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SIGNAGE

SIGNS OF THE TIMES With the development of new technologies comes the development of new business opportunities. Are you ready to think out-of-the-box in terms of digital signage?

ave you noticed that in many places there used to be blank walls, but now there is a flat screen monitor? It’s not that there was inherently anything wrong with the wall or even the poster that could have adorned the place for a period, it’s just that technology is moving on at such a pace with prices becoming even more reasonable and with the increased capabilities of the systems they can be deployed in areas where originally they would have been far too expensive or, just a pipe dream.

The first place where the general public first saw the use of technology in such a way was probably in the Post Office. The clever people who ran the operation realised that the long snaking queue at lunchtimes was a captive audience and the installation of television screen at various points along the line could not only sell the shoppers more items from the Post Office counter, but it could also be a revenue stream for external advertisers to extoll the virtues of their wares, thus creating a revenue stream which would rapidly cover the costs of the equipment and the installation.

Today it is not uncommon to see AV systems used in all kinds of areas. In many cases they

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Would you buy anything that you saw on a screen that had a resolution worse than HD? That is not a risk that advertisers can take

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have been used to replace advertisement posters (such as on the London Underground escalators) and in some places the touchscreen has taken the place of the monitor that replaced the poster.

Take self-service and POS for example. There are now so many different ways for a customer to purchase items while in a store that the days of the checkout operator seem to be going the way of the CD. And what’s more, all of these systems are linked so that the store can record your buying habits – not that these may be your actual preferences anyway as the AV screens in the shop are influencing your decisions and how you move around the store. Couple all of this with pester power and impulse buying and your shopping trip just got more expensive.

Don’t believe me? Try doing your weekly shop online and see the price difference.

The use of AV in such a way is an example of how technology was developed and then evolved.

Originally only computers had monitors, but now that we all have tablets, it’s public space advertisers that are the big users of monitors. Not that a journey into town these days is like the opening scene in Blade Runner, but the use of screens is growing at an amazing pace – and the technology innovations have not slowed either.

Some of the latest AV monitors to hit the market are not only HD touchscreens but they can be two-way; interacting with the person in front of it.

Screens don’t have to be square or 16:9 either.

The digital totem is commonplace in shops in varying shapes and sizes. Some screens are 1080p but UHD and 4K are not far from being

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introduced to the wider world and curved screens have just been announced too. This is one fast moving sector!

This constant development of technology has led to the type of digital signage systems installed being of such superior quality that you now almost expect HD wherever you go. Just try nipping through a fast food drive through and you’ll probably see screens as good as the one you have at home to watch Blu-Ray films on.

Because of this it is vital that if retail outlets and brands want to appear at the forefront of their market or a ‘leader’ in the field then the technology they use in public to promote themselves must reflect this. Not only must the visual content of the message be stunning, but so must the screen on which it is showing.

Would you buy anything that you saw on a screen that had a resolution worse than HD? That is not a risk that advertisers can take. The cost of digital signage in a shop is not just the price of the technology; there is also the video content and the floor space to pay for (specifically for totems), so the unit cannot look inferior without damaging the brand of which it is promoting.

In some instances where screens have not been replaced for some time, perhaps maybe because they are in-built into a fascia (such as on a bus) you tend to find that the video space is still available for rent because digital marketing experts don’t want to associate with lower quality technology.

So the lifecycle of screens doesn’t appear to be all that long and not only because retailers need to upgrade their own shopfitted signage on a regular basis. Can you remember the first time you saw a flat screen plasma TV? Well last year Panasonic, the company that championed plasma and made some of the biggest screens in the world for events such as the Olympics, pulled out of the market in favour of cheaper to produce LCD units. Not because plasma was inferior in terms of picture quality, just that the lower unit prices means that large screen televisions are now available to all, not just the rich and famous.

When stores decide to have a redesign the digital signage can be completely replaced as well meaning that the level of contract opportunities for installers and suppliers of AV systems is bigger than ever. Add to the mix the monitors needed for CCTV footage that you see in the entrances of stores and the ones you don’t see in the back office and you can see where installers could see regular revenue streams.

For a security installer the opportunities for fitting monitors has moved on rapidly from the multi-screens in alarm receiving centres and control stations and while this is still a great source of business for them (see the article on p8) there are retail and public space applications that have made a new market for those that know their way around digital signage and how to fit it.

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Welcome to PSiX issue 2

ince we launched this special publication a few months ago we’ve had some great feedback from the industry especially about the way in which we’ve been able to bring together a circulation to match the converging markets of security and AV/IT. There is already a dedicated UK magazine for security system installers (PSi) and there are lots of IT and AV-based publications, but none of these cross the boundaries in terms of content and circulation to reflect the integration of the technologies like PSiX does.

We hope you continue to see PSiX as a valuable source of information for those projects that involve the installation of systems that may traditionally not have been in your remit to fit, but due to network and technology innovations have become so.

And if there are any subjects you would like us to cover in the future, be sure to get in touch.

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Andy Clutton – Editor

CONTACTS EDITOR Andy Clutton Tel: 020 8295 8308 E-mail: andy.clutton@psimagazine.co.uk DESIGN & PRODUCTION Matt Jarvis Tel: 020 8295 8310 Fax: 0870 4292015 E-mail: matt.jarvis@proactivpubs.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT DIRECTOR David Lewis Tel: 020 8295 8309 Fax: 020 8295 1919 E-mail: david.lewis@proactivpubs.co.uk DISPLAY ADVERTISING Paul Amura Tel: 020 8295 8307 Fax: 020 8295 1919 E-mail: paul.amura@proactivpubs.co.uk ADMINISTRATION Tracey Beale Tel: 020 8295 8306 Fax: 020 8295 1919 E-mail: tracey.beale@proactivpubs.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR Mark Quittenton CHAIRMAN Larry O’Leary

Security-based editorial contributions to PSI are welcomed, and the Editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to publication. The views expressed in PSI are not necessarily those of the publishers.

Editorial and Advertisement Office PRO-ACTIV PUBLICATIONS LTD PO BOX 332 DARTFORD DA1 9FF © Pro-Activ Publications Ltd 2014 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

ISSN: 1360-6476 PSI is currently available for an annual subscription rate of £48.00 (UK only)

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THE FUTURE IN VIDEO It’s time to look ahead to what may unfold in the future with some video surveillance predictions for the next twelve months

HS has released its fifth annual white paper on the key trends for the video surveillance industry.

2014 is predicted to be another exciting year for the industry, with big data, thermal cameras, embedded audio capabilities and the rise of the cloud in China just a few of the trends to watch out for during the next twelve months.

If you want to know what is going to happen this year, read on:

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Video surveillance IHS has been researching the video surveillance equipment market for more than 10 years. During this time, the market has grown quickly, most years at a double digit rate. The year 2014 will be no exception. IHS forecasts that the global market will grow by more than 12 percent. Within the global market, IHS has identified fixed-dome and 180/360 degree network cameras as the fastest growing product segments, and the city surveillance and utilities/energy sectors as the vertical markets to watch.

Big Data The prevalence of smart phones, with cameras and internet connectivity—combined with social media apps such as Vine or Instagram—has led to the first “crowd sourced” data collection for an investigation in 2013, following the Boston Marathon bombings.

Now that the trend has begun, IHS predicts it is likely that police forces will increasingly request, and need to manage, crowd sourced video surveillance data. While this will allow law enforcement agencies to react more quickly, especially with the use of social media monitoring, it will also create data analysis and manipulation challenges. Meeting these challenges will provide systems integrators and software vendors with a new opportunity to create solutions that improve police incident responses in 2014 and beyond.

customers. With more than 1 billion potential users in China, getting the right mix of product and security features will be a successful combination.

Thermal cameras IHS forecasts that the video surveillance product market that will see the largest average selling price (ASP) decline during the next few years will be the un-cooled thermal camera market. While the number of un-cooled thermal camera units shipped to the commercial security industry suggests that the market has not yet been commoditised, increased competition, new products and new end-user markets will mean 2014 is a breakthrough year for the technology.

Panoramic cameras The big video surveillance camera category winner in 2014 will be 180/360 degree panoramic network cameras, with global unit shipments forecast to increase by more than 60 percent yearon-year, according to IHS. In particular, the cameras are predicted to gain market share in verticals such as retail, airports and casinos, where monitoring wide indoor areas is a key requirement of the video surveillance system.

Power over Ethernet As the transition towards network video surveillance continues, increasing focus is being placed on the supporting network infrastructure, and a crucial element to this is power. Recent developments in power over Ethernet (POE) standards and products make the technology a much more viable option for security managers.

Looking forward, IHS expects that security camera manufacturers will expand and develop their portfolios of low-powered cameras to conform to the POE+ standard. Technologies that overcome the distance limitations of Ethernet and POE also will find general market acceptance.

Live video and mobile access Cloud markets in China

As network bandwidth improves and network product pricing declines, cloud based video surveillance solutions are drawing the attention of more suppliers 4

In China, the concept of the cloud is becoming increasingly popular, especially as the telecom infrastructure matures. As network bandwidth improves and network product pricing declines, cloud based video surveillance solutions are drawing the attention of more suppliers. While a cloud based solution is not a compulsory choice, it does represent a great opportunity to leverage the massive demand for civil video surveillance.

With more attention and an increasing customer base, IHS predicts that cloud based video surveillance solutions will be defined by the value created in the applications it offers to

Following the events of the school shooting in Sandy Hook twelve months ago, there has been renewed focus on the idea of facility security managers securely sharing live video footage with law enforcement in the event of an incident. The technology needed to provide this already exists, yet issues over ongoing cost—and more importantly, who pays for the system—have meant that market penetration has been limited. However, with costs dropping and a refocus on protection of assets of both the physical and human kind in the post-Sandy Hook era, 2014 could be the year where live streaming of video surveillance to law enforcement becomes the norm.

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VIDEO TRENDS

Video analytics For some time now, video surveillance device vendors have been embedding low-end video analytics applications in their devices and offering them as “free” features. A question has therefore been raised: Will there continue to be a market for video analytics, or will all applications simply be offered for free? As the market reaches this fork in the road, it’s clear that vendors can no longer charge for basic algorithms. That said, in 2014, the market for video surveillance devices with chargeable VCA will remain a viable market in applications where the end-user needs advanced reliable analytics.

