French shopping mall unifies security management

Editor / Provider: Bosch Security Systems | Updated: 6/20/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

The largest shopping mall in Northwestern France, the Atlantis shopping mall in Saint-Herblain near Nantes, upgraded its stand-alone security systems for video surveillance, access control and intrusion detection to a centrally managed integrated IP-based security system during a major reconstruction between 2010 and 2012. To ensure smooth integration and reliable interoperability, the entire technology should come from a single vendor and be installed by experienced local partners with extensive knowledge of the chosen products. Bosch Security Systems teamed up with system integrator ISO Security and AMR Services to design a customized integrated security solution that comprises of 125 new HD cameras, Bosch VMS, 80 access control readers and intrusion alarm system with about 1,300 detection points that are integrated into Bosch's building integration system for the 10.62-acre (43,000 square meters) shopping mall.

Originally built in late 1980s, the mall has undergone a major reconstruction and enlargement between 2010 and 2012. The mall management decided to take this opportunity to also upgrade their security systems. Rather than the existing stand-alone systems for video surveillance, access control and intrusion detection they wanted to install an integrated security solution based on the IP protocol and centrally managed via a single console and user interface.

ISO and AMR have been long-time partners of Bosch, thus guaranteeing the required expertise. Also, ISO Security had already been supplying video solutions to the Atlantis mall since 2008, including PTZ dome and fixed domes, managed by the VMS. The scope of the new project was to replace existing intrusion detection and access control solutions with IP-based technology, extend video surveillance through installation of 125 new HD cameras and at the same time integrate all technologies into one consistent security solution. It should also lay the foundation for an integrated building management system, comprising security systems as well as public address, heating and air conditioning and control of electricity and water.

During the bidding process, an integrated team of all three companies designed an integrated security system that finally convinced the mall management. But the decision was not only based on the design and the capabilities of the solution itself. It was also heavily influenced by the fact that, with AMR and ISO, the Atlantis mall could rely on very comprehensive expertise on the installer level. The solution was first presented in November 2011, followed by a working demo in February 2012. The installation was then completed by the end of that year.

The intrusion alarm system is a scalable solution for medium-to-large applications. It can connect up to eight sLSN modules with up to 127 sensors or inputs/outputs each for maximum security and flexibility. All programming of the sensors and modules connected to the LSN loop is stored in the panel, avoiding the need to reprogram in case a sensor or module needs to be replaced. The data bus can also be used to connect up to 32 keypads with a maximum of 1,000 users.

In the Atlantis mall, VMS manages cameras throughout the entire mall including public areas as well as individual stores and parking areas. Access control is implemented by means of AMC2 modular controllers and AMC readers. Each controller can control a group of one to eight access points. At Atlantis, AMC controllers and readers protect all restricted areas of the mall from unauthorized access. All the individual solutions support communications via the IP protocol, making it easy to integrate them using the BIS. BIS allows one single operator to manage and configure all the different security systems of the Atlantis mall from one central console with a unified and intuitive user interface.

All security components are integrated and centrally managed via Bosch's building integration system. This is a modular security and safety management system which can be customized to suit users specific needs. Individual modules integrate subsystems such as video surveillance, intrusion alarm, access control, and fire alarm, allowing customers to reduce costs by licensing only what they really need while offering an easy upgrade path, should requirements change in the future. So while the BIS at Atlantis mall is configured to integrate and manage access control, intrusion detection and video surveillance today, it will also allow to integrate other building technologies in the future.

Maldives airport upgrades to Ethernet and panoramic tech

Editor / Provider: Amg Systems | Updated: 6/20/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

The Gan International Airport in Maldives has recently deployed an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of Amg Systems panoramic 360 degree cameras on an Ethernet transmission platform and Wavestore VMS to monitor its executive terminal lounge areas. The Gan International Airport is owned and managed by Addu International Airport.

