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“We set out to disrupt the outdated, legacy physical security systems “_Rhombus’s website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

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.

Here is how.

Receive a Discount on Insurance Premiums

Many insurance companies provide a discount on insurance premiums if the property has a security system in place. In a way, they are providing an incentive for theft protection and the possibility of reducing the number of claims. This is a win-win situation for a property owner. Not only will you get an initial discount but if your claims decrease, you will also keep premiums from rising.

If you are unsure about the requirements needed to get a discount, talk to your insurance provider to find more information. Many require a certificate of installation to verify that a security system has been installed in your property. If this is the case, the company that installed your system can provide this for you. Currently, VinTech Systems provides certificates of installation for burglar alarms only. Our clients for which we have installed alarm systems and have a current monitoring service can request a certificate.

Resolve a Slip and Fall Claim

According to the National Safety Council, falls accounted for more than 8 million injuries in 2019. To put it into perspective, 8 million is a lot when the City of Chicago reported to have 2.7 million residents in that same year. Moreover, more than 39,000 of these incidents resulted in deaths. This is why the possibility of an incident like this happening in your property should be taken seriously.

A slip and fall claim cannot only cost you thousands of dollars but it can also mean serious legal problems. This is where a high definition security camera can be helpful. Footage from a camera can help you dispute a false slip and fall claim. It can clear you from liability and even save you from receiving a fine or sentence.

Reduce or Replace Security Personnel

A security system might seem like a high investment at the beginning. Especially when you are trying to decide which system(s) are best for your property. However, if you already have security personnel in your building, those two or three salaries a year will probably add to a much larger sum after a couple of years. Additionally, unlike security guards, a security system can monitor 24hr/7.

A Security Camera System is Always Recording

For example, a high-definition security camera records motion and automatically stores footage. In case of an incident, this footage can be used for evidence. Nonetheless, some camera systems might have a storage limit. One of the factors that affect video storage is whether the camera is focused on high or low traffic areas.  This is why it’s important to download and save footage as soon as an incident happens. VinTech Systems takes pride in designing systems that work with the needs of our clients to make sure their footage requirements are met.

A second example is access control. This system can help you restrict who has access to your property and at which times. For example, office employees can be set up to have access to the front entrance of the building from 6 a.m. to  6 p.m., cleaning personnel from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and overnight security guards from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m. As precise as you want it to be, access control allows you to control who accesses your property. You will hold the “key” to your success in reducing incidents and losses in your property which in return will save you money. And although security systems cannot completely replace security personnel, they can effectively monitor activity and provide time stamped evidence.

Reduce Wear and Tear on Smart Devices and Cost of Energy Bills

The latest technology in security systems allows you to connect smart devices to remotely control lights, thermostats, and other appliances from an app. Turning off these appliances when not in use, can certainly reduce the cost of your electric bill. Furthermore, this capability can also extend the life of your devices. This means that more time will pass before you have to replace them.

The most important thing about having a security system in your property is to give you peace of mind but that doesn’t mean you won’t appreciate the additional perks. From saving time and resources to preventing losses, the right security system can save you money in more than one way. With these simple steps, you also make sure that you are getting the best return for your investment and help preserve valuable resources for future generations.

The post 4 Ways Security Systems Can Save you Money appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Property management companies and condo associations have their own rules for tenants. But what happens when a tenant’s guest damages the property or is caught engaging in inappropriate behavior?

A property manager at a condominium building was surprised to see footage from their elevator. A tenant’s guest had approached the property, was buzzed in by a resident, and used the elevator as a bathroom. The property manager reported that the suspect, accompanied by three other individuals, looked straight at the camera and smile.

Is it illegal to urinate in an elevator?

Inappropriate behavior while using the elevator is more common that we thought. With only doing a quick search online, we were able to find several articles and video footage of people using the elevator to urinate. Many others also engaged in other types of unusual activity. Are people not aware that public urination is illegal in all US states? We doubt it. Even T.V. shows have scenes like this and they all end up with the characters getting arrested.  Some others are even forced to be registered as sex offenders. It isn’t funny after all, is it?

