Keeping video quality in check

Editor / Provider: a&s International | Updated: 12/26/2012 | Article type: Tech Corner

With so many eyes (surveillance cameras) out in the field, how can one ensure that everything is up and running, and that the system is producing viable results? Quality assurance or health check measures are now available for video surveillance systems, offering objective data 24/7 on how good or usable recorded images or video clips are while keeping the operator and other stakeholders informed of any system failure.

How do you measure a video surveillance system's effectiveness? Oftentimes, the focus is on product specs or system functionality, subjecting image or video quality to nonquantifiable, occasional eyeball checks or glances. There is indeed a growing need in the marketplace, as numbers of channels increase exponentially, for a better way to measure and record actual quality, system health or internal/external factors that impact what is recorded and displayed.

As a result, video quality verification software (VQVS) packages, which help collect video signals and system data transmitted back from the cameras or other devices to benchmark image quality and/or system uptime, have become increasingly popular. a&s looks into this unique, emerging product category and provides some usage guidelines.

With so many eyes (surveillance cameras) out in the field, how can one ensure that everything is up and running, and that the system is producing viable results? Quality assurance or health check measures are now available for video surveillance systems, offering objective data 24/7 on how good or usable recorded images or video clips are while keeping the operator and other stakeholders informed of any system failure.

Why VQVS?
Through electronics' voltage variances or the final image from a typical video transmission, VQVS generates a report after running the information through algorithms or combining figures from specified benchmarks. Complementary to any video surveillance system, it does not actively run on the surveillance system and only goes to work when requested/operated upon. VQVS can exist either as embedded software or as bundled system architecture.

Several user scenarios could illustrate the significance and usefulness of VQVS. One typical example is a project with cameras at one site connected to a central monitoring station at another location. Should a camera suddenly lose image input signals, the operator in the control room would not be able to determine immediately what happened to the camera — or it could be anything between the camera and the control room — and rectify it accordingly. The old way would require dispatching a technician to check on the camera, and then the entire system if it is not the front-end device that is at fault. Without knowing the camera's or system's exact problem(s), the operator or technician may need to make multiple trips between the camera site and the control room before resolving the issue(s).

If image/device signal strength can be tested remotely and regularly (or even round-the-clock), the operator could preempt most system failures or minimize downtime with each repair/replacement. Such diagnostics, enabled by VQVS, allow for better service provisioning and allocations of resources/personnel.

It can be resource-consuming to pinpoint problems associated with grainy or no video.

How to Use
VQVS has a wide range of features suited for many applications. The size of the application dictates whether VQVS is really needed. A small mom-and-pop shop project will not need advanced network management; on the other hand, the greater control offered by VQVS is suitable for a large, interconnected surveillance deployment at multiple sites, as distributed architecture does introduce more challenges for control and maintenance, or points of failure.

Critical surveillance applications that cannot afford any system downtime, such as casinos, banks, utilities or even high-tech product facilities, would particularly benefit from what VQVS has to offer, quickly preempting/pinpoint problems or switching over to backup devices and driving forth necessary replacements/upgrades. This allows for constant monitoring without any interruption to service, operation and security.

Large surveillance projects usually have several distributed substations/control sites. With a higher count of edge devices, many video commands that are faulty might be overlooked or ignored, as it could be impossible to find who or what is responsible for a signal loss or failure. Embedded VQVS allows the video surveillance system to self-identify where failures occur in real time, so the authorized operator on-site can address problems or call for help/backup efficiently. While certain issues may not be properly flagged or interpreted, the ultimate purpose is to obtain the best image quality possible and maintain system uptime/reliability.

Common Camera Failures 
- Stained lens 
- Lens iris failure 
- Lens focus failure
- Unauthorized camera/lens turn
- Power loss or failure
-  Camera circuit damage
- Camera connection failure or loosening

Common DVR/NVR/Server Failures
-  Insufficient hard-disk drive (HDD) storage space
- Ventilation fan failure
-  Poor HDD ventilation
- CPU failure from insufficient ventilation
-  Excessive HDD vibration 
-  Read/write head failure 
- Improper HDD sector placement
- Signal convertor failure
- Improper hardware configurations                                         

Common Management Platform Failures
-  CPU database overflow
-  Software bugs
- Runtime error
-  SDK/API bugs
- Network crash

How to Select
VQVS can be classified as three types. The first is a processor-level health check that examines the system. The second is a front-end embedded image quality analysis, or intelligent video software (IVS)/video content analytics (VCA) check. The third type is a video check by signal quality and status monitoring. Each type has multiple vendors available, offering valuable diagnostic tools that can be operated based on user environments.

