Infrared Surveillance

Ajax Systems has officially joined the Fire Industry Association (FIA). The FIA is the largest fire protection trade association in Europe, and its membership provides access to a wide network of industry professionals and resources that play a crucial role in improving fire safety standards. By joining the FIA, Ajax Systems develops credibility, visibility, and opportunities to collaborate with more than 1,000 industry members. Enriching the fire safety community "Ajax Systems is committed to investing in the UK fire safety market. As a pioneering global manufacturer, partnering with such a major contributor to the fire safety industry is essential. With over 200 working groups and extensive education initiatives benefiting 40,000 professionals, the FIA’s influence is indisputable," said Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems and board member at the FIA. He adds, "Our partnership with the FIA is not just about mutual benefit; it signifies a shared commitment to enriching the fire safety community with cutting-edge technology and knowledge. Together, we are shaping a better industry that prioritises safety and excellence." FireProtect detectors The company gained valuable experience from the wide application of FireProtect detectors Ajax Systems entered fire safety in 2016 with the release of the first Ajax fire detector, FireProtect, which was later evolved into a new model with an added CO sensor, FireProtect Plus. Over the years, the company gained valuable experience from the wide application of FireProtect detectors, which sparked the idea of revolutionising the industry. Ajax Systems studied the industry players who do not risk changing their products for years. The company came to realise that professionals tend to work with outdated equipment, while users receive fire protection with minimal features passing the requirements of the standard. FireProtect 2 series In 2022, after a year of devoted development, the FireProtect 2 series was introduced, with next-gen fire detectors featuring innovative patented detection technologies, easy installation, minimal maintenance, and remote configuration and testing via Ajax apps.  The FireProtect 2 series is already available in 17 models with different sensor combinations and power supply options. The detectors are already certified according to various fire safety standards: EN 14604:2005/AC:2008 EN 50291-1:2018 EN 54-5:2017+A1:2018 BS 5839-6 (Grade F1) BS 5839-6 (Grade D1) AS 3786:2014 UL 268 CAN/ULC-S529 UL 2075 CAN/ULC-S588 And more certifications are on the way: BS 5446-2:2003 (in progress) BSI Kitemark (in progress) Recognition in the fire safety industry Ajax Systems entered the UK market at the end of 2018 and quickly gained recognition in the British professional security community. In 2023, the company won Security or Fire ESG Initiative Of The Year at the Security & Fire Excellence Awards, the most prestigious British award in the industry. In March 2024, Ajax Systems appointed Paul Pope as the new Global Head of the Fire & Life Safety Business.

OPTEX’s UK team will be exhibiting at The Security Event to showcase its latest innovations in advanced intrusion detection technology, including its multi-award-winning REDSCAN LiDAR series, through a series of live demonstrations. REDSCAN LiDARs For high-security sites, OPTEX will demonstrate the precision and accuracy of its award-winning REDSCAN LiDARs. Extremely reliable, the sensors can be mounted horizontally to create high-resolution virtual laser planes to protect roofs and skylights, or vertically to create virtual laser walls to protect narrow spaces and high-value assets.  Various models, providing short and long-range detection, will be showcased live, including the latest addition to the series, REDSCAN mini-Pro, which provides an extra layer of security intelligence by including a built-in IR camera for ultra-fast visual verification. EchoPoint™ Distributed Acoustic Sensors (DAS) The sensors utilise intelligent detection algorithms to provide point detection of +/- 6m For large perimeters such as airports, logistic centres, solar farms, and critical infrastructure sites, OPTEX will demonstrate its latest evolution in fibre optic sensing solutions, EchoPoint™ Distributed Acoustic Sensors (DAS). The sensors utilise intelligent detection algorithms to provide point detection of +/- 6m in a range of up to 100km, with the ability to be operated across multiple applications installed on fences above ground, buried, or in a hybrid layout.   Intrusion detectors  At the stand, OPTEX will also showcase its wide range portfolio of intrusion detectors for commercial premises. This will include showing the versatility and accuracy of the FlipX series which features a bespoke pyroelectric sensor for increased detection performance that adapts to the human shape.  FlipX effectively gives installers ‘two sensors in one’ to satisfy multiple customer demands. By simply rotating the lens through 180°, the sensor can be used to protect narrow or long areas such as a hallway or warehouse aisle up to 18m, or a wide, open area like a living room or retail store up to 12m at 85°.  Sensing and detection technologies Lawrence Peters, OPTEX Head of Sales – UK and Ireland, says The Security Event provides the ideal opportunity to engage with partners and customers from across the UK security industry, “Throughout the event, we will be running engaging and interactive live demonstrations on the stand,” he says. “Visitors will be able to see and experience how our portfolio of pioneering sensing and detection technologies including LiDAR, fibre optic, passive infrared, and visual verification as well as our latest developments in smart connectivity for security and surveillance systems, can be utilised to provide highly accurate and reliable detection within a multi-layered security system to suit the specific needs of a variety of environments.”

FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company released the FLIR CM276 professional clamp metre with infrared imaging, a visual camera, and solar photovoltaic (PV) direct current (DC) built for electrical test and measurement.  The CM276 empowers electrical professionals to troubleshoot electrical system components with Infrared Guided Measurement (IGM™) and radiometric multispectral dynamic imaging (MSX), which overlays visible camera details onto the thermal image, helping users safely execute inspections and identify hazards before contact is made. FLIR CM276 “The FLIR CM276 is the most versatile clamp metre in its class, providing dual-thermal visible imagery, even in total darkness thanks to the new LED work light, and this helps inspectors identify potential issues safely and quickly,” said Rob Milner, Global Business Development Director, FLIR. He adds, “To speed post-inspection workflows and data sharing between up to seven devices, testing results can be shared with colleagues and clients through the free METERLiNK app available on iOS and Android, supporting thermal, visible, and MSX images and video clips, individually, or as part of a comprehensive post-inspection report.” Commercial and industrial electrical inspection It features variable frequency drive (VFD) mode, True RMS, and LoZ mode for other advanced electrical test The CM276 is an effective tool for a variety of commercial and industrial electrical inspection needs, including solar PV DC measurements up to 1500 V with optional PV test leads. It features variable frequency drive (VFD) mode, True RMS, and Low Impedance (LoZ) mode for other advanced electrical test and measurement needs, enabling inspectors to leverage one tool for various scenarios. CM276 components Built into the CM276 are a 160 x 120 thermal resolution Lepton thermal camera module, a visible camera, and an LED worklight for illuminating dark cabinets and spaces. Everything is housed inside a ruggedised casing that is IP40-rated and drop-tested up to two metres. The clamp metre includes in-device rechargeable lithium polymer batteries for all-day use, meaning users never need to worry about carrying around extra batteries or packs. Bluetooth® integration with METERLiNK app Each CM276 clamp metre can store up to 30,000 radiometric images and 100 log files on board During and after inspections, operators can leverage the METERLiNK app to review metre logs, examine data trends, and share results with team members. Each CM276 clamp metre can store up to 30,000 radiometric images and 100 log files on board, making report generation simple. 10-year limited warranty The CM276 includes one set of CAT IV-600V/ CAT III-1000V Test Leads, a USB Type-A-to-C cable, a storage pouch, a quick start guide, and a 10-year limited warranty. Users may purchase separately the optional TA85 - PV test leads (CAT III-1500V) and the TA86 - MC4 PV plug leads (CAT III-1500V) for solar power inspections.

