Network Advantage at IFSEC 2004

With over 100 companies operating in the Internet Protocol (IP) and networks spheres plying their wares, the all-new Network Advantage Exhibition for end users, consultants and installers promises to be a major draw at this year's IFSEC Exhibition (which runs from 10-13 May at the NEC, Birmingham). Particularly so now that event organiser CMP Information has finalised details of a dedicated seminar programme for visitors.

Offering a broad presentation on the benefits of network video, Baxall is set to consider the question: 'IP or not IP?' The CCTV specialist will also be using its session at Network Advantage to introduce the concept of its new software estimating tool (developed specifically to aid end users' decision making processes when deploying CCTV/network video).

The benefits of IP for surveillance monitoring will also be discussed at Context Security's seminar entitled 'Control of your complete monitored enterprise'. The company's talk will also cover the difficulties associated with managing a distributed or complex environment.

Transmission over broadband is the subject of two sessions. WebWayOne's presentation on 'Using IP networks for intruder alarms' (see this month's feature 'Sending out the signals' on pp21-22) will look at security system improve-ments and cost savings that can be realised from using digital Broadband technology. Meantime, TeleEye's session – entitled 'CCTV transmission over Broadband' – is slated to cover CCTV installation issues together with key points which end users must bear in mind (such as the hidden costs of Broadband).

Servision's seminar session 'Compression techniques in the security domain' reviews the various technologies available in today's marketplace, ranging from MPEG-2, MPEG-4, Real Networks, MPEG-4 Part 10 (JVT, ACV, H.264 and H.26L) through to Windows media (for example WM9 and WMV).

Finally, D Research is to offer an overview of the security problems that public transport providers have to face, in turn examining the effects that incidences of vandalism and crime have on the operating authorities and the special requirements needed for mobile video systems.

D Research's talk will also explore the advantages and opportunities associated with remote access to live video transmission.

CCTV specialist Panasonic has relaunched its Premier Installer scheme to recognise quality companies within the installation sector by formalising what has been a largely unregulated relationship between installers and end users.

The scheme identifies professional security companies who consistently offer a high level of service and excellent client support. This accreditation system ensures that end users receive the same degree of technical expertise they would do if dealing direct with the manufacturer. The latest entry in SMT's series on the scheme can be found on pp24-26 of this month's edition.