Cameras to make noise More than 70 percent of network cameras shipped globally in 2013 had either unidirectional or multidirectional audio capability, according to a new analysis from IHS. However, the consensus from security systems integrators is that these capabilities are rarely used. Nonetheless, with increasing awareness of embedded audio analytics and even sound source localisation, market penetration could be about to rise. With much of the technology already available and the constant need Healthy market growth to differentiate products and expected increase system efficiency, IHS CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design and predicts that the market will see Installation Association) recently announced greater emphasis on the audio the findings of its second survey into the UK capabilities of video surveillance residential custom installation sector. The systems in 2014. results show an industry anticipating healthy annual growth in turnover this year. ccording to the research, the outlook is Vendors to enter positive for the industry - with average new markets projected turnover for Custom Installation (CI) Contrary to popular belief, the companies in 2013 looking to exceed the physical security market is not reported £1m in 2012. Another significant finding consolidating, at least not in the showed that in 2013 the number of individuals near future. However, video employed as a Home Technology Professional (HTP) in the UK has increased 12% year-on-year surveillance vendors are to over 11,250. The growth of a skilled labour beginning to look at new markets force points to greater market confidence and as they invest the profits made higher 2013 sales for the residential custom from years of fast market growth. installation industry as a whole.

Following the announcements of “The research presents a positive outlook for new products from companies like the CI industry, demonstrating that we are Milestone Systems and Axis steadily growing and creating new jobs within Communications and new the sector. As we’ve recently come out of a long services from Hikvision and period of recession, the results paint a Dahua during 2013, IHS expects promising picture of growth, expansion and this trend to continue into 2014 employment opportunities,” says CEDIA’s with more new product and Executive Director in Region 1, Wendy Griffiths. service announcements from Other findings in the survey included: network focused security • The market research sized the UK companies, as they seek to add residential custom installation sector as new revenue streams to their worth from between £840 million and £875 portfolio. million in 2012.

• The average number of projects completed is

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projected to be 24, up on 21 projects in 2012.70% of firms said they exclusively completed projects only in the UK (up on 42% in 2012); 30% carried out installations worldwide, with the majority taking place in continental Europe.

Average gross turnover in 2012 was £1 million, lower than that of 2011 (£1.27 million). With £741,000 reported for the first half of 2013, full year 2013 will approach 2011 levels and exceed 2012.

HTP’s are increasingly including cloud/streaming services – 64% reported including these in 2013 compared to 57% in 2012.

60% of all projects take place in existing homes and 40% in new-build properties.

Equipment costs continue to account for approximately half the value of a typical project. 23% of equipment costs are for wires and interconnections.

An estimated 1250 companies are active in the UK residential custom installation sector.

77% of companies reported installing structured wiring in the first half of 2013, up from 72% in 2012. Also showing growth this year is security (alarm) systems at 41%, a rise of 3% from 2012.

HTPs project that 16% of all TV/screens sales will be Ultra HD in the 12 months following the survey (second half of 2013 to second half of 2014).

AV projects account for approximately 48% of all HTP residential turnover, with home cinema/media rooms the largest slice at 21%, followed by lighting control/design at 12%.

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INTEGRATION SOLUTIONS

INTEGRATION AND TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP With the introduction of an Online Updater, life has become considerably easier for consultants, installers and system integrators who are fans of Samsung Techwin’s video surveillance solutions

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he Online Updater, which can be downloaded from Samsung Techwin’s website (www.samsungsecurity.co.uk/producttools), ensures that customers and third party influencers will always have access to the most up to date versions of a wide range of product tools to assist with system design and product comparison and selection, as well as system set-up, administration and management tools.

“The free of charge product tools can help save precious time and costs when an installation company is designing, installing or commissioning a new video surveillance system or is looking to upgrade an existing system,” Peter Ainsworth, Senior Product Manager for Samsung Techwin Europe Ltd. “We know, for example that customers value the fact that we continue to lead the market by way of introducing innovative and price competitive new products, but with such a large portfolio of products we appreciate that it can be a challenge to identify the best products for a specific project. Our Product Selector tool provides the ideal solution and by downloading the Online Updater, customers can now ensure that they are able to compare and select the most appropriate products from lists which include our very latest generation cameras, lens, brackets and recording devices.”

Among the other product tools which can now be kept updated via the Online Updater is an easy to use system design tool, cameras field of view and network bandwidth requirement calculators and a device manager which can assist with the configuration and

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management of multiple network devices. The Online Updater also provides access to the latest versions of Samsung Techwin’s product documentation.

The iPolis Toolbox app, which can be used on compatible smartphones and tablets, is available on iTunes and the Android market. It currently provides the ability to take advantage of the product selector and field of view and network bandwidth requirement calculation tools, whilst other product tools will be added during the early part of 2014.

“The introduction of the Online Updater is a further demonstration of our commitment to offer the best possible pre and post sales support and is an extension of our drive to improve the Total Cost of Ownership of a Samsung Techwin video surveillance solution,” said Peter Ainsworth.

Integration Whilst Samsung Techwin is able to provide a single source for an end-to-end IP network based video surveillance system, it is appreciated that most customers will want to have the option to control and monitor equipment produced by a number of different manufacturers. With this in mind and to make it easy for customers who are looking for a gradual transition from an existing analogue system to a full IP network based integrated surveillance solution, Samsung Techwin is continuing to accelerate its programme to integrate Samsung cameras, DVRs and NVRs with video management software offered by leading independent software development companies.

This provides customers with the option for Samsung products to be controlled and monitored alongside equipment produced by other manufacturers. Axxon, Aimetis, Digifort, Griffid, Ipronet, Exacq, Genetec, ISS, Milestone, Mirasys, ONssi and Seetec are among the list of VMS companies that we has been working with because of their ability to offer ‘open’ software.

The functionality of the software available from the various VMS companies will not of course be identical but, regardless of which platform you choose, you can expect to be able to have a high degree of control of cameras and recording devices from various manufacturers, as well as the flexibility to integrate, for example, video analytics, access control systems and mobile devices.

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FUTURE PROOF YOUR BUSINESS

...AND SAVE MONEY WITH OUR WISENETIII IP SOLUTION At Samsung we understand that the decision for when and how you migrate to an IP security solution is a complex one, influenced by many factors. Our new range of WiseNetIII network cameras have both an analogue and IP output, as well as onboard SD card recording. This gives you complete control and flexibility to make the right decision to suit your business. Integrate WiseNetIII onto an existing analogue system, whilst recording Full HD onto the SD card, or take advantage of the dual output and record locally to your analogue recorder whilst simultaneously viewing remotely utilising the IP output. You don’t have to throw away the investment you made in your existing equipment – helping to improve Total Cost of Ownership!

Contact us for further information

E stesecurity@samsung.com

W www.samsungsecurity.co.uk/WiseNetIII

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UNDERSTANDING COMMAND AND CONTROL Knowledge is paramount when it comes to any command and control installation, says Stuart Hillis of Midwich Security

The broad range of videowall technology that is now available allows end users to benefit from greater clarity and flexibility from their command and control systems

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ith the growing demand for integrated command and control solutions incorporating security, access control, communication and networking equipment, today’s installers need to understand a much wider range of technologies.

The broad range of videowall technology that is now available allows end users to benefit from greater clarity and flexibility from their command and control systems. For example, Dexon Systems offers a portfolio of different viewers, splitters, edge blending video processors, videowall controllers and videowall servers to provide the perfect solution for any multi-image videowall requirement. Users can display multiple forms of input through a single processor, view multiple feeds on the same videowall and even create virtual spot monitors for individual camera feed display. The Dexon processors can even provide single point integration by bringing together feeds from alarms, access control, CCTV, IPTV, mapping and direct feeds from the internet.

With their purpose built command and control suite in Crowthorne, Bracknell, Midwich Limited provide installers, integrators and end-users with hands on experience of a fully operational, live command and control scenario.

Visitors to the suite can benefit from seeing

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the very latest technologies including: • Monitors and large format displays • Videowall solutions • Cloud management solutions and wireless PIR • Network infrastructure including wireless mesh • Projection, video conferencing, digital signage and IPTV • CCTV cameras, recorders and video management platforms • Access control hardware and software • Control systems The large range of security and access control equipment installed within the suite enables installers and end-users to view the command and control solution most closely related to their requirements, ensuring chosen products are fit for purpose. With the latest products on display from leading secuirty manufacturers including Bosch, Samsung, Panasonic, Dedicated Micros and TDSi, the majority of control room scenarios can be depicted.

Among the latest additions to the command and control suite is Herta’s facial recognition solution. World leaders in the development of cutting edge facial recognition software, Herta can monitor feeds from existing IP cameras and display live alerts and notifications to control room

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COMMAND AND CONTROL

operators through the videowall processor. The software can be used to recognise predetermined faces such as VIPs and known offenders, sending an alert through to the control centre for the appropriate action to be taken. Alternatively, images can be retrieved from pre-recorded data, allowing the search for individuals such as lost children or people at risk in public spaces such as shopping centres and tourist attractions.

One of the world’s leading suppliers of networking products, Zyxel provides a whole host of network infrastructure solutions. Known for quality and reliability, their products are ideally suited to deliver the network infrastructure for any command and control system. Their ZyWall series of VPN firewalls are feature rich incorporating firewall, IDP, content filtering, antivirus, anti-spam and VPN functionalities into a single box. Whilst their switches offer a huge amount of flexibility to the user with unmanaged, managed, web managed and PoE options as well as lifetime guarantees on certain models.

Opportunities A large majority of security installers are familiar with the workings of a command and control centre – whether it’s a large or small project, most installations needs some scale of monitoring to display what the cameras are seeing. It is here that a whole world of possibilities opens up to installers.

For some considerable time now, videowalls have

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established themselves as the display medium in average to large command and control centres.

Indeed, with technology progressing and hardware costs falling, even the smallest project can make use of the videowall phenomenon.

