Page 21 - Security Today, July/August 2022

only one camera goes down over a game table, the casino is forced to shut down that table. If several cameras go down, they must close the entire floor, potentially losing thousands of dollars in revenue.
In the event of a complete power failure in a Colorado casino, all table games must be shut down until power is restored or if the establishment is equipped with a backup generator. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines. In addition, Colorado is requiring that all casinos have digital cameras in place by Jan. 1, 2024. Analog cameras will no longer be allowed for all gaming activities.
Casinos are regulated at either the state-level or by a tribal gaming authority. In many places where gaming is common, se- curity cameras are now required by law to always track gaming tables and dealers. Consequently, casinos must keep a record of any incidents or violations recorded on video.
The gambling capital of the United States – Las Vegas – is setting the pace, as the state of Nevada has set strict regulations on security operations for gaming facilities. For example, surveil- lance systems in casinos with annual gross gaming revenue of $15 million or more are required to be maintained and operated from a surveillance room.
This would not be possible without a VMS that can integrate with hundreds of cameras simultaneously. Another Nevada regu- lation states that all DVR equipment must be capable of record- ing at a minimum of 30 images per second, full screen, in real time; and the footage must be stored for at least seven days.
These regulations make it difficult for gaming facilities to fall behind on technology updates and with Las Vegas being a huge
player in the casino industry, other American casinos are follow- ing suit.
Using In-camera Analytics to Save on Video Storage
Every casino has to comply with strict retention requirements in part because forensic examination and maintaining a clear chain of custody are extremely important. For example, the We-Ko- Pa Casino Resort in Arizona has a one-week minimum retention rate with some cameras keeping video for 30 days.
With more than 800 Hanwha Techwin cameras installed, the casino is required to store massive amounts of data. Currently, they have 500 terabytes (TB) of redundant ZFS-based network storage.
To reduce the amount needed for video surveillance footage, they use motion-based high/low recording to maximize storage. If no motion is detected in a frame, the camera is set up to re- cord at very low quality and low frame rate. If the camera detects motion, then the recording automatically shifts to high-quality mode.
All casinos want to create a carefree environment where guests can enjoy gambling in a safe environment. Smart casinos know that smart video surveillance technology is an important invest- ment that will pay off significantly over time by reducing thefts, increasing traffic and, ultimately, increasing their revenues.
Jordan Rivchun is the director of business development and vertical solutions at Hanwha Techwin America.
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