Axis strengthens N. American business development in financial and gov sectors

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 3/26/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Axis Communications announced the addition of two security industry veterans to its North American business development team: Stephen Joseph becomes Axis' first North American business development manager for Banking & Finance, while John Merlino was appointed as business development manager for Government Programs.

Additionally, to fortify the business development team and plan for continued future growth, Robert Muehlbauer was promoted to Business Development Programs Manager and John Bartolac to Business Development Segments Manager.

Stephen Joseph – Business Development Manager, Banking & Finance
The banking and finance industry has one of the lowest convergence rates from analog to digital video surveillance. Stephen Joseph will leverage more than 30 years of industry experience to drive Axis' educational efforts with banking and finance integrator partners and end-customers to impart the security and operational benefits of migrating from analog CCTV to IP video.

"With the considerable rise of physical attacks in banking and finance, the industry is primed to learn how the adoption of network video and intelligent analytics can expedite investigations while providing new methods of increasing operational efficiencies through system integration with other IP-based platforms," Joseph said. "With the increased pace of technological advancements, I'm excited to be part of an organization that is truly innovative and consistently striving to properly educate the market on IP security."

Since 1981 the New York-based Joseph has worked closely with banking and finance customers while at Tyco Integrated Security. He began his career as a field service technician and was promoted through the ranks to numerous customer-facing positions, including national account manager and, most recently, regional relationship manager.

John Merlino – Business Development Manager, Government Programs
John Merlino joins Axis following two decades of active and reserve Military service in the United States Navy and more than twenty years working in the physical and logical security industry, most recently in a global business development role at Lenel Systems International.

"It's not a matter of if but when the government sector will go all IP," said Merlino. "As the global market leader, Axis has been driving the shift away from outdated analog CCTV since inventing the network camera in 1996. There really couldn't be a more perfect time to join this team and help bring quality products and expertise to a domain already dedicated to protecting our communities and country." 

Business Development Team Organization
Due to increased activity and growth of the North American business development team, Robert Muehlbauer and John Bartolac will manage the Axis programs and vertical segment teams, respectively. Both will continue to report to Scott Dunn, director of business development, and assist with long-term strategic direction and day-to-day team management.

Muehlbauer, who has been with Axis since 1999 and business development manager for the Axis Application Development Partner (ADP) Program since 2009, now also leads the Technology Partner Program (TPP) and Architect & Engineer (A&E) Program teams. Muehlbauer will work together with Vince Ricco, business development manager TPP, and Jack Meltzer, business development manager A&E Program, to drive joint network video solutions with Axis partners.

Bartolac, who joined Axis in 2009, will lead the vertical segment teams in retail, transportation and banking & finance while continuing to work closely on all government initiatives with Merlino. Jackie Andersen and Hedgie Bartol, retail business development managers, Anthony Incorvati, transportation business development manager, and Joseph will continue to drive their respective segments and work with Bartolac on strategic initiatives.

Asia Update: Truen stays ahead with IP speed domes

Editor / Provider: Truen | Updated: 3/25/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

Founded in 2005, Truen's products are used in transportation, broadcasting, security, and city surveillance. Some of its important clients include the highway authority of Korea, the Korea Expressway Corporation (KEC), and major television and radio network Korean Broadcasting System. With various network solutions to satisfy the needs of system integrators (SI), the company is able to form good working relationships with more than 100 local SIs. Aside from possessing high tech development skills, Truen's focus on the domestic market allowed the company to achieve a better understanding of local user requirements.

Though considered a late entrant of the industry, Truen acted as a pioneer in developing advanced technology. Not only was it the first Korean manufacturer to launch H.264 products in 2006, it was also one of the first in the industry to release a series of cameras and servers with 1,080p resolution at 60 frames per second in 2012, providing even higher resolution images in real time, and also surpassing current industry standards. Staying true to its innovative ways, Truen is also one of the first companies who are able to develop thermal IP cameras compliant to ONVIF and PSIA standards. As thermal cameras usually require higherstandards, in terms of algorithm and computing power, very few companies are able to achieve that. Upon the development of this thermal camera, the company is able to create new verticals as different industries realize its use in various applications. Being one of the first ONVIF members, Truen joined the organization in 2010. Within a year of joining, all of Truen's products became ONVIF-compliant.