The big question is; why installers should limit their skills and the latest technology to security environments? Videowalls are fast becoming commonplace in retail, healthcare, universities as well as corporate environments.

Today’s technology is designed to work across a myriad of markets and security installers’ expertise can also cross over to unlock potential new revenue streams.

Today’s distributors are fully aware of how current customers can further their business by utilising their skills across various vertical markets and have been proactive in promoting the convergence message.

Mark Thomas, director at Midwich Security, has been instrumental in driving the convergence message with the IP /AV crossover and has helped many of its customers bring their skills to lucrative new areas: “Today’s security installers have many strings to their bow – and these are skills that can be applied in a wide variety of markets. Being a specialist distributor, one of our core aims is to ensure our customers are successful in their business and, in the case of Midwich Security, we have numerous services and training facilities to ensure they are fully equipped for whatever technology the future brings.”

Whether it’s a large or small project, most installations needs some scale of monitoring to display what the cameras are seeing

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ALTOGETHER NOW hen it comes to integrated security solutions, today’s installers are having to contend with a phenomenal array of systems and providers in their quest to deliver a solution for their customers. Along the way they need to seriously consider whether the best route is to deal directly with one large multi-national vendor or, instead, to turn to a number of specialist providers who can bring the pieces of the puzzle together. Of course at a practical level, whichever path is chosen it is all about whether specific elements, such as an access control or alarm system, are actually going to work together in a seamless way.

For large scale projects, like office complexes, airports, hospitals or manufacturing plants, installers may be tempted to specify one major supplier for the bulk of the security system elements. Often there is a belief that this is the best way to tap into the expertise necessary to combine disparate systems in a coherent, risk-free, way. If things do go wrong the thinking goes that at least there is only one person to seek out for remedial action. However, from the outset, it needs to be appreciated that there can be a downside to literally putting all of your eggs in one basket.

The reality of taking a ‘one provider fits all’ approach and working with a ‘generalist’, may be that, although on the surface everything operates together, by virtue of the security systems’ common origins, a performance gap can be left that could otherwise have been bridged. By limiting the options, each security integration element is, in reality, going to be less likely to represent the most innovative, or user friendly, solution that could be delivered.

Obtaining a proper understanding of a customer’s needs must be top of the agenda for all parties involved in the security system integration process, including, critically, installers. From a Harmony Alliance perspective, we feel that it is time for a re-think on how security integration is conducted by focusing on a way of combining the benefits of a ‘one-stop-shop’ with specialist providers’ expertise whilst also ensuring, crucially, that the process is solutions-driven. Consequently, companies who may not be the biggest players in the marketplace overall but who lead their own respective fields - whether that be intruder alarms, access control, detection at the perimeter or security system power supplies – should be given a much greater role at the project level. The reality is that when they coordinate their efforts this knowledge can prove invaluable in helping installers, and end users, to unlock a solution that is fit-for-purpose.

Considering the Harmony Alliance, for example, our initiative, launched at the recent Global Security

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Clym Brown, spokesperson for the Harmony Alliance, looks at the subject of joined up thinking for security integration

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Summit, is all about bringing specialist like-minded providers together – with complementary capabilities - who can offer a new perspective on major projects beyond that offered by traditional players. We believe that, moving forward, it makes sense for the market to focus on ‘best of breed’ security integration coupled with the reassurance that each part of the system has the potential to work together. Crucially, with the Alliance, at the project level, we are not looking to offer products without first appreciating the real requirements on the ground.

In some respects the new Alliance we have created, which features five UK-headquartered electronic security manufacturers - specifically Elmdene International Limited, GJD, ALT, Texecom and TDSi - formalises already existing links where products from several companies have commonly been specified together. A good example of this is the fact that in recent years there has been a requirement from customers using Texecom’s intruder alarm products to be able to integrate these with TDSi’s access control systems.

Ultimately, this led to an announcement earlier in the year regarding compatibility by the two companies.

We believe the Harmony Alliance very much reflects the demand for new thinking on the ground.

The rolling out of this initiative is designed to deliver the sort of product breadth, and reach, necessary to compete head-on with the established competitors in the marketplace across a broad spectrum of security applications. It is all about opening up choice in the marketplace. No longer do installers always want to be tied-in with a traditional player to achieve the seamless, and wide ranging, integration they are looking for. If we consider an airport in this context, where there is a need to secure key areas and assist passenger movement, the combined expertise of specialist providers can be wide ranging. It is perfectly possible in this way to encompass: access control readers and controllers, intruder alarms and wireless products, external movement detectors - to provide an early warning of potential dangers - and highly efficient and reliable power supplies to meet the demands of security-critical components.

So the message for those installers with a major project in mind, and looking to bring together multiple security elements, is that today there are many more options out there in terms of who you can work with, and how the right solution for your client’s needs can be delivered. Certainly, we feel that the Harmony Alliance is indicative of the way that security integration is moving, particularly, given the level of knowledge needed to keep up with the advances in any one specific area. By combining key product specialists under one umbrella in initiatives like this there is now the depth and range in place to help ensure that the solution which is being proposed is actually fit-forpurpose.

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Who we are A group of UK-based, world-class electronic security manufacturers have united to create something never seen before - an alliance that brings together best-in-breed specialists collaborating to offer customers LQQRYDWLYH VHFXULW\ VROXWLRQV DQG LQWHJUDWLRQ WHFKQRORJ\ ZLWKRXW VDFUL¿FLQJ IUHHGRP RI FKRLFH DQG IRUFLQJ compromise. Through cooperative product developments, support and distribution partnerships and an open-arms approach to support, they are working to improve the customer experience for installers and end users around the world.

Collaborate – Innovate – Protect Harmony alliance members are experts in their specialty. The alliance brings them together to develop unique solutions for customers, making each individual part of the security system work more effectively with each other part. They work with integrators to help customers solve problems, and ultimately, protect the lives, livelihoods and properties of our end-users.

Contact www.harmony-alliance.com info@harmony-alliance.com

ALLIANCE MEMBERS:

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LETS WORK TOGETHER...

Before the word convergence came along the worlds of IT and security were separate entities, however since the widespread adoption of IP technology the two sectors are merging fast. What happens when the security and IT sectors cross paths?

he security industry has many components: CCTV, access control, intruder alarms, fire safety to name just a few. Today’s technology is designed to be able to work alongside other systems to create a whole new, connected solution that is intuitive and proactive. A surveillance camera is no longer just looking at a scene, it’s also able to look for smoke, suspicious items and irrational behaviour. When linking cameras to other systems, alarms can be raised, doors locked, lights switched on and any number of other actions taken on the strength of what the camera picked up.

With the benefit of putting all of these systems on to a network, end users can now look at their security systems online from anywhere in the world, at any time of the day. What’s more, systems can automatically inform the owner via SMS that they are experiencing a technical problem and in some cases even make a decision on what needs to be done.

However amazing the benefits offered by modern technology are, it wouldn’t be the done thing for a security manager to simply go out and buy a load of IP-enabled equipment without first consulting the IT manager who will be expected to

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welcome fifty shiny new CCTV cameras onto his network. The procurement process now involves both parties, meaning that they now both need to be aware of the developments in technology.

As the networking of security technology becomes more commonplace, then the IT manager is having more of an influence in the procurement procedure and the introduction of IP into the world of security is bringing more people than ever into the sector. This absorption of IT into the security world is changing the way that systems are specified, bought, sold and installed.

The migration to IP-based video surveillance is firmly established and the question is no longer “when will IP-based equipment sales overtake analogue equipment sales?” for many applications this has already happened.

The arrival of IP-technology has brought its own questions, and simultaneously changed the shape of the market place. With the emergence of IP-based technology, it appears that IT distributors and IT integrators are now, increasingly, competing with traditional security distributors and security integrators.

A report in 2012 “IP Trends in Security – A Survey of Systems Integrators and Installers”

it wouldn’t be the done thing for a security manager to simply go out and buy a load of IP-enabled equipment without first consulting the IT manager 12

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SECURITY AND IT

found that 80 percent of North American systems integrators and installers purchase some IPbased video surveillance equipment from IT distributors, and the report said that this was expected to increase to 90 percent of systems integrators and installers by 2015. One year away and the market is certainly looking favourable for the distributors.

This finding compliments the fact that increasingly IT distributors are looking to add video surveillance products to their product range. This could be good news for the traditional IT integrators who are also looking to enter the video surveillance industry, as they will already have the established relationships with their IT distributors. However, many IT integrators are not looking to their distributors for the security knowledge they lack but are instead going directly to the manufacturers of the cameras they are using.

A key finding from the “IP Trends in Security – A Survey of Systems Integrators and Installers” report is the influence IT managers have in the decision of what IP-based video surveillance products are chosen. IT managers were ranked ahead of other key influencers such as physical security managers, chief security officers and consultants in their ability to influence which IPbased video surveillance products are chosen.

One reason for this influence may be the fact that IT budgets are typically larger than the associated security budgets. Instead of security managers buying an IP-camera and speaking with the IT department about how to incorporate it into the network, increasingly the IT department will buy the security equipment from their budget and incorporate the device into their network.

In the UK, we all know that analogue systems are well established, but IP is not just limited to CCTV. Many of the new developments to hit the market in the last few years are IP-enabled so this emergence of the IT integrator into the market indicates how the security landscape has evolved in the last few years, and also how important it is that everyone in the security procurement process is aware of the way that security and IT go together for maximum performance and efficiency.

Any company that continues to operate with the two departments working independently will surely struggle to attain the levels of security they expect for their new technology and quickly find themselves operating a system that may either be obsolete or even risking their corporate infrastructure.

It should also be noted that IP technology is not the only CCTV market for the IT/AV installer to move into with the analogue sector still going strong in many application areas there are ways to “upgrade” existing systems, or at least some

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elements of it, without needing to use a network.

Using technologies such as HD-SDI and 960H analogue surveillance equipment can be brought up to speed with its IP counterpart. Of course, the major vendor marketing budgets are heavily focused towards pushing IP and there are a number of CCTV manufacturers and suppliers who only deal with IP, but even the largest camera companies maintain a healthy analogue R&D line with new units continually launched.

