If you are currently using cameras at your construction site, you should look at these four system improvements that will help make the tool more useful.

1. Purchase High Definition Cameras

High definition (or megapixel) cameras will provide an image that is over 400 times clearer than a standard high resolution camera.   Megapixel cameras start at 1MP and go up to 5MP.  The higher the megapixel, the more you can zoom into recorded footage and the more detail you will capture.  Click here for additional details on the difference between High Resolution and High Definition.

2. Proper Lighting

You can have the best camera in the world but if the lighting is not good then your image quality will suffer drastically.  Ensure that all camera views have proper lighting or install infrared illuminators.  An illuminator will provide lighting for the camera and will increase the quality of the image.  Illuminators are good for areas where you cannot have lights on continually (i.e. neighbors who might be located close by) because the illuminator is only visible to the camera.  When you are looking at an illuminator at night, in-person,  you will only see red dots on the illuminator itself.  The camera has a sensor that can pick up the illuminator so the resulting picture will appear as if  there are  lights on.  Click here to read more about night vision and surveillance cameras.

3. License Plate Capture

You are going to need proper license plate recognition cameras (LPR) that are placed at any entrance in order to accurately capture license plates.  LPR cameras can capture license plates at high speeds and in any lighting condition.  With a proper LPR camera you will be able to provide police with evidence that they can use to easily track down the criminal.

4. Instant Video Notifications

If you invest in a system that has person and video detection you can implement video alerts.  Whenever a person or vehicle enters the construction site after hours you can have an instant video notification sent to your smartphone.  You can simply click on the video clip and quickly verify that someone is trespassing.  With the right system, you will be able to login, watch your cameras live and notify the police.  With video notifications you can turn your reactive video surveillance system into a live action monitoring tool.

We see a lot of non-monitored video surveillance systems on construction sites and most of the time we are called in because an incident occurred and they have unusable video.  If you are planning on purchasing a video surveillance system for your construction site you are going to want to make sure you know about the options available.  Contact us anytime and we can set up a 20 minute webinar to help you understand the different options that are available to you.

Edge Recording is starting to gain some popularity lately because of the platform’s ability to offer several advantages (see my previous post on Edge Recording).  Ultimately, it’s true that no matter the application, there are certain platforms that have increased functionality and work better than certain types of products.  We have compiled a list of the top five applications that stand to benefit through the use of Edge Recording.

5. Large Warehouses or Storage Facilities

Due to the size of some places and considering the amount of cabling required, it is easier to use Edge Recording via the use of the company’s existing network infrastructure.  Because the application Records at the Edge, there is little to no bandwidth that needs to be used other than when you are reviewing this footage itself, which is an obvious benefit to overall operations.  Via the use of Edge Recording, it is possible for a large warehouse or storage facility to save money on cabling costs and installation processes.

4. Retail Stores

It is a fact that most retailers structure their businesses around getting as much floor space as possible for product display and sales, which leaves little room for offices and equipment necessary to the operating of the business.  With this situation, most of the time a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or Network Video Recorder (NVR) needs to be stuffed under a desk or next to the POS.  When operations are structured this way, video surveillance processes experience issues related to dust build up and more often than not, the equipment suffers and ends up breaking down, exposing the company to risk.

With Edge Recording, you will be able to connect to the existing network switch; this not only saves money, but also space.  The camera records locally to an SD card (or solid state hard drive) which means that there is no need to add a separate computer for recording purposes.

3. Wireless Applications

One of the biggest benefits to using Edge Recording is when there is a wireless deployment.  No longer will you have to worry about video loss or wireless equipment failing.  All video records on the camera, so even if the wireless antenna is down or not functioning, such as during a storm, when experiencing bad weather, or because of faulty equipment, your data is still safe.

With an NVR, the camera would rely on the wireless network to transmit the video back to the server.  If the wireless antenna failed, you would not have any video recording for that time period.

