MicroPower Technologies integrates with Infinova VMS

Editor / Provider: Infinova | Updated: 1/21/2014 | Article type: Security 50

Infinova, a provider of CCTV surveillance solutions announced that its V2217 Series Intelligent Video Management Software has integrated with Helios Surveillance System from MicroPower Technologies, an award-winning provider of surveillance solutions optimized for rapid, cost-effective deployment. The close integration of these industry-leading technologies provides customers of both companies more open system and feature rich options.

Infinova customers can extend their outdoor surveillance coverage by deploying Helios surveillance cameras, which do not require cabling for power or data transmission. The Infinova VMS, an intelligent video management software that enables management and control of live and recorded video in analog and digital surveillance environments, provides a high level of integration with Helios, including support for live viewing, recording and discovery through an intuitive user interface. The VMS is loaded with features, such as support for 48 different languages and Video Analytics, which gives its customers an add-on benefit from the integration.

“This integration is ideal for our partners and end customers who benefit from open, flexible systems,” said Milind M. Borkar, Infinova. “The MicroPower Helios surveillance solution delivers an ultra low-power approach to reduce upfront and long-term costs, and allows our customers to extend surveillance coverage to locations where power and network infrastructure is not readily available.”

End users can play live and recorded video, and seamlessly control Helios cameras using the Infinova VMS. Infinova's open architecture video surveillance and recording solution makes management of video surveillance installations more effective, user friendly and flexible. Together, MicroPower and Infinova enable the deployment and management of video networks that are easy to install, configure and maintain while providing intuitive and reliable control.

VIVOTEK integrated panoramic PTZ technology with AxxonSoft VMS

Editor / Provider: VIVOTEK | Updated: 1/20/2014 | Article type: Security 50

VIVOTEK announced the successful integration of its innovative, a Panoramic PTZ solution with AxxonSoft's next-generation open-platform video management software (VMS), Axxon Intellect Enterprise and Axxon Next. The seamless cooperation signifies increased collaboration between VIVOTEK and AxxonSoft in developing cutting-edge technologies for the IP surveillance market.

VIVOTEK was one the first in the industry to launch the unique and innovative Panoramic PTZ feature in 2012, incorporating VIVOTEK's latest 5-Megapixel fisheye fixed dome network cameras SF8172/72V and a 2-Megapixel full HD speed dome network camera SD8363E. The solution provides a 180° panoramic view or 360-degree surround view without blind spots, allowing users to simultaneously monitor an overview of an area from a fisheye camera and a detailed regional view from a speed dome. The synergy of the 2 makes Panoramic PTZ especially suitable for department stores, station lobbies, airports, casino, parking lots, or any wide open areas where comprehensive monitoring and extreme video details are needed. The design and the originality of Panoramic PTZ have upended the traditional concept of security cameras, receiving accolades such as the German-based GIT 2013 Security Award, the Taiwan Excellence Awards and “The Best Innovation Product Award” from the MIPS show in Russia.

Since its establishment, VIVOTEK has collaborated with international and regional video management software programmers closely to seamlessly integrate camera functionalities onto different platforms. In response to the increasing market demand for Panoramic PTZ, VIVOTEK turned to AxxonSoft to implement a highly cost-effective solution that meets users' diversified needs.

Murat Altuev, President of AxxonSoft indicated, “It is our great pleasure to cooperate with VIVOTEK on the Panoramic PTZ integration project. AxxonSoft, since its founding, has been dedicated to helping end users build highly agile and quality security systems to satisfy versatile commercial needs. Together with VIVOTEK, our esteemed partner, we are creating more possibilities for the security industry and provide end users with safer, more reliable IP-based surveillance systems.”

Steve Ma, Executive VP at VIVOTEK, stated, “From the day we launched Panoramic PTZ, the market has adopted the new trend with success stories from around the globe. Today, we are pleased to announce the successful integration of our innovative Panoramic PTZ solution with AxxonSoft's VMS. The integration undoubtedly increases the compatibility of our Panoramic PTZ and brings increased benefits to the end users.”

LILIN VMS solution tailored for hotel management

Editor / Provider: Sponsored by LILIN | Updated: 1/20/2014 | Article type: Tech Corner

LILIN video management system solution provides services for hotel business including daily video surveillance, employee training aide, vehicle traffic control, average daily customer flow, and hotel security system. LILIN, offers a wide range of network based products including HD IP cameras with high compression rate, panorama network cameras, VD022 video decoder, People Counting analytics, integration video delivery tied in with credit card machine and ePOS (electronic point of sales) system, ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) technology, and CMX (central video management software).

