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No. 37/2009 (Nov. 9, 2009)
Have they found a better way? - ALARM Kielce, November 4 - 5, 2009. The simple formula consisting in providing space for exhibitors and visitors is not enough nowadays. To ensure the success of a trade event, the organizers have to come up with new ideas.
The organizers of the Video Surveillance Conference and Exhibition ALARM in Kielce have been applying the emphasis on meetings of investors with distributors of equipment for years now. The essence of the idea are well prepared conferences: "The safe city" and "The safe stadium". During two days the conferences attract hundreds of participants - representatives of cities, the police, sports clubs and other organizations interested in installing security systems.
The reports outlining the solutions of video surveillance systems are also presented directly by their users assessing the benefits and showing problems associated with technical and organizational implementation of the systems. This year the users presented interesting views on applications of CCTV monitoring in urban and municipal areas, on public transport, in schools, churches and religious facilities. The presentations of the distributors were dominated by the proposals on the basis of megapixel cameras. They also emphasized the importance of the right software.
The presentation of DIPOL company was based on its experience in supplying equipment and software for more than a dozen of city video surveillance systems. The success of every CCTV project depends on an appropriate choice of cameras and recording equipment, software, and video transmission means. On this basis, we introduced the concept of ULTIMONITORING.
ULTIMONITORING allows the investor, designer and installer to use products that combine multiple technologies involved in CCTV, IT and telecommunications - while maintaining compatibility, modernity, and economy criteria. The offer is continuously evolving and expanding along with the developments of that technologies, providing the customers with state-of-the-art and flexible solutions capable of being modernized and expanded in the future.
ULTIMONITORING concept
The organizers of the Video Surveillance Conference and Exhibition ALARM in Kielce have been applying the emphasis on meetings of investors with distributors of equipment for years now. The essence of the idea are well prepared conferences: "The safe city" and "The safe stadium". During two days the conferences attract hundreds of participants - representatives of cities, the police, sports clubs and other organizations interested in installing security systems.
The reports outlining the solutions of video surveillance systems are also presented directly by their users assessing the benefits and showing problems associated with technical and organizational implementation of the systems. This year the users presented interesting views on applications of CCTV monitoring in urban and municipal areas, on public transport, in schools, churches and religious facilities. The presentations of the distributors were dominated by the proposals on the basis of megapixel cameras. They also emphasized the importance of the right software.
The presentation of DIPOL company was based on its experience in supplying equipment and software for more than a dozen of city video surveillance systems. The success of every CCTV project depends on an appropriate choice of cameras and recording equipment, software, and video transmission means. On this basis, we introduced the concept of ULTIMONITORING.
ULTIMONITORING allows the investor, designer and installer to use products that combine multiple technologies involved in CCTV, IT and telecommunications - while maintaining compatibility, modernity, and economy criteria. The offer is continuously evolving and expanding along with the developments of that technologies, providing the customers with state-of-the-art and flexible solutions capable of being modernized and expanded in the future.
ULTIMONITORING concept
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"The safe city" conference at ALARM Kielce
Award-winning transmission - ULTIAIR. The judging panel of the Video Surveillance Conference and Exhibition ALARM in Kielce, Poland, awarded medal for ULTIAIR system, appreciating the role of signal transmission in the construction of modern CCTV systems.
ULTIAIR is a family of professional Access Points, developed for efficient long-term outdoor operation. The devices have been designed for creating efficient wireless IP CCTV and ISP networks. Integration of the transceiver and antenna into one weather-resistant housing enables the installer to perform the job quickly, without additional operations.
ULTIAIR devices are characterized by short delays and high throughput. They can be managed via WinBox utility or telnet. They operate in unlicensed 5 GHz band - no special permissions are needed. The devices can operate as client or base stations. In each device the RouterBoard with Mikrotik system has been put in outdoor housing of IP 66 class, which guarantees full protection against adverse weather conditions and corrosive environments (industry).
