April 18, 2026
image
Home Articles posted by a&s Adria (Page 217)

Aperio® wireless access control cuts lost key hassles at a growing student accommodation block

London, January 2019 – We lose keys. It’s just something we do, however much we try not to. One study in the UK estimated around 10,000 annually end up just in the refuse, by mistake*. At one growing student accommodation block in southern France, they sought a solution to lost keys and the other hassles of managing an outdated mechanical master-key system for a large facility with a transient population.

CROUS Montpellier fixed lost key problems by exchanging their mechanical locks for Aperio® cylinders. Aperio® wireless locking devices with built-in RFID readers are already trusted at universities all over Europe to protect staff, students and assets against burglary and unauthorised intruders.

Saving time and money
Easy-to-fit Aperio® locks have transformed facility management for the accommodation block. To date, 1,500 wireless Aperio® cylinders are seamlessly integrated online with their ARD security system, which gives facility managers an overview of block security in real time.
Now, when a student loses their key-card, it’s simple for a site manager to cancel the old credential and issue a new one. There is no need to engage a locksmith to replace physical locks, saving everyone’s time and CROUS money. A constant drain on resources has been eliminated.
Because Aperio® integration at CROUS is online, managers block lost credentials quickly using the software, without visiting the door. It is just as easy to de-authorise credentials for students who leave, even if they forget to return their smart-card. An operator simply removes them from the system database and they are locked out.

A single, expandable system
Aperio® easily integrates with payment and other smart-card systems, as well as access control. “Aperio® provides a comfortable access solution. Our students can access their accommodation, use the printer and pay in the canteen with the same card,” explains Cyril Combacal at CROUS Montpellier.
Because Aperio® is easily scalable and can expand any security system when needs change, investments in new wireless locking can be rolled out over time. It has made logistics and budgeting much easier for CROUS.

Refurbishment at CROUS Montpellier is ongoing: up to 500 new Aperio® cylinders are installed efficiently and wirelessly every year.

*: see www.businesswaste.co.uk/over-10000-door-and-car-keys-end-up-in-the-tip-every-year

Qognify completes acquisition of OnSSI group

Qognify recently signed a definitive agreement to acquire On-Net Surveillance Systems (OnSSI) and the ONSSI company – Seetec GmbH. The transaction was completed on the 28th December 2018.

In bringing these award-winning technology solution portfolios together under one roof – including Qognify Visionhub, ONSSI Ocularis and Seetec Cayuga – Qognify becomes one of the largest VMS, video analytics, PSIM and critical incident management companies in the world. Qognify is backed by global investment firm Battery Ventures.

Also located in Pearl River, New York, ONSSI was founded in 2002 with the goal of developing comprehensive and intelligent IP video management software (VMS). Today, the company has an established presence in more than 100 countries, where its Ocularis and Cayuga VMS solutions are relied upon by education, government, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, public safety, transportation and utilities organizations. With Qognify’s proven pedigree in delivering successful projects for financial services companies, mass-transit infrastructure, large international airports and seaports, as well as smart and safe city projects around the world, the acquisition sees the company establish a dominant global position in both the mid-market and enterprise sectors.

Seetec GmbH is a pioneer of IP video technology and today a leading provider of VMS software in Europe. The Germany-based company was acquired by ONSSI in 2015 and boasts 100 employees, working out of offices across mainland Europe, Dubai, Scandinavia and the UK.

Steve Shine, CEO and President of Qognify states: “ONSSI and Seetec solutions have a deservedly excellent reputation throughout the security sector. This is the perfect time to bring together our collective pool of physical security talent and technologies, to increase the range of target markets we are able to serve. The partnership also greatly increases the number of customers and partners for the combined business. This is a very exciting agreement for all of us.”

Matrix Comsec is All Set to Unveil New-Age Security and Telecom Solutions for Enterprises at IT EXPO’19

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 30th Jan to 01st Feb 2019

Matrix Comsec, a leading manufacturer and provider of Security and Telecom solutions, is participating in IT EXPO 2019 at Fort Lauderdale, Florida held on 30th Jan to 1st Feb 2019. Matrix will be showcasing its comprehensive range of People Mobility Management, IP Video Surveillance and Unified Communication solutions at the event. Matrix is known for its customer centric, innovative range of solutions for Unified Communications, IP Video Surveillance, Access Control and Time-Attendance applications catering to diverse and complex deployments especially for the SMB, SME and large enterprises.

Matrix will be launching several solutions for SMB at the event

1. Enterprise Video Collaboration solution, SPARSH VP710 that sets a new benchmark by offering enhanced video and voice capabilities.

