August 2017
I
N
T
Softech
L
B-Free Technology Limited Most Innovative Mobility Solution – Hong Kong
The Benefits of Green Power Latent Stella Technology Limited invests more than 20% of their annual turnover into research and development. Following the company’s success in receiving the award title, Excellence in Technology – China, we interviewed Dr. Mak to find out more about the company’s approach to green and efficient power.
g
Best Time & Attendance Systems Specialists 2017 - Elf Productivity Ltd
Editor’s Note
, Welcome to the August edition of Softech INTL Magazine, covering the latest news and information from the leading companies in the software and technology market. In this month’s issue, on the 2nd August, the global industry-leading provider of outsourced broadcast and live event production solutions, NEP GROUP, Inc. announced that they have acquired Bexel Global Broadcast Solutions, a subsidiary of Vitec Group plc. Elsewhere in this edition, Chief Executive Officer of Latent Stella Technology Limited, Dr. Hin Yu, Mark Mak spoke to us about the company’s approach to green and efficient power. Finally, at the start of this month, ThirdEye Gen, Inc. announced the development of a fully integrated Augmented Reality (AR) solution that includes the ‘X’1 Smartglass and AR software applications. I truly hope you enjoy reading this insightful issue.
Jessie Daykin, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 725 6842 Email: jessica.daykin@ai-globalmedia.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
2 Softech / August 2017
Contents
, 5. News 8.
Latent Stella Technology Company Limited:
The Benefits of Green Power
10. B-Free Technology: Hong Kong Technology Awards - Most Innovative Mobility Solution – Hong Kong 12. Archiware GmbH:
5 Reasons Why Archiving Is Now More Helpful Than Ever - Marc M. Batschkus
15. NEP Group, Inc.: NEP Acquires Bexel 16. GDPR: GDPR and Cyber Security: The Elephant Herd in the Room 18. Data Artisans: Data Artisans to Host Third Annual Flink Forward Berlin 20. NAVEX Global®: Benefits in Heightened Compliance Environment 22. ThirdEye Gen, Inc: ThirdEye Gen Releases Augmented Reality Smartglass 24. Frost & Sullivan: Integrated Asset Management Services Will Be Game Changers in Global Test and Measurement 26. nClouds: nClouds Hires Former IBM DevOps and Cloud Executive as New Chief Marketing Officer 28. March Networks®: Video Surveillance for Bus, Light and Passenger Rail Fleets
Softech / August 2017 3
NEWS
, The Internet of Things (IoT) market in India holds tremendous potential for telecommunications (telecom) operators, as connectivity is the backbone of IoT deployment. With the country moving towards a digital economy, the growing adoption of Cloud in IoT services, shifting of focus to industrial IoT (IIoT), rising market of M2M communication and increasing trend of wearable technology applications are among the major factors driving the IoT market in India. As a critical player in this value chain, telecom companies can build new revenue streams. Tele-
Telecom Service Providers Must Explore New Revenue Streams Key growth opportunities lie in manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, retail, and government verticals, according to research from Frost & Sullivan’s digital transformation team.
4 Softech / August 2017
NEWS
, com participants will need to step up and move beyond connectivity to play a larger role in this IoT wave to capture the growing market and bring in a transformation in their traditional business model.
•
High applicability across horizontals like analytics, service provision, security, and consulting in major verticals, such as manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and government/public sector units;
“Forming strong partnerships, developing platforms, providing innovative services and adopting a consultative approach toward enterprises for embracing IoT should be the focus areas for communication service providers to cash in on the IoT opportunity effectively,” said Omkar Malage, senior consulting analyst, Digital Transformation (ICT) Practice, Frost & Sullivan. “The top areas for IoT deployment in India are smart cities, connected healthcare, telematics and connected manufacturing or Industry 4.0.”
•
Increased demand for vehicle tracking, automatic meter reading, and point-ofsale (POS) solutions;
•
Deployment of citizen services as part of the central government’s smart cities initiative;
•
Demand for solutions addressing regional challenges, such as energy management, traffic management, and waste management and;
•
Growing uptake of low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) connectivity technologies, such as LoRa and SigFox.
The Internet of Things Market in India provides insights on the Indian IoT value chain, demand in key industry verticals, and opportunities for telecom providers. In addition to a comparison of global trends, it offers an analysis of strategic partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions, enabling regional and international providers to accelerate their growth in the IoT market. Some of the participants covered in the research are Cisco, Reliance Unlimit, Jasper, IBM, Tata Communications, Vodafone, Bharti Airtel, Altizon and Covacsis. The IoT market has the potential to reach $16.8 billion by 2021, following speedy implementation of IIoT and government smart city projects. To harness this potential, telecom providers are trying to evolve as end-to-end solution providers while developing capabilities to provide post-sales support across the entire value chain. In addition to intensifying interest from IT service providers, vertical solution providers, and telecom operators looking to capitalise on the IoT platform, factors driving IoT growth in India include: •
Shift in value potential from connectivity, sensors, and hardware devices to software, platform, analytics, and security;
IoT growth strategies will evolve as telecom service providers enter new vertical markets, including healthcare, retail, manufacturing and fleet management, and create strategic partnerships with system integrators, IT service providers and vertical-specific platform and app providers to improve time to market, last-mile connectivity, cost efficiencies, and customer service experience. “Lack of awareness on IoT use cases, poor availability of the talent pool, not enough players in the device ecosystem and data security concerns can prove to be the major inhibitors in growth and development of IoT services in India,” noted Malage. “Service providers need to conduct more IoT events and hackathons to generate awareness and nurture the talent pool, while focusing on developing partnerships with device vendors, platform providers and application developers. Partnerships are going to be the key in IoT success”
ww2.frost.com
Concurrent Introduces Media Delivery Springboard Concurrent, a global leader in storage, protection, transformation and delivery of visual assets, on July 26 introduced its new Media Delivery Springboard solutions, a cost-effective means for small and mediumsized independent cable operators to ingest, store, transform and deliver video-ondemand (VOD) and live-streaming content. Traditional content delivery networks come with high startup costs, which present a challenge for small and mid-size operators that may lack the necessary capital to invest in large-scale infrastructure. Concurrent’s new Media Delivery Springboard helps independent cable operators with smaller budgets and limited resources remain competitive with an entry-level video delivery solution requiring minimal infrastructure investment. There are three options available, including a VOD solution for QAM-based set-top boxes, a VOD and live-streaming solution for IP devices and a content delivery network solution that supports both QAM and IP devices. Each one offers comprehensive services and provides the ability to scale as capacity requirements grow. “The Media Delivery Springboard provides unparalleled value for independent cable operators without compromising on quality,” said Scott Ryan, Concurrent’s Sr. Vice President of Products and Chief Marketing Officer. “We’re proud to
equip these operators with a premium-grade revenue-generating platform for the advanced services their customers desire.” The solutions provide a seamless migration path for increasing services and storage as operator subscriber bases grow. Embedded content adaptation features such as just-in-time packaging, dynamic DRM encapsulation, and manifest manipulation provide video service operators a feature-rich solution with uncompromising performance, scale and multi-service capabilities. Media Delivery Springboard is fully supported by Concurrent’s 24/7 support team and software troubleshooting capabilities, including application logging for key events and remote support for troubleshooting, maintenance and software upgrades.