ULTIAIR - wireless transmission of signals from CCTV cameras
ULTIAIR is a family of professional Access Points, developed for efficient long-term outdoor operation. The devices have been designed for creating efficient wireless IP CCTV and ISP networks. Integration of the transceiver and antenna into one weather-resistant housing enables the installer to perform the job quickly, without additional operations.
ULTIAIR devices are characterized by short delays and high throughput. They can be managed via WinBox utility or telnet. They operate in unlicensed 5 GHz band - no special permissions are needed. The devices can operate as client or base stations. In each device the RouterBoard with Mikrotik system has been put in outdoor housing of IP 66 class, which guarantees full protection against adverse weather conditions and corrosive environments (industry).
ULTIAIR - wireless transmission of signals from CCTV cameras
ULTIAIR devices designed for wireless transmission of video surveillance data
have been awarded with the medal of the ALARM Kielce
have been awarded with the medal of the ALARM Kielce
233 m head down - the daredevils' tower. Bungee jumping from the television tower is a worldwide attraction. The jumps are advertised as the longest ones made from a place on the ground (another category is jumping from helicopters). So the location should not be surprising - it is in one of the world's capitals of gambling. A dose of risk is a natural thing both for visitors to the casinos and bungee jumpers...
Where is this tower? - The answer at the end of this issue.
A jump from the television tower (video)
Where is this tower? - The answer at the end of this issue.
A jump from the television tower (video)
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From this tower you can make the longest bungee jump - where is it?
The answer at the end of this issue.
MAC layer - a few words on WiFi - part 11. Point Coordination Function (PCF) is an optional mode of operation in 802.11 standard that can be used only in a fixed network infrastructure. It allows priority access to the medium - selected stations can transmit data without a struggle for the priority of channel access.
This mode requires a device that controls access to the medium, i.e. Point Coordinator (PC - usually an Access Point). While working in the PCF mode, the station indicated by the PC can send only one MPDU frame (MAC Protocol Data Unit). When the PCF mode is implemented, the time axis is divided into so-called super-frames.
The super-frame is divided into two periods: CFP (Contention Free Period) and CP (Contention Period). During the CFP period the access to the transmission medium is controlled by PCF, and in the CP period the control is taken by DCF.
The division of the time between the CFP and CP is performed by the Point Coordinator device (PC). Maximum duration and frequency of the CFP depend on the system parameters. The duration of the CP period should be long enough to send at least one MPDU frame.
The super-frame is initiated by the PC with management frame called Beacon. PC generates Beacon frames in regular time intervals. Beacon interval is known as Target Beacon Transmission Time (TBTT). The TBTT length (value) is broadcast in the Beacon frames. Each super-frame begins with Beacon frame which is used as time-stamp synchronizing local clocks of all the stations receiving this frame, as well as for providing information on capability and protocol details.
The figure below shows the network operations both during the PCF and DCF periods. Access to the channel is alternately switched between PCF and DCF, but the CFP period may decrease due to elongated CP.
This mode requires a device that controls access to the medium, i.e. Point Coordinator (PC - usually an Access Point). While working in the PCF mode, the station indicated by the PC can send only one MPDU frame (MAC Protocol Data Unit). When the PCF mode is implemented, the time axis is divided into so-called super-frames.
The super-frame is divided into two periods: CFP (Contention Free Period) and CP (Contention Period). During the CFP period the access to the transmission medium is controlled by PCF, and in the CP period the control is taken by DCF.
The division of the time between the CFP and CP is performed by the Point Coordinator device (PC). Maximum duration and frequency of the CFP depend on the system parameters. The duration of the CP period should be long enough to send at least one MPDU frame.
The super-frame is initiated by the PC with management frame called Beacon. PC generates Beacon frames in regular time intervals. Beacon interval is known as Target Beacon Transmission Time (TBTT). The TBTT length (value) is broadcast in the Beacon frames. Each super-frame begins with Beacon frame which is used as time-stamp synchronizing local clocks of all the stations receiving this frame, as well as for providing information on capability and protocol details.
The figure below shows the network operations both during the PCF and DCF periods. Access to the channel is alternately switched between PCF and DCF, but the CFP period may decrease due to elongated CP.
