Telling industrial IP cams apart

Editor / Provider: Basler | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Tech Corner

Industrial (machine vision) cameras are used for a variety of industrial quality assurance and process control applications, according to a recent white paper written by Bjorn Webe, PM of IP Cameras at Basler. They give machines the power of sight, which is a major enabling factor for quality assurance in production processes. What many industrial camera users don't know: network cameras, also known as IP cameras, are also an effective tool for monitoring production processes.

Typical Characteristics of a Network Camera
With network cameras, the reproduced images are inherently optimized for human viewing as well as for long-term storage of the data. To ensure this last aspect, the image data is compressed while still in the camera. This is beneficial on the one hand because it cuts down on the amount of storage space needed to archive the videos. On the other hand it also reduces the necessary bandwidth overhead for video transmission and allows the cameras to be used even in budget-minded networks built around low levels of capacity. For this reason various cameras can run parallel to one another.

Network cameras compress the image data within the camera.
Advantage: requires less bandwidth and less storage space.
Network cameras have another major benefit: uncomplicated operation. Once the IP camera is connected to a network, any computer on that network can then access its images by entering the camera's IP address into a browser. This makes it easy for an electrician to mount and activate the cameras. While industrial cameras offer a very broad spectrum of configurations and are often more complicated, network cameras are relatively simple, with a viewing angle and focus factor all that's needed for immediate use.

Network cameras can be used effectively anywhere where production processes or movement sequences (of any kind) are to be filmed and monitored by a human observer. They are especially well suited for applications that require good image quality despite changing light, weather or temperature conditions. IP cameras are especially crucial if the image data is to be stored.

Ideal Uses for Network Cameras
Given their technical properties, network cameras are the perfect choice for use in monitoring tasks. These range from classical video surveillance to anti-theft and anti-vandalism applications, as well as controlling of production processes and workflows and traffic monitoring. IP cameras are also well suited for remote control of machinery, cars and robots. The different characteristics are decisive for achieving optimal results with the different applications:

• For video surveillance it is especially important that the cameras deliver good images despite changeable or poor lighting conditions. Casinos, for example, are typically set up with dim lighting yet have strict quality standards to ensure safety.
• Cameras for traffic monitoring and video surveillance are frequently subjected to outdoor conditions, which means that the cameras must be able to adjust automatically for a wide range of light conditions. They must also be robust enough to handle both moisture and large fluctuations in temperature.
• In the surveillance field it's a benefit to have multiple network cameras running simultaneously. An observer in a central location can use the cameras to gain an overview of the different areas — from building and traffic management to monitoring of production workflows, such as for the printing and courier industries.
• Network cameras are especially well suited for use in the logistics and transport fields, since they are easy to integrate into existing video management systems.
• No local PC is required to examine the image data from a network camera, allowing them to be used in difficult-to-access spots (such as tunnels), locations subjected to extreme conditions (heat, cold, hazards), or far away from the control center (traffic hubs, etc.).. Because network cameras compress their image data for better storage, they are an excellent choice for a wide variety of areas where “documented proof” must be stored for extended periods. This is particularly true for traffic violation cameras, events such as soccer matches and surveillance videos.

Dutch supermarket chain tackles losses with HD system

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 5/22/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Albert Heijn Veldhoven, part of the Ahold group of international supermarkets, has rolled out an IP-based HD video surveillance solution comprising of 16-HD cameras and 32-channel NVR, and VMS at its store in Veldhoven, Netherlands, to reduce and prevent shrinkage while improving the overall retail experience. The system installed by technical integrator, Hollander Techniek, within two days is the first Idis plug-and-play HD video surveillance system to be implemented in Netherlands. Like many retailers, Albert Heijn wanted to use video surveillance and recording to limit the impact of shoplifting, deliver on their promise to prevent crime and improve the shopping experience for customers by analysing pedestrian routes and footfall, key factors in the selection of the video surveillance solution.

With 227 franchise stores in the Netherlands, Albert Heijn is renowned for quality and affordable everyday groceries. For over 10 years, Albert Heijn Veldhoven has relied on Idis OEM systems, and when the time came for an upgrade the supermarket security team decided to look into Idis plug-and-play HD video surveillance system.
 
