This is the result of market demand to extend the application scope of the camera range in terms of distance/space. The new models allow a choice of an additional three auto-iris VariFocal lens types that provide options for really wide angles of between 52 to 102 degrees. This allows full coverage of confined areas such as elevators, bank vaults or prison cells. Also available is a telephoto lens with an exceptionally narrow angle of 24 degrees, ideal for really close-up views in a bank or retail environment. The third addition, with a speed of F1.2, is designed for sensitive low-light applications. NightSense, the innovative and popular feature in Bosch’s highly successful range of Dinion cameras, is now available in all color cameras in the FlexiDomeXT range. NightSense increases the camera’s sensitivity by a factor of three through spatial integration of the sensor signal to ensure maximum image quality at very low light levels. When the light fades, such as during dusk, NightSense takes over and automatically switches the camera from color to the high-sensitivity monochrome mode, thus allowing around-the-clock surveillance. FlexiDomeXT cameras are designed for surface mounting, with an optional accessory for mounting on hard walls or ceilings. Mounting possibilities are now extended with additional options. The Pendant Wall Mount allows the FlexiDome to be mounted on a vertical surface. It utilizes a curved conduit assembly with the dome camera at its lower end positioned about 20 cm from the wall to enable an unobstructed view along its length. The Pendant Pipe Mount is used for mounting the camera at some distance below the ceiling (even with false ceilings) to allow for an unobstructed view where obstacles may otherwise be in the way. The mount comprises flange assemblies fixed to the ceiling proper and to the camera. The required distance from the ceiling is achieved by the installer adding the appropriate length of pipe. The FlexiDomeXT range of vandal-resistant, fixed-dome cameras comprises five models, one of which is monochrome and all others color, with variations for PAL or NTSC. Other innovative features include: • Line-lock with phase adjustment (AC- & DC-compatible) • Backlight compensation avoids underexposure • Proprietary pan/tilt/rotation mechanism for easy field of view selection • Compact, modern design and surface mounting • Water- and dust-resistant, for both indoor and outdoor use • Optional conduit-compatible hard-surface mounting.
Pacom Systems Partnering With Dedicated Micros
Under this new partnership, Pacom’s latest release of its Graphical Management System (GMS) will interface with many of Dedicated Micros’ range of digital video recorders including the Eco4, BX2, D4, Digital Sprite (DS) and DV-IP. The GMS-Dedicated Micros integration will enable users to deliver enhanced levels of security by centralizing video management, access control and alarm monitoring through a single user interface. The integration facilitates automatic video retrieval when an operator actions an alarm or access control event. This enables simple and cost-effective video verification and can significantly reduce the incidence of false alarms. From a graphical site map, operators can also conveniently click on a camera icon and live video will be streamed directly to the GMS application. Pacom’s integration also takes advantage of the Digital Sprite’s powerful telemetry capabilities. Pacom’s intelligent control panels can communicate directly with the DS DVR and activate presets in response to any alarm or access control event. The local monitor output can also be switched based on any event. “There are many advantages for organizations to use a single operator interface to manage all their security requirements,” said Andrew Minnikin, President of Pacom Systems North America. “Pacom’s powerful networking and strength with multi-site applications fit nicely with DM’s range of Digital Recorders”.
Cell Phone Access Solution
In essence, UniSwitch turns a person’s cell phone into their remote control and security ID for any secured door or gate. “The wide spread adoption of cell phones means that almost everyone holds a smart device that can be used for remote security and keyless entry,” said Sergey Ost, CEO of Cellbris. “UniSwitch creates a cell phone remote control that replaces the smart ID card, the smart card reader and even the remote control, all at the same time. A single UniSwitch device can manage up to 2000 users, offering enormous savings.” UniSwitch is simple and easy to use. The device is connected to the switch for a gate, door or other device and operates by receiving calls from mobile phones which act as remote controls. The cell phone remote control works two ways. First, it acts as a keyless entry device by activating doors and gates. Secondly, UniSwitch acts in the place of a smart ID card because users can be identified by their cell phones via caller ID. This feature alone represents an enormous cost savings over other remote security systems. UniSwitch Has Two Security Options: – Basic: Any user dials and UniSwitch opens the gate/door without answering the call. – Advanced: Once authorized users are identified via caller ID, UniSwitch opens the gate/door without answering the call if user is authorized. UniSwitch enables access to be restricted to certain groups and certain times of day. For example, certain user groups can be granted access between 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays only. UniSwitch includes integrated notification capabilities that can be used to send SMS alerts when certain events take place. For example, it can be programmed to send an alert to security personnel in the event of a failed access attempt whether during business hours or after hours.