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection is introducing a new infrared (IR) sensor for its class-pioneering OLCT 100 XPIR (explosion-proof IR) fixed gas detector that will bring the advantages of stable and reliable methane detection measurements to the industrial, utility, and laboratory markets. Methane detection Methane poses many threats. Not only does it form potentially explosive mixtures with air, but it can also prove harmful to humans and the environment.  For these reasons, many sectors are keen to improve their methane detection capabilities. Increasing demand from the industrial, utility, and laboratory markets stems from the need for enhanced measurement stability, aligning with the trend of lower alarm thresholds. IR technology IR technology becomes apparent when considering factors such as TCO especially where methane is present The economic advantage of investing in IR technology becomes apparent when considering factors such as total cost of ownership (TCO), especially in environments where gases such as methane are present. In such applications, IR technology outperforms catalytic oxidation, a process that typically requires recurring sensor replacements and frequent calibration. IR methane sensor To meet market demand for a more robust and cost-effective solution, Teledyne GFD is releasing a new IR sensor dedicated to methane detection. Designed for the company’s highly popular OLCT 100 XPIR fixed gas detector, the IR sensor ensures measurement stability and is impervious to catalytic poisons. Moreover, the solution offers a long lifespan, even with the presence of background gas, to deliver 100% LEL methane detection. Operation principle As IR sensors do not require oxygen to operate, these sensors are also suitable for use in 0-100% by volume To explain the principle of operation, IR methane sensors deploy two wavelengths of IR energy: one active wavelength for gas absorption and one providing a reference wavelength to compensate for the impact of temperature and humidity. As IR sensors do not require oxygen to operate, these sensors are also suitable for use in 0-100% by volume methane gas environments. The ATEX-approved OLCT 100 XPIR, a proven performer in the detection of refrigerant, CO2, and combustible gases, comes with 4-20mA output ensuring safe and reliable operation. Reliable, and cost-effective detection “Our new OLCT 100 XPIR with IR methane sensor ensures the protection of workers, assets, and the environment from the potentially damaging and harmful effects of methane,” explains Régis Prévost, Product Line Manager at Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection. Régis Prévost adds, “Our expert design and development team is constantly looking at ways to meet the demands of customers, helping them overcome real market challenges. With this new product, they have access to a stable, reliable, and cost-effective way of performing methane detection measurements.” Availability with gas detectors Finally, the same IR sensor technology is available with Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection’s 700 series of fixed gas detectors. These advanced instruments display sensor status information on a built-in alphanumeric LED screen.

ELATEC Inc., a world-renowned developer and manufacturer of innovative RFID products, announced the appointment of Sarah Bowling as the VP of Business Development and Marketing. Bowling will play a pivotal role in driving the company's growth strategy by aggressively expanding its customer base in the Americas.  Bowling's primary objective As ELATEC focuses on adding new customers to sustain its growth trajectory, Bowling's primary objective will be to collaborate with the territory sales team. She will assist in target account identification, develop customer-specific engagement plans, and guide the team through initial opportunity engagements. Bowling will leverage her extensive experience in direct key account sales, marketing, and business development in physical access security, mobile credentials, and cloud-based video surveillance markets.  Bowling's work experience Bowling has demonstrated a keen ability to improve market reach and exposure With an impressive career spanning senior management and VP-level roles at prominent companies such as Tyco Security, WaveLynx, Eagle Eye Networks, Zerv, and SAFR, Bowling brings a wealth of experience to ELATEC. Her expertise includes building enterprise client bases, creating custom pricing packages, and developing solutions for clients across various verticals. Notably, Bowling has demonstrated a keen ability to improve market reach and exposure through effective marketing management.   Business development and marketing efforts "Please join me in welcoming Sarah to the ELATEC team," said Paul Massey, CEO of ELATEC Inc., adding "We are excited to have someone of Sarah's caliber pioneering our business development and marketing efforts. Her extensive experience and impressive network will undoubtedly drive ELATEC's continued success." Bowling currently divides her time between Los Angeles, California, and Vancouver, Canada, and will report directly to Paul Massey. 

Port Glasgow-based site security firm Safer Scotland has secured its first international partnership deal amid substantial business growth and rebranded as Safer Group. Founded in 2016 by Greenock entrepreneur Ryan Clark, the business specialises in protecting construction sites, infrastructure, and assets with its high-tech intruder detection system, known as Safer Pod. Safer Pod S1 intruder detection system The business has grown strongly since its inception roughly doubling in size every 18 months. It has recorded its best year to date, which saw annual turnover soar from £5m to £12m and staff headcount exceed 60. “Our growth over the past year has been largely due to the launch of our Safer Pod S1 intruder detection system,” said CEO Ryan Clark. “We’ve built and deployed 1000 units in the past 12 months. In all my years working in security, I’ve never known a product to be adopted so quickly." International partnership Our first international partnership, with VPS Group, will bring our pods to new markets in France, Germany, and Spain" “This success led us directly to our first international partnership, with VPS Group, which will bring our pods to new markets in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, and the Netherlands, as well as the rest of the UK." “In addition, our framework deal with infrastructure group Balfour Beatty agreed in June 2022, has also contributed to this year’s achievements.” Additional property The company’s rapid growth trajectory has seen it outgrow its current HQ at Kelburn Business Park, Port Glasgow, and its sales and marketing office in Paisley. Clark recently doubled the firm’s footprint by signing a lease on a second 6,000 sq ft unit at the Inverclyde industrial estate.  “This additional property will become a home for our support staff, allowing our current unit to become a dedicated research and testing facility for our new products,” he explained. “As the team grows further, I hope to be able to recruit locally wherever possible to give the Inverclyde jobs market a boost.” Improving opportunities for local people Clark has further ambitions for the company, which prompted the rebrand to Safer Group A Greenock resident, Clark is passionate about improving opportunities for local people and sponsors several young sportspeople and clubs, including MMA fighter Reece McEwan, Greenock Boxing Club, Greenock Juniors FC, and the local Jiu-Jitzu club. Clark has further ambitions for the company, which prompted the rebrand to Safer Group. “When we started seven years ago as a small security equipment hire business, ‘Safer Scotland’ reflected our local emphasis,” he explained. Next goal “But as we branch out into new markets across the UK and internationally via our new partnership with VPS Group, it is time to change our focus."  “Our next goal is to partner with more organisations internationally and keep growing, the USA would be the dream market for us to crack next.”

