Day: July 25, 2020

Command Centre v8.30, the latest version of Gallagher’s world-class security site management software, has hit the market. Gallagher’s v8.30 release improves operator efficiency with enhancements to Command Centre Mobile and integrated third-party systems, and further supports health and safety obligations with the introduction of Random Selection. This update also improves cyber security with DESFire EV1 and EV2 credential key migration.   “We serve customers with a range of needs – from critical high security facilities to small, local operations,” said Rachel Kelly, Chief Product Officer at Gallagher, “Our commitment to delivering security that meets the highest global standards means we work hard to continuously develop and release software that gives our customers the most secure platform possible.” With this latest release, upgrades to Command Centre Mobile functionality further free operators from the control room, allowing them to do more on the go and respond to situations from anywhere on site. Enhancements to integrated third party interfaces, including the Milestone video interface, enable customers to adapt the system to best fit their needs. The new Random Selection function enables sites to comply with health and safety obligations by randomly selecting cardholders for purposes such as drug and alcohol testing. Random Selection creates reliable, easily retrievable audit trails and ensures unbiased procedures. Gallagher Command Centre v8.30 was released on 17 June 2020. Command Centre is a powerful software solution that protects people and businesses with complete site control from one central platform.  

Qognify – the trusted advisor and technology solution provider for physical security and enterprise incident management – has recently launched Cayuga R15. The new release of Qognify’s video management system (VMS) for multi-site corporate and enterprise projects focuses on enhanced usability and connectivity, improved maintainability and intelligent analytics.   One of the main goals while developing Cayuga R15 was to help security personnel quickly identify, locate and evaluate an event. This can present a real challenge when operating large systems with widely distributed locations and a large number of cameras. Cayuga R15 solves this problem by supporting the use of the powerful Esri ArcGIS mapping platform, enabling cameras to be positioned on a map and available globally – depending on access rights. Multiple views or areas of interest within one map source as well as the clustering of icons depending on the zoom level make it easy to keep the overview on the map at any time. The new Qognify Mobile Client is another powerful tool added in Cayuga R15 that improves the ability to respond to an event. The Mobile Client is the result of Qognify’s cross-product initiative, to combine the benefits of technological assets within its VMS portfolio. It can connect to Cayuga and Ocularis installations using a smartphone or tablet, enabling security personnel to view live streams as well as to browse and playback recorded footage remotely in a totally revamped, intuitive design. It is available for iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the App Store or from Google Play at no additional costs. For organisations such as those in the retail sector that often need to export video in a way that does not infringe privacy rights, Cayuga R15 adds a new export designer, which enables the editing (blurring and/ or masking of moving objects and static areas) of video sequences to be exported. This new functionality is complemented by an optional export validation tool – provided on the Qognify website – that can be used to easily check that exported footage supplied for the purpose of evidence has not been tampered with. Many other changes, big and small made it into the release. For enterprise customers there is a new time management feature that enables the use of multiple distinguished holiday calendars within one organisation. Active directory management has been further improved and now offers even deeper integration for setting user rights directly in Windows. And finally, for customers relying on video analytics as part of their security regiment, Cayuga R15 now uses deep learning-based AI to deliver optimised object classification. This helps to set up video analysis faster and mitigates false alarms caused by common occurrences such as insects and headlights. Carsten Eckstein, Head of Product Management for Cayuga at Qognify is proud of what his team achieved for this latest version of the product and said, “The additions and enhancements in Cayuga R15 are in direct response to the feedback from our partners and customers. This is the first release, where Qognify’s new development philosophy, to look beyond one specific product, has been put to practice. I can’t wait for Cayuga customers to start using R15 but it is equally nice to know that also those users who rely on other Qognify products will profit from the work we have accomplished here in their Qognify system of choice.” Cayuga R15 is compatible with Qognify’s innovative Umbrella web-based platform that can be used to configure, manage and monitor all connected Cayuga systems centrally. It also integrates with its business video intelligence (BVI) software, which combines video footage from Cayuga with transaction data from business-related IT systems to create new levels of information to optimise business processes.  