Truen entered the foreign market in 2007 to market its own brand name, also with small ODM orders. With growing competition from China, Oscar Yoon, Overseas Sales Team Manager at Truen, believed targeting high-end megapixel network speed domes to be the best way to counter Chinese products saturating the low- to mid-end sector. Truen will continue the expansion of its network HD speed dome products portfolio, NVR, and 128-channel VMS. The company also plans to add intelligent functions to its cameras, so it will simultaneously possess both VMS and VCA functions.

In the upcoming years, Yoon said DVR sales will continue to drop and SDI products will face a similar fate. After all, IP surveillance products are the mainstream, with unlimited potential and room for development. Yoon also had high hopes for 3G-SDI, believing it will also have widespread adoption, as it can provide faster transfer rates of uncompressed HD video. Truen's network cameras are capable of transmitting both HDMI and HD-SDI, fitting the standards of the KEC. This user-friendly flexibility is also why Japanese customers select Truen products.

Chinese oil drilling equipment provider shows faith in IP video

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 3/25/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Baoji Oilfield Machinery, a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation has deployed an IP-based video surveillance system to improve management efficiency and strengthen security. Baoji is one of the world's largest land-based oil rig and serial mud pump R&D and manufacturing base. Based on the client's needs, Axis Communications and local partner NetPosa, a digital video product manufacturer, designed a system that incorporates 143 Axis HD 720P domes and NetPosa's server.

Taking into consideration the production plant's expensive machinery and equipment, plant personnel, and potential risks, the front-end cameras had to be effective and stable enough to provide HD images for 24/7 surveillance. In addition, the cameras had to handle difficult lighting conditions, high temperatures and other environmental issues.

To meet these demands, outdoor PTZ domes and fixed HD domes were installed for surveillance and real-time recording. The cameras possess PoE capability, which helped the plant save 70 percent wiring costs by eliminating new cable and wiring installments. Within the plant's existing local area network, a back-end surveillance management system was installed. NetPosa's server manages the digital video data from the cameras, the back-end storage, video forwarding and wall equipment, as well as recording and storage. The centralized platform allows the client's computer to oversee the entire system with a single management account.

The entire system employs a modular management system, enabling compatibility of the new infrastructure with existing surveillance system. At the same time, the client's monitoring needs are met through the employment of various modules, including digital map, real-time surveillance, media services, equipment inspection and alarm linkage. The implementation of open architecture has laid the foundation for future expansion, minimizing development duplication, and reducing unnecessary wastage of resources and time.

IndigoVision integrates with Paxton access module

Editor / Provider: IndigoVision | Updated: 3/25/2013 | Article type: Security 50

IndigoVision has launched its latest integration module enabling Paxton access control systems to be fully integrated into control center, IndigoVision's IP security management software solution.

"This is a significant milestone." said John Semple, IndigoVision's Head of Product Management, "Releasing the 10th access control integration module, integrating the Paxton system into the IndigoVision solution, shows how IndigoVision leads the security industry as the open platform of choice."

Semple continued, "The industry is now demanding completely integrated security solutions. Individual security components, such as analytics, license plate recognition, access control, alarm systems and perimeter detection need to be integrated with video security to provide an easy to manage, fully integrated IP security solution. Our customers tell us that an integrated solution dramatically increases efficiency with alarm management enabling quicker incident response."

IndigoVision's integration modules include systems from multiple manufacturers, including Lenel, Software House, Honeywell and GE. Other external systems such as license plate recognition and advanced analytics can also be integrated into the IndigoVision solution. The IndigoVision integration modules allow a seamless flow of events between the external security system and the IndigoVision solution. These events can trigger a wide range of actions in the IndigoVision solution, including starting recordings, displaying live video, moving PTZ cameras or sending notification emails. In addition, events and video can be effortlessly managed in a single, unified user interface, IndigoVision's control center.

