Month: August 2025

SmartGateway Deployment Designed to Streamline Built-In Protection and Easy Entrance for Students, Faculty, and Visitors Xtract One Technologies recently announced its SmartGateway has been selected by Meridian Public School District (MPSD) in Meridian, Mississippi to amplify school safety throughout its campuses. The comprehensive, customizable entry screening solution is designed to unobtrusively scan students and visitors with the ability to detect concealed threats before they are brought onto campus, maintaining a secure, yet welcoming, school environment. Understanding the importance of fostering a safe learning environment, Meridian Public Schools is set to deploy Xtract One’s SmartGateway initially for the High School, and with plans to eventually deploy across all ten campuses, prioritizing the safety of over 4,500 students and 1,000 employees. After evaluating several safety solutions, Meridian Public Schools selected SmartGateway due to its proven ability to deliver advanced detection capabilities with minimal disruptions. “Proactive threat detection is crucial for preventing disturbance in educational institutions. The right system com­bined with a strategic, holistic, and people-first plan makes for an even more effective safety protocol,” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One, “We’re excited to expand our school footprint working with Meridian Public Schools, as our presence helps ensure that students and faculty can prioritize a focus on education without personal safety concerns.” “At Meridian Public Schools, maintaining the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our highest priority and our partnership with Xtract One is an example of that,” said Chief Cornelius Parks, Chief of Police at Meridian Public School District, “We’re passionate about cultivating safer spaces for the community that allow individuals to enter our buildings, and experience a positive learning environment.” The implementation of SmartGateway demonstrates the shared commitment between MPSD and Xtract One in proactively detecting and addressing security challenges and creating safer environments for the community that allow individuals to enjoy campus life, experience an optimal learning environment, and have peace of mind. SmartGateway replaces intimidating metal detectors with fast, reliable, and accurate weapons screening at security checkpoints. Powered by AI sensors, SmartGateway detects threats discreetly, without invading the sense of privacy of those passing through the system. SmartGateway unobtru­sively scans individuals for guns, knives, and other prohib­ited items as they enter the building. The system allows for seamless passage through checkpoints, enabling uninterrupt­ed flow of movement that lets individuals enter the building significantly reducing the need to divest of low volume personal items. Read More

Unified platform improves safety, efficiency, and incident response across 50 sites and three distribution centers Genetec Inc. , the global player in enterprise physical security software, recently announced that CDW Corporation, a leading multi-brand provider of IT solutions in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, has deployed the Genetec™ Security Center platform to standardize and unify its physical security operations across over 50 global sites and distribution centers. Faced with a fragmented security infrastructure inherited through years of growth and acquisitions, CDW’s Global Security team sought a platform that could streamline access control, video surveillance, and identity management. After an extensive evaluation, CDW selected Genetec Security Center for its open architecture, robust data reporting capabil­ities, and operational flexibility. “We had a wide range of systems that we were attempt­ing to bring together, with different data sets and cardholders. It wasn’t efficient or scalable,” said Adam Smith, Global Se­curity Manager at CDW, “When the systems aren’t evolving with you, it can become a real problem.” Real-time data, automation, and analytics improve efficiency The unified platform has helped CDW dramatically streamline tasks, increase automation, and reduce inci­dent response time. Tasks that once took hours or even days – like pulling video evidence or responding to intercom alerts – can now be handled in minutes or seconds. Beyond improving security, CDW is using advanced analytics and automation to optimize broader business op­erations. Using people-counting analytics, the security team can verify that all staff have exited distribution centers before closing, ensure appropriate staffing levels during busy peri­ods, and adjust guard coverage based on real-time occupancy data. Smarter access control and collaboration Access management has also been overhauled. With Ge­netec ClearID™, CDW moved from a manually intensive process to a decentralized, rules-based model. Access rights are now granted or revoked automatically based on roles, schedules, or local management approval. “An operator at our security