Canon Australia Into Digital Cctv
Canon Australia has just released its brand spanking new Network Video Recorder VK-64, a Network Video Recording (NVR) software package developed by Canon Information Systems Research Australia (CISRA). The release is part of what’s clearly a significant push by the $US33 billion Canon Group into the Australian video surveillance. While the electronic security industry has not heard much from Canon before, the local operation is significant. Established in 1990, Canon Information Systems Research Australia – CISRA is the Australian R&D centre for Canon Inc, one of the world’s leading provider of cameras, business machines and imaging and information technologies. Due to CISRA’s expertise in digital imaging technologies and the company’s advanced facilities, the centre has grown from a small R&D group to Canon’s largest R&D centre outside Japan. This is no small operation. With more than 300 engineering and support staff in this country CISRA has an annual turnover of more than AU$45 million. Network video solution Canon’s new Network Video Recorder VK-64 provides the ability to view and record high-quality video from multiple cameras on a single PC storage server. This video is recorded onto hard drives in the usual way, meaning archiving, search and remote back-up functions are greatly enhanced. With its new range of high-quality network cameras, network video servers, professional services and Network Video Recorder VK-64 software, Canon is looking to deliver its customisable video monitoring and recording over IP solutions. The company is targeting the surveillance of anything from chain stores, apartment complexes, factories, building sites and ATMs through to Australia’s critical national infrastructure, including power stations and airports. Network Video Recorder VK-64 can accommodate up to 64 live Canon network cameras on one storage server, and can monitor and record up to three storage servers simultaneously, yielding a total of 192 cameras. An otherwise identical version, Network Video Recorder VK-16, can monitor up to 16 cameras and one server. Canon believes that Network Video Recorder VK-64 offers a number of features that are unique in the NVR market, including a timeline interface that simplifies the interactive reviewing of events even while recording continues, a customisable interface that allows users to arrange up to 24 camera windows on screen as they wish, and exceptionally customisable recording modes, including continuous, scheduled, sensor-triggered, motion-detection triggered, and pre/post-alarm recording. “Flexible and responsive security monitoring has long been a priority for retailers, wholesalers and building and site managers, but the $50.2m allocated to critical infrastructure protection by the Federal Government in the 2004-5 budget shows that security is now more important for Australia than ever,” said Peter Matthews, Market Segment Manager, Software & Solutions, Canon Australia. “Video monitoring via IP rather than CCTV is the way of the future — and with Network Video Recorder VK-64 and our first-class network video cameras and servers, we are confident that we will lead this trend.” “At CISRA, we believe in capturing Australian innovation to develop global products, which is why we have more than 450 patents worldwide to our name,” said Phil Robertson, Director and General Manager Solutions Division, CISRA. “So when Canon Australia’s network video camera customers began asking for features not provided by any of the third-party NVR software packages, we decided to build our own. Network Video Recorder VK-64 is now a global Canon product, which is already selling strongly in the US and Japan.” Important features of Canon’s system include: * E-mail Function. Recorded video clips can be exported into a separate QuickTime video file for emailing or viewing on another computer. * Event Notification. Sent to user via email. * Layout Sequence. For programming monitor display templates to automatically switch according to a pre-set schedule. * Full-Screen Function. For single-camera monitor display. * Hide/Show Task Area. To maximise the display area by removing timeline and camera-selector portions from the screen. * Event Type. For prioritising system functions and reviewing video by event or time. * Camera Operation Control. Enabling operators to work camera pan, tilt and zoom controls. * Shade Correction. For balancing light and dark portion of the video image. * Night Mode. To activate an infrared filter on selected Canon network video cameras. * Backlight Compensation. To heighten foreground picture detail in heavily backlit situations on selected Canon network video cameras. * Multi-Size. For recording at different resolutions when using different recording methods such as motion detection or sensor trigger. VK-64 and VK-16 retail for $3850 and $1650 inc-GST respectively, comparing favourable to NVR systems that charge a per-camera fee. All sales and distribution enquiries can be directed to Canon Australia on 02 8873 8720. Fixed cameras too Along with the NVR solution, Canon is serving up a digital camera solutions. With its long range zoom, low light performance and built-in network server, the VB-C50Fi is a powerful, low-cost solution for remote monitoring. Featuring the same advanced optical technology as Canon’s VB-C50i Pan/Tilt/Zoom Network Video Camera, the VB-C50Fi fixed network camera