“Amg has worked with Gan International Airport for more than eight years,” said Leona Hayes, Business Development Manager for Overseas Markets at Amg Group. Being early adopters of analog video surveillance technology, authorities decided to move into IP some time ago to implement an Amg Ethernet technology backbone transmission structure. The camera's electronic-PTZ allows each user to control the camera without interfering with other users, and can be positioned for simultaneous view from eight different locations using multiple-dewarped streams generated from the camera. De-Warping is provided within the camera, which reduces the load on the NVR system. Amg's dewarping SDK provides electronic PTZ during user playback on the VMS. The PTZ streams can be pre-positioned to point to four different directions, such as north, east, south or west or controlled like multiple PTZ domes. Another feature is the cameras have no moving parts, which reduces maintenance costs from wear and tear.

“We have recently adopted a proactive approach to more intelligent surveillance solutions,” said Abdul Mujahid, Senior Technician also acting as Head of Technical Services at Addu International Airport. “ At Gan Airport, we wanted a cutting edge solution, and PanoCam360 delivers all the features and functionality we need. We're currently integrating the cameras with a Wavestore recording solution.” 

Argentinean country club deters crime with IP eyes

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 6/19/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

Founded in 1969, the 235–hectare Los Lagartos Country Club in Buenos Aires, Argentina deployed an integrated IP-based video surveillance system consisting of Axis Communications network cameras, fixed PTZ domes, video server and Netcamera VMS to deter crime at its sports and residential facilities. The club has 616 housing units, 380 families of resident members, and sporting facilities including 27-hole golf course, 30 tennis courts, six fields for soccer, hockey, squash and equestrian facilities and others. Local installer Cameras Overnet implemented began implementing the project in early 2007, and new equipment is currently being added to the system.

With its large surface area and concentrated sporting, social, and cultural activities, this country club found it necessary to install a modern, agile, and flexible video surveillance system that would: Allow for real-time monitoring of events affecting security at access points, perimeters, and public areas to provide greater protection for critical areas of the country club. In addition, the system needs to perform video surveillance from a central monitoring room and facilitate remote access to images captured at various points throughout the facilities. Serve as an additional deterrent to crime that complemented other security systems and allow for the retrieval of archived images for security audits.

A preliminary study was conducted in each sector of the country club to determine the points to be monitored, analyze the current network, and determine the infrastructure needed to achieve the client's security objectives. After the study was completed, the project moved on to the implementation phase and the deployment of the proposed solution. Camaras Overnet professionals also conducted training sessions to ensure that the club's security team was fully prepared to handle all aspects of the new system.
 
In addition, because it is based on an open architecture, the system supports new enhancements and updates. The Axis network cameras, fixed PTZ domes and video server were installed outdoors, equipped with protective housings. A video recording system controlled by Netcamara VMS was also employed.

The club now can control, monitor, and save images captured by cameras at each of the sectors. Cameras Overnet suggested that the solution architecture should be installed in a centralized fashion (several locations managed from one central operating point). This means that live and recorded images from any camera can be accessed from the control center. The level of security at the country club has been significantly improved, which is reflected in a better quality of life.

German facility manager turns to interoperable access control

Editor / Provider: HID Global | Updated: 6/19/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Munich-based Design Offices, a provider of temporary office space rents in Germany has recently deployed an interoperable and scalable access control system consisting of HID Global IP-based card reader and multi-layered security readers. For the project, Design Office partnered with Swiss system integrator, Performance Buildings. Performance Buildings currently operates in Switzerland, Germany and in the USA.

As part of their technology offering for tenants, Performance Buildings and Design Offices were looking for a technology solution provider that met their standards for a secure office access system that was interoperable, convenient, customizable, future-proofed, and at the same time easy to use and delivered cost benefits.

“We're not just offering rooms, we're offering end-users of the office space– tenants or temporary ‘on-demand' end-users of the office space, a secure environment where they can work, meet, hold conferences and provide training sessions in a location where they feel comfortable, and for us, which includes offering all the technological solutions they need in today's modern world,” said Phill Handy, Managing Director from Design Offices.

“So, for example, we wanted to be able to offer 24-hour access to rooms, automated check-in and check-out services but without having to provide staff or all the paper-based procedures,” Handy explained.“We also wanted people to be able to book rooms on the move, so it was critical that easy-to-use online options were available.”

Performance Buildings in Germany selected HID Global products because it was the only company with the ability to support their cutting-edge IT architecture and provide the flexibility that they required. The core solution implemented was an IP-based card reader that meets the demands of open architecture, IP-centric environments and provides fully distributed intelligence and decision making right to the door, leveraging the IT infrastructure to the maximum extent possible.

