Gainspan unveils development kit for wireless surveillance

Editor / Provider: GainSpan | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Component

GainSpan Corporation, a supplier in ultra-low power Wi-Fi connectivity for the Internet of Things, introduced a complete reference design for wireless video streaming applications such as remote security/surveillance cameras, car back-up cameras and video baby monitors. The new Video Application Development Kit (ADK) speeds and simplifies design and integration of video streaming services into end products based on GainSpan Wi-Fi modules.

GainSpan's Video ADK includes hardware and software that help reduce the time needed to develop products that deliver live video over Wi-Fi. With the development kit, users can stream the video feed from a Wi-Fi enabled camera to an iOS or Android based smartphone.

Included in the Video ADK is a video application board, complete hardware design package and software suite with reference source code for the embedded video application, and iOS and Android based mobile applications. An Application Evaluation Kit (AEK) is also available that provides a binary version of the software and video mobile application.

The Video application board features the GainSpan GS1011M Wi-Fi module that communicates with an H.264 video compression chip (VGA resolution at 30 frames per second) over the SPI bus, a VGA camera and imaging sensor module, a motion detector, a single snapshot trigger button, a WPS/Provisioning button for easy set-up of the wireless network and mode indicator LEDs. The GainSpan embedded software running on the Wi-Fi module offers complete Wi-Fi functionality including the networking stack and services and wireless security. It supports mDNS/DNS-SD based device and service discovery that allows users to automatically discover and connect to the embedded video profile. In addition, it includes provisioning software that allows configuration of the Wi-Fi module in Limited AP or Client modes, and supports over-the-air firmware upgrades.

Offering flexibility of design and customization, the new kit provides hardware and software building blocks that provide a starting point for product development while allowing the developer to add application software and services, and customize the end product's user interface. With the reference source code included in the kit, customers can rapidly build custom features suited to their video applications.

"IP video surveillance cameras will soon represent over 50% of the video surveillance market and the demand for Wi-Fi based cameras has increased significantly due to ease of installation. With our Video ADK we've made it simple for customers to develop battery operated or line powered Wi-Fi cameras that can be activated through motion control" said Bernard Aboussouan , vice president of marketing at GainSpan. "This is the latest ADK featuring a complete end application that we've brought to market and, like our other ADKs, is designed to help customers get their products and services to market quickly and reliably."

In addition to the new Video ADK, GainSpan offers six other application development kits: a Smartplug ADK, Audio ADK, Temperature and Light Sensors ADK, Renesas Wi-Fi Sensor ADK, and functional ADKs such as Provisioning and Over-the-Air Firmware Update.

Tracking European karting championship tracks

Editor / Provider: Dallmeier electronic | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Government & Public Services

Noted for its size and professional chicanes, the ProKart Raceland karting circuit at Wackersdorf, Germany recently deployed five multisensor camera system to cover its 9.88 acres racing circuit (40,000 square meters) ahead of the FIA-CIK European Championship for the KZ class from 17 to 20 May 2013. The system was installed by Elektro-Kunz, a German company responsible for network and building engineering systems on the track for years.

The Raceland karting circuit is a “multipurpose” track. It is one of the largest karting circuits in Germany, and is regularly used to host international race meetings. With an impressive length of 1,222 metres and a width that varies between nine and 12 metres, the professional track challenges drivers with eight right-handed and six left-handed curves, requiring total concentration and stamina.

But apart from an exciting racing experience, the considerable size of the track also presents a major challenge for the video cameras. “We are operating a professional racing circuit here, and naturally this means that we also implement only the latest technology and the highest quality when it comes to security,” said Stephan Fritsch, the owner of ProKart Raceland.

Instead of setting up multiple cameras at various locations all over the premises, Fritsch settled on Dallmeier electronic's multisensor camera system in a cascade arrangement to deliver a panoramic overview through more than 180 degrees, thus covering the entire racing circuit from a single installation position.