The Line of FLIR EST Thermal Solutions Include Enhanced Screening Mode to Offer Fast, Safe, and Simplified Frontline Screening FLIR Systems, Inc. recently announced modified thermal cameras for fast and safe non-contact elevated skin temperature screening. The FLIR EST™ thermal screening solutions provide frontline screening at building entries and in high traffic areas to improve safety and help curb the spread of COVID-19. The FLIR Axxx-EST, FLIR T5xx-EST, and FLIR Exx-EST series cameras are designed to simplify the screening process, reducing the burden on screening operators and adhering to recommended social distancing guidelines.   “The new FLIR EST thermal solutions represent nearly two decades of experience designing and manufacturing thermal measurement solutions for skin temperature screening,” said Jim Cannon, President and CEO at FLIR, “These cameras are our easiest cameras to set up and operate to date for skin temperature screening, requiring limited training to begin screening people more quickly and accurately.” FLIR Screen-EST Mode The new EST cameras also introduce an enhanced, on-camera FLIR Screen-EST mode, which increases throughput by 25 percent compared to the previous version. To further improve accuracy, the updated Screen-EST mode automatically generates a sample baseline temperature average and compares individuals’ skin temperature against that baseline, reducing measurement uncertainty from natural body temperature fluctuations and environmental effects. This mode can sound or display an alarm when the camera detects an elevated temperature above a set threshold. If the screening mode detects an individual with elevated skin temperature, they should then be evaluated using a medical device such as a thermometer. In addition, the new EST cameras are compatible with the new FLIR Screen-EST desktop software announced earlier in June. FLIR Axxx-EST Series The A500-EST and A700-EST cameras are designed for permanent, fixed-mounted installations and can be deployed as a single, standalone screening station or in a network. The cameras can be connected to most video management systems while the camera housing features multiple mounting points to support tripod or permanent installations. FLIR T5xx-EST Series The T540-EST and T560-EST are designed to operate in either a mobile or more permanent setting. The flexible form factor enables a cable-free mobile operation with up to four hours of battery life or hands-free use with an integrated tripod mount. FLIR Exx-EST Series Light, ergonomically designed for handheld use, and battery-powered, the E54-EST and E86-EST offer the capability for mobile screening settings with a bright, easyto-use integrated touchscreen display. Tripod mounts are also available for the Exx-EST models.  

The GSC3610 and GSC3615 are weatherproof HD IP surveillance cameras that support motion detection, include smart infrared technology and provide a variety of alert notifications. Grandstream, connecting the world with award-winning unified communication solutions since 2002, recently announced the new GSC3600 series of IP surveillance cameras. The new series includes the GSC3610, an infrared weatherproof dome IP camera, and the GSC3615, an infrared weatherproof bullet IP camera. The GSC3610 and GSC3615 feature a 3.6mm lens and are ideal for wide-angle monitoring of nearby subjects in environments such as banks, hotels, retail, offices, warehouses, and building entrances. The GSC3610 and GSC3615 support motion detection and include smart infrared technology for white balance and exposure to monitor activity at night or in dark enclosed spaces. They can be managed with GSurf Pro, Grandstream’s free video management software, along with other ONVIF-compliant platforms. These weatherproof HD IP cameras offer video and audio streaming with other SIP endpoints thanks to SIP/ VoIP support, and support alert notifications through voice or video calls and email screenshots. The GSC3610 and GSC3615 pair with Grandstream’s GXV series IP video phones and GSC3570 HD intercom and facility control station to create a powerful security and monitoring solution. The GSC3615 features a bullet-camera design ideal for wall mounting, while the GSC3610 provides a dome camera ideal for being mounted on a ceiling. Other GSC series features include: Support for H.264, H.265, JPEG, and MJPEG video compression. 1/2.9” progressive scan CMOS sensor, 1920×1080. Supports 1080p HD video and dual streaming (primary stream 1920×1080, secondary stream 640×480). Fixed 3.6mm lens, ideal for wide-angle monitoring of nearby subjects. Built with IP66-level weatherproof metal casing. Supports motion detection. Smart infrared technology for optimal white balance and exposure (2x infrared LED reach up to 20 meters). 1x RJ-45 (10/100Mbps) port with integrated PoE. 1x audio line-in (3.5mm), one audio line-out (3.5mm), video output via network port. Supports alert notifications via outbound voice or video call & email screenshot. SIP/ VoIP support for video and audio streaming to endpoints (external microphone required).  