2. SMB IP-PBX, SPARK100, an all-in-one communication solution with Enterprise grade Unified Communication and Collaboration.

3. Next Generation Door Controller COSEC ARGO for the Access Control market. The new door controller is equipped with features like 3.5” IPS Touchscreen LCD with Gorilla Glass, Powerful Processor for Ultra-fast User identification, Intuitive User Experience, Vandal Resistant (IK08).

Matrix will also be demonstrating seamless integration between Matrix IP Video Surveillance, Access Control and Unified Communications solutions along with Matrix Video Management and Device Management software suite.

Additionally, at this event, Matrix will exhibit its range of Gateways. These gateways allow easy integration with most of IP-PBX, TDM PBX, Softswitch and Hosted solutions. Award winning series of Matrix Gateways are perfect for enterprise and carrier-class solutions for multi-site connectivity and remote survivability while offering superior voice quality and state of the art routing features.

Talk to our solution experts to know more about these unique solutions by visiting Matrix at IT EXPO Fort Lauderdale, Florida from 30th Jan to 1st Feb 2019.

About Matrix

Established in 1991, Matrix is a leader in Security and Telecom solutions for modern businesses and enterprises. As an innovative, technology driven and customer focused organization, the company is committed to keep pace with the revolutions in the Security and Telecom industries. With around 40% of its human resources dedicated to the development of new products, Matrix has launched cutting-edge products like Video Surveillance Systems – Video Management System, Network Video Recorder and IP Camera, Access Control and Time-Attendance Systems as well as Telecom Solutions such as Unified Communications, IP-PBX, Universal Gateways, VoIP and GSM Gateways and Communication Endpoints. These solutions are feature-rich, reliable and conform to the international standards. Having global footprints in Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Africa through an extensive network of more than 2,500 channel partners, Matrix ensures that the products serve the needs of its customers faster and longer. Matrix has gained trust and admiration customers representing the entire spectrum of industries. Matrix has won many international awards for its innovative products.

www.MatrixComSec.com

Contact:

Phone: (714) 453-9756

Mobile: (714) 788-1539

shaun.trivedi@matrixcomsec-us.com

Contact:

abhay.Joshi@matrixcomsec.com

Intersec 2019 opens in Dubai, featuring 1,212 exhibitors from 54 countries

Intersec 2019, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, opened in Dubai today (20 January), featuring 1,212 exhibitors from 54 countries.

Source: Intersec

The annual three-day event, which runs until 22nd January at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, is organised by Messe Frankfurt Middle East, and supported by the Dubai Police, Dubai Police Academy, Dubai Civil Defence, the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), and the Dubai Municipality.
They’re joined by a further 35 international government partners, trade associations, and non-profit institutions aimed at advancing the global security, safety, and fire protection landscape.

Highlights this year include the new Intersec Future Security Summit, featuring 40-plus regional and international experts and government speakers, while returning features include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area for live firefighting and emergency rescue operations, along with workshops and seminars to keep an expected audience of 30,000-plus visitors informed about the latest market trends and technologies.

World Premier of TIGON specialty firefighting truck at Intersec 2019

Spanning 60,000sqm Intersec 2019 covers the six show sections Fire & Rescue (431 exhibitors), Commercial Security (375 exhibitors), Safety & Health (142 exhibitors), Information Security (120 exhibitors), Homeland Security & Policing (90 exhibitors), and Physical and Perimeter Security (54 exhibitors).

The dedicated showpiece event is often used as the annual platform for hundreds of exhibitors to launch their latest products and solutions for the global security, safety, and fire protection industries.
Rosenbauer from Austria, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of systems for firefighting and disaster protection, was among these this week, and unveiled TIGON, dubbed as a ‘radically designed, extraordinarily all-terrain specialty firefighting vehicle for industrial use.’
“The special vehicle combines proven off-road expertise from Tatra and optimally designed drive components with outstanding extinguishing technology from Rosenbauer,” said Christian Mairzedt, Senior Vice President and Head of the Middle East and North Africa at Rosenbauer.
“The Rosenbauer TIGON is one of the most all-terrain, variable, and long-lasting industrial vehicles worldwide. Its powerful performance makes it one of the most extraordinary fire fighting vehicles of our time.”

 

World’s top fifty security solutions providers in the spotlight

Nearly two-thirds of the world’s top 50 security manufacturers are also on-board Intersec 2019, including 17 of the top 20 incumbents comprising Hikvision, Dahua, ASSA ABLOY, Bosch Security Systems, Axis Communications, FLIR Systems, Hanwha Techwin, Tiandy Technologies, Avigilon, Infinova, Optex, VIVOTEK, CP Plus, Nedap, Raysharp, Milestone Systems, and Kedacom.

