Video surveillance plays an important role in deterring and helping solve crime by live or remote monitoring. The ability to analyse the data it captures is what makes this a valuable asset as opposed to another cost to your business. According to Jan Keyser, product manager of wireless IP convergence company Miro, there are three questions users need to answer before selecting a video analytics system:
1) What purpose are you using video analytics for?
2) How will you capture and process the intelligence?
3) What will you do with the information?
Video analytics can be used for a number of purposes including cross line detection, people counting, motion detection, number plate recognition, loitering detection, tailgating detection, smoke detection, health and safety, and productivity.
The ongoing debate between server based (centralised) and on the edge (on camera) video analytics continues and while both have distinct advantages, currently on the edge processing has limitations due to the processing power of the cameras used. It is acknowledged that different brands and models have different processing power and this will ultimately be the deciding factor in what extent of on the edge analytics can be undertaken.
The alternative is intelligent analytics through video management systems (VMS). Video surveillance management software also makes it easier to search stored video and export evidence to Internet-connected devices.
Many IP video management solutions include the ability to direct alerts to specific people or devices. Such alert capabilities enable a faster response to incidents. The ability to access cameras through the software is also important for enabling more intelligent response.
Keyser cautions users to avoid proprietary installations since scalability and future proofing will be severely limited. Another important issue to consider is the integration with other security systems and equipment. It is advisable to select flexible open platform products that are able to readily work together with a number of brands and models.
Keyser points out that new-age analytics are widely used for retail intelligence and to extrapolate data on how many people are present in an area per hour or per area, for example. Analytics can also provide management with insight into the most popular spots in a shopping mall. Video smoke detection is able to identify a malicious or accidental fire before it becomes a serious hazard and can notify management or authorities in several different alarm structures.
Number plate recognition is increasing in popularity but requires a large amount of processing power due to the bandwidth used when viewing a picture, analysing colours and contrasts and then comparing that data to memory. There is no doubt that it has a large role to play in securing facilities but it is important to ensure that the right equipment is selected and that its deployment is optimised.
The key to successful video analytics is using the right equipment and making sure all components are compatible with each other. Miro offers a complete solution based on Vivotek and Sunell cameras, Milestone as the central VMS and AllGoVison intelligent video analytics.
For more information contact Miro distribution, 086 123 MIRO, riandi@miro.co.za, www.miro.co.za
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