User:Hfliaa/Integration of access control and surveillance systems

Integrating access control and surveillance system is the solution of combining various hardware and software products into a single platform. It allows users to monitor / control critical situations in a single interface. The integrated solutions provide higher security levels for the organization. The system can integrate and interlink different kinds of security sub-systems, including CCTV, motion detection, card access and keypad access control system, watchman tour system, door monitoring system, video doorphone system, security alarm devices, carpark management system and any other security systems, for a specific building so that the security operator can master the control of the entire security installation via a single administration terminal in Buildiing Management Office. The system is able to provide monitor and control independent activities simultaneously at different locations. All security signals, both audio and visual, can also be transmitted back to the administration terminal for master monitoring and override control.

In general, integrated access control and surveillance system has a central workstation and other seperate workstations with software programme for management, setting and monitoring of the security system. The central workstation together with its server and associated equipment is normally accommodated in the Building Management Office. The server should have hot standby server with zero down time changeover to make sure that the security system would not be suspended.

Access control restricts and authorizes access of specific locations. surveillance system provides monitoring

1.description & background (MURice, Kayden)

2.classification of system (access control & surveillance system) (nick, William)

acces: watchman tour, door monitoring,carpark management

sur: video door pone, security alarm, motion detection

3.integration (Steven, Isaac)

4.application (Steven, Isaac)

5.pro (Eric, Alice)

6.cons (Eric, Alice)

7.further development & innovative design (Kate, Alice, Kayden)

8.debat (Kate)

30/3 meetings review materials

13/4 meetings for final review

18/4 first draft deadline

Access Control System
Access Control system refers to methods of security which control access both phsysically and virtually unless authentication credentials are provided. It is applied to control who and when the occanpants or persons enter an area, location or building by using a secure authentication methods.

Access Control system typically consists of locked gates, doors or barriers which can be opened using identity authentication methods such access cards, pin codes, biomertric authentication or smartphones to allow entry to a building or certain area. This technology can also provide data to track how a building or site is being used, such as frequency and time-usage trends.

Classification of Access control system
Access control system could be divided into a various different types, which are available for use by various situation and installation constraints. These main types included:


 * 1) Manual access control
 * 2) Mechanical access control
 * 3) Electronic access control
 * 4) Mechatronic Access Control
 * 5) Physical access systems

For Manual access control, people are used to securing specific access points, such as doormen, stewards or customer service agents. They identify people who want to enter the premises and decide based on predefined criteria whether or not they can – for example, a person presenting a ticket before entering a concert venue. This is often practiced at highly frequented access points such as cinemas, theatres, zoos and theme parks where it is difficult to get information from people beforehand and identification is notrequired.

For Mechanical access control scenarios, mechanical technology is used to secure an access point. A common example of this would be a cylinder lock with a suitable key – so this would be used typically in homes or garages.

Electronic access control is mainly adopted in the buildings/sites where advanced security is required. A person need to present the identity authenication, such as a card, chip or fobs with right credentials, in order to be allowed to pass through the required area or location. The system also keeps record of who has entered and left the area with precise time records. Electronic access system could be divided mainly into 2 cataglories, which are Standalone systems and Online systems:

- Standalone systems means the basis of access permissions is located locally in the independent component. These systems are not wired, and common adopted for single access point. Less installation requirements are needed, which could save time on the construction sites and allow modicafication of components easily. It is also suitable for the construction sites where access control would not be possible down to its location due to limitation of the existing site infrastructure. An examples of standalone components include Digital Cylinders, Mechatronic (Electronic and Mechanical combination) Cylinders, and Electronic Door Locks.

- Online systems is common used for construction sites with high access rates. The systems are wired and connected to the central monitoring system's access control software, such as Building Management and Energy Power Management Systems. Comparing with standalone systems, online systems could achieve high-security levels and the real-time message exchange between the components and the software. Many other systems, such as an alarm system, elevator/lift control, etc, could also be integraded in the online systems for monitoring.