Other than the products and services mentioned above, the high compression rate provided by LILIN is able to help reducing hard drives required. In addition, Sense Up+ technology is able to be applied at the driveway environments and see color video at night, without the use of infrared illuminator – energy saving as a result. Also, Auto Focus technology will help to save relevant labor cost and time consumption, and with all the features listed, LILIN has what it takes to construct a well-thought-out round-the-clock hospitality-specific video surveillance solution.

Application at Reception Lobbies
Check-in concierge level lobbies, main exit and auxiliary exit can adopt FD2452 panorama fisheye camera. Being mounted on the central ceiling area to capture 360° complete surround view or the option to choose install the fisheye camera vertically against the wall in capturing 180° panoramic view. FD2452 has a built-in removable IR cut filter, 24/7 non-stop operation surveillance camera function, and able to see clearly even during nighttime without sufficient lighting support. FD2452 is equipped with built-in microphone, audio recording feature to record customer and staff conversations, and through CMX (central video management) recorder transitioning into AVI files for training purposes. FD2452 panorama network cameras have 1.05mm fisheye lens, de-wrapping hardware technology to recover untwisted true viewable footages.

FD2452 is available to deliver two 180° panoramic view or one 360° surround view + two PTZ view. No loud motor noise and mechanical maintenance issue, which provides flawless check-in counter area footages.

Credit card machine and ePOS system are able to synchronize with CMX recorder via RS-232 transitioning into TCP/IP protocols. All transactions made by ePOS and credit card machine system are recorded for future references and audit-related management.

Hotel's corridors can adopt L series IP cameras with 9:16 aspect ratio Corridor Format for vertically oriented video streams. Compare to general 16:9 recording mode, Corridor Format is about seeing everything in absolute clear view with high resolution rate. Thanks to LD2222 IP camera's compact form factor design, guests will not be bothered by their presence. L series cameras are the ideal selections to be employed at long and narrow hallway areas. Sense Up+ within LD2222, which has high sensitivity in low light condition and no motion blur. Replacement of IR supplement technique at corridor environments, still able to provide color video outputs, this can save a ton of electricity costs for the long run.

Welcoming driveway, main entrance and exit
Welcoming driveway, main entrance and exit, where would require lens can be managed and zoomed. The fully IP-66 water proof certified IPS420ES (outdoor) or IPS520 (indoor) speed domes are designed specifically to be applied in harsh environments, featuring 20X optical zoom lens and superb quality Full HD 1080P video outputs. The speed domes apply PoE (Power over Internet) for convenient configuration while installing the cameras – this can greatly minimize total installation time. LILIN speed dome are perfect to be used in both indoor and outdoor parking facility. With the help of LILIN CMX ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) technology being employed at the vehicle entrance gate, is able to analyze and recognize license plate numbers.

Auto Focus IP cameras
ZD2322 and ZR2322, are designed in a mini glassy dome form factor, 150mm diameter in size, and embedded mounting design are able to fit into restaurants, offices, conference rooms, lounge bars, and upscale retail stores. ZR2322 network camera is equipped with infrared feature, still has the ability to provide top-notch quality video outputs even in absolute no light condition. Z series network cameras have built-in Auto Focus technology, is capable of effectively positioning the cameras at the right focus angle in 30 seconds – this saves at least 40% installation time. Remote focusing feature from a distant location is available as well. Management team at hotels is given options to control zoom-in and zoom-out function after 3X optical zoom lens is installed in place. Z series cameras have a built-in removable IR-cut filter, AGC (automatic gain control) feature to produce usable images, and WDR (wide dynamic range) enhancement feature to accurately display the details of both the brightest and darkest area in a scene.

Eco-friendly Design
LILIN Pro series Full HD IP cameras are equipped with Sense Up+ technology. Eco-friendly energy saving design delivers exceptional video outputs at low light environment. iMEGAPRO series is especially great for parking entrance gate to capture crystal clear image without installing additional infrared illuminator– saves electricity bills on a long-term basis scale.

