Protecting cameras and reducing false call outs with SpiderEx

If you are the owner of a CCTV system, or an engineer on call-out for an alarm trigger, then you know the nightmare that is spiders nesting over CCTV cameras. Whether you’re wasting personal time trying to bat the critters away, or you’re wasting precious business time when you realise your call out is nothing more than an 8-legged creature, there is a solution that works to protect your cameras and reduce false call outs.

“We’ve had problems with spiders setting off the burglar alarm. Since we used this spray no more false alarms.” – Amazon Review by B. Moroney

spiderex features

Keeping Spiders off your cameras

There are many methods that people use in attempt to keep spiders from nesting in their homes: conkers, lime juice, WD40, strong smells. However, what happens when you need this removal on your CCTV equipment? Equipment that you have invested money into and wouldn’t exactly want to squirt lime juice on, tie conkers to or spray with WD40 and potentially damage the lens. It is difficult to find a solution that works precisely for outdoor security equipment such as CCTV cameras.

“Great stuff for use on CCTV camera areas that keep attracting spiders where the IR heat attracts them. I spray this around the area on the wall and on the camera casing to deter spiders from making webs. Best used for me when I use a long reach duster to spread the repellent around the lens and around the camera mouth on the wall. Well worth the cost.” – Amazon Review by Nigel

Introducing SpiderEx spray

As a company in their 22^nd year of trading in the security market, we picked up on the spider problem through personal experiences and created a product to prevent spiders nesting over CCTV cameras. The amount of false alarm triggers that insects set off is 30% according to Which News. Specifically, they state that “cleaning your alarm sensors should prevent spiders creating webs and walking across them, which causes a lot of false alarms”. With SpiderEx, spiders won’t even approach your sensors, let alone get the opportunity to walk along them!

“I have the biggest phobia, and to me this is just the best product ever! Been using this for 10 years and couldn’t live without it.” – Amazon Review by Caroline

How SpiderEx works

The heat from the IR on CCTV cameras, as well as the fact other bugs hide there, attracts spiders to nest in and around the CCTV lens. SpiderEx is an aerosol spray, specially designed to remove spiders from any area it is applied; in this case, your CCTV cameras, camera housing and alarm sensors (indoor and outdoor). It does not leave any sticky marks or residue. It leaves a clear formula that is hard to see and sets into a lacquer. Simply spray the product 30cm away from the area you wish to apply it to. If using on security equipment, cover the optical surface with a clean cloth whilst applying SpiderEx onto the camera housing. Our spider spray is completely safe too! SpiderEx has a full professional and domestic license granted by the HSE (number 8682). SpiderEx will work by deterring spiders from all security equipment. If you are using the product indoors, please ensure the room is well ventilated and pets are removed from the room whilst spraying the product.

“Spiders on my CCTV cameras drove me mad – hundreds of motion recordings and alerts every night because spiders just love my cameras. One quick squirt put a stop to them and didn’t interfere with the clarity of the videos at all. The first spraying lasted over 3 weeks until we had very heavy rain – the first sign of a spider’s leg and I resprayed. I was initially put off by the price but I can tell this one can is going to last months and I won’t hesitate to replace it. Great product, highly recommend.” – Amazon Review by Ethel

Watch the SpiderEx video

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Alternatively, contact QED today to order SpiderEx. Call: 01772 336 111, Email: sales@qedgroup.co.uk

Silvernet improve their cost effective range of WISP equipment

The Silvernet ECHO Product range is especially suited for rural and WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider) type applications where cost is most important. The ECHO-ST will save money, whilst servicing the need to construct a solid and reliable wireless system. Therefore, replacing the requirement for expensive leased lines.

Silvernet have improved a number of areas of the ECHO system for G2 whilst not increasing the cost. Improvements include:

Improved Mountings
Upgraded PSU
Expanded firmware features (this also operates on the G1 version)
Improved SilverView integration

Silvernet ECHO Map

Did you know the ECHO has a feature called phase shift? This nudges the rf channel across 5Mhz and means that the signal is undetectable to non-ECHO WiFi devices. Additionally, to assist installation engineers, Silvernet have provided default configuration files for UK band B or band C. This ensures it is easy to setup an ECHO wireless link legally for UK installations.