Processor-Level Health Check
System health monitoring can start from the equipment's CPUs, collating data from each part of the system into a health report. This type of system check offers the unique ability to remotely diagnose issues from the core, recording and addressing connection issues, camera failures, HDD failures, recording issues, and time and date discrepancies.

IVS/VCA Image Check
This type of embedded software detection can determine and send out an alert if a video camera scene has deviated from typical “appearances.” The technology can learn to distinguish deliberately caused events, such as lens occlusion, out-of-focus lenses or cameras being turned, and will sound an alarm. IVS/VCA VQVS uses analytic algorithms to detect changes in the monitored environment and automatically reports deliberate tampering, enabling the operator to identify and correct problems quickly. Along with detecting actual camera events, this type of VQVS can prevent false alarms caused by lights being switched off or people gathering in large groups.

Video/System Signal Check
This type of VQVS diagnoses equipment/system health by measuring signal voltages/currents/degradations, electrical impedances, network data and system status reports. When combined with the other two checks, improvements can be made in terms of image sharpening and still-image processing, ultimately minimizing noise and maximizing video usability.

 Vidoe Quality Verification Comparison Table

Scoping out Southeast Asia in 2013

Editor / Provider: By Alyssa Fann, a&s International | Updated: 12/25/2012 | Article type: Hot Topics

The International Monetary Fund has cut global growth forecasts twice since April 2012. Despite widespread economic woes, security is keeping its momentum in certain regions, with Southeast Asia being particularly noteworthy given its game-changing population, rich natural resources and urgent needs for both public and private infrastructures.

The American Chamber of Commerce estimated that close to US$1 trillion worth of infrastructure projects will be opened to foreign investment in Asia over the next 10 years. "As APAC continues to attract investments from IT companies, we are expecting to see advanced electronic requirements from such companies in 2013," said Alan Parker, Director of Global Accounts and Vertical Markets for Asia, Tyco International.

Indonesia and Thailand, in particular, should not be overlooked. “Government expenditure in security is unlikely to decrease,” said Patrick Lim, Director of Sales and Marketing for Ademco Security Group. “Businesses that have done well will continue to spend on security, especially the ones dealing with expensive parts and high-value goods.”

Terrorist attacks, large-scale natural disasters and rising crime rates have raised the general public's security awareness; government initiatives are also helping fuel the demand and market for security systems and services.

Indonesia
In Indonesia, the demand for security equipment stems from the growing needs of various verticals, which range from the government sector to the booming construction, commercial, industrial and residential sectors. In particular, demand for security and safety equipment in industrial plants, commercial buildings, public facilities, oil/gas facilities, mining operations, airports and seaports has increased substantially.

On May 27, 2012, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono announced the country's Master Plan for Acceleration and Expansion of Indoneisa's Economic Development (MP3EI), which will carry the country through to 2025. The MP3EI aims to make Indonesia, the 17th largest economy in the world, one of the world's 10 biggest economies by 2025, by taking GDP to $4.5 trillion and increasing the per capita income from the current $3000 to $15,000. In 2012, for example, the Indonesian government planned for 110 projects worth almost $41 billion for the eight designated sectors in MP3EI — agriculture, mining, energy, industrial, marine, tourism, telecommunications and the development of strategic areas. This creates a pressing need for infrastructure development and a huge potential market for the security industry to tap into.

Thailand
Having recovered from the devastating floods of 2011, the Thai economy is expected to grow 6 to 8 percent in 2013, estimated US Commercial Service. Not just another high-growth market in Asia, Thailand is also the largest security market in Asia with plenty of security opportunities. The Thai security market was expected to grow 30 percent by the end of 2012; the Thai government would account for 70 percent of this growth.

