The applications for video in security are only limited by your imagination, your willingness to use technology and the budget for the project.
There is probably a product out there that will meet your price point, but buying on the basis of price is unwise.
When you are applying power to a camera, you should be hoping the video will be great, not worrying whether it will blow up. Using trusted distributors and established vendors reduces a lot of these worries, and you benefit from the additional benefits of their assistance in product selection and technical support if you require it.
Offshore online vendors may have a low price, but after that you are mostly on your own.
Clark Security
Video surveillance is a growing market for Clark Security and its customers, so the Locksmith Ledger questioned Clark abotut his market segment and how locksmiths can prosper with it. Following are Locksmith Ledger’s questions and answers from Joel Simpao, ESS Specialist, CLARK Security Products and Gary Perlin, VP, Strategic Sourcing, Tri-ed Distribution.
What is the demographic of your customers: Examples locksmiths. access control installers. alarm installers. Integrators. networking contractors?
J.S: We continue to experience double-digit growth in electronic security (video surveillance and electronic access control) this year. It is one of our largest business segments of growth. The largest portion of our electronic business is in electro-mechanical solutions, followed by electronic access control, then video surveillance, and then wire/cable and fire/intrusion.
Has there been any shift in these lately?
J.S: As Electronic Security Solutions (ESS) advance and exceed end user expectations, they have also become much more affordable and less complex to install, program, and maintain.
ESS is also no longer an enterprise or large campus/facility solution. ESS is being installed in small to medium size businesses.
Increased integration of video surveillance and electronic access control also continues to be a big factor.
Demand overall has increased in response to these shifts. This blend of Electronic Security Solution technologies (EAC and VIDEO), combined with less complex to install and more affordable technology, means that ESS is here to stay. CLARK, along with Tri-Ed and Anixter, bring access to these products and solutions to a customer base positioned to flourish.
What types of video surveillance products do you carry?
J.S: In partnership with Anixter and Tri-Ed, CLARK carries and offers support for most video surveillance products, solutions, and technology on the market today. As popular solution in the mix, CLARK carries the Northern brand of surveillance products which includes “plug and play” IP cameras with NVRs as well as the new HD TVI analog products and legacy 960H gear. Northern’s product line covers all aspects of video surveillance systems from connectors and cables through the most complex multi camera IP networked solutions.
Do you offer tech support?
J.S: Our Electronic Security Specialists are trained to help customers navigate advanced electronic security solutions. They can design, configure, specify, supply, and support stand-alone to advanced network level electronic access control systems. Many are factory certified.
CLARK’s Electronic Security Specialists provide support and information for:
- Trends and current information
- Job walks
- Specifications
- Wire diagrams
- Solution maps
- Quotes
- Orders
- Technical support
They can provide level 1 and some level 2 support for:
- Browser based (PC- or server-based)
- Networked (stand-alone to enterprise systems)
- Analog and IP video surveillance/CCTV systems
- Intrusion detection
- Fire and life safety
Northern tech support is also available from 6AM to 4PM PST Monday through Friday.
Do you offer product training? Can you give some examples?
J.S: Product education is a core part of our service offering. The object of our training is to enhance our customers’ knowledge of security and technology so they can have the confidence, knowledge, qualifications, and certifications needed to expand their business offerings. We meet with our suppliers regularly and plan initiatives at a national level to give customers the right kind of product education and training that will support their security and business needs.
We offer a broad range of classes, from basic to advanced locksmithing, door hardware, electronic access control, video surveillance, automotive, safes, certifications, more. Most of our classes offer hands-on training for participants to practice and improve their skills in an interactive environment.
Our classes provide an affordable way to meet educational objectives including:
- Certification training
- New product releases
- Fire & Life Safety Codes
- Electronic security
- Servicing and troubleshooting
- IP Video Installation
- Introductory and advanced hands-on on courses
This year CLARK is hosting two Regional Expos. CLARK’s Midwest Security Expo and Educational Seminar was held in Chicago, March 16-18, 2016. The Southwest Security Expo and Education Seminar will be held in California in October. Additionally, we host local supplier days. This gives dealers a chance to learn about new products and network directly with our supplier partners.
Can you identify any trends in Video, examples, moving away from analog to IP; video management software; VoIP?
There is a slow but noticeable trend away from legacy 960H analog systems, especially in new installations; but the flight to IP is being slowed down by the new HD Analog solutions like TVI, AHD and CVI, especially in existing or legacy analog installations.
