Faq
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Starlight cameras are the latest products security companies are adding to their product line-ups, each camera boasting the most comprehensive ability to make darkness visible. While low-light surveillance capabilities have been around on the market for some time, starlight camera technology is redefining low-light surveillance to new levels. Pitbull Security Solutions Ltd spoke to manufacturers to discuss this technology and its applications in the security industry.
Stronger Sensors, Higher Image Quality
In the second half of last year, Sony unveiled its Starvis sensor technology designed for industrial applications, including security surveillance. The sensors make high-quality images possible in very challenging light conditions by increasing light sensitivity up to 2000 mV or more per 1 µm2. Many security companies have wasted no time incorporating this technology into their starlight range.
China-based security camera manufacturer Qihan is one such company. According to Ten Wu, CIS and European Regional Manager at Qihan, the company has worked closely with Sony, in addition to investing in research toward the development of its starlight range. Qihan is by no means the only Asian manufacturer with a starlight range. Tiandy and Korea-based CNB Technology also carry a comprehensive range of starlight cameras for customers to select from, while Nextchip has plans to incorporate starlight technology into its WDR range.
During challenging lighting
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Core to starlight camera technology is excellent light sensitivity, resulting in the ability to capture quality images under conditions with very little available light. Bosch’s starlight range, for example, includes a camera that promises to capture highly detailed 1080p monochrome images in low light levels of 0.000275 lux, and the ability to capture moving objects in high resolution with its high frame rate of 30 frames per second. Starlight cameras are equipped with the technology to slow down the cameras’ electronic shutter, when lighting conditions become challenging, to capture more light in order for the cameras to continue recording in color.
Hardware And Software Enhance Camera Performance
According to Niko Xie, Overseas Sales Director at Tiandy, performance is based on both hardware and software, requiring “special sensor and special algorithms” to capture images in challenging light conditions.
A qualified starlight camera should be able to provide clearer image with more color detail than normal cameras. Cameras are capable of maintaining color images for longer and provide better night vision when settings are switched to black and white. “Our starlight products not only use starlight sensors, but also our algorithm to enhance image quality,” said Xie on Tiandy’s starlight range.
As security companies raise the bar on security camera performance, they did not forget to apply the latest technology to their starlight range. Hence, starlight cameras from most manufacturers promise simple installation procedures and are further equipped with video analytics to enhance performance and data management, such as noise reduction, intelligent video analysis and remote access. Bosch’s starlight range, for example, provides high definition color images in the dark through the combination of starlight technology and intelligent auto exposure, which enables the camera to automatically adapt to changing light conditions.
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| Starlight cameras’ clearer images and color detail make them ideal for low-light environments such as bars and clubs
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Starlight Camera Applications For Low Light And No Light Environments
Starlight cameras can be applied in a wide range of situations and environments. Several environments stand to benefit from the increased security starlight cameras could achieve.
Places with low light or no light, for example, in a bar or club can benefit from starlight technology. The illumination is weak and under such conditions, normal cameras would have already switched to black-and-white image capturing, but starlight cameras would continue to capture clear color images, explains Xie.
In addition, Wu adds that current surveillance systems could also be updated with starlight cameras to tremendously improve image quality at a similar cost compared to conventional cameras.
The security industry can definitely expect more to come on starlight cameras and their associated technology.
Where more traditional standard definition (SD)analog CCTV cameras wouldn’t do the job, people needed to start looking to high definition (HD) security cameras. With HDSDI being a flop for the industry, IP cameras have been almost unopposed in the HD market since it began.HDCVI cameras are becoming much more commonly known about and sought after these days. With this new and now proven technology growing in popularity, it’s caught people who only used to consider IP cameras potentially looking in another direction. Rather than a versus, think of this more as a comparison.
Camera Resolution
We’re going to base this on available resolutions, as well as overall image quality. To start off, HDCVI and IP security cameras are both available in 1.3 megapixels (720p) and 2 megapixels (1080p). While these may be the lowest of the HD resolutions, it’s night and day next to analog CCTV cameras. At these resolutions, both images look very true to their marked resolutions, but you will notice a crisper and more true to color image with IP cameras. Now, if you never had these two side by side, you’d never know the difference, but fair is fair.
After 1.3 and 2 megapixels, HDCVI cameras drop off the map where IP cameras are easily accessible and readily available up to 12 megapixels. HDCVI is still relatively new in the scheme of things so we’d like to give it the benefit of the doubt; whether or not 2 megapixels will be a limitation of this technology is still up for debate.
Camera Frame Rates
At 1.3 and 2 megapixels, there are both HDCVI and IP cameras accessible with frame rates as high as thirty frames per second (FPS) to achieve real-time recording. You need to be careful with IP cameras after 2 megapixels; if you really need real-time recording, pay special attention to the cameras frame rate.
Cable Type and Cable Run
HDCVI cameras are HD analog cameras and use traditional RG59 cable (aka: RG59/U, Siamese cable, BNC cable, etc…); more specifically, they use solid copper RG59 cable. Along with having coaxial cable here for video, you also have your DC cable for power. In order to connect your HDCVI cameras to both your DVR and power supply(ies), you will need to use BNC connectores (twist-on, crimp, compression) and DC power terminals. HDCVI cameras also have an incredible video transmission distance of up to 1600 feet, but still require power within 300 feet if using a 12V DC power supply box.
Of course, the power distance can be easily increased by using a 24VAC power source but a 24VAC to12VDC power converter will be required at each camera end to down-convert to 12VDC which is required by almost all HDCVI cameras at this time.
For IP cameras, you’ll be using Cat5e or Cat6 network cable. Either one of these cables is fine; just know that at this current time, nothing requires anything greater than Cat5e. Since most IP cameras are now PoE (power over Ethernet), the only other thing you’ll need are RJ45 connectors to attach your cameras to your network/power supply. If you find yourself with IP cameras that are not PoE, you will need to run additional DC cable and use power terminals at one or both ends depending on your power supply. Non-PoE camera will be limited to 328 feet for video and 300 feet for power. PoE IP cameras will be limited to 328 feet for both video and power, but that can be augmented with as many as two PoE extenders to extend this distance to nearly 1000 feet.
Power Supplies
HDCVI and non-PoE IP cameras will require either an individual power supply, or power distribution box. You will use either use DC power terminals to attach your DC cable to the cameras individual power supply, or you will directly attach your DC cable to the screw down terminals in your power distribution box if you have one.
IP Cameras with PoE capability will be powered via your single length of Cat5e/Cat6 cable by a PoE network switch. While providing power to your cameras, the network switch will also serve to connect your cameras to your network.
Video Recorders
Both camera types, HDCVI and IP, are capable of recording to standalone video recorders. HDCVI is paired with the HDCVI DVR, while IP is paired with the NVR. The DVR and NVR are virtually the same thing as far as build and features are concerned. The difference between them is how your cameras may connect to them.
