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.

Idis launches bundled VMS

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Idis has announced, during Ifsec International, that it will bundle Idis Center VMS at no extra cost, as part of its DirectIP HD video surveillance solutions. The bundled offering provides customers with a complete VMS to install, configure, integrate and operate DirectIP solutions without licensing fees or complexity.

“VMS has too often become synonymous with cost and complexity within the industry. By bundling IdisCenter we are offering customers a true one-stop-shop solution without the need for expert IT or network skills, nor the cost involved in buying and renewing software licences,” noted Brian Song, MD of Idis.

Idis Center provides customers with plug-and-play management software to install and operate network cameras, NVRs and servers. Through an intuitive user interface very similar to that of traditional analogue systems, users are able to view live video and playback simultaneously. Idis Center further provides real-time event notification to improve incident response times, as well as a panic recording feature. The system provides easy and fast installation and configuration of up to 1024 devices and enables hassle-free maintenance via remote software upgrades.

Song commented, “This further builds on the Idis commitment to deliver simple, cost effective end-to-end HD video surveillance through our DirectIP solutions, all built on the quality and performance Idis customers the world over have come to expect.”

Assa Abloy/Traka launches mobile key management

Editor / Provider: Traka | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Traka, the intelligent access management systems company, has launched Traka Web, a web-based administration suite that allows businesses to control key management systems from mobile devices. Complimenting Traka's existing access management solutions, Traka Web will help improve security and protect assets across organisations with simple administration and the ability to grant/restrict access to multiple items quickly and efficiently.

Traka provides organisations such as the Ministry of Justice with secure key cabinets to store Traka iFobs connected to physical keys. To access iFobs, staff identify themselves at the automated cabinets via PIN, biometrics or smartcard. Each iFob contains authorisation information; thereby ensuring keys are used by authorised personnel only and with full integration capability we can ensure they are returned before staff leave site.

The system also improves auditing – with reports showing which staff accessed which keys, when they were taken and when they were returned. Traka Web will enable managers to monitor key usage from their mobile devices, rather than needing to be on-site.

“Despite the boom in electronic door access, in most organisations, access management for keys is a manual process with keys kept in a box and audited using a paper log book,” explains John Kent, President of Traka. “This relies too much on employee diligence, is time consuming for management and simply doesn't ensure watertight security. Traka Web works with our access management system to help businesses control key usage from anywhere at anytime. Managers can see who has what key and produce auditing reports that can be read on any mobile device - boosting security and efficiency in one sweep.”

Milestone signs on UK distributor Oprema

Editor / Provider: Oprema | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Oprema have secured the rights to distribute Milestone Systems open platform IP VMS as part of Milestone's strategic decision to work with specialist IP security suppliers in the UK. Milestone XProtect software has been keenly welcomed by Oprema's existing client base, and it is anticipated that this collaboration will further new business interest for the Cardiff based security distributor.

Oprema have been championing IP technology for a number of years, and it is for this reason that Milestone has added them to its exclusive UK distributor list. Oprema will offer not only the full suite of software products but will be hosting Milestone Certified and Milestone Professional training courses as the only authorised independent Milestone Systems training center in the UK. The training courses will cater for first time users through to experienced users looking to broaden their knowledge. The training will also include configuration, set up and use of supported hardware.

Milestone was Oprema's desired partner for IP video surveillance software because it is scalable and easy to use. Customers will be able to purchase software licences only or as part of a custom built server solution offered by Oprema.

Oprema's MD Matthew Epps commented, “We are delighted to be offering such a high-end and well regarded product as Milestone XProtect with our IP solutions. The agreement is a significant one for us, and shows how much of an impact Oprema are making in the market place, in moving the trade towards IP by offering cost effective packages as well as high-end solutions to suit any budget and application. Milestone fits in perfectly with its complete range of software options from XProtect Go right through to XProtect Corporate.”