With the rise of organised retail crime (ORC) making headlines, retailers are grappling with the dual challenge of safeguarding both their staff and store assets, while addressing the economic pressures that impact profitability and consumer demand.  RFID technology The key lies in identifying effective solutions to counter the current surge in ORC, enabling retailers to secure their vulnerable staff and protect inventory for paying customers. Technology plays a crucial role in supporting brands on this mission, with RFID technology continuing to be a valuable solution. It aids retailers in gaining better control over retail crime, leveraging inventory data.  The ongoing surge in retail crime  Inflation has elevated the challenges around affording items, prompting criminals to target the retail sector Seen as a global issue, the British Retail Consortium recently reported that incidents of theft have increased by 27% across 10 of the largest cities in the UK, with some cities reporting up to a 68% increase. In the US, retailer Target reported an inventory loss of $500 million for 2023, amounting to a 100-basis point hit to gross margins in 2023. The current surge in theft is not attributed to a singular cause. Inflation has elevated the challenges around affording items, prompting criminals to target the retail sector. Lack of preventive measures A significant contributing factor is the lack of sufficient preventive measures by law enforcement, which in some cases has led to a rise in more severe incidents. However, the implementation of technologies like RFID allows retailers to efficiently build cases against criminals, putting them in a stronger position when it comes to reporting thefts.  Not all retail crimes are orchestrated by large entities or executed through sophisticated methods. Some stores have seen a reduction in staff numbers and, as a result, there are fewer people on the shop floor, making it easier for shoplifters to carry out their activities unnoticed. The true impact of retail crime  Over 70% of retailers believed the threat of ORC had increased over the past five years, according to a recent survey The impact of retail crime on businesses extends beyond financial and economic consequences; it has also led to a surge in violence against retail staff, an ongoing trend elevated by the pandemic. Over 70% of retailers believed the threat of ORC had increased over the past five years, according to a recent survey conducted by the National Retail Federation. This escalation in violence not only results in immediate repercussions but also contributes to long-term mental health issues for staff, fostering an atmosphere of insecurity that has compelled some retailers to close their physical stores. Policy implementation Given the challenge of staff retention across various businesses, addressing retail crime becomes an even more urgent matter. Additionally, retailers are wary of their employees facing potential danger and the prospect of legal action. Consequently, many have implemented policies prohibiting employees from actively intervening when confronted with shoplifters.  Privacy concerns with facial recognition Retail crime also affects customers, as businesses seek to offset losses by raising prices Retail crime also affects customers, as businesses seek to offset losses by raising prices, further burdening financially strained consumers. The presence of visible security systems not only makes stores more hostile but also diminishes the overall customer experience. While facial recognition technology is considered a potential solution, privacy concerns have emerged in its various applications.  Today’s problems, yesterday’s solutions Retailers are resorting to historic measures such as steel cables, physical monitoring, or plastic screens to resolve customer issues. However, the reality is that these solutions are unfit for solving the problem, causing friction for both customers and staff.  Digital solutions The newer approach involves equipping retail staff with body cams and providing new training The newer approach involves equipping retail staff with body cams and providing new training to deter shoplifters. Some stores are even offering the police discounted food and beverages to encourage their presence.  The responsibility lies with management teams to seek effective solutions. In an era dominated by data and technology, retailers must shift their focus from traditional security methods to digital solutions that align with the challenges of today’s society and modern retail environments.  Shrinkage When discussing theft or organised retail crime, retailers commonly use the term "shrinkage," referring to not only theft but the broader issue of lost inventory. Additional drivers of shrinkage include damage, fraud, and internal theft.  A significant problem arises as losses are often based on guesswork and estimates rather than concrete numbers. Retailers may lack a comprehensive understanding of their inventories, further increasing the issue of shrinkage.  Combating shrinkage  Utilising RFID technology notably helps in boosting inventory accuracy Some retailers still struggle with limited knowledge of the whereabouts of items, a challenge heightened by the issue of shrinkage. Utilising RFID technology notably helps in boosting inventory accuracy. This enhancement enables retailers to obtain a clearer understanding of their inventory and the precise locations of items.  Comprehensive strategy Changes in the in-store experience have highlighted the relevance of RFID, especially as self-service checkouts encounter double the shrinkage levels compared to traditional checkout stores.  To combat retail theft effectively, a comprehensive strategy should involve the integration of labels, deactivation, electronic article surveillance, and data analytics. This combination works synergistically to reduce shrinkage and enhance product availability.  Retail data analytics platforms RFID data can swiftly alert nearby stores, providing an opportunity for staff to monitor shop floors Linking hardware to an underlying data analytics platform empowers retailers to make more informed decisions. Retail data analytics platforms delve into alarms, deactivations, and visitor metrics, providing a deeper understanding of theft patterns.  RFID technology drives efficiency by pinpointing frequently stolen items, allowing for the identification of theft patterns. In instances of flash mobs in major metropolitan areas, RFID data can swiftly alert nearby stores, providing an opportunity for staff to monitor shop floors and incoming customers. Real-time optimisation  The crucial question remains whether both shoppers and retailers are prepared to shoulder the responsibility for these additional precautions. Nevertheless, these changes leverage data more effectively, optimising loss prevention strategies almost in real-time rather than relying on biannual inventory counts, therefore transitioning from static to dynamic loss prevention.  Holistic approach Striking a balance between security measures and providing a seamless shopping experience is key In a retail environment, not all items require protection, and prioritising the safeguarding of the most frequently stolen and valuable items can significantly impact shrinkage.  A holistic approach to retail theft is imperative, considering the entire journey of an item through the retail environment. Striking a balance between security measures and providing a seamless shopping experience is key.  Protection without hindrance  As stores move towards being checkout-free, retail criminals (or ORC gangs) will be presented with lucrative opportunities to steal, so retailers need to be one step ahead by introducing unobtrusive and effective technology solutions. For example, case building can be improved with item-level data.  RFID data offers a more precise means of assessing the value of stolen items compared to relying solely on CCTV. It provides detailed insights into the specific items removed from the store and the timing of these incidents. This proves beneficial in tracking repeat offenders.  Increased visibility with a proactive approach The modern retail environment continues to evolve and criminals are never far behind. RFID technology plays a crucial role in minimising shrinkage by enhancing inventory visibility. Moreover, it leverages the power of data to stay ahead, enabling better predictions of retail crime and the formulation of prevention strategies. This proactive approach allows for the implementation of more tailored solutions to alter outcomes positively.

Open platform video technology software is more than just a product; it's a tool that helps customers achieve their desired business outcomes. Safety, round-the-clock security, and increased operational efficiencies are now the norm due to video technology. Responsible Technology Despite humanity’s impressive technological advances, we also recognise the immense responsibility that comes with technological innovation. It's not enough to focus solely on the positive impact video technology can make, we must also be vigilant in identifying and addressing any potential negative consequences it can have on society and its citizens. This is the role of Responsible Technology. Data privacy We want to use all the good things that technology innovation brings, whether it be video, AI, ML, facial recognition, etc. We want to use all the good things that technology innovation brings, whether it be video, Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, facial recognition, etc. to serve people in societies in a responsible way. That means making sure that we regulate technology in a way that respects human rights and data privacy. Addressing the challenges The challenge is, that rather often technology leaders and policymakers either have conflicting interests or collaborate too late. To be responsible, business leaders must support their societies and policymakers in making regulations in the interest of the common good. At Milestone Systems, we are actively looking at how we develop our software responsibly, how our partners responsibly sell our software, and very importantly, how our customers use our software with a responsible mindset. Ensuring good corporate governance As a long-time partner within the security industry, we’re celebrating our 25th Anniversary this year, we are supporting the regulation of video technology for the good of society. However, it of course needs to strike the fine line between the right legislation and not hindering innovation.  UNGP The UNGP is the most authoritative and widely adopted set of principles for responsible business At Milestone Systems, we want to play an active role in this and that is why we have pledged our support to the UN's Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP). The UNGP is the most authoritative and widely adopted set of principles for responsible business. The principles call on governments and companies to identify, prevent, mitigate, and remedy actual and potential human rights abuses. Since its launch in 2011, the UNGPs have received wide support from states, civil society organisations, and the private sector, making them the key global foundation for business and human rights. Protect, respect, and remedy Through this commitment, we are taking steps to ensure good corporate governance and ethical standards in the development of our technology. We're generating mechanisms to prevent misuse and we are building educational practices internally. Based on the UNGP’s three pillars: protect, respect, and remedy, we are developing a set of Responsible Technology Principles and procedures for the development, selling, and use of our products. Need for video technology regulation In addition, we are currently evaluating all the various technology areas in which our video software can be used, such as with third-party integrations that utilise e.g., facial recognition. We are mapping out the advantages and disadvantages for societies. One key area of concern is how local authorities are mapping and storing data about us as individuals. This is the reason why we're inviting more legislation to regulate video technology rather than less. Engaging With policymakers We are meeting ministers and trade organisations as we believe this needs to be a joint effort where all parties are heard We are proactively reaching out to and connecting with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to discuss our approach to and take on Responsible Technology and encouraging the political landscape to work with us around regulation and legislation. We are meeting ministers and trade organisations as we believe this needs to be a joint effort where all parties are heard and where we can openly weigh the advantages and the challenges of technology, whether it is video, facial recognition, machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, or other technologies. Striking a balance Implementing Responsible Technology is a journey, not a destination. To give it the focus needed, we have created a dedicated team to implement this initiative at Milestone Systems. At the same time, we are reaching out to the political landscape to discuss how we balance regulation without hindering innovation. Video technology used ethically We are a global company with worldwide operations, and we are having dialogues about how video technology is being used and how we can have meaningful talks about what regulation and legislation should look like. However, we don’t necessarily want to limit access to the technology itself. Facial recognition We encourage the policymakers to engage with us in the industry so that together we can strike the fine line Facial recognition is a great example of this. The EU is considering making live facial recognition illegal. That would be a huge inhibitor of proactive terrorism prevention. For example, if a well-known terrorist is walking down the street and is being mapped out against Interpol’s most wanted list, the authorities should be able to react. However, if a person walking down the street but is not mapped out or does not have any priors then the city should not be allowed to store the data of that individual’s whereabouts at that point in time. This potential legislation is concerning to me as a citizen of Europe. Instead, we encourage the policymakers to engage with us in the industry so that together we can strike the fine line for the better good of all of us. Maintaining high ethical standards We have a firm understanding and expectation that ethical standards are a huge driver in the security business. Citizens are not in favour of technology companies abusing data about them and monetising from things that they have not opted in to do. Soon, I think we will see many more companies and governments leaning toward suppliers that do have a responsible mindset and high ethical standards for partnerships. Ethical practices Our journey toward Responsible Technology is an ongoing process, and we must remain steadfast in our commitment to ethical practices and the protection of human rights. We recognise that the rapidly changing technological landscape continually presents new challenges and opportunities. For this reason, we continuously look into how we can improve, for example, our end user licence agreements to avoid potential human rights abuses. An industry responsibility Security companies must prioritise careful planning and preparation, including developing policies and procedures For Responsible Technology to truly become a reality, compliance with international human rights laws and data privacy regulations is critical. Security companies must prioritise careful planning and preparation, including developing policies and procedures that govern the ethical use of video surveillance systems. The secure and ethical community In today's technology environment where deep integrations, machine learning, and artificial intelligence are becoming the norm, Responsible Technology is more relevant than ever. The security industry has a unique opportunity to set an example for other sectors by promoting a secure and ethical development community that prioritises Responsible Technology, trustworthy data collection, and the protection of human rights. We must all rise to this challenge and embrace our role as ethical leaders for the greater good of both people and societies.

