PSINovember2017

VIDEO MANAGEMENT
We have talked
regularly about the
installation
technology being fit
for purpose and this
is no different for the
software platform
behind the cameras
Wavestore’s open platform VMS is
compatible with third-party
servers, or pre-installed on
Wavestore’s NVRs and HVRs
(from previous page)
out new platforms as specialised VMS systems
such as those offered by the likes of Milestone et
al can take a security installation on to a whole
other level with the ‘open’ nature of the software,
allowing the integration of technology from a host
of manufacturers, not just the camera company.
In fact openness has been a major factor in the
growth of integrated security systems over the
years, with VMS providers giving manuafacturers
all the help they need in developing systems that
can go onto the platform thus widening its
potential range of applications. While there has
been a bit of confusion about open standards
(ONVIF, PSIA), the willingness of the specialised
VMS developers to offer software development
kits etc to other companies has led to a much
more flexible operating systems that the original
graphical user interfaces (GUIs) of the past and
the proprietary offerings from camera companies.
An open platform system is ideal because it
will not present barriers to developing and
upgrading your systems as a business expands or
changes direction whichis why VMS companies
recognise the benefits of working with third
parties.
One software package that talks to a range of
devices is of more value than having disparate
systems working independently of each other
resulting in an installation that cannot develop or
give the performance and results that the
customer wants. And it’s not just about going
forwards either – there is a hefty amount of legacy
built into VMS packages so that existing
equipment could well be compatible with
software that is bang up to date – not something
you would normally think of when it comes to
software.
Don’t think that this is some new development
either, back in 2011 Genetec put together a White
Paper on the need for an open VMS solution and it
still resonates true, stating:
“Even today, with all the technologies
available, the industry is struggling to fully
succeed at building security solutions that fulfil
the users’ true needs—a cohesive video and
access control system that is efficient, nonproprietary,
and cost effective. With the recent
advancements in software technologies, and the
ongoing discussions between manufacturers,
integration has become a popular substitute for
traditional interfacing. However, even integration
has its limits. The answer can be found in a single
software that manages access control, intrusion
and video through non-proprietary security
appliances. This next-generation security platform
provides unity between video, access and
intrusion systems with built-in reporting and
alarm management functionalities. It goes above
and beyond the basic functionalities of
interfacing, integration and even PSIMs, offering
end-users an efficient, flexible and cost-effective
option to system unification.”
As with many installations the key to selecting
the correct VMS for the job will be subject to the
“what do you want the system to do today, and in
the future, and how much do you want to pay for
it?” equation as with many contracts.
With the continual development of new
technologies such as body worn cameras, remote
monitoring and increasingly complex video data
analytics, VMS selection is just as important as
camera selection in getting the desired end result
for your customer which, in turn is the desired
end result for you.
The choice of the right VMS for the job is likely
to come down to couple of factors: the size of the
installation, the complexity of the application,
what the customers wants to do with the footage
and, probably the most limiting factor when it
comes to licences, the budget. We have talked
regularly about the installation technology being
fit for purpose and this is no different for the
software platform behind the cameras.
Another of the new factors that need
considering when looking at VMS technology is
the requirement for cloud storage and access.
Such systems enable users to login from
anywhere in the world and share access to their
system, saving hours in port-forwarding setup
and coordination via the cloud.
It is likely that you’ll have your favourite VMS
technology to specify for certain types and sizes
of jobs however if the need arises for a look at an
unfamiliar system or a move to another supplier
completely check and see if there are any free
trial licences available for the platform so you can
try it out for yourself.
VMS is one of those technologies that will
always be developing new versions so next time
you’re at a trade show it might be worth having a
look at the latest offerings in case the next
customer’s requirements open up a new set of
demands.
36
www.psimagazine.co.uk