Glenn Fletcher, Country Manager UK & Ireland for Milestone, adds: “Milestone Systems are happy to have Oprema on board as a new UK distributor. They will be able to help with technical training and server designs, leveraging the Microsoft and IP skills that they already have in house. Oprema are also our gateway into Wales as a distributor, which was another key reason for selecting them to be part of our expanding Milestone UK team of partners. We aim to grow together in the coming years as the Milestone open platform VMS approach continues to be embraced in the UK.”

Since the agreement was signed in January 2013, Oprema have successfully won a number of projects with Milestone VMS pre-loaded on Oprema's in-house manufactured servers. This is ensuring that the partnership is a winning combination for UK installers by offering a cost-effective solution with the highest level technology available on the market today.

The next killer app for NFC will not be mobile payments

Editor / Provider: Smart Card Alliance | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

With half a billion NFC-enabled handsets expected to hit the market in the next year, according to an ABI Research report released in March 2013, industry experts agreed that the major first step to broad NFC adoption has been accomplished. But discussion and debate continued as to what the killer app will be to get the technology to take off. Experts concurred in a recent meeting that the next NFC application might not even be mobile payments anymore.

Applications like wine tracking and device pairing that fulfill unmet needs and simplify activities may be the “world-winning NFC solutions,” according to Koichi Tagawa of Sony and Chairman of the NFC Forum. In another example, Tagawa noted that Japanese airlines using NFC can board a 450-person plane in only 15 minutes, as opposed to the standard boarding process for a 150-person plane without NFC in 40 minutes.

Other experts agreed that loyalty programs and offers are great first steps for consumers to use NFC technology.

Lynne Barton, VP of Marketing with Jamba Juice, which has been participating in the Isis Mobile Wallet pilots, said that NFC creates “more meaningful and personal conversations with customers.” She said that she “sees a future with NFC, but it will take consumers a little bit of time to get there,” adding that coupons and offers are “the gateway” to get consumers using the technology.

Lydia Martinez, Store Marketing Specialist at Whole Foods, concurred that “for the short term, loyalty and the value of the couponing is the gateway for people.” She said that the appeal of NFC is to help “drive brand and drive loyalty while giving customers a faster experience.” Martinez described an upcoming holistic marketing campaign where NFC-enabled coupons and loyalty will work with in-store displays and social media to promote local farmers and producers.

NFC should “create, communicate and deliver value to customers,” said Mohamed Awad of Broadcom and Vice Chairman of the NFC Forum. He said that creating value for NFC is about “simplifying with the way we act with the more and more sophisticated set of microcontrollers around us.” To this end, Awad described several use cases where organizations are communicating the value of products to customers by differentiating with NFC, including smart home appliances, interactive games, travel services, opt-in magazine ads, and even tombstones.

Other experts discussed mobile security features that could allow consumers to become more confident in using their devices for more sensitive transactions. Sebastian Taveau, Validity's CTO, described a vision of fingerprint biometrics providing consumers with a fast and secure way to unlock the NFC applications on their mobile devices. Citing that 90 percent of user-generated passwords are vulnerable to hacking due to being stored centrally in the cloud, Siva Narendra, Tyfone CEO said, “Consumers demand convenience and expect security.” Narendra unveiled Tyfone's new Connected Smart Card that enables the secure storage and use of multiple IDs that can be placed in a microSD, a key-chain, an iPhone case, or a wearable device.

But while speakers and panelists didn't reach consensus on what the so-called “killer app” for NFC will be, speakers conveyed the great potential for NFC including mobile payments in the longer term. When asked the question “Is NFC dead?” compared to alternate technologies such as cloud payments, Glenbrook Partners Consultant Allen Weinberg stressed that all these technologies are still in the early days and it is too soon to make judgments on what mobile commerce technologies will be the winners and losers. “At the end of the day, we don't have a widespread, commercialized anything yet,” he said.