Visit www.concurrent.com for further information.
Softech / August 2017 5
NEWS
, SEP, which also owns TEM provider Telesoft, has acquired MDSL based on its explosive growth rate, global reach, advanced technology platform, market leading customer service and high quality of employees. SEP will combine its Telesoft investment into MDSL. SEP has owned Telesoft for nearly one year and has experienced strong success in growing the business and scaling operations. The combination of the MDSL and Telesoft organisations will increase scale and global delivery capability while continuing to emphasize the core value of outstanding customer service. The two companies will be coming together under the MDSL brand. MDSL’s management team will be comprised of Chairman Ben Mendoza, CEO Charles Layne, CTO Simon Mendoza, CFO Tamara Saunders, COO Daman Wood and Chief Architect Thierry Zerbib.
Sumeru Equity Partners Acquires MDSL MDSL, a global leader in Technology Expense Management solutions, announced on July 31that Sumeru Equity Partners has acquired the company and made a strategic investment in support of the company’s continuing growth, strengthening its position as a global TEM leader.
6 Softech / August 2017
“MDSL has been succeeding in winning world-class enterprise customers. We are surpassing significantly the growth rate of the TEM market, based on our outstanding customer service, advanced software platform and unique global capabilities. We have recognised that our new business growth would soon outpace our organic capabilities,” said MDSL Chairman Ben Mendoza. “We have been seeking a partner that shares our vision for TEM across all of IT spend and prioritises the importance of guaranteed delivery and exceptional service levels for new and existing customers. We see SEP and Telesoft as ideal partners because of our shared focus on innovation and customer care.
NEWS
, As is the case with MDSL, Telesoft has a very loyal customer base and our markets are highly complementary. Having the financial backing of SEP will enable us to continue to delivery consistent and high quality services to our customer base. We will be stronger and even more capable together.” With the addition of Telesoft, MDSL leads the industry in overall customer satisfaction as well as technology innovation and becomes the global leader in recurring technology expense management software and managed services. The company will operate under a single, global operational model and will offer two distinct software platforms targeted for two separate market segments-one serving global enterprises with a pure SaaS model and the other serving US-based organisations with a hybrid, on premise license or managed services model. MDSL intends to maintain a commitment to both platforms with a distinct product roadmap that will last over 10 years. “We strongly believe that this combination is very attractive for the TEM market and remain whole-heartedly committed to maintaining our industry-leading customer-focused approach,” said CEO Charles Layne. “Our sincere expectation from the outset is that this partnership will immediately bring benefits to our customers. We know customers will experience continued, uninterrupted high-quality service as there is no requirement to merge technology platforms or move customers from one platform to another. This combination of two growing, innovative companies represents a joining of forces to create a market leader as opposed to a rescue of one by the other. Our strong alignment of values-bold innovation and investment, acting as One Team, and unparalleled customer execution and transparency-will be demonstrably visible to the market.” Today, MDSL employs over 350 individuals globally with locations
in North America, Europe and Asia. The company serves hundreds of blue-chip enterprise and public sector customers representing billions of dollars of technology, communications / mobility and market data spend. “Enterprise and public sector customers are spending trillions of dollars on technology and communications products and services annually, and this spend is only trending upward and becoming more complex as more categories emerge such as cloud and Internet of Things services,” said George Kadifa and Sanjeet Mitra, managing directors at SEP and MDSL board of directors. “Collectively, we have been investing for years to ensure that we maintain the highest levels of customer service delivery and offer a set of market-leading, forward-thinking products that address new areas of technology spend. We believe MDSL is well-positioned to provide customers best-in-market solutions for their global technology expense management requirements across spend footprints of all sizes.” The transaction closed in July 2017 and financial details were not disclosed. Smith & Williamson provided financial advisory services to MDSL, and Mooreland Partners provided financial advisory services to SEP and Telesoft. “This is certainly a positive for the telecom management industry and for the domestic and global organisations looking for solutions,” commented Tim Lybrook, CEO of telecom management information services company, AOTMP. “Knowing both providers and their client bases very well, we are excited to see these two-customer service driven companies combine their unique and complementary strengths to become a clear industry leader.”
For more information, visit www.mdsl.com & www.sumeruequity.com
Traka Joins Forces With Edesix to Protect Body Cameras Within UK Prisons The industry leader in intelligent key cabinets and locker systems has partnered with Edesix following the company’s contract win as preferred supplier to all UK prisons. Traka designed a bespoke locker system specifically for Edesix, which not only ensures body cameras are safely secured, but also that all equipment is charged and ready to use whilst in storage. The locker system has capability to download all footage as and when required and share it with Edesix’s Video Management System. The unique locker system also presents restricted access, by authorised personnel only. Andy Burke, business development manager of Edesix commented: “Our organisations collaborated well to produce a Body Worn Camera storage system which met the needs of Her Majesty’s Prison Service by utilising pre-existing technology. “The result is optimised camera asset management and process automation. Edesix and Traka can now offer an all-encompassing solution to the UK Prison Service that is secure and simple to use, requires minimal staff intervention and which is targeted at the officer experience, making it efficient and effective to add Body Worn Cameras to their existing asset management process.”