All are showcasing their latest solutions, from Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based safe city services and smart home security products, to the latest high definition IP-Network cameras and analytics software used across industry verticals from banking and retail to hospitality and oil & gas.

Avigilon is showcasing its newly released Avigilon Control Center (ACC) 6.14 software, with enhanced capabilities for Avigilon Appearance Search technology across ACC sites, increased security and enhanced performance. The Canadian-headquartered company is also shining the spotlight on its Avigilon Appearance Search technology, a deep learning AI search engine that sorts through hours of footage with ease.

Paul Such, Vice President of Sales for Avigilon in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, said Avigilon’s Appearance Search technology allows users to quickly locate a specific person or vehicle of interest across multiple sites that are connected to the same ACC client.  “We’ll also feature Avigilon Unusual Motion Detection (UMD) technology, an advanced AI technology that will bring a new level of automation to surveillance,” said Such. “UMD technology is designed to continuously learn what typical activity in the scene looks like and focus the operator’s attention on atypical events needing further investigation.”

“Such said a critical mass has been reached in the volume of video data captured and the limits of human attention to effectively search through that data, adding: “As such, the demand for video analytics is increasing globally. Through the power of AI, Avigilon is developing technologies and products that dramatically increase the effectiveness of security systems by focusing human attention on what matters most.”

Artificial Intelligence and IoT in focus at Future Security Summit

The 21st edition of Intersec in 2019 also coincided with the launch of the three-day Intersec Future Security Summit, where Future Foresight on Security, Artificial Intelligence, along with the Internet of Things (IoT) and Intelligent Systems were among the central themes on the first day.
Martin Gren, Co-Founder of Axis Communications, and the inventor of the world’s first IP-Network camera, was among the headline speakers today, offering his view on the future of the global security industry.

“We see security needs increasing and new applications are enabled by new and complementing technologies,” said Gren, adding that while AI has shown tremendous improvements over the last few years, it’s still at an early stage.

“Everyone expects to see industry disruption from AI and Deep Learning, and this is an area that Axis are heavily investing in, but I think the true benefits are still several years away. Instead you will see AI help with regular basic algorithms, and personally, I think the market for audio is going to move from analog to IP as it’s still currently 98 percent analog.”

Gren said the Middle East and the UAE in particular have always been an innovator in security and security technologies, on account of the region having limited exposure to traditional analog technologies. “The Middle East was an early adopter of technology, and I think the UAE has shown a scale and willingness to invest that is much stronger than most other countries,” continued Gren. “This has given a modern, and upgraded, network of smart and intelligent systems that is quite unique.”

Middle East market on track for double-digit growth

Intersec 2019 takes place amid a Middle East market where demand for security, safety, and fire protection continues to climb. Andreas Rex, Intersec’s show director, said: “The Middle East market for physical and perimeter security, commercial and information security, fire protection, and drones, is currently estimated to be worth US$14.5 billion. Analysts say this will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.5 percent over the next six years, valuing US$31 billion in 2024.

“Governments are taking a lead role in ensuring infrastructure, buildings, borders and societies are safe and secure, and the region continues to be an early adopter of smarter, integrated, and innovative solutions spanning both the public and private sectors – from banking, aviation, education and retail, to hospitality, healthcare, construction and energy.

“These solutions are course on show this week at Intersec, where more than 1,200 exhibitors from 54 countries are gracing the exhibition floor,” added Rex.

With 83 percent international participation, Intersec 2019’s 15 country pavilions are coming from Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, UK, and the USA.

Other conference highlights include the one-day Intersec Fire Conference on 21st January, which will provide insights into the changing global trends in fire protection and its implications on the Middle East, while Dubai’s Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) Forum on 22nd January will also return with the latest updates in security law and industry regulations in Dubai.

Returning popular features include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area, and the Safety Design in Buildings Pavilion. Intersec is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

More information is available at: www.intersecexpo.com.

HID Global Introduces Long-Range Solutions for Combined Door Access and “Hands-free” Parking and Gate Control

News Highlights:

  • New long-range access control portfolio enables users to open doors and parking gates without opening the window or stopping the vehicle.
  • Long-range iCLASS SE readers and credentials make it possible for organisations to combine parking, gate and door access control on a single card for a secure and convenient solution.
  • Solutions include powerful end-to-end communications security and advanced identity data encryption.

