Synectics management software integrates AMG fisheye cam

Editor / Provider: AMG Systems | Updated: 5/30/2013 | Article type: Security 50

AMG-Panogenics, the British manufacturer of sophisticated Megapixel cameras, has entered a technology partnership with Synectics, and their PanoCam360 fisheye camera is now fully integrated into the Synergy security management system.

Jonathan Squires, Technology Applications Manager of Synectics says, “The PanoCam360 can be recorded by Synectics' recording management system and the image / stream can be viewed in Synectics' security management software, Synergy, in its native, 360 format. The image can also be de-warped, and using Synergy, users can apply a digital zoom on the image.”

David Myers, CTO of AMG-Panogenics comments, “PanoCam360 streams 12.5 frames per second and the on-board de-warping reduces the processing requirement back in the control room. Offering up to 14 de-warped video streams/independent camera views simultaneously alongside the full-resolution fish-eye view makes PanoCam360 the most powerful and versatile 360 degree camera range available. The camera is completely developed and manufactured in the UK and works on an open software platform, which makes it very easy to integrate.”

Synergy is Synectics' security management solution for multi-vendor environments. One of the main features of Synergy is that it dramatically simplifies the human interface, furnishing operators with a simple, fast and intuitive route to all common system functions. It further features a range of module additions designed with specific application sectors in mind. Synergy therefore addresses the requirement of system operators and managers to provide a practical control and administration solution that can deliver the flexibility of operation - as demanded by today's increasingly complex systems.

Four cross-industry technologies changing global mobility

Editor / Provider: World Economic Forum and Boston Consulting Group | Updated: 5/28/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

By 2025, innovations based on more integrated cross-industry cooperation that capitalizes on mostly existing technologies and preventive data analytics will radically improve how people travel and transport goods, according to a new report by the World Economic Forum, produced in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group.

Based on the Forum's Connected World project, a yearlong research effort involving more than 50 leading companies from the travel, transportation, and information and communications technologies (ICT) industries, the report identifies several innovations that hold great promise for revolutionizing the travel and transportation ecosystem. Some of them have the potential to provide significant business opportunities and societal benefits. From an initial list of 100, the following four have been highlighted:

• An integrated proactive intermodal travel assistant would create one seamless ticket across road, railway, and air. Users would access the solution through voice- or gesture-controlled data glasses (or even contact lenses) that would offer real-time information on travel plans. Big data and artificial intelligence would allow a user confronted by a major flight delay, for example, to select from a variety of travel options -- possibly a flight to an alternative airport and a car rental.
• A condition-based megacity traffic-management system would integrate and process up-to-the-minute information from vehicles, travel infrastructure, individuals, surveillance cameras, and the environment to manage traffic in the largest cities around the world. Before congestion on a major highway hits problematic levels, for example, the system would automatically reroute drivers or adjust tolls to encourage alternate routes. Services such a system could offer also include forecasting air pollution levels, blocking access to areas caused by environment or emergency issues, and even smart parking. Rio de Janeiro in Brazil has already rolled out such a system three years ago, gathering traffic information from 400 surveillance cameras. China's Langfang city has also rolled out a similar smart traffic system recently, utilizing 178 cameras. Current research indicates the market for smart traffic systems could reach US$ 12 billion by 2025.
• A fully automated check-in, security, border-control, and smart-visa system would harness technology to eliminate the long lines at airport screening points and border crossings, simultaneously enhancing security. Visa applications would be standardized across multiple countries with data available to officials in all participating nations. Check-in for a flight would be expedited by replacing paper documents with an electronic passport, as well as biometric traveler identification through fingerprints, facial recognition, or an iris scan. New sophisticated behavioral risk-based screening systems would speed up security checks, allowing luggage to be scanned with liquids still packed. And boarding and customs processing would be made dramatically faster by the same biometric identity checks. While Dubai has one of the most advanced automated iris checking systems implemented since 2012, the world is still far away from implementing a fully automated check-in system at an airport. The International Air Transport Association's has scheduled pilot projects in 2014.
• A tracking and transparency-based logistics optimizer would solve some of the thorniest "last-mile" challenges associated with product deliveries. Under this system, cheap and ubiquitous RFID chips would be incorporated into product packaging and used to track not only the real-time location of items as they are moved but also factors such as the average temperature during shipping and the CO2 emissions associated with the production and shipping of the product. Such a system would both allow more efficient transportation of products and give consumers valuable information on the quality and environmental impact of the items in their shopping carts.

