Page 36 - Security Today, September/October 2024

DEALER STRATEGIES
COVER STORY
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the explosion of multi-sensor and panoramic cameras which drastically changed the way we currently design video surveil- lance systems of today.
I personally feel that one of the most significant advance- ments in CCTV surveillance has been the rapid advancements in multi-sensor camera technology. I could go on and on about the use of multi-sensor cameras but let me just highlight a few of the bigger benefits.
Probably the biggest single benefit would be multiple views with one camera/one network connection. For those knuckle draggers out there, that cannot live without a PTZ camera, you can get a 360-degree field of view and still have a PTZ camera to play around with. If you calculate the reduced infrastructure and maintenance cost associated with multi-sensor cameras, it is a no brainer.
Now, here is my one word of caution regarding multi-sensor cameras. It might only be one network connection and depend- ing on what VMS system you are using, one camera license, but each lens should be treated as a physical camera. Meaning that in some cases, each lens/view needs to be set up individually for each lens to properly view and record video. Just because you can see an image, do not assume it is recording. Proper training on camera setup and operation is a must.
PLAGUED WITH VULNERABILITIES
Is all this new network stuff safe? With the rise of IP cameras and networked video systems, cybersecurity became a critical concern. Early IP cameras were often plagued with vulner- abilities, leaving them susceptible to hacking and unauthor- ized access. Over the years, manufacturers have made signifi- cant strides in improving the security of their devices. Today’s
systems incorporate robust encryption, secure authentication protocols, and regular firmware updates to protect against evolving cyber threats. However, the increasing sophistication of cyber-attacks means that vigilance is always required.
The influx of products from the People’s Republic of Chi- na (PRC) also led to a significant shift in the market. Chinese manufacturers flooded the market with affordable video systems, sparking a price war. While this made advanced technology more accessible, it also raised concerns about quality and security.
Additionally, geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions led to the decline of some PRC-based companies in certain mar- kets. This created opportunities for other manufacturers to fill the gap with high-quality, lower cost, secure alternatives.
The early days of AI and facial recognition in video surveil- lance were marked by a mix of excitement and skepticism. Initial implementations were often inaccurate and prone to false posi- tives, limiting their effectiveness. However, continuous advance- ments in AI algorithms and processing power have significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of these technologies.
Today, facial recognition is a powerful tool for security, en- abling real-time identification and tracking of individuals in various environments. Additionally, your face can now grant access in what is called frictionless access control. Pretty cool stuff indeed.
At ISC West early this year, what was the new slogan blasted on almost every booth? You guessed it, AI and I do not mean Analog Input. AI and cloud technologies have become main- stream in the video surveillance industry. Cloud-based solutions offer scalable, flexible storage and processing capabilities, reduc- ing the need for on-prem infrastructure. AI-driven analytics
DS6 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024 | DEALER STRATEGIES TODAY