How can a camera system protect your property from vandalism?

Footage from high definition security cameras can help a landlord or property manager identify the person who has damaged or vandalize the property. In the case mentioned above, security cameras were a crucial tool. The property manager was only able to have proof of what had occurred in the elevator because of the cameras that were recording.

Nonetheless, the video footage didn’t go to the police right away but instead, the incident was discussed with the unit owner. The video footage showed that these four individuals had entered that particular unit. The owner then received a letter from the condo associations’ attorney with a fine of $1,000 dollars. Of course, the tenants are responsible for paying this fine.

What if the tenant doesn’t want to pay the fine?

Tenants are obligated to pay the repair costs or fines for property damage. This is because most lease agreements specify that a tenant is responsible for any damages to the property. Damage can be caused by themselves and their guests. The tenant can discuss the incident with their guest and try to come to an agreement. Nonetheless, the fine is ultimately the tenant’s responsibility.

Not paying the repair costs or fine means the tenant would be breaking their agreement with their condo association. The property manager can then decide if they should ask the tenant to leave or provide footage of the incident to police. The suspect might not be forced to pay for damages but they can be charged with public urination or in some cases, indecent exposure.

This is what the Chicago Codified Ordinance 8-4-081 states about public urination:

“No person shall urinate or defecate on the public way, or on any outdoor public property, or on any outdoor private property. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), any person who violates this section shall be fined not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00. Or shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than five days nor more than ten days or by both such fine and imprisonment.”

So even though an elevator is indoors, it is also a public area. As mentioned earlier, if a person is charged and later convicted of indecent exposure, they not only have to pay a fine but they can be sentenced to prison time. In many cases, they will also be asked to do community service or register as sex offenders.

Will renters insurance cover the cost of property damage from a guest?

Most renter’s insurance don’t cover property damage caused by guests. This is why Condo Associations and landlords do well by protecting themselves with security cameras and specific types of property insurance. Additionally, having a detailed agreement between landlords and renters can save property managers from many headaches. Condo Associations are there to protect you but also have the freedom to have specific rules and fines to protect their properties. Security systems and detailed agreements are very important because as mentioned above you cannot rely solely on insurances. These often don’t cover and infinity set of events. One problem with these insurances is that these don’t cover guests and the other is that they have limitations.

Security cameras are an effective way to monitor suspicious activity. Monitoring your building regularly can help you prevent or minimize damage to your property. Sometimes, suspects won’t even bother hiding but when you have video evidence, it will be easier to be protected.

The post Why is a camera system an important asset to condo and multi-family buildings? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

1. Access your apps from a secure network

2. Identify if your app uses encryption

3. Update your App

4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)

5. Check your phone for malware

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See for yourself! Our entire team was moved by this video that went viral about a month ago. We want to share it because there is so much to reflect after watching it. Thanks to footage, perhaps we can see what seems to be a problem with a positive eye.

Youtube link

We always strive to provide expert security solutions for our clients. Not only do we love helping them achieve a more peaceful life, but we also strive to find the truth.  If you want to learn more about how to have a reliable security system, read more here: Why is a reliable security system important?

The post Video Surveillance Tells the Best Story appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The Security Technology Executive magazine wrote an article about local Chicago metal scrap yard Aluma. The scrap yard is currently working to overcome recurrent theft.

Why are Scrap Yards an Easy Target?

Aluma is not alone. Scrap yards have a history of being easy targets to thieves. Burglars know that scrap metal such as copper, aluminum, and pipes offer a quick a buck. Additionally, scrap metal is near impossible to trace if stolen. All of these factors combined create a perfect storm. Scrap yard owners loose thousands of dollars. For instance, a commercial sheet of stainless steel or aluminum can cost as much as $2,500.

In the case of Aluma, it was targeted by thieves during the night and losing thousands of dollar. The metal pieces burglars were stealing were very large and heavy.