"Cooperation with Dallmeier was excellent, especially when you realise that the entire project from initial discussions to the actual installation of the panoramic cameras was completed in the space of just a few weeks,” said Michael Karl, a representative of Elektro-Kunz. “This meant that we succeeded in commissioning the new video system, including the recording servers, in time for the European Championship meeting, despite the tight deadline.”

One of the great advantages of the new cameras is the ease which they are installed, and since only one installation site is required it saves not only wiring costs but amount of work involved, said Karl. So the stage was set for an exciting weekend of racing without a hitch. For a summary of this case study, please see video.

Mobotix releases three new 5-megapixel models

Editor / Provider: Mobotix | Updated: 5/23/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Mobotix has launched three new camera models with higher frame rate, better light sensitivity, better zoom capability utilizing 5 Megapixel technology.

The new camera models S15, D15 and V15 are developed from the already successful predecessor series. By using 5 Megapixel sensors in these new camera models, the users will be able to experience clear advantages. "The most visible changes that we have made for the users are that they will experience a clearly better light sensitivity in low light conditions or at night," says Dr. Ralf Hinkel, founder of Mobotix. "The light sensitivity of the overall image quality is up to four times better, which enhances the overall image quality in for instance bad weather conditions and in the dark."

The maximum QXGA resolution is therefore more than 2.5 times higher than full HD. Another major advantage is that the new sensor technology in combination with preprocessing the image data directly in the camera delivers a video stream frame rate of up to 30 frames per second. An increased zoom capability of the S15, D15 and V15 enhances the possibilities even further. "We have increased the zoom option in color by 27% by using the new sensor technology, and by more than 200% in black-and-white," continued Hinkel. This results in more detailed images and allows for the camera to be positioned further away from the monitored areas. This allows users to benefit from increased flexibility when it comes to planning and installation.

The new S15, D15 and V15 camera models are equipped with the new, unique MxActivitySensor for camera-integrated video motion analysis. Once configured, the free-of-charge software can distinguish between relevant and irrelevant movements, drastically reducing the number of false alarms.

The new models equipped with 5 Megapixel sensors are all available as of immediately over authorized MOBOTIX distributors and partners.

Asia Update: Keda bringing vertical solutions to global security theater

Editor / Provider: Hayden Hsu, asmag.com | Updated: 5/22/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

There is no better “test bed” than China. With its land mass, population and security focus and budget, the country is a perfect breeding ground for security solution developers and providers, especially with large-scale networked systems. Here is one success story in the making.

Headquartered in Suzhou, China as a subsidiary of Keda Communications, Keda Technology has come a long way since its establishment in 1995 as a telecommunication and video conferencing system specialist and 2005 IPO in Singapore. With its 2012 revenue exceeding US$160 million and work force of 3,000+, the company is chomping at the bit to take its fine-tuned vertical solutions abroad, for government and MNC users that are looking for tried-and-tested quality HD surveillance video to tackle their security and management headaches.

Thanks to its decade-long cultivation and experience between 1995 and 2004, Keda had honed its network communication capability through its countless video conferencing projects at government agencies and business entities across the country. According to John Xue, Executive Director for Keda Technology, it was also during that period that the company realized the significance of easy-to-use software interfaces and seamless technical support. “Owing to our earlier partnership with Philips, we have exceled at hardware manufacturing, video imaging processing, and frame/bit rate control and management. But it was through these domestic but nationwide projects that we learned to be especially mindful of the unique implementation and day-to-day requirements of system integrators and government/enterprise end users.”

After the “Safe City” initiative swept across and started to take root in China in 2007/2008, Keda got to demonstrate how its intelligent, interconnected IP cameras, NVRs and management platforms could help end users better react to constantly evolving site conditions at many more multisite projects. “We were fortunate to be given the many opportunities to evolve as well, to grow to be application-specific in how analytics and automated alerts can be deployed in various environments,” Xue shared. To date, 14 to 16 percent of Keda's annual turnover is earmarked for R&D endeavors.

