The combined technologies automatically identify potential threats in a 360-degree field-of-view (FOV) and allow security personnel to track objects of interest using IPIX’s digital pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ). “ObjectVideo’s expertise in threat detection, in combination with IPIX’s patented, immersive surveillance technology, provides security directors a more robust solution for monitoring at-risk environments with fewer cameras and less personnel,” said IPIX President and CEO Clara Conti. “Automated, intelligent threat detection of a continuous, 360-degree field-of-view ensures potential threats are never missed.” ObjectVideo’s intelligent video analysis algorithms run all objects in a camera’s view against pre-programmed rules. When an object violates a rule (ex., a small boat loiters next to a ship, a bag is left unattended in an airport terminal or a shopper displays characteristics of shoplifting) the software alerts security personnel by phone, pager, e-mail or an alert console. “IPIX’s fisheye lens technology enables customers to view a truly accurate picture of their perimeter with correct proportions and a detailed view in any direction,” said Bruce Thompson, VP of Corporate Development for ObjectVideo. “Together, our technologies offer the most advanced panoramic threat detection solutions.” Unlike traditional digital video surveillance, in which the direction the camera is positioned or the person controlling the camera decides what data is important to capture within a limited frame of view, IPIX’s immersive technology offers the viewer a continuous 360-degree FOV. The live or recorded immersive view not only enables multiple users to simultaneously view visual data from an unlimited number of reference points within a monitored environment, but provides individual user control for navigating within the scene using the digital PTZ capabilities. ObjectVideo’s intelligent video surveillance software is currently in use by the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection Bureau, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Energy, the Port of Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Miami International Airport and a variety of private sector businesses.
Axis Communications Hooks Up With Hid
The Internet protocol (IP)-based platform enables application developers, system integrators, and OEMs to expand their system offerings by integrating network video and access control to address growing market requirements for converged security solutions. The platform will be developed and delivered as an open application programming interface (API). Dominic Bruning, managing director of Axis Communications (UK) commented: “Axis has always promoted an open standards approach for the integration of our products. Our relationship with HID emphasises our desire to develop network-based products that help to resolve security and IT convergence issues to stimulate the market shift from analogue to digital video”. As the IT, security and access control markets converge, this new platform will link previously disparate systems by enabling network video and access control systems to interoperate. In addition, Axis’ Application Development Partners (ADPs) will have the ability to integrate access control into their current video applications, while HID’s solution partners will be able to integrate video into their access control systems. Denis Hébert, president of HID summed up the agreement: “In response to the convergence of physical access control and IT, HID’s product development strategy will continue to focus on customers’ requirements for interoperability. HID clearly recognises the role of IP-based devices for security and is partnering with Axis to ensure future product platforms will meet the open interconnectivity needs of the market”. Using the open standard from Axis and HID, application developers and OEMs will be able to build systems utilising peer-to-peer communication, without having to communicate through a host server. For example, an event detected by the access control system will automatically trigger the network camera to record video. Other benefits include truly integrated video solutions where network cameras are directly linked via existing TCP/IP ports to access management systems for video verification using supervisory software or a central monitoring station. This new operating environment will offer a simpler and less expensive approach than traditionally linking analogue video and digital video recorders. Axis and HID expect to announce availability of their jointly developed application programming interface (API) in the second half of this year.
Too Easy, Says Bosch
With Easy Series, installation and set up of the panel is simple with no need to read manuals. The small panel has colour-coded terminal strips with easy identification of each connection using easily understandable symbols. Installers can define up to eight points, and connect up to four external signalling devices and up to four control centres. It includes an internal power supply unit and a tamper switch. Fire detectors can also be added, allowing a complete home or small business security platform to be quickly built up. Configuration and system self-test are all voice-prompted for fast installation and can be controlled remotely via a telephone which can also be used for remote maintenance. Remote operation is simple and pre-configuration and programming uses an optional plug-in programming key. Plug-in voice modules are already available in more than 20 languages. In order to alter the system language, only the voice module has to be changed. To activate this panel on or off can be by means of an RFID (proximity) token. To turn the system on, the token is presented to the control centre at approximately 5 cm distance. Alternatively, the panel can be armed by entering a pass-code or pressing a single button. Immediately, a voice prompt will tell the current status and, at the same time, the display will be illuminated. By means of the token and voice-prompting, anyone including children can easily and reliably turn the system on and off. Unlike conventional keypads, the control centre uses only symbols and colour with no text. Featuring a high-contrast LCD display, the user can see at a glance whether the panel has been turned on in either the occupied or unoccupied mode. The control centre also includes a presence detector that activates the status display if someone approaches closer than 30 cm. In addition, a microphone for area monitoring is integrated and five keys under the slide cover allow a pass-code to be entered for a medical or panic alarm. After an alarm transmission to a monitoring centre, Easy Series can also send an individual text or voice message to a cell phone of the owner or the neighbours.
