Page 40 - Security Today, March 2020

terest can be put on a display in the form of a digital slideshow next to a live surveillance feed. This serves as a constant visual reminder to look for these people while making the likelihood of identifying them much higher.
Going a step further, advanced facial recognition software can be added to the cameras covering entrances to identify persons of interest and automatically notify security staff. Facial recognition software can be centralized and applied to specific cameras across the network, or implemented on the edge, as several popular brands of IP cameras feature embedded facial recognition capabilities.
These cameras also can be used to identify high rollers who may arrive at a facility unannounced, alerting casino and hospi- tality staff that they are present and further elevating the level of customer service these important guests receive.
As with any form of image-based analytics, image quality and consistency are critical contributors to the performance of the system. High-definition cameras with features like Wide Dynam- ic Range (WDR) can provide extensive scene detail and expand- ed coverage, even in challenging lighting conditions such as ca- sino entrances, where lighting conditions change throughout the course of the day. The combination of VMS digital slideshows, facial recognition analytics and cameras designed for challenging lighting conditions can prove to be the most effective identifica- tion solution.
It is important to note that all activities in gaming areas need to be recorded and archived for specific periods of time, according to federal and state gaming regulations. Recording requirements may vary from one gaming location to the next, and significantly impact the design and costs of gaming surveillance operations.
Consultation with a knowledgeable systems integration com- pany is recommended to navigate specific compliance require- ments. This will help to ensure that the new system meets those requirements, and remains on budget while maintaining gaming operations.
There is no “cookie cutter” solution to deploying video surveil- lance cameras or surveillance functionality within a gaming facil- ity. Each casino has its own unique nuances and potential challeng- es based on the nature of the clientele, physical location, layout and design, and of course, federal and state compliance regulations. Thus, each property requires an individual analysis by a profes- sional security consultant or systems integration firm who special- izes in gaming surveillance and security. This is
the best way to make sure the right equipment
is deployed to achieve the security and business
goals of the surveillance system.
Jason Oakley is the president and CEO of North American Video.
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0320 | SECURITY TODAY
CASINO SECURITY
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