Posts Tagged ‘CCTV’

Cctv and the Surveillance Society

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These days, you can hardly open a newspaper or switch on the telly, without being bombarded with stories about video surveillance, or digital CCTV, or indeed many less than glowing references to Big Brother; so what exactly is the state of surveillance in Britain today?
Well generally speaking, it’s either regarded as a sure fire vote winner and the greatest thing in crime fighting since the invention of the tin whistle, or one millimetric step away from a bottomless Orwellian abyss.
The truth of course tends to lie somewhere in the middle, but then the problem of quantifying the merits or otherwise in using this technology, are somewhat diluted by a fundamental misunderstanding about exactly what the use of Closed Circuit Television means to our modern society.
Although most people consider the now widescale adoption of CCTV as a relatively new phenomenon and something to be enthusiastically embraced, the UK is actually charging headlong into a ?third age? of video surveillance, with little if any informed discussion on the benefits and outcomes we could perhaps expect over the next five to ten years.
It was not so long ago that the Information Commissioner Richard Thomas, was warning of Britain ?sleepwalking? into a surveillance state, and yet a report commissioned by his own office and published in September 2006, actually leads with the statement ?We live in a surveillance society. It is pointless to talk about surveillance society in the future tense. ?
To industry insiders, this apparent revelation was no more a surprise than the realisation that successive academic reports into the effectiveness of CCTV in tackling crime, have only served to highlight a hidden technical conundrum, which impacts hugely on the way in which cameras are frequently failing to fulfill their potential, or live up to expectations, depending on your particular point of view.
Time and again, reviews are published which throw in to question whether CCTV actually works, but almost without exception, there is a significant flaw in the presentation of the data. When reporting on technical efficiency, it is naively assumed that the systems have been correctly profiled, designed, installed and operated, to achieve the highest levels of efficacy.
In practice, little could be further from the truth.
Generally speaking, there is no wider public realisation that Closed Circuit Television, CCTV, video surveillance or whatever else you want to call it, is actually a discipline that relies on the expert application of a huge range of tools and techniques, in order to address the unique set of demands and circumstances found in any given location.
Whilst Joe Public may see the working end of a system as simply a remote control camera stuck on a pole in their local high street, possibly a couple of miles away from the ?state of the art’ control room, the inescapable fact is that much of our existing CCTV is actually working at a very low level of technical efficiency, and indeed in many situations, is little more than a labour intensive exercise in lottery surveillance.
Now if that sounds a rather harsh indictment of an industry that is blessed with an abundance of positive perception, then I make no apology for saying that an open and informed debate, on both the way that video surveillance is currently being embraced and the shape of things to come, is now well overdue, if not already too late.
Much has been remarked just recently on the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, and how vehicles can be tracked through a network of cameras, much as is presently done with the London Congestion Charge scheme.
At present, as a law enforcement tool it is undoubtedly extremely useful indeed, but then it isn’t 100% accurate, and also not without its very own achilles heel.
The recently leaked Home Office memo which highlights the intention of possibly using all available traffic monitoring cameras to provide ?real time? tracking of vehicles, really shouldn’t provide any great surprises, given previously well publicised announcements on future operational intentions.
That said, this particular tool is only a very small part of a rapidly developing ‘Video Analytics’ armoury, where numerous commercial and scientific research groups around the world, are rushing to develop workable computer based smart systems, that can for example provide dependable facial recognition (at best, it’s generally only around 30 – 50% efficient at present), object and target tracking and behavioural analysis, particularly for anti terrorism or Homeland Security use, and seriously clever technology that can help investigators search through vast amounts of recorded data looking for a specific object or individual.
This latter development holds enormous potential for improving existing control room operations by reducing the inevitable data overload, particularly where a single operator may already be responsible for monitoring dozens or more remote control cameras.
Mind you, whilst existing technology already provides for the possibility of automatically tracking a single moving target, in the not too distant future using very high resolution Mega Pixel surveillance cameras, computers will be able to track multiple targets on screen, and so effectively follow a number of individuals movements within a given area, and all without the involvement of any human operator.
It’s interesting that whilst the technology continues to develop at a breathtaking pace, any attempt to regulate or oversee the way in which it is applied, is still fixed firmly somewhere back in the dark ages. Civil libertarians have for many years cautioned over the unfettered adoption of CCTV, and its potential for abuse and misuse. In fact, the perception that its negative effects in terms of privacy concerns for the law abiding, has not been mitigated by any significant impact on the behaviour of the law defying, has in itself become something of a cause celebres amongst those in the know.
Whilst it’s reasonable to say that historically technical indiscretions by system operators are by no means commonplace, it is becoming an increasingly difficult environment to foresee the appropriate and responsible use of this undoubtedly powerful technology, unless effective steps are taken to provide some practical form of regulation, perhaps through the establishment of an independent Public Surveillance Inspectorate.
Whilst the tired old mantra of ?if you’ve done nothing wrong, you have nothing to worry about’ may provide a cloak of comfort to those most happy to unreservedly embrace whatever is being offered, the fact remains that even using the most technically impressive systems available, there is a potential for mistaken identity, and this can have dire consequences for any innocent but accused individual.
It’s interesting to note that whilst the figure of 4. 2 million CCTV cameras in the UK has been bandy’d about for quite a few years now, it is probably fair to say that whatever the true number was then, it has most certainly significantly increased in recent times.
With the distinct possibility that the vast majority of the UKs video surveillance cameras are now resting somewhere between invariably inefficient operation, and an embarrassing waste of investment, it is rather ironic that around the world we are held up to be the masters at applying this technology, with untold countries gleefully queueing up to follow our less than exemplary example.
Sad to say, but early indications are that they are more than willing to make exactly the same mistakes as us, in a frantic yet understandable desire to play catch up. Video surveillance is already an extremely powerful tool, and its potential for development over the next few years would be like comparing a pocket camcorder to a Box Brownie.
We can either have an informed and long overdue debate about the future for our surveillance state, or accept that inevitably the concept of an individual being considered innocent until proven guilty, will undoubtedly be technologically replaced with potentially guilty . . . . until the computer says no!