LILIN Pro series Full HD IP cameras have built-in 3D digital noise reduction (3D DNR). 3D DNR has the capacity to effectively handle the traditional frame-to-frame noise reduction, and at the same time incorporate spatial noise reduction. The entire scene is processed by 3D DNR technology that every part of the image is clear and noise-free. Full HD 1080P resolution only requires 3Mbps bandwidth support; this can greatly ease hard disk space loading. In addition, WDR (wide dynamic range) technology is capable of dealing with direct lighting in the day and near total darkness in the evening. WDR is suitable to be deployed at hotel's main and auxiliary exits to accurately identify incoming and outgoing customers.

Video Management for Managers at Hotels
For hospitality management, LILINViewer application on iOS operation system is an ideal way to create the peace-of-mind for managers who are always on the move to view real-time actual video feed at any time. LILINViewer app pushes the actual video feed of any disturbance and sends accurate and instant notification with an option to view the real-time video playback to assess the situation. LILINViewer is able to synchronize with LILIN NVR, DVR, and IP cameras with built-in SD card redundancy. LILIN's mobile app – LILINViewer, is the most efficient way to assist hotel managers to well manage and monitor hotel daily operations.

LILIN's CMX1108 recorder, is capable of recording up to 108-channel H.264/MJPEG Full HD IP cameras and/or DVR/NVR recorders. CMX1108 has the ability to connect with 108 pieces of IP cameras displayed onto large screen external monitor, and acts as TV Wall application outputs. It is capable to extend many more outputs when coupled with VD022 video decoders. Without using PC device, VD022 consumes only 17W energy saving spec design, to deliver virtual matrix system and manage groups of videos. LILIN developed solutions to satisfy all hospitality-specific needs, and designed with a number of unique features that are easy-to-use. ePOS system is tied in with CMX1108 recorder in such a way that alarms can be raised on events such as till draws being left open.

ANPR
ANPR technology is integrated in CMX recorder – it can read vehicle registration plates. CMX also embedded People Counting analytics, allows hoteliers to measure hourly traffic levels and evaluate performance across the whole chain. eMap feature live video are available in CMX to provide handy tools to manage floors, and automatically provide alarm-related video footage. CMX1108 recorder can help staff at hotel central security department to systematically manage videos and filter out unauthorized vehicles from entering the facility.

NVR404c fan-less design
High-class retail shops, upscale restaurants, and conference meeting centers are the kind of places where need absolute noise-free disturbance. LILIN's NVR404c is designed with no fan, it is an ideal product to be installed in such upper scale facilities. NVR404c is also able to in synch with CMX recorder and provide remote video management.

Hotel solutions provided by LILIN focus on 1) small and exquisite form factors to fit into hotel's decoration style, 2) eco design helps reducing operation and installation costs, 3) video management provides checked in guests receive worry-free stay which they deserve, 4) recorded videos are good education materials for staff training purposes, and 5) via ANPR and People Counting analytics, to effectively manage and summarize customer traffic flow.

Motels, hotels, and resorts can take great advantage of LILIN's surveillance solutions to supply comfort peace of mind environment. LILIN cameras' compact form factor design, guests will feel safer and not to be bothered by their presence. Labor installation costs and operation cost, which LILIN has taken into account at initial designing stage, i.e. Sense Up+ will cutback use of infrared-based cameras, 3D noise reduction technology can efficiently reduce hard drivers usage, eco-friendly VD022 video decoder can use of TV Wall application without depending on a PC, and ANPR technology is able to cross-check vehicle registration plates. LILIN's well-rounded hospitability-specific video management provides all visiting guests and employees at hotel the safest environments.

Sponsored by:
LILIN is a global IP video manufacturer with over 30 years of experience. Throughout the years, the company has maintained its dedication to Creativity, Progress, and Excellence providing expertise in digital video with a strong focus on innovation moving forward.

AxxonSoft introducing Axxon Next VMS at Intersec 2014

Editor / Provider: Axxonsoft | Updated: 1/16/2014 | Article type: Security 50

Intersec, the largest security trade fair in the Middle East.This year the event will be held in Dubai, UAE, January 19-21, 2014.

Intersec makes a perfect meeting point for buyers and sellers and a breeding ground for brave new projects.

