Gainspan unveils development kit for wireless surveillance

Editor / Provider: GainSpan | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Component

GainSpan Corporation, a supplier in ultra-low power Wi-Fi connectivity for the Internet of Things, introduced a complete reference design for wireless video streaming applications such as remote security/surveillance cameras, car back-up cameras and video baby monitors. The new Video Application Development Kit (ADK) speeds and simplifies design and integration of video streaming services into end products based on GainSpan Wi-Fi modules.

GainSpan's Video ADK includes hardware and software that help reduce the time needed to develop products that deliver live video over Wi-Fi. With the development kit, users can stream the video feed from a Wi-Fi enabled camera to an iOS or Android based smartphone.

Included in the Video ADK is a video application board, complete hardware design package and software suite with reference source code for the embedded video application, and iOS and Android based mobile applications. An Application Evaluation Kit (AEK) is also available that provides a binary version of the software and video mobile application.

The Video application board features the GainSpan GS1011M Wi-Fi module that communicates with an H.264 video compression chip (VGA resolution at 30 frames per second) over the SPI bus, a VGA camera and imaging sensor module, a motion detector, a single snapshot trigger button, a WPS/Provisioning button for easy set-up of the wireless network and mode indicator LEDs. The GainSpan embedded software running on the Wi-Fi module offers complete Wi-Fi functionality including the networking stack and services and wireless security. It supports mDNS/DNS-SD based device and service discovery that allows users to automatically discover and connect to the embedded video profile. In addition, it includes provisioning software that allows configuration of the Wi-Fi module in Limited AP or Client modes, and supports over-the-air firmware upgrades.

Offering flexibility of design and customization, the new kit provides hardware and software building blocks that provide a starting point for product development while allowing the developer to add application software and services, and customize the end product's user interface. With the reference source code included in the kit, customers can rapidly build custom features suited to their video applications.

"IP video surveillance cameras will soon represent over 50% of the video surveillance market and the demand for Wi-Fi based cameras has increased significantly due to ease of installation. With our Video ADK we've made it simple for customers to develop battery operated or line powered Wi-Fi cameras that can be activated through motion control" said Bernard Aboussouan , vice president of marketing at GainSpan. "This is the latest ADK featuring a complete end application that we've brought to market and, like our other ADKs, is designed to help customers get their products and services to market quickly and reliably."

In addition to the new Video ADK, GainSpan offers six other application development kits: a Smartplug ADK, Audio ADK, Temperature and Light Sensors ADK, Renesas Wi-Fi Sensor ADK, and functional ADKs such as Provisioning and Over-the-Air Firmware Update.

Hikvision launches IR network series for up to 50 meters

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision expanded its low-light camera portfolio with the unveil of a new series of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras – the DS-2CD855-EI3 and DS-2CD855-EI5 2MP IR Bullet Camera – which are specifically designed as the perfect low-light, night-time, and completely dark monitoring solution, featuring IR range of 30m and 50m respectively.

This series is engineered to provide smooth, full HD 1080p video streaming with a 1/2.8 inch progressive scan CMOS. Combined with Super Low-light Technology and an IR cut filter with auto switch, this camera series is capable of delivering sharp images even in the absence of lighting. A valuable assurance that no detail is left undetected. The DS-2CD855-EI3 offers an IR range of up-to 30m, while the DS-2CD855-EI5 has a 50m IR range, with both offering a minimum illumination of 0.05 Lux @F.12 and 0 Lux with IR. Images are further enhanced by Hikvision's 3D DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) functionality, greatly reducing both noise and motion blur.

These two cameras deliver multiple, individually configurable video streams in H.264 compression, greatly optimizing bandwidth and storage without compromising on image quality. MPEG4 and MJPEG are supported for increased flexibility. ONVIF, CGI, and PSIA protocols are also supported for the integration of other equipment and to meet differing surveillance requirements.

Both models are suited for detail-specific environments, such as finance and air transportation sectors that require precise video information. Additionally, with both cameras sporting an IP66 rating, outdoor environments suffering from rain, dust, and other challenging elements (such as ports, car parks, and other similarly exposed environments) are not a concern for either the DS-2CD855-EI3 2MP IR Bullet Camera or the DS-2CD855-EI5 2MP IR Bullet Camera.

