UK boutique hotel operator rolls out standardized surveillance at 14 locations

Editor / Provider: Samsung Techwin | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotels, a luxury hotel franchise in UK with 14 distinctive hotels ranging from bijou boutique to large-scale luxury, located in London, Heathrow, Guildford and Manchester, recently upgraded its more than 700-camera analog video surveillance system with a new standardized analog system consisting of Samsung Techwin cameras and 40 DVRs. The hotel has entered a long term single source supply relationship agreement with Samsung, to equip all its hotels with Samsung video surveillance solution.

The safety of guests and staff has always been the hotel's top priority and Radisson has never hesitated to invest in the latest video surveillance technology. However, this resulted in many different types of cameras and recording devices from various manufacturers being deployed across its hotels. Mohamed Elsebahy, Group CCTV Manager, held a strong opinion that significant operational advantages could be achieved by a process of standardization. The hotel researched whether it would be possible to single source all the components of a video surveillance system from one manufacturer, said Elesbahy.

The starting point for the detailed research as to what products would best match Radisson's demanding requirements was the video recording solution. Although images from the 700 plus domes installed across the 14 hotels can be viewed live at control rooms located at Heathrow and London, the key objective has always been to record activity captured by the cameras so that any incidents or suspicious activity can be investigated, and if appropriate, video evidence can be retrieved and passed onto the police for prosecution purposes.

Samsung's DVR, which can simultaneously record real time images across all of its 16 channels at 4CIF was chosen after a four month trial, however, the hotel required certain adjustments. “We identified from our operational perspective some shortcomings in the list of features available in the VMS that is provided with the DVR,” said Nick Kalsi, Technology Consultant of the hotel. “What we felt was missing was the ability to name the DVRs, make brightness adjustments and also to manage the printing of images via the software.” Samsung customized the DVRs to meet the hotel's specifications.

Images from the 700 domes are recorded at different frame rates depending on the type and level of activity anticipated at each camera location and all of the images are stored for 30 days. So far 200 units have been replaced with either IR internal domes, WDR indoor domes or with vandal-resistant external domes. The remaining 500 units will be replaced in the near future as part of a phased upgrade program.

"Working closely with a single manufacturer has proved to be a great success as they have been able to provide objective advice on the correct camera model for every location,” said Mohamed Elsebahy. Local police officers have also commented that the video surveillance system at Heathrow hotel is one of the most reliable of many hotels on the A4 strip. Radisson is in the process of testing Samsung's NVRs with a view to migrating from an analog based system to a networked IP solution.

State of Mexico bus operator adopts smart ticketing from NXP

Editor / Provider: NXP Semiconductors | Updated: 5/14/2013 | Article type: Component

NXP Semiconductors announced that MEXIBUS - the public transport operator in the federal state of Mexico – has selected MIFARE DESFire EV1 for its contactless smart ticketing solution. The new cards will ensure reliable and secure fare payment across the growing MEXIBUS network. In addition to secure smart card ICs, NXP is also providing the ICs in the new MEXIBUS readers. The ticketing system was integrated by Grupo Indi using cards manufactured by ASK and Inteligensa.

MIFARE DESFire EV1 is a globally proven and flexible product platform for transport ticketing systems, enabling passengers to enjoy better journeys and public transport operators to improve the cost-efficiency and transaction speed of their systems. In addition to public transportation, the MIFARE DESFire platform also allows smart cards to be used for multiple applications such as bike rental, street parking or museum tickets.

Covering the area around the federal district of Mexico City, which itself has over 21 million residents, the federal state of Mexico has experienced rapid growth over the past few years, and now comprises over 15 million people. As the most densely populated region in Mexico, a more efficient and cost-effective urban transportation system is needed that limits the amount of cars on the roads while ensuring mobility in and around Mexico City. Convenient and efficient boarding, as enabled by the NXP solution, encourages the increased use of public transportation for a more sustainable urban life.