“The addition of the IP-based card reader provides the access intelligence to do much more than open doors with cards,” said Vishal Mallick, CEO, Performance Buildings. “The fact that it is open and IP-based allows us to integrate the card reader device into our IT-centric architecture and use authenticated credentials to drive lighting, climate and audio visual systems today, as well as room bookings and facility management task allocation in the future.”

In addition, the access control system provided tenants flexibility in using a range of new and existing access card technologies, such as contactless proximity cards and smart cards, or more advanced technology such as NFC smartphones to access the office building and rooms. Office visitors could also be provided access to office workspaces via Performance Buildings touch screen that was enabled by HID Global's IP-card readers to open doors. Furthermore, the IP-based card readers also allowed for cost efficiencies, as the initial investment outlay was reduced through the reader's use of PoE. Finally, HID Global's open architecture based OPIN application program interface (API) was highly cost-effective and required relatively little effort to create a robust integrated solution with the IP-based readers or controllers.

“With its (IP-based card reader) API, it could be easily integrated into our software and installed,” explained Mallick. “Also, HID Global's multi-layer security readers allow us to have one standardized product for the vast majority of buildings due to its interoperability with a range of legacy and existing smart cards in our facility.”

With a robust system that powered Design Offices' shared workspaces, Performance Buildings reported that it had seen a ROI within six-months of their deployment in Munich and improved efficiencies by reducing paperwork thereafter. As the company continues to expand, the use of HID Global solutions will continue to broaden. “We're going to take their combined solutions with us when we move to Dusseldorf, Berlin and Hamburg and we're doing this because it allows us to be more efficient while providing our clients – existing tenants or temporary clients ‘on-demand' with the security, privacy and ease of use that they've been looking for,” said Handy.

Albanian university-hospital complex upgrades to IP-based video surveillance

Editor / Provider: Hikvision Digital Technology | Updated: 6/19/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Founded in 1993, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Catholic university-hospital complex based in Tirana, Albania recently upgraded from an analog camera system to an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of Hikvision Digital Technology network cameras and six NVRs to improve security and ensure physical safety of patients.

Prior to the implementation Hikvision's surveillance solutions, the five-building complex utilized simply analog cameras to address its need for security. However, these analog cameras were unable to capture sufficient details of activities in the video footage. Specifically, face recognition was impossible and even license plates were hard to decipher. Furthermore, security personnel did not have access to the monitoring system. “We considered increasing the number of cameras, but the problem clearly was not the coverage, but rather the quality of surveillance,” said Nikolin Gjonaj, Head of Security at Our Lady of Good Counsel.

Three-megapixel IR bullet cameras were installed in the complex to ensure proper capture of activities on the premises. Detected motion can be configured to trigger alarm. The 3-megapixel outdoor mini dome and 2-megapixel mini dome  boast vandal-proof housing, which gives added physical protection. Like the 3-megapixel IR bullet cameras, these network cameras support the common network protocols, ensuring maximum integration in a complex-wide, and in this case, all five buildings, surveillance system. The three cameras provide the necessary and impeccable image detail to capture activities, including faces of individuals within range, license plates and many other minute details.

To complete the system, the eight channel standalone NVR and 5-megapixel resolution NVRs ensure the detailed camera footages are recorded efficiently and effectively for viewing. Four 5-megapixel NVRs were installed in the monitoring office, enabling security personnel to have full access to the system, while two standalone NVRs were installed in each security guard room. The NVRs were integrated with the entire network via fibre optic cables.

“ Now we can see everything clear from a far distance,” said Gjonaj, who also explained that in the past the large areas and distances among buildings made it impossible to monitor activities. In addition, the cost efficient installation was a much-welcomed bonus to the project. Incidentally, the system is highly scalable and will serve Our Lady of Good Counsel for many years.

Bosch adds global channel partner Synnex

Editor / Provider: Bosch Security Systems | Updated: 6/14/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Bosch Security Systems has selected Synnex, a distributor of IT products and services with global reach, to distribute its security and communications systems solutions. The collaborative effort between Synnex's Visiualsolv Group and Bosch meets the needs of a wide range of channel partners, from physical security and AV integrators to IT resellers, in verticals where Synnex has built strong practices, including Federal government, state and local government, education, health care, small to medium-sized businesses and retail.