In addition to this IndigoVision Paxton integration module, significant enhancements have been made to the IndigoVision Gallagher and IndigoVision MASC Integration Modules.

Moscow airport watches over cargo area and passenger terminal with 2,100 eyes

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 3/22/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

Moscow's Vnukovo airport installed an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of 2,100 Axis Communications IP cameras to ensure a high level of security and monitor its two terminals. German consultant EcoProg was commissioned to design and implement the integrated security system at the passenger and cargo terminals that cover 32.7 hectares (327,000 square meters). The company has operated as an engineering contractor for Vnukovo airport since 2004.

“Airport security and safety cannot be ensured without installation of an intelligent security system,” said Dmitry Shmakov, Head of the Security Department for Vnukovo Airport. “One such system was installed for the 'A' and 'Cargo' terminals.”

EcoProg installed Axis cameras in the checking and registration zones, passport and custom check areas, lobby, halls, entrances exits, elevators, stairways and parking. The maintenance dispatch center monitors elevators, travelators, cargo conveyors and other process equipment, and automated workplaces. This equipment ensures fast response in case of incidents and helps reduce possible negative effects.

The network cameras pre-recording mode support 30 seconds buffer, while intelligent software supports motion detection, virtual cross-line detection, unattended cargo detection, and identification in check zones and registration zones. If unauthorized persons try to enter the terminal outside of the checking zone, a cross-line detector automatically triggers video recording and initiates transmission of video and audio data to airport security service in real-time.

The cameras also integrate with other security systems, including automatic fire-fighting equipment. When the fire alarm system produces an alarm signal, the fire safety station operator receives images from cameras located closest to the alarm area and evacuation routes. Taking into account the large size of the terminals, the new security system assists in decision-making, differentiation of false alarms and effective evacuation in emergency cases.

Canadian aboriginal center protects cultural heritage discreetly

Editor / Provider: Vivotek | Updated: 3/22/2013 | Article type: Government & Public Services

The Glooscap Heritage Center and Mi'kmaw Museum in Canada installed a video surveillance system in April 2011, to protect assets and monitor visitor traffic throughout the facility. Vivotek's compact fixed dome was chosen by the center's management to monitor the center that consists of an 836.1 square meter (9,000 square feet) multimedia theater, museum, gift shop, and a 436.6 square meter annex for meetings and special events. The center honors the culture and identity of the Mi'kmaq, an aboriginal group of Nova Scotia.

The compact dome is designed for indoor applications, blends in with interior décor and layout. For the project, most of the cameras were mounted in the exhibition rooms to survey people traffic. Other cameras were installed in the entrance of the annex building and inside the gift shop. The HD camera comes with a 1-megapixel sensor enabling viewing resolution of 1280 x 800 at 30 fps. The camera also has a built-in MicroSD/ SDHC card slot for on-board storage, which allows recording to take place independently on the camera.

With VIVOTEK VMS, the administrator is provided with a complete overview of all cameras installed in the facility. All compatible video standards, H.264, MPEG-4 and MJPEG, implemented on the camera allow the video stream to be individually configured and transmitted to meet different requirements and constraints for versatile applications.

"We are very happy with the VIVOTEK cameras," remarked Sharon Touchie, GM of Glooscap. "Having high resolution video throughout the facility has been a huge boost for us in providing safety and security for our visitors when they come to learn about the richness of Mi'kmaw culture."

Milestone releases lean VMS for embedded, out-of-the-box solutions

Editor / Provider: Milestone Systems | Updated: 3/22/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Milestone Systems announces Milestone Arcus: an embedded video surveillance platform for low-complexity, low-cost security installations. Milestone Arcus runs on Linux, Mac OSX and Windows related operating systems, within network storage and cameras or other devices on the edge. This is a significant differentiator in today's security market offerings. Hardware partners embedding Milestone Arcus in any kind of hardware form factor will be able to offer a streamlined, video management tool that is simple and easy to install – at very competitive price points.