Tom Smith, market development manager, of Traka added: “Body Worn Video, as offered by Edesix, undoubtedly saves lives, protects property and speeds up the resolution time of investigations; however, as a stand-alone system, Edesix’s solution had not been integrated into already available asset management systems within the UK Prison service. “The bespoke Traka solution instantly eliminates the issues around camera whereabouts, and integrates Body Worn Systems into the known process for issuing sundries. This, in turn, allows Prison staff to focus on their duties safely and securely, allowing the benefits of body cameras to be fully utilised.” Traka provides intelligent key management and equipment management access control to better protect important assets - resulting in improved efficiency, reduced downtime, less damage, fewer losses, lower operating costs and significantly less administration. For more information visit www.edesix.com
Softech / August 2017 7
,
ISC17016
The Benefits of Green Power Latent Stella Technology Limited invests more than 20% of their annual turnover into research and development. Following the company’s success in receiving the award title, Excellence in Technology – China, we interviewed Dr. Hin Yu, Mark Mak, Chief Executive Officer of Latent Stella to find out more about the company’s approach to green and efficient power. One of the greatest implementation of Latent Stella Technology Limited is a solar thermal hot water and cold air return heat exchange farming system, that has been successfully demonstrated in Jiangmen, China. Dr. Mak from the Latent Stella Technology Limited begins the interview, by underlining how this system works, adding how the company seeks to improve the efficiency of their products. “The system composite of green power, efficient solar energy system and air source heat pump as the energy source of heating and air-cooling. By achieving the sun - air - water green ecological environment, the entire system can reduce the power consumption up to 70%. In winter, the composition system supplies hot water, while solar energy bears little heating load. The heat will be transferred in the coil pipe throughout the farming area. “In summer, the air-source heat pump is water-cooled air-conditioning system, used as a cooling system, which can maintain the indoor temperature within our desired range. “In line with the company’s mission of providing its customers with environmentally
8 Softech / August 2017
friendly energy solutions, we are also researching how to improve the efficiency of our products and thereby lower their power demands. We design our products to be long-lasting and easy to maintain, leading to a long product lifecycle. In addition to durability, features such as recyclability and the outward appearance of our products, have become increasingly important focus areas for testing. Therefore, we work in close cooperation with industrial designers, when designing any new products. As consumers become more concerned about the environment and sustainability, being ‘green’ is a good way to keep a company in the ‘black’, Dr. Mak explains. Companies who are interested in environmental friendly products or systems, come to Latent Stella Technology Company Limited who offer a tailor made and rational system, as well as home appliances. Dr. Mak reveals the company’s ongoing strategy, including any key principles they adhere to in this vein, as well as their approach when undertaking a new client or project. “Green energy is any energy that reduces the impact on the environment, by decreasing waste or reducing the use of fossil fuels. Wind turbines,
electric cars and solar energy are examples. Our business partner frequently can save money, by instituting green policies and some green energy remodelling projects, that can make their business eligible for a tax deduction. We are focusing to the countries that can get subsidies in green energy projects, so that customers are more willing and tempted to get involved.
process will go smoothly.”
“One of the most critical parts of the company’s onboarding process, is assessing our new clients existing campaigns. Understanding what they do and don’t have in place should be used to develop a scope of work. We assign teams of five to every new client. The team consists of a marketing officer, a coordinator, an engineer analyst, a designer and a project manager. The better our team can relate to the client’s team, the smoother the onboarding process will go.
“To be a successful company, I believe that reliability is the most important element. Reliability is doing what you said you would do, when you said you were going to do it. The second most important element, for us, is competence.
“But the most important assignee from an onboarding perspective, is the strategist. As the chief point of contact, it is important that the strategist has some commonalities with the client, if possible. We try to assign the team with the most relevant industry experience and cultural fit first, with everything else coming second. If we are sure that they will hit it off on a personal note, then we are confident that the onboarding
Dr. Mak then highlights the challenges that Latent Stella Technology Company Limited have had to overcome to be successful, plus their thoughts on how it feels to be awarded the title Excellence in Technology – China, as well as the key attributes that make them successful.
“We are, ain’t we, haha? For us, this is a very good checkpoint that we could look back on what we have done to benefit society. In terms of the future, we will keep going, to provide our clients with an enviable experience and a supply of innovative ideas. “We are a research and development company and as such, we are investing more than 20% of our annual turnover into research and development area. More than 90% of our products are patent oriented. That’s provide us a uniqueness among other suppliers. The challenges are how to make us reliable and maintain a core competence.
Left to right: Dr. Hin Yu, Mark Mak - Chief Executive Officer, mark@latentstella.com Mr. Anjiang, Ken Lin - Managing Director, ken@latentstella.com
Last but by no means least, Dr. Mak shares with us the wider industry trends the company is mindful of now and in the future. They also detail the prospects for Latent Stella Technology Company Limited in 2017 and beyond.
energy in comparison with the traditional model. More countries are providing subsidies or rebate to green energy projects, so we think that the market should be expanding rapidly. We believe that in this vein, we are on the right track.
“Customers become more concerned about the environment and sustainability; people eager to use green
“Within the past 10 years, there have been many successful case and job references of solar automatic farming systems, so
customers may have a high confidence in the fusion between agriculture and engineering and what we call, ‘innovative agriculture’. “One last point to underline, is that we are working on a solar automatic farm in the New York area. As the weather is so cold in wintertime there, summer vegetables are hard to plant. We aim to make use of our
system, to provide them an alternative solution, so that those summer vegetables can be grow in wintertime to obtain a high economic efficiency.”
Technology Company Limited Web Address: www.latentstella.com
Softech / August 2017 9
,
1707ST01
Hong Kong Technology Awards - Most Innovative Mobility Solution – Hong Kong Deeply touched by the disadvantaged situations some people find themselves in, Mr. Lee Siu Lun, Alan, founder of B-Free Technology Limited, started to create the world’s first ever twopart pedrail design power wheelchair to help wheelchair users to overcome barriers and to regain mobility and respect. First of all, Alan outlines to us what inspired him to create and develop a wheelchair that would enable users to have more accessibility to places, where previously they have not been so welcome. “Without a doubt, wheelchair is a great invention to help people suffering from mobility difficulties to regain certain freedom by sitting in a chair with wheels. Such freedom however, is limited to smooth surfaces only.” “The deep, shameful feeling of asking and waiting for assistance to get in and out of the lobby of his apartment had put a young paraplegic off going outside, and ended up locking himself in his own flat like a prisoner for eight years in Hong Kong. Four strong men were required to carry him and his wheelchair up and down the staircase with five steps at the lobby of his apartment. This young lad was also discriminated by his neighbours of blocking
10 Softech / August 2017
their way. With his persistence on the very lengthy process, he was lucky enough to be helped by the Equal Opportunities Commission to persuade the owners’ corporation of the apartment to build a permanent ramp under the context of the Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO). The outcome was positive. Apart from Hong Kong, straight historic preservation regulations in Europe often blocks installation of handrails, stair lifts or other assistive facilities in historic buildings and areas.” Alan’s idea was appreciated by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and was invited to its Incubation Program. With his creative mind of product design and R&D assistance provided by HKSTP, the innovative concept version B-Free Chair was successfully created in late 2014. The invention was promptly secured by invention patents and won the Gold Award at the International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva.