AxxonSoft will showcase brand new technologies. The highlight of the exhibit will undoubtedly be the cutting edge Axxon Next video management software (VMS). The free version of this VMS for up to 16 cameras and 1 Tb storage made quite a splash on the market last year and around 500 powered by Axxon Next security systems are installed each week.

the latest major innovation to Axxon Next VMS will be showcasing the following:
* Interactive 3D Map that supports immersion view and Open Street Map;
* Time Compressor, a scene synopsis tool that compiles all motion detection events over a selected time period into a short video clip;
* Seamless integration with fisheye cameras that have ImmerVision lenses. The unique 360o panomorph optics technology from ImmerVision offers a much greater level of detail and situational awareness than traditional panoramic cameras;
* MomentQuest2, a forensic search tool that filters and retrieves video footage of interest in seconds.

The latest version of AxxonSoft's bestselling solution for Physical Security Information Management, Axxon Intellect Enterprise 4.9.0, breaks through to the next level of performance and efficiency. The Intellect PSIM platform now boasts multi-streaming support, the Green Stream bandwidth optimization tool and mobile apps for remote access.

And those interested in video surveillance applications on transport, at banks and retail will definitely flock to the Axxonsoft booth to see ready-made vertical solutions: Face-Intellect, POS-Intellect and Auto Intellect.

Dahua launches all-in-one video surveillance DSS7016D with VMS

Editor / Provider: Dahua Technology | Updated: 1/16/2014 | Article type: Security 50

Dahua Technology, an international manufacturer and supplier of video surveillance products headquartered in Hangzhou, China introduced a revolutionary device DSS7016D, which integrates VMS to the hardware as an all-in-one solution, sparing extra devices and cabling to achieve convenient operation at a lower cost.

The conventional way to deal with video is to employ software plus an independent server while Dahua explores a new approach that combines the hardware and software, which brings more benefits while lowering the cost.

Dahua DSS7016D is based on Linux, which is virus-free and posts no further request for firewall, software and more, in other words, the overall cost is at a great reduction; and its lean design also leads to a low consumption. A single device supports 350 channels@2M, 175 channels@4M and 85 channels@8M real-time recording with 700 Mbps for transmission.

As for the backup, it maximum accommodates 16/24 HDDs to satisfy large data storage, and can also support IPSan for expansion. The N+M redundancy mode further ensures the reliability of the system. What's more, it is equipped with LCD screen, which saves trouble in terms of configuration and maintenance.

DSS7016D provides video management functions such as Preview, Playback, Map, Alarm, PTZ control, intelligent analysis and more. The new UI design and smartphone APP function (DSS Client) all better enhance user experience.

Dahua DSS7016D is suitable for medium- to large-size applications: a single unit can support up to 2000-channel cameras, and it can upgrade to 5-level-cascading with 20 units of DSS7016D at most.

“It took us a year for optimization, including both hardware and software,” said Nathan Chen, Overseas Product Manager at Dahua Technology. “Its transmission capability is among the best around the globe as the streaming server has been constantly improved. We also add some functionality such as dual module hot spare and N+M redundancy to level up its reliability.”

Production efficiency improved by beyond security applications

Editor / Provider: Eifeh Strom, a&s International | Updated: 1/14/2014 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Production efficiency is improving organization and effectiveness in a production facility as well as saving manufacturers time wasted due to errors and money lost due to mistakes. For these reasons, automotive manufacturers are taking advantage of the beyond security applications of video surveillance cameras in their production facilities. Manufacturers are now employing their key capabilities, such as high resolution and interoperability, to help increase efficiency and decrease wastefulness.

Production Efficiency Saves Time and Money
The automotive industry has many stringent requirements when it comes to production processes. Safety must come first when it comes to parts and assembly. Therefore, it is crucial that even the slightest defects be caught before becoming part of a finished product.

Meticulous inspection of a production line, however, can be costly and time consuming, therefore efficiency is key.

The use of video surveillance cameras, for security applications, on the production line to improve efficiency is not a new concept. Nevertheless, as manufacturers become more aware of their benefits and their ability to be equally effective when it comes to improving production efficiency, more manufacturers are looking toward this solution.

