Year: 2019

Vicon Industries, Inc. designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components, has recently announced that train ing and certification for its VAX access control system is now available as a convenient online course. Following the same curriculum as Vicon’s popular in-person training program, the new online class provides in-depth instruction on all aspects of VAX, from setup and programming to operational capabilities and special features. Coursework includes hands-on learning and exercises that make use of the actual VAX software. In addition, participants are encouraged to connect to any standard ONVIF compliant camera to simulate the most realistic user experience. The new, online, on-demand format allows participants to schedule classes at their convenience, log-in from a location of their choice and learn at their own pace. The VAX course is offered in two versions – both cover the same material. The VAX certification course is recommended for installing dealers. It takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete, including required testing. It must be completed within 60 days after starting the session. The VAX basic course does not include any exams, has no time limit for completion and does not confer ‘certified’ status. The basic course is intended for end-users and others seeking a greater understanding of the VAX platform. unlike the certification course, there is no fee for the basic version. “Vicon’s commitment to customer training has always been model for the industry, and we are proud to offer the same level of quality in our new online VAX training course. We believe that the most positive customer experiences begin with thorough training and a full appreciation of what our system can deliver,” said Bret McGowan, Sen ior V.P. of Sales and Marketing, Vicon.  

Quantum Corp. has recently introduced the F-Series, a new line of NVMe storage arrays designed for performance, availability and reliability. Using non-volatile memory express (NVMe) flash drives for ultra-fast reads and writes, it supports massive parallel processing and is designed for studio editing, rendering, and other performance intensive workloads utilizing large unstructured datasets. Incorporating the latest remote direct memory access (RDMA) networking technology, the F-Series provides direct access between workstations and the NVMe storage devices, delivering predictable, fast network performance. By combining these hardware features with the new Quantum Cloud Storage Platform and the StorNext® file system the F-Series delivers powerful end-to-end storage capabilities for post-production houses, broadcasters, and other rich media environments. Quantum F2000 hardware architecture The first product in the F-Series is the Quantum F2000, a highly available and performant storage server, purpose built for NVMe. The F2000 is a 2U, dual node server with two hot-swappable compute canisters and up to 24 dual-ported NVMe drives. Each compute canister can access all 24 NVMe drives, and includes processing power, memory, and connectivity specifically designed for the highest performance and availability. New software-defined architecture The F-Series is based on the Quantum Cloud Storage Platform, a software defined block storage stack tuned specifically for video and video-like data. It offers a future proof and reliable platform, eliminating data services unrelated to video while enhancing critical capabilities such as enhanced data protection, flexible networking and block interfaces. The result is an efficient architecture that maximizes streaming performance.  

Axis announces the 7th generation of its own ARTPEC chip, optimized for network video. The new chip will power an array of new capabilities and features coming to Axis network cameras. These features include even better im aging, enhanced security features, powerful compression and a possibility to run impressive analytics on the edge. Moreover, since the chip is fully developed by Axis, it provides a layer of control that is crucial for effective cybersecurity. Going forward, the new chip will be the basis for the vast majority of Axis network video products. One of the first cameras to include this chip is the AXIS P1375. “In the current market situation, we believe Axis has a strong competitive advantage as one of only a few manufacturers with our own system-on-chip,” says Johan Paulsson, Chief Technology Officer, “We have complete control over every single transistor, which is very good from a trust and cybersecurity perspective. Plus, unlike other chips, it’s not a generic all-purpose design; rather, it’s 100% optimized for creating high-quality Axis network video solutions.” Even better imaging under any conditions in any mode Thanks to a completely redesigned image processing pipeline, the chip further improves all the signature Axis technologies that have been created to address difficult light conditions. For example, LightFinder 2.0 will deliver more saturated and realistic colors than ever in low light, along with the sharpest images of moving objects even in the darkest areas. Likewise, forensic WDR will provide clearer images of moving objects as well as enhanced detail in backlit scenes, or scenes with big differences between the lightest and darkest areas. Increased sensitivity to light also significantly extends the range of illumination for Axis cameras with IR. Enhanced security features ARTPEC-7 enables ‘built-in’ security features for Axis cameras including signed firmware so only secure authorized firmware can be installed and secure boot, which prevents booting of unauthorized firmware. Powerful compression Future Axis cameras will also let users choose between H.264 and H.265 video encoding depending on what best suits their system and surveillance needs. Either encoding standard in combination with Axis Zipstream technology will now require even lower bandwidth and storage space without sacrificing image quality. In addition, users are free to re-evaluate their choice of codec at any time if their requirements should change. Impressive analytics on-the-edge Finally, this chip features a real-time object detection engine that will make it possible for Axis and Axis partners to develop powerful analytics to automatically detect and differentiate between people, faces and objects.  

