Benchmark July 2023

Benchmark Innovation Award Finalists

Texecom have been nominated for the Benchmark Innovation Awards. Cast your vote: www.benchmarkmagazine.com/vote

ALARM/DETECTION INNOVATION

Capture has been reimagined and remastered. Form, function, & performance - perfectly blended to exceed the needs of modern security requirements.

Innovation Awards 2023 FINALIST

ANALYTICS & SOFTWARE INNOVATION

Texecom Monitor offers seamless, effortless and fully integrated primary alarm communications for Premier Elite systems.

CLOUD/SAAS INNOVATION

Texecom Cloud offers remote monitoring and control of Premier Elite security systems, providing advanced convenience and functionality.

www.texe.com

Cast your votes now!

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Benchmark

SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATORS

July 2023

6 Hanwha Vision brings AI-based detection and classification to entry level cameras

Hanwha Vision, the global vision solution provider, has announced that AI-based object detection and classification is now available in its entry-level Q series, making AI more affordable than it’s ever been.

8 HID’s employee badge readily available on Apple Wallet

HID Global’s employee badge access is now available on Apple Wallet. Using their Apple mobile devices, employees can access office doors, elevators, turnstiles, and multi-function printers, to name but a few.

12 University of St Andrews gets new access control for Younger Hall refurbishment

Abloy UK, Aspex and Johan Doors have worked in collaboration to provide the University of St Andrews with a compliant access control solution for the refurbishment of Younger Hall.

14 The future of Emergency lighting and how technology is evolving to meet the current needs

We talked to Richard Wharram, Exports Sales Manager at Hochiki Europe, a leader in global life safety, to shed some light on the company’s new FIREscape Nepto.

18 Adding surveillance to Butterfield Business Park

Amthal was selected as the security partner of choice, covering all aspects of security installation and maintenance from the perimeter through to internal business protection, including smart CCTV, ANPR technology and access control.

20 Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023 finalists announced

Benchmark Innovation Awards recognises the pioneering pieces of the security puzzle that have pushed through known limitations by creating new solutions or by redefining what the issue is altogether and then stepping up to solve it.

Dear Reader,

Benchmark

SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATORS

July 2023

Welcome to the June issue of Benchmark Magazine. This month you’ll have great reads on the products that have made it as finalists for the Benchmark Innovation awards, and you can vote for the companies you think deserve to receive your recognition.

IDIS’ AI Box for surveillance, the DV-1304-A, was nominated as a finalist at the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023, Surveillance Innovation (CCTV) category. The device fills the gap in the market for entry-level to mediumsized applications by providing a scalable four-channel option at a fraction of the price of other modes of AI, making it easier to harness the power of deep learning analytics.

Pyronix’s CarDefender has been nominated as a finalist in this year’s Alarm/Detection innovation category.

Vicon’s Valerus 23.2 is a finalist in the Video Monitoring Solution category. Vicon’s highsecurity VMS solution offers a centralised endto-end security ecosystem for any project at any scale. Available as a one-time license fee, users know exactly what to expect and all the cash savings they’ll have from the optimised storage, bandwidth, and energy use are theirs to keep.

Intratone SC-03 intercom is recognised for Its innovative design, advanced features, and straightforward user interface that reduce operational costs and enhance overall security in the Visitors Management Innovation category.

WebeyeCMS, Webeye’s cloud-based security solution, has been nominated for the third consecutive year in the Could/SaaS category.

Texecom Monitor offers unparalleled analytics and software capabilities and empowers users

with a comprehensive and intelligent security solution. We contacted Hugh Devereux, Head of Product Management at Texecom, to determine why Monitor should win the Analytics and Software Innovation Award.

Johnson Controls’ IQ Wi-Fi 6 is a finalist in the Network and Connectivity category. IQ Wi-Fi 6, the first Wi-Fi system purpose-built for pros from Qolsys by Johnson Controls, provides a reliable solution with a simple installation and a super-fast network.

Paxton has been nominated for Innovator (Company) of the Year in the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023. Their two access control solutions, Net2 and Paxton10, are also shortlisted for the Visitor Management Innovation and Video Management Software Innovation awards.

Before leaving you to read about the BIA2023, I wanted to share my opinion on Panorama’s investigative programme on Chinese-made CCTV. While the program highlighted valid concerns regarding privacy and security, it is crucial to approach these discussions nuance, avoiding the stigmatisation of products based on their country of origin.