Contact QED for more information:

Call – 01772 336 111
Email – sales@qedgroup.co.uk

Silvernet ECHO

Robust Testing in the Uniview Laboratory

Uniview is one of the world’s leading IP surveillance manufacturers and is one of the top 6 providers of IP security solutions globally, operating in over 145 countries. Their feature-rich and well constructed security products are available at costs to suit all budgets.

They have an impressive laboratory with over 2,000 people dedicated to research and development (R&D). Uniview continuously quality test all products in the Laboratory to create products that are tough enough to conquer every type of environment and is smart enough to adapt to complicated lighting situations.

Uniview pioneered innovative technologies through robust quality testing with 15% of their revenue constantly invested back in to R&D, it goes to show Uniview always push the edge of high quality and are at the forefront of IP innovation. Each product is meticulously designed, engineered, and crafted until it withholds Uniview’s industry-leading quality standards. For example, during the hardware development process, the products endure multiple stages of robust testing to guarantee quality in the product lifetime such as:

Test Component Quality
Board Circuit Test
System Test
Harsh Environment Test
Manufacture Ability Assessment
Automating Functioning Test (checking the component before it is assembled)
HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Test – a stress testing method for enhancing product reliability)

This high quality testing is proven with less than 1% failure rate worldwide, ensuring you get continuous security surveillance and continuous surveillance protection of your business and your people. And more importantly it saves the businesses and installers time and money through unparalleled video surveillance without any failure related call outs.

Watch the video of the Uniview Laboratory

Uniview’s Components Analysis Laboratory provides reliability tests on optical, mechanical and electrical components. It selects the highest quality components to ensure the quality of products.

To find out more about the Uniview range, contact QED:

Call: 01772 336 111
E-mail: sales@qedgroup.co.uk
Shop Uniview range

Places of Worship Protective Security Fund now worth £1.6 million

Following the tragic Christchurch mosque shootings in March, the UK Government has increased its Places of Worship Protective Security Fund to £1.6 million. This is double the amount available last year and is a clear indication that vulnerable sites are actively looking to install additional security solutions against extremist behaviour. Furthermore, applicants are no longer required to prove previous experience of hate crime.

The application process is only open until 31st August. So, if you look after such sites, you may be interested in reviewing your security measure.

Consider these three options and take advantage of the fund.

Keeping you safe…

nexus lockdown security system

The NEXUS LOCKDOWN SYSTEM has been designed as a rapidly deployable system comprising internal and external wireless call points with sounders and beacons. No wiring is required meaning that a full system can be installed in a matter of hours to minimise disruption.

When one NEXUS unit is activated, it will trigger all units in wireless range. Using a proven secure mesh protocol, an alert or lockdown message will sound with a visible flashing beacon. The recording can be customised or you can use our standard lockdown message. An email alert can also be set up. In turn, this can be forwarded to relevant personnel when the system is activated.

Security and safety…

Uniview CCTV Security Camera Kits

If you already have a lockdown system and protocol, you may want to consider additional security. For example, being able to follow and monitor inside and externally around your building. Uniview and the IndigoVision ranges offer such security surveillance. From 4 camera kits with exceptional features to high end security systems. Call us for a demonstration or more information on this option.

If you’d like a system that allows you to send “live” announcements take a look at the Magna Public address system.

Take advantage of the fund before it ends.

Contact us now and will offer advice on the best system to meet your demands to keep everyone safe.

T: 01772 336 111
E: sales@qegroup.co.uk

Uniview PTZ Camera in City Centre Surveillance

As a leading video surveillance manufacturer, Uniview contributed to the development of a high quality and stable video surveillance system for a city surveillance project. Uniview provided video surveillance devices for transportation monitoring by installing PTZ dome cameras and NVRs on more than 40 main roads and junctions. This project monitored all the main traffic junctions to reduce traffic congestion. All the cameras were connected by fibre links, so they could easily be watched “live” and monitored from a central location.