Mechatronic systems combines both electronic and mechanical access control system for delivering higher secure solutions for the buildings. An example for illustration is that an electronic system first checks the card/ other media used at the first stage. After the right credential is provided, a key can be used on the mechanical lock to open the door. The combined systems is widely adopted in offices with high-security requirements, private residential buildings, and server rooms.

Physical access systems play an important role in access control and security – no matter how high quality a lock or access control system is, if the door or physical access system can be overpassed then it is of little importance. Thus, the physical access system must be viewed holistically and in line with safety requirements. Examples of physical access systems include:


 * Sensor barriers
 * Half-height turnstiles
 * Full-height turnstiles
 * Tripod turnstiles
 * Revolving doors
 * Security interlocks

Whether residential or commercial, access control systems are vital to protect premises from unauthorized persons. It is important to take a broad look at the security required, and consult with a leading manufacturer of access control solutions to ensure the safety of a place, its occupants and the items inside.

Access Control system components
An access control system typical consists of :


 * 1) Control panel/Controller for access control
 * 2) An entry where access-control is required (such as a door, turnstile, parking gate, elevator, or other physical barrier)
 * 3) A reader near the entry
 * 4) Locking hardware (such as electric door strikes and electromagnetic locks)
 * 5) A magnetic door switch for monitoring door position
 * 6) Request-to-exit (RTE) devices for allowing egress (such as door release button)

Types of authentication


A physical/tangible object, a piece of knowledge, or a facet of a person's physical being that enables an individual access to a given physical facility or computer-based information system could be used for authentication. Typically, the credential could be a pin code, access card, biomertric datas or latest technologies such as softwares/hardwares integrated in smartphone. The credential comes with access permissions and can be entered into the system, swiped, or scanned using reader to grant access through electrically-locked doors. Authenticating method may be classified as below:

1. Authentication via password


 * Pin Code Keypad: Typing into a keypad the correct pin code or password grants you access and entering the incorrect pin denies access into the house/premises.

2. Authentication via Access card

 * RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is most frequently adopted wireless radio frequency authentication technology frequently used in access control and door entry systems, expecially ID keyfobs and cards. Radio waves with various frequencies (available in both 126kHz and the more secure 13.56MHz) is utilized to read and capture data storedd on tag to provide designated information for the subject or individal, which allows authorised/registered user to enter an area.13.56MHz RFID tags.jpg


 * Magnetic Stripe card is a type of card capable of storingd data by modifying the magnetism of iron-based magnetic particles on a band of magnetic material on the card.

3. Biomertric Authentication

 * Face Recognition: Face Recognition is increasinlgy adopted for highly secure authentication and access control system. The face recognition-based access control system utiltized AI algorithms to convert the image of the face into a series of 'co-ordinates', which accurately pinpoints the distances between eyes, nose, mouth, ears, etc and create a unique identifying string of numbers which is stored in the system's database. Each individual need to pre-register their face scan for idenity verification. The access control end-point devices, which integrated a high resolution camera, will provide a live face scan of visitors at the door or gate.


 * Iris Recognition: Iris recognition is used for highly secure autentication. Similiar to the working principle of Face Recognition, user are required to scan their iris for creating identiying string into the system's database. The high resolution scanner integrated in the end-point devices will provide a iris scan of visitors at the door or gate.


 * Fingerprint Scanning: This form of biometric authentication uses a finger print reader to confirm authentication via the users unique fingerprint.

4. Authentication via Smartphone


 * QR (Quick Response) Code Scanning: QR codes are ideal authentication option for single-use, temporay access permission and time-limited access permission situations (such as parcel deliveries or service staff). QR codes works similar to conventional bar codes, and are able to store more data and flexible. in the case of access control via QR codes, a unique QR code will be generated with a limited time period and number of uses and sent to vistior's smartphone/PC software, which will be scanned at the access control endpoint device for confirming access right within the specified time and criteria.




 * Bluetooth (Bluetooth Low Energy): Bluetooth is one of widely adopted keyless entry option via smarth phone. By using smart phone with installed app for wireless transmission of access credentials and Bluetooth access proximity reader for receiving signal, the devices commnunicates with the reader and exchanges the security key for autherntication and opening the lock to allow entry.