Home CCTV and Digital Surveillance

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Remember the boy who cried wolf? He laughed so hard when people came rushing to help him because it was all a joke. But when the big bad wolf came, nobody believed him. Don’t let this happen to you. If you don’t have any electronic surveillance, don’t cry wolf!Visual surveillance takes over homesMore homes are getting equipped with the latest surveillance technology, but closed circuit television or CCTV is still around. These security devices are meant to deter thieves from breaking into houses because people inside their homes are immediately alerted to suspicious movements within the premises of the property. The CCTV home surveillance systems are installed to monitor children and nannies, pets, erring partners, etc. These has also proved valuable in protecting the family from unwanted and potentially dangerous strangers knocking at their doors or lurking in the shadows. Precautions to take if you don’t have these gadgetsIf you don’t own a home CCTV surveillance system, you can still secure your family’s safety by following some anti-thief-intruder measures. Keep all ladders, building supplies, tools, and garbage cans away from windows and other entry points of the house. Better lock these away from sight. Plant thorny shrubs and cacti around your house and if there are trees in your front and backyard, have overhanging branches removed because intruders can climb up to get into the nearest window. Always trim tree branches and bushes. Forget placing the extra key under the doormat. Thieves have already known about this favorite hiding place. Find another place for it, or better yet, leave the key with your neighbor. Install lights on all entry points and keep them on at night. You don’t want to bump into a burglar, do you? An iron fence around your house is also better than wooden ones. Never put your name on your mailbox. Determined burglars can call up directory assistance and get your number. They’ll ring your number and know if you’re home or not. The garage should be lighted from within the house, and the garage door should have a heavy lock. Always keep your car alarm on even if you have locked up your car in the garage. Don’t fall into the trap of using dog notices or neighborhood watch decals or fake CCTV cameras unless you can substantiate this with the real thing. Remember if you are smart, thieves are cunning, so don’t be complacent. Sometimes the unexpected happens when you least expect it. Your doors should be hardy and installed with heavy-duty bolts. Use long screws so these can’t be jerked open. Of course, always close the doors. If you want a bit of sunshine, then install a storm door with a durable lock. Many houses are burglarized by robbers who gained entry through the basement windows. These wise guys remove AC units to get into the house. If you have glass windows, shatter-proof them with window film. Better yet, have these replaced and all broken locks fixed for your peace of mind. If you go on a trip, suspend newspaper delivery, and ask your neighbor to take charge of your packages and mail. Install light sensors and leave your curtains the way it was. It would also discourage thieves if your neighbor parks his car in your driveway everyday while you’re away. Until you have a CCTV surveillance system, you have to be doubly vigilant in your safety measures against thieves and other dangers that may befall your home and family, but never cry wolf.