 “Synnex's market penetration, technical expertise in our product categories and its program depth in vertical industries with strong growth potential make the company an important new partner for Bosch,” said Jeremy Hockham, President of Sales – Americas, Bosch. “Synnex gives us access to untapped IT customers who are increasingly involved in security and communications projects as the migration to IP-based systems progresses. It also provides the opportunity to broaden our footprint in the public sector with inclusion on its GSA Schedule.”

Physical security remains a top priority for Synnex across vertical markets. A strategic and high growth category, Global video surveillance alone is forecasted to grow to $37.7 billion by 2015, according to a recent Technnavio report. Bosch security technologies available through Synnex include video surveillance, public address, intrusion detection, fire alarms, and access control systems. Its Advantage Line of products geared toward small to medium-sized applications is also included. Synnex provides “staging as a service”, delivering staged, pre-configured cameras to resellers for easy installation.

Communications systems also remain a top priority due to complementary mobility, networking and conferencing services offered by Synnex, which are at the forefront of industry trends. Bosch communications systems technologies include professional audio and conference systems for the communication of voice, sound and music.This includes the Electro-Voice (EV) and Telex brands.

“Synnex continues to make heavy investments in the physical security and communications systems markets with the inclusion of Bosch Security Systems to our technology solutions offering,” said TJ Trojan, Senior VP, Product Management, Synnex. “Our collaboration with Bosch not only expands our physical security and communications systems practices, but provides our resellers best-in-class products and solutions from one of the world's most trusted manufacturers.”

US water facility turns to IP-based video surveillance

Editor / Provider: Indigovision | Updated: 6/13/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority (ABCWUA) in New Mexico, U.S. has deployed an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of Indigovision's network cameras, encoders, and VMS to secure its 300-acre wastewater facility. The system was installed by Indigovision's local partner, Security USA.

Two of the biggest security challenges faced by the Water Authority included perimeter monitoring of a wide geographical area and protection of multiple remote buildings with limited connectivity. Because of the sheer size of the facility, shrinkage had also become an issue with thieves cutting through the perimeter fence with no prevention due to limited security camera coverage. Funding for the project was made available to the Water Authority via a grant given by the Department of Homeland Security due to the high risk, residential location of the facility.
 
The Water Authority did have a small number of existing analog cameras in place. However, the recording quality given by the existing DVR was poor and difficult to expand. In order to have a security system that would last at least 10 years, and would work on an existing network infrastructure, it was decided the new system had to be IP based.

The challenge was finding an IP security solution that could easily be deployed on an existing network over a wide geographical area, with no network bottlenecks. The solution also had to give smooth PTZ control, with high quality live and recorded video, from multiple viewing stations anywhere in the site. Finally the solution had to integrate with the existing analog cameras.
 
Indigovision's IP video security solution was chosen by the Water Authority due to meeting the stringent requirements, and the lower total cost of ownership. In addition to IP encoders being used network cameras were also deployed to monitor new areas within the site. NVRs were used to record video from both the network cameras and encoders with Indigovision's VMS being used to view, control and playback video evidence.
 
"Not only can we now view the video in our main security control room, several additional members of the team can now access video, from anywhere in the site, on their laptops,” said David Montgomery, SCADA Manager for the Water Authority. “With our previous system, this wasn't possible."
 
"Being able to deploy cameras easily in remote locations has given us better perimeter monitoring." Montgomery continued, "As a result, not only do we have a more secure site, we've reduced theft."
 

Moroccan bank rolls out IP-based video surveillance across 250 branches

Editor / Provider: Dahua Technology | Updated: 6/12/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Established in 1964, Banque Marocaine du Commerce et de l'Industrie (BMCI) is a bank based in Morocco with more than 500,000 customers, recently upgraded the surveillance system at its 250 branches to an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of more than 1,000 units of Dahua Technology HD cameras, 250 hybrid DVRs and VMS. Dahua's local distributor Country Technologie supplied the surveillance equipment for this project.