The concept version, B-Free Chair, was already one of the leading stair-climbing wheelchairs on the market at the time, in terms of cost, safety, agility, reliability and creativity. Conventional stair-climbing wheelchairs and stair-climbers are operated by single pedrails that only hook onto the nosing of the stairs to enable grip for stair-climbing. Such hooking mechanisms are insufficient to sustain an accidental push from behind on stairs and risks sliding both the user and the equipment down the stairs. The B-Free Ranger hit the market in late 2016 and has since successfully obtained invention Patents in over 10 countries including Australia, China, EU, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, UK and the US. Importantly, the B-Free Ranger is agile both indoors and outdoors. It enables a high degree of mobility and accessibility with four operation modes, namely
Surf Mode (for smoother surface), SUV Mode (for rugged terrain such as cobblestone streets found in many European countries, curb and platform gap), Stair Mode (for general staircases and steps, slopes that exceed 25° incline but not more than 30) and Steep Mode (for steep staircases and steps, slopes that exceed 30° incline but not more than 35). In other words, the B-Free Ranger is able to negotiate most terrains and climb most staircases. Alan talks us through how the safety of the product is essential to his innovation, enabling wheelchair users to feel comfortable and safe, listing the stringent checks done on the product. “Product safety is of utmost concern in product design. Firstly, an emergency stop button is clearly installed as per CE requirement. Secondly, the patented “Pear-shaped pedrail system” functions not only to “hook” the nosing but also firmly and stably “step” and “prop” on the tread of the stairs. Therefore,
the wheelchair is able to sustain enormous force from behind and not to be toppled while on stairs. Thirdly, the stair-climbing system is mechanical driven, not electronically. No electronic sensors are installed on the patented semi-wheel and semipedrail design because shinny and slippery surfaces, and broken steps can easily affect sensor readings to impose wrong commands. In addition, the seat-balancing system is always activated in Stair and Steep Mode to automatically adjust the seat angle to ensure the user to be horizontally balanced constantly.” “Further real-time stringent structural and mechanical tests have been carried out. The “Drop Test” is to drop the whole wheelchair from a height to check whether any components or parts are not firmly tightened or installed. The “Endurance Test” demands the B-Free Ranger to climb up and down the stairs non-stop for more than 50,000 steps! Do not be surprised. You have counted the right number of zeros. It is tested for Fifty thousand steps. The “Fire Test” has accredited B-Free Ranger’s product materials such as seat cushion and back rest for fire resistance.” Alan discusses the work that staff do at the firm, working with the customer to ensure they get the right chair and the right safety materials required for their disability. Staff at the company are passionate and dedicated, aiming to not only meet, but also exceed client’s demands. “The most superb product will not glow in the dark without proper business strategy planning. B2C – Our team is passionate and dedicated. Upon receiving an enquiry, we will contact the person over the phone to understand the requirements of the user, such as outdoor/indoor usage, step measurements and type of staircases. We will then arrange a site visit and onsite product demonstration. If everything is fine, a unit can be delivered to the user within 30 days after payment is received. A user training program will be arranged at the user’s earliest convenience. B2B - B-Free continues to participate in both local and overseas exhibitions to showcase our products to connect with potential distributors, agents and actual
users in the regions. B-Free commits to providing a complete support to all distributors and agents, including product, promotional and technical trainings, etc. to help them to gain product knowledge and build their confidence. Staffs can always travel to the region for assistance, if necessary and upon request.” “Considering the different types of users, our products can be customized and personalized. The Standard version and the wheel version are noticeably different. The latter offers a smoother user experience on flat terrain as the rubber wheels may absorb shocks and vibrations more, but users may experience a little bit more vibrations with the former. This may easily be overcome by using a more shock absorbing seat cushion. To address different body size, different size of seats, 14 or 16 inches, can be installed easily with the simple 4-screw seat replacement design. For the less able users, rear mirrors or cameras and other integrated supporting system and accessories can be added to the products.” Recognising all the work that has gone into producing this excellent innovative product, Alan believes that the passion and communication skills of staff at the company have contributed greatly to the success of the wheelchair. “Being a winner of the Hong Kong Technology Awards is a glory not to any one person but to the whole team who has worked diligently over the years. It is a recognition of our work and our passion to serve the differently abled. Passion and open to communication are key attributes to be successful. Passion drives new ideas and design while communication points out areas for improvement and changes.” “Challenges are always there from research and development, production, promotion and sales and marketing. Fortunately, all aspects are set up in one convenience location for easy management. Since demand and orders are rapidly growing in overseas markets, our distribution strategy is oriented to target the European markets first.”
Spreading the word of the products is essential to helping the company grow, as Alan discusses some of the challenges he faces, particularly as the product is brand new in the market. Competing with others in the healthcare equipment industry can be quite tough but Alan is confident that both the staff and the product will rise to the challenge.
“As our brand name is building up with more overseas orders, we will be able to lower the production cost, hence reducing the local retail price to an affordable level to benefit local users.”
“Since our products are brand new in the market, we are often challenged during exhibitions and onsite demonstrations, especially on the endurance and driving position while climbing stairs. Clear answers have to be given to earn confidence and acceptance from the users. For example, B-Free Ranger is able to climb as many steps as the batteries may last for. And, while sitting in a normal chair, the body’s centre of gravity is naturally shifted backward. Forward facing to climb any upward staircases risks backward toppling of the wheelchair. Therefore, backward facing to the staircase is the safest approach for stairclimbing.”
“At the company, our passion and mission will press on to globalize stair-climbing wheelchair, achieving ultimately that when we see a wheelchair on the street, we know it can climb stairs! B-Free Ranger is only the beginning of more inspired versions to come. Replying to the market demand, the upcoming patented B-Free Flash is in its final testing stage and will soon be ready for commercial production. Comparing with B-Free Ranger, it is a more simple and compact design. Its simple two operation modes, Surf Mode and Stair Mode, and smaller turning radius make it perfect for indoor usage. We believe that B-Free Flash is more able to meet demands of most Asian countries where more narrow staircases and confine spaces are found.”
“Hong Kong’s medical and healthcare equipment industry mainly targets the household consumer market and is export-oriented. The Belt and Road Initiative will increase share of medical knowledge and services and household healthcare expenditures in the involved developing countries. This can be translated into more opportunities for B-Free to open more overseas markets. This fits very well to our distribution strategy, targeting the European markets first followed by other overseas markets.”
Alan discusses the future of the firm and future products, again discussing the passion of staff and the mission of the firm.