HID Global®, a worldwide leader in secure identity solutions, has expanded its iCLASS SE® platform with long-range ultra-high-frequency (UHF) solutions that provide new options for opening doors and parking gates from a distance. The addition of long-range iCLASS SE readers and credentials enable organisations to combine parking gate and door access control on a single card. The convenient solution makes it possible to read credentials from inside a vehicle at distances of up to 16.4 feet (5 metres) from the reader.

“HID Global now offers an easier way for our customers to add parking and gate control to their security infrastructure, with new long-range access options that enhance user convenience while improving the flow of people and vehicles to and from facilities,” said John Fenske, vice president of product marketing – Physical Access Control with HID Global. “Our new portfolio of readers and credentials significantly expands the capabilities of an organisation’s access control systems across UHF and smart card technologies. The new solution has already delivered proven security and convenience benefits in early deployments at installations spanning hundreds of readers and more than a million credentials.”

HID Global’s long-range solutions portfolio includes a new rugged and weather-resistant reader that has been optimised for outdoor use. The iCLASS SE U90 Long Range reader can be used from distances of up to 16.4 feet (5 metres) and features advanced encryption along with end-to-end communications technology for the industry’s highest level of UHF access control security. Also available is a dual-technology iCLASS SE and UHF credential for use with the UHF reader and other iCLASS SE platform readers, providing a single solution for seamless door, parking and gate control.

The new solution enables the following capabilities:

  • Hands-free parking access at the gate without having to roll down the window: The iCLASS SE U90 reader allows users to activate gate control from inside the car.
  • “No-stop” hands-free parking access with the iCLASS SE U90 reader and UHF credentials: Offers a highly secure, long distance option for parking gate control and the additional benefit of improved vehicle flow through parking facilities.
  • Integrated parking and gate control with building access: High frequency architectures can combine door and parking control on a single credential.
  • Higher security: The readers support OSDP to extend security across all communications connections, including long distances between readers and controllers.

Smart Technology: What to know when choosing a LPWAN technology

More and more, in projects such as smart city or smart parking, users are faced with the need to install low-power devices that transmit small amounts of data over long distances. Rather than 3G/4G that is not optimized for this purpose, the low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology stands as an ideal option. Currently there are different LPWAN technologies in the market, and the user should select a technology based on their demands and needs.

Izvor: a&s International

E-mail: redakcija@asadria.com

LPWAN has gained popularity in recent years, and that trend is expected to continue. In a research note, ABI Research estimated that 4 billion IoT devices are expected to rely on LPWANs by 2025, with the potential to generate a total value of more than US$2 billion.

For low-power devices that transmit small data over long distances, LPWAN provides an option that works more effectively than other wireless technologies. “Many potential ’connected things’ are located in remote or hard-to-reach areas at long distances from the next cellular base station. When there is coverage, it is often poor and requires the device transmitter to operate at high power, draining the battery,” said Steve Dunn, CEO of LEAPIN Digital Keys. “Additionally, cellular networks are not optimized for applications that only transmit small amounts of infrequent data. Further, the existing cellular standards don’t support power saving capabilities, which makes these standards unsuitable for inexpensive devices that require battery lives of several years.”

“Wireless transmissions from IoT end nodes often must communicate across long distances or need to penetrate barriers such as concrete or soil. LPWAN technologies are a good option for these conditions, enabling data that might otherwise be inaccessible or too costly to access to be connected to the cloud,” said Tom Pannell, Senior Marketing Director for IoT Products at Silicon Labs. “Ultimately, LPWAN connections help provide more insights into what is happening in the physical world — that is, via sensor nodes in our homes, offices, factories and urban infrastructure – thus contributing to real-time cloud-based analytics.”

TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS

Currently many LPWAN technologies exist; these include NB-IoT, LoRa, Sigfox, HaLow, RPPM and Weightless. Each has unique features and characteristics that users should know before deciding which technology is most suitable for them.

NB-IoT

NB-IoT (NarrowBand IoT) is a LPWAN technology standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the same group that specified the LTE technology. As such NB-IoT operates in the same spectrum as LTE. Ecosystem partners include Huawei Technologies, Ericsson, Qualcomm Technologies, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone Group, Intel and Nokia.

“Since NB-IoT operates in licensed spectrum, it is secure and reliable providing guaranteed quality of service,” Dunn said. “NB-IoT will eventually work virtually anywhere in mobile network operators’ existing infrastructure. It connects devices more simply and efficiently on already established mobile networks, and handles small amounts of fairly infrequent two-way data, securely and reliably.”

NB-IoT has various applications from smart parking to smart hotels. “We see NB-IoT as being most applicable for use in hotels. This solution is going to create value for hotels and guests alike as being able to add digital keys to hotel guest loyalty apps. This will streamline hotel operations and help them to capture data to improve the overall guest experience,” Dunn said. “We also believe there are many new applications for smart locks in areas that don’t require on-site power or Wi-Fi such as parcel delivery lockers, storage spaces, cabinet locks and even vehicles.”