provides a low-cost, compact remote-monitoring solution with versatile options to suit a broad range of user requirements. A genuine Canon 26x optical zoom lens and a 12x digital zoom enables the VB-C50Fi model to capture fine detail from far distances. The camera’s quarter-inch, 340,000-pixel CCD further ensures high-quality image capture combined with powerful low-light (1 Lux) capabilities. In addition, a motorised infrared (IR) cut filter can be turned off to significantly brighten the viewing area. The VB-C50Fi fixed network camera’s built-in network server provides viewing for up to 50 clients simultaneously. An easy set-up feature enables it to be connected to a LAN or the internet within minutes. With the video camera’s distinctive built-in motion detection it can monitor and send out an alert if motion is suspected in any of four designated areas. For added convenience, the VB-C50Fi camera offers ten preset zoom positions for easier monitoring. To enhance visibility in dark areas of the image due to backlight or shade, the camera is equipped with a three-step backlight control function. Also, the supplied Admin Viewer 3.6 software conducts shade correction, which increases the brightness of dark areas without affecting other parts of the image. Weighing just 480g, the camera offers simultaneous video distribution in various frame sizes, including 768 by 576, 384 by 288, and 192 by 144. The VB-C50Fi model also includes an internal storage capacity of approximately 15MB of RAM for still-image recording. Additional monitoring versatility is provided by Canon’s optional VK-64 or VK-16 Network Video Recording Software, which provides the ability to view and record high-quality, full-motion video over IP from up to 64 or 16 Canon Network Cameras respectively on a single PC storage server. And because this video is non-linear, archiving and search functions are fast and efficient. Canon’s VK-64 Network Video Recording Software also provides a wide variety of recording and playback options. The optional VB-EX50 Multi-Terminal Module provides a multiple-connector interface for secure wire connections. These include: BNC-video in for an external video camera; BNC-video out for reliable video signal transmission by users who don’t require IP-based video; and external sensor in/out for interfacing with external lighting or alarms. To further enhance the new VB-C50Fi camera, Canon will offer a software developer’s kit (SDK) later in 2005. This SDK will permit developers to expand the functionality and performance of the VB-C50Fi camera. These customised software applications may then be shared or sold independently amongst the community of users.
Lenel Releases New Video Solution
VideoDefender is the only solution that can be tailored to the requirements of each customer’s unique environment, allowing customers to select the IP camera and storage medium of their choice, and any computer as their network recorder. Customers can purchase either the Lenel VideoDefender software only or a full turnkey system. Those who purchase the software only solution can subsequently acquire the latest features and technologies simply by installing the newest release of VideoDefender software on the customer’s standard configuration computer. Lenel VideoDefender offers the best return on investment in both time and money, because the customer need not buy and install new hardware every time a new feature set is released. “Lenel is pleased to provide this cutting edge, IP camera-based digital video solution that allows customers to decide which hardware to incorporate into their security environment,” said Rudy Prokupets, Lenel’s chief technology officer and executive vice president of research and development. “Lenel VideoDefender is not just a video recording system, but an advanced, event-driven, digital video surveillance and management system, offering the benefits of true open architecture, scalability and fault tolerance,” Mr. Prokupets added. The IP architecture of the Lenel VideoDefender system permits IP cameras to be placed anywhere that there is an Ethernet network drop. VideoDefender supports industry DAS, SAN and NAS storage technologies, and can utilize any compliant local and/or network storage media that the customer has. Lenel VideoDefender supports the use of analog cameras as well, for those customers who wish to preserve and leverage their existing analog camera infrastructure investment. Each camera in the Lenel VideoDefender system can have a customizable frame rate (from 1 to 30 fps) and resolution. Other innovative features include a time-lapse recording mode and an IntelligentVideo™ Search Tool, which enables a system operator to conduct a post-event search on motion detection alarms, and confine that search within a specified portion of the camera’s field of view. The entire VideoDefender system—both hardware and software—can be configured, managed and monitored from a single administrative workstation, reducing total cost of ownership, and simplifying administration and maintenance. System operators can view video from every camera in the system, regardless of whether the camera is located in the same room or on a distant continent. From motion sensitivity to compression control, system operators have everything they need right at their fingertips. They can even adjust camera brightness, color and contrast, and can access the pan, tilt and zoom controls.