Open Arms
To continue to drive innovation and scale new heights, Keda is eyeing the cloud and global market. “We have an open-door, open-arms policy. With cloud-based applications growing exponentially, we want to collaborate with as many technology partners as possible because we can't do it all alone. We will also continue to work on optimizing image processing and bandwidth allocation management so that better and sooner preventive and preemptive measures can be taken.”

Keda is now active throughout Asia (from Japan and Korea all the way to Southeast Asia), the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Africa, and continues to look for capable and compatible distribution partners. “The security market is highly dynamic yet with a much longer selling cycle, so there is a lot more unpredictability. We are taking the time to groom our partners, grow our development and distribution networks, and hone our branding and sales management efforts,” Xue expressed.

Keda is ready and open for business — are you?

Dutch supermarket chain tackles losses with HD system

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 5/22/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Albert Heijn Veldhoven, part of the Ahold group of international supermarkets, has rolled out an IP-based HD video surveillance solution comprising of 16-HD cameras and 32-channel NVR, and VMS at its store in Veldhoven, Netherlands, to reduce and prevent shrinkage while improving the overall retail experience. The system installed by technical integrator, Hollander Techniek, within two days is the first Idis plug-and-play HD video surveillance system to be implemented in Netherlands. Like many retailers, Albert Heijn wanted to use video surveillance and recording to limit the impact of shoplifting, deliver on their promise to prevent crime and improve the shopping experience for customers by analysing pedestrian routes and footfall, key factors in the selection of the video surveillance solution.

With 227 franchise stores in the Netherlands, Albert Heijn is renowned for quality and affordable everyday groceries. For over 10 years, Albert Heijn Veldhoven has relied on Idis OEM systems, and when the time came for an upgrade the supermarket security team decided to look into Idis plug-and-play HD video surveillance system.
 
The store surveillance system utilizes multi-spot monitors and a client PC with Idis VMS. The security team is now benefiting from full HD quality that is crucial in the recognition and detection of suspicious behaviour to drive down shrinkage. The security manager and cafeteria is equipped with 42 inch monitors displaying live camera views simultaneously and in real-time to provide a 360-degree view of the entire store.

“The Albert Heijn Veldhoven security team has quickly adjusted with little training, while benefitting from HD picture quality and simultaneous live view and record across multiple cameras,” said Carlo Kuijer, CEO, Benelux, Idis. “This allows the team to support their objectives to prevent and detect crime while improving the overall shopping experience for customers.” The initial reactions from the end-users and the installer was positive and Idis looks forward to working with Albert Heijn to further roll-out the HD video surveillance system across Benelux.

Identive discusses PIV impact on the private sector

Editor / Provider: Identive Group | Updated: 5/22/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Since launching the HSPD-12 (Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors) secure credentialing program in 2004, millions of smart cards have been issued to US Government employees, military personnel and contractors. As a result, the government has streamlined and standardized the process used to vet employees and process their identities and credentials, and has defined and implemented a standardized, single credential to grant access to physical and logical security applications.

Government employees across all federal agencies now are required to use a single, secure photo ID badge to authenticate themselves, gain access to doors, gates and portals at government buildings, carry biometric and other information in a secure manner, log on to their computers and mobile devices, digitally sign emails and encrypt disks, files and emails.

With this US Government initiative, for the first time, standards were applied to all elements of the identity, credential and access management ecosystem of an organization. Developed by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), the Federal Information Processing Standard 201 (FIPS 201) governs the way in which federal employees provide their identities, and the workflows associated with capturing personnel data, processing credential requests, producing the credential and getting it to the employee are strictly defined. Following the FIPS 201-mandated process provides a high level of trust in the credential, which allows it to be accepted across different agencies, and to perform more functions than a typical, locally-issued proximity credential could be trusted with. These credentials are commonly referred to as PIV (Personal Identity Verification) cards. As of today, millions of PIV cards have been issued to federal workers, including both military and non-military government employees and contractors.

To produce the high volumes of smart cards the government requires for its PIV credentials, a number of agencies, including the GSA (U.S General Services Administration), established sophisticated identity and smart card management systems that not only print visually secure ID badges, but also encode the smart card chips with agency- and personnel-specific data, biometric information, encryption keys and digital certificates.