Benefits of Video Surveillance Cameras
Traditionally, industrial cameras have been used in manufacturing settings for quality assurance and process control applications. Similarly, video surveillance cameras have typically been used for their video surveillance abilities — monitoring people, ensuring that there are no personnel in restricted zones, recording daily happenings, etc. “Video surveillance ensures safety rules are being followed, tools and equipment are handled properly, and that production personnel comply with defined processes at all times,” said Andrea Sorri, Business Development Director at Axis Communications. However, it has become increasingly more common for manufacturers to combine the use of industrial cameras with network surveillance cameras in manufacturing facilities — classical industrial cameras are used for inspection tasks and network surveillance cameras for process monitoring, according to Ingo Lewerendt, Strategic Business Development Manager at Basler. It is these beyond security applications of video surveillance cameras that have gotten the attention of automotive manufacturers.

Wendi Burke, Director of Marketing at IQinVision, pointed out that “cameras don't take a break, don't have bad days, don't get distracted or fall asleep, they're always on, always performing.” This makes video surveillance cameras, particularly high-resolution HD cameras, extremely beneficial to manufacturers in helping catch costly manufacturing defects and other problems before the problems are repeated.

In a similar way to how video surveillance is used in the automotive industry to enhance production efficiency, IQinVision's high-megapixel cameras have been used in the steel industry. Faults in manufacturing are costly mistakes for steel makers.

Therefore, the Ellwood Group, a US-based steel manufacturer, deployed 250 IQinVision megapixel cameras throughout their 10 manufacturing facilities to not only help with video surveillance, but also with identifying problems during production.

Convenient Integration with Network Cameras
Since a standard IP infrastructure is used in most manufacturing facilities, network surveillance cameras that are built on an open platform can be integrated into a facility's existing system. This is a big advantage of using a network surveillance camera, as pointed out by Sorri. “Network cameras can be easily integrated into industrial manufacturing environments such as production lines to automatically perform visual inspections, to monitor production line efficiency, and to enable remote assistance for maintenance.”

Additionally, network surveillance cameras can support intelligent video processing and video analytics on the edge, they can also be utilized to perform visual inspections for a specific step in a production line, alert the manufacturer to labels missing, caps not positioned correctly, or missing solder.

Another advantage of network surveillance cameras pointed out by Sorri, is that they “can be easily integrated into industrial manufacturing environments such as production lines to automatically perform visual inspections, to monitor production line efficiency, and to enable remote assistance for maintenance.

With over 12,000 employees and annual production surpassing 375,000 units in 2012, this idea of visual inspection was implemented by Axis at the SEAT factory in Martorell, Barcelona, Spain.

In 2011, the SEAT factory became the production house of the Audi Q3, the first luxury car assembled in Spain. The use of barcodes in automotive factories to keep track of parts during the production process is standard. At the SEAT factory, they wanted to take extra measures to avoid delays and facilitate workflow. As a result, over 100 Axis cameras were implemented to complement the existing barcode scanning system for a visual verification system. By taking images of the barcodes that were identified as possibly containing errors, which were then sent to an emergency data-entry computer, the system provides visual verification that serves as a backup to the scanned barcodes. With images of the barcodes, in the event of a barcode scanning error, vehicles do not have to be physically moved by operators in order to be re-scanned. Additionally, the cameras were also used to monitor the transport of car bodies throughout the facility.

Streamlining with Video Management Software
After cameras are in place, that is where video management software (VMS) comes in to help manage, access, and control the images and recordings; however, its usefulness in the automotive industry has helped to not only do the aforementioned tasks, but also streamline and improve the production process.

When Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK was looking to improve production efficiency at their facility, they sought a solution that could not only be integrated with their current set up, but also with over 300 network cameras from various manufacturers to monitor production lines and their facility. Nissan UK has always used machine vision tools, including highly specialized industrial cameras used to inspect individual processes to decide whether the correct part is in its exact location, take precise measurements, and act as “eyes” for the robots. However, these cameras do not give an overall view of a process, as they are designed to focus on one specific movement or task. In order to get a fuller picture, Nissan UK decided to deploy network cameras and Milestone's VMS.

The open nature of Milestone's VMS gave Nissan UK the freedom to view footage from cameras from different manufacturers and capture process faults with live-video monitoring and provide instant recording and playback. This helped Nissan UK prevent production issues and eliminate causes of temporary stoppage on their production lines.

Additionally, the convenience of being able to access images from the cameras via a PC, as well as the ability to compare two videos side-by-side to examine how different employees work on a process, made management of the facility easier.

The overall benefits of the VMS helped to not only improve both the quality and efficiency of Nissan UK's facility, but also gave them a system that could grow with the facility.