Milestone Arcus is a multi-platform VMS solution for hardware vendors to embed in their products, to be sold by their channels as an out-of-the-box solution, ready to use. These embedded solutions will be co-branded with Milestone to let customers know they are getting the best in video surveillance. Milestone Arcus is the most lean, yet high-performance product in the Milestone portfolio, which up to now has been Milestone XProtect VMS offerings that run on Windows and are sold by the worldwide Milestone Systems network of channel partners.

Milestone Arcus is a brand-new VMS product with new development code in its core that takes advantage of the company's 15 years of experience in video surveillance technology. It is the first delivery from Milestone's new Incubation & Ventures business unit that was created in 2012.

"Milestone Arcus is a multi-platform VMS that hardware vendors can embed in their products for customers wanting simple, inexpensive surveillance tools. Milestone Arcus makes the move from analog to IP easy and fast for partners and their customers," says Lars Nordenlund, VP of Incubation & Ventures at Milestone Systems.

About 60 percent of the physical security market is estimated to be using analog equipment, so there is considerable potential business that will be moving to IP networked solutions over the coming years.

Vicon VMS compatible with SightLogix thermal cam

Editor / Provider: SightLogix | Updated: 3/22/2013 | Article type: Security 50

SightLogix, a thermal camera manufacturer for perimeter security applications, announces integration of the SightLogix video analytics solution with Vicon Industries' ViconNet VMS.

SightSensor video analytic cameras, which detect objects that violate perimeter security rules, can now send video and alarm information over the network for display within the ViconNet VMS. SightTrackers, which automatically steer PTZ cameras, now send the PTZ's video to the ViconNet system for up-close, alarm verification. The combined solution can trigger actions within the ViconNet system to initiate alarm processing, such as recording or alarm notification. The integration provides accurate, cost-efficient outdoor security for protecting critical assets.

"Our customers need accurate, detailed information about threats to their security or operations," said John Romanowich, President and CEO, SightLogix. "The integration with ViconNet incorporates powerful outdoor detection functionality into the operating environment of ViconNet to expand the value of both systems in support of our customers' security."

"ViconNet's open-platform, enterprise VMS solution provides added value to its users by making integration, such as what we've done with SightLogix, as easy as possible via an ‘event manager system.' Through a simple process of assigning relationships between data fields from the SightLogix cameras and ViconNet, the user benefits from a perfect combination of video verification and analytic event triggering," explained Guy Arazi, Vicon's Director of Product Management.

What makes IP cams tick

Editor / Provider: Tevin Wang, a&s International | Updated: 3/21/2013 | Article type: Tech Corner

According to IMS Research's (part of IHS) 2012 forecasts, the global market for IP-based video surveillance equipment is expected to surpass US$5.4 billion this year (overall video equipment market at roughly $13.6 billion). As competition continues to intensify, a&s looks into how mainstream megapixel cameras differ and differentiate in terms of features, promotion, and after-sale warranties and services.

Today's mainstream IP cameras are 2-megapixel (MP) ones. “Even if a camera captures images in higher resolution than 2-MP, major displays support full HD only and the whole image cannot be shown in one display,” said Alex Iida, Senior Manager of Visual Security Solutions for APAC, Sony Electronics.

As more pixels do not necessarily translate to clearer and more usable footage, features that need to be highlighted and compared lie elsewhere. “In fact, the higher the resolution, the significantly less the sensitivity is. This is one of the most important considerations in security applications, especially in low-light environments,” Iida elaborated. “Capturing images with higher resolution means data sizes will be larger, which cause problems in network bandwidth and storage, and result in higher expenses in integration and implementation.”

Sensitivity & Bandwidth
Image sensors are the deciding factor between good and excellent megapixel cameras, as light sensitivity becomes tricky with more pixels crammed onto the same piece of silicon. Sony has dedicated significant R&D efforts to this area. “The aspect ratio of our image sensors in the 2-MP cameras we have developed and adopted is 16:9 native. Compared to conventional 4:3 or 5:4 image sensors, 16:9 ones enable a larger pixel size for each pixel.” Thanks to this bigger pixel size, even with full HD resolution at 2-MP, sensitivity improvement is clearly visible.

