PHOTO COURTESY OF GENETEC

Montreal-based Genetec™, a provider of unified IP security solutions, is introducing Stratocast™, which the company defines as “a powerful, yet easy-to-use Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) solution powered by Microsoft Corp.’s Windows Azure cloud-computing platform.” Genetec said Stratocast is designed to meet the needs of small and mid-sized businesses that are looking for a high-end and extremely reliable video security solution without the costs and complexities typically associated with installing and managing on-premise surveillance systems.

Because it will be sold and supported exclusively by Genetec’s Stratocast channel partners, end users will benefit from Genetec’s certified integrators’ installation expertise, security know-how, and ability to recommend the most appropriate product package for their needs, the company said. With minimum training and setup costs, minimal onsite equipment to maintain and manage, and no need for specialized/dedicated security or IT staff, users will be able to focus on their core competencies, while benefiting from a state-of-the-art security system to protect their employees, premises and assets, Genetec described.

“With Stratocast, we are bringing 15 years of expertise in developing safety-critical video surveillance systems for users that include the world’s most traveled airports, largest retailers, and Fortune 500 businesses…. Because Stratocast is affordable, easy to install and simple to use, quick-service restaurants, retail shops, office buildings, as well as sporting and musical events, will finally have the professional tools they need to secure their facilities, remotely observe their operations, and ensure a safe environment for their employees and patrons, at a price they can afford,” said Pierre Racz, Genetec’s founder and CEO.

With packages starting below $10 (U.S. dollars) a month per camera, Stratocast users will have access to some of the most advanced functionalities, the company said, including: HD video capture; intelligent video management features that automatically alert users when an activity or incident has occurred instead of having to review hours of recorded video; and the unique Cloud Federation feature, which allows enterprise users to easily add new cameras to remote/satellite locations and supplement their existing on-premise Security Center unified security management platforms. Other features such as robust edge recording and video trickling capabilities mean that cameras, bandwidth, and archives can be fine-tuned to each user’s needs and requirements, the company stated.

Genetec guarantees uninterrupted service 99.5 percent of the time, and offers what it describes as a fresh, modern and easy-to-use interface. Users will be able to quickly and reliably access live and recorded feeds from their Stratocast system from any computer, smartphone or tablet, the company said.

“Windows Azure gives customers a secure and flexible cloud platform that opens up new possibilities for delivering solutions such as high-end security services to businesses of all sizes. With Windows Azure and Stratocast, customers can automatically and safely store security assets, including video and related critical data, in the cloud so they can easily reuse, retrieve and analyze their data at any time, anywhere,” commented Mike Howard, chief security officer at Microsoft.

Stratocast will support a wide variety of cameras that feature “phone home” functionality, including both fixed and pan-tilt-zoom) cameras. With more than 40 models of Axis cameras available at launch, Stratocast allows customers to choose the most appropriate camera for the unique needs of their security installation.

“Most small and mid-sized businesses today still rely on analog cameras, and DVRs, for their security needs, but this is changing fast. With Genetec developing hosted cloud-based video and Axis delivering intelligent cameras designed to leverage the simplicity and ease of use of the Stratocast system, together we are driving the technology shift from on-premise to cloud-based video surveillance in small installations,” said Dominic Bruning, director Global Alliances at Axis Communications. “Building upon our long-standing relationship, we are thrilled to be the camera partner of choice for the launch of Stratocast.”

Stratocast will be demonstrated to the public for the first time at ISC West in booth 25049. To register for ongoing information about Stratocast, visit http://www.stratocast.com.