Integrated Access Control is the Next Big Thing on the Network

Broadening the Spectrum of IP Enabled Systems

T

he ideal complete network electronic technology IP security solution combines video management, access control, video analytics, intrusion alerts and other systems and devices onto a single networked platform that can be accessed from anywhere and at any time through a web browser. The automatically interrelated data from these network devices is reported in real time, providing a comprehensive view of security operations to ensure the appropriate actions be taken immediately. The aforementioned scenario is becoming a reality today as open platform network electronic systems develop to the point of surpassing traditional individual proprietary electronic security devices. Non-proprietary and open IP-based access control is a welcome physical security technology that American Integrated Security Group is now offering customers. Early indications have it poised to take off in the security universe like its digital video counterpart is doing in surpassing analog CCTV.

With greater opportunities for complete security protection, American Integrated Security Group (AISG) is utilizing a similar approach to IP access control that we use when integrating IP video surveillance systems. The migration of access control systems to a digital IP environment brings many of the same benefits to customers that the video surveillance market is delivering during the conversion of analog CCTV to network video.

Freed from the constraints of traditional access control technology, a network-based system can be customized with a variety of devices from different manufacturers and expanded or upgraded either system-wide or one door, one reader at a time. There are IP access control products suitable for installations of all sizes. The versatile technological mix of the most up-to-date and robust components, with no need for hardwiring, provides a very cost effective solution. IP access control systems enable installations that are flexible and scalable with the ability for growth, changes and additions. IP access control can ensure maximum security and a future-proof investment.

Overcoming the Limitations of Traditional Access Control

The skill set needed to incorporate electronic security solutions leveraging the network is an ongoing educational process undertaken by all management and installers at American Integrated Security Group on a regular basis. Having expert knowledge in IT and network electronic technology, the AISG staff continually researches and tests different IP access control systems as they come to market. We are finding that an IP-based solution not only makes execution and integration of access control systems more feasible, the benefits are far exceeding our expectations.

IP access control, on the access control side, gives a big boost to upgraded access control system functions and operations. IP access control offers an increased level of identity verification, authentication, encryption and credentialing. Smart card and biometric technologies strengthen the verification factors. Both systems and associated database integration is seamless.

Traditional proprietary access control systems come with limitations, require expensive cabling and restrict system integration. Utilizing open interface IP access control, the common, standardized digital environment has the potential to create countless opportunities to integrate not only video but intrusion detection and a host of other systems such as heating, ventilation and building management, HR systems, perimeter control, fire detection, etc.

The migration of access control systems to a digital IP environment brings many of the same benefits to customers that the video surveillance market is delivering during the conversion of analog CCTV to network video."

In addition to system interoperability, what most end users are asking for is simple database data exchange. There is huge demand for correlation of data from intrusion alarms, video surveillance, card access, visitor management, asset tracking and other systems to share data and intelligence across an existing network infrastructure. IP makes it possible for AISG to provide a uniform, manageable, user-friendly and powerful single site solution that is able to extend to multi-site management.

Driving increased business and revenue is the fact that we are no longer being held back by a legacy access control system that is dependent on having each device hardwired into one central unit. An IP access control system streamlines the entire process. Using IP access control, one controller for each door, is connected to the local network through a regular network switch. The PoE (Power over Ethernet) supported controller at each door eliminates the need for separate power cables for door equipment such as locks and readers. Door controllers are quickly discovered on the network and enrolled, saving installers valuable time during system set up.

The cost of adding an IP-based door controller on the network is much less than the multiple serial connections required when wiring back to a central unit. In addition, support for Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) makes it possible to avoid having battery back-up for door equipment.

Traditional access control systems lack flexibility and confine the end user to one single product manufacturer. When expanding traditional access control systems, the process is complicated and expensive. An IP access control system can be a mix of the best equipment available from a variety of vendors. Overall, an IP access control system is easier to install.

Customers are Ready

Integration with a video management system is one example of a very common implementation which is much easier to meet with IP-based systems. Many AISG customers are already utilizing their existing network infrastructure for IP video surveillance. Adding IP access control to their systems allows users to easily associate cameras with readers.

The combined technologies efficiently stream live video to multiple users simultaneously and enable operators to monitor entry of personnel on site in real time. Enhanced functions such as facial recognition are accessible and controllable from anywhere through a web browser and include advanced deployment tools such as auto discovery and provisioning. Audiovisual identification and remote entry control is possible for both small basic installations and demanding enterprise systems. New technologies are being conceived such as mobile credentialing.