LoRaWAN and Sigfox

LoRaWAN is another popular LPWAN technology. It is specified by the LoRa Alliance whose members include prestigious IT firms including Cisco, IBM and Renesas. According to the alliance, LoRaWAN transmits data at rates from 0.3 kbps to 50 kbps.

Sigfox meanwhile is a French company that created the Sigfox LPWAN technology, whose ecosystem partners include NXP, ON Semiconductor, Wisol and InnoComm. According to the company, Sigfox operates in the 200 kHz of the publicly available band to exchange radio messages over the air, with each message being 100 Hz wide and transferred at 100 or 600 bits per second, depending on the region.

According to Pannell, LoRa and Sigfox are best suited for city surveillance applications. “This involves disparate, spread-out end nodes, which are often located in hard-to-reach environments. A good example is a vibration sensor embedded in a bridge, providing data on the bridge’s physical condition and potential for stress-induced failure,” he said.

Wi-Fi HaLow

Wi-Fi HaLow is developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. According to Randy Ryder, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Wi-Fi Alliance, the technology operates in the 900 MHz portion of the radio spectrum (as opposed to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz for traditional Wi-Fi), transmits data at a low of 150 kilobits per second to 18 megabits per second, and has transmission range of up to 1 kilometer.

The setup of a HaLow network is basically the same as setting up Wi-Fi. A sensor integrated with the HaLow technology, for example in the form of a HaLow module, is connected to a Wi-Fi access point. Data is transmitted to the access point and is then propagated to the internet. “Some of the benefits of Wi-Fi HaLow, and why there is the expectation that it will grow and gain a lot of traction within IoT, is the fact that it leverages a tremendous installed base of Wi-Fi devices,” Ryder said. “Another key benefit is that Wi-Fi HaLow ensures interoperability with this existing installed base as well as future deployments.”

According to Ryder, Wi-Fi HaLow is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, especially in challenging RF environments where walls, concrete and other obstructions are present. “Because of Wi-Fi HaLow’s ability to operate in challenging environments, a great use case for the technology is an underground parking garage. The sensors in each parking spot can be connected via Wi-Fi HaLow to the main network, and people with smartphones are then able to see which parking places are open and which are occupied,” Ryder said.

RPMA

RPMA (Random Phase Multiple Access) is another LPWAN technology developed by Ingenu, offering data in the 2.4 GHz spectrum. “Ingenu’s RPMA technology is a low-power, wide-area network technology which is ideal for low data rate applications. It is currently deployed in the following markets: smart grid, asset tracking, agriculture, smart city, transportation/logistics and other industrial applications,” said Ted Myers, CTO of Ingenu. “Ingenu is constantly refining its RPMA technology, with the caveat that it will always be backwards compatible. This means that the network that is installed today will remain operational for years, even decades.”

Weightless

Weightless meanwhile is another LPWAN technology developed by the Weightless SIG. According to the group, the technology offers data in the 169/433/470/780/868/915/923 MHz channels at rates from 200 bps to 100 kbps, with a range of 2 kilometers in an urban development.

USERS DECIDE

HaLow, RPMA and Weightless add to Sigfox, LoRaWAN and NB-IoT to form the primary LPWAN technologies at the moment. According to most of the organizations or alliances that we spoke to, there is room for these technologies to coexist in the LPWAN arena, which is unlikely to see a consolidation of technologies or a “winner-takes-all” scenario. Rather, according to them, it’s up to the user to determine what is the right technology for them, which should be based on various factors — for example how long is the range, how much data is transmitted by the devices at what intervals, or is the battery life measured in months or years.

“The answer depends on the developer’s application requirements and the environments in which the LPWAN solution will be deployed. Three key factors to consider include power consumption, payload and performance — that is, wireless transmission over distance and through barriers like concrete walls,” said Pannell.

“The primary question that users should ask themselves is what are the needs of my use case — what kind of battery life do I need, what kind of range do I need, and what type of data throughput do I need? Then, find the specific technology that fits those needs,” Ryder said.

“Users should choose the technology that best suits IoT applications. The technology should be cost-effective, able to scale, and have the longevity to support many of the IoT devices that can operate for over a decade,” Myers said. “Additionally, a network that has been designed to serve machines only typically uses a fraction of the data that other networks consume. Most IoT applications (nearly 85 percent) use less than 3 MB of data per month, so this should be considered before investing in a network that may be overkill for a typical application.”

