Page 48 - Security Today, March/April 2025

S M A R T C I T I E S
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Leveraging IoT and Open Platform
VMS for a Connected Future
By Mark Johnson
shaped by the convergence of Internet of Things
The evolution of urban environments is being re-
(IoT) technology and open platform VMS. As cit-
ies worldwide grapple with growing populations
and increasing operational complexities, these in-
tegrated technologies are emerging as powerful tools for creating
more livable, effi cient, and secure urban spaces.
With projections indicating that nearly 70% of the world’s
population will live in urban areas by 2050, the need for smart,
connected infrastructure has never been more pressing.
BUILDING THE FOUNDATION OF CONNECTED CITIES
A smart city, at its most fundamental level, is a connected city
powered by edge computing and comprehensive data integration.
This interconnected ecosystem relies on a sophisticated network
of IoT devices, sensors and cameras, all unifi ed through open
platform VMS technology.
Whether deployed on-premises or in the cloud, these systems
form the backbone of smart city operations, enabling real-time
data collection and analysis across various urban services.
For smart cities to function effectively, they require robust and
secure network infrastructure. Private wireless networks serve
as the foundation, providing dedicated connections for the vast
array of smart devices throughout the city. These networks in-
corporate both traditional wired infrastructure like fi ber optics
and ethernet, as well as advanced wireless technologies such as
cellular networks, Wi-Fi, and mesh networks, ensuring seamless
connectivity and data exchange across all city systems.
Edge computing has emerged as a critical component in this
infrastructure, processing data closer to its source. This approach
signifi cantly reduces latency and bandwidth requirements, en-
abling real-time decision-making crucial for applications like
4 8 public safety and traffi c management. The combination of reli-
able networks and edge computing creates an agile foundation
that can adapt to changing urban needs and support the growing
demands of smart city initiatives, particularly in areas requiring
immediate response capabilities.
ENHANCING INFRASTRUCTURE MONITORING
WITH AN OPEN PLATFORM VMS
Modern infrastructure management demands smart, integrated
solutions. An open platform VMS extends the capabilities of
Building Management Systems (BMS), SCADA/PLCs, and IoT
devices, creating a unifi ed approach to monitoring, security, and
operational effi ciency.
Building Management Systems. Integrating video with BMS
enhances visibility into technical events, automates responses
such as adjusting lighting or climate controls, and provides real-
time alerts for critical building issues. This ensures safer and more
energy-effi cient operations.
SCADA/PLCs. Video integration improves industrial over-
sight by offering enhanced anomaly detection, video-based train-
ing for employees, and streamlined troubleshooting using estab-
lished protocols like OPC UA.
IoT Devices. IoT sensors paired with video enable proactive
maintenance by fi nding issues early, while innovative messaging
protocols like MQTT facilitate seamless connectivity and real-
time insights.
By combining video data with these platforms, an open platform
VMS empowers organizations to optimize performance, ensure
safety, and proactively manage critical infrastructure challenges.
IOT INTEGRATION FOR SMARTER CITIES
Combining IoT devices with an open platform VMS offers trans-
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