Seventeen contactless transport ticketing projects in Mexico are already based on NXP's MIFARE technology platform. The interoperability of these MIFARE-based urban transport systems with the new MEXIBUS system means that Public Transport Operators can offer a cost-efficient ticketing solution allowing passengers to use a single card for all journeys across the city and the federal state of Mexico. The MIFARE DESFire technology platform is also extendable beyond smart cards to other form factors such as NFC-enabled smart phones and banking cards.

“The MEXIBUS network will be extended with Lines 2 and 3 this year, creating the need for a reliable and interoperable ticketing solution that's ready to grow as we develop our mobility services,” said Hector Ilizaliturri, general manager of MEXIBUS at Grupo Indi.

“Electronic ticketing schemes must be convenient, reliable, affordable, secure and expandable to address the transportation challenges of rapidly growing urban areas,” said Jorge Leal, general director at ASK Mexico. “This is why we have selected NXP's MIFARE technology for MEXIBUS's new contactless ticketing system.”

“The world's most populated urban conglomerations such as Bangkok, London, Istanbul, New Delhi and the metropolitan area of Mexico City have all chosen secure, reliable and future-proof MIFARE public transport solutions from NXP to help create smarter and greener cities,” said Ulrich Huewels, vice president and general manager, card security business line, NXP Semiconductors. “Using the MIFARE platform, public transport operators can expand into multi-modal ticketing solutions and offer their customers additional services such as NFC mobile ticketing, micro payment, parking or pre-paid metering.”

According to a recent competitive assessment by ABI Research on Transportation and Ticketing Smart Cards and ICs, NXP achieved an overall transport ticketing market share of 77% in 2012. NXP scored high in both the implementation and innovation categories, underscoring its leadership in transportation and ticketing solutions utilizing NXP's MIFARE technology.

The MIFARE DESFire open architecture platform is based on open global standards for both air interfaces and cryptographic methods. MIFARE DESFire utilizes a triple DES, 3K DES, and AES hardware cryptographic engine for securing the data on the smartcards and data during transmission. Further, the MIFARE DESFire platform enables seamless extensions of ticketing solutions on banking cards or on NFC-enabled mobile devices both working with NXP's SmartMX high security microcontroller technology. The MIFARE4Mobile technology is used to manage MIFARE based services in NFC mobile devices, from over-the-air installation to end-user interaction. The recently released MIFARE4Mobile specifications 2.0 aim to maximize interoperability and scalability, helping existing ecosystems expand into mobile solutions.

Synectics extends contract with UK bus operator Stagecoach

Editor / Provider: Synectics | Updated: 5/8/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Synectics, announced a new three-year contract with Stagecoach, one of the UK's largest bus operators.

Synectics, which has worked with Stagecoach for 10 years, will supply, install and maintain new CCTV solutions across Stagecoach's fleet of vehicles under the continued partnership, worth more than ￡5 million over three years. The contract addresses new requirements, for example from Transport for London, for a higher quality of captured image and increased storage capacity.

“We are delighted to have been chosen by Stagecoach to continue our successful ten year partnership,” said John Shepherd, CEO of Synectics. “The Synectics solution addresses the needs for increased image quality and recording times, along with improved storage capacity. We look forward to working with Stagecoach to further improve passenger safety, reduce crime and combat fraudulent insurance claims over the next three years and beyond.”

Idis appoints Channel Manager for Europe

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 5/8/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Idis announced the appointment of Martin Cowley to the role of Channel Manager based out of the Idis European headquarters in Brentford, London. Martin joins Idis to focus on UK and pan-European distribution sales for next generation DirectIP HD surveillance solutions. Martin will be responsible for leveraging and nurturing new and existing channel partnerships while developing the DirectIP channel-marketing program to drive value for Idis distribution partners. 

Martin brings with him over 20 years' experience in the security industry, particularly in video surveillance, where he is well known for being instrumental in the phenomenal growth of Silent Witness. A relatively unknown entity outside of Canada in 2000, Martin developed the UK channel for Silent Witness contributing to a huge increase in turnover and the subsequent acquisition by Honeywell in 2005. Martin has also held sales management positions at Tecton, Cieffe and Grandeye as well as forming his own consultancy business that helped launch some of the world's leading security brands.