Surveillance systems should include robust safeguards and privacy measures, regardless of their origin. To ensure good security measures, data encryption must be rigorous, secure network protocols must be followed, and potential vulnerabilities must be patched regularly. By placing emphasis on the establishment and enforcement of rigorous security standards, we can mitigate potential risks and protect individuals’ privacy, irrespective of the camera’s manufacturer.

Geny Caloisi Content Editor

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To get in touch about editorial opportunities, please book a call on my calendar:

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Hanwha Vision brings AI-based detection and classification to entry level cameras

Hanwha Vision, the global vision solution provider, has announced that AI-based object detection and classification is now available in its entrylevel Q series, making AI more affordable than it’s ever been. AI cameras bring the benefits of deep learning AI to a multitude of applications including retail, small commercial premises, residential and hotels. What’s more, a number of models within this new Q series AI camera range come with 4K resolution, enabling a wider field of view with exceptional image quality.

As well as reducing false alarms, the Q series AI cameras also include intelligent video analytics for area and line crossing to detect people and vehicles loitering, exiting, and entering a pre-defined space. WiseMD (Wise Motion Detection) technology allows motion detection events to be shared with operators with greater accuracy thanks to the deep learning technology working to reduce false alarms.

A range of event actions gives operators notifications on other devices when an event is triggered by the camera so they don’t miss an important alert. These notifications include email, audio clips (played when integrated with a tannoy system), FTP, HTTP, and external

HID’s employee badge readily available on Apple Wallet

HID Global’s employee badge access is now available on Apple Wallet. Using their Apple mobile devices, employees can access office doors, elevators, turnstiles, and multi-function printers, to name but a few.

The Apple Wallet employee badge seamlessly integrates with third-party access control systems and is easily managed by internal staff. Your employee’s badge in Apple Wallet will work even if their iPhone needs charging. The employee badge in Apple Wallet also takes advantage of the privacy and security features built into the iPhone and Apple Watch.

An employee badge is stored on the user’s device, meaning Apple doesn’t see where staff or employees access it, so data is private and secure. Implementation of employee badge in Apple Wallet involves a collaboration between your organisation, HID and HID’s approved Technology Partners.

3xLOGIC empowers SME Security with New NVR

The NVR-1U-8CH by 3xLOGIC is a featurepacked but cost-effective NVR ideal for SMEs operating in commercial, healthcare, educational and warehouse environments and needing an NVR that is easy to install, configure, monitor and maintain.

NVR-1U-8CH is a Linux OS-based embedded power over Ethernet (PoE) 1U professional grade NVR. Featuring an Intel Celeron processor and supporting 64MP resolution, this device provides superior performance and high-definition video quality. The large 256GB solid-state drive (SSD) makes working effortless, while its eight channels can deliver up to 30W of PoE+, enabling full pan tilt zoom (PTZ). Using remote management allows users to control their systems from anywhere with internet access, saving time and improving efficiency. Read

Abloy UK launches new RIBA-approved CPD course

Abloy UK has launched a new RIBA-approved CPD course, explaining the requirements of EN 13637:2015 for electrically controlled exit systems for use on escape doors and how to achieve safe electrically controlled escape doors.

The course, delivered by accredited Abloy experts, explores EN 13637, which was adopted by BSI in August 2015. The standard covers the application of electrical controls to manage the unauthorised use of escape doors, whether as part of an access control system or just to achieve exit management in situations such as retail

stores, hospitals and schools and commercial premises.

As part of the course, attendees will learn that an exit system comprises of three elements, tested as a complete escape solution. The first is an electric controlling device, an initiating element (a resettable illuminated switch), and an electric locking device to secure the door. The electric locking device will be a fail un-locked device specifically designed to work under a side load to ensure escape, with the durability of the ability to release proven.

Roy Buckingham DipGAI, RegAI, MGAI, Regional Specification Development Manager for London & South East at Abloy UK, explains: “Escape doors should provide for immediate egress. However, there are instances where buildings

University of St Andrews gets new access control for Younger Hall refurbishment

Abloy UK, Aspex and Johan Doors have worked in collaboration to provide the University of St Andrews with a compliant access control solution for the refurbishment of Younger Hall. Younger Hall is the main venue for graduation ceremonies at the University, located in the centre of St Andrews. It is named after James and Annie Younger, local philanthropists and benefactors of the University.

It was designed by English architect Paul Waterhouse, built in the 1920s, and opened in 1929 by HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Its design combines aspects of NeoClassical and Art Deco styles, and the hall was recently renovated as part of a £12 million project.

