of object metadata (coordinates, tags) generated by third party computer vision applications. This allows for the integration of several functions including the ability to overlay bounding boxes and object paths within video tiles, as well as integrate custom actions and events. Wisenet WAVE supports all major operating systems including Microsoft Windows and Linux Ubuntu for server application; Microsoft Windows, Linux Ubuntu and Apple MacOS for the client application; and Apple iOS and Google Android for the mobile application and web clients. Hanwha also includes an API package accessible by developers directly within the server application enabling easy third party integration with Wisenet WAVE. Software integration “Small and medium businesses range from one or more large sites, to several campuses or a small chain of sites. These organisations, and their public sector counterparts, demand end-to-end simplicity that is friendly to their budget upfront, and for the long term,” said Cooke. “Wave 4.0 provides just that, with features and solutions for these environments as their needs expand.”

Pelco, Inc., a provider of intelligent video surveillance solutions, releases the Sarix Professional (Pro) Series 3 Fixed IP cameras. Offered in mini-dome, bullet, box, and wedge configurations, these IP cameras deliver a balanced set of features and performance at affordable price points that allow for deployment across a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications, including low light and wide dynamic range capabilities with options of 1MP, 2MP, 3MP, and 5MP resolutions. Bi-directional audio communication Sarix Pro 3 cameras are ideal for industries such as commercial, government, healthcare, and education that demand a robust set of features, superior performance, and image clarity in an easily installed and maintained camera system. The Sarix Pro 3 Series delivers cost-savings with less bandwidth and storage requirements" “The Sarix Pro 3 IP Camera Series solves real security video challenges in a broad range of industries by providing more security detail in challenging scenes with excellent low light and wide dynamic range performance,” said Kevin Saldanha, Principal Product Manager. “In Healthcare and Education verticals, where vandalism and bi-directional audio communication is required, this camera series has models with IK10 vandal resistance and built-in microphones that can meet those requirements seamlessly. For Commercial industry-related needs that require several hundreds to thousands of high-resolution cameras with 24/7 monitoring on a limited budget, the Sarix Pro 3 Series delivers cost-savings with less bandwidth and storage requirements supported by h.265 video encoding and Pelco Smart Compression,” he concluded. Video compression standard Sarix Pro 3 IP camera series offers these key features: Clear detail in low light conditions with Up to 120dB True Wide Dynamic Range: These cameras can bring out detail in both very bright and dark areas to maximise visibility and are especially useful in environments that have both dark and light areas in one scene, such as entrances. Adaptive IR Illumination (Up to 50m for dome cameras and up to 80m for bullet cameras): With capabilities that produce detailed images in zero light, the adaptive IR Illuminator avoids overexposure that can hinder detection as objects approach the camera. One camera can provide wide, yet detailed coverage with resolutions up to 5MP at 30 FPS. This level of clarity allows customers to view license plate numbers and faces. Capture fast moving objects in Traffic, Gaming, Banking, and Commercial industries: 5MP camera models can stream 60 FPS for up to 4MP resolution. Conserve/minimise bandwidth and storage costs via h.265, the highest video compression standard, and Pelco smart compression technology. Flexible recording and viewing of video with three streams and optimised streams to save on costs. All three independent streams are configurable with video encoding (H.265/H.264/MJEPG), resolution, and frame rate. Enhanced detection and faster response ability by way of bi-directional audio with audio line-in and line-out. A built-in microphone is also included in the indoor dome camera. Flexible deployment in challenging environments with IK10, IP66, and IP67 ratings and a wide operating temperature. The cameras’ housings are built using metal construction and select camera models are ideal for areas prone to tampering and vandalism, like correctional facilities, hospitals, and schools. IP66 and IP67-rated models are available for water and dust protection, while environmental models can operate in extreme temperature environments (between –40° to 60°C). Faster, easier, and lower-cost installation with a single-wire PoE connection. 24VAC and 12VDC power options are also available for flexibility in installation. Integrated and industry standard compliant. These cameras work with VideoXpert on both H.264/H.265 and with Endura and Digital Sentry along with VxToolbox. They are also ONVIF Profile S, G, Q, and T compliant and work with well with third-party video management systems that conform to these ONVIF Profiles. Sarix Pro Series 3 cameras are available to be ordered now. Dome and bullet models ship in August, box cameras ship in September, and wedge models ship in October.

The Dallmeier 5000 series single sensor cameras are equipped with a new encoder technology. The new versions of the dome, IR and fisheye cameras support H.265 HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) and offer improved object classification with camera-based, AI-enhanced Video Content Analysis (VCA). H.265 compression By its nature, the constantly improving resolution of video images demands high bandwidths and large amounts of memory. With the new generation H.265 encoder in the Dallmeier cameras, data rate can be reduced by up to 50% compared with an H.264 stream without sacrificing resolution or image quality. When used in conjunction with the latest Dallmeier recording systems, a significant reduction in network and memory capacity can be achieved. Another advantage of the new 5000 series cameras is the new generation of Video Content Analysis (VCA) Another advantage of the new 5000 series cameras is the new generation of Video Content Analysis (VCA). Neural networks are implemented in the camera, supporting the classic VCA and thus enabling significantly more efficient object classification in the camera itself. After a short learning phase, the system is capable of delivering still more precisely defined analysis of the recordings and more effective use of automatic video analysis functions such as lossless and multiple auto tracking. Dallmeier Camera Series 5000 The camera models DDF5250HDV-DN and DDF5450HDV-DN (dome), DF5250HDV-DN/IR and DF5450HDV-DN/IR (box IR) and SDF5450HD-DN (fisheye) can be ordered now and will be ready for delivery from 19 August 2019 onwards.