ENDURING POPULARITY

LPWAN is a broad term that addresses various technologies enabling long-distance transmission of small data between low-power devices. At this time it remains unlikely that one dominant technology is going to emerge any time soon. What we can foresee, however, is that LPWAN is going to remain popular given the rise of IoT and its applications in smart city and other projects.

Hikvision introduces unique all-in-one video intercom access control terminal

Hikvision, the world’s leading supplier of innovative video surveillance products and solutions, has launched the DS-K1T501, a unique all-in-one video intercom terminal for access control. This provides a cost-effective solution packed into one small form.
The terminal brings together access control, video surveillance and video intercom systems functionality, offering fast and cost-effective integration and deployment. The solution was developed specifically to suit the needs of different security systems for banks and businesses with rented offices.
Video Surveillance – Unlike other access control terminals on the market, the terminal has a front-facing 1080p IP camera packed with features: 140º viewing angle, IR light supplement, mechanical IR cut filter for true day/night performance and an SD card slot for image capture. The stream can be monitored and recorded on NVR just like any Hikvision IP camera.
Access Control – Featuring an inbuilt Mifare reader and Hikvision’s fingerprint sensor, the device offers different ways to authenticate. Most importantly, since it has a built-in camera, it can be used for reading modern virtual credentials like QR codes. It can also go one stage further, completing a face detection verification in addition to the card and/or fingerprint options. This way, every time fingerprint is used, the device will require the visitor to show his or her face in front of the camera, capture a picture on the SD card and then grant access. The terminal has a maximum capacity of 3,000 fingerprints and 50,000 cards and, for ease of use, supports voice prompts
Access control security – Aside from the fingerprint reader and face detection verification, the device supports a connection to the DS-K2M060 secure door control unit via RS-485, which, when mounted inside the building, guarantees that the protected door cannot be opened by bypassing the device.
Video Intercom – If a visitor with no access steps in front of the door or an existing user forgets his or her credentials they can press the intercom button which will call the remote management center (iVMS-4200 or iVMS-5200E). The operator can answer the call with two-way audio and video communication and then decide or unlock the door for the visitor.
Connectivity – The device includes the most common communications technologies, like the classic serial RS-485 interface, 1GB Ethernet and Wi-Fi. This comes in handy for installers, as it gives various options for any communications setup. Even if the connection is unstable or lost, a buffer of 200,000 events will guarantee that valued information will be retained and transferred to the management software on re-connection.
Management – The device is a part of the Hikvision ecosystem, which means full integration with different type of security systems that the company offers. The terminal can be fully managed and monitored by iVMS-4200 or connected to the enterprise solution platform iVMS-5200E when more centralised and flexible operation is needed. Both platforms offer modern, easy to use graphical interfaces packed with advanced access control options and ‘time and attendance report’ calculations. As for those on the go, handy monitoring and management is available from the Hik-Connect app, which will send notifications whenever an alarm is triggered.
Suitable for outdoor usage, the terminal is IP 65 rated and can withstand a wide temperature range of -40°C to 60°C.
“When you look at this device and the advanced technologies it packs inside, you can get an idea of Hikvision’s true commitment to revolutionise and bring innovation to the relatively conservative market of access control”, says Cenek Maly – Channel sales product manager for access control and video intercom systems at Hikvision Europe.

Hikvision: Reducing false alarms with Deep Learning

The Deep Learning phenomenon continues to excite the IT world, with computing power now at the level where it can be properly used in practical applications. Hikvision has been at the forefront of applying the technology in the surveillance industry and beyond, and has already released its first set of products that harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The concept of Deep Learning takes inspiration from the way the human brain works. Our brains can be seen as a very complex deep learning model. Brain neural networks are comprised of billions of interconnected neurons; deep learning simulates this structure. These multi-layer networks can collect information and perform corresponding actions according to analysis of that information.

In the past two years, the technology has excelled in speech recognition, computer vision, voice translation, and much more. It has even surpassed human capabilities in the areas of facial verification and image classification; hence, it has been highly regarded in the field of video surveillance for the security industry.

Its ability to enhance the recognition of human beings – distinguishing them from animals, for example – makes the technology a great addition to the security arsenal. This is especially relevant in a world where false alarms account for 94%-99% of all alarms, according to police and fire service statistics!

How deep learning works

Deep learning is intrinsically different from other algorithms. The way it solves the insufficiencies of traditional algorithms is encompassed in the following aspects.