Government standards also aid enterprises
It took a lot of work by the government and industry, but the FIPS 201 standard that supports HSPD-12 has made real the promise of trusted, enterprise-wide credentialing and multiple applications on a single credential. Success at the federal agency level has stirred interest among government contractors and commercial enterprises, many of whom share the problems as the government –identifying all employees, and securely managing those identities and their credentials across multiple sites.

There are various forms of FIPS 201 credentials that are available to private and commercial organizations, allowing them to benefit from the research and data models that have been implemented and shown to be effective by the federal government. Examples include TWIC (Transport Worker Identity Card), use by workers at maritime facilities and ports, FRAC (First Responder Access Card) for police, fire and other local government emergency response personnel, and PIV-I (PIV-Interoperable Cards) for non-government personnel that may need to have access to US Government sites and data as if they were government personnel.

And there are CIV Cards. The Commercial Identity Verification Card provides a model for technical compatibility with PIV-based systems deployed by the federal government. The CIV card doesn't require the same level of identity proofing or issuance workflow required to obtain a PIV card, but does provide a framework that non-government organizations can use to issue very secure, multifunction smart card credentials. Technically, PIV-I and CIV are virtually identical; the difference lies in the issuing process. CIV issuers must follow the same enrollment, verification, separation of duties and full background checks that the federal government follows to issue a PIV card. CIV holders are then considered vetted to the same standards as a government employee or contractor, and their credentials are handled with the same levels of security as a government-issued card.

CIV cards for smaller organizations – issued through the cloud
But what if instead of millions, your organization consists of thousands, or maybe hundreds of employees? While high assurance, smart-card based credentialing programs would provide more secure physical and logical security tools and policies, the investment of hundreds of thousands of dollars required to implement such a card management system would likely be a challenge.

This is where cloud-based credentialing, or “identity as a service” can play a role. These services allow users to bypass the smart card infrastructure investment and to create, manage and distribute secure, certificate-based smart card credentials such as CIV cards through the cloud. ‘Pay-as-you-go' models offers one fixed price so you pay only for the users you need, as you need them, eliminating the complexity and operating costs associated with managing and deploying an internal smart card identity project. This approach offers significant savings by avoiding upfront capital and ongoing management costs of replacing, installing, maintaining and managing onsite servers and systems.

Typical identity as a service solutions allow an organization to define its own credentialing workflows, badge designs and encoding data for physical access, logical access, digital signing and encryption. Badges can be printed by the service in bulk, one at a time, or even at the customer's facility, if they prefer to have printers and the associated supplies and support mechanisms on site. Remote employees can log onto the service, follow the predetermined workflows, and create their own badges, which are then mailed to them in a secure envelope.

By taking the complexity out of designing smart card data models, encryption, encoding, printing and issuance, cloudbased credentialing services make true, secure smart card functionality and deployments available to all organizations.

Outside the U.S., there are similar programs starting or already going on all over the world that use smart card-based credentials issued via the cloud. The underlying technology that creates secure, trusted identity credentials is gaining momentum. And we can be curious what the future will bring.

UK boutique hotel operator rolls out standardized surveillance at 14 locations

Editor / Provider: Samsung Techwin | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Residential & Consumer

Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotels, a luxury hotel franchise in UK with 14 distinctive hotels ranging from bijou boutique to large-scale luxury, located in London, Heathrow, Guildford and Manchester, recently upgraded its more than 700-camera analog video surveillance system with a new standardized analog system consisting of Samsung Techwin cameras and 40 DVRs. The hotel has entered a long term single source supply relationship agreement with Samsung, to equip all its hotels with Samsung video surveillance solution.

The safety of guests and staff has always been the hotel's top priority and Radisson has never hesitated to invest in the latest video surveillance technology. However, this resulted in many different types of cameras and recording devices from various manufacturers being deployed across its hotels. Mohamed Elsebahy, Group CCTV Manager, held a strong opinion that significant operational advantages could be achieved by a process of standardization. The hotel researched whether it would be possible to single source all the components of a video surveillance system from one manufacturer, said Elesbahy.