For those working currently in IT however, the IP networkable systems offer a new revenue stream that could tie in nicely with the installation of networks, AV, POS, access control and other technologies due mainly to the ability to integrate the cameras alongside such equipment bringing one converged system to the customer.

What may be required, as previously stated, is the education needed to fit the cameras in the best position for optimum security and image quality, plus the co-operation and input of the IT department at the customer site.

The major vendor marketing budgets are heavily focused towards pushing IP and there are a number of CCTV manufacturers and suppliers who only deal with IP

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EDIT bosch ed_000_PSI_apr13 20/01/2014 21:55 Page 1

INTELLIGENT DYNAMIC NOISE REDUCTION (IDNR) TECHNOLOGY Innovative technologies found in Bosch HD and Megapixel IP cameras can effectively reduce network bandwidth requirements and subsequent storage costs, while maintaining high quality and detailed images.

Megapixel cameras deliver ultra-detailed images with more useful information – but this comes at a cost. The volume of data required to transport and store these images has risen significantly. The bandwidth demands that this places on the network infrastructure and the increase in required storage capacity adds significantly to total IP system costs. Disk space is one of the most expensive components of IP systems. Higher storage costs can ultimately cost you the difference of winning the next large project. The best place to reduce these costs is at the source – in the camera. And this is where Bosch takes a multi-pronged approach to reducing the quantity of data while retaining high quality of image: • Content-based Imaging Technology (CBIT) to reduce noise • Region prioritization to target important information • Optimized encoder efficiency to increase compression ratios The combination of these technologies has a significant impact on the bit rate/quality ratio which is directly proportional to storage and network costs.

The key to noise reduction Noise is a random pattern of pixels visible in the image. Some degree of noise is always present in any electronic device that transmits or receives a signal. Image noise is an undesirable by-product of image capture and the most detrimental factor in clogging the encoding process which leads directly to exaggerated bit rates for a given image.

Intelligent Dynamic Noise Reduction (iDNR) Classic noise reduction can take two forms. Spatial noise reduction averages the pixels within a frame to reduce noise. Temporal noise reduction involves averaging pixels over several frames to cancel out noise artifacts.

Intelligent Dynamic Noise Reduction (iDNR) is a new approach that uses a combination of these two methods and dynamically adjusts them based upon light levels and the CBIT analysis of moving objects in the scene.

Temporal noise reduction is very effective for static images but can cause problems when there is motion in the image. If temporal noise reduction is applied to moving objects, ghosting may be visible in the image where objects are blurred or repeated. CBIT analysis identifies those frames in which there is movement and passes this information back to the DSP which then adapts the temporal noise reduction for these frames. iDNR uses three factors to control spatial and temporal noise reduction: • CBIT movement analysis • Scene light level • User-set levels By combining these processes, iDNR optimizes bandwidth by dynamically tuning the degree of noise reduction based upon an analysis of important objects moving through the camera’s field of view. When the scene is quiet or no motion is present, bandwidth is minimized. When an important object is detected, bandwidth increases to capture maximum details. iDNR’s advanced algorithm can reduce bit rates and storage requirements by up to 50 percent in certain scenes without reducing video quality.

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Megapixel cameras are more susceptible to noise as the pixels on the sensor are smaller and are not able to collect as much light. More amplification is required which introduces noise. Low-light scenes also contribute to an increase in noise levels.

A first in the security industry, Bosch introduces a new technology for controlling the image processing. Content-based Imaging Technology (CBIT) is an intelligent scene analysis system that examines the actual content of the video image and provides feedback to the digital signal processor (DSP) to re-tune the image processing.

Bosch is the only security camera manufacturer with full control over image processing with intelligent video analysis (IVA) and Motion+. With this ground-breaking platform CBIT enables the sensors, the image processing and IVA to work as one module. CBIT radically improves the image quality in many areas but also has considerable impact when used to reduce noise.

Turning iDNR into real savings The savings that can be achieved with iDNR are easy to calculate. In our tests, bit rate reduction showed savings of up to 58 percent in one example. This can be directly correlated to savings realized in storage costs. So, in essence, if a video storage device costs 8.000 you may possibly only need to spend 3360 for the same amount of image detail being stored.

Bosch has engineered the ability to tune the image pipeline based on scene content. As a result of this, we are able to implement Intelligent Dynamic Noise Reduction (iDNR) which can reduce noise in an image based on motion and light levels. iDNR generally delivers up to 50 percent bit rate reduction over standard VBR in scenes without motion. Combined with the full range of CBIT features, this means an overall reduction of up to 30 percent for your surveillance system – this means a dramatic reduction in required storage space, power and cooling which enables you protect your assets, your budget, and the environment.

Remember, it is always possible to reduce bit rate - but this normally affects image quality adversely. The key benefit of iDNR and region prioritization is that you get significantly lower bandwidth without loss of image quality.

Bosch cameras provide the most usable image possible by optimizing the detail-to-bandwidth ratio. This equates to considerable savings on storage costs without jeopardizing image quality!

Ultimately, the Megapixel camera that provides the highest quality video with the lowest bandwidth and storage requirements will be the most desirable choice for the customer.

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Star performers in low-light conditions

Be wise and choose the most light-sensitive HD cameras on the market. The new DINION starlight HD 720P and FLEXIDOME starlight HD 720p RD/VR are the next real breakthrough in HD security. In poor light these amazing HD cameras deliver a clear color image where others show only black and white. And in extreme low-light they deliver a black and white image where others show no image at all! Add the Bosch Video Security app and overcome the bandwidth barrier so you can view HD images from anywhere. See video security in a new light at uk.boschsecurity.com/hdsecurity

EDIT case studies feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 11:42 Page 1

Sochi gets Safe City Solution

The city of Sochi is looking to be able to more efficiently manage its day-to-day city operations, optimise its law enforcement resources, and enhance public safety for its citizens and visitors 16

As a modern city whose population is expected to grow substantially in the coming years, the city of Sochi is looking to be able to more efficiently manage its day-to-day city operations, optimise its law enforcement resources, and enhance public safety for its citizens and visitors.

In addition, a high influx of visitors will be arriving to see and participate in several very highprofile events — 2014 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, Russian Formula 1 Grand Prix, 2018 FIFA World Cup. The city needed to meet the increasing requirements and complexity involved in ensuring public safety and security.

With the city needing to rapidly expand and enhance its security infrastructure, Sochi officials decided to deploy the complete Safe City solution, from Nice Systems to meet this challenge. Using the various components of the solution, Sochi will be able to more efficiently manage city operations, optimise its law enforcement resources, and enhance public safety for its citizens and visitors.

- Using NICE Situator, the city’s security infrastructure and systems have been integrated to form a command and control centre that includes 40 workstations. This allows law enforcement agencies to build a common operating picture for all stakeholders as well as to create an automated response plan with adaptive workflows.

- With NiceVision and the 1400 video channels deployed, the city of Sochi can monitor its urban operations and thereby address security, safety, and operational risks. Specifically, Sochi law enforcement authorities will be able to automatically detect overcrowding, unattended baggage, and perimeter intrusions through video analytics.

- With Nice Inform’s ability to provide complete, synchronised multimedia incident reconstruction files for debriefing and investigation. Additionally,

Inform-generated incident files can be used for insight to improve operations, training and the handling of events.

The implementation of the technology enables the city to monitor its urban operations and thereby address security, safety, and operational risks. Sochi law enforcement authorities will be able to provide protection to critical infrastructure and public buildings, in addition to being able to automatically detect overcrowding, unattended baggage, and perimeter intrusions.

They’ll also be able to monitor, detect, and manage traffic congestion and illegal parking, and prevent loitering and overcrowding situations in public buildings and commercial areas. All key elements in providing a safe and secure environment for the scale of events they will be hosting.

Sergey Cherepov, Director of the Situation Monitoring Center of Sochi, comments: “We are extremely excited to be hosting these world famous sporting events in Sochi and are committed to ensuring that the city is safe and secure. The coming years will witness rapid population and economic growth in Sochi, broadening the safety and security challenges as well as increasing the requirements and complexity of everyday city operations.”

Andrey Cheremnykh, President of the project system integrator, Asteros Group, explains: “Sochi’s Safe City project is a significant implementation of an emergency control centre and video surveillance platform. It will provide additional advantages to the police force, law enforcement authorities, and emergency and city operation services to help them reduce the number of offences and ensure public safety.” www.nice.com

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EDIT case studies feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 11:43 Page 2

CASE STUDIES

Technology improves passenger verification Human Recognition Systems has bolstered London Gatwick’s service to passengers via a new automated passenger verification system with added functionality.

As the airport continues to look towards the future of air travel, the technology opens up the possibilities for London Gatwick to make informed gate control and alert decisions based on accurate passenger movement information, creating operational efficiencies in the process.

MFlow Track v3.0 is an end-to-end biometric solution that has helped London Gatwick to automate passenger identification, enhance its overall passenger experience and grow the airport’s non-aeronautical revenue as a result.

Now in use by passengers in London Gatwick’s North and South Terminals, MFlow Track has led to security improvements and has already received positive feedback from passengers, airport personnel and airline staff for its ease of use.

The system removes the capacity for human error when identifying an individual by assigning a passenger’s biometric information to a form of identification. The integration of MFlow Track v3.0 with MFlow Journey presents the opportunity for the airport to validate passengers at all stages of the process and to manage passengers across a series of identity points – from car parking to ticket production to purchasing a discounted product in the retail space.

Michael Ibbitson, Chief Information Officer at London Gatwick, says, “By working alongside our existing infrastructure we now have the advantage of leveraging existing investments to increase the use of biometrics. These enhancements are

Managing 1000 airport cameras Brasilia International Airport deploys Aimetis Symphony Video Management Software to manage a 1000 camera, Axis system.

Aimetis Corp has announced that Aimetis Symphony has been deployed as the video management software platform for Brasilia International Airport, the main airport in Brazil’s capital city. The VMS provides the airport with a single platform to upgrade the existing CCTV system to operate over an IP network. It is a scalable system that allows new network cameras to be easily added as needed.

