American Fibertek, Inc. announces the new Pilot v4.5 enterprise video management system (VMS), a complete management software system offering enhanced client- and server-related features and new software drivers to support integration of even more video, audio and data products, environmental sensors and network switches.
At the server level, Pilot v4.5 offers dashboard-based server and web server network port setup, an improved action log mechanism and the ability to store data to NAS (network attached storage) devices. Simple software installation facilitates setup for new users, while extended functions expand capabilities for advanced users. The new dashboard also provides information on support issues and collects all loggings in detail, while protecting confidential information. The web server can now send less data (CIF if mobile) for cameras with high resolution. An improved storage buffer mechanism responds if controllers are too busy.
New Pilot v4.5 features also improve client operation, with the addition of a user-friendly floor plan with additional views and tours with custom icons. An action log allows selection of a camera to call video recording. Improved timeline control facilitates playback of multiple audio/video and data channel recordings. Export of video is also faster than before, and the available point-of-sale (POS) client module has new functionality. Reports can include a custom logo, and there is a new splash screen (once a day) on startup to announce news (if the Internet is available).
Another new feature of Pilot v4.5 is availability of management reports about camera and system use. An optional monitor wall functionality module can be controlled from the client. New software drivers support hardware from Samsung, Axis, Pelco, Basler, Sony, Arecont Vision and other suppliers.
"Our Pilot software handles data and video in a way that enables it to interact with the data platforms from a majority of access control and other data-generating sources," said Jack Fernandes, CEO and President of AFI. "Our introduction of the newest version of Pilot is well-timed to provide an even more functional system as the industry transitions to IP-based systems, a trend that is evident to anyone walking around this year's ASIS show floor."
The Pilot VMS is part of AFI's "open path" commitment to system integration and operates with major manufacturers of IP cameras and video streamers. Combined with video codecs, Pilot software can integrate with existing legacy analog systems to form a hybrid solution. A very significant feature is Pilot's ability to control multiple DVRs, codecs and IP cameras to create a unified control platform. Pilot software also reads alarms and status of AFI's Commander switch and Scout environmental products to form a complete network monitoring command centre.
