Outdoor Video Security: Success Factors
Sightlogix recently produced an interesting white paper on outdoor video security: http://www.sightlogix.com/pdfs/WP_Automated_Outdoor_Video_SightLogix.pdf
Although the white paper is primarily a marketing piece for Sightlogix, it highlights some common problems that security departments experience when managing outdoor video cameras, and proposes some interesting technological fixes.
Overall the paper presents some very good information for purchasers to consider when attempting to evaluate competing technologies on factors other than simply price.
The problems with outdoor video cameras:
1) False alarms - poorly deployed cameras and motion detection systems have a tendency to issue false alarms based on windy conditions, traffic vibrations and weather.
2) Camera malfunctions - cameras break and need repairs due to temperature fluctuations, humidity, dust & sand
3) Missed events - this can be due to poor placement, poor image quality, poor lighting, etc.
4) Lack of information - due to limited camera information, first responders may not be able to detect the cause of the initial alerts
5) High costs - repeated false alarms and constant maintenance are an inefficent use of security resources
The (sightlogix) solutions:
1) Eliminate False Alarms - Filters reduce the number of false alarms caused by weather conditions and moving foliage. Cameras self-adjust to changing light conditions and set rules for reporting based on object movement and speed.
2) Provide a clear picture to operators - Cameras provide a highly detailed view to allow operators to quickly and easily recognize object images.
3) Accurately report target locations - Cameras report GPS coordinates and display the intruders' location on a topology map.
4) Contain costs - superior environmental design allows for lower maintenance and a greater sensor range allows for the deployment of fewer cameras.
Reliant Security works with our systems integration partners to design, deploy and operate the most current and cost effective security solutions in the industry.
Sincerely, Matthew Cooper, CPP VP Reliant Security