Composition of the super frame of PCF and DCF periods
The next part will describe the principle of PCF.
Price breakthrough in DVB-T receivers - Ferguson FT-8100 HD. Ferguson FT-8100 HD A99259 enables the user to receive terrestrial FTA channels compressed in MPEG-2 or MPEG-4 standards in SD or HD resolutions.
The USB 2.0 port placed on the front panel allows video recording (PVR function) on external data carriers, such as HDD or flash drives.
The USB 2.0 port placed on the front panel allows video recording (PVR function) on external data carriers, such as HDD or flash drives.
A99259 - front view
A99259 - rear view
Main features:
- Full compatibility with DVB-T standards (MPEG4, MPEG2)
- Separate lists of favorite programs, TV and radio
- Automatic or manual searching of available TV and radio channels
- Automatic PAL-NTSC-SECAM conversion
- Support of logical channel number (LCN)
- Support of teletext and subtitles
- Electronic Program Guide (EPG)
- Affordable price
Ethernet media converters - optical fiber in the home. Thanks to high-performance, high speed and trouble-free installation, ULTIMODE media converters are employed by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for the distribution of broadband Internet access to the end users. Below there is example of using ULTIMODE media converters in FTTC, FTTB, and FTTH networks.
Example of fiber optic network
- (1) ISP (Internet Service Provider)
- (2) FTTC (Fiber To The Curb) - the fiber is brought to the local network node located in the immediate vicinity of buildings (e.g. a housing estate of detached houses where the end users get signals converted to a different form)
- (3) FTTB (Fiber To The Building) - the fiber is brought to the building, but the end users get signals in a different form (usually 10/100 Ethernet)
- (4) FTTH (Fiber To The Home) - the optical fiber is brought directly to the end users (home or commercial)
Video servers and transcoders - use of computer network for transmission of analog video. The comparison of costs of the organization and maintenance of local monitoring centers and the cost of a central system gives a clear answer: the cost of centralization pays for itself within a few months to a year. Centralized system also allows for an effective management of security services in order to protect all the individual areas/objects.
Currently, the most common form of video transmission in local monitoring systems are analog signals. The integrator of analog CCTV systems with computer networks can usually employ the existing Ethernet infrastructure.
In order to transmit analog signals via such a network one should use the SED-2140T K2114 video servers and ACD-3100 K2413 transcoders - both from ACTi. They will create a "bridge" for transferring images, audio and control PTZ signals from/to cameras. The cost of the devices is the only expense of centralization of the system.
In the diagram below the analog cameras are far from the monitoring center. Use of coaxial cable would be costly or even impossible. Using the existing computer network installation, the modernization or expansion can be achieved at minimal cost.
Currently, the most common form of video transmission in local monitoring systems are analog signals. The integrator of analog CCTV systems with computer networks can usually employ the existing Ethernet infrastructure.
In order to transmit analog signals via such a network one should use the SED-2140T K2114 video servers and ACD-3100 K2413 transcoders - both from ACTi. They will create a "bridge" for transferring images, audio and control PTZ signals from/to cameras. The cost of the devices is the only expense of centralization of the system.
In the diagram below the analog cameras are far from the monitoring center. Use of coaxial cable would be costly or even impossible. Using the existing computer network installation, the modernization or expansion can be achieved at minimal cost.
Example application of ACTi video servers and transcoders
12 questions for those who plan to build CCTV installation - part 4. In the previous issues of the Newsletter we have presented the 12 questions which should be answered by the investor and CCTV designer before starting the project.
We have covered: types of threats, the choice of monitored areas and surveillance aims, and the required level of automation. The next step in specification of a CCTV system is the required data storage period and working conditions of the equipment.
We have covered: types of threats, the choice of monitored areas and surveillance aims, and the required level of automation. The next step in specification of a CCTV system is the required data storage period and working conditions of the equipment.