The starting point for the detailed research as to what products would best match Radisson's demanding requirements was the video recording solution. Although images from the 700 plus domes installed across the 14 hotels can be viewed live at control rooms located at Heathrow and London, the key objective has always been to record activity captured by the cameras so that any incidents or suspicious activity can be investigated, and if appropriate, video evidence can be retrieved and passed onto the police for prosecution purposes.

Samsung's DVR, which can simultaneously record real time images across all of its 16 channels at 4CIF was chosen after a four month trial, however, the hotel required certain adjustments. “We identified from our operational perspective some shortcomings in the list of features available in the VMS that is provided with the DVR,” said Nick Kalsi, Technology Consultant of the hotel. “What we felt was missing was the ability to name the DVRs, make brightness adjustments and also to manage the printing of images via the software.” Samsung customized the DVRs to meet the hotel's specifications.

Images from the 700 domes are recorded at different frame rates depending on the type and level of activity anticipated at each camera location and all of the images are stored for 30 days. So far 200 units have been replaced with either IR internal domes, WDR indoor domes or with vandal-resistant external domes. The remaining 500 units will be replaced in the near future as part of a phased upgrade program.

"Working closely with a single manufacturer has proved to be a great success as they have been able to provide objective advice on the correct camera model for every location,” said Mohamed Elsebahy. Local police officers have also commented that the video surveillance system at Heathrow hotel is one of the most reliable of many hotels on the A4 strip. Radisson is in the process of testing Samsung's NVRs with a view to migrating from an analog based system to a networked IP solution.

Idis launches bundled VMS

Editor / Provider: Idis | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Idis has announced, during Ifsec International, that it will bundle Idis Center VMS at no extra cost, as part of its DirectIP HD video surveillance solutions. The bundled offering provides customers with a complete VMS to install, configure, integrate and operate DirectIP solutions without licensing fees or complexity.

“VMS has too often become synonymous with cost and complexity within the industry. By bundling IdisCenter we are offering customers a true one-stop-shop solution without the need for expert IT or network skills, nor the cost involved in buying and renewing software licences,” noted Brian Song, MD of Idis.

Idis Center provides customers with plug-and-play management software to install and operate network cameras, NVRs and servers. Through an intuitive user interface very similar to that of traditional analogue systems, users are able to view live video and playback simultaneously. Idis Center further provides real-time event notification to improve incident response times, as well as a panic recording feature. The system provides easy and fast installation and configuration of up to 1024 devices and enables hassle-free maintenance via remote software upgrades.

Song commented, “This further builds on the Idis commitment to deliver simple, cost effective end-to-end HD video surveillance through our DirectIP solutions, all built on the quality and performance Idis customers the world over have come to expect.”

Milestone signs on UK distributor Oprema

Editor / Provider: Oprema | Updated: 5/21/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Oprema have secured the rights to distribute Milestone Systems open platform IP VMS as part of Milestone's strategic decision to work with specialist IP security suppliers in the UK. Milestone XProtect software has been keenly welcomed by Oprema's existing client base, and it is anticipated that this collaboration will further new business interest for the Cardiff based security distributor.

Oprema have been championing IP technology for a number of years, and it is for this reason that Milestone has added them to its exclusive UK distributor list. Oprema will offer not only the full suite of software products but will be hosting Milestone Certified and Milestone Professional training courses as the only authorised independent Milestone Systems training center in the UK. The training courses will cater for first time users through to experienced users looking to broaden their knowledge. The training will also include configuration, set up and use of supported hardware.

Milestone was Oprema's desired partner for IP video surveillance software because it is scalable and easy to use. Customers will be able to purchase software licences only or as part of a custom built server solution offered by Oprema.

Oprema's MD Matthew Epps commented, “We are delighted to be offering such a high-end and well regarded product as Milestone XProtect with our IP solutions. The agreement is a significant one for us, and shows how much of an impact Oprema are making in the market place, in moving the trade towards IP by offering cost effective packages as well as high-end solutions to suit any budget and application. Milestone fits in perfectly with its complete range of software options from XProtect Go right through to XProtect Corporate.”