Inadequate security measures on your essential infrastructure can have severe consequences.  Consequences  Consider the rail industry: If a vandal cuts the cables on a vital mechanism that controls train signals, train safety is jeopardised. To avoid train collisions or derailments and thus significant damage to property and potential loss of life, the operating company must shut down the service until the infrastructure is repaired and the network is up and running again. The disruption affects the rail ecosystem itself, but also the people using the trains, the transportation of cargo, and more. The financial cost of repairing the damage, restoring signal functionality, and compensating for delays can be substantial. For another example, consider electrical substations: A fire or targeted attack can damage the system and lead to devastating power outages.     Traditional surveillance limitations  Traditional video surveillance has its limits when it comes to protecting transformer stations Traditional video surveillance has its limits when it comes to protecting transformer stations. The facilities are often located in rural areas, where straying animals or flying leaves trigger false alarms. 3D Surveillance solutions overcome these challenges by volumetrically securing the area and immediately detecting intruders only raising the alarm in the event of a human intruder and even identifying drone attacks.  Protecting critical infrastructure with 3D surveillance  Critical infrastructure must be monitored. It remains at risk if operators do not have systems for monitoring entire areas rather than just the periphery if security personnel has limited information in case of an intrusion and if security response protocols are not automated.  3D Surveillance solutions 3D Surveillance is an important tool for protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of those who rely on it. Integrating LiDAR technology, 3D Surveillance solutions provide a comprehensive view of the area being monitored with real-time monitoring and response, protecting critical infrastructure from damage and providing a more comprehensive security system. Advanced analytics and artificial intelligence Security personnel can identify and verify threats more easily and track the movements of individuals or vehicles, as well as respond to incidents as they happen. 3D Surveillance systems can be equipped with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to detect patterns and anomalies that may indicate a potential threat. This can help to prevent potential attacks or accidents before they occur, as well as enable more accurate responses to incidents.  Talent challenge  Turning to autonomy by implementing sensor- and software-based solutions requires fewer if any, in-person patrols 3D Surveillance can also help tackle the talent challenge in the industry: Recruiting security professionals involves extensive background checks, and jobs in the industry are notorious for their low salaries, which results in high staff turnover. Turning to autonomy by implementing sensor- and software-based solutions requires fewer if any, in-person patrols and ensure reliable infrastructure protection.   Additional security measures In many countries, more stringent legislation now mandates the implementation of additional security measures to safeguard critical infrastructure, particularly at a country's points of entry, such as airports and harbours. Protecting the perimeter is no longer enough. For instance, airport management must ensure that critical areas, including the space around aircraft and near unauthorised access points, are secure. While multi-layered screening of individuals at the perimeter is a valuable security measure, it must be complemented by smooth and efficient surveillance of the entire area, which can only be achieved through advanced technology.   Different adoption rates 3D Surveillance technology is only beginning to gain traction in most locations, and adoption rates differ significantly from one region to another. For instance, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe have embraced 3D Surveillance to a greater extent than Western Europe. Regions with lower adoption rates will likely catch up as they seek to reinforce the security of their critical infrastructure, especially given the conflict in Eastern Europe.  Vandalism and damage protection 3D Surveillance enhances the security of critical infrastructure, reduces the risk of downtime and loss of revenue 3D Surveillance offers reliable protection against vandalism and damage - major concerns for companies that rely on critical infrastructure. LiDAR-based, software-enhanced 3D Surveillance solutions provide real-time insights and enable automatic processing of the information so that operators can autonomously and quickly detect and respond to potential threats. These solutions are scalable and customisable, allowing companies to adapt their security measures to their unique needs and changing environments. 3D Surveillance enhances the security of critical infrastructure, reduces the risk of downtime and loss of revenue, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Asset management and maintenance planning Beyond its security benefits, 3D Surveillance can help with tasks such as asset management and maintenance planning. It can help identify potential problems or maintenance needs before they become more serious issues by providing a real-time view of the monitored infrastructure. This can help to reduce downtime and keep critical infrastructure running smoothly.  Real-time management  The same technology can also perform volume monitoring tasks and thus facilitate the management of valuable resources such as bulk material, grain, wood chips, or chemicals. By scanning the stock 24/7 and automatically calculating stock volume updating records in real-time, this technology supports lean production systems and automated processing. 

The COVID-19 global pandemic will have a profound and lasting impact on the physical security industry. It will boost adoption of new technologies to address new types of threats. It will map out a path for new involvement of physical security technologies in areas of public health. It will raise new notions of privacy and turn previous thinking about privacy on its head. And the aftermath of the pandemic will give rise to all these changes in a breathtakingly accelerated timeframe. In the wake of the pandemic, change will come faster than ever, and the industry will be more challenged than ever to keep pace. Security and the futureIn the wake of the pandemic, change will come faster than ever, and the industry will be more challenged than ever to keep pace These were some of the thoughts I heard recently in a panel discussion titled “Crisis and the Everyday,” which was part of Genetec’s Connect’DX virtual trade show, April 20-21. The virtual conversation – emphasising both in form and content the current topsy-turvy state of the world – included interesting insights on the current pandemic and its near- and long-term impact on the industry. “In the middle of this pandemic, there is an opportunity to help security reinvent itself,” said Brad Brekke, Principal, The Brekke Group, one of the panelists. “Amid the business disruption, we should ask ‘what’s the new playbook?’ It’s an opportunity for security to look at ourselves now and look at a business plan of what the future might look like. We need to align with the business model of the corporation and define our role more around business and not so much around security. “How do you support the business and, more broadly, societies and communities?” The new normal for security The “new normal” for security will include addressing biological risks alongside our traditional emphasis on physical risk and digital risk. “Some industry sectors are being challenged in a way I have not seen in my lifetime,” said Brekke. “But they are learning fast.” “We should take a look at where we have been and where we are going,” said Brekke, whose firm develops comprehensive strategies to align security organisations with corporate missions. “This is a point in time that has never existed, and a time to take a fresh look at what security is to the corporation and greater community. It’s more a mindset than a specific set of tasks. “We just need to take a fresh look from a mix of perspectives.” “Crisis and the Everyday" was part of Genetec’s Connect’DX virtual trade show Infrared cameras and access control technologies New technologies to address the pandemic are enabling some nations around the world to track how people come and go and who they are exposed to. Technologies like infrared cameras are being used to detect body temperatures, and access control helps to monitor occupancy and social distancing. But what will such use of these technologies mean in the long term? Technologies like infrared cameras are being used to detect body temperatures, and access control helps to monitor occupancy and social distancing “We will see whether people will become more comfortable with this technology,” said Ken Lochiatto, President and CEO, Convergint Technologies, a service-based security integration company. “Tools are in hand, and coming soon, that will allow us to be more proactive, to step in and measure the health of colleagues, for example,” said Lochiatto. “There are a lot of questions that will have to be addressed, and a lot of discussion will have to happen. Coronavirus will knock down the barriers (to the use of newer technology) in the short term, but where will it settle two years from now?” Manufacturer philanthropy Security product manufacturers are expanding their scope beyond law enforcement and emergency management and stepping forward to help with the public good. “Technology in the security space is moving faster than the political establishment is thinking about,” adds Lochiatto. “We have to manage it as an industry so the government will not step in. We need to manage the discussion.” An accelerated timeline will raise the stakes even further. “All the questions that would have taken longer to answer will be answered in the next 6-8 months. For the security industry, it will drive even greater need for products,” said Lochiatto. “The biggest question is ‘Where does this all go?’” said Brekke. “What is the new normal? What is the future, and how do we prepare our companies for it? What does technology look like in the future? There isn’t just one particular set of questions, just a constant stream of ‘What’s next?’” Public health versus individual liberty The current environment of disruption will shift the playbook and rebalance the tradeoff between privacy and protection, especially as it pertains to sharing medical information. “There will be a new balance between public health and safety as a whole versus individual liberties,” said Brekke. “Technology providers need to be at the table talking about the solutions. We should all be engaged in government affairs to balance the discussion and add our own perspectives. As a society and country, we have to come to a different perspective on this.” The current environment of disruption will shift the playbook and rebalance the tradeoff between privacy and protection “There are not enough ethics and guard rails,” said Jonathan Ballon, Vice President and General Manager, Intel Corp. “The majority of people are not afraid enough. They should be afraid; we need more regulation. We need to establish an ethical code of conduct for use of technology in these situations. We need to eliminate bias, respect individuals, and ensure people are being treated fairly. “In the next several years, there will be a lot of experimentation in the quest to get to a future state we can see and almost grasp. There will be black eyes and bruises on the path to getting there.” From smart security to more intelligent technology After the pandemic, the innovation climate will befit new technology adoption. “Platforms are only limited by our imaginations, and it creates an extraordinary opportunity and drives a lot of economic value,” said Ballon. “Long-term, the future is extremely bright. Companies should ensure that they are resilient and take advantage of another period of technology adoption, which we see coming out of every economic downturn.” After the pandemic, the innovation climate will befit new technology adoption Another evolution in the market is a transition from “smart” systems to more “intelligent” ones. Intelligence includes the ability to “learn” using tools such as deep learning and artificial intelligence. “Systems are going from smart to intelligent to autonomous, including systems that can operate within the constraints we have established,” said Ballon. Pierre Racz, president and CEO of Genetec, offered some words of caution about the growth of artificial intelligence in his keynote presentation, “AI Hype Self Defense.” Racz sought to provide guidance on the limits of the technology and urged the online audience to be skeptical of technology that “works best when you need it least.” “Science and technology are morally neutral,” he said. “How we use them is not.” Intelligent automation over artificial intelligence Specifically, Racz contends that artificial intelligence “doesn’t exist” and provides the “reasoning power of an earthworm”. AI systems don’t know anything that isn’t included in their input data – for better and for worse. Racz contends that artificial intelligence “doesn’t exist” and provides the “reasoning power of an earthworm” “A properly designed system can be useful [only] if you engineer around the false positives, false negatives and the unanticipated training set biases,” said Racz. For example, because AI is based on probabilities, it doesn’t perform as well when identifying improbable things. In lieu of “artificial intelligence,” Racz recommends the term “intelligent automation” (IA), which describes using a machine (computer) for heavy computational lifting and keeping a human in the loop to provide intuition and creativity. “Do not misinterpret crafty guessing for intelligence or thinking,” Racz warns. “AI doesn’t exist, but real stupidity exists. And we must design our systems taking into account the legitimate fears of the public we serve.”

