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4 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A MODERN HD SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEM

26. Apr 2017 Reed Security Calgary, Feature, Guides, Prince Albert, ReedHD™ Security Cameras, Regina

ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera systems have become an important tool for businesses and families. CCTV systems of the past were bulky and expensive and only banks, airports, large retailers, grocery stores and big businesses could afford them. Not anymore! Thanks to early adoption, mass production and payment plans ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera packages are very affordable. We still install video surveillance systems at traditional businesses, but they can now be found just about everywhere – small businesses, gas stations, local restaurants, boutique stores, farms, grain processing facilities, mines, construction sites, schools and at homes.

So, what should you look for when shopping for a modern HD video surveillance system?

1) Ease of Use

We recommend the “try before you buy” method and demo the system you are considering investing in. We have a variety of systems to fit every budget, but the general rule is you get what you pay for. A user managing 4 cameras at a single site has different requirements than a Security Manager that manages 200+ cameras in multiple cities. Our certified technicians will professionally install your ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera system and ensure you understand how to view cameras on your smartphone, search for evidence and make a back-up for the Police.

2) Performance

The image quality of security cameras and recording lengths are performance indicators. Security cameras have resolutions ranging from VGA (640x480) to 7K (7360x4128). Some companies advertise “HD quality”, but the cameras may only be 720p (1280x720) HD. You will find a lot of these cameras at Costco and on-line stores. 720p HD is great for a homeowner or small business wanting the basics, but 1080p (1920x1080) should be the starting point for high definition security cameras. We go above and beyond with ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera packages and often use 4MP (2560 x1440) which is 30% greater than 1080p. Ultra HD 4K (3840x2160) will soon be our new standard. The higher the security camera resolution, the more details you will get on playback. This is extremely important when using our digital zoom tool when looking for evidence. We have samples of HD video surveillance on our YouTube channel.

If you have a compound or construction site you should consider ReedHD™ Smart Cameras. They have built in video analytics and that can detect People and Vehicles or when an object is removed from the security camera view. Next they alert you via smartphone or our UCIT Video Monitoring Stations (who will dispatch the Police). This is an effective way to intervene while a crime is in progress and reduce losses.

You should also pay attention to the NVR (network video recorder) and storage requirements. HD Security Cameras use a lot of storage so the first question should be “how many days would you like to record for”? At Reed Security we use a camera calculator tool that factors in the amount of movement, the scene, the frames per second and the resolution of each HD security camera. Most people need 14 days to 30 days of recording before recycling the data. An NVR with 4 cameras should have 2TB of storage, 8 cameras should have 4TB of storage, and 16 cameras should have 8TB of storage as minimums.

Most people forget that you also need a fast high speed internet connection to view the HD security cameras remotely on your smartphone app. At Reed Security we work with you and your internet provider to make sure you are on the right package for downloading and more importantly uploading video. We recommend a package with 1 MBPS upload for a quality remote viewing experience.

3) Effectiveness

Having an expensive 7K (29MP) HD security camera that can record license plates from 2000 feet away won’t do you any good in poor lighting conditions or if there is an obstructed view. We have installed nearly 20,000 security cameras and have consulted local Police services on optimal placements to help solve crimes. An experienced Reed Security Specialist knows which cameras to install where to ensure your video surveillance solution is effective when you need it most. We also recommend placing several Protected by ReedHD™ warning signs and decals at a site to make potential criminals think twice before committing a crime. Internal theft (employees, shoplifting) is far more common than external theft by an 8:1 ratio. We install warning signage on the inside of the building too - in particular high risk areas such as cash registers and exits.

4) Affordability

What should a HD security camera package cost? If you want an inexpensive system and you are prepared to install it yourself then consider Costco. A very basic system is $500 to $2000 (no labour) and the quality is OK for a basic home or small business. Disadvantages are: poor storage capacity, poor HD quality, poor reliability, poor warranty, no customization of views, pre-made (maximum 25 feet) cables that limit installation locations and if you are not tech savvy a pain to setup for remote viewing on your smartphone or desktop PC.

ReedHD™ Hi-Def Security Camera systems are professionally designed and installed. Our solutions are customized to your needs and budget so the pricing varies. The price ranges from $2500 for a 4 camera 4MP HD security camera package to $100,000+ for a 60 HD security camera solution. The most popular option is our Business Bundles. One low monthly fee covers it all - equipment, parts and labour warranty, helpdesk tech support, on-site service and *free upgrades. It's also a great way to preserve your capital, deduct the payments on your corporate tax return and grow your business.

If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation.

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700
LLOYDMINSTER SECURITY INQUIRIES
Coming Soon

ARE YOUR KIDS FULL OF SURPRISES? WE GOT YOU COVERED

18. Apr 2017 Reed Security alarm.com, Calgary, Feature, Regina

The Smartest Home Security & Automation system on the Block just became Smarter. With Unexpected Activity notifications your Smart Home Security & Automation system can now look out for your Home and Family.