Having standard network topology that aligns with the IT industry is really beneficial in the new network electronic security world since as a security integrator we must work closely with our customers’ IT departments."

Some of the advantages of integrated access control and video management include:

• Single site solution able to extend to multi-site management.
• One systems integrator to implement the system.
• One familiar interface for system operators to learn.
• Lower cost of ownership versus two separate systems.
• Ease of maintenance and support.
• Reduced total installation costs.
• Use of existing network infrastructure and standard IT equipment saves time and lower costs.
• The freedom to choose components from virtually any vendor.

An Intelligent Decision

Having standard network topology that aligns with the IT industry is really beneficial in the new network electronic security world since as a security integrator we must work closely with our customers’ IT departments, especially on larger accounts. A unified solution that looks and feels the same across all security devices and hardware contributes greatly to ease of system administration. System management is made from any computer in the network. The structure allows remote control of system devices and remote interactive monitoring of facilities. This also saves a lot of time for the installer, as well as making troubleshooting and maintenance tasks easier.

At AISG the decision to migrate to a digital IP environment brings only positive results. The freedom to choose components is important and we applaud the efforts being made by various groups like the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF), the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and the Physical Logical Access Interoperability (PLAI) Specification, to encourage the development and use of a global open standard for the interface of physical IP-based security and related communications products.

AISG always takes a highly developed approach to systems integration. IP access control fits our company profile. It provides efficient workflows and manages multiple tasks. Whether a customer needs AISG to secure a large, multi-site facility, or a smaller installation with a few doors, we can provide an IP access control system that adapts to any security environment within a single solution that is designed to scale and grow as the need arises.

In a walk-through with a client, AISG uses the following access control system parameters to determine if IP access control makes sense: how many access points are there on the property; are the access points monitored or are they easy for unauthorized persons to gain entry; are there offices in different places throughout the property or in remote locations; what types of reader, credential, locks and other devices will be best to use; does the system need to be integrated with video management, etc? If there are several access points and a great deal of trenching is required to hardwire, for example, IP access control is the answer. Other factors are that an IP access control system heightens the client’s security and ability to respond to incidents, while leveraging the existing network for integrated security functionalities and support for third-party devices.

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By Levy Acs the president of American Integrated Security Group.
Click here for the article in AISG News
Click here for the article in Security Dealer & Integrator January 2016 issue

Focusing on Cameras

PROPER USE

Getting the most out of 180/360 degree video surveillance

No one can argue that IP video surveillance cameras surpass their analog predecessors thanks to the higher resolution and vastly improved quality images these cameras produce, as well as the advanced functions they make possible including analytics like video motion detection and audio/video remote monitoring. While there are many excellent IP cameras to choose from today, the one soaring in popularity is the 180/360 degree video surveillance camera. Growing usage is credited to the many benefits 180/360 degree cameras deliver. They do not, however, provide a one size fits all solution. Oftentimes, a mix of

camera types is utilized to ensure complete coverage of an area. American Integrated Security Group (AISG) follows specific guidelines when choosing 180/360 degree cameras for each customer application.

Starting with the potential to reduce camera counts, 180/360 degree cameras have become an attractive option for a variety of video surveillance installs. The benefits offered by 180/360 degree cameras are numerous. In addition to quality and performance, 180/360 degree cameras offer the potential of lower costs for equipment, installation, maintenance and more.

The raw image captured by 180/360 degree cameras provides detailed video of a broad area, often allowing a single camera to replace multiple traditional cameras. You get greater coverage with no blind spots of very large locations like complete exterior storefronts of buildings or entire interior rooms with just a single camera. When specifying 180/360 degree cameras, be sure to emphasize the fact that the customer’s camera counts will likely be lower. You not only save the customer money now, the cameras also keep maintenance costs low over the life of the system.

AISG Application Focus Group Discussion

If designed correctly, 180/360 degree cameras provide a lower total cost of ownership and a higher return on investment for your customers. The basic rule of thumb is to use 180/360 degree cameras in your design for general wide area surveillance, and, then, add single-sensor cameras to cover specific points for detailed applications such as facial or plate recognition.