These technologies offer megapixel resolution but re-use existing cable infrastructure which is sometimes the major expense in any security installation. By re-using existing coaxial cables, a new system can go in quickly and cost efficiently, yielding high resolution pictures once only available in an IP based product.
IP systems of course are still a major portion of new installations and are being helped by declining prices throughout the industry. Systems once costing thousands of dollars can now be had for hundreds. This opens up another great opportunity for our customer base to offer surveillance solutions to small and medium markets.
Do you care to recommend some products for video: installation, cameras, recorders/NVRs cabling, testers, software?
J.S: A good starting place for video would be a plug and play IP system. An example would be a Northern NVR (Network Video Recorder) like the Northern NVR4POE2T, which will work with up to 4 Northern cameras while providing power, automatic detection and ease of installation. The available Northern cameras would include dome, bullet, wedge, and turret styles, as well as speed dome configuration
CLARK brings access to a wide and deep inventory of various video solutions, support, and supply chain resources (from simple labeling to IP addressing) for the most cost effective and efficient delivery of security products where you need them, when you need them and how you need them. Combined, CLARK, Tri-Ed and Anixter offer access to various solutions for the toughest security challenges.
CLARK Security Video Surveillance Products
CLARK’s NVR4POE 4-8-16 Channel 1080p NVRs with Built-in PoE has the following features:
- Real-Time 30FPS/Ch Recording @ 1080p
- Up to 6MP Recording
- H.264 Recording Compression
- Full Mobile Apps for iPhone, iPad & Android
- Built-in Motion Detection/Privacy Mask
- Free DDNS Included
- Free CMS & Streaming Server Software
- Supports P2P Operation
- Up to 12TB Storage Capacity
- Integrated 50W /120W/200W PoE Switch (4/8/16Ch)
- Included Mouse & IR Remote
- Dual USBs for Copying Video & Mouse Control
- Simultaneous HDMI & VGA Video Outputs
- Up to 16 Channel Synchronous Playback
- Accepts ONVIF/PSIA Protocols
- Rack Mount Hardware Included (8 & 16Ch)
- PAL/NTSC Selectable
- Built-in Audio & Alarm
- Supports 2-Way Audio
It also includes free Guarding Expert Mobile Apps for iPhone, iPad, Android, Android Tablets and Windows Phone. Plug and Play Operation is made possible with Northern 3.0 Megapixel Cameras (sold separately).
NORTHERN LED18/LED22 Widescreen LED Security Monitors are 18.5” & 21.5” LED Monitors with HDMI, VGA & BNC Video Inputs, PC Audio In/Output
- 16:9 Aspect Ratio
- 1360 x 768 Max Resolution (LED18)
- 1920 x 1080 Max Resolution (LED22)
- Super Fast 5ms Response Time
- LED Backlight
- Built-in Power Supply
- 3D Comb Filter & 3D De-Interlace
- Includes 6’ HDMI & VGA Cables
- 3D Digital Noise Reduction
- HDMI Input
- VGA & Looping BNC Inputs
- PC Audio Input/Output
- Low Power Consumption
- Full OSD Control of All Monitor Functions
- Vesa Mounting (100 x 100)
- UL, CUL, CE Certifications
NORTHERN IP3B CAMERA is a 3.0 Megapixel IP Outdoor IR Bullet Camera featuring POE, Full HD 1080P, 4mm IR Lens, DWDR, 65’ IR, IP66
- Up to 2048 x 1536 Resolution (15FPS)
- POE - Power over Ethernet
- Free CMS & IP Server Software
- 4mm IR Lens
- Digital Wide Dynamic Range
- Digital Noise Reduction
- Mechanical IR Cut Filter
- 30 IR LED’s - 65’ IR Range
- ONVIF / PSIA / CGI Compliant
- IP66 Weatherproof
- UL/CUL Certified
More Info: www.clarksecurity.com
WiseNet Lite Cameras and IP Kits
Hanwha Techwin America (formerly Samsung Techwin America) is offering its WiseNet Lite IP Cameras and IP Kits with a wide variety of configurations, to help customers find a cost-effective solution.
“These new high-performance, yet highly economical WiseNet Lite cameras deliver additional flexibility for myriad professional surveillance applications,” said Tom Cook, Vice President, Sales, Hanwha Techwin America. “They deliver the ideal surveillance solution for small and medium size businesses that demand professional results without breaking their budgets.”