operations center wouldn’t necessarily know who is allowed access to each space,” said Smith, “Now, access can be assigned by local managers, or the process is automated based on credentials. We have rules-based provisioning for access control. We rarely have to set anyone’s access level anymore. It’s been both a dramatic time-saver and an enhanced experience.” Coordinated workflows with Genetec Operations Center To further streamline task management and incident co­ordination, CDW also implemented Genetec Operations Center, a work management solution that supports standard­ized procedures, task tracking, and team communication. By embedding standard operating procedures into the system and automating key notifications, Operations Center ensures CDW’s global teams can respond quickly and consistently, reducing delays, miscommunication, and risk. Read More

Background The Chiba Taxi Association manages over 5,000 taxi vehicles across its eight branches in Chiba Prefecture. Among them, the Keiyo Branch and the Keiyo District Taxi Operations Council have led efforts to install network cameras at key terminal stations for the past 18 years. These systems have supported the monitoring of taxi stand conges­tion, crime prevention, and emergency response, including the identification of stranded commuters during disasters. In response to taxi deregulation by the national govern­ment in 2002, large numbers of taxis began flocking to sta­tion stands, creating serious congestion. To address this, the association introduced its first ‘Taxi Satellite System,’ which temporarily redirects waiting taxis to offsite parking areas and calls them back via radio when space becomes available at the station. Initially, this operation was manually handled by on-site traffic supervisors, but over time, it transitioned to camera-based monitoring using network camera systems. At the time, deploying network cameras to support such a system was a groundbreaking move in Japan – considered both advanced and innovative. This camera-based approach helped reduce congestion and wait times while also contrib­uting to public safety and convenience. Building on this long-standing commitment to safer and more efficient taxi operations, the association has now introduced a new monitoring system powered by VIVOTEK cameras at JR Maihama Station – a station widely known as the gateway to Tokyo Disney Resort. The goal is to visualize and manage congestion caused by overtourism in the area. Challenge Overcrowding Around a Major Tourist Hub JR Maihama Station serves tens of thousands of passengers daily, many of whom visit Tokyo Disney Resort, located just a five-minute walk away. Adding to the strain, inbound tourism surged in Japan after COVID-19, making evening hours – especially after 8 PM – particularly congested. In some cases, buses and taxis were unable to access the station due to heavy traffic caused by private vehicles. Staff Shortages from an Aging Workforce In the past, supervisors were stationed at major terminals to monitor congestion, maintain order at the rotary, and prevent unauthorized taxi operations – particularly by Tokyo-based taxis operating outside their jurisdiction. However, in recent years, the association has faced increasing challenges due to an aging workforce and a declining pool of available personnel. Solution Full-Surround Coverage with Fewer Cameras VIVOTEK’s fisheye cameras provide seamless 360° cov­erage, eliminating blind spots and enabling comprehensive monitoring of the taxi stand area with fewer units. This not only enhances situational awareness but also proves valuable during investigations and when sharing footage with law en­forcement. The wide field of view from a single camera helps reduce both installation and maintenance costs. Additionally, the camera’s built-in IR illuminator ensures clear video even low-light conditions – an essential feature for round-the-clock taxi operations. Remote Monitoring for Smarter Dispatching Live footage from the cameras is streamed directly to taxi and bus company dispatch centers, enabling remote monitor­ing of congestion at taxi stands without the need for on-site staff. This has streamlined the dispatching process and helped alleviate overcrowding. By gradually shifting from manual patrols to camera-based monitoring, the association has also mitigated labor shortages while achieving significant im­provements in both cost saving and operational efficiency. Benefits Camera footage is also shared with local law enforce­ment. Under a crime prevention agreement with the Urayasu Police Station of the Chiba Prefectural Police, the footage has been utilized for both investigation and deter­rence. The association continues to leverage both new and existing camera systems – not only to ease congestion at taxi and bus stands but also to help maintain a peaceful environ­ment and support the creation of a safer society. Read More