2. Rapid Deployment

When you need to install cameras quickly, such as at a mobile worksite, Edge Recording is proven to be the best.  All you really need is a power source and you will be good to go!

1. Construction Sites

Ultimately, one of the best applications for Edge Recording is at a construction site.  Most of the time there isn’t a secure place to put a recorder.  With Edge Recording, you can throw a camera on top of a pole and it can be running within hours.

Do you use video surveillance?  If so, is the system IP-based with an NVR or does it still use analog cameras that record to a DVR?

Over Ten years have passed since the introduction of IP video surveillance systems and is slowly becoming the standard in the security industry.  With the fact that IP has become so popular, we are now seeing other trends beginning to emerge in the industry. In this post, we will talk about Edge Recording.

What is Edge Recording?

Edge Recording (or Recording at the Edge) is the process of taking video from a camera and storing it at the edge of the network, as opposed to transporting it across the network to a centralized recording unit, such as a Network Video Recorder.  With Edge Recording, the video is either stored on the camera or on a network-attached storage device.

The Re-Introduction of Edge Recording

We refer to it as the “re-introduction” because Edge Recording has actually been around for a long time, it’s just that nobody really cared.  Axis Communications, one of the largest camera manufacturers in the marketplace, has had cameras with SD slots for as long as we can remember. However, we don’t know many businesses currently using it.  Most of the time, cameras record through a third-party video management software (i.e. Genetec, Exacq, Milestone, etc.) which centralizes all video onto a server.  Edge Recording means that you cut out the server and software and record everything onto the camera.  Until ExacQvision released its Edge Recording software, the only companies engaging in this properly were VideoIQ and Mobotix, both of which supply an end-to-end hardware and software solution.  With Exacq’s new Edge Recorder you can load the software onto an Axis camera’s SD card (compatible cameras can be found here) and have one of the few open-architecture Edge Recording solutions.

The Top 4 Advantages of Recording at the Edge

1. Network Friendly

Recording at the Edge is bandwidth-friendly because it sends virtually zero data when recording video.  The network is only used to playback or review video footage through client software which is housed on a computer.  When the network includes a WAN or Internet connection, Recording at the Edge is the only way to record high quality images.

2. Simple Deployment

Edge Recording surveillance cameras are very simple to deploy; essentially they only need a power source.  A consumer can easily install cameras by simply plugging the cameras into the closest network switch.

3. Less Exposure to Losing Video

With Edge Recording your data is stored on the camera.  This means that if a hard drive fails, the data on that camera is the only data loss experienced.  This offers a huge benefit because the opposite effect is much more damaging.  If you have ever had a hard drive failure on a server, it is likely that all the data from all the cameras would have been lost.

4. More Flexibility

With Edge Recording there is no restriction as to where a camera can be mounted.  As long as there is power, the camera can be mounted easily.  Moreover, you can setup wireless networks because all the data is stored on the camera, leaving the wireless network free from strain.

Milestone

Website:  http://www.milestonesys.com/

Milestone is one of the largest vendors of video management software in the world and currently are attributed with holding the most market share.  Their products have been around for 14 years, a considerable amount of time in this industry, and are based on open-architecture that integrates with almost any camera on the market (over 500 now). Milestone offers consumers various levels to their XProtect video management software:  GO, Essential, Express, Professional, Enterprise, and Corporate.  You can find out more information about Milestone XProtect by clicking here.

All the software platforms are comparable and only vary based on restrictions to features, number of cameras, as well as other factors.  A comparison chart can be found here.