The store surveillance system utilizes multi-spot monitors and a client PC with Idis VMS. The security team is now benefiting from full HD quality that is crucial in the recognition and detection of suspicious behaviour to drive down shrinkage. The security manager and cafeteria is equipped with 42 inch monitors displaying live camera views simultaneously and in real-time to provide a 360-degree view of the entire store.

“The Albert Heijn Veldhoven security team has quickly adjusted with little training, while benefitting from HD picture quality and simultaneous live view and record across multiple cameras,” said Carlo Kuijer, CEO, Benelux, Idis. “This allows the team to support their objectives to prevent and detect crime while improving the overall shopping experience for customers.” The initial reactions from the end-users and the installer was positive and Idis looks forward to working with Albert Heijn to further roll-out the HD video surveillance system across Benelux.

Tennessee rehabilitation center keeps recovering residents in check

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by:

Axis introduces high-density video encoder chassis

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 5/15/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Axis Communications announced the release of its Q7436 video encoder blade and Q7920 video encoder chassis, which is one of the industry's highest-density encoder chassis with support for up to 84 analog cameras. The new high-performance video encoder solution is ideal for demanding locations such as airports, railway stations and city surveillance–where high performance, flexibility and reliability are required.

“This new video encoder system is an ideal, future-proof video surveillance solution offering outstanding performance and great flexibility,” said Erik Frannlid, Director of Product Management at Axis. “It allows customers with large scale analog video surveillance installations to connect their cameras to an IP network, giving instant access to digital benefits, including intelligent video capabilities, remote access and scalability.”

The video encoder blade has support for 60/50 fps, providing smooth video even in high motion scenes. It delivers multiple, individually configurable video streams from each channel, at full frame rate in all resolutions. Furthermore, this six channel video encoder blade offers great image features such as reduced noise, enhanced sharpness and optimized contrast, allowing for even better image quality output.

For larger, centralized systems, high-density rack solutions with encoder blades offer the most flexible and reliable solutions. The Q7920 is a rack mount encoder chassis, providing an expandable solution for migrating large-scale analog installations to network video. It holds up to 14 hot-swappable video encoder blades supporting up to 84 analog cameras. Furthermore, with hot swapping there is no need to power down the entire system when installing or removing the video encoder blades.

The video encoder chassis is also highly reliable with its power and network redundancy. Featuring both RJ45 ports as well as SFP slots, this video encoder solution offers fully flexible and cost-effective long distance network connectivity.

Further features included in AXIS Q7436 Video Encoder Blade:

• Provides powerful event management capabilities with embedded intelligent video features such as tampering alarm and motion detection.
• Supports AXIS Camera Application Platform that enables development of third party applications that can be downloaded and installed on the encoder.
• Offers significant installation savings, by allowing PTZ control over the coaxial cable, in addition to the standard support for PTZ cameras using the serial ports. 
• The video encoder blade is supported by the industry's largest base of VMS through the Axis application development partner program and Axis VMS. Furthermore the video encoder includes support Hosted Video and ONVIF for easy camera system integration.

The video encoder blade and video encoder chassis is planned to be available for order in third quarter of 2013 through Axis distribution channels.

Flir promotes President of Commercial Systems to CEO and announces 2013 financials

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

Flir Systems announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013. Revenue was $348.6 million, largely unchanged compared to first quarter 2012 revenue of $348.5 million. Operating income in the first quarter was $69.1 million, compared to $68.3 million in the first quarter of 2012. First quarter 2013 net income was $51.6 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, compared with net income of $48.1 million, or $0.31 per diluted share in the first quarter a year ago. Cash provided by operations in the first quarter was $62.0 million. During the quarter, the Company repurchased 3.8 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $26.22 per share.

Revenue from the Company's Commercial Systems division increased 5% from the first quarter of 2012, to $211.8 million. Within the Commercial Systems division, revenue from the Thermal Vision and Measurement segment was $167.4 million, an increase of 7% from the first quarter results last year. The Raymarine segment contributed $44.4 million of revenue during the first quarter, down 5% from the prior year.

Revenue from the Company's Government Systems division decreased 6% from the first quarter of 2012, to $136.8 million. Within the Government Systems division, revenue from the Surveillance segment was $110.2 million, a decrease of 4% from the first quarter of 2012. Revenue from the Detection segment was $12.5 million, a decrease of 35% compared to the first quarter of 2012, and the Integrated Systems segment contributed $14.0 million of revenue during the first quarter, an increase of 15% from the prior year.