"These solutions will be game changers, and the technological know-how to make them a reality largely exists," said BCG Senior Partner Antonella Mei-Pochtler, who is also codirector of the Connected World project. "It is only through an integrated approach across industries and through active support by the public stakeholders that we can realize them. Business leaders need to create the prerequisites; strengthening data analytics is one of them."

The Forum and BCG are currently working with companies, governments, and other stakeholders throughout the world to map out plans for developing these solutions.

Although many of the technologies exist today, successful implementation will depend on surmounting several institutional barriers. The main obstacles, according to the report, are a lack of cooperation across industries and various public agencies. At the same time, the challenges that typically surround hyperconnectivity -- including data ownership, data privacy, and resilience against cyberattacks -- create additional hurdles. The Forum's push to bring corporate and government leaders together to promote development of these solutions is aimed at addressing such challenges.

In addition to the four highlighted solutions, the report notes eight others for their potential to shape the future of travel and transportation. They include: holographic communication platforms, mobile living rooms and virtual offices, integrated intermodal mobility providers, driverless swarm-car service, logistics drones, mobile pop-up hotels, preventive vehicle-maintenance systems, and vehicle operator and passenger health analytics.

The Connected World project and report are part of the Forum's Hyperconnectivity Initiative, which aims to provide insight into how the increasing prevalence and speed of connections around the globe will impact issues such as security, cybercrime, and privacy.

Honeywell IP cams now ONVIF Profile S compliant

Editor / Provider: Honeywell Security | Updated: 5/24/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Honeywells newly expanded line of IP cameras gives you unlimited possibilities to choose whats right for every camera installation. Designed with open IP standards, Honeywell ONVIF Profile S network cameras offer superb picture quality and ensure full interoperability through seamless integration with our portfolio of MAXPRO NVRs as well as third-party NVRs.

Seamless Integration
- Integrate with the full line of MAXPRO NVRs: XE, SE and PE
- Ensure full interoperability by using Honeywell IP cameras with ONVIF-compliant vendor NVRs like Exacq Technologies, Milestone, Genetec and more
- Easily manage devices with fully ONVIF-compliant Profile S protocol cameras

Increased Flexibility
- See more detail when viewing moving objects with progressive scan video - Get significant storage savings without sacrificing image quality through Digital Noise Reduction (DNR)
- Reduce installation time with quick and easy setup through a Web client or NVR

Expanded IP Camera Offering
- Meet exact application needs through a complete IP line of equIP Series and Performance Series cameras
- Enjoy exceptional picture quality with true day/night cameras available in 1080p and 720p wide
- IP/IR Bullet and dome cameras allow you to see in complete darkness

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.

Idis launches bundled VMS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Genetec ALPR parking payment system now interoperable with third parties

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Milestone VMS integrated into Tdsi access management platform

Editor / Provider: TDSi | Updated: 5/17/2013 | Article type: Security 50

The new EXgarde 4.1 version of integrated security solutions manufacturer TDSi's access control software features integration with Milestone's Enterprise and Corporate VMS. From a single IP-enabled access portal, security operators are able to use EXgarde 4.1's Explorer to directly monitor CCTV feeds via Milestone's XProtect Corporate or Enterprise software range, tagging events and using video verification whilst also controlling the physical access control of automated doors. EXgarde 4.1 also integrates directly with Microsoft Active Directory, so physical security systems can be directly synchronized with logical security and the central business facility database can provide an overall view of any situation.

TDSi's MD, John Davies, commented, “EXgarde 4.1's integration with Milestone's software means security operators can take advantage of its wide scope of video surveillance solutions to provide exactly what they need. With our software at its heart, any business can directly link and manage its entire security enforcement from one place. With direct links to CCTV feeds (through Milestone's software or TDSi's own VUgarde2 CCTV management software), along with input from Texecom's alarm systems, EXgarde 4.1 can then collate this information and rapidly advise security staff. At the same time, as users gain access their location is logged with Microsoft Active Directory, which is the keystone to many modern build control systems. Any security breach can also trigger IT system protocols that control the level of access available in certain areas, to minimize the possibility of unwarranted removal of data. This offers a superb way to integrate physical security with the IT security systems to provide a total picture of organizational security”

EXgarde 4.1's integration with both Milestone's XProtect Enterprise and Corporate VMS is part of a wider drive to unite traditionally disparate components of business security. Recognizing the power of compatible systems, TDSi and Milestone's systems are designed to be highly complementary to one another, providing excellent results and superb value for money. In the case of the CCTV integration, users can view live video from any camera within the EXgarde Explorer window, so an incident reported by the access control system, for example, can immediately be investigated visually.