The National Bank of Costa Rica, founded in 1877, is the oldest financial institution in the country. It plays a crucial role in the national economy, pro­viding accessible financial services and supporting Costa Rica’s economic and social development. Its mission ranges from providing financial services accessible to all sectors of the population to actively supporting key initiatives for national growth. Challenges National Bank faced multiple challenges in terms of its electronic security, characterized by multiple iso­lated systems that made it difficult to manage and update. Faced with this situation, and with advances in technolog­ical developments, it was necessary to implement a new integrated, dynamic, robust, scalable solution that would allow updates, covering access control, video surveillance, intrusion alarms and fire detection, to guarantee reliability and adequate support to the institution. During the implementation of the solutions, the team faced considerable challenges. The pandemic and a four-year cumulative demand altered supply and logistics schemes, requiring new protocols from import to installa­tion. A crisis of shortages of key components also impacted the process. Despite these obstacles, the work schedule was maintained. Solution Johnson Controls was selected after a rigorous study that evaluated aspects of the important to the networked sys­tem, such as bandwidth consumption, software efficiency, user interface, and overall system performance. This solu­tion not only proved to be compatible with the institutional needs of National Bank, but also offered the necessary integration between the different security subsystems. National Bank implemented a full range of Johnson Controls products to strengthen its electronic security infra­structure. Among the products used are the complete line of DSC Neo and Pro intrusion systems, the Exacq Enterprise version video servers for advanced video surveillance man­agement, the C•CURE access control system for compre­hensive access management and physical security and the 4100ES series Simplex fire detection panels to ensure early detection and effective response to emergencies. These solutions were selected for their proven ability to integrate and perform, perfectly adapting to the bank’s spe­cific needs in terms of reliability and support. In addition, all security subsystems are integrated under a single man­agement interface, allowing users and security managers to better manage and control each other. The constant review of the process, facing restrictions and crises, and even thus complying with the installation schemes, only reflect the interest of all the parties in carrying out the project. Having a strategic partner such as Johnson Controls has allowed us to develop this migration process Oscar Cascante DelgadoElectronic Security Specialist Engineer, Construction andStandardization Unit of the National Bank of Costa Rica Outcomes The new security scheme has marked a notable improve­ment in the National Bank. Thanks to open communi­cation with customers, the desired results were achieved. “Openness in communicating with customers has been crucial; we make sure their needs are heard and addressed. We are committed to providing technology solutions that continuously improve banking processes in the short, medium and long term,” said Virginia Baez, Regional Sales Manager at Johnson Controls. As an initial aspect, the reuse of existing analogue systems was considered, facilitating their migration to the new platform. In addition, a more advanced system was implemented in this project that includes better video quality and greater video availability. Alarm systems have been optimized, which has significantly reduced the number of false alarms and increased their reliability. Excellent video quality makes it easy to resolve incidents in daily operations without setbacks. In general, the bank’s security scheme has been fully strengthened. Today, the system operates smoothly in terms of video, intrusion and fire alarms. As for aspects related to cybersecurity, the bank has its own policies, led by the IT department. Johnson Controls took on the challenge of complying with these policies, committing itself from prod­uct development to offer a highly reliable and cyber-secure solution for all subsystems. In the future, the National Bank aims to maintain a gradual obsolescence scheme to minimize the impact of future implementations. In addition, it is planned to start the integration of platforms such as C•CURE and strengthen the implementation of fire detection systems to standardize them in all regional offices. It is also sought to bring the access control system to all the venues. Johnson Controls wide range of products and ongoing technical advice have been instrumental in developing specific projects that meet customer requirements. “Johnson Controls automation capability and technological advance­ment have made it possible to offer optimal and customized solutions,making a significant difference in their implemen­tations,” said Fabián Malcmann, General Manager of I.S.S. Integral Security Systems S.A. Thanks to the solutions implemented, the performance of the system has improved considerably today. The plat­form has managed to stabilize itself in terms of failures, with high equipment availability ensuring that information is always accessible for well-informed decision-making. Read More