Government needs for security stem from a recent counternarcotics drive; border tensions with Cambodia that require higher technology in surveillance and transport infrastructure; a general increase in security expenditure for Bangkok and the south due to ongoing violence since 2004; and rising crime rates. According to US Commercial Service estimates, government verticals account for a large share of the security market at 50 percent, while retail and office complexes account for 30 percent, and industrial facilities and universities take the remaining 20 percent.

Over the last two years, growth in the adoption of IP-based security technology has been phenomenal. This trend is expected to continue, especially with a nationwide fiber-to- the-home project that will rev up data speeds to 100 Mbps. Hence, the IP market is expected to grow 30 to 40 percent; not only are private sectors seeing more IP-based product adoptions, but government projects are also specifying IP-based systems.

In the following year, major projects that will bring opportunities to the security industry include the following. The Thai government has pledged up to $5.6 billion over the next five years for the development of its railway systems. There are also plans to expand the Bangkok Mass Transit, the Laem Chabang Port, the Suvarnabhumi Airport, and to invest in high-speed train networks, along with two new prison facilities. In the prison vertical, the government is planning to introduce electronic prisoner monitoring and combat the smuggling of contrabands such as mobile phones.

Commercially, industry experts estimate that the completion of four large shopping complexes in Bangkok, namely Central Plaza Rama IX, Terminal 21, Mega Bangna and Central Embassy, will generate 750,000 square meters of additional retail space in need of security systems and services.

US MVaaS solution provider seals $1.3M city surveillance deal with Taipei

Editor / Provider: Iveda Solutions | Updated: 12/25/2012 | Article type: Government & Public Services

Iveda Solutions, the provider in cloud video surveillance services, is pleased to announce that its Taiwan-based subsidiary MEGAsys has just won an approximately US$1.3 million contract from the New Taipei City government, to further assist the metropolis' police department.

American Dynamics, part of Tyco, releases hybrid recorder and desktop NVR

Editor / Provider: American Dynamics | Updated: 12/24/2012 | Article type: Security 50

American Dynamics, part of the Security Products business unit of Tyco, has introduced its VideoEdge Hybrid recorder and Desktop NVR, using the victor unified client. VideoEdge Hybrid is a powerful, high-performance NVMS that records and manages video from both analog and IP cameras, protecting your video investments. The new Hybrid expands on the VideoEdge portfolio, which has tripled since its introduction in 2008, offering a full suite of NVR solutions for all size businesses. The Desktop NVR offers 200Mbps throughput (100Mbps to storage and 100Mbps playback to clients), the highest in the industry.

Both the VideoEdge Hybrid and Desktop NVR form factors offer high performance recording solutions, which make these ideal choices for small to medium size businesses.

“VideoEdge Hybrid and Desktop NVR have been specifically developed for single-site businesses looking for a comprehensive video solution to manage their analog and IP camera infrastructure without the overhead of multiple computers,” stated Shahar Ze'evi, senior Product Manager of American Dynamics.

VideoEdge Hybrid and Desktop NVR are fast, easy to use and cost-effective, all while delivering the powerful features customers have come to expect from the VideoEdge portfolio, including dynamic bandwidth management, embedded video analytics, and health monitoring. With the victor unified client, you can do live monitoring, record on alarms, event management, mapping and more from one unified interface. “The new VideoEdge hardware platforms are a direct result of listening to our customers and partners who were looking for more flexible and cost-effective recording solutions,” Ze'evi continued. “Our VideoEdge portfolio has the robust feature set many were looking for – it was a matter of making the hardware platforms more accessible to customers in smaller applications, while still providing them with a fully featured recorder and future scalability.”

Leveraging the powerful platform on which VideoEdge was developed, the Hybrid and Desktop NVR supports MJPEG, MPEG-4 and H.264 compression, and up to 18TB of onboard storage. Additionally, all VideoEdge platforms support the VideoEdge Go mobile app, providing visibility of video surveillance from anywhere.

VideoEdge Hybrid and Desktop NVR are available through Tyco Security Products worldwide distribution channel.

State of video affairs in 2013

Editor / Provider: Schneider Electric | Updated: 12/20/2012 | Article type: Hot Topics

As we finish out the year, it seems the worst of the global downturn is finally behind us. The security market is energized and upbeat, and there is a lot of positive momentum happening within the Schneider Electric buildings business, especially with Pelco video surveillance products. Now more than ever, the market is demanding technologies and solutions that will take security and building management to the next level.

