RUGGED CAMERAS
Climate conditions in Russia are not always kind to security equipment. Outdoor cameras are required to operate in subzero temperatures, requiring tough cameras. The heaters that keep the cameras from freezing usually make cameras a drain on power.
Local vendors have designed low-power outdoor cameras expressly for the Russian climate. “It operates in temperatures as low as -50 degrees Celsius,” Eroshin said. Vandal-proof models are also in demand, using polycarbonate housings to withstand tough knocks.
INTEGRATION
High-level integration remains rare in Russia, for instances of deeply integrating multiple systems such as video surveillance, access control, intrusion and fire safety. While large multinationals may have complex integration, most local companies keep security systems separated in their respective niches, Guchia said.
This was particularly glaring during the investigation of the January Moscow attack. When the authorities tried to reconstruct the events, they found three agencies were responsible for airport security. “They were absolutely independent and had no connection,” Guchia said.
Open platforms are being developed to break down barriers to communication. ITV tries to integrate as many manufacturers as it can, including video surveillance, access control and fire, so operators can choose equipment that best suit their needs, Ostrovskaya said.
HD-SDI
Russia's large analog base makes HD-SDI or HDcctv solutions a good fit. While the technology is currently too expensive, it holds potential. “I think HD will be a good competitor to IP,” said Vladimir Osipov, VP of Satro-Paladin Security Systems. “But I don't see high demand in Russia.”
Some limitations remain, such as CMOS low-light imaging issues. “If the technology produces something that gives us high-resolution video for low-lux situations, that will be good for Russia,” Ekaterina said. Other issues include limited storage options and transmission constraints for HD-SDI.
SI AND VMS PLAYERS ENTER DISTRIBUTION
Channels in Russian security are still developing. While IP and software distribution is still in its infancy, some system integrators and VMS providers have stepped into this niche. One VMS provider has a distribution arm which sells hardware to its system integrators, who perform the installation. This distribution branch offers computers and cameras along with VMS , making it a one-stop shop. It does not conflict with major distributors, as they have existing relationships with system integrators, while its installers work in a different niche.
LOCAL PRODUCTION
More local production is done in Russia. Brands such as Byterg became No. 1 for camera market share in 2010. Other manufacturers include control panel and building automation manufacturer Bolid, as well as software providers EVS and ITV.
Byterg makes 40 different models of cameras, along with distributing Samsung and CNB products, Eroshin said. However, its own-brand products make up most of its sales.
Bolid started out with fire and intrusion alarms 20 years ago, then progressed to access control and video surveillance. “Our position is that everything should work together,” said Igor Babanov, CEO of NVP Bolid. “Fire alarms should work with access control to open doors. We began integrating video surveillance in 2005 when we migrated toward software.”