New Products

Jun 1, 2008 12:00 PM

DVR Check-Up

SPOTLIGHT - Mitsubishi DVR Health Check

Monitoring a DVR's “health” status and keeping it current so that it functions properly is central to the effectiveness of any video surveillance system. Yet for organizations that employ numerous DVRs to capture and record video - such as large retail stores and financial institutions - the task can be daunting. Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Inc., an Irvine, Calif.-based provider of digital video recorders, cameras and video accessories, has simplified the process with its DVR Health Check software.

DVR Health Check software monitors the status of all digital video recorders operating in a given security system and routinely tests the connectivity and recording status of all networked DVR units while synchronizing with an organization's existing network time protocol. If an issue arises or a loss of video signal occurs at any point, the Health Check software immediately alerts operators at the central station, thus enabling them to investigate and repair system issues immediately. According to Mitsubishi representatives, DVR downtime can result in the loss of key video surveillance footage. This risk is especially pertinent to retail and financial establishments.

“We developed DVR Health Check to take the guesswork out of DVR maintenance,” says Jeff Kiuchi, a product specialist in the Imaging Products Division of Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “For organizations using multiple DVRs for their security video, it is a huge challenge to check all the units individually. Our system eliminates the need for constant monitoring and greatly reduces the amount of time between failure and fix.” The software enables an entire system to become a fully controlled network with features for programming and changing settings on each DVR remotely. IT crews will no longer need to be on-site to manage DVR units. DVR Health Check, Mitsubishi (mitsubishi-imaging.com/security) Circle No. 7 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Enterprise Password Management Software

SECURELY STORES MULTIPLE PASSWORDS The system protects multiple user passwords in a secure software “vault.” Employee user names, passwords and other confidential information are stored using AES encryption and a user-defined master password. The software features benefits over typical Single Sign-On (SSO) central password databases, including easy implementation because the installation process eliminates the task of assembling a central SSO password database; flexibility for administrators, through which they can customize features to meet corporate security and password standards; and productivity for users because they now must memorize only one master password. Roboform Enterprise, Siber Systems Inc. (siber.com) Circle No. 8 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Network Video Recorder

FEATURES 300 MBPS OF VIDEO THROUGHPUT The scalable network video recorder enables simultaneous viewing, playback and recording of one to 100 high-resolution, full frame-rate MPEG-4 video streams and uses only 1U of rack space. The unit is stackable to support multi-site installations into thousands of cameras. It features storage options from 1 TB to more than 100 TB and can automatically address storage added to the system after installation. This enables organizations to dynamically grow their storage capacity as the system grows. Steelbox 1000 Series, Steelbox Networks (steelbox.com) Circle No. 9 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Portable Walk-Through Detector

CAN BE RAPIDLY DEPLOYED The detector can be deployed in five minutes using one operator. Electronic features include a security access keypad, an LED bargraph for target strength and an LCD for keypad interaction. The unit also features adjustable volume control, a memory feature for location-specific user settings and a transit counter. It features head-to-toe zone specific detection and 100 levels of adjustable sensitivity. The detector has a battery life of 40 hours and a weight of less than 100 lbs. M-Scope, Fisher Labs (fisherlab.com) Circle No. 10 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Compression Tool

MEETS NEEDS OF CCTV SYSTEM INSTALLERS In a smooth, one-cycle full-ratchet motion, the tool compresses F-type, RCA, RG11, BNC and mini-connectors onto coaxial cable for a permanent connection. Because of its universal design, the tool eliminates the need to carry multiple crimp or compression tools. It is factory-preset and calibrated to terminate any of the supplier's compression connectors and other manufacturers' connectors by adjusting the tool's plunger depth with no adapters required. The tool features an aluminum body with a spring-loaded handle with a textured Santoprene slip-resistant grip. A handle lock enables the tool to fit conveniently into a pouch. OmniSeal Pro XL, Ideal Industries (idealindustries.com) Circle No. 11 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Handheld Metal Detector