The Company's backlog of firm orders for delivery within the next twelve months was approximately $505 million as of March 31, 2013, a decrease of $15 million during the quarter and an increase of $48 million over the prior year. Backlog in the Government Systems division was $334 million, decreasing $22 million during the quarter and increasing $22 million over the prior year. Backlog in the Commercial Systems division was $172 million, increasing $8 million during the quarter and $27 million over the prior year.

"First quarter results were consistent with our expectations for how the year would begin," noted Earl Lewis, President and CEO of Flir. "Despite the difficult funding and macro environment our customers are experiencing, both of our divisions have meaningfully higher backlog than they did a year ago and our focus on organizational efficiency and cost control resulted in increased margins and net earnings growth. In addition, we continue to generate operating cash at a rate that significantly exceeds net income, which will allow us to generate strong returns for our shareholders."

Revenue and Earnings Outlook for 2013
Based on financial results for the first three months of 2013 and the outlook for the remainder of the year, Flir is reaffirming its outlook for revenue and earnings per share for the full year 2013. Management expects revenue for 2013 to be in the range of $1.5 billion to $1.6 billion and net earnings to be in the range of $1.56 to $1.66 per diluted share.

Management Succession
Lewis has announced his intention to retire as President and CEO of the Company effective May 19, 2013. He will assume a senior advisor role to the Company to aid in the transition and will remain Chairman of the Board of Directors of Flir. Andrew C. Teich, currently President of the Company's Commercial Systems division, will assume the positions of President and CEO of Flir upon Lewis's retirement. "This is the culmination of a process that began more than two years ago with three of my direct reports completing the Harvard Advanced Management Program," said Lewis. "Approximately a year ago, we formed a special committee of the Board of Directors and hired outside consultants to begin the difficult process of selecting one person from among three excellent internal candidates in Bill Sundermeier, Tony Trunzo, and Andy. The difficulty in making a final decision was a result of the Board's strong belief that all three were highly competent and capable leaders."

What's trending in 2013?

Editor / Provider: Judy Lin, asmag.com | Updated: 5/8/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

Secutech International 2013, one of the largest trade shows in the security world, successfully concluded on April 26. Here are some of the key findings from the show floor interviews.

1. IP Rocks
IP-based video surveillance products accounted for the majority of items displayed at the exhibition, while HD-SDI products remained a minority. Of the 23 video surveillance manufacturers sampled, 16 companies featured IP products at the show, including Dynacolor, Dahua Technology, Itx, Mobotix and others. Hikvision Digital Technology and four other companies were promoting analog cameras, while Hi Sharp and Win4net were the only companies highlighting HD-SDI products. Most manufacturers are still promoting IP cameras, due to a smaller demand for HD-SDI cameras, and few related products and accessories, said Ray Chan, Director of Sales for APAC, Infinova. HD-SDI also requires larger storage, and the required frame rate is still playing catch-up, Chan continued. A technician from Fuho Technology echoed the sentiment, stating while HD-SDI products offer better image quality than analog cameras, market demand has remained low because of the lack of supporting appliances and hardware compared to analog or IP systems. Some manufacturers are trying to compensate this by promoting new HD-SDI cabling products, such as Win4net's Clebo HD-SDI PoC solution that can extend HD-SDI data transmission for more than 2 kilometers.

2. Light Sensitivity
The majority of low-light network cameras displayed at the show came with 1.3-megapixel resolution; only a few were 3-megapixel models. Shany's SNC-WD2131MSA and Yoko Technology's RYK-IPBX010 featured 1.3-megapixel low-light cameras, while Zavio's D7320 was a 3-megapixel camera. The limitations of network bandwidth and market demand are driving the sales of 1.3-megapixel low-light cameras, said Steven Mao, PM for Digital Surveillance Product Planning, Yoko Technology. Two trends in WDR network cameras were also observed, with some manufacturers such as Brickcom using software to enhance images and others, including Zavio, developing their own WDR sensors.