The role of storage in video surveillance systems has  evolved, from a means of preserving evidence to an evidence search tool, and soon as the main data repository for predictive analytics. Old analogue systems are now being replaced with massive multi-camera IT systems. Necessary storage volumes keep growing as video resolutions increase. 1K, 4K, and 8K megapixel cameras require such gigantic storage space that network video recorders (NVRs) can hardly handle more than a handful of them simultaneously. This Quantum white paper explains how you can efficiently circumvent this situation, showing a progressive migration path from current state-of-the-art IP video solutions, up to tomorrow’s storage-centric architectures. What's Inside? Typical VMS architectures Issues with NVRs Uses of video analytics and its impact on storage The benefits of multi-tier storage The future of video recording   Click Here to Download the White Paper Now!

Gaps in video from dropped video frames are a common problem. A web search on the phrase “dropped video frames” turns up links oriented towards gamers, YouTube videographers and even the world of video surveillance, discussing why frame drops happen and providing advice for coping with them. On Windows computers, video frame drops are a fact of life. Much of the advice can help reduce the number of frame drops, though never completely eliminate them. If you are an amateur filmmaker, and you drop key video frames, you can always do another “take.” Not so in the 24/7 world of security surveillance. You never know which few seconds of video might be critical in determining what really happened, who was really there and who could be held liable.General use IT products like a Windows computer are architected to be event-driven and time-shared Causes of video frame drops in surveillance systems To begin to address this problem, it’s important to have a better understanding of the major causes of video frame drops in a video surveillance system. Many video surveillance systems stream the output from the video cameras over a network to an off-the-shelf computer such as a Windows machine, which acts as the video server and runs your Video Management Software (VMS). The video server stores all the video files to racks of disk drives (disk drives being an affordable choice for the large amount of storage needed in a multi-camera system). Let’s focus on these major sources of video frame drops: Video servers dropping incoming video frames when various system tasks compete for resources Disk heads in your disk drives that can’t write the incoming video files fast enough to keep up with the continuous stream of data Many integrators who use off-the-shelf Windows computers will ensure the computer is dedicated to being the video server Video processing overload General IT products like a Windows computer are architected to be event-driven and time-shared. They strive for fairness and are designed to share the processing capacity so that no single task is starved. Instead, all tasks get a smaller proportion of processing capacity. This means new events, like a keystroke or automatic start of a common “background” task or system service, can interrupt and delay ongoing tasks like the handling of your incoming video streams. In the networked world, that is usually a good choice, since the network protocols will recover by resending the data and the latency that adds is not a problem. This does not work with video. Your cameras are continuing to send new video, so even if you could resend, this would simply bog down the computer still further and cause even more frames to drop. If the CPU, memory or disk handling required by both the new event and your ongoing video processing exceeds the capacity of the computer, its default way of dealing with the overload is to drop data coming in over its network connections. Disk drives are optimised for reading and writing data quickly, generally in a variety of block sizes depending on what is being stored Dropped video frame testing Recently, we started monitoring and testing for dropped video frames on off-the-shelf Windows video servers. In our tests, just clicking on a Windows disk management command resulted in almost 4,000 frames being dropped, an 8-second gap in the video record – and as we all know, a lot can happen in 8 seconds. Even we were surprised by how often and how consistently frames were dropped, coinciding with various demands on the servers from things like background tasks. Almost always, these drops happened as a cluster, multiple seconds of contiguous video simply gone, a much more serious issue than dropping a few random frames here or there.The best solution is to use a machine and operating system that are optimised to be part of a video surveillance system Many integrators who use off-the-shelf Windows computers will ensure the computer is dedicated to being the video server, and they will try to tweak the Windows operating system to reduce the number of background tasks, like removing any third-party antivirus programs or performance programs. This reduces the number of video frame drops but does not come close to eliminating all of them. Video surveillance system solution The best solution is to use a machine and operating system that are optimised to be part of a video surveillance system, designed to funnel resources as needed to handling the incoming video streams versus attempting to share resources evenly across all tasks or dropping incoming video data when the system is overloaded. By giving priority to the incoming video data and being sized correctly for the number and type of cameras, these systems are much more robust and less prone to dropping frames. Optimising storage for surveillance The previous sections looked at how video frames get dropped before your VMS even sees them. However, frames can go missing on the other side of the system when the storage system cannot keep up with the incoming video data. Most systems use some form of disk storage; because to store all the video from multiple cameras running 24/7 can require a massive amount of storage – frequently into the terabytes – and disk storage is still affordable on this scale. Disk drives are optimised for reading and writing data quickly, generally in a variety of block sizes depending on what is being stored. If you think about a database, various data records are written once, read many times as people look up data and modified (written again). Storing the video output from multiple cameras breaks this model in several ways: The block sizes for video data are larger than typical data files The blocks are written once and very seldom read, so it is very write-intensive New files from multiple cameras are continuously coming in to be writtenWhen you need high performance and reliability from a system that faces heavy demands, off-the-shelf may simply not be good enough Avoid missing key video All these factors keep the disk head extremely busy and lead to longer seek times. Essentially, the disk head cannot write fast enough and cannot keep up with the incoming stream of video data to be stored. The result is that some video frames get dropped. By using disk systems that are optimised for video storage, you can improve your odds. Solutions that improve head seek time, consolidate multiple video files into one file to reduce the number of writes needed and find other ways for the disk head to work more efficiently can greatly reduce the chances that frames might be dropped. The off-the-shelf components that are frequently used for video surveillance systems are general purpose machines that do a decent job of supporting a small system with a minimal number of cameras. However, even in a small system with only 3 to 4 cameras, our testing has shown that video frame drop is a given, due partly to Windows’ bias to share resources among tasks and default to dropping incoming data/video streams when busy, and partly to off-the-shelf disk drives that cannot keep up with the write-intensive nature of storing video feeds. These issues are due to the size and nature of video files, but are not unique to surveillance systems. In the film industry, they too use custom machines as their video servers to handle incoming streams from their digital cameras and store those streams to custom storage hardware. When you need high performance and reliability from a system that faces heavy demands, off-the-shelf – though less expensive initially – may simply not be good enough. Only you can determine how much tolerance you have to the risk of missing key video sequences, and whether your potential liability and the risk of lawsuits is increased beyond an acceptable measure by a surveillance system that captures less than 100% of the action.