FEATURES ONE-SWITCH OPERATION The rugged detector features a 10-in. scan surface and is housed in a high-impact ABS case with a reinforced coil compartment. It can detect a medium-sized pistol from 9 in., a large knife from 6 in., a box-cutter from 3 in., and foil-wrapped drugs or tiny jewelry from 1 in. Upon the detection of metal, a sharp audible alarm sounds and a bright red LED is visible. A momentary push button temporarily eliminates the detection of nearby ambient metal such as rebar or metal walls. SuperScanner, Garrett Metal Detectors (garrett.com) Circle No. 12 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Key Management System

FEATURES A BUILT-IN KEYPAD THAT ACCOMMODATES UP TO 2,000 CODES The supplier's flagship key management system now includes upgraded features to form an integrated access control solution with accountability. Upgrades include illuminated key storage to simplify the identification and location of the correct key and a modular design to allow users to configure each unit to meet specific needs. The unit's front access panel incorporates a built-in keypad that can accommodate up to 2,000 codes with PINs. An illuminated two-line by 16-character LED display prompts users through the process of key removal and replacement and provides on-site audit trail data. Biometric fingerprint, magnetic card and proximity card reader modules are also available. The unit features a tamper-proof mechanism that triggers an alarm upon a range of defined conditions, and an e-mail alerting capability can alert security managers to the whereabouts of Smart Keys. KeyPro management software generates practical management reports to trace key movements. KeyWatcher, Morse Watchmans (morsewatchmans.com) Circle No. 13 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Surveillance and Monitoring Desks

FEATURE ERGONOMICALLY CONTOURED EDGES The desk systems operate efficiently in any security setting from small surveillance applications to large-scale command-and-control environments. They feature adjustable optional monitor supports for up to six screens per desk to allow for the placement of monitors at various heights. Other design enhancements include ergonomically contoured edges for desktops and keyboard shelves, and a range of task lighting and phone supports. Flexible configurations allow for linked multi-desk applications, and repositioned cable entry points on the desk surface allow for improved cable management. Front and rear doors provide greater access to cabling areas so that cables can easily be run between desks, mounting equipment and remote equipment areas. Color options include honey maple (pictured), dark cherry and pepperstone to complement public security settings and back-office monitoring rooms. Surveillance and Monitoring Desk Systems, Middle Atlantic Products (middleatlantic.com) Circle No. 14 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

LCD Monitor Mount Kit

HOLDS MOST 10- TO 37-IN. MONITORS The LCD monitor mount kit includes a range of components required for public view monitoring. It provides two mounting points for a universal camera bracket and can rotate 260 degrees. The mount is adjustable from -5 degrees to a 30-degree tilt configuration, and its mast telescopes 18 in. to 30 in. from the ceiling. The unit has a load capacity of 75 lbs., and it holds most 10- to 37-in. monitors. LCD-PV, Video Mount Products (videomount.com) Circle No. 15 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Eight-Port Midspan

ENABLES REMOTE MONITORING WITHOUT THE NEED FOR ON-SITE PERSONNEL The low-cost, Gigabit-compatible eight-port midspan is Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)-capable. It enables remote monitoring and reset while lowering the cost of implementing Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) for single points of backup for small office (SOHO) environments, wireless access points and IP cameras used for security applications. The midspan provides a cost-effective method for powering Voice-over-IP (VoIP) phone systems and multi-camera security systems. It is compliant with the IEEE802.3af standard in detection, disconnect and voltage control and provides up to 15.4W of power per port. The unit requires no power management, and one UPS (uninterruptible power supply) keeps phones and cameras working even when the power is cut. The midspan also provides over-voltage, over-current and short-circuit protection to prevent damage after a shortage. POE125U Midspan, Phihong (phihong.com) Circle No. 16 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Access Control Management Software