IXM Peru, part of the global CMOC Group, operates a high-security mineral storage hub in Callao, Peru, a vital transit point where valuable exports are stored for days or weeks before international shipment. As the site scaled operations to serve major mining clients, it needed video technology that could keep up with the pace and pressure of continuous oversight. As operations expanded, IXM Peru quickly outgrew its existing video infra­structure. The company sought a mod­ern solution that could scale with its camera network, ensure uninterrupted recording, and unify multiple devices into a single, dependable system. Most importantly, it had to guarantee 24/7 uptime to track mineral movements from arrival to export, upholding the strict security standards expected by international partners. Challenge: Overcoming system limitations IXM Peru’s existing video monitoring system struggled with increasing demands as the facility expanded its camera network. Recording gaps of up to 90 minutes left blind spots in security coverage, which is an unacceptable risk when dealing with high-value mineral exports. Storage limitations led to lost recordings, with some cameras requir­ing nine months of archival footage. When clients requested video verifica­tion of vehicle movements or mineral handling, the team often couldn’t provide evidence, potentially damaging business relationships and transparency. Solution: Open platform VMS brings stability and scalability IXM Peru upgraded to Mile­stone XProtect Professional Plus running on dedicated Husky NVR servers, bringing together their mix of cameras, including 60 Axis Com­munications cameras into a unified system. FORTREX SAC, a certified Milestone partner, configured the system with tailored storage durations and established a backup infrastructure at IXM’s San Isidro, Peru office. The solution leveraged Milestone’s open platform architecture to ensure seamless integration of all components while providing capacity for future expansion. At IXM Peru, the upgraded video system does far more than capture video data, it delivers actionable oper­ational intelligence. A 24/7 monitoring center in Argentina, operated by securi­ty partner Crome, oversees the facility remotely, generating daily reports on everything from mineral volume levels and access control violations to person­al protective equipment (PPE) compli­ance and safety protocol adherence. Results: Seamless operations enhance security via uninterrupted video Since deploying the Milestone solution in late 2024, IXM Peru has eliminated recording failures and system crashes completely. The facility now maintains continuous monitoring of critical areas, providing full tracea­bility of vehicle movements and miner­al handling operations. The streamlined migration took just 30 minutes without disrupting operations, a stark contrast to the hours previously lost to system out­ages. Staff can now focus on security tasks rather than troubleshooting techni­cal issues, while clients receive prompt video verification when requested. At IXM Peru, the upgraded video system does far more than capture video data, it delivers actionable oper­ational intelligence. A 24/7 monitoring center in Argentina, operated by securi­ty partner Crome, oversees the facility remotely, generating daily reports on everything from mineral volume levels and access control violations to person­al protective equipment (PPE) compli­ance and safety protocol adherence. The platform enhances not only asset protection but also the efficiency of our operations. It helps us track logistics flows, verify proper vehicle entry and unloading, and ensure every step of the process is carried out as expected. Fast, flexible migration sets the stage for future innovation One of the most impressive aspects of the project was the speed and simplicity of the system migration. Unlike typical upgrades, where cam­era-by-camera reconfigurations can cause hours of downtime, IXM Peru’s transition to the Milestone platform was completed in just 30 minutes. Thanks to Milestone’s flexible architecture, critical areas such as laboratories and management offices maintained unin­terrupted video access throughout the process. The main challenge was migrating the entire system and transferring data from 60 cameras without affecting the client’s operations, and we did it in just half an hour. Milestone’s open platform is robust and flexible, allowing for the seamless integration of high-end camer­as such as Axis, ensuring compatibility and efficiency. The upgraded system now supports continuous recording in high-priority zones and motion-triggered capture in less active areas, optimizing both security and storage. Full HD cameras ensure clear, detailed footage, while Milestone’s open platform allowed IXM Peru to preserve their existing camera investments while modernizing their core infrastructure. Read More