The excitement of ISC West 2019 continued until the very end – almost. Exhilarated by the first two busy days of the show, attendees and exhibitors seemed to welcome a slower third day. There were no complaints about booth traffic, and still plenty of thoughtful conversations taking place, everyone determined to maximise the value of face time with customers until the last second. Building an IoT ecosystem in SAST At a show lacking in high-profile new technology announcements, the biggest news is perhaps the possible long-term impact of first-time exhibitor Security and Safety Things (SAST), a Bosch startup. SAST is building a new Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for the security and safety industry, including an app store, an open and secure camera operating system, a software developer environment, and a portal for integrators. SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable" Their 1,800-square-foot booth was big for a first-time exhibitor, and the American football theme was well received, as was the substance of the company’s effort to drive innovation in a highly fragmented industry. Seeing actual cameras and apps on display at the ISC West booth is “more real than PowerPoint,” says Hartmut Schaper, CEO of Security and Safety Things (SAST). “For us, seeing is believing,” says Schaper. “It was important for us to show cameras and apps for the first time. People are surprised at how far down the road we are.” “This dynamic will change in the industry,” says Schaper. “SOCs (system-on-chips inside cameras) are becoming much more capable. Soon there will be more processing power on the edge. People will find a way to use the extra processing power.” “Seeing is believing” at the SAST booth at ISC West 2019, where CEO Hartmut Schaper showed several manufacturers’ cameras whose functionality can be expanded using Android apps Developing more apps Several large manufacturers are already involved in the initiative, but there are some holdouts. “We are having ongoing talks with everyone to convince them to join,” Schaper says. “Some of the bigger ones will come around. We are not a camera manufacturer, and not a threat. We are owned by Bosch but are managed completely separately. There will be more and more apps developed, and momentum will increase.” “A year from now we will have successful customers we can talk about, and more camera manufacturers on board,” he says. “This year we are taxiing on the runway, but next year we will have cleared the tarmac and be climbing.” If the approach succeeds, their first appearance at ISC West will be remembered as historic. Future of surveillance cameras Off the show floor, in a nearby meeting room, chip maker Ambarella demonstrated technologies that will be driving the future of video surveillance cameras, including more intelligence at the edge. “People have been using more traditional video analytics approaches, though most of them have been disappointing,” says Chris Day, Ambarella VP of Marketing and Business Development. “What is ground-breaking now is the use of neural networks and real artificial intelligence, which has increased capabilities 100x. "You will see camera products coming out over the next year that are massively better than before. It’s not just incrementally getting better. Cameras will be coming out later this year with analytics that are absolutely amazing based on [the new chips.]” Larry Anderson, editor-in-chief of SecurityInformed.com, talks about Ambarella HDR and Low Light Solutions with Jerome Gigot, Senior Director of Marketing for Ambarella. (Source: Ambarella) New systems-on-chips Ambarella has introduced four new systems-on-chips (SoCs) in the last year, with emphasis on computer vision (video analytics). The newest is the S6LM Camera SoC with 4K imaging technology, unveiled at ISC West. The S6LM includes Ambarella's latest high dynamic range (HDR) and low-light processing technology, highly efficient 4K H.264 and H.265 encoding, multi-streaming, on-chip 360-degree de-warping, cyber-security features, and a quad-core CPU. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff" “With so much focus on AI and computer vision, I’m concerned the industry has taken focus away from low light imaging, wide dynamic range and image quality,” says Day. “You have to see the details in an image. People shouldn’t forget what a good camera is, and there doesn’t have to be a tradeoff, it’s all included in one chip.” From products to systems With a new general manager on board (Daniel Gundlach, formerly of Bosch), FLIR Systems Security Division is continuing its transition from a product company to a solutions provider, removing internal silos to clear the path. FLIR offers a strong end-to-end portfolio for Smart Cities applications, including the TruWITNESS line of body worn cameras and newly acquired Aeryon drones. FLIR’s historical strength as the top thermal imaging provider continues, but today they are much more than a thermal imaging company, offering visible day/night cameras, infrared pan-tilt-zoom cameras, video management systems and other technologies to provide a broader platform. FLIR's Saros security cameras combine multiple security technologies, including thermal sensors, high-resolution visible imaging, IR and visible LED illuminators, onboard analytics and two-way audio and digital input/outputs. Products in critical infrastructure applications In addition to Safe Cities, FLIR installs a range of products in critical infrastructure applications, such as oil and gas and electric utilities. Ports also tend to combine traditional security with an emphasis on perimeter protection, a FLIR strength. Existing perimeter protection applications can open opportunities for the broader platform. For example, installing a complete system in an airport that already uses FLIR’s thermal technology represents “low-hanging fruit” for the company, says Fredrik Wallberg, FLIR Director of Marketing – Security and Intelligent Transportation Systems. Ambarella demonstrates its latest imaging technology for video security during ISC West 2019 (Source: Ambarella) Integrated solutions Bosch's focus At the Bosch booth, there was an emphasis on integrated solutions and the customer experience. A mock retail store setup demonstrated systems such as overhead cameras for people counting and alarm communication to provide an alert if a refrigerator door is left ajar. A wireless panic button generates a silent alarm, communicates with a 2-way radio, and triggers a camera to focus on the area. An AVIOTEK IP camera alarms if there is a fire, based on observing actual flames rather than smoke. A new Bosch fixed dome camera series offers wireless remote commissioning capabilities that reduce installation and set-up time by up to 75 percent. Set-up only takes three steps: install the mounting bracket, connect the cables, and attach the camera module. Commissioning can be done wirelessly or remotely with no need for ladders or lifts. Dahua marks five years in the U.S. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view Time flies in the security industry, and it has already been five years since the Dahua brand entered the U.S. market. Today the company offers products through ADI and some 20 distributors, and has more than 30 technical consultants and technical support employees and 50 or 60 sales people in the field (including independent rep firms). “We are growing,” says Tim Shen, Director of Marketing at Dahua Technology USA. “It’s exciting for the company.” At ISC West, Dahua introduced a line of Multi-Flex panoramic cameras with lens modules that can be repositioned along an internal track for 180-, 270- or 360-degree views, providing flexibility for integrators. An IR illuminator is attached to each lens module to ensure there is always illumination in the field of view. Cost savings come from ease of installation (one camera instead of four) and only one VMS license (instead of four). AI and night colour cameras  Dahua is also emphasising its Night Colour cameras that remain in full colour mode regardless of how dark it gets. There is no IR illumination or IR cut filter – the camera stays in color mode and displays any visible image in colour with as little as 1 lux of illumination. The 2 megapixel version is on display at ISC West, and a 4 megapixel version will come in the fall. A year ago at ISC West, Dahua emphasised its initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI) in order to position the company as a technology leader. This year, the message was more general – ‘Power Through Technology.’ The range of Dahua technologies includes AI, Night Colour, Starlight low-light imaging, fifth-generation HDCVI, and e-POE (Enhanced Power over Ethernet). Dahua USA's Director of Marketing says "the market itself likes AI", and expects more AI applications to follow (Source: Dahua USA's LinkedIn) “When we present AI to customers, they are happy, but when it comes to the budget they don’t have it,” says Shen. “The market itself likes AI, and it’s very much a buzzword. But we still need a proof of concept that it can do something good for end users. We need time to develop broader applications. The ‘smart retail’ market and education are good places to start.” he says. “AI is for project business,” adds Jennifer Hackenburg, Dahua’s Senior Product Marketing Manager. “Projects that are looking at AI haven’t come to fruition yet; they are still in the pipeline. It’s not for your everyday business. They are implementing it, but not as fast.” Access control beyond doors Access control should extend beyond doors. That’s the message I heard at the ASSA ABLOY booth, which displayed a variety of physical locks and intelligent access systems. An example is traffic cabinets, those metal boxes in public locations that could potentially be accessed to invade an internal network. ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces ASSA ABLOY emphasises the need to secure the variety of enclosures, cabinets, drawers and small spaces throughout an enterprise. The company’s ‘security continuum’ message draws attention to the need for the right level of security for the right opening, using existing infrastructure as well as new electronic technologies. “Customers face a combination of non-traditional access control and questions on how they can secure things that are not doors,” says David Corbin, ASSA ABLOY Director of Access Control Accessories. The security message is resonating beyond the traditional security department to involve other stakeholders in an enterprise, including IT directors. There is new awareness of vulnerabilities that have been there forever, such as traffic cabinets that can be opened with a key purchased on eBay.