FOR SMALL BUSINESS USERS The affordable and user-friendly software makes electronic access control easy to manage and works in conjunction with the supplier's CyberLock electronic locks and keys. With the software and cylinders, a small business can quickly convert its existing mechanical locks to a full-functioning access control system without any need for wiring. Users can program each key to access selected locks on specific days and only during certain times on those days. Keys can also be preset with a date that they will become inactive. The electronic locks and key record openings and denied entries, providing the owner with a detailed audit report of activity. The software accommodates installations of up to 50 CyberLock electronic locks and 50 electronic keys. The system runs on a PC or a Mac and is designed for use as a locally managed single system. CyberAudit-Web Lite, Videx (videx.com) Circle No. 17 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

AVT Megapixel Cameras

PRODUCE HIGH-RESOLUTION VIDEO IMAGES WITH LOW BANDWIDTH AND STORAGE REQUIREMENTS The AVT (Adaptive Visualization Technology) megapixel cameras achieve 16 CIF resolution video quality with low bandwidth and storage requirements by incorporating the supplier's AVT algorithms at the network edge along with MPEG-4 compression and multicasting technologies. The cameras produce more than four times the image clarity of an IP 4CIF camera while using about 20 percent of the average MJPEG IP camera storage and bandwidth. Smart AVT algorithms employed by the cameras continously adapt to changing scene conditions to automatically improve and maintain picture clarity under a range of real world surveillance conditions, including day/night operating modes. Using the AVT technology both at the edge and at the workstation improves workstation performance as it allows the user to display more megapixel images using less CPU power. AVT Megapixel Cameras, DVTel (dvtel.com) Circle No. 18 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Intelligent Video Server Software

COMPATIBLE WITH ANALOG AND IP CAMERAS USING THE SUPPLIER'S ENCODING CARDS The software enables seamless adaptation of third-party analytic algorithms on standard analog and compatible IP cameras through a user-friendly, Web-enabled, rule management interface. It produces effective responses to video processed by the supplier's encoder cards, with no need for additional hardware or servers. The interface enables simple remote access to the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) through Web browsers and network applications for the purpose of managing tasks, updating the system and applying a large set of user-definable rules. The onboard rule management system enables fast integration with video content analysis providers, allowing for flexibility and adaptability to changing security threats. Video can be streamed in a variety of video compression standards. Other features such as live video JPEG and multiple streams per channel allow for higher frame rates, resolution and bit rates to enhance overall quality. A PTZ plug-in enables user control of surveillance cameras over an IP network. IVS 3.0, Mango DSP (mangodsp.com) Circle No. 19 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

5-Megapixel Network Camera

PROVIDES 16x THE DETAIL OF AN ANALOG CAMERA With 16x the resolution of analog or VGA cameras, the 5-megapixel network camera is suitable for the recognition of faces and license plates. The progressive scan image sensor can be paired with a variety of off-the-shelf megapixel lenses in a 1/2-in. optical format. Streaming full 2,560 × 1,920 resolution at up to six frames-per-second, the camera transmits high-quality JPEG images across a standard 10/100BaseT network interface. The camera is available in color and is offered with an optional day/night variant with a field-proven filter mechanism to provide night-time performance when paired with infrared lighting. It employs the supplier's standard user interface and API for support by a range of the company's software- and hardware-based digital video recording partners. Weatherproof enclosures are available. Le575, Lumenera Corp. (lumenera.com) Circle No. 20 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Portable IP Command System

USES A SELF-CONTAINED WIRELESS MESH VIDEO NETWORK The mobile IP command system is designed for monitoring areas using a self-contained wireless mesh video network. The system is suitable for law enforcement and any state or county government looking to monitor large events or areas without committing to a permanent installation. Monitoring and recording of the system is done via the UniNet-IPR Recording and Management System, which offers full camera control. From the Web interface, the user can also monitor the performances of the network in real-time through a graphical user interface on a PC or laptop. The wireless system can operate on the 2.4, 4.9 and 5.1-5.9 GHz ranges to provide flexibility in the deployment. Components include four IP cameras, four BlueSky tripod towers that can extend up to 18 ft. and four Fluidmesh wireless network radios that act as transmitters, receivers or repeaters. All components are powered by 12-volt batteries. The system is contained in four hard cases, four tripod bags and one case for the command unit. Unilux Portable IP Command System, Unilux Ltd./Fluidmesh Networks Inc. (uniluxltd.com) (fluidmesh.com) Circle No. 21 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Access Control Vestibule