“Video management software is an essential element of our airport physical security strategy,” said Maria Alice Duarte Sobrinha, IT Manager, Inframerica Brasilia Airport.

Aimetis partnered with Redisul, a Brazilian system integration company for installation and project management. Redisul delivered a turnkey solution for one of the largest network video management projects in Brazil. “Aimetis Symphony is the centerpiece of our network video solution range,” said Jorge Heller, Owner, Redisul.

“It allowed us to meet all of Brasilia International Airport’s video management requirements for scalability, performance and price.”

Initially, Brasilia Airport will install Aimetis

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another step towards a seamless passenger experience as we continue to prepare London Gatwick for future growth and a second runway.”

MFlow Track uses unobtrusive iris recognition technology to enrol passengers, and the technology has facilitated an automated boarding trial for London Gatwick’s passengers with the ability to check in and deposit hold luggage via designated self-service bag drops. For passengers travelling with only hand baggage, the enrolment process will take place at security ticket presentation. The upgraded solution has replaced incumbents and unified disparate systems including barcode scanners since its deployment at the airport, leading to a reduction in operational costs. www.hrsid.com

Symphony to manage 1,000 new and existing analogue and IP cameras, with approximately 20% of the cameras running Aimetis video analytics. The number of cameras is estimated to increase to 5,000 as the airport expands.

Marc Holtenhoff, Chief Executive Officer, Aimetis said, “Our goal, together with Redisul, is to help clients like Brasilia International Airport easily migrate from existing analogue systems to integrated and intelligent IP video management solutions using a single software platform.” www.securitybuyinggroup.co.uk

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EDIT midwich DPS_000_PSI_apr13 18/01/2014 15:36 Page 1

MARKET CONVERGENCE GIVES MIDWICH SECURITY THE EDGE FOR AV AND SECURITY After recognising the convergence of AV and security technologies, Midwich Security has tasked itself with increasing new business opportunities for its customers with a wealth of refreshing new solutions and services. eing part of the Midwich Group – a £200m company with over 30 years’ trading experience – opens up exciting new horizons to customers of Midwich Security, with the vast range of latest technology harmonising perfectly with today’s security products to bring a comprehensive, high-tech, security solution.

Mark Thomas, Director of Midwich’s Security division, is a strong believer in the synergy between today’s AV technology and the security market. He says: “Having the backing of Europe’s premier AV distributor gives us a clear advantage in the market – an advantage we are keen to pass on to the benefit of our customers.”

“As well as exclusive supply deals on market leading technology, we offer a single-source solution on a variety of products that simply cannot be matched. That, together with our

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“As well as exclusive supply deals on market leading technology, we offer a single-source solution on a variety of products that simply cannot be matched”

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wealth of additional services, is what sets us apart in today’s security channel.”

“We can provide anything installers could wish for, from a single camera to a complete videowall install using the latest touchscreen interface and IP technology.”

A prime example of the Midwich Security difference is the ability to supply large-format displays. Not only can these be requested as part of any order, but they are supplied with a three-year, on-site warranty – providing total peace of mind.

To compliment these displays in videowall applications, Midwich Security is proud to be the sole UK supplier of the latest, state-of-the-art Dexon video management system.

With the proven power to manage and switch video on a 46-screen videowall, the Dexon is the ideal solution for monitoring large, multi-camera sites.

Ordered through Midwich Security, Dexon distribution and installation comes with the full support of True Colours – Midwich’s technical and high-end system specialists who have recently been involved in key projects for the Ministry of Defence, as well as Transport for London and London Underground.

With the Midwich Group composing of nine companies specialising in different aspects of AV, electronics and audio, Midwich Security can call upon unparalleled resources to satisfy any requirement.

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EDIT midwich DPS_000_PSI_apr13 28/01/2014 12:38 Page 2

PROMOTION

Another of the group’s divisions - leading audio supply specialist RW Salt - are on-hand to lend their expertise to security projects, supplying Bosch Audio and TOA equipment to compliment any system.

As well as a full range of speakers, evac system products and PA systems, installers can also make Midwich Security a single source for amplifiers, cables and connectivity. Plus, of course, comprehensive advice from RW Salt experts – renowned for being leaders in their field.

With all major manufacturers and latest technology covered, Midwich Security is wholly confident in providing a future proof system. The recent partnership with award-winning American company AMX is an excellent representation of latest technology making things simpler with their cutting edge hardware and software solutions.

Mark Thomas adds: “As installations become ever more complex, we need to provide control solutions that are simple to operate, yet capable of handling extremely difficult tasks. AMX products achieve this and more.

“AMX products can be found in some of the world’s best hotels, conference rooms, homes, classrooms, entertainment venues and broadcast facilities but are equally at home controlling security monitors or any videowall.”

Another string to the Midwich Security bow is the recent addition of access control manufacturer TDSi. TDSi manufactures the full spectrum in access control solutions – from entry level door systems to number plate recognition systems that can automatically log you into your computer on arrival into the company car park.

Getting the right solution for you and your customers is where Midwich Security leaves nothing to chance, with experts at every stage to ensure total satisfaction. Even before any product is mentioned, the attention to detail and dedicated service eliminates mistakes and saves time.

Midwich Security’s technical sales manager Carl Hayesmore provides more detail: “Midwich Security can provide on-site surveys for a full IP surveillance system including network infrastructure. Such is the thoroughness of these surveys that they can be used later to aid in the pre-build of any solution.”

“Our pre-build configuration service is designed to speed up installations and to ensure a full working solution. We are able to have equipment shipped to our Crowthorne facility to be pre-built prior to any installation date.

“In this service we will connect the equipment, set IP addresses, program the required system settings and then label and re-box everything ready to be sent to site. Once installed, we can

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come to site and help with the final on-site commissioning. The pre-build service is available on any projects where peace of mind is required from small network requirements projects to large, big budget projects.”

Midwich Security’s broad span of services is certainly not solely geared towards the larger orders. Indeed their advice and knowledge is proving invaluable for smaller system builds.

The team have perfected the art of migration from analogue systems to full IP compatibility and are happy to assist in any way to ensure installers get the correct system and service for a seamless, hassle-free transition.

Wireless and Mesh systems can provide coverage up to 60km, along with the ability to support any device – from security systems to mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones.

Mark Thomas continues: “The scope for wireless networks is vast and benefits both commercial and consumer sectors. Commercially, a wireless system gives businesses the freedom to physically move departments without the need for costly rewires and re-routing of cables and servers, while at home it provides a totally secure home network to be enjoyed by all the family, on any device.”

“We have a team here at Midwich that are specialists in the true meaning of the word. As well as comprehensive knowledge, they give our resellers the time and dedication they need, advising on complimentary marketing, datafeeds to seamlessly populate websites and bespoke quoting.”

“This personal service, along with the backing and benefits of being part of a market leading distributor, put Midwich Security in a prime position to support your business ambitions with new opportunities.”

“We have a team here at Midwich that are specialists in the true meaning of the word. As well as comprehensive knowledge, they give our resellers the time and dedication they need” For further information call 01379 647500

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EDIT case studies feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 11:44 Page 3

The re-launch of the museum will deploy more than fifty projectors, over thirty displays, five broadcast cameras and more than thirty security cameras

IOC Museum upgrades AV Panasonic System Communications Company Europe has announced a new development in the long-standing partnership with the IOC, as the IOC Olympic Museum is reopened to the general public.

Basedin Lausanne, Switzerland, the IOC museum houses permanent and temporary exhibits relating to sport and the Olympic Games movement. With more than 1,500 exhibit pieces in addition to audiovisuals, multimedia and other speech mediums, the museum is the largest Olympic Games archive in the world and one of Lausanne’s prime tourist sites, attracting more than 200,000 visitors each year.

After twenty years of existence, the institution closed in January 2012 for

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renovations to be completed by the end of 2013. The break in public opening has allowed the museum to look ahead and evaluate how it may offer new experiences for youngsters, families, tourists, researchers, athletes and fans, in order to showcase the legacy of The Olympic Games held in cities around the world.

The re-launch of the museum will deploy more than fifty Panasonic professional projectors, over thirty professional displays, five broadcast cameras and more than thirty security cameras throughout the exhibitions, art gallery, learning zones and hospitality areas of the building. Panasonic technology will play an integral role with new projection capabilities such as projection edge blending, displays and surveillance applications. business.panasonic.co.uk/

EDIT case studies feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 11:44 Page 4

CASE STUDIES

VMS aids integration for schools Milestone XProtect open platform video management software (VMS) is the basis for an integrated security system in the Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). Since each school previously had a stand-alone system, the security was upgraded to connect all 26 buildings in the district on one IP network.

Paul Mahon, Director of Construction and Maintenance for TCAPS, partnered with COMMTECH Design for the integrated solution that has Milestone video surveillance technology as the central core. “Since the Milestone XProtect integration into our school district, we’ve had instances on campus where having a reliable security system has easily reinforced our decision to upgrade,” confirms Mahon.

The Traverse City Area Public School District (TCAPS) covers 300 square miles over three counties in Central Michigan, with thousands of students, teachers and staff. The increased need to protect them and the valuable public property of its 26 buildings prompted a custom security system to enable monitoring all school activity from a central hub that integrates all security systems in the district into one easy-to-use yet effective platform.

Milestone XProtect Corporate software allows authorised staff to monitor for safety, security and disciplinary actions at any time.

“We’ve worked with multiple solutions over the years, each deploying its own stand-alone presence, with pros and cons,” stated Mahon.

“Installing a district-wide solution that’s easy to use, scalable and supports our multiple levels of security ensures the safety of our students and staff, which was the number one priority for this project.”

It is a full-scale, federated security solution that includes video streaming, alarm management, access control via card access systems, emergency panic lockdown abilities, video synchronisation for all the above, and the ability to control each system centrally from one main control unit.

“TCAPS was quite a large-scale design: we had to understand the intricacies of 26 structures that were all unique in their own needs. A vast amount of engineering had to be examined, dealing with the different wiring, ceiling setups and potential monitoring station locations,” says COMMTECH consultant Bret Emerson. “We wanted a solution that allows video surveillance to be integrated seamlessly into all aspects of the district.”

