There is an increasing demand for mobile, field based CCTV systems especially on trains and busses. These systems capitalise on Power over Ethernet and wireless LAN technology to reduce installation costs and make data upload to a central server very easy. The diagram below identifies the basic system architecture of a modern NVR based surveillance solution.
Solution overview
Rugged PC
At the heart of each in-vehicle video system is a rugged PC that must be capable of withstanding the high degree of shock and vibration transmitted through the chassis of the vehicle. Wide temperature operation and direct DC powering also makes the unit suitable for a vehicle environment. More information on Mobile PC / NVR can be found here.
PoE Switch
A power over Ethernet switch distributes data between cameras and the central PC and removes the need to supply power to each of the cameras. Power over Ethernet reduces the cost and complexity of camera installation. Amplicon have recently released a unique Ethernet switch designed for PoE applications in the security market - the AES-208P.
Wireless LAN
A wireless LAN card added via an expansion slot in the rugged PC provides an automatic connection to the wired network when the vehicle returns to base. Using a WLAN card with an external connector allows the appropriate length of co-axial cable and antenna to be added. WPA encrypts the transferred data providing end to end security.
Software
The generic hardware platform described above requires software to transform it into a customised CCTV solution. System integrators may choose to develop their own software or off-the-shelf packages such as 'Milestone' can be installed, removing software development overhead and facilitating a shorter time to market of the complete in-vehicle video recording system. Being able to choose the right software for each application gives far more flexible than using a single type of portable / mobile DVR.
Amplicon can advise on all aspects of an in-vehicle surveillance solution. If you would like more information please call sales on 01273 570 220 or email security@amplicon.co.uk
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