1. Cloud-based surveillance Eliminates Bulky Hardware

Rhombus systems eliminate the need for on-premises recording equipment like DVRs, NVRs, and bulky servers. It replaces these with smart cameras, PoE (Power over Ethernet) connectivity, and cloud storage. This lowers maintenance services and reduces the system’s points of failure.

“We set out to disrupt the outdated, legacy physical security systems “_Rhombus’s website

Because traditional security systems have hard drives, they have a moderate failure rate of over 30% within five years. With Rhombus’s cloud-first design, this issue is eliminated entirely.

2. Remote Access and Backup are Always Available

Rhombus cameras can be managed remotely, and more recently, through the new Rhombus Apple TV app. With the app, users can now “quickly locate specific cameras, incidents, or time frames across multiple video walls without losing sight of your broader security overview.” This feature is helpful specially for users that manage many cameras as it can stream up to 30 high definition cameras feeds simultaneously without compromising quality.

Additionally, because Rhombus cameras have the capacity to store footage internally, they continue recording even during internet outages. When the power is fixed, the cameras reconnect and sync footage to the cloud. This means that footage will be stored complete without ever missing a frame.

3. AI Video Analytics for Faster Investigations

Rhombus cloud surveillance brings advanced AI tools that include facial recognition, license plate reading, object detection, color-based search, people counting, and more. With smart detection and search right to your fingertips, you can get the most advanced data compiled in one place. When an incident occurs, intelligent filtering and auto-tagging drastically cut the time it takes to find the right footage from hours to minutes!

4. Seamless Integrations & Alerts

Rhombus integrates with tools like PagerDuty, Slack, ServiceNow, Jira, and more to deliver alerts and foster smooth incident workflows. Many of these tools have free trials that allow users to test for the best option before committing. Additionally, video clips can be automatically and securely saved to cloud storage providers like Dropbox, AWS, and others.

5. Enterprise-Grade Security & Reliability

Rhombus cameras carry an industry-leading 10 year warranty, underscoring their durability and enterprise readiness. And because the systems update automatically by default as part of the service, this ensures they always have the latest security patches and features without manual intervention. This is the best way to stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats!

6. Reducing Security Costs with Cloud Cameras

Without needing servers or extra infrastructure, organizations significantly cut both setup and ongoing costs. Quick installation and cloud updates further reduce IT overhead. Users report dramatic time savings in investigations, reduced system outages, and higher productivity altogether. This is not only beneficial to IT teams but for police in case an incident needs to be investigated.

7. How Does Rhombus Cloud Surveillance Stand Out?

In summary, Rhombus cloud surveillance shines through:

Simplified setup – Reduces hardware worries by removing the need of servers
24/7 access plus backup – Reliable recording even during outages
AI analytics – Rapid search, smart alerts, and insights
Seamless scalability – Multi-site management with centralized control
Broad integrations – Fits into existing workflows and ecosystems
Enterprise security – Top-tier encryption, compliance, and firmware protections
Cost-efficient Maintenance – Cheaper to deploy and maintain versus traditional systems

Ready to upscale your security cameras with a modern security system? Call our Chicago office at 773-388-1208 or email us at info@vintechnology.com. Cloud surveillance delivers a future-proof surveillance solution. One that’s secure, intelligent, adaptable, and remarkably user-friendly.  No more servers, no more complex setups, and no more being tied to a desk to manage your system.

The post Why is Rhombus Cloud Surveillance the Future of Security? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

In this blog, we will explore how a Nurse Call System operates and how it can be beneficial in healthcare settings.

What is a Nurse Call System?

A Nurse Call System is a communication platform that allows patients/residents to notify healthcare providers when they need help. Patients use a wall-mounted device to alert a nurse or other medical staff that they require assistance. These systems often include additional features like visual or audio alerts, mobile notifications, and even integration with electronic health records (EHRs).

How Does This System Work?

First, the patient/resident initiates a call by pulling a cord. This cord is wall-mounted in rooms, bathrooms, and common areas.