After Emerson’s report on the system’s architecture and design, TCAPS contracted with Windemuller Electric to provide the customised solution, including access control, lockdown and alarm systems. NETech, subcontracted through Windemuller, installed the Milestone solution, ensuring the VMS core of the implementation was tuned for the district. The XProtect software was implemented quickly and efficiently in the school settings, minimising interruption or confusion with the administrators who monitor the hundreds of cameras.

A total of 685 cameras were set up in TCAPS, 397 in Phase II by NETech. Panasonic’s IP WVSw355, WV-SW395 and WV-SF366 cameras were

installed throughout the entire district, in addition to two Arecont AV8185 IP cameras. XProtect’s open platform abilities allow end users to have a freedom of choice in hardware devices. More than 1,500 models of network cameras and encoders from over 100 different manufacturers are supported by Milestone.

Throughout the school district, 19 monitoring stations were established, each with an HP video workstation synchronised with Milestone XProtect Corporate. Four HP ProLiant video servers and an HP StorageWorks MDS600 with 70TB of space round off the system’s storage capabilities. This capacity is important for so much video data: Milestone XProtect Corporate supports an unlimited number of cameras, users and sites, making it a match for TCAPS, who have plans for additional cameras.

“Keeping in mind our plans to expand the system, the server and software are a very important aspect. As of now, our server has the capacity to tack on additional cameras. Using XProtect helps us maintain the work and educational environment when we decide to upgrade. It’s simple, fast and effective,” states Mahon.

Since the security upgrade, there have been instances where school property was reported missing, and those trained to use the system monitored, reviewed and recorded the event. The digital evidence was quickly and easily exported from the Milestone system and provided to the local police department with a built-in viewer.

“At times, we have dealt with vandalism, instances of theft or other security issues regarding publicly owned property outside the school environment. We can easily show the footage to the accused and police to quickly turn around the situation. We are extremely confident in our system and trust that we are keeping the school and all of those in attendance safe,” concludes Mahon. www.milestonesys.com

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dycon ed_000_PSI_apr13 11/09/2013 13:46 Page 1

GENUINE POWERT SOLUTIONS W Dycon is a leading independent British innovator of advanced communication and power products for the security, fire and many other markets.

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e are committed to providing high quality, cost-effective products which meet today’s needs and regulations. We are constantly enhancing our product offering, so that our products are ready to respond to tomorrow’s challenges, be it in residential, commercial or industrial applications.

Dycon has one aim: to present installers and system integrators alike with the highest levels of customer service and satisfaction. We understand our customers’ needs are changing at an ever increasingly rapid rate – our expertise as product manufacturers and designers along with our vast knowledge of the security industry ensure our ability to provide customer excellence.

We are proud of the fact that all our products are UK made at our own ISO9001 site in South Wales where we can personally control the quality and reliability of all Dycon products.

Our extensive product range reflects our wealth of experience in the design and manufacture of security equipment and the Dycon name is your assurance of reliability and quality at all times.

We are the market leader in designing and manufacturing a full range of inventive, energyefficient, “green” switched mode power supply units for applications across a large number of differing sectors including security, access control and CCTV. Dycon pioneered the security industry use of switched-mode technology back in 2004 and have never produced the inefficient linear versions that many manufacturers still offer. Switched-mode operation offers more reliable and longer lasting performance with the added advantage that it substantially reduces the amount of electricity used compared to linear versions and virtually no heat is produced so that cooling fans are no longer required. Typically, a Dycon 1A switched-mode PSU will save at least 250kWh of electricity per annum compared to a conventional linear version and, with energy prices continuing to escalate, businesses can save substantial amounts of money by changing technologies.

Dycon offers genuine power solutions rather than simply a number of power products, all have been developed to cope with specific issues related to that particular industry sector and improve the performance of those systems.

For instance the Dycon CCTV range all operate at 66KHz, which eliminates the image interference often, found when conventional PSUs are used. To make video installation simpler all Dycon CCTV power solutions can be supplied with a variety of different splitters to make connection and cabling quick and simple.

Similarly, the Access Control PSUs all include, as standard, special circuitry, which ensures that

‘spikes’ caused by electric door strikes and releases do not interfere with the system operation.

The advanced PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) range provides a simple way of powering a wide range of network peripherals, removing the need to provide 230v AC power next to these peripherals, and therefore making installation simpler and more economical. Available in 4, 8, 12 and 16-channel versions each offering 35W per channel output, they are supplied in an attractive 2U metal housing and designed to fit to a standard 19” rack mounted.

As the switched-mode technology eliminates the need no cooling fans these units can be fitted into quiet environments such as control rooms or domestic premises. The Dycon PoE range was awarded a ‘Best Buy’ rating by Benchmark Magazine in comparative testing.

Where higher-power conventional PSUs are required Dycon offers 10A or 20A units with 10 or 20 individually fused outputs housed in a 2U metal cabinet that can be desk or 19” rack mounted and matches the PoE versions.

As one of Europe’s leading developers of secure alarm communication products, we also offer a range of simple digital communicators suitable for sending security/fire alarm or plant-monitoring information to a remote receiver or control room.

All have been tested against the latest NGN (Next Generation Networks) specification and operate reliably when used on these network. These units are ideal for replacing existing digicomms that cannot now reliably operate on the new networks, and, in many instances, the existing NVM chip can be used, speeding up installation.

Where installers have to use 3G and 4G equipment, knowing which cells are available and at what strength can reduce the headaches often associated with such installations. Dycon offers the industry-leading solution, the D2376 test meter.

This simple, rugged unit can scan the locality and display all cells available together with their identity and signal strength, installers can then choose the best one for their purpose. A 4G version will be launched shortly to cater for the new networks.

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dycon ad risk sep13_Layout 1 04/09/2013 10:19 Page 1

How does your organisation try to save electricity?

If used 8 hours a day, the one on the left saves 142 kWh every year.

11W

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These can both power your security systems* 24 hours a day.

But the one on the left saves 250 kWh each and every year.

1A conventional linear power supply

*including all your burglar, fire, access control, video and building management systems!

Do the sums for your organisation and then call Dycon on 01443 471060!

Dycon

EDIT products feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 12:15 Page 1

Camera range features 1080P option Axis Communications has launched a number of new cameras; Q6042/-E/-C with Extended D1 resolution and 36x optical zoom, Q6044/-E/-C with HDTV 720p and 30x optical zoom, and the Q6045/-E/-C with HDTV 1080p and 20x optical zoom.

The Q6044/-E/-C PTZ domes have 30x optical zoom, compared with 18x in previous HDTV 720p models. In addition, their light sensitivity is reportedly nearly three times better than the industry norm for HDTV cameras.

They also support electronic image stabilisation, which reduces the effects of camera vibrations (from wind or traffic) to provide clearer, more useful video. In addition, they support automatic defog, which automatically detects fog in the scene and digitally filters it out of view for clearer video.

The Q6045/-E/-C PTZ domes also have better light sensitivity than its Axis Q6035/-E/-C predecessors. Furthermore, they have additional built-in video analytics such as highlight compensation (which masks bright lights for ease of viewing), object removed, fence detector, object counter and enter/exit detection.

The new AXIS Q60 cameras are equipped with a CPU (central processing unit) and co-processor which enable better image quality, with lower noise, higher light sensitivity for sharper images and more efficient video compression with H.264 Main Profile. They also provide improved support for simultaneous streaming of multiple, individually optimised video streams, providing video management systems with increased flexibility and manageable network and storage use. In addition, there is more processing power and capacity for intelligent video applications, which are helpful in alerting and enabling operators to act on potential and actual alarm situations. www.axis.com

A suite of IP security services Reliance High-Tech has launched its 720˚ security offering; a suite of IP services that capitalises on its accredited monitoring capability and the continued growth in networked systems. Reliance 720˚ has combined specialist monitoring technologies and IT support capabilities to provide customers with IP services that have complemented traditional security activities and increase security, efficiency and business intelligence. These include; • System Health and Usage Monitoring – live usage and performance monitoring across networked access and CCTV systems to reduce cost and improve resilience through a pro-

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Narrower depth mounting system announced Custom Consoles is introducing a new model of its Media Wall, the multiscreen mounting system used by broadcasters, in security centres and in industrial process control suites. Available from Q1 2014, the new version features a series of improvements including narrower front-to-back depth, reduced from 600 to 500 millimetres.

“A floorspace saving of 100 millimetres may sound trivial but will be greatly appreciated by many studio system designers,” comments Gary Fuller, Sales Manager at Custom Consoles. “Like its predecessor, the new version of Media Wall is fully self-supporting and retains the option of adding coupling brackets directly to the studio wall. Freely adjustable horizontal and vertical screen spacing replaces the former discretemount mounting holes. This allows individual display screens to be positioned so that their edges meet exactly to form a continuous horizontal monitorscape limited only by the boundary of the display itself.”

Cable management within Media Wall is now along ducts with finger-trunking slots. This combination ensures that all wiring is fully concealed and can enter or leave the structure at any desired point. Integral mains distribution units will be available as an option. Media Wall incorporates height-adjustable horizontal beams suspended between 2.3 metre high aluminium columns. Equipment pods with 19 inch racking behind removable vented panels can be incorporated at floor-level.

Media Wall is available in a silver-anodised or black-powder coated finish and in bespoke widths. www.customconsoles.co.uk active and condition based maintenance regime.

• Environmental Condition Monitoring – monitors critical environments for changes and trends in temperature, moisture, power supply and air quality, ensuring the continued safe operation of facilities and key system components.

• Hosted Access Control – a solution that eliminates the day-to-day cost and risk associated to managing an access control system. This includes a safe and simple on-line card bureau service to manage identities across disparate estates through to complex hosting and storage services. www.720security.co.uk

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TECHNOLOGY

Integration of various vendors Honeywell has announced the latest version of the Pro-Watch security management system which expands the added-value services integrators can provide to their customers. The Pro-Watch 4.1 security management system adds support for Salto disconnected readers and Mercury Security control panels. These enhancements provide users with more options to extend access control to large and remote facilities.