Painless Cctv Definitions To Make You Surveillance Technology Savvy

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Shopping for home video surveillance, but stumped when you were asked about CODEX, cameo, or BPS? Knowing CCTV definitions will prepare you for your choice of the home surveillance appropriate for your home or office that is within your budget. Know your CCTV surveillance system
Shopping for shoes means you know want you want – Brogues with a leather sole in black polished leather or English tan. You need an F fitting 6 > 11 shoe size. When the store clerk gives you the shoes, you get exactly what you need.
That should be the same with shopping for home surveillance. You should be ready with CCTV definitions to give out specs like you would order shoes because your security system should fit into your budget and specific needs. This is important. Surveillance gadgets are expensive items, and you can’t end up buying an unsuitable system and cry over your purchase. Where do you find these definitions?
Suppliers understanding your needs have online pages filled with CCTV definitions for your reference. You can bookmark this glossary or print it. Start getting acquainted with these and you’ll find yourself an expert. You’ll be giving advice to friends and family who are thinking of getting their own security system.
Using the video glossary is easy. Each glossary term has hyperlinks to all letters of the alphabet. You will see the 26 letters of the alphabet above the chart containing all the related words from A to Z. Click on the letter of the alphabet (A for Access Card) and you will be linked to a page for Access Card only, very easy. What to look for when buying CCTV security
In your costume shop, you’ll need real-time video. That will contain 24 or more frames per second so the image will appear continuous, no more gaps between actions. This is ideal for monitoring store activities.
If you travel a lot, you can still check on your store with the remote monitoring feature. The data from the camera is fed through the Ethernet or Internet. You’ll have to bring your laptop along with you and anywhere as long as there is internet connection. It’s amazing that despite the distance, the pictures will appear continuous and in real time.
In your absence, you can give your most trusted employee access to the system with an Access Card. These come in the size of credit cards, have magnetic strips. and are swiped for the device to read before any access is granted.
When going the rounds from security cameras, check your CCTV definitions for Angle of View. Ask the seller for the angular range of the camera for a particular image size. Always remember that when the focal length is small, the angle of view is wide. Get the leverage from CCTV definitions
It’s a liberating experience to learn CCTV speak. Study the glossary and pick out the features you’d want in your security system. The next step is looking around for different gadgets for home and office. The seller will be happy to oblige because he knows that you understand what you’re looking for – eliminating post purchase problems.
So get started with your CCTV definitions, and be surveillance technology savvy without the “pain”.