 * NFC (near field communication): NFC is a next generation of RFID contactless communcation method, which works by sending information over radio waves within a distance of 4cm or less. It has one chip that operates as one part of a wireless link when another chip activates it, and requires another device to receive the signal. For access control usage, NFC reader technology will be integraded in the door intercom devices and smartphone will act as a 'keyless' identification device.

Surveillance System
Surveillance system refers to the method of monitoring the activities or information of an individual object by information gathering, influencing, managing and directing. The common method to observe objects from designated location or distance with electronic equipment such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), internet traffic, human intelligence gathering and postal interception.

Common application for government use includes Prevention of crime, protection of person or object, Investigation of crime, etc. Liberal democracies in some countries may propose a bill to restrict the governmental and private use of surveillance systems.

Video Surveillance System Components
Video surveillance system / CCTV is a system containing the use of cameras, monitor units, and Hard Disk Recorder and multiplexer. Either analog or digital cameras shall be selected in a system based on various designs and applications for the system.

The systems can be installed in both interior and exterior areas of a building and other sectors including Transporation, educational institution, leisure and entertainment area, commercial mall, etc. The Video Surveillance System can always operate continuously, can be designed to record in response to movement, or set to record in specific duration or period of time in day.

The cameras may be obvious and placed outdoors to prevent crime and identify criminals after crimes, or the camera can be hidden more to record evidence with fewer chances of being destroyed. However, it is crucial to note that the laws regulate the location of security cameras for reasons, and the statutory requirements may vary in different places or countries.

Footage can be live monitored by security / police in a central security center. The users can monitor remotely if an IP camera is included in the system and provided by a monitoring company, the images can be recorded and stored by a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or Network Video Recorder (NVR) for reviewing the record images after crimes or needs.

Finally, video surveillance systems are closed, which means the video signals are not broadcast. Therefore, others couldn't read and record the content and only authorized users can access the recorded images.

Types of Cameras
There are a variety of cameras that can be selected in video surveillance systems. All the camera options will either be the analog or digital / internet protocol (IP) category:


 * Analog: traditional cameras usually provide lower resolution images and required connection by coaxial cable for each camera to the DVR and separate power from wires connection is needed. Moreover, the cameras' location must be near the DVR for better quality footage, so that the range of vision for analog camera is smaller than the digital / IP camera and more cameras are required by applying analog camera in the same area of space. However, the cost of an analog camera is cheaper, and it can provide reasonable prices for the end user, and network's bandwidth would not be occupied by these camera design.
 * Digital / IP: digital cameras are commonly used Internet Protocol Camera which provide much higher resolution images than traditional analog cameras. The IP camera connects to NVR with only one cable through the power over ethernet (PoE) switch, extra power source is not required . The images transmitted through the cable would not be degraded during the digital enlarge and maintain its quality. The drawback of IP cameras is that more bandwidth from network and storage for recorded images are required, the cost of IP camera is more expensive than the traditional analog one. Some of the IP cameras provide the convenience of being able to connect to Wi-Fi networks, which means it can be remotely accessed and more hackable. As a result, security issue shall be another concern and required to pay more for the security features.

For both analog and digital cameras used nowadays, more and more additional features are added such as multiple direction cameras, camera can capture quality images in limited light environment, camera with long-distance capturing functionality, etc.

The specialized camera existing in the market nowadays:
 * Internal / External Dome Cameras: Most used for indoor / outdoor surveillance due to the ability to blend in with the surroundings. Dome cameras can be mounted to a wall and usually mounted on the ceiling.
 * PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) Cameras: these cameras allow active monitoring and live surveillance, the security guard can pan and tilt the PTZ camera by its camera mount or zoom the lens farther or closer.
 * Bullet Cameras: the enclosed casing is long and cylindrical and usually weather resisting housing, which can be placed in an outdoor area. These cameras also provide long-distance views.
 * Thermal Image / Infrared Cameras: apply in airports, seaports, and other premises that contain critical infrastructure. These cameras can provide 24/7 surveillance monitoring and they can capture objects moving in darkness areas.
 * High Definition Cameras: providing high resolution record images that are used in high-risk locations such as casinos and banks.