Company: B-Free Technology Ltd. Name: Alan Siu Lun Lee Email: alan@b-free.hk Web Address: www.b-free.hk Address: Unit 231, 2/F., Building 16W, Phase 3, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Shatin, Hong Kong. Telephone: 852-3704 7069
Softech / August 2017 11
,
1707ST02
5 Reasons Why Archiving Is Now More Helpful Than Ever - Marc M. Batschkus Files keep piling up faster than ever. In comparison to previous years, we’re using more storage. Finding a specific file becomes increasingly difficult. All of this calls for is an archive. Archiving is more helpful and rewarding than ever. 1. Archiving is easier than ever Archive software can be easy to install and run. Archiware’s P5 Archive makes archiving and restoring straightforward: a browser interface, media previews and proxy clips to browse visually, customisable metadata fields to build an individual metadata schema and more. Find out more here: bit.ly/2u4tq70 On the Mac, archiving is even simpler. The P5 Archive App offers a Finder integration so that every user can send files to the archive instantly and reclaim local storage this way. Additionally, an integration with FCP X is built in. Find out more here: bit.ly/2tFOBKm 2. Files finally getting organized Let go of piles of hard disks, excel sheets, post-it notes,
12 Softech / August 2017
printed directories, and all those little things that make finding a file cumbersome and unpredictable. The Archive is the central repository of all files
that have been completed and are no longer needed for daily production. Essentially, the Archive serves as the company´s file memory.
Your co-workers will be much more motivated to search for files once the process becomes as easy as opening a browser window - as with P5 Archive.
3. Archive on any medium Whether it´s the Cloud, disk or tape storage, P5 Archive offers you the same flexibility for all. Specific strengths:
• • • •
Disk is fast and accommodates multiple users Cloud offers storage immediately without investment and security because it is offsite Tape has the best proven long-term perspective and the best price point per TB Offsite storage is easy to arrange, as is scalability – just add tapes
4. Tape is better (and cheaper) than ever Surprisingly today, tape is the cheapest professional storage medium per TB, at only 10 US $ per TB, with LTO-6. What used to be reserved for larger corporations can now even be used by small companies. The proven long-term perspective and guaranteed 30-year shelf life is unique.
Tape provides maximum protection against online attacks, malware, mishaps, etc. and easy offsite storage. It is also futureproof and backed by a roadmap of the LTO consortium. The cost of storage has been decreasing for many years, including the cost of tape. However, tape is already an order of magnitude lower than that of a disk (around 100US$/ TB enterprise disk vs. 10US$/TB LTO-6 tape). 5. Maximum security for production media A centralised Archive is protected by a storage strategy e.g. cloned tape sets, off-site storage, combined storage like disk and cloud etc. This is far superior to any unorganised form that leaves the file security to the respective user. Tape is almost completely immune to network attacks, malware, viruses and mishaps. Contrary to disk, infections cannot spread to other tapes. Only the tape that is mounted in the drive can be accessed by the server.
With a guaranteed shelf life of 30 (!) years, tape is ideal for longterm media storage. P5 Archive offers tape cloning to create two identical tape sets, one for off-site storage for maximum security. With P5 Archive, disk and Cloud can also be used to build this level of security and save to off-premise storage. 6. Re-use, reference and monetise your files Once you have an archive, it becomes extremely easy to build on the work you’ve already done. Looking for a reference for a customer from last year? Just search in the Archive. Looking for files to re-use for a new project? Just browse the Archive. Combine files to a new product or production? Retrieve any file needed. 7. The Backup profits, too When all finished productions and completed files are regularly moved to the Archive, the Backup of the production storage is completed faster. Fewer files and less volume means faster runtime.
This keeps the main storage and the Backup storage at a reasonable size and saves money. There is no better time to start your archive. The benefits are many: save time searching for files, save money for storage expansion, build a central repository for re-use and monetisation. Start planning now and get everyone who will profit from it involved (find help for planning here: bit.ly/1wkHG4W)
Contact Details Marc M. Batschkus, MD PhD, Business Development Manager at Archiware, has been writing about IT for 24 years. He can be reached at: mmb@archiware.de
Softech / August 2017 13
NEP Acquires Bexel NEP Group, Inc., the global industry-leading provider of outsourced broadcast and live event production solutions, on August 2 announced that they have acquired Bexel Global Broadcast Solutions, a subsidiary of Vitec Group plc. Headquartered in Pittsburgh with offices in 21 countries, NEP’s addition of Bexel strengthens its position as the worldwide broadcast services leader, and expands their ability to provide a comprehensive, onestop set of solutions to broadcast clients in virtually every region and territory around the globe. “NEP and Bexel share similar cultures and have delivered decades of exceptional service to our clients. Our companies have enjoyed a strong working relationship for years,” said Kevin Rabbitt, NEP CEO. “Bexel has built a great reputation in the industry, and I’m excited to have them as part of our Worldwide Network. The addition of their scalable flypack systems, as well as other critical integration services, will position us for accelerated growth into 2018 and beyond.” Headquartered in Burbank with operations in California and Texas, Bexel has provided innovative outsourced broadcast solutions and rental equipment to the premium sports, entertainment and live event production markets for more than 35 years. Bexel’s U.S.-based scalable flypack systems brings NEP’s inventory to 34 flypack solutions for any sized event, anywhere around the world. Following the acquisition, Bexel will continue to sell specific services under its own brand, and operate out of existing facilities providing flypacks, high
frame rate specialty cameras, HD camera chains, lenses, EVS machines and more. “Joining forces with the industry leader is excellent news for us and our clients,” said Halid Hatic, President and General Manager of Bexel. “Our clients will have access to even more resources and talent, and our employees can take their careers to the next level as part of the NEP Worldwide Network. It’s really a fantastic fit and opportunity for both companies.” To learn more about NEP’s brands and solutions, visit nepgroup.com
Learn more at bexel.com
Softech / August 2017 15
,
GDPR and Cyber Security: The Elephant Herd in the Room Keith Bedell-Pearce, Chairman, 4D Data Centres As the UK will still be part of the European Union (EU), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will become UK law in May next year and whether we have hard or soft Brexit, GDPR is likely to remain on the statute books. With this in mind, Keith BedellPearce, chairman of 4D Data Centres, urges businesses to focus on putting a practical cyber security strategy in place now. There are two reasons why GDPR is here to stay. The first is that it is the cornerstone of the current Government’s longer term cyber policy. The second is, according to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), “if the UK wants to trade with the single market on equal terms, we would have to prove ‘adequacy’”. This could include a requirement to implement data localisation involving the physical relocation of customer information. In an age where every business is becoming ever more reliant on the storage and processing of data, businesses need to address data localisation and ensure that their data systems are robust enough to prevent a breach. Organisations need to consider where their cloud provider owns and operates their data centres and whether their data could inadvertently be