PacomS Rtu Means Keyboards Power Security Systems
The RTUSignal application enables users to configure a series of keystrokes or hot-keys on any Windows-based PC keyboard. This allows users to perform a variety of security functions from the convenience of their Windows PC. For example, pressing a combination of ‘Ctrl’, ‘Alt, and ‘A’ buttons can be configured to immediately transmit a duress alarm to a central station. Similarly, another sequence of hot-keys could unlock a door, trigger a CCTV camera to start recording and even send a text message to a cellular device. These hot-keys are transmitted via the customer’s LAN/WAN to one of Pacom’s intelligent control panels, which is programmed to respond in the appropriate way. Pacom’s advanced high level ASCII interface enables the RTUSignal application to transmit alarms via the network and be received by the appropriate control panel. Once enabled, each Pacom control panel can simultaneously support up to 16 RTUSignal applications. The RTU Signal runs as a background task and is discreetly disguised in the system tray. For added security, all alarm data is encrypted to NIST standards to prevent tampering, and password authentication is required by the application whenever configuration changes are required. “Pacom was recently recognized by Frost & Sullivan for its product innovation and ability to successfully partner with all types of third-party security companies to deliver value to its customers,” said Andrew Minnikin, President of Pacom Systems North America. “The beauty of RTUSignal is the ability to activate an event from the convenience of a local PC. In addition to offering a discreet way to transmit duress alarms, we believe another major application is the remote unlocking of a door in a commercial environment when a visitor is identified and requires entry. “The RTUSignal application is yet another example of the leading-edge technology that Pacom continues to introduce into the security marketplace.”
Optelcom Buys Nkf Electronics
The purchase of the European- market based competitor will help to expand Optelecom, a U.S. manufacturer of video and audio transmission systems. The deal expands Optelecom’s reach in the fiber optic-based communications solutions for video surveillance, traffic monitoring and business video systems. Optelcom will exhibit at this year’s Security Australia Exhibition late April at Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
Smiths Flies Into Las Vegas
Both trace portals, used to screen passengers for traces of explosives, have been installed at Terminal One. The deployments of the Sentinel IIs are part of the TSA’s Phase II pilot program to test and evaluate trace portals and their impact on airport security checkpoints. The Sentinel II is a non-invasive walk-through scanner that operates automatically, passing air gently over the body to release particles that are naturally absorbed by or cling to a person’s clothing or body. These particles are then drawn into the instrument for analysis. Detection of these particles or vapors can indicate that a person is either carrying an explosive device or has come into contact with explosives substances. “We are pleased to participate in the first deployment of two trace portals at a single airport,” said Bill Mawer, Director of Business Development, Smiths Detection. “Together with the TSA we are enhancing security screening and developing new solutions to benefit the flying public.” In addition to McCarran International Airport, the Sentinel II is currently being tested at Baltimore-Washington International Airport, JFK International Airport, and Jacksonville International Airport.
Ji Will Always Threaten Australia
The recent bombing in front of the Australian embassy in September 2004 shows the importance of looking beyond Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) to understand its extended family — the splinters and offshoots of the 55-year-old Darul Islam (DI) movement. Virtually all jihadist groups in Indonesia have DI origins, including a small group from Banten, West Java, that worked with JI on the September bombing. Recycling Militants in Indonesia: Darul Islam and the Australian Embassy Bombing, the latest background report from the International Crisis Group, examines the DI network and shows how its evolution helps explain the recruiting base, support network, and potential partners for jihadists in Indonesia. It also offers important clues as to how JI, itself a DI offshoot, will adapt to changing conditions. “If Darul Islam’s past is any guide, JI may be able to weather internal splits and survive the arrests of its top leaders, but it’s unlikely to expand very far outside of its old DI base”, says Sidney Jones, Crisis Group’s South East Asia Project Director. The way Darul Islam survived military defeat in the 1960s and the arrest of virtually its entire leadership from 1977 to 1982 indicates that JI may be able to survive the loss of its central command structure. In addition, the enhanced legitimacy that DI leaders often got from serving jail time suggests that Indonesian authorities need to pay more attention today to the impact of prison on JI members and what happens to them after their release. The history of the movement also suggests the network is able to renew itself organically at regular intervals: younger members break away from older leaders who seem out of touch and form new splinters to respond to pressing political concerns. But few breaks are final, and most of the various offshoots and factions stay in touch. The common thread that binds them is the commitment to the establishment of an Islamic state in Indonesia. “Darul Islam’s ability to adapt and survive over the past five decades suggests Indonesia is unlikely to eradicate JI, but it ought to be able to contain the terrorist threat if it can manage communal tensions, improve law enforcement capacity, and exert better control over the sale and transfer of arms, ammunition, and explosives”, says Jones.
Metal Detector In A Suitcase
Gatescan-P has zone specific detection of weapons, zone specific sensitivity adjustments and is designed for use in demanding environments. When broken down, the unit is small enough to pull along on wheels and fits in the boot of an ordinary car. The unit operates from a mains rechargeable battery and provides up to 40 hours mobile operation making it ideal for outdoor events. It is remarkably user-friendly and simple to operate with little operator training required. Gatescan-P is ideal for sporting events, concerts, nightclubs, visitor centres, conferences, schools, VIP security or for any event or location requiring high discrimination metal detection combined with ease of use and total portability or for businesses that want to employ occasional or random security checks. Gatescan-P is already in use with Police Forces and schools in London and was recently featured on a school security program on Teachers TV.