Assa Abloy/Traka launches mobile key management

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

Traka, the intelligent access management systems company, has launched Traka Web, a web-based administration suite that allows businesses to control key management systems from mobile devices. Complimenting Traka's existing access management solutions, Traka Web will help improve security and protect assets across organisations with simple administration and the ability to grant/restrict access to multiple items quickly and efficiently.

Traka provides organisations such as the Ministry of Justice with secure key cabinets to store Traka iFobs connected to physical keys. To access iFobs, staff identify themselves at the automated cabinets via PIN, biometrics or smartcard. Each iFob contains authorisation information; thereby ensuring keys are used by authorised personnel only and with full integration capability we can ensure they are returned before staff leave site.

The system also improves auditing – with reports showing which staff accessed which keys, when they were taken and when they were returned. Traka Web will enable managers to monitor key usage from their mobile devices, rather than needing to be on-site.

“Despite the boom in electronic door access, in most organisations, access management for keys is a manual process with keys kept in a box and audited using a paper log book,” explains John Kent, President of Traka. “This relies too much on employee diligence, is time consuming for management and simply doesn't ensure watertight security. Traka Web works with our access management system to help businesses control key usage from anywhere at anytime. Managers can see who has what key and produce auditing reports that can be read on any mobile device - boosting security and efficiency in one sweep.”

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.

Identive/Multicard launches integrated smart card and NFC school admin solution

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

Multicard, a supplier of credential solutions, identity management and system integration, and a business unit of Identive Group announced an integrated smart card solution that allows schools, universities and other educational institutions to verify student identities, track and report attendance, manage access to campus services and validate students' exam papers. The new student ID solution is based on the latest NFC and MIFARE DESFire EV1 contactless card technologies, ensuring the highest level of security and data validation capabilities, as well as significant ease of use for administrators and students alike.

“Our new Student Identification and Tracking Solution enables educational institutions to upgrade their existing identity management systems and benefit from the greater power, security and ease of use of contactless smart cards,” said Ross Head, MD of Multicard Australia. “We have been working with a number of universities that have assisted and guided us through the key issues that affect them most. The result is an integrated, comprehensive solution that encompasses registering students; issuing personalized student smart ID cards; verifying those ID cards at the door, at the library and for payment, parking and events; and validating exam results.”

Multicard's Student ID and Tracking solution allows educational institutions to interface to their existing student databases, retrieve student data and produce new student IDs based on secure contactless smart card technology. The new student IDs can be verified and logged with a quick tap to an NFC-enabled mobile device loaded with Multicard's mobile application – a portable verification station that can be located anywhere on campus, for example outside an exam room or sporting event. These information logs can be used to collate data for ongoing education credits, to verify attendance or for other purposes. To reduce testing fraud, the student ID cards can be visually confirmed and then scanned along with NFC tags attached to exam papers to track and validate the authenticity of the exam to the identity of the student. All data captured on the local NFC verification devices can later be securely transferred to a central web server where Multicard's management software can generate administrative reports. The solution is flexible and educational institutions can select the features they want initially and add to the system over time.

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.

Bosch introduces integration partner program

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

With the presentation of its Integration Partner Program (IPP) at the security trade fair, Bosch Security Systems moves to a whole new level in terms of providing interoperable solutions that fit any application's specific needs. The web-based platform assists customers in effortlessly identifying compatible video surveillance hardware or software solutions that will seamlessly interoperate with the existing Bosch installation. Furthermore, the program helps developers and other experts to design compatible solutions by ease of use integration tools and samples. All third party solutions already listed in the portal have successfully undergone stringent quality checks by Bosch.

The need for compatible partner products and systems
“The security market has become extremely diverse and complex, especially since the switch to IP solutions,” says David Lenot, Business Development Manager EMEA at Bosch Security Systems. “Different applications can have very heterogeneous surveillance requirements and customers are increasingly asking for unique solutions. In addition to this, comprehensive systems also have to be expandable at any point in time, which is why their composition needs to be a flexible one. With the help of IPP, owners can at once identify compatible partner products and systems that are a perfect match for installed Bosch equipment while adding unlimited features and services.”

Easy access to technical resources
IPP benefits partners and customers alike by providing just the right information in one place. It gives all development partners wishing to build integration tools, samples and solutions transparent and easy access to relevant resources, from documents to training. The program provides assistance across the portfolio, covering all features for integration purposes.