Available in a variety of styles and configurations that offer either 1.3 MP or 2 megapixel Full HD resolution,
Samsung’s WiseNet Lite cameras feature 60dB Digital Wide Dynamic Range (DWDR) and Lens Distortion Correction (LDC), which compensates for image distortion that can occur with wide angle lenses.
WiseNet Lite cameras also offer the ability to record anytime and anywhere via built-in SD card slot or NAS direct recording capability.
Automatic Remote Backup (ARB) will back up and restore video from SD memory upon video loss due to network disruption.
Users can also perform backup manually as needed. WiseNet Lite bullet IR and indoor dome IR cameras are equipped with either fixed or varifocal lenses, while indoor dome cameras include a fixed lens, and outdoor dome IR cameras feature a varifocal lens.
WiseNet Lite cameras also offer a Hallway View feature, which provides 9:16 ratio coverage of narrow aisles and passageways. Users can rotate camera lenses by 90 degrees and video in the web viewer by 90 degrees /270 degrees.
Monitoring zone optimization reduces bandwidth and storage requirements, further enhancing the cost-effectiveness of the new WiseNet Lite line. Other key features of the new WiseNet Lite cameras include:
- Motion and tamper detection
- True Day/Night performance
- ONVIF conformance
- IP66 and IK10 ratings with an ambient operating temperature as low as -30° F (outdoor models only) except SNO-L6013.
The new WiseNet Lite camera line includes 10 cameras in four camera styles:
- Indoor domes (SND-L5013 ,SND-L6013), and SND-L6012
- Indoor domes with infrared illumination (SND-L5083R, SND-L6013R and SND-L6083R)
- Outdoor domes with infrared illumination (SNV-L5083R and SNV-L6083R)
- Bullet cameras (SNO-L5083R, SNO-L6013R and SNO-L6083R).
The WiseNet Lite 2 Megapixel Full HD Network IR Dome Camera (SND-L6013R) is also at the heart of Samsung’s IP Kits. These plug-and-play “surveillance systems in a box” are available in four configurations to ensure there’s a bundled solution to fit virtually any end user’s security and budgetary requirements. All four kits include WiseNet Lite 2 Megapixel Full HD Network IR Dome Cameras (SND-L6013R) and an NVR, while the SRK-3030S kit also includes the SNF-8015 5 Megapixel Fisheye Camera.
The four IP Kit configurations are:
- SRK-3030S – 2 SND-L6013R cameras, 1 SNF-8010 5 and a four-channel 1TB NVR
- SRK-3040S – 4 SND-L6013R cameras and a four-channel 1TB NVR
- SRK-4060S – 6 SND-L6013R cameras and an eight-channel 2TB
- SRK-5120S – 12 SND-L6013R cameras and a 16-channel 3TB NVR
More Info: www.samsung-security.com
New from Sony
Sony Electronics’ newest video surveillance products are 4K cameras and technologies for the security and surveillance industry, including the UMC-S3C and SNC-VB770 cameras, as well as a recorder and software system that supports the company’s newest 4K technologies.
Sony’s lightweight UMC-S3C is currently the company’s most compact 4K camera. It has mounting points on the camera body that enhance mobility, allowing users to easily attach it to moving objects. Users can control the UMC-S3C via a micro USB interface, such as a remote control or compatible software. It delivers the greatest light sensitivity in its class. Its sensor captures more light with low noise than conventional camera sensors, resulting in drastic improvements in sensitivity. The result is low-light performance in nearly pitch-black environments, beyond the capabilities of human eyes.
Sony’s new Network Video Management System gives professionals a customizable and flexible solution for managing, storing and analyzing video content. The system features a combination of network video recorders (NVR) and server-based video management software capable of supporting a variety of network camera formats, including 4K.
“The new cameras and the Network Video nagement System all strengthen Sony’s 4K leadership position by offering broader 4K technologies to customers with varying needs and budgets,” said Atsushi Seki, Director, Business Development at Sony Electronics.
More Info: www.sony.com/security
Paxton Net2 / Hikvision
Besides its integration with HID readers and credentials, as already reported elsewhere in this month’s issue, Paxton is announcing the integration of its networked access control system, Net2, with Hikvision, a leading supplier of video surveillance products and solutions, Hikvision. The integration will provide a user-friendly interface to manage building security more easily.
This seamless integration allows for the easy configuration of Network Video Recorder (NVR), Digital Video Recorders (DVR) and camera detection with access control. Cameras can be associated to individual doors, enabling users to monitor video associated to access events. This provides a more comprehensive service for users, enabling them to take necessary actions both in real-time and post-events.