Wisconsin electronic parts manufacturer eyes remote security management as marketing and profit-generating tools

Editor / Provider: Matrix Systems | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Norstan, a US electronic parts manufacturer based in Wisconsin, replaced its legacy security system with an advanced security system consisting of biometric time-clock auditing, plus Matrix Systems' mobile surveillance and access control systems to improve profitability and secure doors. Matrix also upgraded the resolution of seven existing Ganz analog cameras, which helped Norstan save US$3,000. The analog cameras were integrated with Geovision software and hardware, and another 10 Geovision high-resolution cameras were added to cover the 3,716-square-meter (30,000-square-foot) facility.

Many CEO's think their security systems are just for opening doors, but John Nordigian, CEO of Norstan, envisioned video monitoring of his plant from anywhere in the world with his mobile phone, and state-of-the-art security technology to  reduce insurance costs, attract and retain Fortune 500 clients. One of the technological challenges during installation was finding a solution that could integrate with its existing five-door HID format key fob door reader system, which would cost approximately $2,800 to replace and install.

Matrix Systems enterprise-based access control system, which uses Mercury and HID access controller subsystems and its open architecture features allowed integration of third party technology. For larger views in remote locations, Nordigian can use a notebook computer, or unlock doors, respond to alarms and most other security functions via mobile apps that connect to the plant's access control system security workstation server from remote locations.

The main challenge, though, was integrating Nordigian's iPhone and Droid-X mobile apps, and his laptop computer into the upgraded video surveillance system.  Nordigian can now monitor any of the company's 17 video surveillance cameras anywhere within seconds through the access control security software using iPhone or Droix-X mobile apps. Matrix Systems built in functionality such as PTZ for closer looks. The CEO finds the iPhone's AT&T network more reliable abroad than the Droid-X's Verizon network, while domestically the iPhone's DGI software loading time and functionality, such as remote operating PTZ capabilities on surveillance cameras  outperformed Android GDA. The remote mobility feature is also capable of temporary access authorization, such as allowing an industrial service contractor into a secure area to repair a particular stamping machine. Future video improvements will include a conversion to IP to integrate into the access control system and add video voice-over to add audio capabilities for instant feedback and communication.

New cameras and digital recording capabilities through the access control system gave Norstan a hedge against illegal dumpers who potentially place illegal materials in the facility's dumpster, which could result in fines or recycling fees. Videos are stored on a NVR for 60 days.The mobile devices are also invaluable for afterhours alarm situations where Nordigian can go online within seconds after receiving an alarm phone call and inspect the entire plant from home or abroad.

Besides lowering operational costs, the new system is also attracting and retaining clients. "After we supplied the detailed plans of the installed the access control and GeoVision systems, a client was impressed with our system and commitment to protecting their on-site assets,” said Nordigan. “As a result, they chose to retain our services versus going to a competitor." Insurance carriers also took notice of the upgraded security system, which enabled Nordigian to negotiate a 10-percent insurance cost reduction.

Adding more functionality to Norstan's security was the impetus for replacing the prior access control system, which stopped providing updates for Microsoft SQL platforms and also crashed periodically. For example, many employee subgroups have been created for various authorization levels. Sensitive area access, such a precious metals inventories, tool areas and IT rooms are now accessible to employees authorized by the system with full audit trails provided by the new access control system. Employees see benefits as well, such as improved protection for personal property such as tools, autos and lockers. The system offers a safer work environment because of its capabilities of terminating potentially disgruntled former employee access just moments after dismissal.

EverFocus launches 16-CH 960H DVR

Editor / Provider: EverFocus Electronics | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Security 50

EverFocus is pleased to announce the launch of its new ECOR960 X1 16 channel, 120FPS 960H resolution DVR, targeting professional users with the highest image quality and the best recording experience. With a superior function set and an affordable price, while still providing critical CE, FCC and UL certifications, the ECOR960 X1 is especially ideal for homes, retails, SMB, and factory surveillance applications.