With video being integrated with access control and other building management functions, the industry is looking for the ability to blend multiple tools and technologies into powerful integrated solutions, and this is where the strengths of the Schneider Electric buildings business really shine.

We have had many video security accomplishments this year. As always, we keep our focus on delivering to security professionals the best image quality possible. In support of this focus, we have delivered a number of technological advancements and product updates and releases. Just to name one, we now offer powerful thermal imaging systems at an affordable price for mainstream security applications. The added business potential of this new product is huge, especially with its ease of integration, advanced image quality and affordability.

Breakthroughs
There are many significant new product technologies on the horizon that will have a large impact on our industry. Most notably, we are now working diligently to design the next generation of video management systems, which will also involve cloud-based services for public and private video security networks.

A big issue for the future design of VMS's is scalability. Where we used to worry almost exclusively about the number of cameras and monitors within a system, we now see scalability in terms of the number of simultaneous (and separate) operators interacting with the system. Video system users no longer reside exclusively within the security department. Other business functions are requiring system access as well. And while this expansion of users and stakeholders helps make the ROI case for video systems more attractive, the number of users, their familiarity with the system, and their unique needs introduce new challenges for system architecture and secure administration.

Another motivating factor for our industry is the increased demand for mobile access. For the first time this year, iPads outshipped laptops. As the tablet sector continues to grow and dominate the market, more of the applications we use daily are moving onto these mobile devices. We are challenged to design mobile apps that can do much more than simply view video from a camera on an iPad. The challenge is in how will we incorporate mobile technologies to solve real security problems. Over the next couple of years, we will see VMS systems become more intuitive and easier to use, and we'll see the designations between hardware, software, mobile apps and the cloud blur into comprehensive systems.

And no doubt a new generation of intelligent video and video analytics products will add additional capabilities. Designed to help security professionals do more with less, intelligent video systems are evolving into powerful tools that can be relied upon for providing continuous monitoring of scenes and assets 24/7. The next generation of intelligent video systems will exhibit significant advancements in accuracy, reliability and usability. From tracking and counting behaviors, to character and object recognition, these powerful tools will continue to become more closely integrated into cameras, edge devices and VMS's.

Increasing Commoditization
Commoditization is indeed a trend. As products continue to become smaller, more powerful, and less expensive, we will continue to provide competitively priced, feature-rich products that meet the needs of security professionals. I am proud to say that in early 2013, we will introduce a couple new families of general purpose, IP-based cameras. We wll share more information when the time is right, but these new, general purpose IP cameras are based on our popular Sarix camera technology, and bring a very unique new function and form to this segment of affordable cameras.

And yes, as touched on above in the VMS discussion, cloud recording is an upcoming trend. Cloud recording, cloud-based storage, cloud-based video management and SaaS applications are all tools that will no doubt have much influence on the future of our industry. Cloud products will certainly address the needs of some of our customers, will enhance the systems of others, and may not be appropriate for the security needs of others, but it is our goal to utilize these powerful new capabilities to provide the best, most flexible, and most secure end-to-end solutions possible.

It is easy to get swept up into the possibilities of technology, but no matter how smart or advanced a security system may be, without excellent image quality, it is almost useless. From continuing to offer the best in analog camera performance, to digital systems that perform with excellent bandwidth efficiency, to now-affordable thermal imaging that brings a completely new dimension of video system possibilities, we must stay true to what security professionals really need, a great image to make good decisions.

Growth Pockets
As you know, video security applies to all vertical markets, all around the world. And with the explosion of new digital and IP-based technologies, and a migration toward network integration systems, we have seen big interest in all areas. As products become smaller, less expensive and easier to use, their implementation continues to rise. But there are a number of vertical market hot spots, if you will, that we seem to be continuously working within and developing new business.

With that said, we continue to see excellent growth in key regions such as China, India, and South America. North America is now making a positive turn, and it has been interesting to watch how fully EMEA has embraced IP video and has really become a leading region for deploying sophisticated IP-based video systems.