Security is among the defining topics at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 this week in Las Vegas. More than 4,500 exhibiting companies are participating, including some 1,200 startups, highlighting the next wave of innovation in consumer electronics – and security. Twenty-four product categories at CES feature solutions to transform how consumers live, work and play. Technologies being highlighted include 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality, smart homes, smart cities, and machine intelligence. Video is an important element at CES. This year, the focus is on intelligent video. For example, Eyecloud.ai, Santa Clara, Calif., is displaying a home security camera with on-device face recognition that uses AI. Powered by a 12-core Intel Movidius VPU (video processing unit), the camera combines AI-on-the-edge with easy setup and wirefree operation for up to six months per battery charge. On-device artificial intelligence On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation SimCam, an Intel partner, demonstrates how the Intel Movidius VPU can turn a security camera into ‘the ultimate vision-based sensor’. On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation. A variety of other residential video systems are also on display at CES. For example, Swann Security is displaying 4K wired security systems featuring Google integration, a wireless smart security camera with True Detect heat-based PIR (photo infrared) motion detection, a video doorbell and chime with two-way talk, and indoor and outdoor wi-fi cameras with Alexa integrations. Intelligent automotive solutions Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES. It combines advanced image processing, high-resolution video encoding and CVflow computer vision (video analytics) processing in a single, extremely low-power design. The CVflow architecture provides Deep Neural Network (DNN) processing required for a new generation of affordable and intelligent home monitoring, professional surveillance and aftermarket automotive solutions. CV25 offers half the performance of Ambarella’s previously released CV22 chip, but the new chip’s lower cost will bring intelligent cameras to a price point desirable for home systems. All Ambarella’s chips have hardware-based cybersecurity. A suite of advanced cybersecurity features protects against hacking, including secure boot, TrustZone, and I/O virtualisation. Based on 10nm ultra-low power processing technology, the CV25 chip is optimised for wirefree cameras applications that require long battery life and small form factors. Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES Virtual security guards Elsewhere, the Deep Sentinel home security system applies video and AI to predict residential break-ins ‘before they happen’. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based tech startup uses ‘AI-infused security cameras’ to keep an eye on your home. Three wireless 1080p full HD cameras provide night vision and PIR motion sensing, connected by a smart hub. Using proprietary artificial intelligence, the cameras act as virtual guards, watching activity around a house and providing alerts to situations that may lead to burglaries, break-ins, package thefts and other dangers. My Safe Patrol is an AI-driven platform that analyses data aggregated from security personnel, citizen alert systems and IoT smart devices, and responds with geolocated alerts in real-time. My Safe Patrol effectively supports the security/safety ecosystem of a building, a campus, a city or a district through a dynamic dashboard that helps command and control operations manage and deploy security plans. AI-integrated devices Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously MicroVision, Redmond, Wash., showcases an interactive display engine for AI-connected devices, providing an integrated solution for projected display and interactivity through multi-point touch and air gestures. MicroVision’s new consumer 3D LiDAR engine provides high-fidelity spatial awareness to smart home hubs, for input to smart devices such as lighting, security, entertainment, and thermostats. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, and ThroughTek Co., Ltd., Taiwan, demonstrates IoT developments to transmit voice, video and data over both wide- and narrow-band channels in smart home applications. Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications combined with voice assistant to companion robots, wireless doorbells, and battery cameras to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously. Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen Decayeux Group, a European manufacturer of mailboxes and high security doors, is displaying MyColisBox, a secure and connected parcel box delivery system designed to provide online shoppers a secure pickup point accessible by a PIN code sent via SMS message to a smartphone. Walter is the new mobile app for MyColisBox. Kwikset, a division of Spectrum Brands, showcases its smart lock portfolio – including three new smart locks – in the CES Smart Home Marketplace. Kwikset is showing the SmartCode 888, Kwikset Convert, Obsidian, and new designs of the SmartCode 914 and SmartCode 916, as well as a new wi-fi lock. Baldwin, Kwikset’s ‘luxury lock’ sister company, is offering a preview of its new TouchScreen Collection, launching this summer, available in five styles and featuring Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen technology. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, with many companies demonstrating IoT developments Cyber security standards Privacy is increasingly a concern in the consumer space, and Private Discuss, from PIMAN Security, is a premium, secure, white label communication solution. Their active AI-powered defense architecture provides encrypted audio and video calls, messaging and file sharing. It renders a confidential, secure messaging platform that adheres to the highest standards of cybersecurity. FLIR provides virtual reality demonstrations at their CES booth, allowing attendees to put on a virtual fire helmet and try out a FLIR camera in a real-world residential fire response scenario. Participants may also use a FLIR optical gas imaging camera virtually to stop fugitive emissions in a natural gas refinery. Booth visitors may also take “thermal selfies” to post on social media.

