Video Solution Can Expand to Meet Future Needs
Jones knew that any new attempt at implementing a campus-wide security system would, in addition to cameras, need to factor in storage, network resources, more efficient hardware and a forward-thinking camera localization plan. Ultimately, a new video surveillance investment would need to offer long-term flexibility and be obsolete-proof, as the university’s future security needs expand beyond ¬surveillance.
Jones’ second search shifted from looking for security product vendors to identifying companies that offered manageable solutions. He eventually came across Omnicast, the IP-based video surveillance solution from Genetec, and according to Jones, the timing couldn’t have been better. “Right when we decided to deploy this solution, we were in the process of building 1,200 beds for the university residential living space, and there was a need to place cameras inside the residence house.”
Unlike the fragmented video camera system that was previously in place, Omnicast is an enterprise-class video surveillance solution that provides seamless management of digital video, audio and data across an IP network. This makes monitoring and managing information easier.
The new system was a hit right from the start. The implementation started in the residence halls, which were equipped with 40 cameras each. It then spread to other facilities on campus, such as receiving docks and the information center, where student records are kept.
Today, GSU has more than 260 cameras functioning on the system, which are positioned throughout the campus. Because the new implementation is scalable, GSU expects to increase the total number of cameras deployed on campus to 500. To ensure optimal management, the Omnicast solution is monitored daily by GSU’s security staff.