With an HDCVI system, your coaxial cable will be hardwired right to the back of the DVR. IP camera systems can mimic this setup, but only if the NVR possesses PoE ports on the back of it. The alternative it to connect all of your cameras and NVR to a network switch before connecting it to your network (router/modem). At this point, your cameras and NVR will be on the same network, but your cameras will now have to be manually added to the NVR using the graphic user interface (GUI). This will also mean needing to use the IP configuration tool to pre-configure each IP camera.
Cost Difference
We know this is where we’re ending, but for most of us, this is where we start. The simple fact is that even though IP cameras have been dropping in cost considerably, HDCVI cameras are still cheaper. This is a pretty heated issue to discuss among professionals, but like we said, fair is fair.
Not only are the cameras cheaper, but HDCVI DVRs are also cheaper than the NVR needed for IP cameras, although not as noticeably this time. You may find yourself saving a hundred dollars per camera by switching to HDCVI but only saving about a hundred dollars total when you reach your most expensive items; video recorders.
Cables and connectors are where IP cameras redeem themselves. Cat5e cable is easily less than half the cost of solid copper RG59 cable; just keep in mind that RG59 is outdoor rated and most Cat5e is not. In addition to that, RJ45 connectors cost around thirty cents per piece at most while HDCVI cameras will require BNC connectors for one to three dollars per connector and power terminals at about two dollars apiece.
Wrap Up
No one came here to say which is better. In this case, we just feel that it’s more important for people to understand some of the basic differences in order to determine whether HDCVI or IP is right for them. We haven’t touched on individual features yet, but…coming soon?
Do HDTVI and AHD can connect with any type of DVR?
Answer: The answer is no. Each of analog high definition solution has its own format and specification, it must work with its own DVRs. The only solution that’s compatible with all formats is 960H. After testing, it was confirmed that different-brand HDTVI and AHD cameras can work with their respective DVRs, as long as the same format is used.
Will HDCVI and HDTVI completely replace 960H?
Answer: The answer is no. In terms of what the 720p HD-over-coaxial solution can offer, it is indeed very similar to 960H image quality. However, 960H products still stand out since they are offered and supported by most of the current camera vendors.
Can the HDTVI DVR and HDCVI DVR support 720p and 1080p simultaneously?
Answer: The answer is no. Test results show that HDTVI, HDCVI and AHD each can support 720p ad 1080p cameras and corresponding 720p and 1080p DVRs. The issue right now is whether the same DVR can record 720P and 1080P videos at the same time, no matter which technology is employed. This still needs to be confirmed.
HD-over-coaxial solution prevails in analog video surveillance applications. Alf Chang – the a&s Consultant published his studies about the different analog high definition technologies including 960H, HD-CVI, ccHDtv, HD-MDI, HD-SDI and HD-TVI. Multiple HD-over-coaxial technologies coexist, inevitably brings some confusions to end-users, security installer, security integrators.
In this article we aim to offer HD-over-coaxial information which based on Alf Chang’s studies. Apparently, IP-based video surveillance is becoming the dominant way of offering high definition video and convenience for remote monitoring. “The overarching view in the security industry right now is that IP, which employs a network infrastructure and offers HD video, will one day replace analog solutions, which have defined video surveillance for half a century. For analog players, who are seeing declines in sales and revenue, they must find ways to regain their former dominance in the industry. ” quoted lines from Alf Chang.
Although the IP surveillance trend is inevitable and unstoppable, the shipment of analog video surveillance equipment still account for over 60 percent of the global market. We are still seeing the strong growth for analog video surveillance products from emerging markets especially in India, Vietnam, Nigeria, Kenya. The latest HD-over-coaxial solutions include AHD, ccHDtv, HD-CVI, HD-MDI, HD-SDI, HD-TVI, all these new technologies support high definition video transmitting over traditional coaxial cable. Alf Chang wrote that to be called HD-over-coaxial, the technology should meet the following six basic requirements:
- High quality images which have good clarity, true color reproduction, as well as high signal filtering, noise reduction
- Must transmit signal through coaxial cable, as HD-over-coaxial is claimed as a breakthrough technology, it must transmit signals for a longer distance
- The video recording/storage equipment must be back compatible with the 960H format, as well as the future compatibility with analog splitters and matrix systems must be considered.
- Video transmission should not be subject to no compression quality loss, no video latency.
- Easy to use and operate, supports hassle-free configurations on both front-end and back-end devices.
- Low-cost, but high quality solution
HD-TVI AND AHD BECOME POPULAR HD-OVER-COAX SOLUTIONS
Among the latest analog high definition technologies, the HD-TVI and AHD are quite new. HD-TVI was developed by USA company – Techpoint. This new analog HD technology has been deployed into Hikvision’s analog security products. Hikvision takes advantage of HD-TVI technology in order to against Dahua HD-CVI. At IFSEC 2015 London (Global security exhibition), Techpoint introduced its HD-TVI 2.0 version, now the HD-TVI supports 720p 30/25fps, 720p 60/50fps, 1080p 30/25fps high definition video transmission. Furthermore, HD-TVI receiver is back compatible with 960H format, which means the HD-TVI DVR can receive analog signals from analog 960H video cameras.
AHD stands for analog high definition, AHD is based on AHD standard which developed by Korean chip-set manufacturer – NextChip. AHD is able to deliver uncompressed 720p / 1080p high definition video over Cat 75-3 coaxial cable, and transmission distance up to 500 meters. This technology breakthrough the current HD video transmission limitation (<= 100 meters), it can achieve low-cost, long range, no video latency, high efficient megapixel resolution video transmission.
Both HD-TVI and AHD are open standard, which allows hundreds of manufacturers develop analog security cameras based on these technologies. Additionally, compared with other technologies, the cost for HD-TVI and AHD is extreme low, end-users can enjoy the analog high definition video surveillance with same price as traditional analog camera.
MATURE ANALOG HIGH DEFINITION SOLUTION – DAHUA HDCVI
Dahua developed and promoted the high-definition composite video interface (HD-CVI) which based on megapixel CMOS image sensors with its own in-house image signal processor (ISP). Based on the transmission technology of HD images over coaxial cables, the HD-CVI technology is a technology that captures high-definition progressive scan images, and transmits over coaxial cable in long distance.
On November 15th, 2012, Dahua released HD-CVI version 1.00 which specified the format: 720p (1280×720) and 1080p (1920×1080), which is similar to 700 TVL and 750 TVL.
HD-TVI, AHD, HD-CVI share one thing in common: different from 960H that utilizes CCD image sensor, HD-CVI and HD-TVI, as well as AHD adopt the megapixel resolution progressive scan CMOS image sensor or Sony Exmor CMOS sensor. The megapixel CMOS image sensor is able to capture images with high definition resolution. The widely used CMOS image sensors are from Aptina, Sony, Omnivision, Pixelplus. Additionally, all of them use point-to-point transmission of coaxial cables to produce uncompressed megapixel analog video images, without delay and without compromising image quality. HD-CVI and HD-TVI, as well as AHD can transmit HD analog video up to 500 meters over traditional video coaxial cable, breaking the distance limit of HD analog video transmission.