Signal Transmission: Once the cord sends the initial signal, the receiver picks up this signal and sends it to the appropriate Nurse Call Station. Each device is labeled with a unique ID to identify the location where the request was initiated. Because of this, staff knows exactly where the signal is coming from. All signals reach the receiver even in multi-story buildings ensuring that patients/residents get the help they need quickly. These alerts come in a variety of formats, such as light indicators, sounds, or even direct messages on a nurse’s mobile device.

Response and Resolution: Once the medical staff receives the alert, they will respond to the patient’s needs by physically visiting the patient or, in some cases, offering assistance remotely via a video. Some systems are integrated with healthcare records, so the nurse’s actions and the resolution of the request are automatically logged. This can be helpful for monitoring patient care and for compliance with health regulations.

Why is This System Beneficial?

A Nurse Call System is more than just a convenience for patients and healthcare providers. This system is a vital tool that enhances patient care and operational efficiency.

Here are the top reasons why Nurse Call Systems are beneficial:

1. Improved Patient Care

The primary benefit of a nurse call system is that it helps ensure that patients’ needs are met promptly. When patients can easily communicate with nurses or medical staff, it helps prevent unnecessary delays in care, addressing issues before they escalate. Whether a patient requires medication, assistance with mobility, or a check-up, this system ensures that their request is communicated quickly.

2. Increased Staff Efficiency

By streamlining communication, a Nurse Call System helps healthcare providers prioritize tasks and allocate their time more efficiently. The system allows nurses to receive alerts and quickly assess which patients need attention, leading to faster response times. In busy hospitals where nurses are responsible for multiple patients, a call system ensures that no one is neglected.

3. Enhanced Safety In Critical Settings

In critical care settings, response time is crucial. A Nurse Call System can be equipped with additional features such as emergency alerts for situations like patient falls or cardiac events. The system can immediately notify the closest staff members of an emergency, enabling faster intervention. Because of this process, it helps reduce the risk of adverse events and improve patient safety.

4. Patient Satisfaction

When patients can easily request help and receive a timely response, their overall satisfaction with care increases. This system fosters a sense of security and comfort for patients, knowing that assistance is reliable This contributes to a better patient experience, which is critical for hospitals looking to improve patient outcomes and ratings.

5. Compliance with Healthcare Regulations

Healthcare facilities are often required to meet specific standards and regulations concerning patient/resident care. By documenting when patients request help and how the request is handled, the system can support compliance with health and safety regulations. It also provides a record of response times, ensuring that patients are receiving care within the required timeframes.

A nurse call system is an essential tool for ensuring that communication in healthcare settings is effective, timely, and organized. By facilitating better communication between patients and healthcare providers, these systems improve the overall quality of patient care. Whether in a hospital, nursing home, or long-term care facility, nurse call systems help foster a healthier, more responsive environment.

Contact us at 773-388-1208 or info@vintechnology.com with your questions or to request a quote.

The post Everything you Need to Know About Nurse Call Systems appeared first on VinTech Systems.

And for owners of multi-family buildings, it pays off to prioritize a secure environment for residents. Can we discuss security risks faced by multi-family properties and provide tips to reduce these threats?

Reassess Your Buildings’ Security Risks

Security risks are unique depending on the property type, the area where it is located, and even the time of the year. It’s not only important to stay up to date with news but police crime statistics, and historical data can be great tools to identify new property risks.

For example, if you’re concerned about security in Multi-Family Properties and the buildings are located in Chicago, you can use The Chicago Police Department Clear Map. The map allows you to to enter the property address and filter crime records by date and type. The results will then divide crimes into property or violent categories. Property crimes include: burglary, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Once you identify and visualize the proximity of these crimes, it can help you decide which security measures are needed.

Lock your Doors and Windows

As a security expert, if we were ever going to stick with one recommendation that’s completely free, it would be: to develop a routine where you check all entry points to your property. We often repeat this because the most common points of entry for burglars are unlocked doors and windows.