As a pioneer of network cameras, VIVOTEK has also invested significantly in optimizing image quality, with respect to brightness, contrast, gamma and sharpness. “We have many parameters for image tuning and testing,” said Steve Ma, Executive VP at VIVOTEK. “Another difference would be bandwidth control. For more efficient bandwidth allocations, we advise our clients and integrators on ideal camera settings, such as SVC, CBR, cropping and local storage.” SVC provides more effective bandwidth and processor resource management by simultaneously dividing video data into multiple layers at different resolutions, picture sizes and frame rates, to meet the requirements of different client devices and network conditions. CBR offers flexible bit rate control in terms of maintaining stable bandwidth and allows users to simultaneously set an upper-bound mode for live viewing and choose an average mode for recording.

Multistream
Multistreaming means a number of video streams with different types of compression, such as H.264 and M-JPEG. These streams facilitate bandwidth-efficient viewing and recording. Streaming capability is highly dependent on the camera's processor and brand. Some make the most out of this feature as a key differentiator, while others do not believe it is a game changer.

Most manufacturers offer at least two streams, with some supporting three or even four independent streams. “Currently in our high line portfolio, we have three image sensors representing 720p and 1,080p resolutions. The sensor defines the maximum resolution for four streams and the type of streams that can be generated in HD streams; SD or HD streams, as a copy of the first stream; i-frame only streaming for recording; and MJPEG streams,” said Ad Biemans, Product Marketing Manager for Video Systems in EMEA, Bosch Security Systems.

Avigilon has a proprietary HD-stream management feature. “The feature enables users to manage video signals through the transmission and storage phases, without losing any of the visual quality of the signals,” said Rick Ramsay, Senior PM. “With this feature, only the requested portions of captured images are sent to operator workstations, optimizing the amount of bandwidth required. In addition to reducing client bandwidth usage, the feature also greatly reduces the processing load on the remote client, offering a unique way of working with multiple streams of H.264-compressed video to overcome many trade-offs. When a single stream is zoomed in for more detail, that stream will be automatically sent in full resolution while other streams are kept in low resolution for an overview version of the image.”

Verticalized Approach
Vertical segments such as commercial buildings, education, retail, transportation, city surveillance, traffic monitoring, airports and banking have specific demands for image clarity. “We have a range of cameras that are designed to be used in the most demanding conditions. One example is a vandal-proof corner-mount camera which is specified for prisons, hospitals and elevators,” Biemans said. Another example would be its ALPR line for vehicle surveillance and intelligent transportation applications.

Others like Axis Communications and Brickcom design and manufacture cameras for desert-like environments. “In desert areas — which make up about one-third of the earth's land surface — there are mining sites, oil and gas fields, pipeline installations as well as cities that need surveillance cameras that can withstand extreme heat and harsh conditions such as sandstorms,” said Erik Frannlid, Director of Product Management at Axis Communications. “It is critical for cameras with moving parts to have a high enough operating temperature to ensure optimal and reliable performance. The reason is that a camera with direct exposure to sunlight can be heated to a temperature of at least 15 degrees Celsius over the surrounding temperature, so an air temperature of 45 degrees may mean that the camera has to operate at 60 degrees. Our climate control system can handle rapid temperature changes to eliminate condensation.”

Similarly, Brickcom has launched cameras exclusively for places such as Russia, the Middle East, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, for their volatile weather conditions. These cameras are IP67-rated with built-in fan and heater to cope with outdoor environments, said Max Fan, Sales Director for Brickcom.

With the rapid growth of cities, Hikvision is eyeing the opportunity of traffic monitoring. “With detailed recognition and fast image capture speed, our solutions bring smarter surveillance and relief to traffic monitoring,” said Adler Wu, PM at Hikvision Digital Technology. “The improved resolution allows authorities to not only assess situations more quickly, but to allow them to respond in a timely manner.”