16 Softech / August 2017
transferred or stored in locations outside the UK or EU. Companies have until May 2018 to ensure their data systems are robust enough to prevent a breach or face a hefty fine from the ICO of up to 4% of turnover if they become victims of data loss. In addition to any fines for data breaches, the commercial cost of loss of confidential information, sales and marketing data or the results of costly and valuable research can be immense. Add to this the reputational damage of adverse publicity, a major data breach could turn out to be the single greatest risk in terms of both cost and probability of occurrence that an organisation faces. Yet in many companies, data breaches barely get a mention in their risk register, if at all, and expertise in cyber security at a board level is still a rarity apart from in technology companies. The seriousness of cyber risks is further underlined by the assertion in the 8th April 2017 edition of The Economist that “Computers will never be secure... computer security is a contradiction in terms”. The article goes on to say that the scale and complexity of modern software is the root cause of the inherent vulnerability of modern business. The Economist argues that errors are inevitable and
these errors create vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers. The generally accepted error rate for source code programmers is 10 to 50 per 1,000 lines. The average phone app has a round 14 vulnerabilities and in the Internet of Things (IOT), the vulnerability exposure is such that it is now open season for the hackers with the six billion plus connected devices on the IOT. So the need to take seriously the threat of a data breach, along with the prospect of hefty fines by the ICO, has never been more important. How can senior stakeholders ensure that their businesses have the appropriate technical and organisational measures in place to protect its data in all of its forms? There is a lot that an organisation can do by way of self-help using relatively straightforward and low (or nil) cost measures. Cyber security should be embedded into the very core of any business, no matter the size. This won’t necessarily stop the business from falling prey to a breach but it will at least reduce the chances of a catastrophic data breach with all the resultant reputational damage and financial loss. In addition, the ICO is likely to look more favourably on organisations
that can demonstrate that they have at least prepared for such an incident rather than just hope for the best. A good starting point is the practical advice “10 steps to Cyber Security” provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) which is part of GCHQ. The core element is setting up a risk management regime in the same way as you would for legal, regulatory, financial or operational risks. In addition, using the Government’s Cyber Essentials scheme gives Cyber Essentials accreditation that allows organisations to advertise that it meets a Governmentendorsed standard. While the assertion that computer security is a contradiction in terms is unfortunately always likely to hold true, implementing your own cyber security regime now could put in place a vital layer of protection when the reality of the GDPR legislation bites. 4D Data Centres is a UK based colocation and cloud provider.
Softech / August 2017 17
,
Data Artisans to Host Third Annual Flink Forward Berlin Data Artisans, founded by the original creators of Apache Flink®, on August 2nd announced the third annual Flink Forward Berlin, the premier conference for Apache Flink, including a sneak peek at the programme agenda. The conference • Stephan Ewen, PMC Kenneth Knowles, software features more than 50 presentations and will take place September 11-13, 2017, at the KulturBrauerei in Prenzlauer Berg. For more information or to register to attend, please visit berlin.flinkforward.org.
Flink Forward Berlin will bring together 400 CTOs/CIOs, developers, DevOps engineers, system/data architects, data scientists, Apache Flink core committers and the open source stream processing community for hands-on training, technical sessions and networking opportunities. Participants will learn how global companies like Alibaba, Cisco, Google, IBM, ING, King and Netflix use Flink as the stream processing engine of choice for large-scale stateful applications, including real-time analytics, realtime search and content ranking, fraud/anomaly/threat detection. Keynote Line Up Includes:
• • •
Xiaowei Jiang, senior director, Alibaba Ferd Scheepers, chief information architect, ING Kostas Tzoumas, PMC member of Apache Flink and CEO/co-founder, data Artisans
18 Softech / August 2017
member of Apache Flink and CTO/co-founder, data Artisans
“Flink has quickly emerged as the leading enterprise-grade stream processing platform and is uniquely designed for largescale, stateful applications,” said Flink PMC member and data Artisans’ CEO Kostas Tzoumas. “We’ve seen tremendous growth of the community over the past year as Flink applications have evolved beyond realtime analytics, now enabling businesses to respond to insights and to their customers in realtime. At Flink Forward Berlin, you’ll hear about the business impact Flink is delivering across industries, how users are both building and operationalising innovative real-time applications with Flink, and where the technology is headed.” At Flink Forward, participants will have the opportunity to hear from experts who have built scalable streaming infrastructure and enterprise-grade applications, view live demos and attend in-depth technical talks on the internals of stream processing technologies. Sessions include: • Sourabh Bajaj and
•
•
•
•
engineers, Google, with Aljoscha Krettek, software engineer, data Artisans: Talk Python to me: Stream Processing in Your Favourite Language with Beam on Flink;
Trevor Grant, open source technical evangelist, IBM: Do I Know You? Real-Time Facial Recognition with an Apache Stack; Bas Geerdink, IT chapter lead, and Martijn Visser, product owner, ING: Fast Data at ING - Building a Streaming Data Platform with Flink and Kafka; Gyula Fora, senior data warehouse engineer, King: Building and Operating Large-Scale Streaming Applications at King and; Matt Zimmer, senior software engineer, Netflix: Custom, Complex Windows at Scale Using Apache Flink.
Flink Forward Berlin features one day of hands-on training as a lead in to the conference on September 11, followed by the two-day conference on September 12-13. For those new to Apache Flink, the Standard Training provides an in-depth introduction to stream processing with Flink.
For experienced Flink users, the Advanced Training will focus on newer and more advanced understanding of the lowerlevel APIs and how to manage applications in production. For more information or to register to attend a training session and/ or the conference, please visit berlin.flink-forward.org For more information, visit data-artisans.com
Softech / August 2017 19
,
Benefits in Heightened Compliance Environment Leading ethics and compliance software and services company NAVEX Global® 28 July announced the release of its 2017 Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Report. change. The survey data from NAVEX Global® shows that return on investment is greater for organisations with training programmes deemed mature or advanced, helping them achieve risk mitigation and culture. With corporate scandals and cyber-attacks a fixture in the news cycle, organisations with mature training see greater positive outcomes, the survey finds. “More than half of our respondents classified their training programmes as at least mature and said they are better able to determine and then show the linkage between programme maturity and training objectives to executives,” said Ingrid Fredeen, J.D., NAVEX Global’s vice president of online learning content and the report’s author. “Being able to sharpen the business case for training is important for compliance programmes hoping to secure more funding at this critical time, when a scandal or cyberattack can have swift and sweeping negative effects on an organisation and its brand.”