Thanks to its WD1 (960x480/960x576) resolution capabilities, the ECOR960 X1 digital video recorder gives users of the latest 960H cameras the ability to capture fast moving objects at enhanced detail levels, with a choice of WD1 or D1 formats. The new 16 channel ECOR960X1 also provides an upgrade to the ECOR264 feature set by incorporating 1080p Full HD Video output capability to VGA and HDMI monitors. Also available is an optional built-in DVD burner to preserve evidence and for secure video and data export.

The ECOR960 X1 can be used in complex multi-site installations when paired with powerful EverFocus centralized management software and tools, and is supported by the EverFocus MobileFocus line of remote video surveillance applications on iOS and Android devices, which help easily extend video surveillance from fixed location to mobile environments using a smartphone or pad devices.

Genetec ALPR parking payment system now interoperable with third parties

Editor / Provider: Genetec | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Genetec announced a new Pay-by-Plate Sync feature for AutoVu, its license plate recognition (ALPR) system of Security Center, the Company's unified security platform. The AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync feature allows users to easily consolidate multiple third-party systems into a single parking solution.

With this latest version of AutoVu, Genetec brings the benefits of an open architecture to parking enforcement and management, so customers are no longer locked in to a particular solution. Genetec customers get the freedom to choose various parking technology solutions based on their requirements, and as their needs evolve, they can change suppliers for citations management, parking meters or mobile phones, without needing to re-invest in their enforcement system, ensuring business continuity and minimized costs.

"Most parking-payment systems don't work well together because they simply weren't designed to be compatible-and they usually offer little-to-no levels of integration," said Chris Yigit, Senior Product Manager for AutoVu at Genetec. "With our new AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync feature, we can help our customers easily tie-together their disparate parking systems into one elegant solution."

By simplifying the ability to create an end-to-end pay-by-plate (PBP) solution customers can now select and integrate different vendors that were not otherwise compatible; including suppliers of parking and permit management systems, parking meters and pay-by-phone solutions.

With AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync, it is now also possible migrate to an end-to-end PBP solution without having to replace every single piece of the system. By acting as a central aggregating database, Pay-by-Plate Sync uses the license plate number as the key identifier, enabling more efficient enforcement and parking management-while making parking easy for consumers.

Pay-by-Plate Sync works with a wide variety of parking permit types, including residential permits, university semester permits, employee permits and shared permits, as well as transient parking transactions from pay stations and pay-by-phone systems. Genetec AutoVu supports the following parking technology suppliers: T2 Systems, Cale, Parkmobile, Parkeon, Aparc Systems, Digital Payment Technologies, PayByPhone and Global Parking Solutions. Additional partner integrations, leveraging the Genetec open platform architecture, are being added in the coming months.

Identive/Multicard launches integrated smart card and NFC school admin solution

Editor / Provider: Identive Group | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Multicard, a supplier of credential solutions, identity management and system integration, and a business unit of Identive Group announced an integrated smart card solution that allows schools, universities and other educational institutions to verify student identities, track and report attendance, manage access to campus services and validate students' exam papers. The new student ID solution is based on the latest NFC and MIFARE DESFire EV1 contactless card technologies, ensuring the highest level of security and data validation capabilities, as well as significant ease of use for administrators and students alike.

“Our new Student Identification and Tracking Solution enables educational institutions to upgrade their existing identity management systems and benefit from the greater power, security and ease of use of contactless smart cards,” said Ross Head, MD of Multicard Australia. “We have been working with a number of universities that have assisted and guided us through the key issues that affect them most. The result is an integrated, comprehensive solution that encompasses registering students; issuing personalized student smart ID cards; verifying those ID cards at the door, at the library and for payment, parking and events; and validating exam results.”