Alarm.com learns your family's routine and when unusual activity happens - you will receive an instant alert to your smartphone. It's a new type of proactive, intelligent protection.

Unexpected Activity notifications can be triggered by door sensors, window sensors and motion sensors that you've placed in dangerous or forbidden areas of your Home or Business.

Find out when the little people at your Home wake up in the middle of the night. Are they having a bad dream or stomach ache?

A Reed Smart Home Security & Automation system can protect you and your kids from bad ideas that seemed good at the time.

If you would like more information on Smart Home or Business Security & Automation please Contact Us for a Free Security Evaluation.

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS DOES NOT STAY IN VEGAS

11. Apr 2017 Reed Security Alarm Systems, alarm.com, Calgary, Feature, Guides, News, Prince Albert, ReedHD™ Security Cameras, Regina, Trade Shows

TOP 25 COOL SECURITY SOLUTIONS FROM ISCWEST

Would you rather partner with a cutting-edge security LEADER that brings the latest and greatest crime-fighting technology back for their Clients? Or would you like to partner with the Dinosaurs that like to FOLLOW?

Every year we head to Vegas to attend ISCWest. With 1000 exhibitors and 30,0000 security geeks it's the largest Security Expo in North America.

The near future is all about smart security cameras and video management software with Artificial Intelligence (AI). It's getting close to what you see on TV shows like CSI. One example is Face Appearance Search by Avigilon. The software is so smart it can quickly search for the Face of a Person at a site. In the example below the Avigilon representative chooses a thumbnail image of the person he wants to find and the recorded video with the persons face displays immediately. If you look closely, the person he is looking for is on the far right and has an identification box. This is ideal for high traffic locations such as schools, airports, hospitals, government and office buildings.

With over 1000 Exhibitors and 30,000 Security Geeks, ISCWest is THE PLACE to find the latest and greatest security innovations.

Our Sales Manager Ken Spence checked out the Qolsys IQ2 Smart Security & Automation system. This is by far the SMARTEST home and small business solution we've ever seen. Coming to Reed Security mid 2017.

The Qolsys IQ2 Smart Security & Automation system has a few unique features you will not find on any other system. The built in 5MP camera takes photos every time the system is Armed or Disarmed and e-mails it to you (on DisArm). Coming to Reed Security mid 2017.

The Qolsys IQ2 Smart Security & Automation system has a few unique features you will not find on any other system. The 7" touchscreen displays HD video cameras. Also has a built in glass break sensor. Coming to Reed Security mid 2017.

Alarm.com has a few new HD camera options. Above is a Bullet style security camera and below is a Dome style security camera. Comes with Alarm.com cloud recording (no local storage required) and the ability to view with your smartphone. Works best when integrated with a Reed Smart Security & Automation system. For example, when a door opens a video clip of the event is stored to the cloud.

With Amazon Alexa you can use voice commands to control your IQ2 Smart Security & Automation system. This is similar to Siri or Google Assistant. Unfortunately this is NOT available in Canada yet.

The Qolsys IQ2 Smart Security & Automation system has a few unique features you will not find on any other system. You can DisArm your system with your SmartPhone (without even using an app). Coming to Reed Security mid 2017.

This is a GAME CHANGER. Alarm.com released a System Enhancement Module that attaches onto older DSC Power Series version 4.2 and higher and Honeywell/Ademco alarm systems. It turns your existing alarm system into a Smart Security & Automation system. Control everything with your Smartphone. Coming to Reed Security April 2017

DSC has some great video verification solutions. When your alarm triggers a photo is taken and sent to our Emergency Operators. The Emergency Operator ONLY dispatches the authorities if an intruder is present. This security solution is ideal for back yards and fenced compounds. If you are having a lot of EXPENSIVE false alarms, then this is the right solution for you.

nVidia had 20-odd demos displaying the latest robotic guards and security drones. They have Object Recognition software so accurate it personalizes retail experiences or speeds up law enforcement investigative work. It also has the capabilities to identify cars and pedestrians to keep traffic moving.

The future of video surveillance is Artificial Intelligence (AI). Search by Example, Super-human image classification, pedestrian detection (in the rain), 5x faster license plate recognition, 10x faster vehicle attribute classification, 11x faster investigation productivity, 30x faster people and attribute detection...

Artificial Intelligence - People Detection

Our security partner Avigilon previews Artificial Intelligence - Face Appearance Search

Many security companies are investing into Drone technology and developing an integrated security solution. Imagine a smart camera that detects a Person and Drone launching to follow, record, a talk to an unwanted visitor. Our friends at Saskatoon-based www.draganfly.com were way ahead of their time!

Drones can be used to deliver and detonate explosives. But not if you have a DroneSheild gun. DroneSheild is a counter-measure that allows you to safely take control and jam video frequencies.