If you find that there’s a breech in security, for example, tenants that leave the entrance door open or packages that are stolen, an access control system can help. An access control system can help you manage access and it’s a reliable solution to restrict multiple areas and buildings. Additionally, If units have sliding doors, provide a lock bar or rod to prevent these from being open.

Monitor and Update your Camera System

Many of our condominium and building clients opt to have cameras in each entrance. If you have a camera system, make it a habit to review footage everyday (or at least every other day) at a similar time. Regularly reviewing footage helps you spot unusual activity before it becomes a problem.

Additionally, scheduling maintenance checks every six months ensures your cameras are in top condition. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and enhances the overall security in your multi-family property.

Improve Outdoor Lighting

Lights for multi-family properties can be both aesthetically appealing and help step up that feeling of being welcomed and safe. Well-lit entrances, walkways, parking lots, and garages discourage crime and help residents feel safe.

LED lights are a good option for parking lots because they use less electricity, provide uniform light, and produce less heat. Some additional features include auto turn on and off depending on the time of the day.

Remember to ask residents to report if any lights are not working and replace them in a timely manner. Taking prompt action demonstrates that you’re committed to providing a safe building.

Protect your Valuables

To protect valuable items, keep them out of sight from outside windows and doors where they might attract burglars. If package theft has been reported in the area, consider restricting access to the mailroom with smart locks or access control.

Ask building residents to avoid leaving expensive items, devices, and equipment in plain view. If possible, require that renters purchase insurance and keep a detailed list of items that could be claimed if there’s an incident.

Engage with Residents to Improve Security

A strong security culture starts with informed residents. Regularly engaging with residents through meetings, newsletters, and social media makes them active participants in keeping the property safe.

Additionally, owners should encourage residents to report crimes to the property manager immediately after making a police report. This allows management to keep track of incidents and to take additional action if needed.

When you provide a fast and secure way of communication, you’ll build trust for better resolutions and less crime.

By adopting these habits, property owners and residents can work together to create a secure and welcoming environment. Remember, proactive security measures not only protect your property but also enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.

The post 6 Habits that Enhance Security in Multi-Family Properties appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Depending on the system, this will be an investment for the next 5 – 10 years and will play a vital role in day to day operations. If your goal is to increase the safety of employees, visitors, and reduce loss of valuable equipment, these are 6 options that most businesses consider.

Security Cameras provide valuable evidence in the event of a crime

From both owners and customers point of view, people are increasingly seeking more secure businesses. This is especially true in the Chicago area, where theft, carjackings and break-ins have noticeably increased since the pandemic era.

Security cameras can be a great option when your goal is to monitor activities inside and around your business. Most high-definition cameras record and send you notifications upon detecting motion. These alerts can be received directly to your phone if the system works with an App.

Additional services might include storing footage on the cloud. Security cameras and Cloud storage have become one of the most effective ways to work with police if an incident occurs. Video footage can aid law enforcement in investigations and can also be useful for internal reviews or insurance claims.

Beyond security purposes, cameras can be useful for tracking package deliveries. This perk, however, might be more important for establishments that don’t operate during regular business hours.

Alarm systems are crucial for discouraging criminal activity

The presence of alarm systems can deter potential burglars or vandals. Knowing that a business is equipped with alarms can discourage criminal activity.

Take for example, one of our clients that has a restaurant business.

Last year, two individuals tried to break in through the restaurant’s back door and outdoor security cameras captured the suspects. They were both seen approaching the back door of the business and forcing it open. As soon as the door was opened, video footage displayed the burglar alarm going off and the suspects running away immediately.

This rapid resolution works well because Alarm Systems can be connected to monitoring services and alert law enforcement or security personnel immediately. When a breach occurs,  this process ensures a swift response to potential threats, minimizing the risk of theft or damage.

An optional feature that can be added to alarms is Panic Buttons.  A panic button is essential to businesses that have a storefront but private offices can also find it useful if they need to de-escalate a situation that has gotten out of control. This alarm immediately alerts relevant personnel and provides your location and type of emergency.