High resolution: see farther, see clearer

Uniview deployed more than 3 dome cameras at each junction, and as a result, provided clearer images for complicated scenes of vehicles and passengers. The PTZ dome cameras also support optical zoom, which enables you to view more than 150m (492 ft). Visual distance and clarity of image is critically important for investigation of any incidents when they occur.

starlight uniview

Starlight: see clearly in the dark

The PTZ dome camera’s were equipped with Starview. Starview can produce crystal clear video images under extremely low illumination at night for both static and moving scenes, which redefined this series of cameras.

In order to keep the system working with highest levels of safety, the NVR’s support HDD hot swap with RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 configurations. Even if one of the hard disks fails, the NVR can prevent the loss of data and rebuild RAID in a short time. The NVR provides 90 days of uninterrupted recording, 24/7. Therefore, it is possible to quickly and easily search through the video at any time during this period.

Why choose Uniview?

Uniview is a pioneer and leader of IP video surveillance, and was the first manufacturer to introduce IP Video Surveillance in China. They are also now the third largest player in video surveillance in China. Uniview has the 6th largest global market share (IHS Research). As one of the world’s leading video surveillance solution providers, they are covering more and more industries including hotspot venues, commercial and retail parks, city and residential surveillance, banks, hospitals, education, factories and more. Uniview will not compromise on quality and continues to provide cutting edge technologies for its global customers.

Please come and talk to us about any bespoke requirements you may have. Our team of experts are extremely knowledgeable, and will recommend the right products and flexible solutions suitable for your project.

Call: 01772 336111
Email: sales@qedgroup.co.uk

IndigoVision and QED form new partnership

Here at Quality Essential Distribution, we commit ourselves to ensuring you receive the best experience with us, from your initial purchase right through to installation. We are the security distributors that focus on providing excellent after-sale support, an efficient Consignment Stock service, and not to mention our free product training courses. After twenty years of distributing a vast range of security products, we formed our most exciting partnership yet.

The IndigoVision range:

Following the new and exclusive partnership with Global Giant, IndigoVision, QED are now an official distributor of their CCTV range. IndigoVision provide open, end-to-end video security systems where performance and stability go hand-in-hand. With no single point of failure, the ability to add any number of products to your installation and a system that’s incredibly network friendly, you can be reassured your security system’s performance is top-notch.

IndigoVision in EV Brochure

Furthermore, the open design provides unrivalled flexibility. Allowing you to integrate other manufacturers’ security systems, or pretty much anything with the Software Development Kit. This innovative range of products are all designed with enhancing your security in mind. Everything works together – powerfully and seamlessly. Making you feel safe through reliable and performance-driven security systems.

Thoughts about the new partnership

Matt Philp, Product Development Director at QED is very confident about the new partnership. “We chose to partner up with IndigoVision because they provide a unique product range, whilst withholding the same values as QED: they put the customer first. Also, it’s not just about providing excellent quality cameras, it’s about the ease of use for the end-user. After sales, reliable and knowledgeable technical support, and how satisfied our customers are when they buy from us are all important factors. This is what we mean by an empathetic approach to business. We put our customer’s feelings first, and IndigoVision align very well with this approach.”

Nicholas Latham, IndigoVision Regional Sales Manager also said: “IndigoVision are confident that the range will be very popular with existing QED customers. We look forward to a long, successful relationship.”

As of September, the IndigoVision range will be available to buy from the QED website. For now, download our new Energy Vault brochure which provides a sneak peek into the new IndigoVision range. For more information, speak to a member of our team now on 01772 336 111.

Pictured above is Bank Hall Street Station where the Energy Vault is being tested.

In a continuously innovating modern world in which technology advancements seem to have no boundaries, rail stations are now facing increasing pressure to deliver on expected energy requirements and carbon footprint reduction.

A recent announcement of the 25-year plan to protect the environment has indeed triggered our awareness for the desperation of ‘A cleaner greener Britain’: the next ambitious milestone to de-carbonise the UK. Yes, the country has been a world leader in cutting emissions so far and strives to reduce emissions further, but we will fall short of our ambitions unless solid plans are put into place and soon.

The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is a tax that adds around 15% to the energy bills of all businesses, with the aim to reduce carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency. Some businesses can negotiate discounts with the likes of Climate Change Agreements (CCA) – a voluntary agreement between the Environment Agency and UK industries. On behalf of the country, the scheme aims to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency.