At AISG, it is crucial that system designers and installers are informed with knowledge of, not only these cameras but, every security product American Integrated Security Group installs. It starts with the AISG Application Group. To ensure the right choice for each customer application, the AISG Application Group brainstorms on a variety of technology topics and determines the required equipment necessary to maximize the performance of the systems needed by customers, who are from a wide range of vertical markets. Meeting with the AISG Application Group in New York, here is a summary of a discussion with Majlind Goranca, Application Engineer, Brian Thompson, Application Engineer, John Martino, Director of Applications Engineering and Arnold Koble, VP Engineering, on the use of 180/360 degree video surveillance cameras.

The major factors to determine if a 360/180 degree camera is the proper camera for an application are:

  – General coverage of a 360 degree or panoramic view.

  – Record/cover more area with a single 180/360 degree camera vs. 3-4 fixed cameras.

  – No blind spots for the covered area.

  – Cost effective when compared vs. multiple cameras to cover the same area.

The first factor AISG considers is field of view when determining that an application is right for180/360 degree cameras. If it is general coverage, nothing beats a 360/180 degree camera. The amount of area one camera covers can replace 3 to 4 fixed cameras. It is the most cost effective solution to providing a broad overall view, recording the movement of people, vehicles, etc., in a large area and at a distance with no blind spots.

Factors that deter you from specifying a 360/180 degree camera are:

  – When facial recognition or license plate reading is required.

  – Details of image.

  – Height of the camera placement.

  – Low light environment.

You cannot expect 180/360 degree cameras to do facial recognition because there is no pixel density within the area to cover. In a 5MP 360 degree camera, for example, it is a 5 megapixel lens and those 5 megapixels are spread across a 360 degree image. You cannot specify which area to focus and dense those pixels — that is not the purpose.

Height is also an issue. The cameras can only be up to a specific height.  At a decent height, for instance, you will be able to recognize employees and people you know but if you install the same camera past 15 feet, you may not be able to recognize anyone. If the camera is installed up very high, it definitely gives a general view but you will not be able to see details.

Low light environments can be another deterrent to using these cameras. Cameras see light and more light tends to make for a better image. It is important to make sure you are getting good light coverage.

3. What technical issues need to be addressed when installing 360/180 degree cameras?

  – NVR needs to support dewarping.

  – Height (i.e. warehouses, where clearance of at least 20 – 45 ft. is required).

  – Obstructions.

  – Field of view (range/distance).

The images from a 180/360 degree camera’s fisheye lens are distorted and need dewarping technology to unbend the globe-like picture that the cameras produce. The round and distorted image is the result of capturing such an ultra-wide field of view. Dewarping is a processor intensive method that makes flat, rectangular images from the original images. While you can dewarp at the camera itself, AISG standardizes on, and recommends, client/server based dewarping.

With client/server based dewarping, you are recording at full resolution and are able to use digital PTZ within the full image and other views. Each user can manipulate the PTZ remotely throughout the different views while also viewing the live picture. With client based dewarping you get four streams to view.

Conversely, when you dewarp at the camera you have to pre-select the desired field-of-view you want to see and there is no going back to other views.

The physical location of the 180/360 degree cameras must be determined. Most cameras are placed on the ceiling or high on a wall. When it becomes a technical issue installing a180/360 degree camera in regard to height, it will limit camera placement options. There are also obstructions to consider. It is important to make sure your coverage is not cut short by any obstructions. For example, if you try to deploy 180/360 degree cameras in a warehouse environment where there are lifts going throughout a tight space, a clearance of at least 20 – 45 foot radius is required; as well as a 12-15 foot camera height placement limitation.

As mentioned, field of view is an important aspect to consider when selecting surveillance cameras. Fixed cameras that focus on one specific spot are usually used for entrance and exits. To cover a wider area like warehouses, parking lots, or stadiums, 180/360 degree cameras provide broader coverage. You have to be realistic regarding the range or distance you can view, for instance, you cannot have one 360 degree camera on a 100 feet radius and expect good results. The ultimate radius for a 5MP lens 360 degree camera is 25 feet. For example, outdoors, if it is 50 feet away, you will not be able to recognize the details of a vehicle.

Various Types of 180/360 Degree Cameras

Today, two options are available on the market for 180/360 degree cameras: single-lens/single-sensor 2-12MP and multi-lens/multi-sensor which uses four 2-5MP sensors with conventional lenses. A single lens camera solution uses a specialized fisheye lens which must be dewarped to produce either a 180- or 360-degree view.