Bosch Dibos Gets Objectvideo Intelligent Video Analysis
Bosch’s DiBos, an MPEG-4, PC-based recording system that offers state-of-the-art digital recording and communications technology, will interface with ObjectVideo software, which uses artificial intelligence called “computer vision” to detect, classify, and track potential threats in real time. ObjectVideo’s intelligent video analysis algorithms run all objects in a camera’s view against pre-programmed rules. When an object violates a rule, for example, a person crosses a virtual tripwire, a small boat loiters next to a ship, or a bag is left unattended in an airport terminal, the software alerts security personnel by phone, pager, email or an alert console. Through the interface, this alert will now trigger recording on Bosch’s DiBos system. “Bosch selected ObjectVideo’s technology because the company is one of the leading providers of intelligent video surveillance – from live viewing to forensic applications,” said Dr. Christof Ridder, Director of CCTV Systems Product Management for Bosch. “Bosch and ObjectVideo have extensively tested the DiBos/ObjectVideo VEW software combination. Interfacing these products delivers the best of both worlds for all of our customers.” The DiBos system will communicate directly with ObjectVideo VEW systems in a network environment, so customers can: Quickly find pre-alarm/event recordings by searching for events in the DVR system, instantly access stored and live video from the VEW system and stream live video to the console from the camera where an alert has taken place. “ObjectVideo is delighted to be chosen by a security leader like Bosch with an extensive global distribution network. Bosch’s sales and marketing efforts will enable the benefits of our combined technologies to reach customers worldwide,” said Bruce Thompson, Vice President of Corporate Development for ObjectVideo. Customers of ObjectVideo’s technology include the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection Bureau, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Energy, the Port of Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Miami International Airport and a variety of private sector businesses. Bosch’s DiBos, an MPEG-4, PC-based recording system that offers state-of-the-art digital recording and communications technology, will interface with ObjectVideo software, which uses artificial intelligence called “computer vision” to detect, classify, and track potential threats in real time. ObjectVideo’s intelligent video analysis algorithms run all objects in a camera’s view against pre-programmed rules. When an object violates a rule, for example, a person crosses a virtual tripwire, a small boat loiters next to a ship, or a bag is left unattended in an airport terminal, the software alerts security personnel by phone, pager, email or an alert console. Through the interface, this alert will now trigger recording on Bosch’s DiBos system. “Bosch selected ObjectVideo’s technology because the company is one of the leading providers of intelligent video surveillance – from live viewing to forensic applications,” said Dr. Christof Ridder, Director of CCTV Systems Product Management for Bosch. “Bosch and ObjectVideo have extensively tested the DiBos/ObjectVideo VEW software combination. Interfacing these products delivers the best of both worlds for all of our customers.” The DiBos system will communicate directly with ObjectVideo VEW systems in a network environment, so customers can: Quickly find pre-alarm/event recordings by searching for events in the DVR system, instantly access stored and live video from the VEW system and stream live video to the console from the camera where an alert has taken place. “ObjectVideo is delighted to be chosen by a security leader like Bosch with an extensive global distribution network. Bosch’s sales and marketing efforts will enable the benefits of our combined technologies to reach customers worldwide,” said Bruce Thompson, Vice President of Corporate Development for ObjectVideo. Customers of ObjectVideo’s technology include the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection Bureau, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Air Force, the Department of Energy, the Port of Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Miami International Airport and a variety of private sector businesses.