Over the last year, we have continued to see the rise of manufacturers from China in the mid- to low-end market for video surveillance - a trend that currently shows no signs of tapering. Additionally, the shift from analogue to IP systems has remained consistent, with end users increasingly looking to network-enabled devices to mitigate risk from both a physical and cyber perspective. Complex network attacks in 2016 demonstrated the need for increased network security for network-connected devices such as IP cameras and network video recorders. More and more manufacturers are considering the potential for such attacks when designing updates for existing hardware and software technology, strengthening password requirements, incorporating robust data encryption, and educating integrators and end users on how to put protocols in place to protect the valuable information being collected. Increased security collaborations Today’s surveillance technology - and the new innovations right around the corner - incorporates more IT protocols in response to high-profile cyber incidents. As a result, IT standards will finally start being adopted by security system manufacturers over the course of the next few years. At the same time, we'll see increased collaboration between IT and security leaders within enterprises. Intelligent, big data analysis Video technologies such as panoramic 360-degree cameras with advanced dewarping capabilities are being rapidly adopted, along with video analytics software that enables the extraction of data for business intelligence, apart from just security video. The future includes more widespread availability of cloud technologies and services. In 2017, we can look forward to the more widespread adoption of intelligent analytics and big data analysis, which has the potential to streamline processes and optimise sales operations for organisations to drive new levels of business intelligence. See the full coverage of 2016/2017 Review and Forecast articles here Save

Arecont Vision is a company in transition to say the least. With its balance sheet burdened with debt, the company is seeking Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and simultaneously being acquired by a private equity firm. The ‘new’ Arecont Vision that will emerge after several months when the process is complete will have a new owner, a clean balance sheet, and be poised to succeed in the competitive world of video surveillance, says Raul Calderon, Arecont Vision CEO and General Manager.Good companies go through restructuring, and the company will be better off after doing it. We will be able to lead” Ensuring business continuity An asset purchase agreement announced this week with an affiliate of Turnspire Capital Partners LLC involves the private equity firm acquiring Arecont Vision’s assets. To eliminate the debt, the company has initiated proceedings under Chapter 11 of the United State Bankruptcy Code in the District of Delaware. “We want the industry to know that we are restructuring our business and our financing,” says Calderon. “We are not going out of business. It is a financial restructuring more than anything.” Business will continue uninterrupted during the bankruptcy, he says, with debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing provided by Arecont Vision’s current secured lenders. Turnspire, as the ‘stalking-horse bidder’, sets the low-end bidding bar and guarantees the company will have new ownership at the conclusion of the process “Good companies go through restructuring, and the company will be better off after doing it,” Calderon adds. “We will be able to lead and innovate, to be stronger, better and faster once we finish.” For perspective, it is interesting to note that, in the broader business world, some well-known companies have emerged from Chapter 11 even stronger, such as Delta and American Airlines and General Motors. Investment in product development Previously Arecont Vision has been burdened by the costs of $80 million in debt the owners took on in 2014. The burden of that debt has limited the company’s flexibility to react to the more competitive industry landscape, and to implement strategies to reverse softening sales numbers in the last couple of years. “We couldn’t use the money in the company because we were servicing the debt,” says Calderon. “In order to be compliant with the enormous debt service, we made decisions to reduce head count and expenses.” “[The bankruptcy] will free up that money to invest in the organisation,” he adds. “We will be able to make decisions for our future rather than the past, including investments in product development.” Focus and investment will be on key functions such as engineering, product development and sales Although there is an asset purchase agreement in place with Turnspire, there will also be an auction that could result in a higher bidder. Turnspire, as the ‘stalking-horse bidder’, sets the low-end bidding bar and guarantees the company will have new ownership at the conclusion of the process, either Turnspire or a company that outbids their offer. [UPDATE: An additional bid received from Costar Technologies and Costar Video Systems ensures that an auction will be held on July 9, 2018.] Calderon says Turnspire “shares our vision and will ensure an exciting future for the company.” The transaction is expected to move fast and close within a couple of months.Arecont Vision expects to continue to compete based on technology differentiation in the market, rather than on price Maintaining technology differentiation-based competition Turnspire Capital Partners is a private equity investor that is a ‘turnaround specialist’. Their website describes their role as targeting “high-quality businesses that have reached strategic, operational or financial inflection points and stand to benefit from [a] hands-on, operationally focused approach.” Calderon says Arecont Vision’s investment banker, Imperial Capital, was instrumental in bringing Turnspire to the table. The Turnspire purchase agreement proposes that the new owner retain the majority of employees, and the overall function and motivation of the company will remain. New levels of outsourcing, new software tools, or other strategies may be implemented to increase efficiency of operations. Focus (and investment) are likely to centre on key functions such as engineering, product development and sales. After the acquisition and bankruptcy are completed – in the next several months – Arecont Vision expects to continue to compete based on technology differentiation in the market, rather than on price, says Calderon. Business as usual Customers and partners see it as a positive step, and they understand that getting rid of the debt burden can only be positive” Calderon declined to be more specific about future plans for the company under the new ownership, who will ultimately decide what those plans are. He did reiterate Arecont Vision’s past successes and expected continuing role in the market. “We are looking to provide the leadership and the type of solution we are known for providing,” he says. “We have come out with some innovative things historically, from megapixel cameras to the first H.264 cameras to the first omni-directional cameras. We have not stopped our innovation, and our intent is to lead the market again with innovative solutions. Another key is to do right by our customers today and in the future, improving customer service, providing better offerings to our customers – that’s what we will be looking to do.” “I’ve had a lot of conversations with customers and partners in the last couple of days,” Calderon says. “I can say the conversations have been encouraging. They see it as a positive step, and they understand that getting rid of the debt burden can only be positive. Customers and partners have offered help, and we’re still closing deals. It’s business as usual.” He noted the company is seeking transparency throughout the process and wants to ‘get in front of’ the information flow, rather than allowing others to drive the narrative.