Yalova Terminal is a roll-on roll-off (“ro-ro”) port, meaning it is designed to carry wheeled cargo. It is Turkey’s 63rd border gate and began operations in 2017. It covers 80,000 square metres with a 500-trailer capacity and 16,000 square metres of storage, which includes an ADR warehouse for the storage of hazardous goods. On-site there are X-ray facilities, a laboratory for customs, offices, and break rooms for drivers. All of these facilities require continuous monitoring to protect staff, drivers, and the stock contained within the trailers at the port.  Monitoring 24/7  The Yalova Ro-Ro Terminal team was looking for a way to intelligently monitor activities at the port and quickly search footage for investigations if needed. Because of the size of the port, an efficient way to store and deliver video footage back to the control room and server rooms was also sought.   AI-enabled cameras reduce false alarms  Cameras provide the on-site Yalova Ro-Ro Terminal security team with alerts only to events that require their attention The team turned to installer Arte Teknoloji and Hanwha Vision to provide a robust and AI-enabled video surveillance solution comprising 48 PNO-A9081R cameras, 17 XNO-C7083Rcameras, and 7 XNP-6400RW cameras. With AI analytics carried out on the device, the cameras provide the on-site Yalova Ro-Ro Terminal security team with alerts only to events that require their attention. This frees them up to focus on other responsibilities, while the cameras constantly scan for relevant objects or possible incidents that require human input. Potential false alarms from video noise, waving trees, moving clouds, and animals are ignored by the cameras, helping to reduce operator fatigue and frustration.  Effective perimetre protection  In particular, the XNP-6400RW PTZ Plus camera provides a feature-rich PTZ camera that is designed for perimetre protection. With AI-based object auto-tracking, operators can efficiently monitor the movement of objects while remaining hands-free to control other cameras. This analytics feature is supported by leading AI algorithms unique to Hanwha Vision. The camera captures evidence-grade images of objects up to a distance of 200 metres in all lighting conditions, with the help of adaptive IR technology which adjusts the angle of the camera’s IR LEDs to match the level of zoom.  Object detection and classification for accurate responses  Object classification based on attributes can also support quick forensic searches for future investigations The PNO-A9081R is a 4K bullet AI camera that can detect people, faces, vehicles, licence plates, plus their attributes. This allows operators to understand who, and what vehicles, are entering and exiting the site, particularly around the perimetre or rolling on and off ships docked at the port. They can quickly respond to possible intrusion or unusual behaviour, reducing the risk of stock, equipment, or vehicle theft. Object classification based on attributes can also support quick forensic searches for future investigations.  BestShot feature The cameras also detect loitering, audio such as shouting or screaming, tampering with the camera itself, and shock detection. The BestShot feature automatically chooses the best images of an object, helping with bandwidth and storage efficiency as well as delivering high-quality, detailed images back to the control room.  Robust video system Having the best security, that’s intuitive to use and easy to install, was essential" Eyup Tetik, Corporate Sales Manager at ENTPA ELEKTRONİK A.Ş. explains, “It was important to the Yılport Ro-Ro team that they had a robust video system that improved situational awareness and response times, especially after the devastating earthquake in Kahramanmaraş." "As a busy international Ro-Ro Port with millions of dollars of stock and equipment, having the best security, that’s intuitive to use and easy to install, was essential.”  Steering ahead  The installation is part of the new port area and the security team looks forward to reaping the benefits of the efficiency gains, greater awareness, more detailed investigations, and faster response times as a result of the AI-powered video system. 

The University of New Haven offers a range of National Security and Public Service programmes, some of which were the first of their kind when launched decades ago. Having such a sturdy academic background, the university searched for the proper equipment to let the students practice and polish their knowledge. After thorough market research, the choice was made in favour of Regula 4308S, which is already being used in educational forensic research. Features of Regula 4308S Regula 4308S enables truly advanced examination of any crime evidence, from all kinds of documents, to fingerprints, blood stains, and more. The highest optical magnification (320x) and camera resolution (14 MP), over 40 light sources, and more than 20 light filters, as well as 3D visualisation capabilities and the ability to examine large objects, make Regula 4308S a powerful tool for forensic research. Device has modules for reading MRZs, RFID chips, hidden images (IPI), and 1D and 2D barcodes  For the purpose of identity document examination, the device has modules for reading MRZs, RFID chips, hidden images (IPI), and 1D and 2D barcodes. Plus, Regula 4308S has a unique motorised oblique lighting system, which makes it possible to change the light source's angle of incidence, and thus gives a wide range of opportunities for examining the microrelief of a document in the visible and infrared spectrum range. Author's quote “Regula’s device provides us with wide capabilities for forensic research, so our students can be easily trained on the basics they need to use. We also liked the good balance between the device’s functionality and its price. So far, I must say that our experience of using Regula 4308S is very positive,” says Dr. Josep De Alcaraz-Fossoul, Assistant Professor of Forensic Science at the University of New Haven.  “With fraud being so sophisticated these days, it’s really crucial to equip forensic experts with not only powerful tools, but what is probably more important, fundamental knowledge. We are honoured that the University of New Haven decided to rely on the capabilities of our device in their educational programmes,” comments Arif A. Mamedov, President and CEO at Regula Forensics, Inc.

Like most stadiums worldwide, the Alsancak Mustafa Denizli Stadium suffers from vandalism and riots by individual fans. To be able to better identify and track perpetrators and thus reduce financial and non-material damage, the operator opted for a video security solution from the German manufacturer Dallmeier. The Alsancak Mustafa DenizIi Stadium in Izmir–named after former Turkish football player and current football coach Mustafa Denizli–is a multipurpose stadium that mainly hosts football matches. With over 15,000 seats, it is one of the medium-sized stadiums in Türkiye. Originally built in 1929, it was demolished in 2015 and reopened after reconstruction in November 2021. Up to 15% fewer spectators due to riots Outcomes have been painful, ranging from classic fines to the closure of an entire block of viewers In Türkiye, stadiums are usually owned by the Ministry of Sport, which then grants the rights of use to an operator. In the case of the Alsancak stadium, the operator is “Altay Izmir”, an Izmir-based football club that currently plays in Türkiye’s top professional league. The club, like so many other football stadiums, has had its fair share of repeated incidents and threats to spectators and players.  These have included verbal abuse and even the throwing of objects onto the pitch. In addition to the intangible damage to the image, the consequences have been painful, ranging from traditional fines to the closure of an entire block of spectators–a loss of 1,000 to 2,000 spectators per home game, and that on a regular basis. How is image quality defined to recognise perpetrators? Under these conditions, the operators were looking for a solution that would allow them to reliably detect and track potential offenders. The tender specified a minimum resolution density of 144 pixels per metre (px/m), which is also required by law. This means that there must be at least 144 pixels in the camera image to represent every metre of “reality” in the stands. This value is between the “recognition” (125 px/m) and “identification” (250 px/m) qualities specified in the IEC EN 62676-4 standard for video surveillance systems. Only ten cameras to monitor the stands The Ministry of Sports decided to invite various manufacturers to a comparative test To find the most suitable solution for the Alsancak Stadium, the Ministry of Sports decided to invite various manufacturers to a comparative test. After receiving the proofs of concept (PoCs) of several companies, the owner chose a solution from the German manufacturer Dallmeier Electronic. In addition to around 140 single-sensor cameras for corridors, outdoor areas and entrances, only ten “Panomera®” multifocal sensor systems are required for the particularly critical grandstand surveillance. 39% more resolution than required The low number of camera systems required for grandstand surveillance is due to the patented multifocal sensor technology: Panomera® cameras combine the images from up to seven detail sensors and one overview sensor in a single camera system. This provides the user with a high-resolution overview of the entire area to be monitored, which acts as a single image of a vast environment. Within this overall picture, system operators can now open any number of detail views at the same time, while the overall scene is always available in high resolution–even during recording, which is essential for possible prosecution. This provides an optimal overview of the situation and ensures that all events can be followed in real-time, in high resolution and in detail. Thanks to this technology, a minimum of 200 px/m is now available throughout the Alsancak stadium instead of the required 144 px/m – 39 percent more than originally required. No surprises: Remote “FAT” and training from Dallmeier Türkiye Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the stadium's technicians were unable to travel to Dallmeier's headquarters in Regensburg, Germany, to commission the system and attend classroom training. For this reason, the so-called Dallmeier Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) took place online. The entire system was set up, configured and remotely accepted in the FAT centre in Regensburg. The training of the technicians and operators was carried out by Dallmeier Türkiye experts on-site The training of the technicians and operators was carried out by Dallmeier Türkiye experts on site. Serkan Atalar, CEO of RESA Construction Electromechanical Inc. Co, the installer company that implemented the project, is very pleased: “Dallmeier's sincere and collaborative approach, as well as the high-tech products and after-sale support they offered were very impressive. We thank Dallmeier Türkiye for the great cooperation.” Author's quote “The customer is very satisfied with the Panomera® systems. The benefits are equivalent to combining a powerful megapixel camera with any number of high-resolution 'virtual' PTZ cameras. At the same time, the systems reduce the total cost of ownership for infrastructure, cables, masts, screens, workstations, etc.,” Serkan Atalar summarises. “Alsancak Stadium only needs three system operators with one monitor each. They also have two workstations for the police and management. The solution always gives them 100% control of the security situation in the stadium, allowing them to react immediately and reliably track down perpetrators. And all this at a low total cost of ownership and with minimal manpower thanks to the unique multifocal sensor technology.”