For additional peace of mind, opt for a Panic Button that allows employees to not only send alerts indicating an issue but also receive confirmation that their alerts have been received.

Access control restricts entry to authorized personnel only

Access Control helps protect sensitive areas within the business and ensures that only qualified individuals can access specific resources.

This essential security tool supports your building’s daily operations. It provides easy access to tenants, maintenance crew, and outside contractors. This is why controlling your access control system remotely is helpful. You can easily provide entry to a locked site even when you’re not physically there.

Intercom systems improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization

Intercom systems are an innovative, convenient way to improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization. This service is ideal for offices that are not open to the public or have an “only by appointment policy.” If your employees are located in different areas of a building or in different buildings, you can effectively grant/deny access.

Additionally, an intercom system works well alongside surveillance systems such as cameras to make it easier to greet incoming visitors and direct them to certain areas of your business.

Security Gates Provide a Physical Barrier

Security gates provide a physical barrier for businesses with storefronts. Alone, they pose as a deterrent from crime, dissuading intruders from entering a property. Because they cover both doors and windows, burglars tend to perceive it as “too much work.”

In combination with a visible outdoor camera, chances are, intruders would move on to an easier target.

Security is essential for businesses. By incorporating one or multiple systems, electronic security plays a vital role in protecting from a wide range of threats, ensuring both physical security and peace of mind for business owners and employees alike.

The post 6 Business Security Essentials for Peace of Mind appeared first on VinTech Systems.

In the last few months, Chicago businesses have become a common target for “Crash and Smash” attacks and overnight break-ins. Thieves are targeting all kinds of businesses including those that were thought to be uncommon choices. One of the most frustrating issues is that the break-ins are often motivated by small amounts of cash or odd items like cooking oil from restaurants.

This was the case of local bakery Defloured, who was recently burglarized TWICE during the month of January. During the first incident, “ two male suspects broke the front window, entered and took an unknown amount of cash before getting into a dark-colored vehicle and driving east, police said.” The second incident was similar except it was the front door that was damaged and property was taken.

These crimes are frustrating for businesses because there is a great loss from the damage that’s done to the establishment and they are often forced to close temporarily to repair the damage. It’s an unfair situation for small business owners who lose business and are left with a feeling of vulnerability to it happening again.

Can your Business security system evolve to help minimize damage from local crime trends?

Simple changes like upgrading security equipment and training can make a real difference while an incident is in motion. This is how businesses can give a makeover to their burglar alarm and video surveillance systems to minimize loss.

Alarm Monitoring for Businesses

1. Have a plan to respond quickly when an incident is in motion. It’s important to store your alarm passcodes in a place that’s easy to access and only share it with employees you trust.  This includes regularly updating the contact list to ensure former employees are removed and new added. When a business owner stays up to date with this data, communication between your business and the monitoring company is more efficient.  In case someone tries to break-in, the alarm will be triggered and the monitoring company will call the contacts in your emergency list. Additionally, upon confirming the situation, they will dispatch police in just a few minutes.

2. Install additional motion sensors near windows and doors. Are there any additional areas in your business that need attention? Perhaps you only have sensors on the front and back door but want to secure a side window or gate? Reassessing you security needs will ensure that your business is not stagnant in any aspect including protecting additional areas that were originally missed.

3. Inform your security company of changes in schedule. Life happens and if your business undergoes a renovation or will be temporarily closed, inform your security company.  If they are aware of these changes, they can work with the monitoring station to better handle an emergency.

Video Surveillance for Businesses

1. Install additional outdoor cameras in entrances and exits or relocate a current camera to a more efficient place. In some instances, its not necessary to buy additional cameras but better distribute the ones you already have. if you are unsure if this can be done, a professional company can help you asses how to rearrange your system to maximize coverage.