"We are thrilled to welcome Martin on-board,” noted Brian Song, Managing Director,Idis. “Our DirectIP solutions will provide the market what many have been waiting for – simple and affordable networked HD surveillance and Martin will play an instrumental part in our launch next week.”

Idis appoints Senior Sales Manager for Europe

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 4/17/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Idis has announced the appointment of Jamie Barnfield to the role of senior sales manager based out of the Idis European headquarters in Brentford, London.

Barnfield joins Idis to head up direct sales and to establish an effective and experienced sales team for the next generation DirectIP solution suite. Barnfield will be responsible for value-add solution sales to support Idis installers and integrators as well as end-user sales from small businesses through to enterprise-sized organisations from a wide range of markets and environments. Barnfield brings with him nearly twenty years' sales experience in the security industry across IP-enabled video surveillance and security solutions as well as traditional CCTV systems. Barnfield has held sales management positions at The Solutions Group, March Networks, Silent Witness and most recently as sales manager at Risco Group.

“It's an exciting time to be joining Idis ahead of the DirectIP launch and the year in which the industry expects IP sales to outperform analogue for the first time," noted Jamie Barnfield, Senior Sales Manager of Idis. "I'm looking forward to presenting how DirectIP is the cost-effective and simple answer for customers big or small looking for high-definition and fully networked surveillance solutions."

Brian Song, MD of Idis commented, “We are delighted Jamie has joined us as part of our continuing expansion across Europe. Jamie's wealth of experience and skills are instrumental to our ambitions for DirectIP to set the bar for next generation video and define the future of HD surveillance.”

UK parking structure turns into sustainable student housing

Editor / Provider: Assa Abloy | Updated: 4/3/2013 | Article type: Government & Public Services

Developed on a disused exhibition venue and car park in London, the urban regeneration project site, which includes 90 student accommodation units and 0.57 acre (25,000 square feet) of flexible commercial workspace, recently deployed more than 1,000 doorsets supplied by Assa Abloy Security Solutions (AASS).

AASS has supplied a number of security systems and products to the project, set to bring significant environmental benefits to the North West area of London, including its ASSA journal hinges, UNION high security mortise locks, master key cylinders and stainless steel door furniture, plus door closers and timber doorsets from ASSA ABLOY.

AASS developed a bespoke total specification solution that provided balance between accessibility and security at the multi-use venue, which will be used by students, staff and the public.

Fully painted timber doorsets were supplied by ASSA, in colors to match the interior design scheme, guaranteed a high quality and consistency of finish. This also helped to reduce the amount of labor and hazardous materials required on site– critical on such a large project, with multiple uses in the combination of commercial space and student living.

“The development at Blackburn Road is about more than providing student accommodation for the many thousands of students studying in London, it's a chance to improve the environment for the local residents and create more jobs during a tough employment market,” said David Shields, Regional Development Manager for AASS. “Developed on a brownfield site, the surrounding area will also see significant investment, with improvements to pavements, green areas as well as lighting and security for residents.”

UK luxury hotel near Hyde Park reopens with style and security

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 5/3/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

The recently remodeled La Suite West, formerly The Hyde Park Hotel in London, deployed a discreet surveillance system consisting of Axis Communications network cameras to upgrade hotel security and blend in with hotel decor. The luxury boutique hotel is the latest minimalist creation of British designer Anouska Hempel. The system was installed within budgetary constraints by Trident Systems UK, and the products provided by Axis' distribution partner Anixter.

The design of the hotel meant that discreet surveillance was essential and therefore the hotel wanted to upgrade its security system to reflect this. As well as being discreet, the solution needed to produce high-quality images and offer the ability to monitor video streams both on and off-site.