CCHDTV (HIGH DEFINITION CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEVISION)
ccHDtv (High definition closed-circuit television) is a new high definition video surveillance solution. The core concept of ccHDtv is utilizing multiple video technologies to transmit high definition signal over coaxial cable, or even transmit wirelessly; in real test, ccHDtv solution can support 1080p 30fps or 1080p 60fps video over a 5C2V/RG6 coaxial cable.
ccHDtv is developed by iTE Tech, a Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturer. This solution utilizes DTV technologies including DVB-T, ISDB-T, and ATSC standards and solves bandwidth and storage problems faced by traditional analog CCTVs in the past. From market share survey, ccHDtv is not a popular solution, because only few companies adopt this solution into their analog HD products.
HD-MDI (HIGH DEFINITION MEDIUM DEPENDENT INTERFACE)
HD-MDI stands for high definition medium dependent interface, which is a completely different analog HD solution. Based on twisted pair, HD-MDI transmits high definition audio and video using a structure that is similar to traditional analog video surveillance system. The HD-MDI products include HD-MDI cameras, HD-MDI repeater, HD-MDI DVR, HD-MDI Optical Device, HD-MDI matrix, and HD-MDI audio video capture cards.
Opposite to coaxial cable, HD-MDI uses an unshielded twisted pair (UTP) to transmit uncompressed and no latency high definition video. Currently, the HD-MDI supports 720p / 1080p 30fps high definition video formats. This transmission method also allows HD-MDI to transmit video over Cat 5 or Cat 6 network cables without additional cost on cabling and switches.
What are advantages of HD-MDI?
- High definition video without compression, high clarity, no video latency
- Pure physical layer, no operating system, low power consumption, stability much better than IP camera
- Point-to-point video transmission, high stability and reliability
- HD video signal can transmit to HD-MDI encoder for video displaying, switching, analistic
- Using the unshielded twisted pair (Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cables) to transmit signal, no additional wiring cost
HD PREDECESSOR – SONY 960H
Since 960H emerged in 2011, Sony introduced the concept of Effio which includes some new CCD image sensors and Effio ISP that enhance the quality of CCTV. Before the HDCVI and HDTVI, as well as AHD, Sony 960H solution dominated the analog surveillance market. Consequently, Nextchip and Samsung developed its own CCD image sensors and image signal processors to join the competition. In the past, the majority of analog video cameras adopt CCD image sensors from manufacturers such as Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp.
The combination of Effio ISPs and CCD image sensors can produce over 650TVL of horizontal resolution, even up to 750 TVL which is closed to high-definition resolution. Compared the past traditional analog video, the Effio offered 2D and 3D digital noise reduction, wide dynamic range, automatic scene detection, digital image stabilization etc video enhancing technologies.
Without having to alter existing deployments of cables, the solution is regarded as the most viable way of reaching high-resolution images for analog cameras. The solution has postponed the demise of analog surveillance systems and has prevented it from being phased out of market too soon.
COMPARISON BETWEEN DIFFERENT HD-OVER-COAXIAL TECHNOLOGIES
What’s the difference between IP camera and HDTVi? Which solution is better between HDTVI and AHD? Every day, our technical department receives these questions. Since each of solution has prons and cons, it’s difficult to give you a simple answer. To choose your ideal solution for video surveillance, you may spend the time to analysis your needs from different perspectives. In order to know each solution advantages and disadvantages, you can check the following comparison table.
| Technology | 960Н | HDCVI | HDTVI | AHD | HD-SDI | IP |
| Standard | open | private | open | open | open | open |
| Chipset | CCD+DSP | CMOS+ISP | CMOS+ISP | CMOS+ISP | CMOS+ISP | CCD/CMOS+DSP |
| Signal type |
analog | analog | analog | analog | digital | digital |
| Image Quality |
rite | very good | very good | very good | excellent | very good |
| Resolution | 700TVL | 720P/1080P | 720P/1080P | 720P/1080P | 1080P | 720P/1080Р and more |
| Coax infrastructure compatibility | high | high | high | high | medium | converter is required |
| Hybrid real-time mode (CCTV+HDCCTV+IP) | no | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
| Solution difficulty |
medium | medium | medium | low | medium | high |
| Max line distance without repeater, m
(cable 5С-2V) |
200 cable 5С-2V, РК75-5 |
500 cable 5С-2V, РК75-5 |
500 cable 5С-2V, РК75-5 |
500 cable 5С-2V, РК75-5 |
150 cable 5С-2V, РК75-5 |
150 cable Cat.5 |
| Cable type |
coax | coax | coax | any coax | coax | twisted pair |
| Cable quality requirements | medium | medium | medium | low | high | low |
| Signal | CVBS | CVBS | CVBS | CVBS | SDI | IP |
| Compression/losses | no | no | no | no | no | yes |
| Latencies | no | no | no | no | no | yes |
| Video recorder |
960H DVR | HDCVI DVR | HDTVI DVR | AHD DVR | SDI DVR | NVR |
| Maintenance difficulty |
low | low | low | low | low | high |
| Solution cost |
low | medium | low | low | high | high |
Implementation of hidden cameras in public places does not prohibit Canada. Inside the Canadian law is constantly a debate, which reveal how legitimate CCTV installation in the specific case. We should not forget that according to the Criminal Code, recorded footage can be used as evidence in litigation, since they have proof of the crime.
Speaking about the legality of video surveillance, there is a law that clearly specifies organization, as well as private individuals involved in operational-search operations, can use in their work equipment covert video surveillance. Based on the foregoing, the legality of the use of video surveillance in a case is confirmed. Referring to the Constitution, a citizen has the right to complete privacy, and to collect information about an individual, its further distribution and use without his consent is prohibited. Due to this contradiction in the law only a thin line that divides the privacy.
When a hidden surveillance in Canada used by law enforcement agencies, as well as organizations involved in private investigation, they cannot publish distributed footage. However, there is no law that would let individuals make covert video surveillance. In our time, is difficult to avoid being a victim of covert video surveillance. This kind of monitoring can be done almost anywhere. No one can be insured against third party interference in private life through online video. Records that are the result of covert video surveillance may become a weapon of blackmail.
Today, the popular trend has been the installation of tracking equipment in offices. Employers are justified by the fact that such control helps to establish how well the employee performs his duties. Based on this article, the employer believes that the hidden show is entirely justified, since it provides an opportunity to identify violators of the workflow.
Some employers in the employment contract prescribed that the video surveillance. Employee, by signing such an agreement, automatically agrees to it, thereby affirming the legality of installing security cameras. Yes, and will not prevent post a sign, informing employees and visitors to the office of the recording. In this case, video surveillance is no longer hidden. If the video is done without the knowledge of the observation object, such a fact can pull a ship’s lawsuit.
Moral aspect of covert video surveillance is a matter of conscience of everyone, but the legal aspects must be set at a level of legal acts.
Huge selection of CCTV cameras available on the market, and from their proper choice will depend on what you will create on-screen security system. When buying you can rely on a good salesperson and pick camera on his advice basis. But on the other hand, often companies do not sell what client really needs. Instead they would sell surplus and unwanted equipment, and products at more expensive price. If you do not like when you were ripped-off, you will have at least slightly to make sense of what are the surveillance cameras and what parameters they are characterized.