3. High and Low
Of the analog cameras displayed, a large number were of 700 TVLs and above. For instance, Hikvision's Picadis Exir Camera and Pishion's BRX-99P84WR were 720-TVL cameras, while Fuho's Vacron-P was a 1,000-TVL camera. The cameras target cost-conscious consumers that want better image quality close to IP cameras, but at a much lower price point, said Ian Ma, Overseas Technical Support Engineer, Hikvision. The cameras offer better images than traditional analog, and ideal for clients who are reluctant to say goodbye to their coaxial cables.

4. Easy to Install
Four- to 8-channel NVRs for SMB and home applications are mostly designed with easy setup procedures that are user-friendly. Whether its Nuuo's 8-channel NVR, that enables setup to be completed in six minutes with a click of a mouse, or Dynacolor's 4-channel NVR that automatically detects the company's cameras, the idea is to make installation hassle-free. Manufacturers are trying to make their products appealing and adoptable to the average home owner or shop keeper, who may not be tech-savvy or have the resources to hire IT specialists. Another interesting find was iCatch's latest NVR that enables consumers to use QR scanners to connect their IP cameras to the NVR.

5. Scalability Reincarnated
Installer-friendly products were not easy to miss. For example, Etherwan's ED3638 PoE switch can transmit data and electricity up to 1.8 kilometers, said Alvin Hsu, PM; Planet's BSP-300 solar-power switch is particularly suited for integrators struggling with outdoor cabling. Brickcom's FocusEasy makes life easier for installers, by beeping loudly when the camera is correctly focused; it is aimed at the hotel industry or large-scale projects that require many installations, said Anchi Chen, Marketing Administrator. All these products are designed with convenience in mind, by saving installers or system integrators valuable resources. These products are also ideal for large-scale projects and applications.

6. Value Adds
More camera and NVR manufacturers are teaming up with VCA companies to increase the added value of their products. To target the retail sector, Nuuo teamed up with Vit to add on people-counting features onto its NVR, while VIVOTEK has been cooperating with Cognimatics to add on similar people-counting features onto its IP cameras. Other common VCA features include people counting, item removal detection, and virtual fences that are targeted for retail market applications.

7. Mobility
From remotely monitoring video surveillance cameras to opening doors via NFC technology, mobile applications are increasingly prevalent. The popularity of smartphones and tablets is pushing this trend in the security sector. The majority of NVR manufacturers, such as iCatch and Nuuo, have matching mobile apps to enable remote monitoring, while newer access control systems from WFE Technology allow smartphones to open doors using NFC. Nearly all NFC access control systems are RFID-based at the show, with the exception of Hundure Technology that has promoted a Bluetooth NFC reader.

8. Hot Access
Access control manufacturers such as Pongee and WFE were promoting multicredential readers with four to five credentials targeting the banking or hotel sector. End users can choose which credentials they want to use. According to Johnson Wu, PM of Waferlock at WFE, markets that require high security, such as the banking sector, are more likely to use a combination of credentials or utilize all credentials offered.

9. Gaze Downward
Manufacturers are aiming for the mid- to low-end market with hopes of tapping into retail, home, hotel and banking applications. This was reflected with the promotion of affordable retail solutions with fewer functions, but easy installation, such as VIVOTEK's Counter Cam, a small 180-degree panoramic camera with very basic functions. Even Flir, which had traditionally manufactured high-end thermal imaging cameras, was promoting its first commercial camera, the VT602, at the show (which still costs US$190,000).

10. Emerging Opportunities
Most video surveillance manufacturers agreed that sales are particularly well in emerging markets. Dali Technology and Merit  LILIN both responded sales were particularly well in Middle East, while NVR manufacturer Qnap noted sales were particularly well in Central and South America.

Axis releases outdoor PTZ dome

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

Axis Communication's P5414-E PTZ Dome is the first of a new line of outdoor-ready PTZ cameras with an intelligent direct drive pan/tilt system for unsurpassed mechanical endurance. This, together with other hardware innovations, has resulted in an attractively priced, uniquely designed HD 720p PTZ dome with 18x optical zoom for outdoor wall-mount surveillance installations—ideal for use in city and perimeter surveillance, parking houses and school yards.