“It’s not uncommon for organisations to have access control, video surveillance and intrusion systems from separate manufacturers,” said Luisa Aymet, product manager EMEA at Honeywell Security Group. “Organisations are purchasing and expanding their security infrastructure as their business needs change. The Pro-Watch platform provides users a seamless way to connect their disparate security systems onto a single management system. Organisations have the flexibility to use or upgrade their existing security systems, and expand those systems as their business grows.”

The Pro-Watch platform is available in four editions: • Pro-Watch Enterprise Edition designed for global enterprises with multiple locations and security systems to manage.

• Pro-Watch Corporate Edition is ideal for large organisation and campuses.

• Pro-Watch Professional Edition provides complete functionality for organisations with up to 64 doors or requiring regulatory compliance.

• Pro-Watch Lite Edition offers basic functionality for organisations with up to 32 doors, as well as Rapid Eye video technology. www.honeywellintegrated.eu

Overhead RFID solution for loss prevention Checkpoint Systems has announced RFID-based EAS Overhead 2.0, delivering inventory visibility and loss prevention benefits at the point-of-exit.

Overhead 2.0 is a key component of an integrated solution delivering real-time inventory and demand-driven replenishment. It serves as an EAS system that alarms and identifies stolen merchandise, improving operations at the pointof-exit while enhancing the customer shopping experience by helping to ensure merchandise availability. The Overhead 2.0 leverages the

www.psimagazine.co.uk

Software lowers the price of integration TDSi has announced the launch of its latest version of its access control software, EXgarde PRO 4.2 which will include full integration with Assa Abloy’s AperioTM wireless locking technology.

The software brings together the elements of physical security in a centralised security portal, enabling the operator to monitor and control physical access whilst incorporating CCTV feeds and emergency alarm triggers. Additionally EXgarde 4.2 also allows an organisation to synchronise its employee database and IT security protocols, via integration with Microsoft Active Directory, with these physical security systems to ensure a fully integrated approach and complete visibility over the assets of the whole business.

EXgarde 4.2 PRO’s central aims are to lower the price point of integration, capture the details of a security event, to alert the security team, and to gather detailed records for compliance and review. In the case of the CCTV integration, users can view live video from any camera within the EXgarde Explorer window, so an incident reported by the access control system or by the triggering of an alarm panel, for example, can immediately be investigated visually.

TDSi’s Managing Director, John Davies, commented, “EXgarde 4.2’s integration with AperioTM offers a new level of remote lock functionality. Working together, the two solutions offer highly precise site activity reporting, centralised alarm management, real-time event and alarm updates, and evacuation reporting – which is vital in the event of an emergency. EXgarde 4.2 and AperioTM also offer an excellent time and attendance reporting solution and door monitoring (forced door and time open) facility that gives a highly accurate view of the overall access situation of any facility.” www.tdsi.co.uk OneTag approach, a single openstandards RFID tag for both inventory visibility and loss prevention, simplifying implementation and reducing tag costs significantly.

Optimised for use by specialty apparel and fashion retailers using RFID for inventory management, Overhead 2.0 is engineered as a standalone exit door solution in new and remodelled stores, or with traditional EAS systems in existing stores as part of a retailer’s RFID adoption strategy. This solution offers high read accuracy through Wirama Radar, a combination of patented hardware and software that ensures unprecedented data integrity; retailers can confidently place tagged items at the front of the store without concern for stray reads causing false alarms.

Overhead 2.0 covers much higher ceilings and wider retail store entrances than the original Overhead solution, making it an even better fit for mall-based speciality retailers and department stores. The hardware is also more compact than previous versions, enabling it to fit in more locations and offering easier installation. www.checkpointsystems.com 25

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TECHNOLOGY

Differentiated access management The most recent update to the SiPass integrated access control system from Security Products from Siemens, version 2.65, allows users to configure multiple access authorisations for card holders and work groups as well as for reservation objects. Users can assign an unlimited number of access authorisations to each card holder, either permanently or temporarily using fixed start- and end-times. The authorisations can be combined as needed. If users modify the access rights of a work group, the changes apply to all card holders in the group.

SiPass integrated 2.65 supports current operating systems such as Windows 8, Windows Server 2012 and Microsoft SQL Server 2012 and offers interactive reporting functions.

Reservation objects such as conference rooms, seminar rooms at universities or tennis courts at sports facilities, can be defined as a collection of access components. Making a reservation is easy: users access a calendar-like interface via the web to quickly view the availability of the components, for example all conference rooms at a site, and then book or edit them.

The user interface for card management is customisable. To increase efficiency and ease of use, the display can be streamlined so that only regularly used functions are shown. If needed, card management and reservations can be handled through a third-party system, for instance an HR system, connected to SiPass integrated via application programming interfaces (API). External hardware, such as digital video recorders, can be controlled via a DVR API. Robust security features protect access via the web client. www.art-of-security.com

Record up to 8 channels of HD IP video The VideoNetBox II from Dallmeier is a compact appliance for the recording of up to 8 IP video channels. With a new, higher performance processor, all eight channels can now be recorded in realtime in HD quality (720p). The perfectly synchronised components also enable fast memory speed.

The SMAVIA Recording Server software for recording audio and video streams is already installed. The corresponding software SMAVIA Viewing Client allows for the independent and convenient evaluation of the recordings over Ethernet (LAN/WAN). It can be run on devices with a Windows XP / 7 operating system and is

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Encoder allows IP migration with analogue technology Siqura has announced the release of EVE, a new range of plug and play video encoders that digitize analogue video signals and send them directly over any IP network. EVE also supports 960H-enhanced video streams. Analogue surveillance systems are closed circuits that tie you to the location where they are used, IP technology, on the other hand, paves the way to full connectivity: it allows users to transfer video to any destination. That means live footage can be viewed in the central control room, while a duplicate stream is sent to a remote recorder or to the mobile device of an operator.

EVE encoders complement this functionality with a number of features that are normally only found in high-end devices, such as 960H resolution, image quality enhancement (motionadaptive deinterlacing, 3D noise filter, fog correction) and proven interoperability with thirdparty systems. included in the VNB II’s scope of delivery.

The pre-installed software SMAVIA Recording Server is designed as an open platform. Together with the according licenses, third-party IP cameras with motion detection can be recorded and configured over the ONVIF protocol. If the installation is to include analogue cameras as well as IP cameras in mixed operation, the VideoNetBox II can be expanded with the optional “Analogue Upgrade Kit” for operating as many as eight analogue channels in hybrid mode.

Owing to its compact design the VideoNetBox II can be mounted on walls, ceilings, or as a base installation on tables or cupboards. And not only does the VNB II require very little space, it is also very easy to install: find a place and screw it in.

Fitting or replacing hard disks has also been optimised in version II, and after opening the rear panel it takes just a few simple steps. www.dallmeier.com

www.psimagazine.co.uk

Project1_Layout 1 27/08/2013 17:04 Page 1

Limitless possibilities

Any lighting condition. Any environment. Any application.

With thousands of IP cameras to choose from, Pelco™ by Schneider Electric™ has the right network-based video surveillance camera for any lighting condition, environment and application.

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EDIT products feb14_PSIxFeb14 28/01/2014 12:16 Page 3

New entry level DTC printer HID Global has added an entrylevel model to its Fargo Direct-toCard (DTC) printer line that provides an easy-to-use, plugand-play solution for printing credentials with low per-card issuance costs. The new FARGO C50 printer is described as ideal for small- and medium-sized businesses, retail organisations and educational institutions who want to eliminate the long waits, shipping charges and issues around flexibility of outsourcing their credential issuance needs to a service bureau.

Craig Sandness, vice president of product marketing, Secure Issuance with HID Global says, “The printer includes everything that is required to quickly and easily create full-colour, personalised credentials, without having to buy or install any additional components, accessories or software. Its affordable hardware and consumables make the C50 direct-to-card printer the ideal introductory solution for emerging markets and smaller organisations, while enabling virtually anyone to print their own credentials whenever, wherever they desire.”

The compact FARGO C50 printer is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, and includes features such as an all-in-one printer ribbon and card-cleaning cartridge that is easy to replace and reload when required. The printer also includes HID Global’s Workbench diagnostic utility that automatically monitors printer health, provides instant system status, and lets users know if and when routine maintenance must be performed. www.hidglobal.com

Easy deployable security platform Tyco Security Products has introduced the Kantech Intevo Compact. This new addition to its line of easy to deploy integrated security platforms is designed to unify access control, IP video and intrusion for small to medium size enterprises.

Measuring 5.4 x 19 x 21.5 cm and weighing in at 1.7 kilograms, the Intevo Compact is compatible with all Kantech controllers and can connect up to 16 American Dynamics’ Illustra Series IP cameras without the cost of an additional license. The Intevo Compact supports H.264, MPEG-4, MJPEG formats and a variety of IP cameras, including megapixel cameras.

Featuring a 1TB hard drive, the Intevo Compact is a cost-

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Large format, ultra short throw projection Until now, businesses that have exploited the advantages of projection and display technology have only been able to imagine large and bright, display screens in a very close proximity to the projector. The arrival of such technology would have implications not only for creating a big visual impact and an almost illusionary experience for viewers, but gamechanging advantages of making projection possible in spaces that would have previously been dimensionally constrained and through the cost saving implication of a big reduced space requirement. The introduction of ETDLE030 lens by Panasonic delimits what was before unachievable through a throw ratio of 0.38:1 - resulting in space saving by 60%.

In terms of new projection applications, it means avoidance of having to throw light across, for example, a busy retail environment where objects or people can block projected images and where space is at a premium. This applies to further verticals such as staging, museum, or transport where it may not be possible to suspend a projector mounting bracket or where there is insufficient space, either in front or behind the projector to throw the image to the required size. panasonic.net

effective solution for both small and medium businesses, with the ability to handle up to 256 doors and 10,000 card users.