In recent years, the University of St Andrews had created a mandatory technical specification for access control and electric

locking. It was quickly identified early on that electric magnetic locks and electric strikes were not secure methods of locking, and the Abloy EL560 was introduced to the University, and has been installed ever since.

The Abloy EL560 lock is the first choice for single leaf doors, providing reliability, robustness, and security. However, there are many double leaf entrance doors to the University building. As most of these doors are

The future of Emergency lighting and how technology is evolving to meet

Emergency lighting systems have evolved over time to meet the changing needs of buildings and people and technological advancements. These systems are crucial for ensuring safety during power outages or emergency situations, as they provide illumination to help people navigate and evacuate buildings safely. Designed to activate automatically when the main power supply fails, emergency lighting allows occupants to exit the premises quickly and safely.

In many jurisdictions, building codes and regulations mandate the installation of emergency lighting systems. In the UK, it is part of the duty of care that all “emergency routes and exits requiring illumination must be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in the case of failure of their normal lighting.”

Depending on the building, emergency escape illumination will have specific requirements, which will take over from normal lighting in the event of a power outage. Regulations and rules vary from country to country.

We talked to Richard Wharram, Exports Sales Manager at Hochiki Europe, a leader in global life safety, to shed some light on the company’s new FIREscape Nepto, its latest emergency

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SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATORS

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The daily e-newsletter delivers security news updates in a regular feed directly to the Inbox of the Benchmark’s worldwide subscribers. Registration to receive Benchmark’s e-newsletter is free-ofcharge and ensures that readers are kept up-todate without needing to search online for the latest information.

Hanwha Vision launches bi-spectrum AI camera

Hanwha Vision, a global supplier of robust and reliable video surveillance products, has launched a new bi-spectrum AI camera range that provides visual and thermal views of an area simultaneously. The TNM-C4940TD, TNM-C4950TD, and TNM-C4960TD are equipped with two lenses to generate a VGA thermal image and a 4K visual image.

The thermal lens enables perimeter detection of suspicious activity even in low light, poor weather conditions, or when visual barriers, such as foliage block the area. The visual lens provides identification

detail, thereby determining if the suspicious activity is, for example, an intruder. This enables detection and rapid identification without having to install two separate devices – saving time, equipment and ongoing

NEW PRO SERIES NETWORK CAMERAS

Adding surveillance to Butterfield Business Park

Amthal has installed new columns with wireless IP CCTV cameras and surveillance technology to offer peace of mind to businesses and visitors at Butterfield Business Park.

Butterfield Business Park, managed by Lambert Smith Hampton, a leading UK commercial and residential real estate consultancy, is located in Luton and comprises a range of high-quality commercial buildings.

Over 20 businesses in the park currently offer office space ranging from 500 to 15,000 square feet, and extensive expansion is planned to complete the oval design.

Amthal was selected as the security partner of choice, covering all aspects of security installation and maintenance from the perimeter through to internal business

protection, including smart CCTV, ANPR technology and access control.

Paige Dyke, Facility Manager – Property Management FM at Lambert Smith Hampton, says, “The complete security programme installed by Amthal at Butterfield Business Park continues to provide a comprehensive and reliable security solution, offering peace of mind to businesses together with their employees and visitors.

“As we continue our site expansion plans, the clear advantage of the system is its scalability, ensuring we can continue to benefit

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Paxton Recognised for Innovative Access Control Technology

With nearly 40 years of experience, Paxton designs and manufactures simple-to-use smart access control systems and security products. Benchmark Magazine readers have recognised the manufacturer’s continued development and world-class customer support by shortlisting them for three awards this year.

Paxton have been nominated for Innovator (Company) of the Year in the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023. Their two access control solutions, Net2 and Paxton10, are also shortlisted for the Visitor Management Innovation and Video Management Software Innovation awards.

Adam Stroud, Paxton’s CEO, said:

“Aspiring for innovative products and worldclass customer service is part of our DNA at Paxton. As a company, we are determined and passionate about what we do.

“I am proud that our effort and dedication have been recognised by industry professionals and be nominated for three

Read the full article here

The four-channel box that provides a fully operational AI surveillance solution

Implementing AI video surveillance when you have a small to medium project might feel a bit like overkill. We know that AI-powered video analytics can generate real-time alerts and notifications, based on predefined rules or anomalies. And it’s proven that this can

save significant time and prevent pointless alarms. Using AI video as a proactive tool not only helps to minimise response times, it increases the chances of preventing losses and damage in the first place.