MEETS ADA GUIDELINES AND U.S. FIRE CODES The vestibule provides heightened employee and customer safety as it automatically detects and denies entry to unauthorized personnel carrying weapons into secure areas. The system consists of a bullet-resistant aluminum frame enclosed by bullet-resistant glass and a bullet-resistive ceiling. The frame is divided into two compartments, one for entry and one for exit. Movement through each compartment is controlled by a set of two intercommunication doors. Door control is achieved through the use of exit devices, magnetic locks, infrared sensors and a metal detector. A remote control panel for the unit provides status information for the system, allows override of all functions and enables two-way communication between the operator and a user within the entry chamber. Options include colormatch-painted frames, CCTV and compability with access control card systems. Access Control Vestibule, Novacomm (novaacu.com) Circle No. 22 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Product Focus

A CLOSER LOOK AT GUARD BOOTHS AND HOUSING

Parking Control/Guard Booth

BUILT TO HURRICANE CODE Manufactured for Louisiana State University, the parking control/guard booth was built to strict hurricane codes due to Hurricane Katrina. The booth features a copper standing seam roof, gutters and downspouts. It comes factory-prepared for on-site installation of architectural brick and has extensive electrical, high-output HVAC, data and communication lines, shelves and cabinets. It can be customized with bullet and blast resistance. The booth can be shipped completely fabricated and ready to install. The Estate, B.I.G. Enterprises (bigbooth.com) Circle No. 23 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Guard Booth With Small Footprint

Includes expandable peaked roof The 4 ft. × 7 ft. guard booth features a removable and expandable metal peaked-style roof to accommodate a rooftop-mounted air conditioner. The open metal panels provide ample ventilation, and rain trapped in a secondary roof box can be channeled to a downspout. Externally, the booth features accent-colored mullions mirrored glazing, which offers privacy. A surface-mounted 4,800/3,900w at 240v/208v fan-forced heater keeps the unit warm during the winter. PREZ-002, Par-Kut International (parkut.com) Circle No. 24 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Ready-to-Brick Guardhouse

UNITS AVAILABLE FROM 4 FT. × 6 FT. UP TO 10 FT. × 36 FT. The unit features painted window frames, a ready-to-brick exterior, a swing steel door and a peaked standing seam metal roof. High intensity exterior lights can be mounted on the canopy for night operation. Options include bullet-resistant construction, reflective glass, motion sensor lights, automatic HVAC controls, CCTV and gun ports. Model #810 CUSTER, Little Buildings Inc. (littlebuildings.com) Circle No. 25 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

High Security Booths

CAN BE CUSTOMIZED WITH FOUR LEVELS OF BULLET RESISTANCE The prefabricated booths are designed for border stations, federal and state buildings, military bases and other areas in need of elevated security. The booths can be constructed in four levels of bullet-resistant glazing to meet specification requirements. Features include steel wall construction, steel sliding or swing doors, heavy duty steel counters with UL-approved electrical access ports and components. High Security Booths, Delta Scientific (deltascientific.com) Circle No. 26 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Portable Security Building

STANDING SEAM ROOF DESIGN The 6 ft. × 10 ft. Durasteel portable security building features custom wall reveals, satellite glazing and cutouts for electrical service. A standing seam roof design eliminates the possibility of moisture build-up from rain or snow. The building is shipped pre-assembled. Installation involves merely off-loading and anchoring onto an existing concrete pad. Portable Security Building, Porta-King Building Systems (portaking.com) Circle No. 27 or visit securitysolutions.com/productinfo.

Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2012 Penton Media Inc.

This month in Access Control

• Targeting The Customer
• Electronic Pedigrees
• One Hero Among Many
• Who? What? When? Where? Why?
• More from September's issue