The PAXTON security system offers centralized administration and control of a single site or multiple sites ranging from one to hundreds of doors, and thousands of users.
More Info: www.paxton.com
AXIS Companion Line
Axis Communications introduces a new system designed meet the unique security requirements of small businesses. The offering combines a complete, integrated and highly reliable product solution - the AXIS Companion Line - with comprehensive support for installers who call on small businesses, the AXIS Companion Specialist initiative. The initiative makes adopting an advanced network video security system an easier, more cost-effective and low risk proposition for businesses that have a basic need for video surveillance to secure employees, customers, premises and assets.
With simple setup and installation, and competitive pricing, AXIS Companion Line presents a new business opportunity for installers that already deliver IT and security services to small businesses. To support these installers, Axis will offer dedicated training, sales promotions, as well as marketing collateral through the AXIS Companion Specialist initiative.
Installers who commit to specific Axis product training and maintain high levels of customer service can become AXIS Companion Specialists. They will have fast and direct access to technical support through a local helpdesk, as well as a dedicated web portal to provide installers with what they need to sell and support small businesses.
“Small businesses are often hesitant to adopt IP based security solutions due to price, installation, and maintenance concerns. AXIS Companion Line addresses these concerns by offering cameras, storage, software and other key components at a competitive price,” said Fredrik Nilsson, Vice President, Americas, Axis Communications, Inc. “In addition to delivering enterprise-level quality in an easy-to-use solution, AXIS Companion Line also provides peace of mind to small business owners as they can focus on running their business.”
A key element in the AXIS Companion Line is the AXIS Companion Recorder, an 8-channel network video recorder with a built-in Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch for cost savings at installation. The device includes a video surveillance grade hard disk and a fan-less design. It also includes a USB port for easy export of video footage and a wireless access point for direct access to the system with mobile devices.
The solution leverages the AXIS Companion video management software, which simplifies installation and use via the AXIS Companion mobile app for iOS or Android devices. This removes the need for a PC during the system setup or on-going use. The app allows users to securely access video footage and manage the cameras remotely from their smartphone or other mobile device.
The IP cameras available in the AXIS Companion Line provide a range of capabilities, including day and night video surveillance with integrated infrared (IR) illumination for indoor or outdoor surveillance. All of the AXIS Companion Line cameras deliver high video quality in full HDTV or up to 2 Megapixel resolutions and include Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology for challenging light situations. Award winning Axis’ Zipstream technology is also supported for minimized bandwidth and storage usage. Axis’ Zipstream can lower bandwidth and storage requirements by an average of 50% or more.
The cameras come with a microSD card slot, which can be used in combination with an AXIS Surveillance microSDXC Card and the new AXIS Companion Switch, a 4-port PoE switch, to seamlessly scale the system or to use as a cost efficient recording solution in scenarios where fewer cameras and shorter retention time is needed.
All hardware in the AXIS Companion Line includes a three-year warranty. AXIS Companion Line network cameras and AXIS Companion Recorder can only be used with the AXIS Companion video management software and mobile app.
AXIS Companion PC-client and mobile apps for iOS or Android devices can be downloaded for free by visiting, www.axiscompanion.com.
AXIS Companion Recorder, AXIS Companion Dome V Network Camera, AXIS Companion Eye L/LVE Network Cameras and AXIS Companion Switch are planned to be available in Q2 through Axis’ standard distribution channels.
Also new from Axis, AXIS Site Designer Axis provides system integrators and installers with an intuitive new web application that reduces the time and effort needed to design complete security solutions for small and mid-sized systems. AXIS Site Designer works online and offline to recommend cameras and recording solutions, saving time when specifying and designing end-to-end solutions for sites with up to 100 cameras. It includes easy-to-use templates for a variety of security requirements and gives interactive guidance on the selection of cameras, recording products and accessories needed for a complete surveillance solution.
The app features a selection of templates for common installation scenarios. A visual camera selector recommends cameras based on operational requirements, such as required resolution, camera coverage and light conditions. It is easy to find the right mounts and other accessories for any camera since the tool only presents compatible components. A storage calculator provides recommendations for suitable recording solutions based on typical scenarios. Finally, the tool produces a complete bill of materials that includes all components in the system.
AXIS Site Designer can be accessed for free at sitedesigner.axis.com and can be used with tablets, laptops or PCs.
More Info: www.axis.com
Tim O'Leary
Tim O'Leary is a security consultant, trainer and technician who has also been writing articles on all areas of locksmithing & physical security for many years.