The algorithmic model for deep learning has a much deeper structure than the traditional algorithms. Sometimes, the number of layers can reach over a hundred, enabling it to process large amounts of data in complex classifications. Deep learning is very similar to the human learning process, and has a layer-by-layer feature-abstraction process. Each layer will have different “weighting,” and this weighting reflects on what was learnt about the images’ “components.” The higher the layer level, the more specific the components. Just like the human brain, an original signal in deep learning passes through layers of processing; next, it takes a partial understanding (shallow) to an overall abstraction (deep) where it can perceive the object.

Deep learning does not require manual intervention but relies on a computer to extract features by itself. This way, it is able to extract as many features from the target as possible, including abstract features that are difficult or impossible to describe. The more features there are, the more accurate the recognition and classification will be. Some of the most direct benefits that deep learning algorithms can bring include achieving comparable or even better-than-human pattern recognition accuracy, strong anti-interference capabilities, and the ability to classify and recognise thousands of features.

Challenges of existing systems

Conventional surveillance systems mostly detect moving targets, without further analysis. Even smart IP cameras can only map individual points on a shape one by one, making it difficult to calibrate some features (eg forehead or cheek), thus decreasing accuracy.

For perimeter security, for example, other technologies can be (and are) used to provide more comprehensive security. But they all have their downsides. Infrared emission detectors can be ‘jumped over’ but are also prone to false alarms caused by animals. Electronic fences can be a safety hazard, and are limited in certain areas. Some of these solutions can also be expensive and complicated to install.

Object such as animals, leaves, or even light can cause false alarms, so being able to identify the presence of a human shape really improves the accuracy of perimeter VCA functions. Frequent false alarms are always an issue for end-users, who need to spend time to investigate each one, potentially delaying any necessary response and generally affecting efficiency.

Imagine, for example, a scenario where it’s relatively quiet – a location at night where there are few cars and people around. Even here, there could be 50 false alarms in a night. Assuming it takes 2-3 minutes to check out a false alarm, and that just 3 out of the 50 warrant more attention – say 15 minutes each. A guard either needs to check the system and look back at the alert, or someone needs to be dispatched to the location and look around, checking if anyone has indeed ‘entered without permission’. In most organisations, these would need to be reported/recorded too, adding to the overall time spent on this ‘false alarm’. So, those 50 false alarms could cost more than two hours each night of wasted time in that scenario.

Deep Learning, however, makes a big difference. With a large amount of good quality data from the cameras and other sources, like the Hikvision Research Institute, and over a hundred data cleaning team members to label the video images, sample data with millions of categories within the industry have been accumulated. With this large amount of quality training data, human, vehicle, and object pattern recognition models become more and more accurate for video surveillance use.

Based on a series of experiments, the recognition accuracy of solutions using the Deep Learning algorithm increased accuracy by 38% – applying this to the previous example, that’s a saving of nearly one hour each night. This makes Deep Learning technology a great advantage in a perimeter security solution, with much more accurate line crossing, intrusion, entrance and exit detection.

Other uses

The value of Deep Learning technology stretches further than traditional security. For example, tracking movement patterns of individuals can see if they are ‘loitering’ and a potential threat in the future. A threshold could be set to five metres radius of movement, or ten seconds of staying in the same place. If the person passes either threshold, an alarm could be triggered. The solution tracks the individual and compares this behaviour to a database to see if it recognises a pattern.

Another application would be in a scenario where ‘falling down’ could be a threat, like an elderly care home. If a height threshold was set at 0.5m and duration time 10 seconds, for example, the solution would be able to see a person falling down (as they go below 0.5m) and might be in trouble (if they ‘stay down’ for longer than 10 seconds). The solution uses the parameters set to compare with its database and raise an alarm.

With features and benefits like these, it’s easy to see how many smart applications could be catered for by Deep Learning technology.

To sum up 10,000-strong R&D Centre is pushing the boundaries of surveillance solutions and bringing even more benefits to them. Artificial Intelligence has massive potential, and Hikvision is always exploring new ways to apply this exciting technology throughout the security industry and beyond.

ProControl+, the app that speaks for itself

Pssst… have you heard? We’ve added voice push notifications!

In our commitment to continuous improvement we are delighted to add voice push notifications to both iOS and Android versions of ProControl+.

You don’t have to do anything. This feature is available now; your users may have even already received them for events on their systems.

“We’ve listened to market demands and this is a feature that was very much sought, so we are very pleased to implement this,” Laurence Kenny, Pyronix Marketing Manager, said.

If there is an alarm, or when the system is armed or disarmed, or an event is triggered by any Pyronix life safety devices integrated into the system, such as the SMOKE-WE, CO-WE or the HUD/MED-WE, the user will receive a voice push notification that will get their attention.

“This feature adds value to ProControl+, without any additional cost or action required,” Laurence said.