In a significant move for the video security market, BCDVideo has announced that it is set to become Dell EMC’s OEM partner in the video surveillance space. For nearly a decade, the Chicago-based company has been known as a key OEM partner of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), providing storage and networking technology to security integrators on a global scale. This latest partnership will allow BCDVideo to take their offerings to the next level. BCDVideo Vice President Tom Larson spoke to SourceSecurity.com to discuss the reasoning behind the deal, and how the programme will benefit partners, integrators, and end-users alike. Expanding BCDVideo's product offering For BCDVideo, the HPE OEM programme has been widely acknowledged as a success, allowing the company to leverage a globally recognised brand and provide high-quality, reliable solutions across video networking and access control. Nevertheless, explains Larson, HPE server solutions are primarily suited to large-scale enterprise projects, and are therefore unable to accommodate for the growth in small- and medium-sized surveillance applications. The global collaboration with Dell EMC will allow BCDVideo to open up a broader product offering, building on success in the larger enterprise market to offer tailored solutions to SMEs. Our aim is to look at all best of breed technology to serve the video surveillance marketplace, and that means multiple partnerships” Support for integrators By leveraging Dell EMC’s sophisticated digital storage platforms, BCDVideo will now be able to offer a more cost-effective solution to integrators, without sacrificing the resilience and IT-level service that BCDVideo is known for. With access to Dell EMC’s expansive global sales and technical teams, the company hopes to expand its reach, all-the-while providing partners with around-the-clock technical support and a five-year on-site warranty. Customers should be reassured that BCDVideo will continue to offer HPE platforms, service, and support. “Our aim is to look at all best-of-breed technology to serve the video surveillance marketplace, and that means multiple partnerships,” says Larson.  “The addition of Dell EMC to our portfolio is a major win for BCDVideo, for Dell EMC, and for our integrators.” The global collaboration with Dell EMC will allow BCDVideo to open up a broader product offering Meeting surveillance market demands At the technology level, assures Larson, Dell EMC’s server offering is well suited to handle the increasing video resolution and growing camera count demanded by the surveillance industry. At the larger end of the spectrum, the company’s Isilon Scale-Out NAS solution can handle tens of petabytes of data, making it ideal for large-scale security applications such as city-wide surveillance and airport security. Dell EMC storage solutions are already proving successful at major international airports including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, each with a camera count in the 1000s.Dell EMC and BCDVideo together are ensuring our customers get the right solutions designed for the surveillance market” For Dell EMC, the new partnership means the ability to expand on this success in the enterprise market, leveraging BCDVideo’s surveillance expertise and high-level customer service to offer tailored solutions for lower-volume applications. Since its inception, BCDVideo has differentiated itself in the security space by providing a high level of IT service to integrators making the transition to IP systems. By combining resources, the partners will be able to service VMS and analytics companies, software vendors, and access control providers, as well as traditional business integrators. Ken Mills, General Manager Dell EMC Surveillance, explains: “Surveillance storage is not just about capacity, it is also about performance and reliability. Dell EMC and BCDVideo together are ensuring our customers get the right solutions designed for the surveillance market.” Accomodating for growth BCDVideo is well placed to accommodate this anticipated growth. Last year, the company opened a new 51,000-square-foot global headquarters in Illinois, home to 90 separate stations within their Innovation Center where each system is customised according to integrator needs. The new facility allows for expanding business with new and existing partners in the security market.

Axis Communications, the global provider of intelligent surveillance technology, yesterday held the official launch of the new Axis Experience Centre in Luton. The event was a chance for Axis’ partners to meet with the senior management team and explore how the new centre operates, all the while celebrating the company’s 20th anniversary over a glass of champagne. The centre was officially opened by Axis Communications co-founder Martin Gren, along with Bodil Sonesson, the company’s VP of Global Sales. The toast was led by Atul Rajput, Regional Director, Northern Europe. As one of Axis’ first ever employees, Rajput was particularly well placed to thank partners for their collaboration over the last twenty years. As celebrations continued, SourceSecurity.com was lucky enough to join Axis’ partners in a tour of the new facility. Exploring the Axis Experience Centre What immediately became apparent was that this was no ordinary showroom. In contrast to open-space demonstration rooms traditionally favoured by the security industry, the Experience Centre takes end users on a flowing tour where they can experience Axis solutions in a variety of environments simulating real-world problems. The tour typically takes two hours, and is designed for small groups of people to allow in-depth discussion of the difficulties end users are facing. Atul Rajput (Regional Director, Northern Europe), Bodil Sonesson (VP, Global Sales) & Axis Communications co-founder Martin Gren officially open the Experience Centre Axis open platform solutions One highlight of the experience is the AXIS Camera Application Platform (ACAP), which allows partners to solve specific customer problems by downloading third-party applications to Axis IP cameras and encoders. Typical end user problems highlighted by the tour include queue management, people counting and intrusion detection. The solutions are all fully interactive – on passing through a gateway, an audio alert notifies participants that they are trespassing, while three participants standing in a given space can trigger air conditioning and ambient audio. The most immersive part of the experience is the ‘dark room’, which simulates all kinds of challenging lighting conditions including the intense backlight that may be experienced at a building entrance or window. On leaving the room, participants are shown how Axis’ WDR cameras capture extremely detailed images despite the challenging illumination. Other highlights include the networking centre, which demonstrates Axis hardware and third-party switches, and the VMS control room, which features a new user interface and can be integrated with intercoms, speakers, and access control systems. Smart solutions for businesses and cities The overriding theme of all areas of the tour is the emphasis on applications, not products. Rather than being directed to a particular product to suit a given vertical market, end users and installers are encouraged to discuss the real-world challenges they face, and explore how Axis solutions could work for them. In this way, enterprises, small-to-medium businesses and Smart City providers can all be catered for. The concept is already proving successful – over the last month, the facility has been in use every day!