Dedicated Micros Has Designs On Domes
DM acquired Dennard in 2003 and since that time the skills, expertise and business systems of the two organisations – both market leaders in their own right – have been brought ever closer together. Commented Chris Boyce, Dedicated Micros Commercial Director: “The re-branding ties-in with our long term strategy to promote Dedicated Micros as a single source ‘one-stop-shop’ supplier for DVRs, servers, domes, control equipment, matrices and associated accessories. Ultimately, we believe that the procurement of DM products should be as simple as possible for customers wherever they may be in the supply chain. Of course single source procurement also offers efficiency benefits, whether it be cross-product plug and play installation or in the event of a problem on site only one support call to make.” “We are extremely confident about the future for the re-branded product portfolio; whilst the Dennard name may be disappearing its long and enviable track record over more than 40 years provides a strong foundation to extend the DM product offering into new untapped markets. Dome cameras in particular are a very visible way of highlighting a DM connection to end users in stark contrast to our DVRs which tend to be hidden away from view. There are also tremendous opportunities for growth in sales of dome cameras by cross selling in areas where we already have a strong presence with other DM products.”
Ge Wins Product Innovation Award
All the readers in this series are compatible with any access control system that uses Wiegand-based data communications up to 64 bits in addition to 125 KHz proximity, MIFARE (ISO 14443A) and Vicinity (ISO 15693) standards, providing users with a cost effective way for organizations to support their current user bases as well as address future security requirements. The Product Innovation Award recognizes that GE Infrastructure, Security’s parent company is a 125-year-old-brand and market leader that has always had the investment potential for an expansive research and development base. GE Infrastructure, Security itself has displayed consistent leadership in technology innovation, with a commitment towards open architecture and non-propriety technology. The 125 KHz proximity and Wiegand standards currently constitute the majority of the card-based access control market worldwide. The reluctance among these card issuers to move towards the more advanced MIFARE technology is primarily due to the extensive investments in the legacy technology. GE’s ‘Transition Readers’ is a pioneering effort in addressing this large segment of the market and the company is the first to introduce this unique solution. “GE’s Transition Series of readers has been especially designed for organizations attempting to enhance physical access control architecture by migrating to MIFARE or Vicinity smart card technology, but also persisting with their existing legacy systems at the same time,” notes Karthik Nagarajan, security and access control Analyst with Frost & Sullivan. The most crucial innovation of the reader is its ability to read existing vicinity cards as well as the new MIFARE cards. Compliance with multiple standards also enhances its scope in emerging markets that is facilitated by the recent homeland security and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) legislations that necessitate standards-based physical access control measures at a multitude of venues. “The product is also in line with GE’s initiative to develop non-proprietary security platforms. This is supported by their role in The Smart Card Alliance, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the widespread adoption, usage, and application of smart card technology,” added Nagarajan. In addition to this, the Transition Series reader also provides ‘intelligent supervision’ that monitors the communication between the access control panel and the reader at the door. This enables the reader to monitor the status of the line and notify security staff in the event of tamper or short circuit. Of the many value additions of this product, the primary one is its rugged design brought about by the use of weatherproof, UV resistant materials in the manufacture of the readers. This provides them the durability and also the protection against inclement weather and long-term exposure to sunlight. In addition to this, the company also offers lifetime warranty to each of the reader units as a value addition to the customers. “The uniqueness of the technology and the differentiation that it provides, the reader will position the ‘Transition series’ at an exclusive spot in the access control market. Compliance with multiple standards and a production capacity that is among the best in the world should ensure its long-term success,” concludes Nagarajan.
Crow Getting Into Fire Control
“Basically, we are a full line manufacturer of security products and what we’ve decided to do is go less on the video and make the move into fire,” said Therry Brunache, sales manager at Crow Electronics. “We felt that that market was necessary for us to dabble in.” Brunache said the decision to begin offering these products stemmed from customer demand. “Our European and Latin America customer base asked us for fire and we decided to streamline the launch with North America at the same time,” he said. Brunache also told SSN that a decision to distance itself from Israeli-based Video Domain, Crow’s video surveillance partner, was a move that allows both counterparts to focus on core competencies. “Our video partner decided to go its separate way,” he said. “It allows them to concentrate more on video since when we were together it limited them to video since we focus more on the burglar side of things.” Although the company has added the new product line, Brunache said he was unsure how large a part in the business the fire product line would become. “For now, we are going to produce it and see where it takes us,” Brunache said.