20 Softech / August 2017
The survey findings represent more than 900 respondents, over half of whom were senior managers or directors. 48% of respondents said their training programmes were maturing – meaning they have a basic plan for the year that covers risk and role-based topic assignments. Effectiveness measures for these programmes are limited to completion rates and qualitative feedback. Another 10% of respondents said their programmes were advanced – meaning they have a sophisticated multiyear training plan that covers a variety of topics assigned to specific audiences based on need and risk profile that includes live and eLearning, short-form and longform courses and a variety of engaging formats. These programmes also have a disciplined approach to reporting and measuring training effectiveness that focuses on training outcomes. Larger organisations were more likely to have mature or advanced programmes.
“Making an investment in employee training can be a significant expenditure for organisations,” Fredeen said. “But as this year’s results show, without the investment, efforts can be wasted because the programme is not effective or supportive, and employees can become disengaged.”
“Those two objectives are usually atop the list, but the switch in order this year is likely a result of people thinking differently about the need for training programmes,” Fredeen said. “Some organisations could be wondering what is under a rock today that could go public tomorrow.”
Echoing previous year’s results, training at the highest levels continues to be a potential problem spot. 36% of respondents said their organisations don’t provide ethics and compliance training to their boards – and another 21% said they didn’t know whether they did. Additionally, just 25% of organisations train their boards on cybersecurity.
Many respondents (about a third to half) indicated that they were unsure what outcomes their ethics and compliance training programme has achieved, as few attempts to demonstrate a return on investment. Analysis suggests that organisations with sufficient budget (mainly ones at an advanced stage of maturity) experience lower employee turnover. However, about a quarter of organisations don’t have a dedicated budget for ethics and compliance training, like the 2016 findings.
But survey respondents are clearly concerned about complying with laws and regulations, likely influenced by recent corporate scandals and cyber-attacks. The order of the top two training objectives identified by respondents flipped this year compared with 2017, with complying with laws and regulations edging out creating a culture of ethics and respect for the spot.
“That’s a troubling finding, one that’s shared equally across organisations of all sizes,” Fredeen said. “The difficulty in showing return on investment and effectiveness, of course, ties back into a lack of dedicated budgets. Dedicated budgets also ensure predictability and
allows for long-term planning – especially in an environment in which compliance professionals are regularly asked to do more with less.” Other key findings include:
•
•
•
Organisations define a culture of ethics and respect in various ways; the two most common definitions highlight a culture that creates a workplace that encourages people to speak openly and aligns with regulatory requirements. Just 41% of respondents said they provide training on cybersecurity, a surprising finding given the regular appearance of cyber breaches in the news. 43% provide training on speaking up and reporting/ anti-retaliation.
To download NAVEX Global’s Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Report, please visit: trust.navexglobal. com/2017-TrainingBenchmark-Report_Download. html?utm_source=072717&utm_ medium=pr&utm_ campaign=2017-olt-br
Softech / August 2017 21
,
ThirdEye Gen Releases Augmented Reality Smartglass ThirdEye Gen, Inc. announced at the start of this month, the development of a fully integrated Augmented Reality (AR) solution that includes the ‘X’1 Smartglass and AR software applications. This product is aimed for enterprise verticals including education, industrials/ manufacturing, field-service site inspection/maintenance and law enforcement. The innovative product has a distinguished pedigree - ThirdEye’s team has extensive R&D, product development & patent experience with Augmented Reality Hardware & Software for the US Department of Defense. The X1 Smartglass pushes the boundary of augmented reality hardware. Packed with the latest sensors, chips and a powerful optics design that allows users to experience a 1280x720p binocular display that is the equivalent to a 90’’screen at 10 feet, the X1 is a fully integrated product that enables ThirdEye to be a leading player in the commercial AR field. The sleek form factor of the X1 also allows the user to easily wear it while doing tasks. ThirdEye Gen has also successfully created AR software focused on providing live audio, video, P.O.V AR data between remote users. The smart glass app is hands-free – the user controls via their head-motion which is based on ThirdEye’s proprietary software and provides
22 Softech / August 2017
an intuitive AR interface that allows on-site personnel to collaborate with remotely located experts. Its 3-screen interface allows the remote user to have a clear field of view, while rotating between AR screens via headmotion. A cloud based architecture enables the entire session to be archived for later reference. This app will directly contribute to improved first time repair rates and to more cost-effective operations. The software is modular- for example, law enforcement and industrials can input real-time image recognition capabilities while Universities can stream a remote professor’s live point of view with annotations. ThirdEye is also developing custom education AR contentincluding 3D AR renderings of course curriculum, interactive campus tours where AR info is overlaid onto the user’s point of view & other AR software applicable to education. ThirdEye has successfully demoed its software to multiple verticals and is rapidly expanding its customer base.
www.thirdeyegen.com
Softech / August 2017 23
,
Integrated Asset Management Services Will Be Game Changers in Global Test and Measurement Increasing data integration in more test data-centric organisations will multiply growth opportunities, finds Frost & Sullivan’s test & measurement team. The global test Services offerings will begin “The value from a service• Integrated service delivery and measurement (T&M) industry is transforming as profitability from hardware alone becomes a challenge. Instead, companies are focusing on platform-centric business models that effectively integrate hardware, software analytics, and services.
This connected ecosystem redesigns customer experience across the entire life cycle of test equipment by considering all interactions users have around the test product. It also generates new ways for T&M companies to maximise test equipment value. As the T&M industry shifts to more collaborative approaches, services companies can manage entire quality test programmes based on product design requirements.
24 Softech / August 2017
as soon as companies start designing their products, and continue through the product assembly and early testing stages, making integrators quintessential to the service solution and test design.
New Services Growth Opportunities in the T&M Market, recent experiential research from Frost & Sullivan’s test & measurement growth partnership service, examines the T&M stakeholder business model shift from selling hardware to servicebased offerings. The analysis can help industry players identify their ‘growth zone’ in the emerging ecosystem. The research includes case studies on major players such as Keysight Technologies, Tektronix, Fluke, Microlease, AssetSmart, Fulcrum, Sente Group and MDSI.
based business will come from monetising the decision making and intelligence that is extracted from the data produced by a platform-centric business model,” said Frost & Sullivan T&M Services 2.0 industry analyst Mariano Kimbara. “Hence, a robust data strategy that involves open partnerships with software analytics is vital for T&M companies to create new revenue streams.”
A key challenge across user industries is the lack of visibility in test equipment usage and location. T&M original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can explore several opportunities while addressing these concerns, including:
•
Inventory-tracking services to help in warehouse design and lab space management;
•
•
•
that assists in redeploying existing inventory by identifying underutilised assets to rent out or sell;
Determining the optimal time for purchase of new test equipment by engaging closely with the client’s engineering and planning teams to eliminate silos and have integrated open systems; Developing software solutions to digitise test services and intelligently connect people, processes, data and test equipment and; Combining services lines— asset tracking, calibration, and sales of used equipment—to create highly attractive packages.