Quanergy Solutions, Inc., a pioneering provider of 3D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) security solutions, was chosen by a large municipality in California, USA, in order to bolster pedestrian safety in the city's underground railways where fatality risks and costly liability issues were of growing concern. Traditional video surveillance The California city’s management had been grappling with a substantial number of missed alarms within its underground railroad system due to the intricate terrain and challenging lighting conditions. The absence of alarms when individuals trespassed onto train tracks posed a significant liability issue, endangering lives and increasing operating expenses. Traditional video surveillance systems had further proven ineffective in these environments due to inconsistent lighting and various obstructions that made it difficult to maintain a consistent field of view. Quanergy’s comprehensive solution Quanergy hyper-accurate detection and tracking of individuals in the city’s railroad system By deploying Q-track, a seamlessly integrated solution that combines long-range 3D LiDAR sensors with advanced perception software, Quanergy enables hyper-accurate detection and tracking of individuals in the city’s underground railroad system, most importantly those individuals who find their way onto dangerous railroad tracks.  Quanergy’s comprehensive solution also effectively eliminates alarm fatigue by significantly reducing false alarms. This enables operators to focus on real threats and receive actionable insights with hyper-accuracy, ensuring that no urgent alarms are missed, averting possible injuries or even fatalities. Quanergy LiDAR security solutions Thanks to Quanergy's solution, the city now reports that they have 100% accurate detection when pedestrians are on train tracks. Quanergy LiDAR security solutions are currently deployed at hundreds of critical infrastructure sites around the world, addressing a wide spectrum of mission-critical applications including perimeter intrusion detection, server rack and cabinet security, mobile security towers, mantrap/vestibule access controls, rooftop security, and more.

Projected to be the tallest tower in South Asia upon completion in 2025, “The One” residences towers in Colombo, Sri Lanka will comprise 92 floors (reaching 376 m in height), and offer residential, business and leisure facilities. DNAKE signed a cooperation agreement with “The One" in September 2013 and brought ZigBee smart home system to the model houses of “The One”. The products on display are included. Smart buildings DNAKE IP video intercom products enable more efficient and convenient two-way audio and video communication for entry control. Smart control The switch panels for “The One” project cover light panel (1-gang/2-gang/3-gang), dimmer panel (1-gang/2-gang), scenario panel (4-gang) and curtain panel (2-gang), etc. Smart security Smart door locks, infrared curtain sensors, smoke detectors, and human sensors guard the user all the time. Smart appliance With an infrared transponder installed, the user can realise control of infrared appliances, such as an air conditioner or TV. This cooperation with Sri Lanka is also a key step to DNAKE’s international intellectualisation process. In the future, DNAKE will continue to work closely with Sri Lanka to provide long-term support for intelligent services and serve Sri Lanka and neighbouring countries efficiently. By using its own technology and resource advantages, DNAKE hopes to bring more high-tech products, such as smart communities and AI, to more countries and regions, maximise service capabilities, and promote the popularisation of "smart communities".

Finland’s Osuuskauppa PeeÄssä retail co-operative, a nationwide S-Group co-operative federation member, has deployed March Networks video surveillance systems across its footprint of 73 retail and service establishments. The co-op boasts 121,000 customer-owners in Finland’s Northern Savonia region, whose capital and largest city, Kuopio, is 384 kilometres north of Helsinki. The 73 retail and service locations include three Prisma Hypermarkets, 29 S-Market grocery stores, 15 convenience stores, 15 restaurants, six ABC gas stations, three hotels, a SOKOS department store, and a Kodin Terra hardware store. March Networks video surveillance systems The rollout began in September 2019 and currently includes 85 March Networks recorders, a mix of 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs and 9000 Series IP Recorders, and more than 1,500 March Networks cameras. A new hotel and supermarket currently under construction will bring the camera count close to 2,000. “We used to have several different video surveillance systems and 10 different camera models from six manufacturers,” said Kimmo Keränen, IT Manager for PeeÄssä retail co-operative. “Maintenance was almost impossible and the picture quality in some cases was very poor.” Time management challenge Central management was a key feature for PeeÄssä retail while looking for in its new surveillance system “On top of that, there was no synchronised timekeeping, so one system could be five minutes off and another one could be an hour off. That was a real problem because correct timekeeping is everything when you’re looking for evidence.” For this reason, central management was a key feature PeeÄssä retail co-operative was looking for in its new surveillance system. “A majority of the 19 S-Group regional co-ops were already using March Networks systems, so the decision was easy to make,” said Jan Österlund, ICT Manager with SafeIT, a systems integrator and March Networks Certified Solution Provider serving the S-Group and PeeÄssä accounts. Central monitoring and management With more than 1,000 NVRs and tens of thousands of cameras across the larger S-Group co-ops, central management is a huge timesaver. Österlund can push out firmware upgrades and device settings with a few simple mouse clicks using March Networks Command Enterprise Software. The advanced system management software is ideal for managing large distributed video surveillance architecture. Its health monitoring and mass management capabilities make it easy to look after thousands of recorders and cameras from one central location. “We can schedule upgrades by location type and opening hours to minimise any interference with recording during business hours,” explained Osterlund. Recorders and cameras in use The 8000 and 9000 Series recorders are 32-channel or 64-channel devices with either 20 TB or 40 TB of onboard storage, sufficient to capture 30 days of archived video. The majority of the 1,500 cameras are March Networks SE2 Indoor and Outdoor IR Domes, but SE2 IR MicroBullets, SE2 Pendant PTZ Domes, and legacy analogue cameras are also used for specific applications. Searchlight software integration  Searchlight helps organisations gather business intelligence, which can help retailers with customer service S-Group is transitioning to a new point-of-sale system and has plans to integrate it with March Networks’ Searchlight for Retail software, which will allow the co-ops, including PeeÄssä, to identify suspicious transactions and instantly link to the associated video. Searchlight also helps organisations gather business intelligence, which can help retailers with operations, marketing, and customer service. “We are looking forward to acquiring the Brickstream 3D Gen2 sensors for queue management and people counting, and March Networks ME6 IR Domes for AI-powered analytics,” said Keränen. GDPR Compliance The March Networks system in place at PeeÄssä complies with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which came into effect in 2018 and aims to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens. System features like privacy masks, which allow users to block out specific parts of a camera’s field of view, are important for meeting the regulation. “GDPR compliance is one of the reasons why we recommended March Networks,” said Österlund. Video access, training, and monitoring Video is currently monitored by guards in three control rooms, but managers also have access to live and recorded video from their locations. Altogether, approximately 100 PeeÄssä staff have access to the video. “Training everyone to use the system was very easy,” remarked Österlund. “The March Networks system is very user-friendly, so we supplied step-by-step instructions on how to log in, pick a camera, play the video, and export it.” Crime management Video is regularly used to supply evidence for shoplifting and internal fraud investigations Video is regularly used to supply evidence for shoplifting and internal fraud investigations, but the much-improved video quality from the March Networks system was also welcomed by local law enforcement. The Eastern Finland Police Department has mapped the location of PeeÄssä’s publicly facing cameras in the National Police Board’s database of surveillance cameras to help access video for criminal investigation purposes. “Almost every week, we are asked for video from the police department,” said Keränen. Installation, time, and cost savings SafeIT’s experience with the March Networks deployments at other S-Group co-ops helped to streamline the installation at PeeÄssä. “We supplied local integrators with clear guidance on how to set up the cameras and NVRs,” said Österlund. Standardising on March Networks allows the PeeÄssä co-op to save time and reduce costs for system maintenance. The state-of-the-art video surveillance system is also much easier to use. “We are very satisfied with March Networks,” said Keränen. “It was a big project, but well worth doing.”

As physical security technologies become more complex, it is incumbent on the dealer/integrator to have the skills and expertise needed to ensure that a system operates smoothly. The value of integrators increasingly rests on the skill sets they bring to bear when installing a system. If the skills are missing, there is a problem. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What missing skills among security integrators can cause problems for customers? 

The role of the integrator/installer in the physical security marketplace is shifting as technologies evolve and applications expand. Integrators are being faced with a need to augment their expertise both in a wider range of systems and deeper into the specifics of each increasingly complex technology. At the end of the day, it falls to the integrator/installer to ensure a system performs as promised, however much a consultant or even a manufacturer might be involved in the process. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the role of the security installer/integrator changing?

The new year comes with new opportunities for the security industry, but what technologies will dominate our discussions in 2020? Topics such as artificial intelligence (AI) and HCI (hyperconverged infrastructure) became familiar in conversations during 2019, and they are likely to dominate our thoughts again in the new year. But other buzzwords are also gaining steam, such as “blockchain” and “frictionless access control.” Connectivity and the cloud will also be timely technology topics as the industry evolves. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What technology buzz will dominate the security industry in 2020?