La Suite West has worked with Axis partner, Trident for a number of years to specify and manage the hotel chain's telecoms, networks, security and video surveillance system. The hotel specified IP surveillance cameras and chose discreet fixed dome, recessed-mount fixed dome and HD dome with remote focus and zoom. The HD dome met the high specification required by the hotel, whilst also keeping within budgetary constraints. The system provided discreet surveillance with added monitoring functions, including HD quality images, multi-view streaming and P-Iris.

The system has been flexibly designed to provide numerous benefits to the hotel including, remote access and viewing in real-time, night surveillance, the ability to e-mail images and remote monitoring via smartphones. The discreet but effectively installed cameras are utilized to monitor staff movements and ensure quality control. It has allowed hotel management to have greater control and monitor all of the hotel's operations. It has also been a valuable tool for the food and beverage department as it has been able to use the footage to monitor the kitchen and restaurant floors. An unexpected additional benefit of the system is that it has assisted staff training and allowed the hotel to further improve customer service.

"I didn't realize just how much I had in one system,” said Meir Abutbul, Director of La Suite West. “There are many features and layers and the footage can be analyzed in various different ways.”

“We continue to work with large and small hotel chains across the globe, assisting them with the transition from legacy analog CCTV systems, demonstrating the plethora of benefits with IP-based security systems and helping them strike the delicate balance between the need for effective security measures and the high expectations of their guests,” said Atul Rajput, Regional Director, Northern Europe, Axis. “Hoteliers are really starting to appreciate that IP video surveillance based on open platform standards, offers endless possibilities for integrating into third-party analytic applications that focus on improving business efficiency and performance.”

“For example, IP cameras that have embedded people-counting analytics can allow hoteliers to measure hourly traffic levels and evaluate performance across the whole chain, which is particularly relevant to those hotels that offer public access to their bars, restaurants, shops or fitness centers,” explained Rajput. “The ultra-discreet system provides the hotel with the control it needs to meet future security requirements that is notoriously difficult with analog CCTV systems and allows staff to deliver best practice and provide a safe and secure environment to all hotel guests.”

Idis appoints IP line PM for Europe

Editor / Provider: IDIS | Updated: 3/20/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Idis appointed John Fisk to the role of Product Manager within the sales and marketing team based out of the Idis European headquarters in Brentford, London.

Fisk joins Idis to lead product management including technical support and pre-sales activity for the DirectIP suite of HD video solutions due to be launched at this year's IFSEC International at the NEC, Birmingham, U.K. Fisk will be responsible for technical sales and marketing to support the Idis network of distributors, installers and integrators as well as heading up end-user customer support. Fisk brings with him an eighteen year proven record of accomplishment with expertise across IP video surveillance, traditional analog CCTV and related security technologies. Spending seven years at Norbain in a variety of roles, Fisk has also held management positions at ADI Global Distribution and Samsung Techwin.

"I'm delighted to be joining Idis as the company experiences rapid growth across Europe while at the same time the security industry is at a pivotal stage between the shift from analogue to IP solutions," noted Fisk, Product Manager of Idis. “This is the perfect opportunity to be involved in the launch of Idis next generation video solutions.”

Brian Song, MD of Idis commented, "I am delighted to welcome John on-board during these exciting times. The recent announcements of our DirectIP launch are already changing the conversation in HD video surveillance and we will continue to strengthen and invest in our European operations and infrastructure."

UK bike 'garage' simplifies locker control

Editor / Provider: Salto Systems | Updated: 3/7/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

H2 Bike Run, a gym and bike club with 400 bike-parking spaces for cyclists and runners commuting to work in London's SOHO area, recently had Salto Systems electronic locker locks installed on more than 1,400 lockers in the facility to provide members secure storage. Local partner Ansador Security Solutions installed the locks that can be fully integrated with the Salto access control solution or be operated as a stand-alone system, said Chris Saxby, Sales and Specification Manager.

"Part of the belief was that the lockers had to be flexible enough to allow for change of use patterns, allowing for permanent storage use or variable — maximum 2 hours — use,” Saxby continued. To achieve, this Ansador fitted the locks with nine electronic escutcheon handle sets for European mortise locks, which provided the benefits of full access rights programmable via software, and an automatic audit trail facility to record the last 1,000 events at each locker.