Baxall Opens Australian Office
Rick Stokes, Paul Thompson and Fred Erdbrink will head up the new business which is looking to stake a major claim in the growing local digital CCTV market. “Baxall is a serious competitor,” says Paul Thompson. “Established in 1976, this company has become the leading British manufacturer of high quality CCTV equipment and video network solutions – we’re extremely happy to be able to bring these products to the Australian market.” Baxall is well established both in the UK (where it has approximately 230 staff working out of its UK manufacturing premises) and overseas. The latter has been achieved through a network of distributors – from China to Iceland. In addition to its distributor network, Baxall also has offices overseas in the USA and now, Australia. The establishment of Baxall’s Australian business sees Baxall products available directly to the industry here for the first time. Baxall is committed to the ‘straight to market’ strategy for it’s own brand in the Australian market, believing that this strategy is superior to appointing a local distributor as it helps keeps product costs down and makes the flow of product information and support faster as the installer and end user are dealing directly with the company that manufactures the product. Although the Australian branch is new and many here have not heard of Baxall before, locals will probably be familiar with many of their products without even knowing it, as Baxall is a major OEM and has supplied the Australian market with quality cameras for many years. These cameras come with a wide range of features and configurable options. Baxall is not only well known for its high performance cameras, but has built an excellent reputation for its CCTV telemetry and control equipment, such as Baxnet and Pyramid. Baxnet is the RS485 bus network that enables a multitude of Baxall products to be interconnected including multiplexers, matrices and transmission products, allowing for system expansion. Pyramid is a matrix switching system for medium to large sized applications such as football stadia and town centres. New innovations range from the Digital Pixel System™ Hyper-D camera and new vivid™ digital video recorder to the award winning Destiny™-IP range of encoders and decoders, IP cameras and software; The Destiny™ range carries real time digital CCTV images, together with sound and data, over a single network that can be shared with IT and telephony. “All of these products are now be available from the Australian Baxall office, which shares the same commitment to standards – from the design and development right through to unrivalled after-sales service – that the company has always strived for,” Thompson explains. Around the world, Baxall has gained an enviable reputation within the security industry for reliability and value for money and now offers Australia the most innovative range of CCTV products available today. You can see Baxall’s full range at the Security Australia 2005 (formerly Security Electronics) at Darling Harbour, April 27-29.
Cisco Joins Nice In Banking Development
The NICE-Cisco collaboration will accelerate the growing trend of rolling out advanced applications for retail banking, based on a converged voice and video IP infrastructure. This provides major potential for synergies between physical security and in-branch marketing, and offers the central office a real-time 360-degree view of every branch’s operations and customers. This collaboration supports a trend is observed in Datamonitor’s report, ‘Network synergies in branch renewal’. Daniel Lessner, Financial Services Technology Analyst at Datamonitor, comments “A more united approach to branch renewal could graduate functions such as video surveillance from their traditional position as pure cost centers to adding value back into the business. For example, CCTV footage of branches could be used to analyze branch utilization or customer service levels in real time.” The NICE contribution is based on the company’s solutions for extracting insights from interactions through advanced content analytics that improve business and operational performance as well as enhancing security. The offering extends across three major areas of retail banking – security, marketing and operations – and across every touch point, including the teller’s counter and the ATM. The NICE offering is driven by the company’s solution portfolio of voice and video content analytics, which provides insights into customer interactions across three major areas: Security: video-based insights include access and intrusion detection and abandoned baggage detection. Operations: voice and video-based insights such as queue control and reduction and customer movement. Marketing: voice and text-based insights into branch optimization, advertising, promotion and promotional effectiveness, cross-selling/up-selling, screen/billboard positioning, and competitor information. Jordi Ferrer, Retail Banking Business Development Manager, Cisco Systems Europe, Middle East and Africa explains the bigger picture. “Retail banks are placing new emphasis on delivering adequate products and services through the most appropriate channels whilst cementing customer relationships. A single view of customer interactions and behaviors is a key factor in achieving a multichannel vision”. “Together Cisco Systems and NICE deliver the insight needed to gain maximum profit from the retail banking branches of the future, while delivering truly cohesive, consistent multi-channel customer service and security to their customers,” comments Koby Huberman, Corporate Vice President, Business Development and Strategic Alliances at NICE. “Bringing voice and video onto a common IP network offers major potential in everything from physical security to in-branch-marketing, and enables retail banks to extract the maximum value from of their investments.”
PelcoS Dave Macdonald Meets Terminator
“Pelco CEO David McDonald was part of a meeting with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger concerning business in the state’s Central Valley that includes Pelco’s Clovis, Calif., headquarters,” said SSI. According to SSI, The Fresno Bee said McDonald joined Fresno’s Mayor for the meeting with Schwarzenegger.
