IP Video Architecture: Distributed or Centralized?

This article discusses the scalability problems which arise when an IP video surveillance system is based on centralized architecture, and how distributed architecture delivers a flexible and scalable solution that can lead to systems being deployed across sites, cities and countries.

Access Control 2.0: Endless Possibilities

The world of access control has fundamentally changed. The system that used to just open doors now improves information security, increases productivity, more effectively manages scarce resources, enhances guest experiences and produces revenue for the end user where previously there were only costs.

Home Automation System Shipments to Approach 2.8 Million Units in 2011

Largely undeterred by current negative economic conditions, vendors of home automation systems are expected to ship nearly 2.8 million units of them in 2011, according to a new study from ABI Research.

Network Control Devices Form the Backbone of IP Security

IP surveillance is a definite trend, made possible through a reliable network. Fierce competition in the IP market offers more flexible networks to users. A&S looks at ways to build an efficient and cost-effective IP network.

Network Dome Cameras Focus on Security

Network dome cameras offer wide views and the connectivity of IP, forming a combination in global demand.

Asian NVRs Gaining Traction

As video surveillance shifts to IP-based systems, NVR vendors in Asia are ready to ride the next wave.

Video Encoders Pave the Path to IP

With worldwide recession at the forefront, video surveillance users turn to encoders as a cost-effective and efficient migration path to IP. A&S investigates the market potential for video encoders, the differentiating criteria and its applications outside of security. Additionally, the competitive features of video encoders and the reasons why analog cameras set with encoders have leverage over n

IT Resellers Should Watch out for IP

As video surveillance migrates toward digital technology, demand has flourished throughout the world. Despite this, the traditional IT channel has been underprepared to provide migration paths from analog CCTV systems to new digital or mixed environments. Stuart Thorn, CEO of IT peripherals vendor Electrone Europe, explains how technology resellers and system integrators are now in a prime positio

Next-Gen Surveillance Storage

As surveillance systems grow lager in scale and become accessible via the Internet, resolution improves by leaps and bounds, and video is stored for ever-longer periods, both hardware and software developers are busy working on next-generation data storage and management. a&s International takes a closer look at recent breakthroughs.

QNAP Unveils World's First NVR with Multiserver Monitoring

QNAP Security announced a new firmware version 2.8 for its entire VioStor NVR series (VioStor-101/ 201/ 5020) to support the world's first innovative multi-server monitoring. By the firmware update, the VioStor NVR becomes a highly expandable network surveillance system which is capable of monitoring up to 120 channels simultaneously.