Time-strapped customers will like the sound of this. ACT Enterprise’s rules mapping engine enables advanced configurations of triggers based on actions such as system input and card swipe outcomes. This feature can lead to very creative examples. For instance, Thomas Risager, Vanderbilt Sales Manager for Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, uses the rules mapping engine to send a pizza collection order when he badges out of the office every Friday evening. This is just one of many creatives instances that ACT Enterprise’s rules mapping engine can be used for. When the new feature was first demonstrated at IFSEC London in June 2018, customers set rules for instances such as badging in at the front gate every morning mean the coffee pot in their office would automatically switch on. Others wanted push notifications every time an employee entered the office after hours, and a follow-up notification when they then left. This was to help with health and safety purposes. The USP of the existing ACT system has been that it possesses all the features one would expect in a modern-day access control system, and the rules mapping engine is a crucial ingredient in this. Essentially, ACT Enterprise’s rules mapping engine helps deliver an advanced feature set to customers that hones in on convenience. ACT Enterprise: Simple drag-and-drop “ The ACT Enterprise rules mapping engine offers the customer an intuitive method to create rules based on access control events and Boolean logic,” stated Michael Moyna, Technical Product Marketing Manager at Vanderbilt, “It does this by permitting the creation of logical relationships between system elements through a drag-and-drop interface. “For the end user,” illustrated Moyna, “The addition of rules mapping ensures that system interactions can be seamlessly introduced on a system-wide basis, thereby enabling a higher level of added value to be realized, both for security and business-based functionalities.” ACT Enterprise Rules Mapping Engine: Easy-to-use Christopher O’Reilly, of O’Reilly Alarms in Ireland, has found great benefit in using ACT Enterprise’s rules mapping feature: “ACT Enterprise is very easy-to-use. I would describe it as excellent. My favorite feature is the rules mapping engine. Through this feature, ACT Enterprise has helped me solve monitoring backup generators on site for faults using the rules mapping engine to send alarms and trip alarm sounders,” stated O’Reilly.  

The AX-Hub is the latest innovation in intruder alarm systems. Part of the Hikvision AX series is designed for catering residential and small commercial applications. The AX-Hub connects security peripherals such as motion detectors and displacement sensors, alongside safety devices like smoke and gas sensors to keep people safe. Hikvision cameras and the AX-Hub alarm systems work seamlessly together to instantly provide a recorded video clip or live HD video footage, directly through Hik-Connect, iVMS, or to monitoring stations. This allows active decisions to be made faster and more reliably in the event of an activation. Simple to install and use, the AX-Hub provides voice prompts locally to assist during installation, as well as alert the end user to any events. It is also compatible with the Hik-Connect smart device app, in addition to a wide range of communication pathways and multiport IP communications via either the Cloud or CMS for added peace of mind. The Cloud connectivity allows full control of the system from anywhere via Hik-Connect, to easily and remotely arm, disarm and monitor the system. The Cloud also enables the use of revolutionary IVaaS (Intruder Verification as a Service), which allows end users and monitoring stations to quickly and efficiently confirm system events through HD video verification. USPs of AX-HUB Wireless intrusion panel with CCTV integration +mobile app. Voice guiding for ease of operations. Ease of programming via web/ app. Two-way wireless communication. 32 wireless inputs, 8 key fobs, 2 wireless sirens. In-built GPRS +SMS +voice dialing facility. Supports two Hikvision IP cameras for video verification. Supports viewing events video via mobile App. Transmission distance 800m in open area. 128 bit data encryption. In-built battery backup up to 12hrs. Hik-Connect Mobile App. 3rd party CMS software compatibility System architecture AX-Hub package provides for: Built-in IoT modules. AX-Hub with in-built GPRS module & Lan module. Pet immune motion sensor. Magnetic contact. Key fob – a small security device with built-in authentication used to control and secure access to network services and data. Hik-Connect mobile app +SMS +Auto dialing voice call. Supports web browser for integrating Hikvision IP cameras with AX-Hub. IP cameras to be purchased separately. Benefits   Web configuration: The AX-Hub has a built-in web server which enables the device to be configured through a web browser over the local IP network. This offers more flexibility and time saving on site, as setup can be done quickly and efficiently using a laptop or compatible smart device. Easy setup and installation: Setting up the system could not be simpler, with an intuitive and easy to use interface. Connect to the panel directly via the web-browser or with iVMS-4200 on a laptop for on-site setup, or alternatively, program the system using the Hik-Connect app. Learning devices and sensors to the system are also easy using the one-push-to-learn feature on all Hikvision wireless intrusion devices, to save time and money. Multiple communication paths: The variety of communication pathways available with the AX-Hub is unmatched. It offers LAN, Wi-Fi, GPRS and 3G/ 4G connections with on-board communication modules and connectors for a simpler and more cost-effective installation. With multiport IP communications, the AX-Hub can also communicate simultaneously with multiple devices, to ensure alarm messages are sent to all that need them. The AX-Hub can also notify up to six phone numbers in the event of an alarm through voice calls, offering greater flexibility in the way that end users are notified about events on the system. Arc linkage: If ARC connectivity is required, the AXHub can communicate alarms and other messages in contact ID format for a rapid and efficient response. Two-way wireless devices: AX-Hub can help add up to 32 two-way wireless devices. This provides a system which is secure and flexible – allowing even larger premises to be secured with a wide range of indoor and outdoor Hikvision peripherals. HIK-Connect: The end user app, Hik-Connect, brings together intrusion and video like never before. It links detectors and sensors to cameras for video verification as well as to provide the end user with the ability to monitor the system from anywhere in the world. It helps users in checking system status remotely, receiving alerts, arming and disarming, HD video monitoring and more, to remain informed and keep the system under complete control at all times. IVAAS (Intruder Verification as a Service): This revolutionary service provides video verification (from any Hikvision or ONVIF IP camera in the premises) for users to quickly and efficiently confirm an alarm event on the system. During the configuration of the panel, 2 cameras can be linked to the AXHub, which incorporates a rolling video buffer. Where other video verification methods rely on sending low-quality static images to confirm events, IVaaS utilises Cloud technology alongside the buffer to link previously separated video and intruder systems to one platform. This provides a 7 second clip in the event of an alarm, 5 seconds pre-alarm and 2 seconds post-alarm.