AXIS P3301 is ideal for surveillance in exposed indoor environments

Mission

Cape Quarter prides itself on being ‘the only place to be in Cape Town'. As a one-stop destination for sumptuous restaurants and unique lifestyle shops, Cape Quarter offers visitors a chance to indulge in some retail therapy in the splendour of this architecturally superb shopping mall. In an environment such as this, the safety and security of patrons and tenants is essential. Cape Quarter Property Company (Pty) Ltd. contracted the services of security consultant, Nigel Versfeld of Diversified Security Engineering, to provide a fail-safe security solution.

Solution

Nigel enlisted the assistance of Visec International CEO, Gary Scagell, whose keen understanding of a meticulously conceptualised surveillance solution was instrumental in drafting a comprehensive tender document. Several prospective installers were evaluated in terms of their technical knowledge and pricing structures before MeyCom was awarded the security tender. MeyCom, an ISO 9001-accredited security contractor specialising in the installation, management and servicing of turnkey projects, was advised at tender stage that Axis network cameras had already been identified as the product of choice. "A project of this size and scale demands an established, proven brand," remarks Nigel.

Result

On a daily basis, the control room is responsible for dispatching patrollers to investigate people loitering nearby the ATMs, harassing shoppers or generally displaying suspicious behaviour. They are also able to monitor parking lot activity; this enables security personnel to record incidents that have resulted in damage to property or vehicles. The Axis network cameras are able to maintain a presence even when security personnel are not physically present.

Discreet but effective

Superior resolution of the Axis network cameras helps security personnel to identify potential risks and respond accordingly

Cape quarter's design, best described as ‘Cape Malay architecture', remains true to the original inhabitants of this area, paying homage to Cape Town's colourful heritage, even going so far as to preserve the early authentic architecture and incorporate it into the development. This type of attention to detail and careful planning is maintained in the selection of a surveillance solution. In a retail application, network cameras not only have to be able to offer a quality, high resolution image but also ensure that these images are available from an inconspicuous, discreet source. The AXIS P3301 Fixed Dome Network Camera was chosen for these attributes. With its tamper-resistant, unobtrusive and compact design, AXIS P3301 is ideal for surveillance in exposed indoor environments.

AXIS M3011 Fixed Dome Network Camera, specifically designed for recessed mounting in drop ceilings, is another perfect fit for this installation. Measuring a scant 9 centimetres in diameter and with barely 3 centimetres sticking out of the ceiling, AXIS M3011 is still capable of high performance surveillance. AXIS P3343-VE Fixed Dome Network Camera, used to secure the perimeter of the shopping centre, offers day/night functionality and a weather-proof casing suitable for all weather conditions, including those ‘four seasons in one day' characteristic of Cape Town.

Covering all of the bases

The surveillance solution is configured in such a way that all entry/exit points and internal walkways throughout the centre, as well as stairwells between the levels, are monitored, allowing authorised personnel to track the progression of suspicious individuals as they make their way through the building. All of the network cameras, including the 32 analogue cameras from the adjacent Cape Quarter development, are monitored by Orbis Security Solutions using Visec Platinum Plus Management Software.

The superior resolution of the Axis network cameras ensures that security personnel are able to identify potential risks and respond accordingly. "The initial expense of a first-class surveillance solution is soon deemed inconsequential as the benefits of the equipment become evident and the investment begins to pay-off in terms of thwarting crimes and keeping shoppers safe," says Nigel.

AXIS M3011 Fixed Dome Network Camera is specifically designed for recessed mounting in drop ceilings

A complete solution

With the Soccer World Cup, South African host cities were gearing up for an unprecedented influx of tourists. Activities that give visitors a chance to experience the uniqueness of the country are destined to draw large crowds. Cape Quarter, with its convenient offering of high fashion, exclusive furniture, fine dining and distinctive arts and curios, was certainly one of these destinations. Axis network cameras, ultra-discreet, but infinitely efficient, ensure that tranquillity is the lasting impression created by this superb development.

Network challenges

The challenge of fully integrating various panic alarms with the Axis network cameras and ensuring that the network is suitably configured for streaming images to the control room and local NVRs was addressed via significant cooperation between Axis Communications, MeyCom, Visec and Diversified Security Engineering. Gary Scagell, CEO of Visec International, together with several of Visec's development engineers, Jacques Blommaert, MeyCom's Senior Project Manager and Diversified Security Engineering's Nigel Versfeld, faced the daunting task of presenting an end-to-end solution that could showcase the superb performance of both the network cameras and the software.

"The success of this particular installation was largely due to the tremendous input from all of the parties involved and the superior quality of the products utilised," remarks Andrew Briton, Director of MeyCom.