In general, 180/360 degree cameras are ideal for situational awareness in wide open spaces like retail stores, lobbies, parking lots and building perimeters. Indoor and outdoor 180/360 degree camera models are available to provide interior and exterior video coverage. The 180/360 degree camera can also offer day and night functionality. Other features you find in 360/180 degree cameras are a choice of resolutions, as well as configurable privacy zones and video motion detection within defined areas of interest.

Indoor 180/360 degree cameras should be designed with a lightweight enclosure that can be completely concealed behind ceilings or walls for quick and easy installations indoors. For a 360° outdoor camera, make sure the model is designed for quick and easy installations outdoors and includes a professional and rugged enclosure to withstand harsh weather requirements.

The old school philosophy that placing a camera where it can easily be seen may scare off criminals is a fading concept and today, more customers are asking for cameras that are covert. The compact and unobtrusive 180/360 degree dome camera is the perfect solution. Customers often comment that they look like smoke detectors. Dome cameras are widely used for indoor usage and also come in weatherproof versions for outdoor surveillance.

The digital PTZ system lets users use the camera like a conventional dome camera without any moving parts, improving reliability and cutting down on maintenance costs. Users can manipulate their own PTZ remotely within different views.

The popular 180/360-degree camera platform is well-suited for the new 4K cameras. The 4K cameras offer ultra high resolution, sensitivity, intelligence and toughness. The high-resolution images produced by 4K cameras deliver substantially more picture detail across the broad field of view than any other camera out there.

Matching the Camera to the Customer

There are many ways to take advantage of the growing 180/360 degree video surveillance camera market with the latest technology available. Always use cameras that are open-architecture. Important considerations with 180/360 degree cameras are: camera placement to determine what the customer wants to see, the environment where the cameras will be installed and the purpose the security cameras will ultimately serve.

Potential growth markets where AISG is successful with early adopters of the 180/360 degree camera technology include: retail, transportation, cities and government, hotels and resorts, casinos, stadiums and financial institutions.

These clients have individual needs that often require a mix of both 180/360 degree cameras and single IP video camera models. In addition to broad coverage, for instance, casinos are interested in the ultra-high resolution cameras on gaming floors. Stadiums and government applications are often looking for analytics, coupled with facial recognition technology. Airports and open warehouses often require video motion detection capabilities. In retail environments, heat mapping and people counting capabilities provide insights into employee and customer behavior patterns and can assist in business optimization and marketing functions.

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By Levy Acs
the president of American Integrated Security Group.

AISG Post Click Here 

Click here for the article in Security Products September 2015 issue

Disappointed with DIY Cameras?

Q. I recently installed a DIY video camera system in my home for added security and I am very disappointed in the DIY cameras. Can you help me get the quality picture I am look for?

Signed

DIY Disappointed

Dear DIY Disappointed, You are not alone in your efforts to install DIY security, cameras, lighting and a host of other related network devices in your home. Though we would rather you not try to implement do-it-yourself security solutions without the guidance of a security professional, a great deal of calls come into AISG from homeowners who either install home security technology on their own or have used an unqualified integrator. A surprising number of commercial clients also make attempts at DIY security to no avail.  More often than not most homeowners like yourself are satisfied with some of their smart home devices and then decide to venture into adding a video camera system. DIY installations may look easy but the issues that arise when organizations try to implement do-it-yourself security solutions without the guidance of a security professional are even greater than the problems that homeowners experience. The most common complaints with do-it-yourself video camera systems are reliability and poor picture quality. There are often connectivity issues or the mobile app is not working as promised. The amount of bandwidth the cameras are using to operate is out of control. At AISG we are ready to assist you without your feeling you have made an expensive mistake. We will evaluate your system and determine the most economical solutions for achieving the best system operations. At AISG, we help maintain the system, update firmware and offer a high level of customer support. You can also choose to have our state of the art central station monitor your security system or use our Hosted Video services.

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Ask AISG

Contact AISG Click Here

What security technology do you predict will takeoff in 2016?

Integrated Access Control will be the next big thing in security for 2016. Non-proprietary and open IP networked-based access control is a welcome physical security technology that American Integrated Security Group is now offering customers. Early indications have it poised to take off in the security universe like its digital video counterpart is doing in surpassing analog CCTV. 