To focus on one topic of significant interest, much is happening within the area of “smart cities”. Cities currently house 50 percent of the world's population, and more than 300 million people are predicted to move to cities over the next 10 years. This explosive growth will place great demands on resources and mobility. Video security offers a unique solution for protecting people and property within countless applications – from bridges to airports, refineries to pipelines, seaports to highways, city centers to country borders, schools to prisons.

Advances in technology are driving dramatic change, as video platforms migrate from analog to digital and to network-based solutions. IP-based video surveillance has made it cost-effective to deploy video cameras and recording solutions in more places than ever before, while allowing the integration of video security systems with access control and other building automation systems.

Customers First
As segments of the video security market continue to become more commoditized, it is important that integrators work to differentiate themselves and add customer value by offering unique services and expertise. As successful integrators know, the revenue from the product sale is just one part of the entire “sale” and the long-term service and support for that client is very important. Pre- and post-sale activities are critical. Integrators have experience, knowledge and expertise that are very valuable. From technical system design and security consulting, to updates and expansion, and service and support, there are many ways for integrators to extend their customer relationships, and provide long-term services that are beneficial to all involved.

Being the manufacturer, we go to great lengths to make sure we understand our customers' business challenges and opportunities. As markets and technologies evolve, so should our services and policies. It is our mission to provide technology innovations, a wide range of products, and service and support for our customers, who in turn can leverage our products and services for the advancement of their business.

For example, there is nothing more important for security installers and integrators than being able to accurately plan and manage their business while having the confidence to provide solid commitments to their customers. With our new 24/90 guarantees, we are helping our customers do just that. On-demand product availability is critical for security professionals. Understanding their need to accurately plan and control inventory, and react to changing business demands at a moment's notice, we have made significant investments in our supply chain to ensure that our top-selling and most popular Pelco products and systems are always available for shipment within one business day of order confirmation.

We have a long history of offering high-quality, innovative video security products and exceptional customer service. Immediate availability of products and no-questions-asked returns provides a real business advantage for our dealers, integrators, and distributors. We have made significant investments in order to meet our customers' needs and to get Pelco products into their hands quickly.

Products and technologies are extremely important, and so are the policies, services and support systems that stand behind the products. We very much keep in mind that our customers have business of their own to manage, and we do everything we can to help make that business a success.

Hikvision expands HiWatch IP portfolio

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 12/14/2012 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision, the global provider of video surveillance products and solutions, is proud to unveil three new HD network products into its expanding HiWatch product portfolio. These include Hikvision's DS-2CD2012-I 1.3MP IR mini bullet camera, DS-2CD2112-I 1.3MP IR mini outdoor dome camera, as well as a recording device – Hikvision's DS-7600NI-SE(/P) plug & play embedded NVR. Hikvision's HiWatch series is geared towards a broad portfolio of surveillance solutions for small-to-medium-sized enterprises. These newly introduced HiWatch IP products are cost-effective, yet still benefit users with high-quality monitoring, ease of use, and ease of installation – a perfect choice for home and business monitoring.

Both cameras, the DS-2CD2012-I and DS-2CD2112-I, feature compact designs, enhanced low-light performance and efficient encoding capability. Equipped with 30 IR LEDs, both cameras are able to deliver outstanding video images with long-range visibility of up-to 30 meters in a completely dark environment. Images are further enhanced with 3D DNR, which works to greatly reduce noise and motion blur, as well as WDR functionality to ensure image clarity in strong lighting contrast environments. Additionally, these two new IP models are developed based on Hikvision's latest platform for network cameras that offer higher compression efficiency (approximately 30 percent to 50 percent above traditional network cameras). This significantly reduces the transmission burden for both video information and storage on IP surveillance systems. In addition, these two new cameras are both IP66 rated for outdoor applications, while the DS-2CD2112-I also incorporates vandal-proof housing.

These two new HiWatch IP cameras are both PoE equipped, while the DS-7600NI-SE(/P) NVR supports up-to four independent PoE network interfaces and auto-discover the connected IP cameras for IP address auto-allocation. Through the simple act of plugging a cable into a network interface, the front-end cameras' IP address is automatically configured to transmit a live view and store video. Moreover, this NVR supports HDMI and VGA output at up-to 1920x1080p resolution, which benefits users with high-definition video image viewing. Incorporated with customization of tags for video information, this NVR further allows users complete control over their systems to locate key events more efficiently. The DS-7600NI-SE(/P) supports HDD quota management for video storage optimization, and 2 SATA hard disks are equipped with capacity of up to 4TB each.