With that said, the country could still miss set targets for 2020; it is evident that more needs to be done. Some companies are realising that not only do they need to meet expected targets, but they can in fact make a considerable difference by taking actions into their own hands to contribute towards the Clean Growth Strategy.

Station Infrastructure Challenges

It is safe to say that low voltage devices have been emerging into modern rail stations gradually over the years with the introduction of IP (Internet Protocol) devices. Low wattage consumption for IP CCTV and all business necessities for UK rail stations are now being designed and implemented across the country. Emergence of these IP and PoE (Power over Ethernet) devices has very much challenged the traditional cabling architecture; not forgetting the focus on renewable energy solutions and carbon footprint reduction too.

Merseyrail have been testing QED’s Energy Vault (EV) for a considerable amount of time now at Bank Hall Street station. Network Rail standards state that a UPS system must be capable of supporting the entire system for a minimum of 1 hour. The problem is that the rack providing SISS equipment provides only 1-hour autonomy and therefore, any PoE devices will shut down.

Energy Vault unit and control box.

The Energy Vault battery storage system is not only in the process of obtaining PADS approval from Network Rail but also provides autonomy that exceeds the basic standards; stretching above and beyond expectations. QED’s own tests have proven that the EV can run 96 cameras whilst providing autonomy of the rack and cameras for 19 hours. Additional benefits that the Energy Vault provides are carbon efficiency and the capability to distribute electricity off-grid throughout the day, eliminating the requirement for a UPS back-up system. The EV’s ability to reduce CO2 emissions stems from the efficient elimination of AC-DC conversion. Due to the device being based on a DC infrastructure, it is not required to convert, meaning it can plug directly into renewable energy sources without losing any power.

Impressive Results

Paul Collins, Asset Project Manager at Merseyrail stated: “The EV has performed better than anticipated. We operated the load off-grid all day and night to then charge it back to 100% capacity between midnight and 1:30am. It was consistently reliable and supplied continuous electricity to our cameras, NVR, and Network Switch. In the near future, we are looking to implement the device into larger stations with renewable sources.”

QED monitored the system from 5th-22nd January 2018 to demonstrate the Energy Vault’s performance. Whilst running the station cameras, NVRs and switches from the device, the unit operated beyond expectations due to low load demand. The 1.2kw system only required 500 watts for 1.5 hours of recharging time.

Chart showing the load and usage of the Energy Vault in blue (approximately 25-30w of usage). The charging periods are displayed in orange.

Not only does the Energy Vault reduce carbon footprint and allow you to operate off grid, it can ensure the continuous operation of SISS and other low voltage devices which are a necessity for the day to day running of a modern railway station. As mentioned previously, there is an increasing pressure for the department of transport to deliver on expected energy requirements and carbon reduction. As more and more people become aware of the need for ‘a cleaner, greener Britain’, more and more people are taking matters into their own hands and doing their part to contribute towards the future of the proposed Clean Growth Strategy.

Could Energy Vault be the missing link between renewable energy sources and all up and coming new low voltage technologies?

Until next year, UKCW!

QED had a fantastic few days at Energy 2017. The exhibition exceeded expectations with a bustling stand, great leads and outstanding clientele. Overall, we had a busy, fun and beneficial week!

Energy 2017: Q&A

Following on from the show, we interviewed QED Product Development Director, Matt Philp. Matt shares details of the show such as how we found our first ever exhibition and what we will do differently next year!

Q: Have you exhibited before?

A: No, this was our first time at UKCW. As a distributor of CCTV products, our target audience is usually security installers. We previously didn’t think that UKCW was best for our product set. However, this changed this year as we launched our new ‘EV – Energy Vault’, which fitted into the energy sector perfectly.

The Energy Vault (EV) eliminates the need for a UPS as it provides power throughout the day instead of just during power outages. In fact, our own tests have proven that the EV can supply 96 cameras for 19 hours; then fully charge back to 100% capacity within 5 hours. All whilst requiring 60% less rack space and no maintenance requirements.

Q: What made you choose Energy 2017?