For ease of installation, video surveillance cameras made with different design. Common type of surveillance cameras are conventional cameras. They are installed with brackets on horizontal surfaces such as ceilings. To install security cameras in outdoor, wet locations a protective outdoor housing need to be installed to protect camera from rain and cold weather conditions. CCTV cameras apart from its own primary function, they perform they work as scare away the villain.
Mini compact cameras may have a different shape (cylindrical, oval, rectangular, etc.). Some have size of a cigarette lighter. Often used where necessary to keep the interior design or not lure attention. Open-frame cameras in small sizes that can be embedded in a suitable enclosure. Most often used to conceal the installation, or installation of a thermal compact. Due to lack of housing, such cameras are cheaper than conventional.
Spy cameras often just look like a protection or smoke detector. And used mainly for cover video surveillance. Street cameras are designed for installation in street criteria. These cameras have a sealed enclosure with heater, sun visor, and often only built-in infrared light. The cost of street cameras consistently lower than the cost of similar conventional camera, placed in outdoor housing.
Resolution of a surveillance camera is measured in TV lines (TVL). Considered average resolution 420 TVL, and the highest resolution – 700 TVL. The highest resolution is required when necessary to distinguish small details, for example, license plate, numbers on the bills, the numbers of machines, etc.
Another important factor is light sensitivity (low light). It is measured in Lux and characterizes camera’s ability to “see” in insufficient light conditions. The smaller the Lux on the camera, the better picture gets at night. Black and white cameras have better sensitivity in the dark. Normal sensitivity for black and white cameras is 0.05 Lux, for the color it is 0.5 Lux.
With regard to certain vendors, it is considered that the European, South American and Japanese cameras are better than Asian (China, Korea, etc.). Although, the ratio of cost and quality of Taiwanese cameras is ideal for most suppliers.
Video cameras can be found virtually everywhere – in offices, shops, banks and restaurants. Some of the CCTV systems are not hidden, while others are designed and installed in such a way that it is almost impossible to notice them. Using security cameras reduces the risk of various offenses in a secured facility, since only the view of the installed cameras can prevent the plans of offenders. Also, the effective use of CCTV in the office helps significantly increase employee productivity and prevent theft. CCTV can be installed at any place convenient to customer: be it external or internal space. Outdoor cameras are usually installed at the entrance to the premises or on the protected object. The purpose of outdoor video surveillance is to prevent unauthorized entry into the territory of the protected object. Some street cameras are installed in special outdoor housing and equipped with heating, for continuous operation in the winter. Internal surveillance cameras, respectively, are mounted inside the premises, usually in the hallways, office buildings, warehouses and stores. Internal CCTV helps capture all the movements and control the work of employees. Hidden cameras are only can be detected by a professional. The advantage of the hidden video surveillance is the inability to circumvent or disable it. Most of the CCTV systems consist of cameras, cables and digital recording device. The modern market is abundant with a wide range of video surveillance systems. To make the right choices, you can explore all the available information on your own, or, to entrust the solution of this issue to experienced professionals. Design of CCTV system and the choice of its various components depends on customer requirements for camera system, the characteristics of the object and the installation location. High-quality images, which mainly depends on the camera and the video recording, provide the effective use of video surveillance cameras. Image quality depends on the camera matrix and the lens. The quality of the lens depends on its optics. Quality of the video depends on the camera matrix chip, because the matrix is transforming the image into the video. Matrixes are – 1, 2 / 3, 1 / 3, 1 / 4, the larger the size of the matrix, the better a picture. Also, when selecting the camera, the one should decide to use black and white or colored image. The advantage of color cameras is more precise picture on the monitor. The disadvantages of cameras with color image may include a high sensitivity to light. Black and white camera demand coverage and they can work well even in the dark. Color cameras have a higher resolution, and they better fix the small details and objects at a distance, however, the price is significantly higher. The signal from the cameras can be sent to a computer monitor and recorded onto the hard disk, if the computer boards has the special video card. If your computer is connected to the Internet or local network, the output image can be seen online or at another computer. For more effective maintenance of surveillance systems, it is recommended to use video servers and DVRs. They allow a greater control over the information and facilitate the search in video archives. Modern systems use high-tech CCTV equipment, which usually requires a professional care. The purpose of CCTV maintenance is to keep all the components in working condition, and to ensure a safe operation and performance of the system of its functions.
Video cameras can be found virtually everywhere – in offices, shops, banks and restaurants. Some of the CCTV systems are not hidden, while others are designed and installed in such a way that it is almost impossible to notice them. Using security cameras reduces the risk of various offenses in a secured facility, since only the view of the installed cameras can prevent the plans of offenders. Also, the effective use of CCTV in the office helps significantly increase employee productivity and prevent theft. CCTV can be installed at any place convenient to customer: be it external or internal space. Outdoor cameras are usually installed at the entrance to the premises or on the protected object. The purpose of outdoor video surveillance is to prevent unauthorized entry into the territory of the protected object. Some street cameras are installed in special outdoor housing and equipped with heating, for continuous operation in the winter. Internal surveillance cameras, respectively, are mounted inside the premises, usually in the hallways, office buildings, warehouses and stores. Internal CCTV helps capture all the movements and control the work of employees. Hidden cameras are only can be detected by a professional. The advantage of the hidden video surveillance is the inability to circumvent or disable it. Most of the CCTV systems consist of cameras, cables and digital recording device. The modern market is abundant with a wide range of video surveillance systems. To make the right choices, you can explore all the available information on your own, or, to entrust the solution of this issue to experienced professionals. Design of CCTV system and the choice of its various components depends on customer requirements for camera system, the characteristics of the object and the installation location. High-quality images, which mainly depends on the camera and the video recording, provide the effective use of video surveillance cameras. Image quality depends on the camera matrix and the lens. The quality of the lens depends on its optics. Quality of the video depends on the camera matrix chip, because the matrix is transforming the image into the video. Matrixes are – 1, 2 / 3, 1 / 3, 1 / 4, the larger the size of the matrix, the better a picture. Also, when selecting the camera, the one should decide to use black and white or colored image. The advantage of color cameras is more precise picture on the monitor. The disadvantages of cameras with color image may include a high sensitivity to light. Black and white camera demand coverage and they can work well even in the dark. Color cameras have a higher resolution, and they better fix the small details and objects at a distance, however, the price is significantly higher. The signal from the cameras can be sent to a computer monitor and recorded onto the hard disk, if the computer boards has the special video card. If your computer is connected to the Internet or local network, the output image can be seen online or at another computer. For more effective maintenance of surveillance systems, it is recommended to use video servers and DVRs. They allow a greater control over the information and facilitate the search in video archives. Modern systems use high-tech CCTV equipment, which usually requires a professional care. The purpose of CCTV maintenance is to keep all the components in working condition, and to ensure a safe operation and performance of the system of its functions.
