Argentinean country club deters crime with IP eyes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flir launches fast thermal cams for R&D applications

Editor / Provider: Flir Systems | Updated: 6/19/2013 | Article type: Security 50

The Flir A35x0sc/A65x0sc-Series are thermal imaging cameras that are equipped with a cooled detector. They are ideal tools for industrial R&D. For those applications that need better image quality, more sensitivity and a higher frame rate than what can be obtained from a thermal imaging camera with an uncooled detector. When higher frame rates and better image quality are required Scientists can choose among the Flir X8000 or X6000 series.

The Flir A35x0sc/A65x0sc-Series cameras are all featuring Mid-Wave Infrared Cooled detectors, thus being able to see through or at materials that no other uncooled Long-Wave camera can, like certain types of glasses or plastics.

The Flir A65x0sc produces crisp thermal images of 640x512 pixels. Users that do not need this high image quality for their application can choose the Flir A3520sc which produces thermal images of 320x256 pixels.

External triggering allows synchronization of the image capture to the most fleeting events. It is also possible to configure one camera to be master and others to be slave for applications requiring more than one camera.

All Flir A35x0sc/A65x0sc-series cameras work on a snapshot mode: all pixels are registering the thermal event simultaneously. In case of moving objects or on motion applications, such cameras can avoid image blur that would occur if a non-snapshot camera would be used.

GigE Vision is a new camera interface standard developed using the Gigabit Ethernet communication protocol. GigE Vision is the first standard to allow for fast image transfer using low cost standard cables even over long distances. With GigE Vision, hardware and software from different vendors can interoperate seamlessly over GigE connections.

The Flir A35x0sc / A65x0sc cameras work seamlessly together with Flir ResearchIR/ResearchIR Max. It allows for viewing, recording and advanced processing of the infrared data provided by the camera. Each camera comes standard with a basic version of Flir ResearchIR.

Axis ranked No. 1 in video encoders and network cameras

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 6/19/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Axis Communications retains its global market-leading position in network cameras and security cameras and has also taken first place in video encoders. This is shown in a new report from information and analytics firm IHS.

“We have further strengthened our position due to our long-term strategy of continuous releases of innovative network video products and the fact that we offer high-quality security solutions in a global market in conjunction with our loyal partners,” says Ray Mauritsson, President of Axis Communications.

“IHS estimates continued high market growth, however, slightly lower than previously, over the next five years. IHS also indicates the market today is more fragmented, with many vendors offering network video products for security solutions.”

Axis is still ranked number one and is global market leader in the network cameras and security cameras categories. The security cameras category includes both analog cameras and network cameras. Last year, Axis further strengthened its market position by taking first place in the video encoders category, a video encoder is a product that is connected to an analog camera, which makes it possible to use the advantages of a network solution.

According to IHS, network cameras will account for more than 50 percent of global surveillance camera sales by 2014. This may be compared to network cameras' share of global sales in 2012, which amounted to approximately 40 percent, according to IHS Research.

Argentinean highway toll booths operator identifies vehicles with smarts

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 6/18/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

Four Aumar-operated toll plazas along the 647 kilometer corridor of highways in the province of Buenos Aires in Argentina recently deployed eight Axis Communications network cameras with Neurallabs ALPR to help identify about 16,000 vehicles that are exempt from tolls or qualify for special rates. The system was designed by system integrator Telectronica.

In July 2011, a new concession was created for highway linking Routes 2, 11, 63, 56, and 74. Within this corridor there are four tollbooths: Samborombón, La Huella, Gral Madariaga, and Mar Chiquita. The Concession Agreement stipulates that users residing within a 10 kilometer radius of a toll plaza are exempt from tolls, and there is a different rate for those who live in certain parts of the coast.

At first, different technologies such as ID cards or RFID tags were considered to meet this need. However, these options involve high investment costs that are difficult to recuperate. It was therefore decided to test ALPR technology with different types and brands of cameras. After several tests, Neurallabs ALPR was completed with Axis network cameras, with image control and shutter control software. Initially eight sets were installed: four at the La Huella toll plaza, two at the Madariaga plaza, and two at the Mar Chiquita plaza.

With the implementation of ALPR technology and Axis IP cameras, Aumar succeeded in automating vehicle identification for most residents within the zone in question, and the system achieved an extremely high recognition rate. Furthermore, the solution allowed the concessionaire to improve both its auditing processes and security.

“At first we were a little skeptical regarding recognition rates and processing speed after everything was integrated into the toll collection system; we even thought that cars might have to stop for the system to recognize and authorize them,” said Claudio Reynaga, System Administrator, Aumar. “But the numbers show us that the recognition rates are excellent, and users can go through the plazas without stopping, just as if there was a free-flow type system in place.”