Axis, presented a direct drive PTZ camera with few moving parts. The camera is directly attached to the drive shaft of two motors—one for panning and another for tilting the camera. With no mechanical parts such as belts or gears, the dome's durable and highly efficient pan/tilt system provides customers with a reliable, low-maintenance PTZ camera. Other innovations include a built-in wall bracket that eliminates the need to purchase a separate mounting accessory. This not only provides cost-savings to customers, but makes wall-mount installations even easier and quicker.

“About half of all PTZ cameras are mounted on walls and Axis P5414-E addresses this market with some unique designs,” says Erik Frannlid, Axis' Director of Product Management. “The result is an attractively priced, high-performance, low-maintenance HD PTZ camera that's easy to install.”

The dome has an integrated sunshield that is designed for easy removal, allowing customers to repaint it to match the installation environment. The sunshield's sloping form also helps the camera resist attempts by vandals to pull it down. The camera has a hidden junction box that supports two-way audio, a memory card slot, four configurable inputs/outputs to external devices, and the option for customers to use either 24 V DC or PoE Plus (IEEE 802.3at). The dome supports Advanced Gatekeeper, which enables the camera to automatically pan, tilt and zoom in to a preset position when motion is detected in a predefined area.

With the ability to pan 270 degrees, the dome can also be mounted on the corner of a building with the use of a corner mount bracket, enabling wide area coverage and high optical zoom for detailed surveillance in HD resolution. It will be available in July 2013 through Axis distribution channels at the suggested retail price of 1342 Euros.

Further features of the camera include:

• HDTV 720p performance, which is in compliance with the SMPTE 296M standard regarding resolution, full frame rate, HDTV color fidelity and 16:9 format.
• The 18x zoom with autofocus, in combination with the HDTV resolution, provides zoomed-in views that offer not only the same level of detail as a 36x-zoom, standard resolution camera, but also the extra advantage of a wider (16:9) field of view.
• Multiple, individually configurable streams in H.264 and Motion JPEG video formats.
• D/N functionality, which involves an automatically removable infrared-cut filter for delivering color video during day time, and high-quality black and white video in low-light conditions.
• Intelligent video functionalities such as video motion detection, Advanced Gatekeeper and audio detection, as well as support for additional applications through AXIS Camera Application Platform.
• Outdoor-ready with IP66 and NEMA 4X ratings that ensure protection against dust, rain, snow and corrosion.

The dome is supported by the industry's largest base of VMS through the Axis Application Development Partner Program, AXIS Camera Station and the complimentary Axis Camera Companion. The camera also includes support for Axis Video Hosting System and ONVIF for easy camera system integration.

Congressman Mike Honda visits Morpho US headquarters

Editor / Provider: Morpho | Updated: 5/6/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Morpho (Safran), through its subsidiary Morpho Detection, welcomed Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17) at the Morpho Detection offices in Newark, California.

Employing more than 200 people in Newark, Morpho Detection's Bay-area offices and manufacturing facility houses the Morpho Computed Tomography (CT) Center of Excellence research and development lab. As a result, some of the most widely deployed CT-based solutions used globally to screen checked baggage for dangerous explosives and other threats are developed and manufactured in Newark, among them Morpho Detection's CTX automated explosives detection systems (EDS).

“Morpho Detection thanks Congressman Honda for being here today and his long-standing support of local businesses,” said Brad Buswell, president and CEO, Morpho Detection. “Morpho Detection has been developing advanced explosives detection solutions in Newark for more than 20 years. We look forward to continuing our work with Congressman Honda to ensure our district remains a global hub for innovation and technology.”

As part of his visit, Rep. Honda met with employees and viewed the production area of the CTX line of EDS. The most widely deployed in the world, with nearly 2,000 units assembled in Newark since 1990, Morpho Detection's CTX EDS screens checked baggage at the busiest airports in the U.S. and throughout the world.

Commenting on his visit, Rep. Mike Honda (CA-17) said: “As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and my own Blue Ribbon Task Force on Aviation Security, I know firsthand both the fiscal challenges we face as a nation and the importance of investing in advanced technology to ensure the safety of the traveling public in the future. Silicon Valley has long been a global hub for innovation in a variety of markets – allowing businesses to be more efficient and creating jobs that sustain communities. I have enjoyed learning more about technologies like those Morpho Detection manufactures and that can allow us to approach safety more intelligently and cost effectively."