There is a sobering statistic published by Toronto’s Neighborhood Scout web site indicating that citizens have a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a victim of a property crime. By comparison a person has a 1 in 223 chance of being victimized by a crime of violence – still too high a risk to ignore. In August of this year Canada’s largest West Coast city had an overall drop of 7% in crimes of all types reported but there were increases in gun crimes, rapes, theft, and home invasions. In addition to insurance, a citizen also needs pre-emptive protection and a way to let criminals know they are under CCTV surveillance and likely will be caught once the security camera system has recorded their actions.
In the past when a business or home needed to dissuade trespassers, a vigilant guard dog was present to scare them away with its barking. There were also inexpensive sensors that turn high-beam lights on when anyone approaches. Assuming that burglars keep up with the times and have found their way around such measures, the digital age has made possible hi-tech CCTV systems for cameras to pan, zoom, and videotape anyone approaching or entering a building. Home alarms can notify police or the security company who would in turn call police.
Surveillance systems are moving from coaxial cable connections to wireless home security cameras. The trend has advanced now to the point where internet home surveillance is available where images and videos of the inside and outside of your house can be sent over the internet directly to your inbox or mobile. The stress of being away is lessened by being able to see real-time views of what’s going on back home by using a high-speed broadband connection. The color and resolution of the images would depend on the type of cameras used, from black and white with no sound to full color with high-quality sound clarity.
Home surveillance cameras are not just for peace of mind on vacations; they can record vandals, trespassers, and abusive babysitters when the parents are out of the house. The nannycam has been responsible for catching nannies and babysitters in the act of repeatedly striking a child. Children of any age can be at risk if the person hired hates her job, is sick of the baby’s crying, then goes out of control and slaps the child or worse.
One element of video surveillance is surreptitiousness (or even outright concealment) of the camera placement. The nannycam would be totally hidden out of necessity because the offender could move to be out of range before venting any anger at a child. Entrances to the home or business should be clearly visible to later identify the perpetrators. Outdoor security cameras in the home should be inconspicuous so that potential burglars don’t disable them before they break in. Another approach is to have back-up cameras more concealed than the normal ones, or even use some old equipment to set up some decoy camera positions for deterrence and new and smaller cameras at critical positions. You don’t want to be left in the dark while you’re being robbed, nor do you want someone breaking your new and expensive high-end equipment.
Due to the proximity of suburban residences to the highest-crime centers in Canada where break-ins and vandalism are common, there is a need for home improvement in the area of security. Video surveillance cameras can serve as a deterrent.
The large populations of Toronto and The GTA ensure that statistics report a steady number of attempts to liberate people’s belongings by coming through the window when they’re not home. Not all break-and-enter artists wearing a discreet face covering will escape the watchful eyes of the CCTV system of security cameras and the alarm systems that can notify police of the intrusion. A home alarm in Toronto can potentially deter a desperate heroin addict who’s just smashed a window with a sock around a rock but was scared away by a loud alarm or camera-shy when the cameras are set up so as to be obvious to trespassers.
The west coast and its mild weather attract more people who have moved from somewhere and many are younger males who have developed drug habits or some other need for fast money in a strange city. Toronto’s wealthier districts are hotspots for break-and-enter cases and assaults are common everywhere. Toronto both have the seedy types of street toughs that sometimes engage in theft, vandalism, and violence. In recent years the GTA has far exceeded Toronto in the percentage of incidents of violence. Some of the attacks on citizens have nothing to do with money, only resentment and a desire to make others suffer. Decade after decade however, the large number of drug addicts and alcoholics in Toronto has been legendary, and the word is out that you should think twice about moving back there when it’s mentioned to any Canadian.
Street heroin addicts need a certain amount of money every day to prevent painful withdrawal so they develop survival skills related to stealing at every opportunity and selling the goods somewhere to feed the habit. They may steal laundry and other items they can sell in bulk. The more skilled ones will venture to affluent areas like Mount Pleasant, Grandview Woodlands, the West End, or the Financial District in search of jewelry, cash, and electronics – anything that can be taken away and sold to a fence. The thief makes only a small percentage of the value of the goods relative to the risk involved. Break-and-entering charges results in less jail time than violent crimes. Most street junkies will attempt, and possibly get proficient in shoplifting right under the noses of security cameras. If they are professionals they can get out of the store before the security breach is noticed and someone can react.
There is also a factor of violence, even things occurring to a victim by mistaken identity. While property crime in Canada has declined, assaults and homicides have gone up considerably. To those who can afford it, security surveillance systems can provide some peace of mind.
Theft and violence always accompany a depressed economy so it is no surprise that in the global meltdown engineered by the Bush regime the young unemployed masses either have to join the military or starve. Older people without a future often resort to violence, whether random or direct and still others have some skill in breaking and entering to steal enough to survive. This article examines security measures that can be taken to protect life and property.
There’s a great deal of comfort knowing who is at the door when you are at home alone and relaxed. When the doorbell rings most people are startled and the adrenalin suddenly kicks into action. Many people, especially women are vulnerable to attack – often from an ex-spouse or jilted boyfriend looking for trouble. A home intercom system not only gives the resident a sense of security from outside intrusions, but some can be used to monitor inside rooms to keep track of children or seriously ill family members who may need emergency assistance.
Two types of intercom systems are available for home use: wired and unwired. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks so we’ll compare the two in relation to the uses and budgets involved. Price is a major consideration so most people choose the wireless setup since doing the wiring installation is quite expensive. If money is available when a new home is being built, a wired system would be a good idea to add a value feature to the house for resale in the future.
In general the wireless intercom is becoming the more popular of the two. However, some wireless systems can pick up interference if your neighbor also uses a wireless intercom system. There may also be areas of the house where the signal can’t get through, causing black spots in rooms where you want to hear your children at all times. Placing intercom stations around the house allows you to operate from a central station and communicate with family members when you want to call them to the kitchen for a meal or tell them to stop making so much noise. You can pipe music through the system to reach the other rooms or even the patio if that suits your lifestyle; some units offer a CD or radio feature. More and more we can set up our living environment for comfort as well as functionality. The main use of course is to prevent unwanted entry to the home by thieves or deranged attackers. It’s also possible to add an automatic gate entry function to your intercom system. They will work on most types of gates such as sliding gates, swing gates, single or double gates, allowing you to open your gate by pushing a single button – knowing that it will lock on its own.
Prices for home intercom systems go from $1,200 to over $5,000 depending on the features, quality of speakers, brand name, and the number of rooms to be monitored. Adding CCTV surveillance cameras is always a good idea for people with a lot of valuables in the home. It should also be considered for people who have had numerous arguments with ex-spouses or co-workers over an extended period of time. This also applies to chronic neighborhood arguments that fester over a number of years and have the potential for violence or vandalism. It seems that homeowners always have a crazy neighbor threatening them.
Obviously not everyone will encounter violence or break-ins…it’s largely a numbers game. The area could be peaceful and crime-free for years but suddenly the newspapers might report that a rapist has struck and victimized a woman by entering the home. It may not happen – but it has happened to someone on a regular basis. The social turmoil created on purpose to destabilize the country, in the form of the “recession” can put people in a position where they have nothing left to lose after job loss, foreclosure, divorce, and alcoholism cause a person to spiral down to the level of panicked survival where their actions can become very different than the formerly whole person. When this happens someone becomes a target so by creating these conditions, the security industry thrives.