Following these excellent results, AUMAR evaluated the use of the same technology for other applications. “ALPR technology is very interesting to us and allows us to think of many applications: for example, to measure average vehicle speed between toll stations, or using it as a backup in electronic toll lanes when the device tag is not recognized but the license plate is,” said Reynaga.

Historic Belgian city curbs crime with HD surveillance

Editor / Provider: Avigilon | Updated: 6/17/2013 | Article type: Government & Public Services

With stunning 16th century architecture and its close proximity to Belgium's capital, Brussels, the city of Mechelen has long been one of the country's top tourist destinations. The city recently upgraded its legacy analog video surveillance system that has been in use since 2001 to a HD surveillance system comprised of nine Avigilon cameras, VMS, NVR to safeguard a population of 85,000 people, control crimes and theft in high-traffic tourist areas.

 “Our primary goal has always been to be a safer city for all our citizens and tourists,” said Daniel Dumoulin, police commissioner and IT manager of the city of Mechelen.

In order to make Mechelen a safer place, officials knew they had to upgrade from the classic CCTV system they had been using since 2001. In the past, grainy CCTV camera footage with inadequate zoom features cost the police force countless opportunities to identify criminals or accurately evaluate incidents.

To complement the city's existing CCTV system, the Mechelen Police Department installed nine Avigilon HD cameras ranging from 2 MP PTZ to 29 MP fixed cameras to oversee the outdoor shopping areas within the City Center as well as the exterior and parking lot of the Jewish Museum of Deportation and Resistance. Adding the Avigilon HD surveillance system has enabled police officers in Mechelen to monitor some of the city's highest traffic areas in an organized and efficient manner. With Avigilon 29 MP cameras covering the periphery and all access points of the shopping district, the police are able to get a clear image of every person who enters and exits the City Center. As a result, police officials have been able to drastically reduce investigation time and present indisputable evidence against suspects.

In the past, CCTV cameras were only effective when Mechelen security personnel were alerted of an incident in real time because they were able to adjust the analog PTZ camera and zoom in to try to identify what was happening. But in the cases when the call of the crime came afterwards, the recorded footage was unusable. “A lot of the times, the camera was positioned in a different direction from where the crime occurred, so we were missing a lot,” said Dumoulin. Finding a solution to that problem had the potential to be costly for a city with limited financial resources. “We don't have the same budget as an Amsterdam or cities with millions of people,” Dumoulin said. “You can't afford to put three or four people around the clock surveying your camera system.”

Instead, the local police used Avigilon HD Pro cameras to clearly capture the primary problem zones with a small number of cameras covering all exits and entrances. “If something occurs like a pickpocket or shoplifter, (the thief) has to pass a camera with HD,” said Dumoulin. “Even afterwards, if we receive a call from the shop owner, we can look in the images and using digital zoom, we can still get a good usable image of the criminal."

Construction equipment manufacturer in Brazil monitors 50-acre factory with HD eyes

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 6/17/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

British construction equipment manufacturer JCB recently deployed an HD video surveillance system, consisting of 17 Axis Communications cameras and Digifort VMS , to monitor its new 50-acre factory in Sorocaba, Brazil. Betta Group, an Axis partner, designed the surveillance system for the US$100-million facility, with 9.87 acres of built area.

Ten outdoor cameras from Axis' Q-line were used, including seven PTZ domes and three outdoor network cameras. To monitor indoor areas, the system uses six HD network camera and one discreet HD dome. All 17 cameras are managed by Digifort VMS, from Axis partner Digifort.

The Betta Group video surveillance project met JCB's expectations in maintaining their standard of 100 percent IP devices in the factory, for ease of access and management. The surveillance covers all areas of the outdoor yard, parking lots, logistics facilities, the lake, and the building facade, which has minimal lighting. Images are used not only to ensure asset security but also for third-party monitoring, cargo handling, construction projects in outdoor areas, and for on-the job safety (Internal Occupational Safety Board, or CIPA, for its initials in Portuguese).

One concern that arose early in the project was in relation to data traffic on the network - and how it would reflect in system performance. To answer this question, the Betta Group conducted some simulations with the technical support of the distributor, Delta Cable. The simulated situations included items such as filming time and information aggregation.

“This simulation proved to JCB that, given the architecture of assets and the quality of materials in the optical backbone, performance would remain unchanged,” said Fabio Petrere, Technical and Sales Manager, Betta Group. Then, JCB requested a study to gauge the size of the storage needed. Betta calculated that the amount of information for up to 45 days would be one Terabyte.