New pressure-reducing and pressure-relief valves designed for simple, efficient installation and operation Johnson Controls has launched two new TYCO® pressure control valves for fire protection systems – the TYCO® Model RV-1A pressure relief valve and the TYCO® Model PRV-1A pressure reducing valve. The new valves offer simple, low-maintenance solutions for controlling and maintaining optimal water pressure within commercial fire protection systems. The TYCO® RV-1A pressure relief valve automatically relieves excess pressure in fire protection systems to maintain a relatively constant system pressure as flow demands change. Its simple design eliminates the need for users to bleed trapped air from the diaphragm chamber. The valve offers users a nominal relief ‘set pressure’ range of 30 to 250 psi (2.1 to 17.2 bar). “With a simple trim configuration and just one moving part, just like the DV-5A, these new valves provide optimal pressure control with minimal maintenance and dependable, consistent operation over time,” said Gijsbert van Rooijen, Global Product Manager, Johnson Controls. The TYCO® PRV-1A pressure reducing valve reduces a higher inlet pressure to a lower outlet delivery pressure in water-filled pipes. It automatically maintains the outlet ‘set pressure’ (static and residual) within a close range, regardless of fluctuations in the higher-pressure inlet line or varying flow rates. “We developed both valves using the same diaphragm design as the TYCO® DV-5A deluge valve,” said Gijsbert van Rooijen, “With a simple trim configuration and just one moving part, just like the DV-5A, these new valves provide optimal pressure control with minimal maintenance and dependable, consistent operation over time.” The RV-1A and PRV-1A valves are UL and ULc listed and FM approved. Both valves are factory assembled and fully trimmed. They are available in sizes ranging from two inches to eight inches, with flange-by-flange and groovedby-grooved end connection options.  

Integrated security manufacturer TDSi has launched the new free Track and Trace module for its powerful EXgarde security management software. Track and Trace is designed to help organisations investigate and map the movement of people potentially infected with COVID-19 (or any other dangerous pathogen), so those who have come into potential contact can isolate or seek medical testing/ assistance.   TDSi’s Managing Director, John Davies commented, “The Track and Trace module has been rapidly developed in response to global requirements to help contain and fight the spread of COVID-19. Ac cess control systems are very well placed to not only restrict movement but also to accurately record it. TDSi has an ongoing mission of delivering peace of mind, so we are offering Track and Trace as a free download to all users of EXgarde as part of our commitment to help organisations meet the current pandemic needs and requirements.” TDSi’s Track and Trace module uses the company’s powerful EXgarde software to make a detailed database enquiry, reporting on the movements of specific individuals as they pass through secured access points. Installed as an application in the EXgarde system, it gives an accurate account of other individuals that have used access points that the infectious person has been in contact with. This data helps managers assess and test those in potential danger of infection, as well as enabling the cleaning of relevant areas and the introduction of isolation measures where appropriate. John added, “A big part of bringing the COVID-19 pandemic to heel is tracking infections and preventing the further spread of the disease. We have already seen the likes of Apple and Google working on smartphone apps to track contact by infected people, but this requires individuals to actively participate. On the other hand, electronic access control systems do not just rely on people having the right device and app in place, they can track anyone who enters a secured area via their credentials.” As a free addition to TDSi EXgarde installations, Track and Trace is perfect for any type of organisation and facility. From office and business premises (ranging from SMEs to large multi-national Enterprise), to factories and logistics centres, utilities sites, schools, universities (including multi-site and large campuses), and crucial hospitals and healthcare centres. At any given time, EXgarde provides a quick but detailed view of how many occupants are within a designated area, with all the access events of any keyholder. Operators can use the TDSi EXPostOffice tool to get notifications of events (focusing on specific key holders and/ or the readers that have been touched). John concluded, “Governments around the world are setting in motion plans for testing, tracking and tracing as a way of bringing their populations and economies out of lockdown. Security systems can play a vital part in assisting in these efforts. TDSi is immensely proud to be assisting by ensuring our systems enable security operators to take a decisive lead in limiting the spread of infection.”  