2. Discuss new concerns with your security provider. Stay up to date with news and crime on your neighborhood to identify trends. If your business has outdoor security cameras and your footage can be of assistance, consider giving access to police. This way, burglars will be caught faster. Additionally, speak to your security provider to hear they recommendations.

3. Schedule training with employees to give them confidence to use the system efficiently. Do you have new employees? Skipping training is a big mistake! Everyone that operates the system should know how to manage simple features. These include playback, download footage, and passwords. When they’re know this process, it eliminates the need to call us for support. Not that we don’t want to help, but we want you to be confident and able to handle it all.

The post Does your Business Security System Need a Makeover? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

How Does Cloud-Based Access Control Work?

A cloud-based access control system is managed in a central station. It doesn’t need an onsite server and gives total control to grant or deny access remotely. Additionally, the system allows the creation of different levels of access for users and stores information on the cloud to have better control on security protocols.

Reduce Security Costs

Reducing costs is one of the incentives to choose a cloud-based access control instead of going the traditional route. The term “cloud” refers to a remote server, which reduces the costs of equipment in the initial installation.

Other ways Cloud-Based Access Control reduces costs:

1. Automatic upgrades. Cloud-based systems are upgraded automatically. Compared to on-premise systems that can go six months to a year between upgrades through a manual process, Cloud-based systems are often upgraded. Because of this, automatic updates reduce the costs of maintenance overtime.

2. Cost-effective management. Users can manage their security system from a single centralized location, thereby reducing the need for additional resources. Additionally, this type of systems require lower upfront costs than traditional systems.

3. Effortlessly Scalable. Cloud-based access control is designed to meet the needs of properties of any size including those that have multiple locations. Furthermore, the advantage is that if you need to secure more properties in the future, you’ll be able to integrate and manage these from the same central station.

4. Protection from Loss. Cloud-based systems offer additional protection from loss since the system cannot be destroyed by severe weather, theft, or destruction.

Boost Security in Your Property

There’s no greater incentive to upgrade your system than exactly why you got the system in the first place: boosting security in your property. A cloud-based system can boost your security by making it easier to manage, integrate with other systems, and having (unlimited) data storage.

Additional ways Cloud-Based Access Control can boosts security in your property:

5. Intuitive Systems. The latest security systems are designed to be intuitive and easy to manage. It’s time-efficient for users to investigate events and alarms across multiple areas.

6. Layered security. Data stored in the cloud is considered very secure when using a reputable provider. The data is encrypted and stored in secure servers.

7. Receive Alerts. Users can receive alerts when someone is trying to gain unauthorized access.

8. Integration with security cameras. If you have security cameras and want to integrate with your access control, you can! Users will then be able to see live video feeds of cameras deployed on-site.

9. Reduce cybersecurity risks. Transfer cybersecurity threats to the cloud provider who will monitor the system and reduce risks of hacking.

Switching to a cloud based system is a cost-effective solution for multi-unit properties and businesses of all sizes. Do you have additional questions about cloud based systems? Contact our security team at (773)388-1208 or email us at info@vintechnology.com.

The post 9 Ways Cloud-Based Access Control Reduce Costs and Boosts your Security appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Just this past Sunday night through Monday morning, a series of eight armed robberies and carjackings occurred in the South Loop and Northwest Side of Chicago. In each case, the victims were ambushed by two to four people and in some cases beaten and robbed.

This increase in serial incidents have prompted police to ask the public for help.

What can Residents do to Improve their Safety?

Download and Use the Chicago OEMC App

The official safety app of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) became available back in February.

It provides residents with preparedness tips, safety information, alerts, and the CHI Safe Walk. The CHI Walk feature shares your location with a friend or family member when walking or traveling alone. Additionally, it has the option to call the police by pressing only one button.

Download the app here

Collaborate with OEMC by linking Privately-owned Public Cameras.

Chicago property and business owners have the option to link their public cameras to the OEMC network. The main goal for residents to work with OEMC is to accelerate the process of solving crimes. When participating in the program, police are granted access to private public cameras. This minimizes valuable time that is spent calling, downloading, and sending footage from one individual to another.