Customers can use the web-based “Solution Advisor” search engine to scan through existing applications, geographies or specific features to identify the right solution for the respective system. IPP helps multiply the solutions and guides the client to the matching result. Users can combine products from Bosch with leading video management devices from Genetec, Milestone, Nice and many other companies. Similarly, data storage solutions are available from a range of providers, such as NetApp, EMC and Iomega. Intergrativity is simplified by application and task-related code samples, as well as preconfigured integration packages. Additionally, the program provides a variety of technical support contacts for members and premium partners to optimize combining Bosch features or products with third-party devices and vice versa.

Beneficial partnerships for future development
Allowing a simple integration of third-party solutions has always been part of Bosch's principles. Solutions by the company are designed to be integration friendly. For example, all IP cameras and encoders run one firmware. Partners therefore can support dozens of products at the same time. With IPP, the company continues to open up its business and presents its video products in the most transparent way possible. “It is essential that innovative and technically competent suppliers of development services and series products are involved early and systematically in devising new solutions,” says Rudolf Spielberger, Head of IPP at Bosch Security Systems. In line with this philosophy, Bosch Security Systems, together with Axis Communications and Sony, also founded the international product standard ONVIF in 2008. The aim of ONVIF is to enable the integration of network video devices from different manufacturers. “IPP is thus a continuation of this way of thinking into the second decade of the 21st century.”

EverFocus partners with Digiever for better networked solutions

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

EverFocus is pleased to announce their new partnership with Digiever. For almost 20 years, EverFocus has been a leading integrated security solution manufacturer of CCTV cameras, DVRs, HDcctv, IP surveillance solutions, access control systems, as well as surveillance and access control peripherals. With Digiever DIGISTOR NVR series' support, EverFocus' network cameras can now satisfy various surveillance scenarios requests, and users can easily adapt the operation under more circumstances.

Established in 1995, EverFocus has been working diligently in the security business for almost 20 years now, with branches in the US, Germany, UK, Japan, India and China, EverFocus provides rapid response with optimal solutions to meet customers' satisfaction. The skilled R&D team works diligently to bring safety to our life through innovative ideas and advanced technology.

"We are pleased to gain an innovative partner in Digiever. This corroboration helps us to provide robust and powerful solutions for a wide range of applications. Digiever's platform is able to maximize benefits of the full lineup of EverFocus cameras, and allows us to bring value to an even wider customer base." said Joe Jen, Manager at EverFocus. The integration of EverFocus and Digiever is exciting, as it is the first cooperation for both parties. It will bring better service and more satisfied solution for more customers.

"We are excited by the integration between Digiever and EverFocus, as the integration has been smooth and successful. The integration with EverFocus provides users of both parties with solid surveillance bundle solution” said Allen Tseng, Product Manager of Digiever. "As the most reliable and ideal provider of Linux-based standalone NVR solution, Digiever keeps working on expanding the compatibility of IP cameras from reputed global brands and continues to support IP camera partners. Digiever devotes to giving users experience of more efficient network surveillance solutions. "

EverFocus works closely with third party technology partners to satisfy customers' needs in vertical markets such as mobile, city surveillance and banking solutions.

Bosch adds micro camera and dome to budget line

Editor / Provider: Bosch Security Systems | Updated: 5/16/2013 | Article type: Security 50

With the introduction of the micro 2000 and FLEXIDOME micro 2000 IP cameras, Bosch is once again expanding its successful network video systems portfolio. Wherever there is a need for a good product, at an affordable price, for a broad range of applications, micro 2000 IP cameras and FLEXIDOME micro 2000 IP cameras are the ideal solution. Providing more detailed images with less interference, the cameras are specifically designed for indoor areas with stable lighting, and their state of the art look sets them apart. They come in two different versions, a micro box, and a micro dome design. Beside their outstanding design, these cameras are also fully featured. The latest sensors and image processing technology from the professional security industry have been optimized for small business surveillance.

Both cameras are designed as complete networked video systems. They include a Dropbox application for remote storage of recorded activity, while also benefiting from 50 percent less storage needs in static scenes due to iDNR, saving on memory requirements, bandwidth, and costs. Furthermore, the Video Client PC software and the live viewer app from Bosch are available free of charge for reviewing live and recorded video material on a PC or mobile device from any location with Internet access.

In addition, the micro 2000 IP cameras and FLEXIDOME micro 2000 IP cameras are ONVIF conformant and compatible with software and storage solutions of third-party integrators. This is supported by the Integration Partner Program, which gives partners immediate access to online tools for easy integration of management and recording software, video analytics, monitor wall systems and cloud monitoring.