Utilizing a similar approach to IP access control that AISG integrators use when integrating IP video surveillance systems, the migration of access control systems to a digital IP environment brings many benefits to customers. Freed from the constraints of traditional access control technology, a network-based system can be customized with a variety of devices from different manufacturers and expanded or upgraded either system-wide or one door, one reader at a time. There are IP access control products suitable for installations of all sizes. The versatile technological mix of the most up-to-date and robust components, with no need for hardwiring, provides a very cost effective solution. IP access control systems enable installations that are flexible and scalable with the ability for growth, changes and additions. IP access control can ensure maximum security and a future-proof investment.

Check out AISG Complete Access Control Solutions

Ask AISG Click Here

Sun Shines Brightly on AISG’s Solar Power Plant Project

American Integrated Security Group installed state-of-the-art security equipment at NRG Energy’s California Valley Solar Ranch (CVSR), earning the firm SSI's Integrated Installation of the Year runner-up notice.

Giving customers the latest smart energy solutions, NRG Energy Inc. believes its California Valley Solar Ranch (CVSR) not only generates clean energy but does so in the most environmentally friendly manner. However, this expansive location where the world’s largest operating photovoltaic solar power plant resides is often unattended, causing concern it could be a target for theft or terrorism.

Just as NRG Energy is at the forefront of changing how people think about and use energy, American Integrated Security Group (AISG) operates on the leading edge of innovative and integrated security systems. Founded in 2007 with headquarters in College Point, N.J., and four satellite offices, AISG put its full-service expertise to use designing a solution for eastern San Luis Obispo County’s CVSR to secure critical infrastructure, deter theft and limit disruption of power.

RELATED: AISG Provides Huge Solar Power Plant With Video Surveillance Solution

The finished results earned the integrator runner-up status as SSI’s Integrated Installation of the Year. The project involved installing fiber optics for vibration sensing on 19 miles of fence, state-of-the-art equipment in which different manufacturers’ products are fully integrated to ‘talk’ to each other and where alarms are routed back to AISG’s monitoring center for alarm response and health checks.

Meeting Environmental and Wildlife Challenges

CVSR’s 10 solar PV arrays, substation and facility buildings are confined to a footprint of just 1,500 acres. The remaining 3,200 acres — about 70% of the site — are permanently preserved and managed to meet conservation objectives for a range of species. CVSR also includes a plan for protecting and conserving more than 12,000 acres of land in and around the facility.

Working with experts to design the solar farm’s layout around the critical habitats to allow animal migrations, NRG installed fencing surrounding the perimeter and an alternate wildlife corridor designed to minimize visual, grading and species impact. NRG called on AISG to secure the perimeter, a challenge calling for covering several miles of fencing with fiber and putting the necessary infrastructure in place to maximize security.

The integrator’s wealth of experience in the energy vertical strongly influenced the company landing the business. AISG engineers and designers are well versed in the various federal and state regulations that accompany solar energy projects, and also adept in choosing the most environmentally sound and efficient solutions.

Solution Includes Thermal, Fiber and Analytics

To provide CVSR and its solar power customers with the utmost assurance that their site is being protected at all times, AISG deployed a powerful solution including analytics, video storage and management, thermal surveillance cameras, access control and intercom, perimeter alarms and 24/7 surveillance monitoring.

AISG had to cover the expansive site with as little hardware and infrastructure as possible, keeping in mind the impact on the environment. This meant integrating both the security and surrounding environment in a sustainable manner. The installer also had to create customized power and communication for the poles/cameras.

System components included: 11 FLIR thermal cameras mounted on solar-powered aluminum poles;Pelco matrix and alarm receiver/keyboard; WavestoreUSA video storage and management system; Fiber SenSys fiber with seven alarm processing units (APU) and seven relay modules; Corning fiber connections; Alpha Micro Secure environmental UPS backups for the poles; Tripp Lite interactive sine wave UPS for the head end; Kantech access control for the gates with Aiphone IP intercoms for communication; and Davantis video analytics.

System Proves to Be a Sensing Sensation

Here’s how the system works: A vibration sensed at any point in the 19 miles of fiber sends a signal to two systems. Using video analytics technology, the signal goes though the APU, which in turn through the matrix sends a signal to the preprogrammed pan/tilt thermal camera to move its field of view onto the affected alarmed zone. If something is detected in that area, an alarm will be sent to AISG’s central monitoring station where an operator will determine the alarm type. In the case of intrusion, people on the contact list will be called.

The utility’s stakeholders say they find the overlapping technologies extremely useful in both function and peace of mind.

 By Scott Goldfine · July 28, 2015