PM Q&As: HCP's open system architecture allows easy and convenient integration

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May 30, 2024

As organizations use increasing numbers of systems and devices, the need for integration becomes ever more important. Hikvision's HikCentral Professional platform's open system architecture provides a highly efficient and convenient solution. We spoke to HikCentral Professional’s Project Manager, Fred Wu, to find out more.

Q: Can you explain what HikCentral Professional is and the importance of developing integrations on this platform?

A: HikCentral Professional is versatile security management software that provides a unified platform for addressing various security challenges. It allows users to effectively manage multiple functions—including video, access control, alarm detection, and more—from a single place. Its extensive integration capabilities enable it to adapt to a wide range of requirements, extending its functionality beyond traditional security tasks.

Q: Could you give us an overview of HikCentral Professional’s integration and openness capability?

A: HikCentral Professional supports two primary types of integration. The first is device integration, which allows for incorporating multiple devices—such as cameras, alarm panels, and HVAC systems, using standard industry protocols such as Onvif, BACnet, SIA, Modbus. It also supports most proprietary protocols from other leading manufacturers. In this way, the platform can connect and manage both Hikvision and third-party devices.

The second type is system integration. This provides OpenAPIs for third-party system integration, enhancing overall system flexibility and allowing users to tailor solutions for over 10 distinct scenarios. The integration is facilitated through standard industry protocols like BACnet and SIA, as well as database systems including SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL. For example, the integration with HR systems for handling attendance data, and with industrial control systems for thermal imaging and video review functionalities.

Q: What are the advantages of these integration and openness capabilities for users?

A: Integrating different devices into a single platform offers a more streamlined management process, reducing both operational complexity and costs. For third-party systems, opening up our platform facilitates rapid scalability and eliminates the expense and effort involved in developing new subsystems, thereby accelerating business growth and efficiency.

Q: Could you give real-world examples of how these integrations benefit various scenarios?

A: Take the example of a warehouse, factory, or building where alarms need to work in sync with video security devices. Traditionally, false alarms require manual verification, which is cumbersome, especially when handling devices from different brands across separate platforms. With HikCentral Professional, device integration means these devices can be managed with a single, unified platform. This makes it more efficient to configure alarms and verify video feeds. It is a streamlined approach that is enhancing operations around the world, especially in Europe, Asia, and MENA.

In another example, many companies with specialized access control and attendance management systems wish to integrate Hikvision’s hardware—such as MinMoe Face Recognition Terminals—to enhance their operations. HikCentral Professional makes this very simple by syncing new Hikvision device data with existing systems. This delivers comprehensive access control and detailed reporting using familiar management tools.

Q: What technologies and APIs does HikCentral Professional offer to support integration?

A: We provide a suite of APIs, including a No Plugin Solution accessible through a web portal, to simplify the system integration process. Our detailed technical documentation, code samples, and comprehensive tools are designed to assist users in quickly building and customizing systems. We continuously update our offerings with new APIs and standardized protocols to ensure users have the most advanced, reliable tools at their disposal.

Q: How does the Hikvision Technology Partner Program (TPP) enhance user experience?

A: The Technology Partner Program is fundamental to the Hikvision ecosystem. By collaborating with our global technology partners, we bring our customers tried-and-tested solutions that greatly extend the benefits of Hikvision products. These partnerships not only ensure reliability but also leverage collective expertise to deliver high-quality, tailored solutions that meet a diverse range of demands from our customers.

Find out more

To find out more about HikCentral Professional and its integration capabilities, please visit the website . You can also contact us and we will be happy to provide more details on the benefits of HikCentral Professional for your business.

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