As well, the three new HD network products all support open protocols to expand integration with other devices. The DS-2CD2012-I and DS-2CD2112-I are both ONVIF, PSIA and CGI conformant; while the DS-7600NI-SE(/P) supports third-party network cameras, to provide versatile solutions for different surveillance needs.

Hikvision IP cams now work on Digiever NVRs

Editor / Provider: Digiever | Updated: 12/13/2012 | Article type: Security 50

Digiever, the manufacturer of Linux-embedded standalone NVR, announces that Digiever NVR series supports Hikvision network cameras. With full integration with Hikvision, one of famous brands in video surveillance industry, DIGISTOR NVR and Hikvision network cameras together provide applications in various segments surveillance, especially in need of high megapixel definition, from SOHO to enterprise level, presenting video recording surveillance systems with extreme high quality.

Digiever DIGISTOR NVR series provides advanced event management for diversified event types and event handling actions, such as event triggered recording, e-mailing snapshots and video clips, SMS and user-defined actions by HTTP URL commands, etc. The event handling options include digital outputs reaction on built-in DI/DO interface of DIGISTOR NVR. Furthermore, DIGISTOR NVR series also provides outstanding performance in local display with Full HD. For instance, DIGISTOR DS-4200 Pro series, the 4-bay NVR, and DIGISTOR DS-8200-RM Pro series, the 8-bay rack-mount type NVR, support 1/4/9/12/16/20/25-channel display modes and enable HD resolution hardware decoding for video output via HDMI and VGA connectors. Users can simultaneously monitor up to 25 channels in 1920x1080 (Full HD) with maximum of 200 fps or in 1080x720 (HD) with maximum of 300fps monitoring performance with unique local display features. The throughput of above-mentioned models are capable of reaching up to 360Mbps which not only brings out high megapixel video transmission, but also meets the essentials for Full HD and high megapixel IP cameras, fulfilling the need of high megapixel IP video recording surveillance nowadays.

“We are pleased to have established partnership with Digiever,” commented Keen Yao, International Marketing Director of Hikvision. “Hikvision's megapixel imaging technology and network video recording expertise of Digiever together offers our combined customers the most advantageous megapixel experience. Customers will be glad to find new gains from a video surveillance system that incorporates both Hikvision IP cameras, including the latest HD megapixel range, and Digiever video recording solution.”

Hikvision network cameras come with several resolutions, including 1.3MP, 2MP, 3MP and 5MP, etc, with all boasting a range of technological features, such as wide dynamic range, low light capability, 3D digital noise reduction, and much more. The camera installation is also made easier with PoE function. Moreover, ONVIF and PSIA protocols are supported as well.

“Customers are looking forward to the upcoming integration of Hikvision network cameras and Digiever DIGISTOR NVR for a long period of time with excitement, they are now waiting for providing this solid video recording surveillance solution to customers of both parties,” declared by Allen Tseng, Product Manager of Digiever. “Our integration will be continued. Digiever will keep cooperating with Hikvision for meeting the requirements of market.

Thermal cameras help secure chemical plant in South Africa

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 12/12/2012 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Mission
AECI’s Chemserve Systems provides chemical products to a diverse range of industries. Their site at Chloorkop, a small industrial town just outside of Johannesburg, was being monitored by four different analog camera systems, making effective security surveillance extremely difficult. A decision was taken to consolidate and upgrade the existing solution.

Solution
Seasoned IP CCTV and systems integration provider, SLA Group, designed and installed a cohesive solution, using Axis network cameras, that offers complete perimeter coverage and extensive internal monitoring capabilities. The main entrance control room maintains centralized control of the entire system, while the IT server room records & acts as a main buffer for the whole system, thereby reducing the risk of an incident or intrusion failing detection by security personnel.

Result
The vacant land that borders the north and west sides of the Chloorkop AECI’s site no longer poses a threat to the security of the premises. Previously this open area was responsible for continuous trespassing and the removal of large quantities of valuable stock. Thanks to the installation of Axis thermal network cameras, even complete darkness cannot offer criminals a place to hide.