Regardless of the countless opportunities that megapixel cameras bring, manufacturers are advised to look at creative service models and solution offerings, to stay in business amid difficult trading conditions. Although reliability has always been key, it is financially and operationally sound to think outside the box to cater to the needs of customers of different verticals, regions or even cultural practices.

Making a Sale
The HD benefits are clear. What is not clear is how users should approach this new technology and what they should expect from it. As seeing is believing, live demonstrations are gaining popularity.

Brickcom started out as a network gear provider and prefers using toy trains to display full HD images via wireless transmission in real time. “We also designed an interactive demo of 2-MP cameras to highlight the plug-and-play, easy-to-use and auto-focus features,” Fan said.

With the omnipresence of the Internet, Secubest puts detailed product information and live demonstrations of its 2-MP cameras online. “Customers can experience live HD footage, along with the durability and design of our cameras through online demos anytime,” said Eva Chu, GM of Sales and Marketing at Secubest.

Sensing the proliferation of social-media marketing, LILIN has readjusted its marketing and promotional strategies to better cater to local taste and unique requirements, with the help of its seven subsidiaries worldwide, said Steve Hu, PM at Merit LILIN.

Securing the Investment
Customers do not want to purchase disposable cameras that need to be replaced or require maintenance constantly. Camera maintenance can be a huge expense, which is why end users pay attention not only to specs, features and algorithms, but also to warranties and after-sale support. Most manufacturers provide two- or three-year warranties. If other types of warranty are requested, some solution providers offer extension programs.

To further differentiate itself, IQinVision offers an all-inclusive five-year warranty on the majority of its products. “The only products which come with our shorter, three-year warranty are those with auto back focus or motorized zoom and focus lenses,” said Alex Doorduyn, Director of Product Marketing. When certain models are no longer manufactured, “we charge for repairs but still offer free telephone support for cameras outside of warranty.” IQinVision believes that customers should not allow manufacturers with poor-quality products and manufacturing processes to dictate the life span of a technology, especially in such a vital industry like security.

Hikvision launches network speed dome series

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 3/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision unveiled a new series of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras – DS-2DF5274 1.3MP and DS-2DF5284 2MP network speed dome cameras –which are specifically designed to provide the ideal solution for airports, industrial parks, harbors, and any large area where high performance PTZ functionality is required.

The models incorporate true day / night cameras with an IR cut filter and are capable of a 1/3” progressive scan, works extremely well in low light environments and, with the benefit of 3D DNR functionality, the images are further enhanced since it greatly helps to reduce noise and motion blur.

The DS-2DF5274 offers a 1280x960 resolution at 25 to 30 frames per second, and a 20X optical zoom of 4.3mm to 86.0mm. It also has a zoom speed of 5s and 54.1–3.2 degree angle of view. Whilst the DS-2DF5284 is a similar camera with slightly different capabilities, gives consumers another option. It has an HD 1080p resolution at 25 to 30 frames per second, as well as a 20X optical zoom of 4.7 to 94mm. Its zoom speed is 2.7s with a 58.3–3.2 degree angle of view.

With a pan speed of 540°/s and an endless range of 360°, they are extremely effective in capturing the most minute activities when deployed. As network cameras, they can be integrated in a surveillance network through an RJ45 Ethernet connection, providing seamless functionality with other compatible network surveillance devices. The products offer dual streaming and H.264/MJPEG/MPEG4 compression to optimize bandwidth consumption. It even supports up to 10 users simultaneously monitoring live images at different locations. ONVIF and PSIA protocols are also supported for the integration with other equipments, to meet the requirements of different surveillance needs.

Other features include 24 programmable privacy masks, with a maximum of 8 zones masked on the same video screen. These customizable zones stay in place even though the cameras are moving, which meets the needs of today's users who wish to block certain parts of the cameras' view for privacy, without compromising their impeccable surveillance of the environment.