One example of how communication can be delayed during an emergency is when an association or business has a new employee that doesn’t know the password or how to operate the system.

When something like this happens, we first contact the main account holder to approve the request. Once they approve it, we assist the new employee or walk them through the process of downloading the footage. And lastly, we save and send the footage to the police. This simple process can typically take a few days to complete and delay cases that are time sensitive.

Is Genetec Stratocast Video the Right Option for You?

If you are considering connecting your cameras to OEMC but still feel unsure about how this can help your organization, the experience of these two customers might help.

This is how these clients are using Genetec Stratocast cloud video surveillance to collaborate with Chicago police and manage their systems:

Client #1 – Parking Corporation

Our long time client, a parking corporation, wanted to connect their camera system to the Chicago’s office of Emergency Management & Communication (OEMC). With OEMC connection, police can access camera feed from outdoor cameras during emergencies and after appropriate notification has been given.

We recommended Genetec Stratocast video service as all cameras can be accessed and managed in the cloud.

We upgraded their 1080P HD camera to a 4K camera. The new system was not only compatible with OEMC but provided up to four times higher resolution than the standard 1080 resolution.

Client #2 – Apartment Complex

Another long-time client, an apartment complex, contacted us to replace their old camera system. They wanted the new system to be easier to manage and to have more coverage.

We replaced the old cameras with 4-lens cameras to provide 180 degree coverage.

They also opted to connect their cameras to OEMC. They report that the service makes it easier to manage the system from one central station and has improved communication with police during incidents.

Will Police Have Access to All My Cameras?

It’s important to clarify that police will only have access to cameras that are recording in public areas and will still communicate with the camera owner before accessing footage. This is also an agreement that could be revoked if the owner no longer wants to share access.

What do Property and Business Owners Need to do to Connect their Public Cameras to OEMC?

The most practical solution is Genetec Stratocast Video Surveillance. This is a well-established and reliable cloud solution that many associations, properties, and businesses are already using. Some of these include: The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council, The Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field ballpark, and SSA districts.

Want to implement the use of this technology to help reduce crime in Chicago? Contact us to discuss the process or to get a quote by calling 773-388-1208.

The post Can Public Cameras Connected to OEMC Reduce Crime? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

About our Client

Alice and Friends is a vegan restaurant that offers Asian-inspired dishes, specialty drinks, and house-made desserts in the Chicago area since 2001. In 2015, they installed a VinTech alarm system and indoor and outdoor security cameras. Their outdoor security cameras are registered with the City’s OEMC Program. This allows the Chicago Police Department access to public security cameras and collect evidence to solve crimes.

The night of the incident, Alice and Friends’ outdoor security cameras captured the suspects walking in the alley. The first suspect was slim-build and wore fitted black jeans, a dark-colored hoodie, and light-colored sneakers. The second suspect was medium-build and wore washed jeans, a dark jacket, and white and black sneakers. They were both seen approaching the back door of the business and forcing it open.

As soon as the door was opened, video footage displayed the burglar alarm going off and the suspects running away immediately.

The local alarm monitoring company called our client to confirm it wasn’t a false alarm. They dispatched police right away and law enforcement was able to verify that only one door was damaged.

The next day, police accessed the outdoor cameras to view footage.  At the same time, VinTech’s technical support team worked with Alice and Friends’ owner to review their indoor cameras.  They assisted in saving a copy of the incident’s footage and suggested cloud storage as an add-on service.

String of Business Burglaries in the Chicago Area

Alice and Friends’ incident is only one among a string of business burglaries that are increasing in the Chicago area. Suspects have switched their attention to restaurants, bakeries, and stores because of the possibility of finding cash or small devices that can be easily carried.

Since most businesses now receive payment with credit cards and other forms of e-payments, this means that burglars are willing to break-in and cause property damage over small amounts of cash.

All the meanwhile, small business owners can get stuck with costly repairs or lengthy insurance claims.