Milestone Xprotect GO is the free software the company currently offers.  It supports up to eight cameras and will provide a homeowner or small business owner with a good idea of the functionality of the software.  This is one of the best free offerings available on the market because it is actually a full version.  The only limitation is the number of cameras and the amount of data retention (5 days maximum) that is associated with the software.  However, you can easily upgrade from GO to any other platform as your system expands.  Download Xprotect Go

Exacq

website:  www.exacq.com

Exacq is also known as a leading developer of video management software and is a company that we highly recommend.  Their software is very stable and can integrate with most major IP cameras on the market.  Exacq has been around for about 10 years, but their founders have been in the video surveillance industry for a long time.  Exacq is quickly gaining market share and has become known as a top brand name in the market for video management software.  Their software is very clean and easy to use, offering several options:  Start, Pro, Enterprise, and EDGE.  Their latest release, Exacq Edge is interesting because it can be installed directly onto an IP camera (here are some compatible cameras).  All video recording is done on the camera locally via an SD card and it can be viewed on their awesome iPad and mobile app.  Download exacQ Software

Pelco

website:  www.pelco.com

Pelco was once the leader in the video surveillance market but experts now state that they losing market share.  In our opinion, their product is still good and stable, but I would be lying if I told you that we have a ton of experience with their video management software.  Although they were late to the IP video game, it seems that they’ve been ramping up and starting to offer some great products.

Pelco offers the full version of their software for free but limits consumers through the use of only four cameras.  The software can be expanded to 64 cameras through the purchasing of licenses.  It is possible to find more info  about Pelco and download their product by visiting this link.

NUUO

website: www.nuuo.com

NUUO was founded in 2004 and although they do not have as much market share in North America, they  offer a good video management solution.  Download NUUO Software.

Almost all Police services in North America have some sort of cost recovery program to reduce the amount of false alarm calls.  Most systems installed in homes and business are what we refer to as an unverified alarm (check out this post on verified alarms) and when the Police get a call about an unverified alarm, they know that there is a 95% chance that its false (because the average in North America is over 95%).  That being said, most Police services will send you (or the alarm company) a bill for responding to a false alarm (in an effort to control false alarms).  Every region is different and below are some of the larger regions in Ontario (mainly the GTA).

Toronto Police Service will charge $130.00 for responding to false alarms.  For more details you can visit their website at http://www.yrp.ca/securityalarmsbus.aspx.

York Region Police have an Alarm Program to deal with false alarms.  For full details you can visit their website at http://www.yrp.ca/securityalarmsbus.aspx.  Registered addresses become a Priority Premise ($40.00/year for residential & $75.00/year for commercial) and are allowed three (3) false alarms in one (1) year.  After the third false alarm your address will be suspended for one (1) year or until a $250.00 reinstatement fee is paid.  Unregistered premises will be suspended after one (1) false alarm for a period of one (1) year or until a $250.00 reinstatement fee is paid.

Peel Regional Police have an Alarm Program to deal with false alarms, but they do not charge anything.  For full details you can visit their website at http://www.peelpolice.on.ca/en/aboutus/alarmprogram.asp.  Your premises will be put into suspension after the Police respond to two (2) false alarms in one (1) year.  If you receive a suspension notice, you need to follow a process to be reinstated.  If two (2) further false alarms occur, after being reinstated, the original suspension will remain in effect for one (1) year.

Durham Regional Police will charge $150.00 for responding to false alarms and $75.00 for a cancelled dispatch in which the officer was already en route.  For more details you can visit their website at http://www.drps.ca/internet_explorer/guest_book/alarms.asp.

Hamilton Police will charge for responding to false alarms, but they do not specify the amount.  If an officer responds to a false alarm, the alarm department will call you to discuss any charges.  For more details you can visit their website at http://www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca/HPS/Services/FalseAlarms/.

Barrie Police Service will allow you one (1) false alarm and then will charge $100.00 for the second false alarm, $200.00 for the third false alarm, and $300.00 for the fourth false alarm.  If the premises do not pay the bill or they exceed four (4) false alarms, they will be put into suspension.  For more information you can visit their website at http://www.police.barrie.on.ca/false-alarm-policy.

Niagara Region Police require you to register your premises and they will charge $35.00 for each false alarms.  The bill is sent directly to the address that is being monitored and the premises will be suspended if the invoice is not paid.  For more details you can visit their website at http://www.nrps.com/psb/bylaws/False%20Alarms%20-%20Police%20Response%20-%20302-2010.pdf.