BMCI is a subsidiary of the French financial group BNP Paribas. With expending business and the increased security demands, the bank decided to level up its security system. The bank required the system to be stable, smooth and reliable to safeguard the station 24/7, both indoors and outdoors to offset the hazardous attempts and make speedy effective responses. The bank already had an analog surveillance system in place, but required a new system that offered higher image quality with easier management.

Three to four Dahua 3-megapixel and 2-megapixel HD network cameras, with a hybrid DVR were installed in each branch. The cameras were installed in the lobby and self-service sector, covering the entrance, counter and the ATM kiosk, capturing and rendering crisp and clear image quality with true color reproduction. Dahua hybrid video recorders integrate both analog and network cameras on the back-end, with up to 32TB footage storage. With Dahua VMS running, the whole surveillance region is under good watch.

Honeywell unveils new NVR

Editor / Provider: Honeywell Security | Updated: 6/11/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Honeywell introduces the new and improved release of MAXPRO NVR SE – Rev B Server. The MAXPRO NVR SE hardware model now incorporates 6 removable bays with 1 operating system & storage hard drive and 5 storage only SATA hard drives. Optional storage of 1 TB, 2 TB or 3 TB drives can be addedenabling up to 18 TB of storage capacity.

The single box solution is ideal for medium to large-size surveillance applications, and is part of the MAXPRO Family of IP-based NVRs offering turnkey box solutions ranging from 8 to 32 channels of network video recording as well as software only options that range from 4 to 32 channels. Additionally, the MAXPRO NVRs (Turnkey boxes – XE, SE, PE and Software only) offer:
- Advanced IP video capabilities, which makes them easy to install with only 3-Clicks to Live Video. The system is available pre-installed right out-of- the-box and includes pre-licensed software.
- Support for ONVIF and PSIA interoperability standards, as well as RTSP, and features native integration to cameras and encoders from Honeywell, Axis and other manufacturers—making it a truly open system.
- Honeywell's FREE MAXPRO Mobile app to perform everyday video surveillance tasks from a remote location.

Chinese aluminum product maker monitors production with IP eyes

Editor / Provider: VIVOTEK | Updated: 6/10/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Located in China's Fuzhou Province, aluminum manufacturer Chalco Ruimin, recently deployed an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of 170 VIVOTEK cameras and VMS to monitor the factory and generate footage for operator training. The project was implemented by system integrator KTInfo. Chalco is part of the state-owned enterprise Aluminum Corporation of China, which is the world's second-largest alumina producer.

The camera models installed include PTZ network cameras, network bullet camera  and 7000-series speed domes. Most of the cameras are used to monitor the production process inside plants. Real-time monitoring of the video feeds using the VMS' streaming server allows for quick responses to incidents and equipment failures. Video is also recorded via VMS, archived for review and the aforementioned training purposes. The VMS was chosen for its centralized administration and extensible architecture

As for the specific camera models used, the PTZ network cameras is a D1-resolution box camera, sold mostly in China. According to Wu Ben Chen, Account Manager of KTInfo, this model was chosen for its Sony HAD CCD sensor, which provides superior light sensitivity. "That's important because Chalco Ruimin wanted to capture very clear video, especially for their training purposes, but the lighting was not always the best," said Chen. Dual streaming also gave the manufacturer the flexibility to use one high-resolution stream for recording, and another lower-resolution stream for routine real-time monitoring.

For particularly sensitive locations such as entry and exit points, the 2-megapixel network bullet camera was used. The camera also offers outdoor-specific features like concealed wiring to thwart tampering, weather-proofing, and D/N recording. The 7000 series speed domes, a variety of different models of which have been deployed in a range of different locations, also provide high-resolution video monitoring D/N, along with continuous 360 degree pan and 90 degree tilt, easily controlled manually via a mouse or a joystick, or configurable with presets for patrolling.

Chalco Ruimin is taking advantage of the VMS matrix server, adopting six server machines, each with a four video-out ports for connection to a TV wall, allowing for real-time monitoring at a central control room. The solution enables the security staff to respond to emergency promptly and effectively.

 The VIVOTEK solution-based monitoring system has already proved its worth, providing 24-hour surveillance that was able to pinpoint the cause of an incident in which a vehicle crashed into a loading gate. High-quality archived footage is providing ideal as training videos for new equipment operators as well. Chalco Ruimin plans to continue using VIVOTEK cameras in newly built plants.