Multicard's Student ID and Tracking solution allows educational institutions to interface to their existing student databases, retrieve student data and produce new student IDs based on secure contactless smart card technology. The new student IDs can be verified and logged with a quick tap to an NFC-enabled mobile device loaded with Multicard's mobile application – a portable verification station that can be located anywhere on campus, for example outside an exam room or sporting event. These information logs can be used to collate data for ongoing education credits, to verify attendance or for other purposes. To reduce testing fraud, the student ID cards can be visually confirmed and then scanned along with NFC tags attached to exam papers to track and validate the authenticity of the exam to the identity of the student. All data captured on the local NFC verification devices can later be securely transferred to a central web server where Multicard's management software can generate administrative reports. The solution is flexible and educational institutions can select the features they want initially and add to the system over time.

Tennessee rehabilitation center keeps recovering residents in check

Editor / Provider: Sponsored by Qnap Security | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Recovery Ranch, located in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S., is a special rehabilitation center for clients with addictive, eating or mood disorders, or in need of psychosomatic recovery for improved quality of life. The ranch employs 160 therapists and administrative personnel, serving more than 75 clients at a time, with 24/7 care for different treatments; hence, it is a large facility with residents of diverse backgrounds.

The ranch encompasses two sites: the main campus with two buildings and a new campus with six buildings, individually located one mile apart. On land stretching over 2,000 acres and multiple campuses, it is necessary to have a powerful surveillance system to secure the community and archive records of any incidents that occur. The two original buildings, dated back to late 1800s, were not designed with network wiring. Also, they had unstable power supplies due to the age of the buildings and the location in a rural area, where bad weather could easily cause a power outage. Therefore, wireless became very important, and a good mechanism to sustain system power supply was essential, too.

Moreover, Recovery Ranch required 16 to 18 cameras installed around the campuses and a system able to store videos for two to three months. Prior to the installation, Recovery Ranch surveyed CCTV and DVR solutions, but all lacked advanced management functions and did not have sufficient storage capacity.

Road to Recovery
In the end, Recovery Ranch turned to the Qnap VioStor NVR surveillance system because of its robust, IP-based design and the many unique management features. Two units of VioStor NVR VS-6020 Pro, powered by dual-core Intel Atom processor, were installed on each campus, monitoring 25 VIVOTEK fixed domes and Mobotix fisheye cameras. “Qnap NVRs definitely play a central role in the video security for Recovery Ranch, as this is a one-stop solution that is well-integrated with multiple brands of IP cameras and hence can fulfill very diverse indoor/outdoor monitoring requirements,” said Jeff Chase, IT Manager. “Moreover, the system is very scalable in camera deployment, and with free software updates, it is open to more features at no additional cost, making it a future-proof investment for many years to come.”

The VS-6020 Pro supports high-quality H.264, MPEG-4, M-JPEG and MxPEG recording, and can efficiently stream videos wirelessly while maintaining high-megapixel image quality. In addition, the 6-bay VS-6020 Pro accommodates up to 24-TB storage capacity to satisfy Recovery Ranch's needs of storing videos for up to three months. The VS-6020 Pro also solves the problem of unexpected power outage. With support for UPS devices, the VS-6020 Pro is programmed with USB-connected UPS to ensure 24/7 service. Detailed event logs of system warning, network disconnection and the UPS status are also recorded for diagnosis. What Recovery Ranch favored most was the intelligent video analytics. By using the motion detection algorithm in playback mode, the security administrator can set up areas of interest and time frames for the NVR to automatically find events of interest. It is, overall, less labor-intensive than manually watching each channel at 16x fast-forward play. It is quick to review — for example, an individual, in a specific area, at a certain time of the day — the day's video, and reviewing evidence is more efficient than ever.

Since the two units of VioStor NVR VS-6020 Pro were installed, the ranch has required little maintenance. The Linux-based operating system and RAID storage volume are very reliable; at the same time, it is more power-efficient than running the VMS server on a PC. Therefore, Recovery Ranch does not have to keep the PC running 100-percent of the time. It shows power consumption changes from 200W to 43W (with six HDDs installed) in average, resulting in up to five times of savings in utility. “The VS-6020 Pro is an easy-to-use and intuitive product, enabling the security administrator to fully utilize the features of the surveillance system. We can spend less time on IT, and more time on running the center,” Chase concluded.

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