A: We chose Energy 2017 because the NEC is in a great location where many companies commute from all over the country. Birmingham itself is within 3 hours of travelling for majority of the UK – whether that be by train or car. As a first-time exhibitor based in Preston, the NEC was close enough for members of our team to visit and help out.

Q: How did you find your first exhibition experience?

A: As a first show, we set realistic targets of success. We achieved this early on the first day and it was overwhelming how well our product was received. The standard of clientele was outstanding, with a constant flow of visitors to the stand. Lots of people participated in our competition too, which is always a bit of fun for everyone.

Q: Is there anything you would do differently?

A: To be totally honest, we were slightly naïve this year. As you know, we’ve never exhibited before and so we’re still learning. We seemed to believe two people could set up the stand, be on the stand for all three days, take it down and load it into the van! At Energy 2018, we will organise the van-to-stand process better to make sure it is less labour intensive. Next year, we will also take advantage of the scanners which allow you to record other people’s badge information.

Q: What are you going to do post-exhibition?

A: We will announce the winner of the drone competition and spread the word on our social media. We will also follow up the many leads and contacts who demonstrated interest in the product; including several consultants that committed to the EV system.

Q: Will you be exhibiting again next year?

A: Yes. We have in fact already booked our exhibition space. We have started to improve our stand with larger exhibiting area and a bigger stand too. Next year, we will include more members of the QED team to help with the demand.

If you want to find out more about the product, feel free to visit our blog to read more:

Local Ribble Valley MP and QED’s EV

Amidst the launch of their new power storage unit, QED’s EV has sparked interest with local Ribble Valley MP, Nigel Evans. As a resident of the district for 26 years, Mr. Evans commits to supporting local businesses and fighting for local public services.

Recently, Mr. Evans hosted his 26^th Annual Summer Surgery between Monday 25^th – Saturday 30^th September, in which QED attended. They discussed with him their new and innovative power storage device which can reduce electricity consumption by 100% when combined with solar or renewables. Not only did the product itself spark great interest with the Ribble Valley MP, but he also demonstrated great enthusiasm towards its potential. Mr. Evans’ eagerness to learn more about the EV could link to the fact that in recent news, he was delighted by the Government’s decision to invest £246 million to develop battery technology; evidently in support of renewable energy solutions and a greener country.

Left to Right: Matt Philp (QED Product Development Director), Tracy Mina (QED EV Project Support), Nigel Evans (Ribble Valley MP)

Whilst outlining the importance of making the UK a world leader in battery technology, Evans stated that “the role of batteries in a low-carbon economy is absolutely imperative, whether it be in the use of automobiles, household electronics or on an industrial scale.”

So, what is the EV? And how is it beneficial?

The EV is an energy-efficient battery storage system that allows you to charge, store and distribute electricity over PoE. The system reduces your electricity consumption up to 100% when used with Solar or Renewables; and up to 66% against other storage systems. This revolutionary product enables the flexibility of PoE Distribution for both PoE devices and everyday electronic devices such as tills, credit card machines, lighting, PC’s and CCTV Equipment. In other words, any items powered by a DC supply.

Consignment Stock Explained

At QED, we are proud of being able to offer our customer’s a service such as consignment stock.

Are you fed up of paying delivery for multiple small order quantities? What about even when our next day 10:30am delivery is too late for you? Then you would have to source the equipment locally; losing valuable time. Furthermore, how does less paper work sound? And how about your stock being available 24/7?

I hope we have got your attention. You’re probably thinking that it sounds too good to be true. However, at QED, we value our customers and consistently prioritise you and your business’s needs. Hence why this service is entirely beneficial to you.

Interested?

Example: You could order 6 month’s worth of stock in one order which would potentially result in free delivery*. Then, your stock is delivered and stored on your site, available 24/7 to use. Even better, we audit your stock at the end of every month so you simply do not have to do anything. Admin will decrease with only one invoice for your order and lastly (the best bit), monthly inventories are taken so that you will only pay for the stock you have used, nothing more.

*Free delivery on orders over £250

Consignment Stock Infographic:

We truly believe this service is of fantastic benefit to your business. Call us today on 01772 336 111 or email the team at sales@qedgroup.co.uk to sort your consignment stock delivery today.

For more information, visit our services page on our website.

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