Glasgow Science Centre has replaced an existing analogue video surveillance system which was unable to provide the features and image resolutions of the latest cameras and to create a safer environment for visitors to its extensive facilities, which include over 400 interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a space zone. The contract was awarded to Scottish Communications Group, who installed the original analogue CCTV system when the venue first opened in 2001.
A total of 68 new Hanwha Techwin Wisenet cameras were installed at the centre, 48 of which have been deployed as replacements for existing analogue cameras, while 20 additional cameras have been installed in new locations to negate any blind spots and give its control room operators greater situational awareness.
Scottish Communications Group took advantage of the advice from Hanwha Techwin Europe’s pre-sales team to ensure that the most suitable Wisenet internal and external cameras were specified for 68 camera locations. As a result, 40 network cameras with built-in IR illumination were selected from the Wisenet Q series to capture sharp 2 and 4-megapxiel images, regardless of lighting conditions. These Bullet and mini-dome cameras feature Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), which produces clear images from areas that present a challenging mix of bright and dark spots. The remaining 28 Bullet, PTZ and mini-dome cameras were selected from the Wisenet HD+ analogue series to deliver superb 2-megapixel HD images over coaxial cables.
Wisenet HD+ cameras minimise the cost and disruption of installing new data cabling as they support the transmission of HD images using standard coax cabling at distances of up to 500m. Images are recorded on either a Pentabrid ‘hybrid’ recorder or a Wisenet NVR, with each of the five devices offering up to 12 terabytes of storage.
“The safety and security of our visitors is always our top priority. We have invested in the latest technology to significantly upgrade the capabilities of our video surveillance infrastructure and provide our security colleagues with a powerful tool which will allow them to respond quickly and effectively to any incidents.” said Roddie Galbraith, Facilities Manager at the centre. “We are very happy with the performance of the new system and are pleased that we could take advantage of the cost-saving benefits of the Wisenet HD+ cameras while improving quality and functionality. We believe we now have a video surveillance system which will be fit for purpose for many years to come.”