This is further enhanced by the ability to use Video Verification, whereby when specific events are generated (e.g. access is denied on a reader) a window will pop-up displaying live video from a chosen camera. The operator can then choose to unlock the door from the pop-up window if they are certain access should be granted.

Integration with Milestone's systems is also ideal for event tagging and compliance. Specific events can be tagged as they occur (or during playback) so an incident can be thoroughly investigated. This makes the review of recorded footage simple when the tagged events occur in the event list the recorded video can be played back corresponding to the event timestamp.

Assa Abloy/HID Global appoints VP of Govt ID Solutions

Editor / Provider: HID Global | Updated: 5/16/2013 | Article type: Security 50

HID Global announced that Rob Haslam has joined the company as VP of Government ID Solutions. In his new role, Haslam is responsible for the strategic development and worldwide expansion of the company's government-to-citizen ID business. This includes extending HID Global's reach by delivering secure ID solutions into major government ePassport and eID projects that integrate Genuine HID technologies, products, solutions and services, as exemplified by the company's experience in the delivery of the Angolan and Saudia Arabia National ID, Australian Driver's Licenses, United Kingdom's ePassport, Ireland's new ePassport, Italian Citizen ID, and US Green Card programs.

Haslam has over 20 years of international business development experience and leading teams in selling complex government solutions to address IT and technology, secure printing including currency, identity management, biometrics and public safety telecoms requirements. Haslam's extensive background in building and implementing growth strategies will contribute to the growth and extension of HID Global's integrated Government ID Solutions portfolio that includes smart card ID credentials and total ID ecosystems for ePassport, eDocuments, national ID, foreign resident, worker ID and vehicle registration programs.

Prior to joining HID Global, Haslam's career has included his role as vice president of International Sales and Business Development at L-1 Identity Solutions and 16 years at UK currency and identity specialist De La Rue. Haslam also served in executive-level positions at companies focused on secure identity document issuance solutions and secure government/public safety telecommunications networks. Haslam holds a Bachelor's Degree with Honors from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom and is fluent in French, Spanish, and Portuguese in addition to his native English.

Dutch rail keeps track of stations with heightened awareness

Editor / Provider: Nice Systems | Updated: 5/14/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

ProRail, the government agency responsible for rail infrastructure in the Netherlands, is deploying Nice Systems's situation management solution to help identify, verify and manage security, safety, and operations in real time. The solution will also be instrumental in post-event investigation, analysis and the ongoing evaluation of event handling. Nice is partnering with Geodan, an expert in geographic information system and crisis management systems, to implement this project.

From a single, centralized control room, ProRail will be able to manage tens of thousands of incidents a year across the Netherland's rail systems, including on-track malfunctions, fire incidents and other crisis situations. With the situation management solution's automated and semi-automated tools, together with predefined response plans, security operators will be able to rapidly and effectively respond to unfolding events as they occur. This is expected to enable ProRail to substantially decrease operational downtime caused by accidents. Hundreds of ProRail employees from across the organization will play a role in the operation of the system and will benefit from improved communication, collaboration, and information sharing.

With the ability to identify, verify and respond to events in real time, the Nice-Geodan solution will enable ProRail to mitigate risk and improve operations. Since the solution can integrate with existing and new systems, ProRail is able to leverage its current infrastructure and enjoy a lower total cost of ownership.

“Handling incidents faster and more efficiently is a high priority within the rail sector, as our ultimate goal is to provide our customers with safe and reliable transport,”said Hans Smits, Director of Incident Management at ProRail.“The joint solution offered by Nice and Geodan allows us to unify and centralize operations.”The rail company can now provide stakeholders with a single picture of the situation, quickly inform relevant parties, and make decisions faster.

“The ProRail deployment highlights the many facets of our advanced situation management technology, including its ability to help organizations respond quicker and more efficiently to unfolding incidents,” said Yaron Tchwella, President of the Nice Security Group.

“We also recognize the value that this solution could bring for seaports, airports, government bodies, and other local organizations that are responsible for managing critical assets and infrastructure,” said Henri van Mil, Director at Geodan.