Protecting assets and people has always been a top priority for Kirkland’s, a global home décor retailer. With over 400 stores in 37 states, Kirkland’s is a go-to spot for a broad selection of distinctive merchandise: art, mirrors, candles, lamps, frames, accent rugs, furniture and more. When they evaluated their security solutions in 2016, they determined they needed to upgrade the analogue video surveillance systems in use at their existing locations and plan for new stores. Analogue video surveillance cameras Management wanted a camera that provided a clear picture, while minimising bandwidth usage Saraya Charlton, Kirkland’s Loss Prevention Investigator, said the analogue video surveillance cameras they had in place were acceptable, but they desired cameras with wider coverage and better resolution. The department was also frustrated with the amount of time it took to investigate incidents for loss prevention and personal injury claims. Each time they were called to investigate an incident – vandalism, theft, employee misconduct, a slip and fall, or a cut from broken merchandise – each individual store had to extract the footage from the analogue DVR at that location and send it to loss prevention at Kirkland’s headquarters. Charlton said Kirkland’s sought an IP-based solution that could be accessed remotely, that would make the loss prevention investigation process more efficient and would provide additional benefits. Management wanted a camera that provided a clear picture, while minimising bandwidth usage and had analytics capability. IP video surveillance solution Working with several systems integrators, Kirkland’s chose to deploy an IP video surveillance solution consisting of Hanwha video surveillance cameras managed by Salient enterprise Video Management Software (VMS). The first phase of the security upgrade has included the deployment of 1,800 Hanwha Wisenet X series XNV-6011 2 megapixel HD dome cameras and Wisenet Lite vandal-resistant dome cameras at 200 Kirkland’s locations, as well as the distribution centre and the e-commerce building. As new stores are built by this growing retailer, they will also include the Hanwha-Salient security solution. They expect to have a full migration to IP at all locations by 2021. Kirkland’s chose to deploy an IP video surveillance solution consisting of Hanwha video surveillance cameras managed by Salient enterprise VMS Perfect fit for the retail environment The wide-angle 2.8 mm lens captures a 112-degree horizontal field of view, for a retailer that means doing more with less Each Kirkland’s location is outfitted with approximately eight cameras that are positioned to capture the entrance, the sales floor and the back of house operations. Charlton said Hanwha’s cameras provide the most comprehensive view of the store possible. “The wide-angle capability – as well as the quality of the camera – is really what sold us on Hanwha,” said Charlton. “We are getting the best views possible and they are allowing us to see the entire sales floor which is exactly what we wanted and needed.” Hanwha’s Wisenet X series of cameras is a perfect fit for the retail environment. The wide-angle 2.8 mm lens captures a 112-degree horizontal field of view, for a retailer that means doing more with less. Pulling recorded video Charlton said the Hanwha cameras are particularly useful at store entrances because, thanks to the WDR feature, video images are not affected by the bright sunlight that often shines through the windows and they can still see faces clearly. And because many of Hanwha’s cameras offer license free analytics, Kirkland’s will begin exploring that capability in the future to gain information on people counting, heat mapping and dwell time. They also appreciate being able to use Hanwha’s Device Manager to troubleshoot The Hanwha-Salient solution has improved Kirkland’s loss prevention investigation efficiency since the team is able to pull recorded video from any camera via the Salient VMS rather than wait for information to be extracted from an analogue DVR. They also appreciate being able to use Hanwha’s Device Manager to troubleshoot and resolve any camera issues remotely first rather than unnecessarily sending out a service technician. Video surveillance and security bandwidth In addition to offering quality images, improved field of view and more efficient operations, the Hanwha solution has also helped Kirkland’s conserve valuable bandwidth with Hanwha WiseStream II compression technology, said Charlton. WiseStream II dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement of the image. Combined with H.265 compression, bandwidth efficiency can be improved by up to 75 percent compared to current H.264 technology. “We share our video surveillance and security bandwidth with our Point of Sale system and we don’t ever want to take away from the bandwidth of POS transactions or impact the speed at which they go through,” said Charlton. “Hanwha’s Wisestream compression technology fits our business model and along with Salient helps preserve and efficiently manage bandwidth. It’s really helpful to have a camera that’s smart enough to be able to tweak and regulate itself.”