Lapis releases low-power, low-cost microcontrollers for embedded system control

Editor / Provider: Lapis Semiconductor | Updated: 4/30/2013 | Article type: Component

Lapis Semiconductor, a Rohm Group Company, is pleased to introduce the ML610Q100 series of low-cost, feature-rich, low-power microcontrollers. The new Mini Low Power Microcontrollers are especially well suited for embedded applications requiring a very small microcontroller that provides high computational performance and dedicated control functions, yet consumes a minimal amount of power. Applications include motor control, energy harvesting sensors and nodes, audio and speech control, smoke and fire detection, security and access control, battery management, home appliances, lighting control, power monitoring and metering, and many other embedded designs.

The Mini LP architecture is made up of a processing core, non-volatile memory and RAM plus several embedded peripheral functions including: GPIO, PWMs, counter/timer blocks, ADCs and comparators. The devices exhibit very low power consumption in both sleep (1uA typical) and operating modes (3.7mA typical), while executing one instruction per clock cycle at up to 8 MHz clock rates. The microcontrollers are unique in having their timing reference circuit completely integrated within the devices, meaning no external crystal or any other components are required. Some of the devices in the Mini LP Micro series have internal writable Flash ROM, which eliminates the need for external EEPROM for data storage. Their wide supply voltage range (2.7V dc to 5.5Vdc) and temperature range (-40 C to 85 C) allow the Mini LP Micros to be used in battery-powered and energy-harvesting applications located in harsh environments.

The Mini LP Micros are based on LAPIS Semiconductor's proprietary 8 bit RISC U8 core, which has been used within LAPIS Semiconductor's products for over 15 years. The U8 core's low-cost code creation and debugging tools are available for program development. LAPIS Semiconductor also offers a very flexible and expandable Mini LP Micro Development Kit with expansion sockets that enable easy access to all of the IOs available on the devices.

German luxury jeweler ensures security and customer experience with discretion

Editor / Provider: Dallmeier electronic | Updated: 4/30/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Located at the heart of the historic district of Regensburg, Germany, the century-old court jeweler, Muhlbacher, recently deployed a modern and discreet surveillance system consisting of 20 Dallmeier electronic HD domes and a hybrid video appliance with integrated storage system to monitor its remodelled and expanded retail shop.

For more than 100 years, the prestigious family-owned jeweller has been a supplier of sophisticated timepieces and top-class jewellery. Its showrooms recently underwent a six month renovation to present customers with a sleek and elegant interior, relaxing lounge area, and separate sitting areas for discreet sales discussions. The jeweller now displays timepieces from renowned manufacturers, such as Bulgari, Breitling, and luxury brand Rolex on a spacious 400 square meter display area. In addition, treasures by Cartier, Chopard and others are offered together with original jewellery creations from its in-house workshop.

Brothers Andreas and Markus Muhlbacher, who are the fourth-generation operators of the family business, demanded a high quality and inconspicuous surveillance system to monitor the shop."The cameras are supposed to blend in discreetly with our showroom concept,” said Andreas Muhlbacher. "At the same time, naturally the video system must be reliable at all times."

Vandal-resistant HD domes were installed throughout the shop and surrounding areas. The cameras covered the entrance, sales areas, lounge, cashier counter, consulting area, packaging station, manager's office, workshop, and also surrounding streets and inner courtyard. The surveillance equipments not only protect the retailer from theft and break-ins, it also helps optimize customer care. This was achieved with the deployment of monitors and computers at strategic points, including the reception area, cashier counter, office or workshop, where surveillance camera images were displayed on screen in a six window format. "Our rooms are very expansive, for which reason it is not possible to keep an eye on the entire shop at once,” explained Andreas Muhlbacher. “But with the video images our employees immediately see where the customers are.” This helps cut down waiting time for customers that require assistance.

The images are stored on a hybrid video appliance with integrated storage system. The recording is controlled by motion detection, for example recordings are only made when there is actual movement. This enables efficient use of the storage capacity of the hard drives. Moreover, the Muhlbachers have remote access to live and recorded image material via an iPhone. "The Dallmeier iPhone app is really very practical and easy to operate,” said Markus Mühlbacher. “This lets me keep an eye on things at all times, even when I am away."