6. What is the required data storage period?
If the law does not impose a statutory duty for a minimum time of archiving CCTV recordings, the user has to set up this parameter on their own, taking into account the objectives of monitoring system and the expected time needed for analysis of the recorded material. Even a careful observation of the live images does not guarantee that all important events will be noticed, thus the importance of verification through the examination of archive material.
The volume of the archives depends on the number of cameras, image resolutions, frame rates and the compression method. These parameters determine the characteristics of the data stream that has to be recorded, first of all the data flow rate expressed in bits per second (bps). This parameter can be easily converted to the requirements for the storage capacity of the system. Modern CCTV systems allow to create virtually unlimited disk space.
ULTISYSTEM supports unlimited disk capacity of the server.
ULTIMAX DVRs of 500 and 700 series can support 8 hard drives, each of capacity up to 2 TB. In practice, it allows to record video from 16 channels (25 fps, 4CIF) for 42 days (24/24). Of course, reducing the recording parameters, the number of recorded channels and/or using motion detection, it is possible to multiply the length of the period many times.
The volume of the archives depends on the number of cameras, image resolutions, frame rates and the compression method. These parameters determine the characteristics of the data stream that has to be recorded, first of all the data flow rate expressed in bits per second (bps). This parameter can be easily converted to the requirements for the storage capacity of the system. Modern CCTV systems allow to create virtually unlimited disk space.
ULTISYSTEM supports unlimited disk capacity of the server.
ULTIMAX DVRs of 500 and 700 series can support 8 hard drives, each of capacity up to 2 TB. In practice, it allows to record video from 16 channels (25 fps, 4CIF) for 42 days (24/24). Of course, reducing the recording parameters, the number of recorded channels and/or using motion detection, it is possible to multiply the length of the period many times.
7. What are the environmental conditions?
Each device used in a CCTV system has its own environmental characteristics. Use of the device beyond the specified limits can cause improper operation or even damage to the equipment. The main parameters include temperature and humidity range, resistance to dust, water, electromagnetic interferences, resistance to mechanical damage (vandal proof enclosures). In the case of cameras, another important environmental parameter is sensitivity (operating light levels).
Best antennas for GSM repeaters. Trans-Data is a brand of high quality communication antennas. Trans-Data antennas have been designed with special reference to the propagation of radio waves in the operation bands in the main direction, as well as to minimization of the negative impact of side lobes (possible interference with indoor antennas). Thanks to high quality materials and very good performance, the antennas are characterized by reliable and stable parameters.
The distinguishing features of Trans-Data antennas:
- Solid construction and superb performance,
- Stable parameters,
- Robust designs,
- Strong and stable mounting systems,
- Careful quality control of raw materials, components, and final products
- Good value for money.
DIPOL offers the following Trans-Data antennas:
- TRANS-DATA GSM/DCS/UMTS DW3-B A741002 - in contrast to the above model, the antenna lead comes out of the side of the antenna body, so the device can be mounted on a concrete ceiling;
- TRANS-DATA GSM/DCS/UMTS KPV7.5/10 A741020 - this panel antenna is dedicated for GSM repeaters. It can be used as outdoor or indoor antenna. Ideal for use in long corridors;
How to share ADSL Internet connection with TP-LINK devices. Quick and easy way to share Internet connection delivered via telephone line (ADSL service) is use of the TD-W8901G N2902 router.
This device has a built-in ADSL modem compatible with ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+, Access Point compliant with tjhe IEEE802.11b/g standard, and 4-port switch. Its WAN port (R11) is to be directly connected with phone line. An important feature of TP-Link TD-W8901G is possibility of using QoS control mechanisms.
Depending on the type of telecommunications connection there are needed:
This device has a built-in ADSL modem compatible with ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+, Access Point compliant with tjhe IEEE802.11b/g standard, and 4-port switch. Its WAN port (R11) is to be directly connected with phone line. An important feature of TP-Link TD-W8901G is possibility of using QoS control mechanisms.
Depending on the type of telecommunications connection there are needed:
- for POTS - TD-W8901G (Annex A) N2902,
- for ISDN - TD-W8910GB (Annex B).