Ottawa Police Service requires you to register your premises and the charges are $26.00 for residential/small commercial (under 2000 sq ft) and $52.00 for larger commercial (above 2000 sq ft).  There is no limit on false alarms, but each one will cost $75.00 (plus registration fees for unregistered premises).  For more details you can visit their website at http://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/servingottawa/sectionsandunits/alarmmanagement.aspx.

Read Rafal’s previous posts on the most Common Causes of False Alarms and How to Reduce False Alarms.  I think that if most customers follow some simple steps they will end up saving a lot of money.

How to reduce False Alarms:

• Properly train all users (e.g., babysitters, relatives, children, visitors, employees etc.).
• Hold regularly scheduled training sessions to ensure all employees are aware of any changes to the system (e.g., pass codes).
• Secure doors and windows before turning on alarm.
• Be aware of holiday-related false alarms due to untrained seasonal or temporary help, carelessness due to long hours or office parties.
• Inform the monitoring station of new pass codes and arming codes, and new or removed authorized users.
• Service and maintain the system (including batteries) properly.
• Train the necessary people in the use of your home’s alarm system and schedule annual review sessions.
• Review your alarm system operating manual. Take time to educate everyone with access to your home/business on proper system operation.
• Be familiar with procedures should we receive an alarm signal from your home or business, including how to cancel an accidental alarm. In some instances, our monitoring station has begun verifying alarms and will attempt to contact you before summoning the appropriate authorities.
• If your system includes a back-up battery for use during an electrical power loss, check to make sure that it is fully charged. Low battery voltage is the second most common cause of accidental alarms. Most alarm systems visually indicate a problem with the battery.
• Regularly check alarm contact switches/magnets on doors and windows for damage or looseness. Call Double Vision at if service adjustments are needed.
• If your system has glass-break detectors, call Double Vision to verify that they have been adjusted properly so that loud noises such as thunder or nearby construction will not set off the alarm.
• Check that all doors and windows are locked and cannot be inadvertently opened by a strong breeze.
• Motion detectors should be aimed away from air vents, sources of heat, fireplaces and windows. If this is not the case, call Double Vision for service. Plants and other objects should also be placed out of the field of vision.
• Test your alarm system with the Double Vision monitoring station on a quarterly basis to ensure that signals are being properly received. Always call Double Vision before you test your system.
• Always advise Double Vision before any interior remodeling (including air vent repair, extensive painting, window replacement and any changes to the location of doors, walls or windows) that may affect the alarm system configuration.
• If there is a question as to whether or not the system is working properly, immediately contact Double Vision to check the status
• Upgrade old alarm systems.

False alarms have been a problem for both the alarm industry and police services all across the world.  They cost money, waste time, and reduce the significance of the system.  Statistics show that over 95% of alarm calls to the police are false.  Most systems are installed with basic equipment and there is no way for the monitoring station to verify the alarm (read more on verified alarms here), so when the police receive a call they are expecting it to be false.

Here are the most common causes of False Alarms:

• Using incorrect keypad codes
• Failing to train authorized users
• Failure to secure doors and windows once the alarm is turned on
• Wandering pets, animals, or guard dogs
• Re-entering the premises just after leaving without disarming (assuming the exit delay is long enough to compensate)
• Objects hanging by or around motion detectors
• Weak system batteries
• Faulty equipment
• Acts of nature (strong winds, electrical storms, etc.).
• Employees not following daily opening and closing procedures.
• Public and vendor having open access to your facilities.
• Employee error.
• Multiple suppliers and service providers having open access to your facilities.
• Janitorial staff not following procedures.

False alarms due to faulty equipment or acts of nature are rare. The single largest cause of false alarms is human error.