How can Burglar Alarms Reduce Property Damage?

A burglar alarm reduces property damage to businesses by preventing or deterring a break in. In the case of Alice and Friends, it prevented further damage to the restaurant and equipment by causing the burglars to panic.

In the aftermath of the incident, our client decided to add cloud storage service. With cloud storage, footage from their cameras is automatically saved to the cloud. This gives them peace of mind that even when physical equipment is destroyed or taken, footage is still stored.  In case an incident happens again, footage will be automatically stored and can be accessed anytime.

How to Choose the Best Security System for your Business

Because there isn’t a one-size fits all solution, the security provider you choose should be an expert in anticipating your unique needs.  Ask for a site survey where you can discuss how to best protect your property and potential challenges.

When securing a restaurant or small business, you are not only protecting your team but also potentially saving thousands of dollars by preventing damage to your property or equipment.

The post Alice & Friends Vegan Kitchen Avoids Theft with VinTech Alarm System appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Are you wondering if this service lives up to its hype and if it’s time to upgrade your video security system? Let’s discuss the most common questions.

What is Cloud Video Surveillance?

Cloud-based video surveillance is a type of video security that stores footage in the cloud. Unlike traditional systems that usually store footage on a device and have limited storage space, cloud storage has more capacity and preserves footage for a longer period of time.

Cloud-based cameras are also easy to install and use. And because there’s less equipment involved, maintenance is more cost-effective. In a sense, you get the best of both worlds. A system that combines the functionality of a traditional security camera system with the ease and increased safety of cloud technology.

How does cloud surveillance work?

Security Cameras will first capture footage, then send it to a remote server through the internet, and finally save it on the cloud (rather than a recording device). The term “cloud,” as previously mentioned, refers to the remote server where the footage is uploaded and stored.

Do you really need cloud video surveillance?

Currently, this is the safest option to store footage from camera systems. Think about the following scenario: Someone breaks into your home or business and steals the camera card or all the camera equipment. If they successfully remove the system, how would you have footage of the incident?

High quality footage is very helpful to police officers. It helps narrow suspects by providing details such as appearance, tattoos, clothing and time of the incident.

With Cloud storage, you can access footage from an incident that happened months or years before and not worry about losing a file.

Additionally, physical or local video recorders, especially older models, can be expensive to maintain. They need to be cleaned and tested at least twice a year and upgraded every few years. When you switch to a cloud system, it can help reduce the cost associated with maintenance all while taking advantage of additional features.

What are the advantages of Having a Cloud-based Video Surveillance?

Cloud Surveillance provides many benefits that traditional systems do not. Some of the most attractive ones include centralized management, remote access, and a significant reduction in system hardware. Other benefits include:
Watch live feed and recorded video directly from your smartphone and manage all your locations, mapping, and AI features for facial and license plate recognition. ALL INCLUDED!
Grant access to footage with multi-user permissions.

Back up locally recorded video to the cloud to reduce the risk of losing footage if traditional equipment gets damaged.
Unlimited notifications with a monitoring service. Receive an alert if there’s a problem with storage or recording. Additionally, connect motion and environment sensors, door/window contacts, and air quality to receive notifications from all these wireless devices.

Increase storage duration and capacity. Traditional systems have limited storage capacity and may overwrite previous footage. With cloud, storage duration and capacity can be upgraded.
Upgrade to a cloud service system that allows you to connect the camera onsite, no additional hardware needed.
Conclusion

Cloud systems are both the safest and most modern security option currently available. They require less space for equipment, reduce the cost of maintenance services, and prolong storage length and capacity.

Are you ready to make the change? Give us a call at 773-388-1208 or request more information at info@vintechnology.com.

The post Is Cloud-Based Video Surveillance Worth it? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

But what about small business and residential homes that have strong ties to the Chicagoland and don’t want or can’t afford to leave?

Feeling secure is not a commodity but a necessity for Chicago residents.