To Efficiency and Beyond
Efficiency in any industry is important, but in a competitive, high production industry like the automotive industry, efficiency is paramount to a facility's success. While “lean” practices help manufacturers in all industries reduce waste and boost effectiveness, the additional beyond security benefits of traditional security products, such as network surveillance cameras and VMS, have proven that the security industry is not just about catching intruders and controlling access. Offering additional benefits like production efficiency and workflow management shows that applications of the security industry are endless.

StandardAero takes security to new heights with Honeywell

Editor / Provider: Honeywell | Updated: 1/8/2014 | Article type: Security 50

Founded in 1911, StandardAero is one of the world's largest independent aviation service businesses. StandardAero specializes in maintenance, repair and overhaul for commercial, air transport, military, business and general aviation, industrial aircraft and helicopters. Its 4,000 employees located in 26 facilities in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia serve customers from more than 80 different countries. StandardAero is always looking for a better way to provide excellent service to its customers, from developing proprietary repair processes to redesigning its facilities to make them among the most efficient in the world.

The Situation
There's no doubt about it: operators love their aircraft. When operators bring an aircraft to StandardAero for service, they want to stay with the plane throughout the entire maintenance process. They want to know who's working on the airplane and want to interact with the crew as work moves forward to monitor progress personally.

The challenge faced by StandardAero was how to keep the facility secure while simultaneously ensuring that visiting pilots, directors of maintenance and owners had unrestricted access to their planes. Under the company's old visitor management procedure, a visitor had to remain in sight of an employee escort at all times. While availability of an escort wasn't always an issue, StandardAero customers said they felt the process to be limiting. They worried that they posed an inconvenience to the staff, and felt the escort procedure added cost to the overall repair charges and diverted manpower away from the aircraft.

“We began evaluating security solutions with two goals in mind: It had to be as effective as a physical escort and invisible to our customers. We talked to our customers about what would best meet their needs,” said Melissa Maddox, vice president, legal risk management for StandardAero, “and we set out to develop a solution to balance regulatory requirements with those needs.”

The Solution
Maddox had seen equipment tracked with a chip, showing an asset as a dot on a screen. Her vision was to put a chip in a customer's badge and follow it with cameras. Consultant Mark Pickett of ABET Alliance, LLC, introduced Maddox to Chris Wise from Security 101, and she told him they needed an active system to protect the planes — that was completely invisible to customers. Wise helped turn the vision into reality.

The first time a customer visits the StandardAero facility in Augusta, Georgia, he is given a picture ID badge that is programmed in the Pro-Watch security management system to grant access in authorized areas during his visit. As the visitor moves throughout the hangars, RFID sensors recognize the presence of a badge and activate the Honeywell cameras installed in each zone, and the security operator is able to track him through the facility on monitors integrated into Honeywell's MAXPRO VMS video management system.

The Benefits
Rather than feeling as if they're being followed and watched all the time, the Honeywell system gives StandardAero customers a greater sense of personal freedom and independence when they're in the facility and helps them feel their aircraft is more secure, which benefits StandardAero. “We're thinking of expanding our e-Escort program to our other facilities,” Maddox said, “We've investigated other options but nothing seems quite as effective.”

Additionally, while it remains unobtrusive for StandardAero's customers, the system has gotten the attention of another important audience: the Department of Homeland Security. That agency is interested in implementing best practices for security programs at airports and aviation repair stations in this country and has recently approached StandardAero to see how e-Escort works.

“e-Escort helps us enhance the ownership and operating experience for our customers,” Maddox said. “Honeywell and Security 101 helped us provide the kind of solution expected of StandardAero by our customers.”

Jefferson County Waterway adopts Milestone VMS

Editor / Provider: Milestone Systems | Updated: 1/8/2014 | Article type: Infrastructure

Milestone Systems open platform IP video management software (VMS) is at the center of operational overview for the authorities who handle the Sabine-Neches Waterway running 55 miles through Jefferson County, Texas, to the Gulf of Mexico. This area includes a commercial and military out-load port in the United States and is the fourth largest port in terms of processed tonnage. They need to ensure the safety of those working and traveling through the port, and to keep traffic flowing for the commerce that relies on clear passage.