To learn some tips on how to Reduce False Alarms, click here

Here are 4 things you can do today that will help you get closer to a purchase order:

1.  Shut up and Listen:

The biggest problem that I see with many sales people is that they tend to talk a lot.  Although it’s a good trait to have when you are at social events, it’s not the best thing to be over talking during a meeting.  Don’t sit there and spit out information at the potential client because you will just end up confusing and overwhelming them.  Ask proper questions and try to uncover problems.  This doesn’t mean that you should sit there like a mute, you can still strike up conversations, just keep in mind that your there to hear what they have to say and to see if you can help solve their problem.

Come up with a bunch of good questions to ask and prepare yourself before walking into the meeting.  Not only will you have a productive meeting, but you will come off very professional.

2.  Nobody Cares about Bits and Bytes:

If your selling technology, don’t over concern yourself with knowing every technical detail about the product.  If you are sitting in front of the right person, they aren’t going to be grilling you about the engineering specifications.  Concentrate on fully understanding the customer and their needs.  If they are asking you overly technical questions, you can always write them down and follow-up the next day.  It’s another excuse to give them a call and touch base.

3.  It either has to Make them Money or Save them Money:

If what you are pitching doesn’t help the potential client make money or save money then your solution is most likely not a fit.  Of course this isn’t true for consumer products (i.e. TV, iPod, etc), but if your in business-to-business sales then this is 100% true.  When we walk into a potential clients office they are usually asking us to come in because they need to reduce theft or liability (if you don’t know, we sell security solutions).  If you are selling a state of the art machine to a manufacturer it should be able to speed up production, in turn making them more money.  Always ask yourself “will my solution save them money or make them money?”  If the answer is No, then you are most likely wasting their time.

4.  Follow Through:

Make sure you follow through on absolutely everything you talked about in the meeting.  Write down all of the customers questions and take good notes.  When your done the meeting ask them when they need you to follow-up.  Do they need answers tomorrow or next week?  If they need answers tomorrow, then you make it a priority and get them an answer tomorrow.  If they need an answer next week, then make sure you get all the info into your CRM system and you get back to them on exactly the date you agreed on.  Make sure you answer every question, no matter how ridiculous they sound to you.  By being responsive and easy to deal with shows your potential client that your company is the same way.  Many people miss this small but simple task and the decision maker will notice.

When Carlo Di Leo, then 25, was talking to a friend about the emergence of new video surveillance technology and how the security market was in need of a change, he quickly came up with a business plan and quit his job.  With no money, no employees, and no experience in the industry, Carlo started Double Vision with as little as a computer and telephone.  He called businesses in the GTA and began introducing Double Vision and the concept of how digital video technology could help them better protect and manage their business.  In the beginning Carlo wore all the hats, going straight from a sales meeting to a job site to finish an installation.

Today, Double Vision is a full Security Services provider with over 12 employees and multi-million dollar sales.  The company provides Video Surveillance, Access Control, Intrusion Detection, and Video Monitoring solutions and caters to Fortune 500 companies, Government, Schools, Property Management, Building Owners, and Construction Sites across Ontario and Canada. Carlo was honoured to receive the award and be recognized for his achievements, giving most of the credit to his dedicated staff for all of the hard work and time they put into the company.

The awards ceremony was held in mid-March at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel.  For more information on Double Vision visit our main page at www.doublevision.ca.

The 18th Annual Springfest returns on April 17, 2012 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre South Building. This exclusive one-day event features educational seminars and top exhibits for building owners, property managers, facility managers and others responsible for building maintenance and facility operations.

Double Vision will be exhibiting at booth # 623.

Tuesday, April 17

Exhibit Floor -10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Seminar Program – 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon

More Information:

Register for Free:  https://www.microspec.com/reg/SF2012/

Seminar Program Listing:  http://www.springfesttoronto.com/pages/Seminar_Program_Listing.php

Floor Plan:  http://www.springfesttoronto.com/pages/floorplan.php

Directions and Parking:  http://www.springfesttoronto.com/pages/directions_parking.php