Intevo Compact comes preloaded with Kantech’s EntraPass Corporate Edition security management software, including connectivity with the EntraPass Go mobile application and EntraPass Web. The Intevo Compact also seamlessly integrates into a single solution the PowerSeries and MAXSYS alarm panels from DSC as well as a full line of American Dynamics video recording platforms, including the VideoEdge NVR, Intellex digital video management systems, HDVR and ADTVR. Built on Windows 7 Embedded OS, the plugand-play design of the Intevo Compact is simple to configure, saving time and money. The Intevo Compact offers a customised dashboard for system management. Via EntraPass Go, it is also compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android mobile devices. Other key features include 4 USB 2.0 ports, 1 RS-232 serial port and dual display outputs for VGA, DVI and HDMI. www.kantech.com

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TECHNOLOGY

CCTV IP PoE extender

Secure visitor management Bannerbridge’s Visitor and Event Management system is secure technology that is configured around the customer’s specific needs to include software, barcode scanners, choice of printers, bespoke passes (paper or ID card), consumables and an optional touchscreen.

Capabilities include the option to print visitor and contractor passes designed for each business using inbuilt bespoke templates and a pre-book function for visitors, contractors or VIPs which creates a professional image.

For enhanced site security, the optional touchscreen visitor signing-in system is ideal for unmanned reception areas and the reporting suite providing detailed management records. Furthermore a webcam allows users to create and customise photo ID badges. www.bannerbridge.co.uk

MuxLab has announced the launch of the latest addition to its CCTV line of products; the LongReach CCTV IP PoE Extender (500112). The kit allows one CCTV PoE IP camera (up to 15.4W) to be connected up to 1000 ft (300 m) via a single 75-ohm coax cable in a point-to-point configuration to a PoE LAN switch.

The Extender provides for an easy to use surveillance solution for various applications such as campuses, highways, airports, hotels, casinos, prisons, and much more. The 500112 also allows for network connections in harsh electrical areas.

“The 500112 supports CCTV IP PoE cameras up to 1000 ft via coax @ 100Mbps/15.4W,” states Marc Bohbot, MuxLab’s Director of R&D. “With the optional 48VDC power supply we solve the issue of a non-PoE LAN switch.”

The 500112 supports up to 330 ft (100m) on the LAN connection and features LED indicators for power, IP traffic, and 100Mbps. The included wall-mount brackets provide for a quick and easy installation. www.muxlab.com

HD decoder offers video stream options Siqura’s universal HD decoder is designed for retail spot monitor, “public” monitor and control room video wall applications within security systems. It produces two video streams, each capable of driving 1920 x 1080 pixel, widescreen, HDMI monitors and displaying images from up to 10 cameras simultaneously. It is robust and reliable with a highly compact design at just 101 x 101.6 x 50.8 mm.

The universal HD decoder will produce two Full HD 1080p30, or four 720p30, H.264 video streams in addition to multiple lower resolution streams such as D1 and CIF. Multi-codec support, including MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and H.264 compression formats, makes the decoder suitable for most CCTV applications. Both video outputs come with lipsynchronized, stereo audio.

The decoder is designed for security applications and combines a hardware platform with Siqura’s own embedded software. The hardware platform is based on a third generation, Core i3 central processor unit (CPU). Not only does this enable the decoder to produce dual, Full HD video streams, but the platform also allows Siqura to take advantage of newer and faster CPUs as INTEL develops them. www.tkhsecurity.com 29

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INTELLIGENT INTEGRATION

Hugh Hamill, Director of Fire & Security Systems, Boston Networks looks at the shift towards integration and intelligent building systems over IP

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ith IP CCTV forecasted to show continued growth, until at least 2017, it seems that the security industry’s focus will shift to fully integrated IP security systems, incorporating CCTV, access control, intruder detection and other intelligent building systems.

The increasing number of ‘global’ smart cities and the adoption of intelligent building technologies are indeed transforming traditional communication networks and enabling them to be utilised for much more than just data and voice, with the inclusion of security and building control systems. As technology evolves, intelligent building solutions have proven to ease the facilities burden and pave the way for IT and estates to bridge the gap between departments.

Perhaps then it is no surprise then that Frost and Sullivan recently published a report detailing the increase in awareness and expected, considerable, growth of the biometrics market as well as recent news announcements emerging that key industry manufacturers are set to diversify their portfolios, to provide smarter surveillance and access control technologies.

The last twelve months have seen key trends appear within the security industry which have paved the way for the development and further integration of the latest innovations and technologies, set to shape the future market place such as: Falling cost of IP technology – IP security technology has seen dramatic reductions in price over the past few years due to the increasing levels of competition between manufacturers and the seemingly boundless progression of technologies.

The relationship between access and surveillance Integration between previously proprietary systems is becoming more and more common and is now more often ‘expected to happen’ rather than asked ‘if feasible’.

Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) – The integration of multiple security applications, into a single management system, provides complete visibility

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of all systems. Benefits include significant cost savings, ease of installation and operation, enhanced usability and future proofing.

Business intelligence – The adoption of IP technologies, sophisticated Video Management Systems (VMS) and PSIM software has granted security and estates managers a wealth of business intelligence that can be used not only for security but also payroll, student attendance records, health and safety requirements and to provide valuable insight to support marketing and sales.

Video analytics – The capacity to evaluate video footage at a granular level, allows operators to determine specific information about the content of their video. Intelligent analytics can provide early alerts to incidents needing attention and can relieve security staff from having to watch monitors for hours on end.

Remote services – The capacity to enable and disable user’s access to specific areas of buildings or entire campuses remotely has granted organisations significantly higher levels of security. Remote services can allow controllers to simply isolate an intruder or restrict access to an entire building.

Mobile access – The unprecedented, global growth of mobile devices and applications has been fully utilised by the security market to offer users mobile access to analytics and critical footage, thus enabling preventative and reactive measures to be actionable in real time.

Why IP CCTV?

Across varying sectors the shift from analogue to IP CCTV is continuing to accelerate. The benefits are being driven by both advances in technology and integration capabilities and they show no sign of slowing. With IP CCTV, long gone are the days of massive investment with depreciating assets.

Omnipresent and intelligent surveillance acts as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour and theft and enables swift response to any incidents with high quality footage. However CCTV is now used for much more than security, for example providing analytics to help the retail market identify opportunities and reinforce marketing campaigns.

IP security products can be gradually introduced and added to existing systems to create hybrid solutions. With the use of encoders, an evolutionary approach to IP migration negates the high up-front costs associated with analogue systems. Moreover there is no mass ‘rip out and replace’ required which is often not a financially viable option.

Megapixel and HDTV network cameras provide high quality detailed footage and can employ progressive scan for superior image quality, even

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INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS

in scenes with a high degree of motion. In addition HDTV video can be streamed reliably over IP and wireless networks. Moreover, in a fully IP surveillance system, images from a network camera are digitised once and they stay digital with no unnecessary conversions and no image degradation.

ANPR ANPR differs significantly from CCTV. Data is very easy to capture and quick to search and can rapidly identify locations of potential interest. An important difference includes the ability for ANPR to be used so that offenders can be immobilised in real-time.

ANPR systems provide automatic barrier openings for authorised vehicles, whilst logging entry and exit times. Non-authorised vehicles cannot gain access until permission is manually granted to proceed.

Number plate data, along with other data such as location, time and read confidence can be seamlessly logged, encrypted and sent via a fixed or wireless network. Additionally, ANPR systems can be seamlessly integrated in to your main CCTV control room and PSIM platform.

Intelligent Buildings The integration of security systems, with the IT network, delivers a wealth of benefits and the utilisation of IP and wireless technologies drive scalability and cost effectiveness whilst delivering increased levels of resiliency and proving simpler to maintain.

Delivering estates and security managers all the critical information they require to monitor, maintain and protect their assets, employees and data is, in effect, intrinsically weaved in to the role of the IT department, which is being more and more widely recognised and embraced.

Future trends in intelligent building technology will be heavily dominated by security, with the intelligent building market predicted to continue to grow this year, in particular we will see: Early adoption - A greater adoption of the integration of security into Intelligent Buildings at point of construction, allowing for greater cost savings and accelerated interoperability.

Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) - An increase in the demand for PSIM to create truly unified and centralised systems.

Edge CCTV storage – to record CCTV footage locally and reduce the transportation of noncritical information when the network is busy.

Future trends in intelligent building technology will be heavily dominated by security, with the intelligent building market predicted to continue to grow this year

IP access control With the latest access control products combining IP readers and controllers, intercom functionality and remote applications, an entirely multifaceted access control experience is coming to the fore.

With the utilisation of new technologies and the increasing capabilities for multiple system integrations, common Access Control complexities can be reduced whilst streamlining business processes, providing real time critical data and, most importantly, increasing levels of security.

Wireless and IP ID card functionality can enhance security and pride a highly controlled environment. Not only can areas be highly secure and, if desired, entirely inaccessible, an IP solution can provide seamless access to core facilities in a highly controlled and managed way.

Entire and multiple buildings can be controlled from a central location, providing unrivalled levels of access control flexibility and greatly simplified security management processes. An IP solution can be remotely managed offering the functionality to access and change profiles rapidly, adding real value.

Intelligent ID card systems can provide detailed audit trails of users, granting complete control and granular levels of visibility, enabling them to track the movement of students, staff and visitors throughout buildings and campuses and can delete users remotely and securely, if required.

www.psimagazine.co.uk

Smart Integration As a nation, the UK is perceived as a Big Brother society, due to its large volume of CCTV cameras.

However with massive amounts of legacy equipment becoming end of life, now is the time to think smarter and deploy truly intelligent and fit for purpose IP security solutions.

By using intelligent and integrated security solutions, the need to have a multiple cameras covering a given area is no longer the best or only solution. A far more effective approach is to have a single HD camera that will become active upon specific movement, or an alert from an IP access control system.

Moreover the use of ANPR and barrier control technology is another example of where your security estate can work ‘smarter’. With the strategic placement of entry and exit cameras across your estate, you can effectively monitor the entire vehicular activity and reduce the requirement for multiple pan tilt zoom (PTZ) cameras and the hours of footage these would generate.

Using this level of integration and managing and monitoring entire estates with an intelligent PSIM solution can deliver multiple benefits – company wide. However from a purely security perspective, streamlined alarm and access control, pre-defined levels of security, high quality HD footage, smart storage and simplified maintenance is, some say, just the tip of the iceberg.

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