Since 1964 the Central Bank of Jordan has played a crucial role distributing currency, maintaining national reserves of gold and foreign currencies, supporting economic development and ensuring the stability of the country’s financial system. For the bank, maintaining the most robust, up-to-date standards of security is not just mission critical, it’s a matter of national importance. IDIS technology is now trusted to provide full video protection. IDIS Solution Suite video management software (VMS) is at the heart of the Central Bank’s new video system, with the first phase encompassing 425-plus cameras upgrading its headquarters and protecting three branches. Cost-efficient remote firmware updates The 8300 series also benefits from the industry’s lowest hard disk drive (HDD) failure rate IDIS Solution Suite’s hybrid capability not only enabled seamless switchover from the bank’s legacy analogue cameras, it is easier to operate than competitive systems and will allow cost-efficient remote firmware updates and system maintenance. Ametrad implemented powerful IDIS DR-8364D 64-channel NVRs, with a super-fast 900Mbps throughput to ensure high performance and simultaneous live view and playback with no degradation of image quality or latency. The 8300 series also benefits from the industry’s lowest hard disk drive (HDD) failure rate, while supporting RAID 1, 5 and 10 and uses IDIS’s iBank file structure to deliver an unprecedented level of resilience. Multi-layered protection against video data loss The NVRs also offer the advantage of flexible H.265 and H.264 dual codec performance allowing the Central Bank to reap the benefits of high-definition H.265 recording, while viewing in H.264. IDIS Intelligent Codec offers further storage and bandwidth savings of up to 90% when combined with Motion Adaptive Transmission (MAT). IDIS Solution Suite further optimises network bandwidth through dynamic multi-stream control IDIS Solution Suite further optimises network bandwidth through dynamic multi-stream control by detecting overloads to prevent network strain. And, importantly, it improves the control room operator’s quality of experience in the face of varying network bandwidth. IDIS Critical Failover technology provides multi-layered protection against video data loss due to a wide range of potential fault conditions, such as network instability or power failure. Improving maintenance standards This ensures that recordings are automatically updated without the need for engineer callouts and with no risk of gaps in recordings. Testing at project handover confirmed that the Failover metrics fully met the client’s expectations. The IDIS solution was also selected because of its IDIS Ultimate Warranty, and ease of future expansion with guaranteed forward and backward combability. Security directors at the Central Bank wanted to replace their existing video system with the best new generation and futureproof solution that would deliver simultaneously high performance live view and recording. The bank identified the need to improve maintenance standards, eradicate system failures and ensure a low total cost of ownership. They also wanted to mitigate against video data loss, protect against cyber threats, and have a solution that would be easier for operators to use, with faster footage search and retrieval. Mission-critical projects Integrator Ametrad Technology Services won a hard-fought tender process against top competitors The control room at the bank’s headquarters needed a complete upgrade with the ability to centrally manage and control surveillance across all its branches. It was essential for the entire project to be delivered with minimum disruption that ensured no loss of video coverage during the phased implementation. Following a competitive proof of concept demonstration with the latest IDIS technology, integrator Ametrad Technology Services won a hard-fought tender process against top competitors, including the long-established previous contract holder. The successful partnership between Ametrad Technology Services and IDIS resulted in efficient project delivery, on time as promised, and has put the two companies a lead position for other mission-critical projects across the Levant region. Password breaches and cyber security loopholes In operation the bank’s new system has lower bandwidth requirements and faster recording retrieval time, making the security operation both more effective and more economical. The bank’s central monitoring team can now work more efficiently, with their new IDIS VMS providing event forwarding, acknowledgements, notifications, live pop-ups and other valuable functions. IDIS’s true plug-and-play technology is also less vulnerable to password breaches and cyber security loopholes, as installation engineers don’t need to manage IP addresses or manually enter passwords for each device. And IDIS’s Linux based servers and proprietary protocols ensure the highest level of resistance to hacking. Highest standard of video surveillance As the system expands FEN will act as force multiplier by reducing installation costs IDIS’s For Every Network (FEN) capability, which uses peer-to-peer technology, also allowed Ametrad engineers to quickly name each branch and connect the system to IDIS Solution Suite. As the system expands FEN will act as force multiplier by reducing installation costs, speeding up implementation time and protecting against human error by eliminating the complexity and cyber challenges associated with multi-site surveillance. "Working in close partnership with IDIS we were able to deliver a smooth, staged technology migration at these critical security sites, with no delays, problems or interruptions to recording," said Ahmad Shanawani, Managing Director of Ametrad Technology Services. Meanwhile, the Central Bank’s engineering department confirms that the IDIS solution now provides the uncompromising standard of protection they need, with lower ongoing costs, easier operation and the assurance that they will continue with the highest standard of video surveillance going forward.

Since renovation began in the 1990s, the Custard Factory in central Birmingham has grown into an important centre for the creative and digital industries, as well as a destination for leisure, retail and cultural activities. The 15-acre site, which in Victorian days was a pioneering centre for food and ingredients production, has been transformed into a thriving working community for hundreds of small businesses, benefiting from several phases of development. The Custard Factory now comprises multiple buildings in a vibrant city centre location, so the risks of petty crime must be planned for and the safety of users ensured. Upgrading to IP and wireless technology An ageing analogue video system at the Custard Factory was proving expensive to maintain and, without enough cameras, it was giving only limited coverage. An upgrade was needed but installation work had to take place without disruption to the many businesses at the site, so specialist integrator Unison Integrated Technology was asked to find the most suitable solution. Latest video tech from IDIS was selected because it provided the best image quality The latest video tech from IDIS was selected because it provided the best image quality, unrivalled usability and trouble-free installation with the ability to mix and match equipment. It also allowed existing infrastructure such as coax cabling to be incorporated, and by combining HD-TVI with the latest IP and wireless technology it enabled real-time monitoring in the control room without the need for complex and expensive civil works. IDIS IP cameras More than 60 new high-performance cameras have now been integrated into a leading-edge solution giving complete coverage of this diverse estate made up of the main Custard Factory Buildings, an open-air carpark, neighbouring external areas and the Fazeley studios. To protect the carpark and external areas, including historic archways, a mix of cameras has been used, including dome cameras with IR LED and wide dynamic range giving coverage in all lighting conditions. All IDIS IP cameras also benefit from IDIS Smart Failover technology which ensures continued video capture in the event of network instability or failure. DR-6316 H.265 NVR Video is streamed to the control room via a SilverNet wireless link, yet crucially there is no latency or lag on the images. These cameras are connected to a DR-6316 H.265 NVR, supporting 16 channels that utilises IDIS Intelligent Codec to minimise bandwidth and storage requirements. Thanks to IDIS true plug-and-play technology, Unison Integrated Technology installed new cameras without disruption At the Fazeley studios, which includes both indoor and outdoor facilities, a combination of IP and analogue bullet cameras, PTZs and domes are used.  And at the Custard Factory main buildings, four PTZ cameras, two fixed domes and 25 bullet cameras are connected to IDIS’s powerful DR-8364D recorder, which supports up to 64 channels with a super-fast 900Mps throughput. IDIS true plug-and-play technology Thanks to IDIS true plug-and-play technology, Unison Integrated Technology installed the new cameras without disruption or any need to stop trading during the work, which included working around operational restaurants and shops. At the purpose-built security control, room operators now have a complete view of the site, allowing them to replace inefficient patrols on foot with more frequent video tours. And the free IDIS Center video management system (VMS) makes it easy to operate the new, enhanced system incorporating third-party cameras, the HD-TVI analogue devices and the latest IDIS IP tech. High-resolution video surveillance With the new surveillance system and improved lighting in place visitors feel safer, particularly walking to and from the car park after evening events. The ability of the security team to monitor events real-time and respond to health & safety incidents is appreciated by event organisers using the Fazely venue. And police have been able to tackle petty theft more effectively thanks to the high-resolution video evidence which is now easily and quickly retrieved in order to tackle crime. The IDIS technology fully delivered on our requirements for an affordable, high-quality surveillance solution" The solution is flexible and scalable, with more cameras easily added as the Digbeth estate continues to evolve and expand. Custard Factory estate manager Simon Dunn says the upgrade has far exceeded expectations. IDIS video security system Simon says, “The IDIS technology fully delivered on our requirements for an affordable, high-quality surveillance solution covering our complete estate. The Unison engineering team delivered the project to the highest standard and they were considerate and respectful of our busy, live environment. I am very pleased with the result, both in terms of the quality of the images and the operation of the system, which is simple and effective.”