Why Get Home CCTV

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CCTV stands for ‘Closed Circuit Television’ and can refer to any system of cameras that are either wired together or used on a single server. Normally these are used for surveillance and security purposes and can be used to either record footage, to transmit it, or as part of an intercom system. While for many, CCTV is synonymous with cameras mounted in the corners of various shops or outside night clubs, it actually has many other uses. This extends to uses around the home, and today more and more people are installing security systems for there home developed by the likes of Samsung Techwin, Hikvision DVR and Bosch Security Systems to try to prevent crime in and around their homes. The way in which you’ll use CCTV around your house is fairly different from how it might be employed in an office or a shop. Firstly you most likely won’t want to be filming the main rooms of your house, and there’s really relatively little need to film anything in your living room, bedrooms and bathrooms (in fact where the latter two are concerned it’s simply not advisable). While on a shop floor you might catch a shop lifter, in your own home you’re unlikely to have many crimes going on in your living room (ones you didn’t commit at least) – and if a thief is steeling things from your living room then you will most likely have caught them breaking in with cameras outside. For this reason then, home security cameras work best when filming the front entrance to your home. This then means that any breaking and entering that takes place from the front of the house can be filmed so that most breaking and entering will be caught. An added bonus of this system is that it can then be linked to a home intercom system which will enable you to check out your visitors before deciding to let them in – and to check them out before you even let them know you’re home. If you live in a crime hot spot then you may also want one in your back garden to cover all options. Other things to consider when locating your cameras are whether or not your want them to be seen (it can work as a good deterrent) and making sure that they won’t be broken or deactivated. You should also be aware that you should not film any areas that are not on your property as this is illegal in many countries and states and can be considered spying or impeaching on privacy. When selecting your home surveillance system you should ensure that you go to a reputable make such as Bosch Security Systems, Hikvision or Samsung Techwin. You should also ensure that they conform to the ONVIF global standards to guarantee a basic level of quality. You should also select a digital system such as Hikvision DVR which will be far more suited to home use – allowing you to delete files at will and install motion sensors.

Consumer Power And CCTV And DVR Surveillance Systems

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There’s much buzz over DVR surveillance systems. With so much information flooding the Internet, it becomes difficult to choose one that’s just right for your small scale or corporate needs. But knowing what’s best for you before you get a system saves you all the trouble, time, and money. Sorting the CCTV and DVR Surveillance Systems
Non-techie consumers have a difficult time getting the gist of the technical information on home or office surveillance systems. What they want is a system that works best. They want to know what’s going on behind their backs, see who has been dipping fingers into the till, and nab the nanny after proof of her roughshod handling of the toddler.
Consumers also want clear pictures on the monitors, a video playback functionality, access to the home surveillance systems via the Internet, and real-time recording of everything happening in the home or office. While some want to catch the mouse while the cat is away, others need the security of knowing family and workers are safe some intruders. Whether it’s CCTV or DVR surveillance systems, knowledge about these systems is consumer power.
Between the CCTV and DVR surveillance systems, the DVR system is getting all the popular attention for its affordability and flexibility. This system can use the home PC as the nucleus for the system, which knocks off some installation expense. With the CCTV system, the cameras are hooked to a central monitoring system, which comes with the package. What’s Best for Your Home?
For a small apartment or a mansion, there will be different surveillance solutions for different needs. A small apartment owner would want to know what is going on in the nursery or the bedroom and who is at the door, while the lord of the manor would like to have the vast grounds and all rooms watched.
For a small home or a mansion, the need is for clear images, real time monitoring and recording and safe storage of files. Beyond these parameters, consumers get lost when sorting the information. If you’re looking researching surveillance systems tell the vendor what you need, such as:
* You don’t want playbacks with too much interruption and blurry images. Concerning this, you’re referring to the speed of the frames per second or the rate the capture video can be viewed and you want image images from the different cameras mounted in the different parts of the house or business establishment.
* You don’t need a big storage; you just want something that can store a day’s recording because you’ve heard that small storage space affect the quality of the images. The DVR surveillance systems offer smaller storage space compared to the analog (mechanical) systems.
* You need a small but practical system for your home, something easy to install and upgrade without costing you too much. The system should be able to provide clear images. This is the entire purpose of the system, getting superior images on the monitor.
* You need different cameras for indoor and outdoor surveillance and you want a working combination of flexibility and functionality plus affordability. Be ready with the estimated distances of the cameras to the monitoring station as these will be counted in the cost estimates.
* Ask for the available starter packages for surveillance systems if you are using your PC.
Knowing what to ask from the vendor gives you the edge when you are shopping for CCTV or DVR surveillance systems.