A vast traffic-monitoring network has been deployed here to ensure that all vessels (civilian, military and commercial) can safely navigate the waters with minimal interference such as collisions or other stoppage. The new surveillance system also monitors the many petroleum refineries that line the channel. Backed by a Verizon Wireless 4G connection, the county cameras along the waterway are networked through Milestone XProtect Enterprise VMS for managing high definition video of live vessel movements and incident reporting from the archived footage.

“Milestone truly is the best IP video open platform on the market. It integrates with all of the cameras seamlessly and provides the sheriff's department with more high definition images for significantly better views of the waterway than their previous system. We now have camera ‘eyes' located on an array of tall locations in challenging environments. Our solution design includes live mobile video on tablets and smart-phones to dispatchers and personnel on watercraft,” says Mark Nolan, Sales Engineer at systems integrator Knight Security Systems.

Vessels range in size from small tugboats to huge tanker ships hauling hundreds of tons of oil and other commodities. When an incident is called in to port security, authorities must assess the situation and respond immediately. Milestone XProtect provides the user interface where reported incidents are checked in the video to determine if the port must close to resolve a situation or can continue operating. Closing the port for any amount of time is an expensive procedure, so having virtual eyes on the scene is imperative to optimal operations.

The previously installed system was very limited - only viewable and navigable in 1 control station building. Knight Security Systems therefore designed and installed a Milestone XProtect Enterprise IP video surveillance solution managing AXIS Q1604 and Sony SNC-ER550 cameras, and more than 8 terabytes of storage to provide 24 hours of archiving. With the Milestone Mobile client, the sheriff's department and port authorities now have instant access to video from anywhere.

The Milestone solution consolidates the 24-hour monitored cameras into 1 centrally managed solution, viewable by all administrators in their offices, in the main monitoring station and on mobile devices. With high-level national security implications, live camera views and the ability to quickly check recorded video is essential to the port's operational standards for efficiency. Every second between an incident report and confirmation of the validity of the report is crucial to the response process.

Protecting the Port
The only ways to access Jefferson County through the waterway is via Sabine Pass or 2 entry points on the Intracoastal Waterway. With an advanced communication system and screening process, no vessel is unaccounted for. The cameras give verification to confirm radio transmissions. The Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) at Port Arthur acts as the “keepers of the gate” aided by the Milestone video management solution, issuing advisories and minimizing blind spots.

“If we pick up a radar blip that's not transmitting an identification signal, it is imperative to identify that blip before it enters the port,” explains Michael Measells, Director of Vessel Traffic Service. “The cameras can do what radar can't achieve - put an eye on a vessel through the Milestone XProtect software, allowing us to know what's moving, from a marine safety and security standpoint. That's the number-one mission.”

Cameras line the river and port entrance, placed in strategic locations from the roofs of buildings to the top of the Verizon Wireless 4G towers. A Jefferson County Sheriff helicopter also hosts a mounted camera ready to be called into action at any time, whether it's monitoring an incident or making rounds.

“We've adapted to the ease of application, connectivity and versatility of the Milestone interface very quickly – it's so easy to use,” says John Moore, Electronics Materials Officer, United States Coast Guard. “Milestone is always up and running, and it loads extremely fast on any mobile operating system. The versatility of our Milestone setup also allows us to remotely provide access to our Sector Command Center in Houston.”

Incident Confirmation and Control
The port is a vital, active entity, responsible for millions of dollars in assets and manpower. If an incident is reported to the Sheriff's Department or Coast Guard, there are established procedures to follow before any response is made. Any event, whether a boating accident, cargo spill or personal injury, has the potential to shut down the channel for an extended length of time.

“This is a high-traffic waterway and with a limited width, there are bound to be close calls and incidents,” says Measells. “It's good to have more eyes on each vessel.”

When an incident is reported, officials must immediately confirm the report. Then the proper authorities are contacted and ground or water personnel deployed as needed. The sheriff's department jurisdiction covers the entire 55 miles of critical infrastructure.

“If I get a report of an incident, I'll pull Milestone Mobile up on my tablet or phone to assess the situation,” says Deputy Chief Mark Dubois, Jefferson County Sheriff. “XProtect helps us respond quickly, allowing us to view video from any cameras immediately, from any location, any time, to confirm or deny an event.”

“We can move from evaluation of a report to initiating a response in a matter of minutes, if not seconds,” Moore adds. “There's time and money there. Once we confirm, all responders' mindsets are immediately shifted into response.”