Video Surveillance System Monitoring
There are several ways to monitor the footage produced by a video surveillance system. The most traditional method of surveillance monitoring is by security guard in security control center who is viewing the live footage on the multiple images in monitors / displays units. For analog systems, the cameras, DVRs and display units are connected by the coaxial cable, there are only monochrome screens for the monitor.

Nowadays, the majority of security cameras being digital / IP cameras, the images transmitted by the owner's network. Although the recorded images can still be monitored in the security center by the security guard, the recording can also be accessed via computers and mobile devices anywhere. Moreover, some of the cameras are able to wait until detecting movement and sending SMS messages to authorized personnel to check the live footage.

Recording Video in Surveillance Systems
Firstly, a CCTV camera captures the movement and begins the recording of the footage, the recorded images can be reviewed when necessary. If the images being recorded for every second, the amount of the storage would be a concern for the system owner.

For applying analog cameras in the system, the footage will be transmitted though the coaxial cable to the DVRs and record the video images from analog camera into digital format. Once the hard disk of the DVR is full, older images will be replaced by newer ones and starting with the oldest images.

For system using digital / IP cameras, DVR will be replaced by NVR. The IP cameras will be connected to the NVR by network cable or network switch. The recorded images will be encrypted and stored in a hard drive and can be reviewed by the authorized personnel through the connected monitor display units in the security control center or even the web browser or mobile app in any location.

New Technologies applied in Video Surveillance Systems
Modern Tecnologies have combined with video surveillance systems and greatly enhanced its capability and be more convenience.

The video surveillance cameras are now able to offer facial recognition, smart cameras such as PTZ cameras with smart tracking that could follow the objects until the object is out of the camera's range. Thermal cameras, night vision, HD full color and others different smart technologies that allow cameras to send immediate signal and interact with the security guard in security center on the specific situation.

Integration of Access Control and Surveillance System
The integration of the access control and the surveillance system in building management generally refers to manned and unmanned monitoring and control of multiple locations and components using digitalized network systems. Basic components of an integrated access control system consist of: a central host computer or server, control panels or system controllers connected to the host computer, and peripheral devices such as card readers, door contacts, sirens and sensors connected to the control panels. The linkage of these components replies on a network using IP protocols and standard structured cabling.

Network Connection Systems
IP protocols and power-over-Ethernet (POE) are commonly used as a network connection in building access control and surveillance system. By eliminating the requirements for local power, IP-based and POE-based systems can provide direct network connection by supplying extra-low voltage (ELV) power to the access control and surveillance devices such as card readers, door locks, and burglar sensors. This make the connection of a broader range of management tools and support available, in a way that is more reliable and cost-effective.

Application
Example of Integrated Access Control and Surveillance System:

Physical Access Control
Administrate the physical access of personnel to a facility of specific locations within the facility. Application of physical access control includes:
 * Access of doors, elevators, car parks
 * Access control based on hierarchy of management and occupancy levels
 * Maintain a full auditable trail of all access events at multiple locations of the building

Visitor Management System
The authorization of temporary access right to visitors or contractor for a specific period of time. By granting the visitors or contractors temporary credentials such as temporary access cards and Automatically generated QR code, a visitor management system can speed up the repeating and time-consuming registration and verification processes. Function of a visitor management system includes:


 * Pre-registration of expected visitors
 * Data of visitor population and traffics
 * Access rights and special approvals for visitors
 * Notification mechanism for the property owner upon visitor arrivals

Data Centre and Server Racks
Applicable for locations such as data centres, laboratories, financial data storage, government storage for sensitive classified documents. Common functions include:


 * Physical access control and monitoring of data centres and server racks
 * Online access control
 * Supports automatic email and SMS alarm notifications
 * Fail save locking in case of power failure
 * CCTV monitoring and recording, with video analytics