However, most users won’t want to invest in expensive software or enterpriselevel multiple-channel NVRs – so if your requirements are for smaller installs – such as retailers, hospitality venues, schools, offices

Read the full article here

CarDefender extends the reach of your security solution outside your front door

Over 123,000 vehicles of all types were stolen between September 2021 and 2022, according to the Office of National Statistics. That’s a shocking increase of 29% from the previous 12-month period.

Where older vehicles are targeted with

Valerus 23.2: Powerful AI Analytics in a Cutting Edge VMS

Valerus, Vicon’s high-security VMS solution, offers a centralised end-to-end security ecosystem for any project at any scale. Available as a one-time license fee, users know exactly what to expect and all the cash savings they’ll have from the optimised storage, bandwidth, and energy use are theirs to keep.

The Valerus platform enables users to manage their video access control, license plate recognition (LPR), vape detection, thermal imaging, and more.

Valerus 23.2, a finalist in the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023 in the Video Monitoring Solution category, also provides real-time alarm management, interactive maps, AI-based object search with Museum Search, and a system health monitoring dashboard.

Valerus 23.2’s sophisticated yet simple and flexible interface helps users monitor and investigate video, audio, alarms, access

traditional smash-and-grab techniques, modern cars are being stolen with more sophisticated techniques, using keyless technology to trick the car into thinking the key is present and operational. Keyless thefts are twice as likely to happen, and it can take as little as 60 seconds.

Recognising the worrying rate at which vehicle theft has increased over the last couple of years, Pyronix set out to develop

control, LPR, and system health without changing windows or systems.

It provides a centralised platform for all security intel, saving time and making it

Intratone’s SC03 Intercom: A Comprehensive Solution

Intratone’s SC-03 Intercom represents an evolution in visitor management, offering a comprehensive solution that seamlessly integrates with existing access control systems. No matter how many residential units your building houses, Intratone’s SC-03 intercom makes it possible to manage them remotely, in real time, without needing to rewire or install handsets.

Intratone’s SC-03 Intercom has a mobile app integration and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) technology. The mobile app enables residents to grant or decline property access via audio or video calls on their preferred device –wherever they are. GSM is an open and digital cellular technology for transmitting mobile voice and data services. This means the intercom can use roaming to find the most efficient, readily available network and transmit and store the video and twoway audio at the best possible quality.

Read

Connecting the Dots with IQ Wi-Fi 6

Wi-Fi 6, the successor to Wi-Fi 5, is a powerful wireless protocol designed to enhance Wi-Fi connections in areas with many devices requiring connectivity. With its greater potential area coverage and mesh network compatibility alongside uniquely efficient throughput, even large-scale areas utilizing Wi-Fi 6 experience less network congestion and faster connection speeds.

As security systems increasingly support wireless and IoT devices, Wi-Fi 6 provides a robust option for any location – like homes, large buildings, or commercial areas –where these devices compete with other wireless devices for connectivity.

Johnson Controls’ IQ Wi-Fi 6 is a finalist at the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2023 in the Network and Connectivity category.

WebeyeCMS offers enhanced efficiency and cost savings

WebeyeCMS’ latest release (v3.6.8), from June 2023, took care of fixing bugs, ensuring smooth operations with third-party devices, and improving reporting and viewing options.

WebeyeCMS, Webeye’s cloud-based security solution, has been nominated for the third consecutive year in the Could/SaaS category at the Benchmark Innovation Award 2023.

Texecom Monitor software delivers reliability

Texecom has continuously demonstrated a commitment to innovation, and Texecom Monitor stands out by offering unparalleled analytics and software capabilities and empowering users with a comprehensive and intelligent security solution. We spoke to Hugh Devereux, Head of Product Management at Texecom, to find out why Texecom Monitor should win the Analytics and Software Innovation Award at the Benchmark Innovation Awards, where it’s one of the finalists.

Benchmark Magazine: How does the userfriendly interface of Texecom Monitor software simplify complex analytics and software functionalities for users?

Hugh Devereux: Texecom Monitor uses the Texecom Cloud Installer portal to enable Installers to quickly link Sites directly to ARCs without worrying about connectivity routing,

WebeyeCMS uses cutting-edge technology to provide advanced security features and functionalities. It incorporates the latest advancements in cloud computing and video analytics.