A VinTech employee who lives in Bowmanville, a family-friendly neighborhood in Chicago, says she had always felt safe living there. Then last week, a string of robberies close to her home  started to make her feel uneasy.

That Monday morning, she heard helicopters in the area for several hours.

The suspects were later arrested in Lincoln Square but not before 2 people were assaulted and the car that was used for the crimes crashed against a city truck.

Then a few days later, she opened her Nextdoor App to write this post:

“This morning, Wednesday Dec 21st, at around 3:05 a.m. I woke up to three gunshots that were at very close proximity. This occurred near Farragut and Hoyne in the Bowmanville neighborhood. Can anyone tell me if they heard them too? I’m shook because they sounded so close.”

Dozens of neighbors commented with support and what they were already doing as a response to the incident. Unfortunately, many agree that even when the act of violence is not directed at you, it can disturb your peace and routine.

How do outdoor security cameras improve safety?

Security cameras are not new to the City of Chicago who has a network of more than 50,000. In addition, last year’s Home and Business Protection Program provided a rebate for residents to install new outdoor security cameras.

In order to improve safety, one of the program’s requirements was to connect these public cameras to The City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications.

The OEMC is a “state-of-the-art unified video surveillance network” that officials and Homeland Security directors access “during emergency situations and after appropriate notification has been given.”

As part of the process, our technicians connected new camera systems to this network and trained clients to manage their new system. Additionally, our office staff provided guidance and the documentation needed to apply for the rebate.

Why are more Chicago residents and business owners installing outdoor cameras?

Deter criminals.
Most criminals want to commit a crime and move on to the next “best thing”.

Outdoor security cameras are different from other security systems because they are visible BEFORE the crime is committed. In conjunction with warning signs, they work to increase the perception that would-be criminals could be caught and punished.

Provide evidence. 
One thing that most Chicago residents will agree is that they don’t want offenders getting away with crimes.

Security cameras can capture criminals in the act but most importantly, they capture details. High definition security cameras can give significant clues like face features, tattoos, and vehicle license plates. When an incident occurs in front of your business or residence, you’ll be glad to have footage to provide as evidence to the police.  And with the video surveillance network, they will access the footage almost right away.

Why is a burglar alarm a necessity?

A recent FBI report, found that 1 in 3 homes without a security system will fall victim to a burglary as compared to 1 in 250 homes that do have a security system.

A burglar alarm can help decrease those chances and is one of the most cost-effective solutions to secure a home or business.
Get back your peace of mind.

An alarm system works with sensors. When a sensor is triggered, there’s a physical and electronic notification. The physical alert is useful if you are inside the home or business and to alert neighbors.

During the night, you can fall asleep more peacefully knowing that you’ll be alerted if someone tries to break into your home or business. This is a simple proactive action that can give you that peace of mind back.

When a professional company monitors your alarm, you’ll also have a faster response from the police and it’ll buy you some time to take charge of the situation.
Safety routine in Place.

Did you know that the most common points of entry for burglars are open doors and windows?

When you have a burglar alarm, it’s easier to be in control because it becomes part of your routine. If there are any tips you’ll ever want to follow are these three: Lock all doors (including the garage or back doors for businesses), lock all windows, and arm your alarm.

Reduce losses. 

A burglar alarm can be controlled remotely. From a phone App, you can arm and disarm your system, control your thermostat, and other smart devices. Everyday actions, overtime increases protection and reduces loss of valuable items and resources.

Want to discuss which system is best for your property?

Contact us with your questions at info@vintechnology.com and join the network of Chicago residents who are already using their systems to improve safety in their lives and neighborhoods.

Recent incidents that have been caught by businesses and residential cameras.

Robberies – Armed robbery in Lincoln Park of a woman who was visiting daughter from Wisconsin for Holiday shopping.
Car jackings. Car jacking assault caught on camera. Victim fought to get her dog out of the car.
Disappearances. The Wiener’s Circle provided footage that helped in the disappearance of Northwestern student Peter Salvino.

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