Dear Santa – my security technology wishlist (thank you!)

This year has thrown up its challenges like any other. Technology relating to the coronavirus pandemic is still very relevant and has certainly made its presence known in both our public outdoor and indoor spaces and now in the workplace. A combination of workplace apps, CCTV and access control will continue to keep us safe while we’re in our office buildings, and CCTV combined with artificial intelligence (AI) will make sure we’re well spaced in outdoor areas. Fingers crossed we won’t have to worry about so much in 2022!

Some of the big names in security technology have also released innovative solutions and equipment. If I was going to include any on my wishlist (even just to have a play with the tech just once), it would be these three brought to you by Motorola Solutions, Hanwha Techwin, and Optex Europe. So, dear Santa….

Motorola Solutions present all-in-one solution

Early in the year Motorola Solutions launched what it called ‘a game changer to achieving security goals’ – its new Artificial Intelligence Network Video Recorder (AI NVR). It’s a cloud-connected, comprehensive and flexible solution that allows the user to remotely manage software upgrades and download new applications through Avigilon Cloud Services.

Cited amongst its benefits were its cost effectiveness, improved efficiencies across security activities. In addition, AI NVR can connect with a current security camera system and access Avigilon advanced analytics so the user doesn’t have to replace their entire video security system. That’s a win-win for me.

Serverless Wisenet parking solution from Hanwha Techwin

I was delighted to announce this year that Zicam selected Hanwha Techwin as our preferred single source provider of IP network video surveillance solutions. We always offer objective advice to clients in respect of the best cameras, recording devices and VMS available, and we have found that for most projects in recent years, we have been able via authorised distributors, to source everything needed from the Hanwha Techwin Wisenet product range. They’re an innovative company that always comes up with great solutions and their new parking guidance device is no different.

The management of car parks has always been a tricky endeavour and this device – to give it its full name, the Wisenet TNF-9010 360° Parking Guidance device – has been designed to alleviate difficulties by helping drivers to quickly locate available car parking spaces. With its 360° capabilities it can monitor large spaces, detect and deter anti-social behaviour, and maximise revenue for car park operators.

OPTEX

There’s a reason OPTEX has been a world leader in the manufacture of high performance sensing technologies for 40 years. It’s because they’re really good at it! With an expected surge in domestic burglaries throughout winter 2021/2022 over the drop we experienced during 2020 when we were all at home, OPTEX’s range of detectors and sensors are a great addition to your home’s security system (also suitable for commercial premises as well). If you want to reinforce your security or even start from scratch, perhaps these should be on your Christmas list too.

Workplace apps and crowd monitoring

If there’s one thing the coronavirus pandemic has trained us to do is react quickly to new challenges as they arise. Security technology has played a large part in keeping people safe and finding solutions to managing our return to the workplace. I don’t think we’ll be seeing any reduction in this technology, even as we overcome COVID-19 so, for now, I’m happy for it to be on my wishlist. Solutions include:

• Using CCTV to locate available desks
• Access control and CCTV to monitor the number of people in a room
• Face mask detection
• Monitoring large crowds for social distancing regulations

I think I’d also like a selection box to tide me over the festive period (if it’s not too much to ask).

Whatever is on your wishlist, I hope you have a very merry Christmas and a happy and successful 2022!

Dave Salisbury, Managing Director, Zicam Integrated Security Limited.

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