“It is imperative that warehouses, administrative buildings, workshops and storage tankers are under 24-hour surveillance. This ensures that our customer has complete control of the entire site at all times,” remarks Alexandre Teixeira at SLA Groups. “Any movement after working hours will automatically trigger an alarm that security officers can react to immediately. The Axis PTZ network cameras provide a visual of what security can expect to encounter during these responses.”

A fortified boundary
SLA Group has over 24 years’ experience in the design, manufacture and installation of CCTV and automation systems for the power generation, mining, iron and steel and chemical industries. This sustained involvement allows SLA Group to offer best value for money solutions without compromising on quality, reliability or long term stability.

“We realized that AECI - Chempark perimeter was a major security issue that required careful attention and meticulous product investigation,” says Teixeira. “The Axis Q1910-E thermal network camera presented itself as the most intelligent option.” Axis Q1910-E uses thermal imaging to detect people objects and incidents in complete darkness or challenging conditions such as smoke, haze, dust and light fog.

For a long time thermal imaging was too costly for any application outside of the military, however, as price is driven down by improved technology, it is rapidly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the security and surveillance industry. Creating images based on the heat that is generated by any object, person or vehicle and requiring no additional light source, thermal cameras are ideal for securing perimeters and dark or shadowed areas.

Crisp, high definition images
The main entrance to the site and the internal roads are monitored by Axis P1344 network cameras. The firstrate HDTV image quality of Axis camers ensures that control room personnel are able to view video surveillance of the highest possible resolution in the zones where clarity and detail are absolutely critical. “Picture quality and ease of installation were just two of the many reasons that we selected Axis as our IP partner for this project,” remarks Teixeira. “Every single corridor, intersection, entrance and exit needs to be accessible by the surveillance cameras. The versatility of the Axis-based solution makes this entirely possible.”

Looking into the 2013 crystal ball

Editor / Provider: By John Shi, a&s International | Updated: 12/11/2012 | Article type: Hot Topics

The global financial crisis and ensuing recession in 2008/2009 shook the security industry and shattered the myth that the industry is immune to the ups and downs of economic cycles. The security industry used to be largely driven by infrastructural projects and government investments, and the austerity measures in the U.S. and E.U. in the aftermath meant slashed budgets or frozen/postponed projects. With matured economies at a standstill, all eyes are on emerging regions such as Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Asia. As 2012 is almost behind us, the focus should now be on the year ahead. a&s sums up the storms in 2012 and peeks into the possible trends and prospects of clear skies in the upcoming year.

Industry Restructuring
Manufacturers and solutions providers are confronted with intense competition, which causes prices to fall and, in turn, batters the distribution channels with declining revenues and margins. No industry player is spared from the challenge of how to increase revenues while sustaining solution affordability and profits. Cost-effective solutions from internationally known brands are crushing the industry from the top, while low-price Chinese products do so from the bottom. Together, the two forces affect the entire security industry on all levels, forcing manufacturers, distributors, systems integrators and installers to regroup and evolve.

In the survival-of-the-fittest game, companies must adapt to changing technologies and market conditions, as even the traditional giants are toppling over in the battlefield, with new giants rising at the same time. As the saying goes, heroes are created in times of war.

In channel distribution, value-added is the buzzword. More are focusing on packaging and delivering complete systems or comprehensive solutions, as well as strengthening project/technical support and customer service. This, in turn, is pushing manufacturers to add previously unfamiliar product lines, either through M&A's or internal development, to diversify revenue streams.

IP on Cloud Nine
At our own Secutech show in Taipei in 2011, IP cameras from both large brands and small manufacturers were tested and compared side by side; at that time, specifications varied greatly despite ONVIF conformance claims. Fast forward to April 2012, and the second IP camera testing event saw much improved and consistent conformance in terms of image quality and connectivity. This maturation had occurred within the time span of just one year and should serve as a strong signal for the video surveillance industry: IP cameras will now be differentiated by brands, sales/marketing efforts, customer service, and in 2013, price/cost-effectiveness as well.

The maturation of IP-based applications, coupled with the maturation of cloud infrastructure, is propelling the adoption of security as a service. End users no longer need to invest large amounts in infrastructure and maintenance because they can now subscribe monthly to more reliable and consistent service packages. Service providers can now enjoy more stable revenues and reinvest in solution and business model differentiation efforts.