Retail stores are faced with overhead each month and one frustrating expense is caused by theft of inventory. The amount of theft loss includes the security measures that have to be put into place to discourage five-finger discounts. This article looks at the different types of shoplifters, their methods, and the role of closed-circuit television camera systems to counter both professional and amateur shoplifters.
Stores of all sizes are targeted by shoplifters or have inventory stolen by employees. Almost everybody knows somebody who knows somebody who can get you a DVD player or laptop “straight off the back of the truck”, meaning the employees are deleting inventory entries and taking the units to the trunks of their cars instead. Security cameras are now widespread and necessary so store owners can deal with retail shrinkage from both the public and their employees. Security systems and surveillance cost money as well but even marginally profitable stores find them a vital part of staying in business. As a side note, the CCTV cameras are a good protection against lawsuits regarding injuries from falls on the property.
Theft of merchandise is not an occasional problem; the rate of loss is measured monthly as a fairly steady statistics. When discussing numbers that have been compiled through surveys it’s shocking to realize that Canada has similar stats to those surveyed in the U.S. even though Americans have double the unemployment rate, more crime, and far more poor neighborhoods than Canada. This indicates that not all shoplifters are motivated by desperate poverty; there are other issues related to factors such as adolescent rebellion, thrill-seeking, social pressure to provide Christmas gifts (December is the heaviest shoplifting month), drug addiction, homelessness, and psychological problems related to gaining attention, self-hatred, and anger over perceived persecution by the powers that be.
It’s estimated that 1% to 2% of all shoppers enter a store with the intention of stealing something. Shoplifting is Canada’s number one property crime and 1 in 10 people are shoplifters – most are opportunists rather than professionals, known as “boosters”. There are several different categories of shoplifters and they can be broken down into five types: professionals, amateurs, addicts, kleptomaniacs, and vagrants. Although people of all ages have been caught in the act, nine out of ten shoplifters are under the age of thirty.
Vagrants and addicts steal to support liquor and drug habits and of course kleptomaniacs are compelled to steal psychologically even if they are wealthy – even people with celebrity status such Winona Ryder, Caroline Giuliani, Shannon Marketic (Miss USA 1992), Britney Spears, tennis star Jennifer Capriati, and Farrah Fawcett have all made news with their inexplicable behavior. The items are often cosmetics and designer clothes that these ladies could easily afford. Research doesn’t turn up any male celebrity shoplifters, likely due to the relative value placed on money that someone has worked for.
Amateurs are classified as opportunistic in nature; they might be shoppers who have gotten away with leaving a changing room with extra clothes underneath or slipping something in their pockets a few times and found that it cuts costs to lift a few items. They are often employees who have figured out a scam that can give them an extra income by way of their access to the store’s goods. Amateur shoplifters going through the store are usually nervous and visibly self-conscious, especially now that virtually all stores have video surveillance.
Professionals on the other hand know exactly what they’re doing and remain smooth and cool as they take items that can be sold to a fence or returned to the store for cash. They gravitate towards target items that are small and easy to sell. Booster rings have crews that carry “booster bags” lined with aluminum foil to block the scanners and then head for racks of items like razor blades, scooping them into the bag and leaving the store to a waiting car before security measures can catch them. Even a live security guard wouldn’t be fast enough to catch them. More enterprising souls, sometimes a couple, will visit stores that sell expensive jewelry and ask to see some items below the glass, then create a small distraction as one of them blocks the salesperson’s view as the partner palms an item into a coat sleeve or pocket.
Professional boosters generally have long arrest records; it’s the type of crime that will be caught every so often. The shoplifters know they can expect to get arrested regularly, but the penalties are light since it’s a non-violent crime. The damage to the store owner is no laughing matter though. They lose customers by having floor staff shadowing you as you shop, asking “May I help you?” and following you around. Many shoppers get uncomfortable and leave the store without buying anything. The store owner usually has to sell 20 or 30 of the item stolen in order to make back his investment so some stores have undoubtedly been put out of business by experiencing heavy losses at the critically busy shopping period of Christmas when everything is riding on a successful 60 days of shopping.
Pitbull Security Solutions Ltd Card entry systems are used to prevent access to areas such as condominiums, office buildings, warehouses and other facilities. They eliminate problem with unauthorized key usage, in case it was copied or lost. Each access card or key fob has unique number that can be deleted from the system if lost or stolen.
Before access controls were only in secret military facilities, but now they are widely used in airports, residential buildings and large and small businesses. When access granted, each cardholder is identified in the system and log information will stay in database for up to 3 years. Log memory allows you to control door activity, when and who was entering the door.
Proximity cards and keychain fobs are primarily used for access control system. Cards can be programmed different from others. Some have limited access to only main entrance during business hours, others – to unlock safes, and secured server rooms. System can be embedded in elevators where cardholders do not have access to certain floors. So, office workers or apartment residents using elevator, can get access only to the floor that they live or work on. Access control system can be programmed to time zones, where user is given certain days and hours to enter premises.
Cardholder’s information is not stored on the access card or key fob. All personal data such as name, address, phone number and picture stored in access controller database where user is registered. Even if you try to use the card in another building using same access control system, it will not pass on any of your personal information. The head of department or manager at any time can modify cardholder’s permissions and entry limitations on his or her account. They can decide whether to allow access to premises, allow only at certain time or do not allow at all. All this and much more access control system can provide.
Security and safety go hand in hand. In fact, this aspect is indeed an important one as it is related to personal safety. Installing video surveillance system is one of the many ways to keep an eye on the surroundings, be it outside the house or inside and even out on the roads. When it comes to security cameras, depending on the usages, you can fix the kind of clarity required for these. But in spite of all of these, there are many challenges that security and surveillance officers face today. Let us see what they are.
Operator fatigue
Sometimes, the monitoring officers using the security installers may not be vigilant enough to notice some thing extra ordinary. This is known as “operator fatigue”. This term literally translates to the kind of fatigue and tiredness experienced by the people monitoring roads and other public places. In that case, people with suspicious behavior get away and later end up causing terrible tragedies.
Price
Apart from the challenges mentioned, another point to be considered is the price. If you want good quality of surveillance in your home or outside it, you also need to shell out a good amount of money. You need to invest in the storage of tapes of the CCTV cameras footage that gets recorded day in and day out. There are places where you cannot install cameras for security such as religious places or even bedrooms and bathrooms in your house for the reasons belonging to privacy. So in this regard, you cannot keep a tab as to what is happening in these areas.
Resolution
At times, the surveillance security cameras used are not up to the mark in terms of its resolution or clarity. Hence, the images captured are of a grainy nature and the picture is not clear. Therefore, it is difficult to ascertain what is happening in the situations of chaos or the identity of the doer of the crime. Having a range of products which are extremely versatile and hi-end such as CCTV cameras can surely help but they work only in certain conditions. These gadgets can certainly work wonders. In fact from video surveillance equipment which can be used in the house to gadgets taking care of industrial security, all kinds are used to detect as to what happened after a crime has been committed. The idea is to prevent crime and theft and nab the culprits after the incident.