This isn't R2D2. It's the Knightscope Autonomous Data Machine (a security robot). It's microphones, cameras, and analytics are designed to detect threat and alert the proper authorities. The founders created the ADM in response to school shootings and the Boston marathon bombing.

Our security partner Hikvision is the largest video surveillance company in the world. Reed Security gets a tour of their retail, education, government and traffic solutions with Hikvision management. — with Christopher Zenaty, VP Sales, Hikvision USA, Virgil Reed,Jeffrey He, President, Hikvision USA, Ken Spence,Jeff Augustine, Senior Sales Manager Western Canada and Barry Paisley

Hikvision has released a Specialty Camera Solution line for coastlines, marinas, ports, food processing sites, mines, oil and gas facilities, airports and solar farms.

Hikvision has expanded into vehicle surveillance applications and body worn cameras for law enforcement and security guards.

Hikvision launched an affordable microphone to record conversations. Audio + Video provides the best evidence to convict a criminal. *Audio recording is not legal in all jurisdictions.

Schlage has a wireless access control solution for applications that are hard to wire. Comes with a built in proximity reader.

SASKATOON
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200 or 1.844.384.SAFE (7233)
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA
Call 306.206.0700
LLOYDMINSTER
Coming Soon

HOW TO HACK A SECURITY CAMERA

25. Mar 2017 Reed Security Calgary, Feature, Guides, Prince Albert, ReedHD™ Security Cameras, Regina

A security camera hack occurs when an unwanted person gains access to your security cameras via a network or internet feed. The hacker could be a teenager showing off his tech skills to peers, a current or former employee wanting to gain business intelligence, or a criminal wanting to observe security measures or even disable them. Large scale hacks have occurred when internet activists such as Anonymous target specific businesses or industries.

We have installed 10,000+ i.p. security cameras and we have NOT experienced security vulnerabilities or hacking. As a professional installation company we take extra security measures.

Spoiler: It wouldn't be responsible for us to tell you how to hack a security camera. Instead we share

5 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT A SECURITY CAMERA HACK:

1. Install the latest firmware on all i.p. security cameras, recorders, routers, switches, and wireless access points.

Updating the firmware will correct any known security issues and sometimes add security functions to the device.

2. Do not use default passwords or leave them blank.

Things to consider when picking a password:

- Do not use common words, phone numbers, address etc.

- Use a password min 8 characters long. with a combination of lower & upper case letters and numbers

- This applies to the router, some switches, i.p. security cameras, and network video recorders.

3. Keep track of who has access to your security systems.

-Do they really need it?

-Do they need to view all cameras or just a few?

-Terminate security access when an employee leaves

4. If you have remote access to a site with your smartphone, make sure your smartphone is locked when not in use.

Some apps will give you full access to the setup of i.p. security cameras and/or NVR (network video recorder).

5. If the NVR is connected to a network that has Wi-Fi, ensure that the Wi-Fi is using encryption and again it has a strong password.

If you are having a problem with Theft (or would like to prevent one)

SASKATOON SECURITY INQUIRIES
Reed Security Headquarters
Call 306.653.3200
SuRe InnoVations
Call 306.974.0888
PRINCE ALBERT SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.922.7200
CALGARY SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 587.393.2800
REGINA SECURITY INQUIRIES
Call 306.206.0700
LLOYDMINSTER SECURITY INQUIRIES
Coming Soon

REED SECURITY EXPANDS - WELCOME HIGHMARK HOME SYSTEMS SUBSCRIBERS

20. Mar 2017 Reed Security Calgary, Feature, News

Highmark Home Systems Ltd. has sold its security monitoring services to Reed Security.

You will be in great hands! Reed Security has received 20+ Award Recognitions for the way they look after People (Customer Service, Quality Management, Marketing, New Direction, and Small Business of the Year).

Dave Sammartino will be staying on through a transition arrangement to ensure a smooth handover of the business. Dave Schlegel is your local Reed Security Authorized Dealer and has 10+ years security sales, installation and support experience.

No major changes are planned, however we will be seeking customer feedback to identify how additional customer value can be created.

Dave Sammartino
Owner
Highmark home Systems Ltd.

Virgil Reed
Owner
Reed Security

SALES, INSTALLATION, SUPPORT

Contact Your Local Reed Security Authorized Dealer
Dave Schlegel
587-393-2800
dave.s@reedsecurity.ca
reedsecurity.com/calgary

BILLING, ADMINISTRATION

Contact Reed Security Head Office
306-653-3200
administration@reedsecurity.ca
reedsecurity.com

New & Noteworthy

4 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A MODERN HD SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEM

ARE YOUR KIDS FULL OF SURPRISES? WE GOT YOU COVERED

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS DOES NOT STAY IN VEGAS

HOW TO HACK A SECURITY CAMERA

REED SECURITY EXPANDS - WELCOME HIGHMARK HOME SYSTEMS SUBSCRIBERS

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