WebeyeCMS is the first fully cloud-based alarm-handling platform designed specifically for Video Monitoring. In WebeyeCMS, alarms are sent, received and monitored for successful transmission via the cloud. The

Read the full article here

IP networks or addresses. The customer can make the site application to the ARC directly through the Installer portal, and the ARC is

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2N IP Verso intercom upgraded to include a full HD wide-angle camera

A new update to 2N IP Verso 2.0 has been released, which has been designed to enhance both the flexibility and security of the product. In a recent survey, 2N’s residential and commercial customers were asked to describe the features they were most looking forward to seeing in access control devices, and this is in direct response to the question.

The security upgrades include a full HD wide-angle camera which, based on 2N’s internal research, is now a requirement in more than 50% of office projects (and is increasingly being requested by homeowners too). The camera provides crystal-clear image quality even in very poor light. Unlike other cameras that switch to night mode and infrared illumination at dusk, it can also maintain full image colour until just

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Luxrite Launches SPRO Flame Detection Cameras

The rising risk of fires, specifically those instigated by lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters and similar devices, urgently calls for a forward-thinking strategy in

safety and prevention. In response to this growing need, SPRO, the security solutions brand by Luxrite, presents its unique Flame Detection Cameras to the UK CCTV installation market. This technology significantly boosts fire and safety measures, providing CCTV installers and

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SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATORS

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Axis card readers win Red Dot Award for design

An international jury has awarded AXIS A4020-E Reader and AXIS A4120-E Reader with Keypad the distinction “Red Dot Award: Product Design 2023.”. This is the fifth time

the company has received the prestigious Red Dot award.

AXIS A4000-E Series includes AXIS A4020-E Reader and AXIS A4120-E Reader with Keypad. Both devices were designed for public spaces and business-related contexts as complements to any access control system. Their robust and weather-resistant design makes these readers suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

“The tapered design of the housing towards the back gives the device an elegant appearance, while the interactive front is protected by a subtly faceted frame – a successful product development,” concluded the jury.

Designed to match Axis network door controllers and Axis credentials perfectly, these readers offer secure and seamless entry. AXIS A4020-E Reader features a mullion-mount design to fit perfectly in narrow spaces and door frame installations. AXIS A4120-E Reader with Keypad features an intuitive touch keypad that can be used

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Abloy UK welcomes amendment to BS 7273: Pt4

The British Standards Institution recently amended BS 7273: Pt4 Code of Practice for the operation of fire protection measures

– Part 4: Actuation of release mechanisms for doors to enhance security and provide a safer way of controlling the use of escape doors by unauthorised individuals. Abloy UK says it is fully supportive of the initiative. The amendment features an expert commentary that will accompany the standard so that it will now directly refer

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Ajax Systems and Skills for Security partner in the UK

Ajax Systems has united efforts with Skills for Security, for Apprenticeship Training across the Electronic Fire & Security sector in the UK.

Milestone Systems welcomes new Chief Revenue Officer

Milestone Systems, a provider of openplatform video management software, announce the appointment of Morten Illum as its new Chief Revenue Officer (CRO).

Morten Illum brings extensive experience and a strong track record in channel sales

The Skills for Security program aims to educate and support local engineers by providing access to the latest technologies, knowledge and solutions for security. The program recognises the many challenges facing the sector right now, particularly an estimated shortfall of around 30,000

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across various regions. His leadership in driving transformation and his deep knowledge of the tech industry make him an invaluable addition to the Milestone team. Morten has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive revenue growth, forge strategic partnerships, and build highperforming sales teams.

“I am thrilled with Morten Illum’s appointment as our CRO which represents a significant strengthening of our company,”

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iPro launches Rapid PTZ camera range

i-PRO announced 16 new high-speed pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) cameras with up to 4K resolution and powerful IR illumination.

Called Rapid PTZ, the company is launching the new models as part of its X and S Series lineup. With comprehensive AI capabilities and a wide range of resolution options, the new PTZ cameras are among the smallest in their category.

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Vemotion extends OEM capabilities in single board streaming solution

Vemotion Interactive has launched a new version of its popular VB-OEM. A high-performance, robust, and reliable

OEM streaming solution, the Vemotion single-board VB-OEM is designed for CCTV cameras, networking, analytics manufacturers, and systems integrators. It supports analogue cameras (via USB capture card) as well as IP cameras. In addition to transmitting video and audio over cellular, satellite, or wired

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