Hikvision and National Police Agency secure Seoul with PTZ IP cams

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 1/6/2014 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision, along with the Korean National Police Agency recently designed an IP video surveillance system for public safety usage. More than 750 units of Hikvision's DS-2DF7286-A 2MP Network IR PTZ Dome Cameras are installed in Seoul and adjacent suburbs in South Korea. These Hikvision cameras are primarily tasked with coverage of streets, intersections, and other vital infrastructure locations, to provide a safer environment for both vehicles and commuters. This solution also serves as a deterrent against theft and other related crime, as well as a useful aid in police investigations.

Hikvision PTZ cameras provide a 360° endless pan range and a -10° to 190° tilt range of view. These cameras offer a 30x optical zoom capability to help police with observing the required detail needed for distant vehicles and suspicious individuals. Additionally, the PTZ cameras provide surveillance at distances of up-to 150 meters, even in total darkness. One special note is the Smart Tracking function, which helps detect moving objects and follow them within the camera's area of coverage without fault.

Integrated with existing network video recorders and VMS from local suppliers, Hikvision's PTZ cameras provide a total VPMS (Video Privacy Management System) solution. This system represents an irreplaceable tool for the concerned Korean National Police Agency, and ensures that while citizens are being protected, their personal privacy is being not violated.

EverFocus won 4 Taiwan Excellence Awards in 2013

Editor / Provider: EverFocus | Updated: 12/27/2013 | Article type: Security 50

EverFocus' IP cameras, Hybrid mobile NVR solution, and their cross-system integration surveillance platform won 4 Taiwan Excellence Awards in 2013.

Delivered by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), Taiwan Excellence Award recognizes technologically innovative products produced by enterprises in Taiwan. As an award winner for six consecutive years, EverFocus continues to impress.

Instead of getting one award, EverFocus' splendid products received four awards this year. The award-winning products are EverFocus Hybrid Mobile Solution, EAN3300 3MP HD box IP camera, EHN3261 2MP outdoor IP camera, and Genie Cross-System Integration Surveillance Platform.

By combining the capabilities of 3G-Capable Hybrid EMV1600 Mobile NVR, EMW330T IR Vari-focal Lens Mobile Camera and EMN2320 IP Mobile Camera as well as our VMS/CMS software and mobile Apps, EverFocus Hybrid Mobile Solution can fulfill a wide range of user requirements, allowing for pure IP, IP and Analog combination, or Analog-only operation according to customers' needs and industry standards.

EAN3300 is a 3 MP high definition box network camera which delivers high definition image quality with up to 15fps in 2048x1536 resolutions. EAN3300 supports both H.264 and MJPEG multi-streaming. The camera has a built-in slot for a micro SDHC card, providing uninterrupted recording when network system is down. Power over Ethernet (IEEE 802.3af) supplies power to the camera via the network for easy installation with only one cable, eliminating the need for power cables and reducing installation costs. EAN3300 conforms to ONVIF/PSIA for compatibility with other network video devices – even from other manufacturers.

The EHN3261 is a 2 MP auto focus form-factor bullet IP camera, providing 30 fps at 1920 x 1080 viewing resolution with 10X optical zoom lens. The camera supports quad streams from H.264, MPEG4 and MJPEG video compression formats. Equipped with vandal proof IK10-rated and weather-resistance (IP68) housing plus ten IR LEDs for enabling the night visibility of up to 40 meters, the camera meets a wide variety of needs for outdoor surveillance. The camera has a built-in SDHC card slot, providing local recording when the event was triggered. Power over Ethernet supplies power to the camera via the network for easy installation with only one cable, eliminating the need for power cables and reducing installation costs.

EHN3261 conforms to ONVIF / PSIA for compatibility with other network video devices – even from other manufacturers. EverFocus Mobile Applications allows remote viewing of live views of the cameras through handheld devices; or use EverFocus CMS to remotely manage multiple IP devices connected on the network.

The Genie Cross-System Integration Surveillance Platform adopts an open and flexible architecture, and with plenty of integration scalability. The lead time and required resources to customize new features can be lowered dramatically. With the brand new idea of monitoring and manipulating this platform through ordinary web page, it erases the need of program pre-installation to user machine once and for all. Contents and structures displayed in the web page are managed by the host server, thus when adjustments are required, simply set that on the server side and it will apply to all, no updates or settings for user's computer are needed any more.