Access Making a Comeback
Not surprisingly, access control is riding along with the IP waves. Wireless electronic locks and NFC stand out as noteworthy trends. Wireless capability enables easy and fast installation and provides flexibility and possibility for user-adjustable site configurations. Real-time management and remote control are other frequently referenced benefits.

Biometrics is another segment witnessing new, exciting applications. High-hazard locations such as mining and construction sites can, for example, deploy portable, ruggedized units to verify training/safety certifications, on top of regular payroll and access audits. In an emergency, crew can be accurately accounted for in a matter of seconds to make rescue missions more effective.

Enterprise China
The impact of China as a manufacturing powerhouse is not to be dismissed. Take a Russian distributor for example. The company used to concentrate on selling Korean and Taiwanese products, but had to greatly increase the quantities of Chinese products in recent months, as its competitors have begun selling Chinese products. If it had not followed suit, it would have gone under due to this year's unresolved global financial and economic crises. China as an end-user market is also maturing very quickly, weeding out unfit local and international players or their underdeveloped solutions.

Residential With High Potential
The high and increasing penetration of smart mobile devices is facilitating R&D in security. Homeowners and business owners alike can now easily keep a watchful eye on their properties or operations anywhere, anytime. Traditional installers and alarm-monitoring companies are hard pressed to learn and change very quickly or disappear, as new technologies, players (telcos, ISPs, cable TV providers) and service models emerge every day.

Count Down to Clear Skies
The past year has been rough for some, but resilience and persistence in creating differentiation in solution offerings, value adds and service models will pay off. Despite economic uncertainty, security in 2013 is still worth anticipating for. Spring will come when the new industry and market order falls into place.

Paris 'geeks' bar streamlines operations and heightens security with IP video surveillance

Editor / Provider: Axis Communications | Updated: 12/11/2012 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Mission
Dernier Bar is new establishments open since June 2012. The management wanted to implement a system of video surveillance to ensure good business management and at the same time ensure the security of the premises day and night, taking into account the layout, ease of use of the system and its potential for adaptation.

Solution
The decision to use Axis network cameras was taken on account of their reputation and price. Axis partner CISDEC brought with it expertise in terms of general advice, financial controls, installation and maintenance, and as a result Axis Camera Companion and four Axis M3204-V network cameras were chosen.

Result
The bundle solution was implemented in half a day due to the PoE technology where the electricity uses the network cables. The management can now use Axis Camera Companion (ACC) unassisted. The cameras can be operated from a PC or from a smartphone and in due course the management hopes to add other cameras.

Conditions to be respected
Certain factors had to be taken into account concerning the premises. Firstly, the solution had to provide maximum coverage taking into consideration the layout of the place, the many doors, the stairs and the different floors. Additionally, there are numerous figurines in the bar area that form the main decorative feature and which could not be damaged. The Bar needed a simple solution that was easy for the management to use and which would be autonomous with regard to the connection and overview of image recordings.

A ready-made solution
The Bar already knew about Axis cameras due to their reputation and price. Afterwards CISDEC provided their expertise with regard to general advice, financial considerations, installation and maintenance. Given the particular constraints of the Dernier Bar, the solution to use ACC made perfect sense. It is the simplest small video surveillance system on the market. All videos are recorded on SD cards that are put in the cameras; therefore it is not necessary to use digital recorders or servers.

“The major advantage of ACC is its efficiency: it is simple to set up with a very clear interface and is user-friendly for the client. This is a solution which is able to respond to the client's needs because it is ideally suited to small and mid-sized businesses,“ adds Stephan Napas from CISDEC.

The choice of cameras was focused on 4 Axis M3204-V network cameras, equipped with convenient features such as video motion detection and tampering alerts, varifocal objective lens and pixel counter.

“We delivered a bundle solution, that is to say one that is comprehensive including the hardware, camera and software solutions. This package has convinced the client of the quality of Axis products,” explains Napas.

The installation took just half a day thanks to the bundle solution package and PoE technology (whereby the electricity passes through the network cables). The management was able to then quickly make use of the system and is already considering the installation of additional cameras for better monitoring of the premises.