Application of TP-LINK TD-W8901G N2902 device for sharing ADSL Internet connection
supplied via analog telephone line (POTS).
ISDN line would require to use the TD-W8901GB device.
supplied via analog telephone line (POTS).
ISDN line would require to use the TD-W8901GB device.
Macau (Macao). The Macau Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China lies on the East coast of China (the western side of the Pearl River Delta), at the mouth of the Zhu Jiang River to the South China Sea. The region is inhabited by around 546 thousand people (July 2008). Its capital city is also called Macau. The city is situated on a narrow peninsula and has approximately 250 thousand residents.
Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Center - theater, conference rooms, and exhibition hall - are the additional attractions of this 388 m high tower.
The designers greatly expanded the functionality of a typical television tower. Broadcasting and viewing platforms are standard features of such constructions, but such broadcasting complex including theater, conference and exhibition space is a notable exception.
The distinctive silhouette of the tower is a notable feature of the landscape, being a strong incentive for organizing commercial events there.
Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Center - theater, conference rooms, and exhibition hall - are the additional attractions of this 388 m high tower.
The designers greatly expanded the functionality of a typical television tower. Broadcasting and viewing platforms are standard features of such constructions, but such broadcasting complex including theater, conference and exhibition space is a notable exception.
The distinctive silhouette of the tower is a notable feature of the landscape, being a strong incentive for organizing commercial events there.
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Macau - one of the world's capitals of gambling
We have written about:
Recording of road traffic with the use of ULTIAIR devices and IP CCTV cameras from ACTi. Failing to yield right of way and going over a red light at the crossroads are important reasons of collisions and accidents in large cities. It is often difficult to establish the fault of the driver who caused the collision, especially when there are no witnesses available...
- archive DWR of Feb. 23, 2009
How to combine two SAT signals into one cable - TWINSENDER. A common mistake made when wiring houses and apartments (or installing a satellite TV system) is putting only as many cables as needed at the moment. Most of satellite dishes have been installed with single LNBs, each connected with the sat receiver via single coaxial cable. However, modern sat receivers with recording functions (PVRs) have two tuners that require two independent signals...
- archive DWR of Jan. 12, 2009
DVRs designed for cooperation - ULTIMAX 104 and 204. New DVRs - ULTIMAX 104 M71040 and ULTIMAX 204 M72040 are good examples of professional equipment for a reasonable price. Similarly to well known 304 and 504 models, the new recorders use H.264 compression. In spite of small size, the DVRs can record 4CIF images at 6 fps from each channel. Their unique feature is capability of cooperation with multiple (even tens) DVRs of the same type or with any members of ULTIMAX family, in one video surveillance system...
- archive DWR of Aug. 24, 2009
Index of published issues
Recording of road traffic with the use of ULTIAIR devices and IP CCTV cameras from ACTi. Failing to yield right of way and going over a red light at the crossroads are important reasons of collisions and accidents in large cities. It is often difficult to establish the fault of the driver who caused the collision, especially when there are no witnesses available...
- archive DWR of Feb. 23, 2009
How to combine two SAT signals into one cable - TWINSENDER. A common mistake made when wiring houses and apartments (or installing a satellite TV system) is putting only as many cables as needed at the moment. Most of satellite dishes have been installed with single LNBs, each connected with the sat receiver via single coaxial cable. However, modern sat receivers with recording functions (PVRs) have two tuners that require two independent signals...
- archive DWR of Jan. 12, 2009
DVRs designed for cooperation - ULTIMAX 104 and 204. New DVRs - ULTIMAX 104 M71040 and ULTIMAX 204 M72040 are good examples of professional equipment for a reasonable price. Similarly to well known 304 and 504 models, the new recorders use H.264 compression. In spite of small size, the DVRs can record 4CIF images at 6 fps from each channel. Their unique feature is capability of cooperation with multiple (even tens) DVRs of the same type or with any members of ULTIMAX family, in one video surveillance system...
- archive DWR of Aug. 24, 2009
Index of published issues