At one time not so long ago the alarm/security industry was a relatively simple business. An installed detector detected something and a critical condition was reacted to. Some of those conditions were life safety (fire and smoke and CO), others environmental (low temperature and the presence of water) others personal (panic and request for assistance buttons and of course the burglary signal).
There existed various means of transmitting signals, some a bit more complex than others and involving additional levels of security and costing more money the higher the security level got.
Suddenly within the past few years the playing field changed. Fueled by the enormous thirst for information based on smartphone technology and the ability to stream large amounts of video and data, the information industry and the security industry have met on a perfect storm of market demands meeting technology availability.
This convergence point involves pushing both data and video via IP to a portable enabled device. The information that the client wants to receive has become very different from what the industry has been used to, and the level of expertise regarding system design and installation and service has changed dramatically.
Forget security systems as we have known them. Today’s new systems firstly are totally wireless, using reliable, long life batteries and peel and stick technology. No telephone lines on site? No problem. These panels have GSM technology built-in. And today’s technology savvy clients can use a touch screen Graphical User Interface or their smartphone to interact with their panels.
But the techno orgy does not stop there. Video can be streamed from the home or business to a smartphone. So as part of the security system installation you are now installing cameras as well. Energy consumption can be monitored and adjusted remotely. When arming the system in AWAY mode, the temperature can elevate in an empty home in the summer and drop in the winter. Why bother heating and cooling an empty space? And that gives more value and relevance to your low temperature thermostat that you installed – further driving up your price, creating more value for the security system that you have installed and giving you the ability to provide value added monitoring services.
There is a business saying that I just read the other day that goes like this: the main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.
True, not everyone wants to live in a world with instant communication and instant gratification along with instant everything else. And it is possible that while looking and specifying all of these new whiz bang options you can easily get mired into the latest and greatest. But part of being a professional is keeping yourself informed and up to date and having your quiver full of arrows just in case.
One of the best examples is the way we communicate: first, landlines were out, and cell phones and VoIP were in. Now, smart phones are all the rage, and cell phones are “so five years ago.”
“I noticed it more this year than last, and last year I noticed it more than the year before. More and more people are opting out of landlines and going with cell phones only,”said Paul Ingram, of Halifax-based DNS Systems.
As a result, forward-thinking dealers are even opting to include IP capabilities right away, whether or not the customer demands it in the first place.
“In the past, people have called us up and have wanted to make the switch to VoIP solutions, and it would leave us scrambling to keep up. Now by installing panels that use Internet communication, we can activate that portion of the panel when customers are ready to make the switch to IP- without having to charge for an add-on or issue a new agreement,” said Bob Hoevenaars, of London, Ont.-based Alarmtech.
Customers are finding these options to be incredibly attractive due to access to services like remote monitoring which keep them connected to their homes while they’re away.
More established customers and early adopters have already tested out this new technology, such as Honeywell’s Total Connect 2.0, and started to incorporate it into their security systems.
“With the home automation aspect, customers being able to get a text message from their security system really upped the interest for them to have it,” said Elisha Walsh, of Calgary-based AE Security. “The older generation has already bought into security systems, and the younger generation is now meeting the older demographic in terms of seeking security with remote access solutions.”
Walsh noted that the younger demographic is demanding more smartphone capabilities, but it’s a trend the older generation is starting to seek out as well.
“Twenty-to-40-year olds are used to having that information at their fingertips,” said Walsh. “They want smartphone capability to remotely access these systems. And now, with baby boomers beginning to retire, they like the new toys as well with the option to check in on their vacation homes while they’re away.”
There’s an app for that In terms of smartphones, it’s an app-filled world. Security vendors are starting to catch on with apps to help customers access their systems on their iPhones, iPads, and similar devices to virtually transform the screens on their devices into fully functional keypads.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for residential users. Remote monitoring services allow for lighting control and viewing surveillance cameras from your mobile device. Through the Internet, we can take our homes with us on the road,” said Ingram.
As technology like remote monitoring services improves, many dealers are noticing that the price point decreases, which only increases the buy-in for the younger generation.
“Things like video monitoring used to be a high-end solution only, but it’s becoming more and more affordable, causing growth in both the residential and commercial spaces. Customers that would originally shy away from these systems due to expense or price are now entering the marketplace,” said Hoevenaars.
Control at your fingertips On top of implementing new technology to meet their security needs, customers are paying more attention to more aesthetic features of their systems.
“If you have a powerful system, but the keypad looks generic or average, the customer is less likely to buy in. It gives the impression that the system isn’t as powerful,” said Ingram. “People are looking for the ‘wow factor’ with touchscreen keypads.”
Not only is there an improved aesthetic quality with these touchscreen devices, dealers are also noticing that it adds to the ease-of-use for their customers.”Customers like reading well laid-out graphical interfaces. They’re used to being on computers throughout the day, and are comfortable with systems that look similar to that,” said Ingram. “The touchscreen takes it to the next level.”
The increased usability of a touchscreen panel versus some of the older models comes down to the intuitive screen and easy setup for customers.
“People who aren’t technical don’t have to be with these touchscreen keypads. Customers change codes every three months, or even just once a year, and it’s a big deal for them to have to go through that process. They always have the fear that they’ll accidentally set off the alarm in the process,” said Ingram, who finds his customers gravitating toward newer touchscreen interfaces like LYNX Touch from Honeywell. “This existing interface is so intuitive; if you can use a computer, you can use a touchscreen panel.”
RMR, labour-saving, and value-add opportunities Customers aren’t the only ones seeking easier-to-use technology like touchscreen keypads. Installers and dealers alike are reaping the benefits. “When I first saw the LYNX Touch debut, I was first impressed by the touchscreen interface,” said Ingram. “It was the first keypad I could program without a manual. Everything is graphical, so it was the easiest alarm I’ve ever installed.”
An easy installation cuts down on the time it takes to install – less hassle for both the installer, and the end user. “A normal install takes about three hours,” said Ingram. “With LYNX Touch, it was cut down to about two hours and fifteen minutes or two and a half hours. If you take that times 100 alarm installations, it starts to add up.”
Ingram argues that more technology providers need to focus on the keypad itself.
“Most alarm companies don’t focus enough on the keypad, and I think that’s a mistake,” said Ingram. “It doesn’t matter how powerful the system is under the hood. If a customer doesn’t know how to use it, it’s useless.”
In addition to that, touchscreen technology is a way for dealers to increase the retention rate of their customers and boost RMR.
Another key opportunity lies in the initial installation, especially when a homeowner or small business owner is building a new house or facility.
There’s a market today for environmentally-friendly consumers, allowing dealers to leverage things like Z-wave technology to not only increase energy efficiency in the home or business, but create a value-add opportunity in a sale.
“Customers really want to do it all, and I think there will be a lot of growth in that as an add-on,” said Hoevenaars. “We’re always looking for something that will add profit on the initial installation, in addition to the RMR.”