“Voice push notifications deliver a unique selling point, that differentiates your business from any other on the intruder market.

“Whether it is a panic alarm, a smoke detector, a break in or as simple as children coming home from school, ProControl+ now audibly keeps the user informed, so that they can remain in complete control.”

This feature, alongside any Hikvision video product, allows users to be told what is happening, see what is happening and take appropriate action.

If your users do not receive push notifications currently and would like to now receive them with an audible voice, simply enable them in the PyronixCloud account.

Pyronix, giving intrusion a voice.

About Pyronix

Part of the world leading Hikvision Group, Pyronix is the intrusion specialist in the Hikvision Alarms division. Designing and manufacturing market-leading security equipment for residential, commercial and industrial applications, Pyronix has patented many technologies and won numerous awards over more than three decades in the electronic security industry

Joining the Hikvision Alarms division in 2016, the company is driven by innovation and quality, with a key focus on R&D, engineering excellence, cutting edge design and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities.

Delivering the global security industry with versatile, effective and reliable solutions, Pyronix stays ahead of the curve and is dedicated to providing world intrusion markets with superior security solutions, while engaging with and supporting customers.

Open Standards Drive Access Control Improvements Including Better Ways to Connect Readers and Systems

The access control industry’s move to open standards is cultivating a broad range of interoperable products with enhanced features and security. Open standards also ensure that solutions can be easily upgraded to support changes in technology and applications, and give users the confidence that investments in today’s technologies can be leveraged in the future.

By: Victor Ganea, Area Sales Manager with HID Global

One recently established standard that delivers significant user benefits is the Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) with Secure Channel Protocol (SCP). The specification provides bi-directional communications and security features for connecting card readers to control panels or other security management systems, which improves integration to support advanced applications and data encryption between components. Bi-directional communication is particularly beneficial, enabling users to change configurations and to poll and query readers from a central system, which reduces costs while speeding and simplifying configuration and improving the ability to service readers.

Unlike earlier uni-directional protocols including the Wiegand interface for RFID readers and the clock-and-data signal approach used with magnetic stripe readers, OSDP enables continuous reader status monitoring, and can immediately indicate a failed, missing or malfunctioning reader. It can also provide tamper detection and indication capabilities. All signalling is performed over two data lines plus ground, which cuts costs as compared to Wiegand by enabling the use of four conductor cables to power the reader and to send and receive data, rather than six.

In announcing the OSDP project in November 2011, SIA Standards Chairman Steve Van Till said, “We think that there is a glaring need for this type of specification. There is currently no standard protocol for interfacing readers to physical access control systems, other than the outdated Wiegand protocol, which does not support advanced operations such as those required for public key infrastructure (PKI).” According to SIA, it expects OSDP with SCP to replace the Wiegand interface in many applications that require larger data sizes, two-way communications, or encryption, such as smart card deployments, federal PKI-based systems, and identity management applications.

The addition of SCP to OSDP has brought strong authentication capabilities that enable secure and trusted communications and connections. With many years of proven use, SCP was developed by GlobalPlatform, an industry standards body that works across industries to identify, develop and publish specifications that facilitate the secure and interoperable deployment and management of multiple embedded applications on secure chip technology. To establish a session using SCP, the client and server are mutually authenticated with each other and a set of keys are established for the session. The secure channel is then terminated and session keys destroyed whenever any error is detected in the SCP.

HID Global has made significant contributions to the OSDP specification, and is one of the first to support OSDP with SCP in its reader portfolio as part of its iCLASS SE platform. iCLASS SE platform readers with OSDP enable central, which lowers operational costs by making them faster and easier to configure and service. The readers also increase security because each device uses a secure channel protocol used to secure sensitive data, reducing the risk of unknown tamper. Finally, they save on wiring, since just two conductors are required rather than five or six for audio (beeper), visual (LED), supervision and data transactions (power excluded).

OSDP with SCP and other industry standards will continue to play an increasingly important role in the PACS industry, delivering improved security and new capabilities while ensuring that users can future-proof their infrastructure investments with highly adaptable solutions that can grow and evolve.

ISSUES

Global Security d.o.o.

Hasiba Brankovića c, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
Tel: +387 (0)33/788-985
Fax: +387 (0)33/788-986
Web site: www.asadria.com
Marketing: marketing@asadria.com
Subscription: pretplata@asadria.com
VAT no: 201142740001
ID no: 4201142740001
ISSN 1986-5

a&s Adria – professional security magazine for providing total security solutions is a monthly circulating publication and a licenced representative of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media for Adriatic region, which consists of following countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Slovenia and Serbia.