At a time when many businesses are striving to recover from the economic consequences of COVID-19 and might, therefore, have a reduced security budget, Hanwha Techwin introduced a highly cost-effective way to add a camera or another PoE enabled device to an existing system, or install a new two-camera video surveillance solution. As well as their value proposition to end-users, these new cameras will undoubtedly make life much easier for system integrators by minimising the time they have to spend on site. The new Wisenet PoE extender cameras are designed to save integrators and end-users time and money when there is a requirement to install two cameras within 80 metres of each other. For retrofit applications where an additional camera is needed, system integrators need to simply substitute an existing Wisenet camera with a PoE Extender camera, and then re-install it at the new camera location, with both devices being able to share the same cable run. With the ability to support all PoE cameras within the entire Wisenet range, the new 2 and 5 megapixel PoE Extender indoor and outdoor dome cameras provide an equally cost-effective solution for new installations as they reduce the number of network ports and switches, as well as the amount of cabling required. Installation ease is matched by a considerable reduction in the cost of the time system integrator would normally have to spend on-site to install a new camera. System integrators also have the option to connect other PoE enabled devices to the Wisenet PoE extender cameras, such as a supplementary lighting unit, I/O controller or PIR sensor. The 4 new dome cameras all have built-in IR LEDs which illuminate objects up to 50 metres from the camera and feature digital image stabilisation (DIS) which helps ensure the capture of sharp, stable images by reducing motion blur which is caused by wind or vibration. All are equipped with wide dynamic range (WDR) technology, with the 2-megapixel models performing at up to 150dB and the 5-megapixel models at up to 120dB, to produce clear images from scenes containing a challenging mix of bright and dark areas, which normally results in overexposed or underexposed images. Ultra installer friendly Part of the Wisenet X Plus series, the PoE Extender cameras offer a number of other practical features which further minimises the time installers have to spend on-site, including magnets which lock sensor modules into the dome housing. A waterproof gland through which a network cable can be inserted with the aid of an RJ45 plastic push-through device, negates the need to re-make a cable end. Prior to installation, technicians from the convenience of their workshop, are to configure IP network settings without the need to remove a camera module from its packaging. Advanced audio and video analytics The new cameras come supplied with a diverse range of license-free specialist analytics such as directional detection, virtual line, enter/ exit, appear/ disappear and loitering detection. In addition, an audio analysis function is able to recognise critical sounds such as explosions, screams and broken glass, and then immediately generates an alert to enable emergency services to react quickly and effectively to any incident. In a retail environment, for example, this functionality could be used to alert security personnel that a customer is behaving aggressively to a sales colleague. Business intelligence The processing power of the chipset at the heart of the new cameras enables them to support edge-based people counting, heatmap and queue management applications. These offer retailers, art galleries, museums and other businesses which are open to the public, the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of customer behaviour and improve productivity, with the option to display the captured data on the centralised dashboard of the Wisenet Retail Insight (v2.0) business intelligence solution.