An upgraded public area CCTV solution using robust video capture technology from IDIS, Korea’s global surveillance technology provider, is safeguarding Leybourne in Kent against anti-social behaviour. The new system, designed and installed by iC2 CCTV, has allowed the parish council to work within a limited budget to deliver extended coverage, improved image quality and no data loss. Leybourne is a village with a strong community feel and an attractive rural character however, with good transport links to the nearby M20, residents were concerned about the risk of crime coming in from outside the area. Budget constraints also meant that data-streaming had to be capped and as a result video evidence was only being recorded part time Devise a solution Prior to the upgrade the village had limited public area surveillance based on outdated analogue technology, but it was proving costly to maintain and difficult to adapt to changing needs. Budget constraints also meant that data-streaming had to be capped and as a result video evidence was only being recorded part time. London-based integrator iC2 CCTV was consulted and asked to devise a solution that would work within the funds available. To achieve the lowest total cost of ownership, iC2 CCTV recommended installing the latest IDIS technology on a 5GHz point-to-point wireless infrastructure. At the heart of the new system is a powerful 64-channel, full HD NVR recorder – model DR-8364D – which offers the important advantage of flexible H.265/H.264 dual codec performance. This feature allows recording in high-definition H.265 but viewing on a variety of older screens using H.2264, so it means existing display equipment can be retained. Significantly improved protection A combination of 3-megapixel and 5-megapixel IDIS domes and bullet cameras mounted on lamp-posts in key locations gives significantly improved coverage and image detail. And IDIS Smart Failover provides the best guarantee against data loss: if Leybourne’s network connection is compromised for any reason, all recordings continue to be stored on SD cards within the cameras and are then automatically downloaded as soon as the connection is re-established. The IDIS technology together with the wireless network, installed over five weeks by iC2 CCTV without disrupting the village, gives Leybourne significantly improved protection without high ongoing costs. Unlike the old analogue system, recordings are now easily searchable with time/date stamped footage and the high definition image quality is ideal for use in investigations and as evidence. IDIS Smart Failover ensures that uninterrupted evidence is always retained in the event of transmission failures Excellent quality data IDIS Smart Failover ensures that uninterrupted evidence is always retained in the event of transmission failures, without the need for time-consuming manual data downloads from individual cameras. “This robust, new video system is proving very popular with Leybourne Parish Council and the community and enables us to provide excellent quality data and images for Kent Police and the local authorities,” stated the chairman of the Parish Council Bob Ulph. “It has already deterred a lot of the anti-social behaviour that councillors and residents were concerned about and is providing reassurance that any crime in the future will be dealt with.” More cameras can now be easily added, or the location of cameras changed as the need arises, says James Min, Managing Director, IDIS Europe, and the system is protected by the IDIS Ultimate seven-year warranty and the assurance that the technology will be forward-flexible to meet future needs.

Videotec has extended its range of cameras that include the new DELUX imaging and encoding technology. It can now be found in models designed for surveillance in the Marine and Oil & Gas sectors, and significantly improves the day and night vision and competitiveness of these products.  DELUX imaging and encoding technology After recently being integrated into the ULISSE COMPACT PTZ, DELUX technology is now available across the IP, PTZ and fixed cameras of the ex-proof and Marine lines, namely the MAXIMUS MPX, MVX AND NXPTZ. These models are well regarded on the market for their high-performance levels and operational efficiency in extreme environments and where there is a risk of explosion. DELUX technology brings increased light sensitivity, which means the cameras deliver very high-quality vision during the day or night, with clear high-definition images and incredibly well-defined colours – even in very low light conditions. The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications Day/Night surveillance The improved precision and image clarity provides immediate added value to outdoor surveillance applications, especially in sensitive areas where the need to identify people, objects, moving vehicles and other events, day or night, is crucial. In addition to improved colour rendering and greater noise reduction, DELUX technology has brought new advanced PTZ performance, namely in the control of speed proportional to zoom and the management of Privacy Masking. High-performance solutions The DELUX technology has been developed end-to-end by Videotec’s R&D team and this has led to considerable reductions to the costs of these new camera models. Videotec’s DELUX products are therefore extremely competitive, and are complete high-performance solutions, reinforcing their prominent position in an increasingly demanding and selective international security market.