Their first solution of hiring a security guard was costing upward of $10,000 a month. To save some money, but still protect their property, their next solution was installing a video surveillance system to be the “eyes and ears” overseeing their six acre site. Unfortunately, the system was giving false alarms every time the wind blew or it rained. Their security company reevaluated Aluma’s needs and concluded that burglars would require a vehicle to haul away their stolen loot. Wireless motion sensor transmitters were then installed at their three entrance/exit roads, triggering signals back to their central control station, and alerting of any unauthorized activity.

The end results

Aluma got a return on their investment by recouping their costs of installing their surveillance system. They reallocated their $120,000 security guard costs and completely eliminated being an easy target for theft.

With having scrap yards as a couple of VinTech’s clients, we know our clients have faced similar problems like Aluma. A surveillance system with remote viewing and motion triggers is one of best investments, and preventive measures, that a business so susceptible to theft could make.

The post Reasons Why a Scrap Yard is an Easy Target for Theft appeared first on VinTech Systems.

First, answer the following questions: What do I need my surveillance cameras to do? Are they going to monitor employees that I already know and can recognize on footage? or Do I need to monitor multiple faces in a crowded bar or parking lot?

Consider the differences between analog and IP Megapixel cameras.

Picture Quality/Resolution
Megapixel IP cameras have a resolution of up to 11 megapixels compared to analog at 0.3-0.4 megapixels. A higher resolution is imperative to identify faces features, items, and license plates. All of these features are forensic detail for loss prevention. Additionally, you will have the ability to zoom and enlarge an image far better than an analog camera.

Cost Effective and Efficient
A single Megapixel IP camera can replace the surveillance capacity of up to 24 analog cameras. These cameras have wider angles, clarity, and zoom capabilities. Furthermore, fewer cameras will require lower set-up costs and a faster installation. Less equipment will also mean decreasing maintenance costs. These lower costs include less hardware updates and lower costs for cable CAT5.

Technology Advancements
Nowadays, data is sent and received through a computer network. Because of this, users are now able to view surveillance system remotely. Furthermore, IP Cameras have an increased motion detection and sharper image quality even in poor lighting. Additionally, these cameras have progressive scanning capabilities. This feature eliminates the “flicker effect”. This is especially crucial for observing fast movement such as a criminal running.

Want to find more tips? Read our blog Security Cameras are the Best Witness Ever!

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When you are in the market for a surveillance system, knowing which cameras you need can be quite perplexing. When you talk to dealers, they tend to throw security industry buzz words around like confetti, PTZ this, Megapixel that, bullets, domes, DVR, Wah wah woh wah wah, Varifocal! Why is Charlie Brown’s teacher selling me security cameras? If you are one of the uninitiated, you most likely feel the same way. So in an effort to help you gain some understanding about surveillance cameras, we are starting a series of articles called surveillance cameras for beginners. So let’s get started. Please feel free to comment or ask questions; any experts reading this, please feel free to share your wisdom with us.

We’ll start off with Questions to ask yourself before you start shopping for surveillance cameras.

1) Application

What is the intended purpose of your surveillance system?

*Recording and Storing video, Monitoring one room or multiple rooms, Monitoring Entry doors or all access points

2) Indoor or Outdoor

Will your cameras be used indoors or outdoors?

*If outdoors, cameras need housing and enclosures to protect them from environmental conditions, such heat, cold, humidity, glare, rain, and snow.

3) Fixed Lens or Zoom Lens

Do you need to be able to zoom in and out of a scene?

4) Fixed Mount or PTZ (Point-Tilt-Zoom)

How important is it for you to be able to move the camera up, down, or side to side?

5) Real-time or Later Viewing

Do you want to be able to view video images as they happen or is storing images for later preferable?

6) Resolution

Do you just need an overall view or do you need to see details? This will help determine whether you should go Analog or Megapixel.

7) Local Viewing or Remote Viewing

Do you want to be able to monitor your cameras from anywhere?

Asking yourself these questions before you start shopping around for surveillance cameras will help get you thinking about what you really want and need in a surveillance system. Check back with us for Pt.2 of the Surveillance Cameras for Beginners series.

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