Proponents of video analytics claim the technology can boost the productivity of security staff by alerting them to take action in the event an incident occurs according to predetermined rules. In theory, this enables fewer officers to oversee larger coverage areas by freeing them from perpetually watching an increasing number of video displays and make intelligent response decisions when security violations occur. And for many indoor surveillance applications, this is often the case.
- By John Romanowich
- Feb 03, 2010
When you think RFID in security, you automatically think access control. Access control badges are ubiquitous in enterprise environments for use at entrances and exits in virtually all industries. But there is more to RFID in security applications than going through doors.
- By Bill Nuffer, Leon Chlimper
- Feb 02, 2010
Technological refinements and cost effectiveness in video surveillance systems are changing the security industry as we know it. Just about every aspect of a surveillance installation benefits from enhanced capabilities.
- By Mark Oliver
- Feb 01, 2010
IMS Research is revealing what it believes will be the hottest video surveillance trends for the year ahead.
In 2010, 'green' mania will sweep security industry, H.264 will continue it's ascension to the video compression throne, and networked IP video solutions will keep replacing analog CCTV systems as organizations seek to keep costs down.
- By Elan Moriah
- Jan 05, 2010
In 2007, a customer of the AXA Group, a financial protection company, wanted to replace an existing strong authentication system with a smartcard- based solution to coincide with an end-user hardware refresh project. AXA Technology Services initially proposed its smartcard platform, and the customer was interested in extending it to support biometric authentication.
Integrating two or more security systems across an IP network provides the end user with far greater benefits than individual systems. Add this to the long list of advantages a distributed IP video system delivers, and the end result is a very compelling argument for integration.
- By Barry Keepence
- Jan 04, 2010
Mobile video applications for Apple iPhone, iPod Touch, Blackberry and other PDAs are a growing trend that is expanding the practical everyday use of video surveillance security systems. In a climate of tight budgets, the security industry is searching for new and innovative ways to make use of existing infrastructure and to increase the overall productivity of those charged with keeping us safe. Feeling Software from Montreal is quickly expanding its product portfolio into this challenging area. We took a few minutes to talk to the CEO of Feeling Software, Christian Laforte, to get his perspective of this growing trend.
There is no question that advancements in video are continually revolutionizing the security industry. New capabilities emerge and, subsequently, the scope of what is possible grows. The implications of this trend can be seen in surveillance, reconnaissance, identity verification, information management and data dissemination.
- By John Bradburn, Mark Clifton
- Dec 01, 2009
System designers, installers and end users have experienced the frustration that comes when cameras fail to work well in lowlight conditions, producing grainy, noisy video. The video compression used in most IP cameras and DVRs depends on the fact that there is little change in most scenes over time.
- By Dave Smith
- Dec 01, 2009
University of Utah engineers showed that a wireless network of radio transmitters can track people moving behind solid walls. The system could help police, firefighters and others nab intruders, and rescue hostages, fire victims and elderly people who fall in their homes. It also might help retail marketing and border control.
Gary Perlin has seen numerous changes in the security industry, most of them involving technology that, a few years ago, would have boggled the mind. Perlin has stayed in lock-step with the forward movement of the industry, so we wanted to talk with him about analog and network infrastructure and how hybrid solutions are affecting the industry today.
- By Security Products Staff
- Oct 07, 2009
We have entered a new realm in the world of video surveillance. Gone are the days of the security guard tethered to a dedicated desktop monitor, reacting to unfolding events within a closed environment. With today's advancements in IP-based network infrastructures, management of video surveillance can be a much more valuable endeavor.
Imagine hearing a sudden burst of what sounds like a gunshot. But was it a gunshot? Was it a car back firing, or maybe it was a firecracker? And from where did that sound come from? Without accurate information available, the sound registers but gets ignored.
- By Sherleen Mahoney
- Oct 05, 2009
Terrorism and other security threats are generating a high demand for advanced video security solutions that can help detect threats and protect lives and assets. A wide range of industries—including banking, retail, critical infrastructure, government, education, ports, public transportation and homeland security —is interested in a broader deployment of video solutions.
- By Elan Moriah
- Oct 01, 2009
Tradeshows provide an excellent opportunity for manufacturers to pitch their newest new products, though there’s no possible way to see every one and every thing.
- By Ralph C. Jensen
- Sep 30, 2009
Technology plays a dichotomous role in the
security of an organization's information
assets. While it enables us to protect assets in
ways we never imagined, it also can enable the very
threats that leave those assets vulnerable.
- By B. Scott Haroff
- Sep 10, 2009
A breakthrough in security optics technology, called Varifocal Plus, is expected to revolutionize the industry. The solution offers precise CCTV installations with total cost of ownership considerations. It also is expected to surpass conventional technology and create new marketing areas for the CCTV surveillance market by providing time-saving installation and commissioning through consistent focusing technology.
- By Tom Harada
- Sep 04, 2009
Today's airports are as critical to homeland security as they were in the months following Sept. 11, 2001. Airport security officials have implemented new protocols and installed sophisticated scanning technology, while travelers have grown accustomed to more stringent security procedures— from removing shoes to the ubiquitous baggies of approved liquids.
On-Net Surveillance Systems, Inc. (OnSSI) and Defentect are working together in a research demonstration project run by San Diego State University's Homeland Security Program and the SDSU Immersive Visualization Center (" Viz Center") that focuses on technologies and best practices needed to address the illicit transport of radiological materials used to make dirty bombs.