“Since most end users are concerned about connecting
their test equipment to a central database platform through the cloud, they will prefer engaging service providers with robust security systems over OEMs,” noted Kimbara. “On the other hand, commoditisation of product services makes it difficult for customers to identify significant differences in services, highlighting the need for user education on new servicebusiness implications.” Frost & Sullivan’s study covers T&M products, including onebox testers, signal generators, spectrum analysers, network analysers, multimeters, power meters and logic analysers. The application verticals analysed are aerospace and defence, automotive, semiconductors, telecommunications, medical devices and energy. ww2.frost.com
Softech / August 2017 25
,
nClouds Hires Former IBM DevOps and Cloud Executive as New Chief Marketing Officer Randy Newell joins nClouds to lead marketing and business development for award-winning DevOps and cloud solution provider. nClouds, a DevOps and cloud consulting partner recently named to CIOReview 20 Most Promising DevOps Solution Providers, has appointed Randy Newell as chief marketing officer. Newell was most recently the IBM executive leading DevOps, IT service management and cloud management marketing. At nClouds, Newell will be responsible for marketing strategy, brand, lead generation and expanding alliances with business partners, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft and others. Former IBM DevOps and cloud executive Randy Newell joins nClouds as chief marketing officer. San Jose-based nClouds was recently named to CIOReview 20 Most Promising DevOps Solution Providers 2017. Former IBM DevOps and cloud executive Randy Newell joins nClouds as chief marketing officer. San Jose-based nClouds was recently named to CIOReview 20 Most Promising DevOps Solution Providers 2017.
26 Softech / August 2017
“Randy’s an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said JT Giri, CEO, nClouds. “He brings domain expertise in DevOps and cloud, and a proven record in category creation and revenue growth. His executive experience with start-ups and mega brands in software, cloud and professional services is invaluable as we execute against nClouds’ growth objectives.”
(subsequently acquired by IBM), and DataEase, acquired by Sapphire International.
Newell is a DevOps advocate who helped define and promote the category working closely with innovators at large enterprises and start-ups, analysts, technology partners and systems integrators. He co-led the launch of IBM’s DevOps initiative in 2013 and led worldwide DevOps marketing, driving organic revenue growth and successful integration of strategic acquisitions. Under Newell’s leadership, his teams executed integrated digital, event, content and influencer campaigns that exceeded targets.
Newell earned an M.B.A. at New York University and a B.S. at Boston University.
Newell previously led U.S. field marketing at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) technology practice. He was also the senior marketing and business development executive at VC-backed start-ups NeuVis, sold to Rational Software
“I am thrilled with nClouds’ momentum and credentials,” said Newell. “More than 100 happy clients, 250-plus DevOps AWS deployments, over 500 deployed pipelines – and a team with deep technical skills and certifications. We’re rolling!”
For more info, visit: www.nclouds.com
Softech / August 2017 27
,
Video Surveillance for Bus, Light and Passenger Rail Fleets March Networks®, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions, is pleased to introduce new mobile IP cameras to its complete transportation solution for bus, light rail and passenger rail fleets. Designed to provide transit operators with improved and more comprehensive surveillance coverage, the mega pixel cameras are purpose-built to withstand demanding mobile environments and capture consistently clear video in near darkness, bright daylight and the abrupt lighting transitions that occur when vehicles enter and exit tunnels and underpasses. The mobile IP cameras are fully integrated with leading March Networks RideSafe™ Series Network Video Recorders and easily managed with powerful March Networks Command™ for Transit software. They are ideal for transit operators ready to upgrade from analogue to high-definition surveillance video, as well as those seeking highlyreliable cameras certified to withstand the wide temperature ranges, humidity, shock, vibration and other environmental
28 Softech / August 2017
pressures common on mobile vehicles. The Mobile ME4 IR MicDome combines 4MP resolution with high dynamic range (HDR) and powerful infrared (IR) LEDs to capture sharp, detailed images in varied lighting. Packaged in a small, durable housing, the camera incorporates a builtin microphone and is IP66 (weatherproofing), SAE J1455 and EN50155 (shock and vibration) and IK10 (vandalresistance) certified. Watch our IK10 test. The Mobile HDR Forward Facing camera can be mounted on a dashboard or ceiling and comes with an optional, anti-glare cone to minimise windshield glare and reflection. Its combination of HDR and 3MP resolution ensures exceptionally clear video, while features such as a weatherproof, vandal-resistant (IP67 / IK10) aluminium housing make it ideal for rugged transit applications.
The Mobile HDR Wedge is designed to capture highdefinition 3MP video from the exterior of a bus or passenger rail train. The camera includes built-in heaters and vents to prevent condensation and fogging, a weatherproof vandalresistant (IP67 / IK10) housing, and SAE J1455 and EN50155 certifications. The Evolution 05 Mini Panel Mount and Evolution 05 Mini Outdoor cameras introduce advanced 360-degree surveillance to March Networks’ transportation solution via a strategic partnership with Oncam®, the leader in 360-degree technology. With 5MP sensors and no moving parts, the cameras are EN50155 certified, come with multiple mounting options, are available in black or white models, and are fully integrated with March Networks Command software for powerful client-side de-warping.
All the new mobile cameras also include optional, on board storage to ensure continuous video recording, even if recorder connectivity is lost due to a power outage. “An increasing number of transit agencies are transitioning to IP to see high-definition video on their bus and passenger rail fleets, given that it’s now easier and more affordable to
download larger amounts of data over wireless networks,” said Dan Cremins, global leader, product management, March Networks. “Our new megapixel cameras support this transition by delivering exceptional video clarity along with the reliability, form factors and mounting options transit vehicles require. These megapixel cameras are best-in-class additions to our complete video solution
for mobile and wayside transit environments.” Drawing on more than a decade of experience working with transportation agencies worldwide, March Networks’ proven video solution provides bus, para-transit, light rail and passenger rail operators with comprehensive oversight across their entire operation – including on transit vehicles, and in
stations, depots and park-andrides. The intelligent solution enables operators to maintain the highest security for passengers and employees, respond quickly to emergency situations, and resolve liability claims faster and more cost-effectively with integrated case management and vehicle metadata evidence. March Networks will demonstrate its new mobile IP cameras and
complete transportation solutions at the BusCon 2017 Expo, September 11-13 in Indianapolis, IN, and at the APTA Expo, October 9-11 in Atlanta, GA. For more information, please visit marchnetworks.com.
www.marchnetworks.com
Softech / August 2017 29
Subscribe to Softech
Subscribe here www.softech-intl.com