Total Ghana, a leading oil and gas company with over 200 service stations in Ghana, is one such business that needs around-the-clock security not only for its premises based in Accra but also for its many service stations. Total is dedicated to delivering quality petroleum products and serving its customers in innovative ways. This means Total’s consumer operations involve a concentration of vehicle and pedestrian activity with people fueling vehicles and moving between the retail outlets. This leads to complex security and safety challenges and keeping track of it all is not possible without an effective security system. Facilities and workers’ security With the continuing growth of its business, Total needed a solution that would strengthen security of its premises and new service stations being opened across the country. The safety of Total’s workers is paramount and, in addition to securing its premises and stations, the company wanted to automate the monitoring of its operations to ensure compliance with safety procedures. Total turned to Steehold, a security solutions provider in Ghana renowned for protecting companies across industries including financial services, mining, petrochemicals, and telecommunications. Steehold was tasked with not only installing a new security system but also ongoing security monitoring and management across Total’s operations in Ghana. Steehold’s video security system From the moment we engaged with Steehold, we knew they understood the security challenges facing our business" “From the moment we engaged with Steehold, we knew they understood the security challenges facing our business. For example, petrol stations operate day and night so video cameras need to provide excellent imagery in variable lighting conditions and we need to monitor areas both inside and outside. If cameras lack certain features, then the images they record may be insufficient for analysis, or for use as evidence, should it be required. Steehold knew how to combat these issues while also providing an effective monitoring tool for operational efficiency and worker safety,” explained Total executive. Steehold needed a video surveillance system that would cover Total’s premises and service stations from all directions and it knew exactly which solution would meet Total’s needs. IP video surveillance solution “We choose Hikvision as we knew its video cameras were grounded in innovation and quality, providing the best video footage in the widest range of conditions to help Total’s business,” said Samuel Tawiah, executive director, Steehold. Following extensive consultation with Total staff, the final design of the surveillance solution at the facility and new services stations consisted of 120 Hikvision IP cameras to enable high quality 24/7 surveillance across the Total’s premises and its new service stations in Ghana. Hikvision Easy IP 3.0 cameras and NVRs Hikvision Easy IP 3.0 cameras feature a wealth of innovative technologies to combat low-light, bright-light, and extreme weather conditions The Hikvision Easy IP 3.0 cameras feature a wealth of innovative technologies to combat low-light, bright-light, and extreme weather conditions, while still providing superlative image quality. The cameras also include capabilities such as object tracking, line crossing, intrusion detection, and motion detection, with the ability to trigger alerts and make security staff immediately aware of any suspicious behaviour. At the heart of the solution lies Hikvision’s NVRs, which store up to 12 terabytes of recorded footage from all cameras. IP cameras, PoE and video encoders While Total wanted to upgrade to an IP system, it had already invested heavily in CCTV cameras and wanted to retain the cameras that were functioning well. Steehold installed Hikvision’s video encoders which convert the existing cameras’ analog signals into digital. These encoders are connected to the NVR, and the system treats them like the other IP cameras. Steehold installed the IP cameras itself as the cameras are PoE (Power over Ethernet) which means that power and data is supplied over a single Ethernet cable, making installation much easier because they don't have to be located next to a plug socket. Hikvision remote video surveillance system Total is already reaping the benefits from the newly installed Hikvision video surveillance system Total is already reaping the benefits from the newly installed Hikvision video surveillance system. It provides the ability for Steehold to monitor Total’s entire facility and new services stations in real-time remotely from its control center located in Accra. “The deployment of Hikvision’s innovative technology into our surveillance solution for Total has proven essential for our security operators to detect intrusion, theft, and damage across Total’s operations. With crystal clear images day and night as well as advanced features that alert security operators of any suspicious behaviour, we are confident we can help Total respond quickly to any breaches,” said Mr. Tawiah. Watchful IP eyes for operational safety Hikvision’s video surveillance system also helps Steehold operators to remotely monitor processes across Total’s premises, enabling supervisors to enhance processes to improve workflow and ensure the safety of workers. “At Total, the safety of employees is of utmost importance. Data from Steehold generated by Hikvision’s video surveillance system plays an integral role in helping us keep our employees safe and our operations compliant with safety policies. It provides a definitive way to ensure safety policies are being followed and that there are no hazards presenting a harmful threat to our employees,” said Total executive. Intrusion detection Hikvision’s security cameras deliver a live and recorded view of the facility which is accessible 24/7 and has helped ensure safety protocols are followed By deploying Steehold’s security solution based on Hikvision’s video surveillance system, Total’s heightened security has kept its facilities and service stations protected against trespassers, theft, and vandalism, and in particular has minimised losses caused by theft in its service stations. In addition, Hikvision’s security cameras deliver a live and recorded view of the facility which is accessible 24/7 and has helped ensure safety protocols are followed. For example, it has significantly increased employee compliance with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) rules at Total’s sites resulting in a direct and immediate improvement in safety. Easy, seamless integration Easy installation and integration with Total’s existing CCTV-enabled Steehold to deliver a cost effective, efficient, high-end video surveillance solution. Steehold is now planning to use Hikvision’s cutting-edge video monitoring systems as part of its security and emergency response solutions for its other customers, helping them minimise security threats and maximise operational safety and efficiency.

Video storage is an important – and expensive – aspect of almost any surveillance system. Higher camera counts equate to a need for more storage. New analytics systems make it easier for operators to manage video, but that video must be dependably stored and easy to access if and when it is needed. To keep up to date on the latest developments, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new in video storage solutions?

The ability to treat patients in a secure environment is a base requirement of hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Whether facilities are large or small, security challenges abound, including perimeter security, access control of sensitive areas, video surveillance, and even a long list of cyber-risks. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of hospitals and the healthcare industry?