Glenn Fletcher, Country Manager UK & Ireland for Milestone, adds: “Milestone Systems are happy to have Oprema on board as a new UK distributor. They will be able to help with technical training and server designs, leveraging the Microsoft and IP skills that they already have in house. Oprema are also our gateway into Wales as a distributor, which was another key reason for selecting them to be part of our expanding Milestone UK team of partners. We aim to grow together in the coming years as the Milestone open platform VMS approach continues to be embraced in the UK.”

Since the agreement was signed in January 2013, Oprema have successfully won a number of projects with Milestone VMS pre-loaded on Oprema's in-house manufactured servers. This is ensuring that the partnership is a winning combination for UK installers by offering a cost-effective solution with the highest level technology available on the market today.

The next killer app for NFC will not be mobile payments

Editor / Provider: Smart Card Alliance | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

With half a billion NFC-enabled handsets expected to hit the market in the next year, according to an ABI Research report released in March 2013, industry experts agreed that the major first step to broad NFC adoption has been accomplished. But discussion and debate continued as to what the killer app will be to get the technology to take off. Experts concurred in a recent meeting that the next NFC application might not even be mobile payments anymore.

Applications like wine tracking and device pairing that fulfill unmet needs and simplify activities may be the “world-winning NFC solutions,” according to Koichi Tagawa of Sony and Chairman of the NFC Forum. In another example, Tagawa noted that Japanese airlines using NFC can board a 450-person plane in only 15 minutes, as opposed to the standard boarding process for a 150-person plane without NFC in 40 minutes.

Other experts agreed that loyalty programs and offers are great first steps for consumers to use NFC technology.

Lynne Barton, VP of Marketing with Jamba Juice, which has been participating in the Isis Mobile Wallet pilots, said that NFC creates “more meaningful and personal conversations with customers.” She said that she “sees a future with NFC, but it will take consumers a little bit of time to get there,” adding that coupons and offers are “the gateway” to get consumers using the technology.

Lydia Martinez, Store Marketing Specialist at Whole Foods, concurred that “for the short term, loyalty and the value of the couponing is the gateway for people.” She said that the appeal of NFC is to help “drive brand and drive loyalty while giving customers a faster experience.” Martinez described an upcoming holistic marketing campaign where NFC-enabled coupons and loyalty will work with in-store displays and social media to promote local farmers and producers.

NFC should “create, communicate and deliver value to customers,” said Mohamed Awad of Broadcom and Vice Chairman of the NFC Forum. He said that creating value for NFC is about “simplifying with the way we act with the more and more sophisticated set of microcontrollers around us.” To this end, Awad described several use cases where organizations are communicating the value of products to customers by differentiating with NFC, including smart home appliances, interactive games, travel services, opt-in magazine ads, and even tombstones.

Other experts discussed mobile security features that could allow consumers to become more confident in using their devices for more sensitive transactions. Sebastian Taveau, Validity's CTO, described a vision of fingerprint biometrics providing consumers with a fast and secure way to unlock the NFC applications on their mobile devices. Citing that 90 percent of user-generated passwords are vulnerable to hacking due to being stored centrally in the cloud, Siva Narendra, Tyfone CEO said, “Consumers demand convenience and expect security.” Narendra unveiled Tyfone's new Connected Smart Card that enables the secure storage and use of multiple IDs that can be placed in a microSD, a key-chain, an iPhone case, or a wearable device.

But while speakers and panelists didn't reach consensus on what the so-called “killer app” for NFC will be, speakers conveyed the great potential for NFC including mobile payments in the longer term. When asked the question “Is NFC dead?” compared to alternate technologies such as cloud payments, Glenbrook Partners Consultant Allen Weinberg stressed that all these technologies are still in the early days and it is too soon to make judgments on what mobile commerce technologies will be the winners and losers. “At the end of the day, we don't have a widespread, commercialized anything yet,” he said.