Most OEM lockers are supplied with very basic mechanical locks that offer little in the way of protection. Salto locks solve this problem by offering the latest technology in a simple form factor. “The battery pack, electronic components and locking mechanism are all located on the inside of the locker door, safe from potential vandalism or sabotage,” commented Rex Palmer, Area Sales Manager for Salto.

The access reader is built into the locking handle, and the ID carrier — be it key card, wristband, key fob or bracelet using i-Button, Mifare, Mifare plus, DESfire, DESfire EV1, Ultralight C, HID iClass, Legic, Picopass or SKIDATA protocol — is simply presented to the reader and the lock will grant or deny access. A family option is available for multiple ID carriers to operate a single locker if required. In addition, the ergonomically designed handle is easy to operate even with wet hands, and a durable wipe clean construction is highly resistant to chemicals, UV radiation, physical wear and tear, Palmer added.

H2 founder and owner Piers Slater is already looking at 10 more potential sites in London. With future expansion plans and a possible move to other cities, the flexible lock system can easily grow to meet new requirements from H2.

Mifare making a comeback in Vancouver's green city initiative

Editor / Provider: NXP Semiconductors | Updated: 1/29/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

NXP Semiconductors announced that Canada’s South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority (TransLink) has adopted its MIFARE technology platform for Vancouver’s public transport system. With the introduction of NXP’s MIFARE technology, TransLink can quickly roll out a reliable and secure contactless service across the entire infrastructure to further accelerate use of public transportation in the smart city of Vancouver.

Ranked among the world′s top 5 cities of Mercer′s Quality Living Ranking for four years, Vancouver is pursuing a Green City Plan to address urban challenges including the optimization of transportation over a 30 year period. To achieve its Green Transportation goal of accomplishing 50 percent of all trips by foot, bicycle or public transportation, Translink asked US systems integrator Cubic to create an efficient, secure and future-proof transit system powered by NXP’s MIFARE technology.

Vancouver is introducing the Compass Card, which will enable passengers to enjoy fast, convenient and secure transactions across buses, sky trains and ferries using just one contactless smart card. In addition, passengers can add travel products or values to their Compass Card at vending machines, online, by phone, or at a walk-in customer service centers. The new MIFARE DESFire EV1-based transport scheme including NXP‘s infrastructure solutions is currently being installed.

"Vancouver has identified smart contactless ticketing as a key way to expand the appeal and convenience of its citywide transportation network. Its selection of MiFare DESFire as the technology to deliver this further expands NXP’s footprint in smart cities around the world. ABI Research forecasts the consumption of secure smart card tickets in transportation to grow by 86 percent by the end of 2017", said John Devlin, group director security and ID with ABI Research.

"With urbanization being a significant megatrend in the 21st century, one of the greatest concerns for modern cities is ensuring that residents, vehicles and the economy itself is able to keep moving," says Ulrich Huewels, VP and GM, card security business line, NXP Semiconductors. "NXP solutions can address this challenge by optimizing public transport systems and individual traffic. NXP provides a complete end-to-end solution validated by more than 650 cities worldwide, and used by up to 1.2 billion passengers per day in megacities such as London, Moscow, Los Angeles or Beijing."

The MIFARE DESFire open architecture platform is based on open global standards for both air interfaces and cryptographic methods. In addition to offering data transfer rates of up to 848 kbit/s, MIFARE DESFire utilizes a triple DES, 3K DES, and AES hardware cryptographic engine for securing the data on the smartcards and data during transmission. Further, the MIFARE DESFire platform enables seamless extensions of ticketing solutions on banking cards or on NFC-enabled mobile devices both working with NXP’s SmartMX high security microcontroller technology, leveraging NXP’s leading position in the overall Identification market as well as in market segments such as transport ticketing, access, banking, e-government or NFC.