Tyco launches 2013 training program in DACH region

Editor / Provider: Tyco Security Products | Updated: 6/17/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Tyco Security Products, part of Tyco announces an inaugural series of in-depth technology presentations and training events for dealers, integrators, monitoring stations and their customers in the DACH region. With 11 events held in Germany, Austria and Switzerland in June and September, the series will offer unique educational opportunities to new customers as well as installers already familiar with the Tyco Security Products portfolio.

The events bring to life several product introductions, including new interactive capabilities from the Visonic PowerMaster system and an expanded IP camera line and revitalized Video Edge NVRs from American Dynamics. These technology advancements demonstrate Tyco Security Products' focus on delivering an intuitive user experience to their customers. An extensive representation of the company's technology portfolio will also be on display, with receivers from Sur-Gard, access control solutions from Kantech and intrusion systems from DSC and Bentel Security

Each event in June will also feature a series of 30-minute presentations where attendees will receive more in depth information from product experts. The short sessions will also provide perspective on upcoming developments within the various product lines.

In September, a one day training session will focus on the capabilities of Visonic's PowerMaster product family and its powerful PowerG wireless technology, ideal for high-end residential premises and commercial installations. The training will provide an overview of the unique innovations of PowerG and new opportunities for installers to enhance operations and increase revenue using the new interactive services.

As a highlight, the events series will also feature the Tyco Security Products demonstration van, a mobile demo unit that functions as a self-contained showcase of the very latest integrated technologies in the Tyco Security Products portfolio. The van features intrusion, video surveillance and access control products and is designed to bring the latest security innovations directly to the integrator or customer location.

Driverless metro in Milan rides on integrated surveillance and evacuation solution

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

Milan's new driverless metro line five which opened earlier this year has deployed an integrated security system that combines video surveillance with public address communication. Ansaldo STS designed the security system, which consists of 400 vandal resistant domes,10-bit digital processing technology, video and audio signal transmission encoders, as well as 10 iSCSI storage units. Ansaldo was supported by system integrator Tyco for this project. The Milan metro is the longest metro system in Italy, with a total length of 92 kilometers and 101 stations has a daily ridership of over one million people.

Due to the peculiarity of the city's ancient and magnificent architecture and the resultant constraints, lines of communication between the single security components needed to be as minimally invasive as possible. This was why the decision was made to install a wireless LAN network to cover the 13 kilometers of line, along with 19 new stations, where video cameras and a public address system needed to be integrated.

The main tasks of the surveillance and evacuation solution were to provide video monitoring and passenger movement control on trains and in stations. This included providing public information while guaranteeing increased passenger control and safety, as well as the management of any system alarms and diagnostics together with continuous event recording. All sub-systems operate independently, even in the event of a network failure or other outage, providing maximum operability and thus maximum security. Finally, all the systems supplied by Bosch were integrated via a SDK in the control room to form one complete solution.

This means that Milan's fully automated M5 line can be controlled by a single operations center, which processes all the information centrally. The center is able to issue all the necessary commands to ensure the correct functioning of the line, the safety of the passengers, timely maintenance measures, and the optimum use of operational personnel (mobile agents). As a result, the Italian city can rely on modern, LAN-based security technology for intelligent traffic control coupled with the highest standard of safety.

Le Mans 24 Hours participant deploys panoramic cams to cover its tracks

Editor / Provider: Wavestore | Updated: 6/14/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Greaves Motorsport, a participant of the 2013 Le Mans 24 Hours in France, has deployed Wavestore 360 degree panoramic cameras in its pit area to allow the company's senior operations and technical personnel to analyze the team's performance when its cars stop for refueling, tire changes or repairs. Greaves Motorsport partnered with Caterham Motorsport at the racing event this year.

The video captured by the 360-degree cameras will be recorded and stored on a Wavestore recording system which will allow the extraction of individual video clips showing activity during each pit stop .The system will be put through its paces at the Official Le Mans Test day on 17th June and then during the whole of the 24 hour race which starts at 15.00 CET on Saturday 22nd June.

The use of 360 degree technology can significantly reduce the number of cameras needed to monitor an area without any blind spots. The ability to create a video clip of a moving object, an individual or a group of people is one of the features provided by Wavestore's 360 recording and de-warping capability. Operators can view de-warped images created from the recorded images and control a ‘virtual' PTZ function to track activity and save video clips of an unlimited number of individual events captured in the camera's entire field of view.

“We have the team, the car and the drivers to succeed and we know what it takes to win in Le Mans,” said Jacob Greaves, Team Manager, Greaves Motorsport. “We are looking forward to the next few weeks in France and to taking full advantage of the innovative features incorporated into the Wavestore solution, which I am confident will help us in our endeavors to perform to our full potential”.