The ability to “do it all” is what today’s consumers are ultimately demanding.
“We’re still seeing a transformation, changes in the economy. A year ago, these types of services were a want,” said Walsh. “Now that the economy is getting back on track, it’s becoming more of a need.”
About the size of a toaster over, the Simicon Cordon can track up to 32 vehicles at the same time and is said to be far more advanced than other photo radar guns currently in use.
This takes photos on a continuous basis, so it can handle whatever traffic comes by and issue hundreds or even thousands of tickets [per hour],as says Steven Fiter, the CEO of Peak Gain Systems.
The all-in-one camera and radar gun system detects violators automatically. There is no need for a human police officer to be present. When the radar gun detects a speeder, the camera snaps a photo of the car, then scans and identifies the license plate.
The software processes the “violation” in real-time for a police officer – or a deputized office worker – working in a control booth back at the station. Infractions are triggered automatically – most cars are flagged as being in a “buffer” zone (as Fiter called it) and are not ticketed. But, anyone going over the limit could be issued a citation.”Speeders can be fined according to the laws of that jurisdiction,” says Fiter.
“Cordon works automatically without human will,” says Ilya Barsky from Simicon. “The main feature is to provide an image of the car and the speed of the car at very high accuracy. There is no other photo-capture system that measures plus or minus one MPH.”
While other photo detection systems are often as big as a dishwasher, the Cordon is small enough for one person to lift, and could be fastened onto existing road signs. Fiter says no other photo detection system can capture as many cars at once, detect license plates so quickly, and feed real-time results.
“This technology would make it easier for law enforcement to identify and pursue speed violations,” says Thilo Koslowski, an automotive analyst with Gartner. However, Koslowski also wondered about the privacy issues, especially since the system snaps photos on public roads.
The Cordon uses algorithms to verify the speed, position, and direction of the driver. The license plate recognition technology, similar to face recognition, scans and captures each digit and letter.
Peak Gain Systems will distribute the Cordon as early as the first quarter of 2012, although no pilot programs have been announced. Fiter says that about one third of states in the US allow photo detection systems, about a third have banned them, and another third have not yet ruled on their legality.
Dr. Marcella Wilson, a technology consultant and speaker, says the Cordon system does provide the benefit of having accurate time, date, and location data for the speeding violation. That said, some law enforcement officers are incredulous about the benefits to use passive monitoring.
William Palmer, a spokesperson for the Minneapolis Police Department, says his police officers do not own or use any photo capture systems, and they had never even heard of the Cordon.
As for whether photo detection evidence can be used in court, Barsky says the Cordon is more accurate than any other speed detection system and that it uses a “metrological process” that would hold up in court. He admits that every country has slightly different rules governing photo evidence.
Wilson says there is not enough research into the technical aspects of photo evidence for speeders. In some states, drivers only need to have a license plate on the rear bumper, for example. And, it’s unclear if an owner is responsible for a ticket if they loan out their car to a lead-footed relative.
“Each city will need to address if the footage and ticketing can be privatized or done by local authorities, who will store the data, how long the data will be stored, and whether the data can be used for other reasons, such as to prove someone’s alibi in a murder case,” says Wilson.”Also, it is important for cities to address if the driver’s face needs to be seen to issue a ticket.”
Koslowski says the privacy issue may be an insurmountable challenge. He says the “shotgun” approach to catching speeders, which monitors every driver and flags violators using photo detection, does not provide enough benefits to outweigh the cost of individual privacy. Cordon blurs the faces of drivers, but the photos do initially capture the entire vehicle.
Barsky says it’s not a breach of privacy to snap photos of cars on public roads. He says the system can also be used to find criminals and even terrorists.”The price of [not detecting] these guys is too high!” he says.
Still, the experts are incredulous about whether Cordon will gain traction. Koslowski says he doesn’t think the Cordon will ever be used on U.S. soil.
Detect. Alarm. Record. Notify.
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If you have any form of business activity where there are employees and customers, or a piece of property worth anything substantial, we are living in a technological time where it’s affordable to monitor everything around the clock with surveillance cameras that have built-in web servers. This makes the device a combination of a wireless security camera and a computer that can transmit image data using Internet Protocol over a fast Ethernet link.
The closed-circuit television camera is one of the most cost-effective enhancements you can make to a business both in security and employee productivity. It’s hard to dispute the recorded video image so people are on their best behavior when they know that the dark bulb in the corner is connected to an authority of some sort. Shoplifting can be curtailed by making it obvious that there are cameras everywhere watching over the merchandise. The IP cameras, or Internet Protocol cameras, also have motion detectors and alert capabilities when intruders are detected off-hours on a property.
If you are a business owner or employer, it is wise to look over your budget to take advantage of any upgrades in your company’s security. It is an important business expense that more than pays for itself so there’s no advantage in procrastinating; you get the added satisfaction of knowing that you’ve most likely thwarted somebody’s scheme to take something away from you somewhere down the line and that’s something you can celebrate immediately. Whether it’s a lazy employee or a rude waiter, you just know the closed-circuit TV camera is going to result in somebody getting straightened out, and so they are irresistible ornaments for the office or store.
A closed-circuit network for the home is practical if there are children being baby-sat or, worse yet, children left on their own. Depending on the siblings involved some surveillance may be called for. IP cameras are not expensive and they’re easy to operate and install; you can place them almost anywhere. Your monitoring can be set up to be discreet or it can be made obvious. This will depend on the particular situation: you will have to decide whether it is healthy or not to monitor employees.
There are areas like rest room and common change areas where employees expect a certain amount of privacy. Someone could be exposed as a cross-dresser accidentally if the camera catches a bit of his nylons. The list of unexpected things that could go wrong while under video surveillance is endless so some thought should be given to employee relations. On the other hand some employees may get caught harassing fellow employees, and then the video record becomes evidence that’s hard to dispute.
The Orwellian future of constant scrutiny hasn’t come to pass as we might have expected with all the electronics around, but we still get very little privacy in public; browsing though a department store will get you photographed and videotaped from many angles and your face could wind up being processed through databanks for comparisons to known shoplifters without your knowledge.
There are instances when cameras surveillance is going on and someone’s rights have been abused. There might be a case where an employee is revealed to be gay in a private moment somewhere on the work premises and is then suddenly fired without apparent cause. The boss may be homophobic and the reason for the firing may have been his interpretation of the body language of the gay-looking employee and no other reason. In this case the videotape could be helpful in opposing his firing and the employee could possibly get his job back if he can show the employer how he went over the line. By then he may not want to work for that employer anymore.
It’s easy to think of negative things being revealed by the CCTV cameras, but there are cases where using cameras surveillance can bring positive results: you may witness an employee being extra-polite and helpful to a customer or doing something above the call of duty. Human nature is ultimately revealed by closed-circuit television.
Video surveillance company Pitbull Security Solutions Ltd security cameras Toronto and security cameras Toronto, suppliers of CCTV cameras surveillance and to commercial and consumer customers in Toronto and GTA Area.
