Hungary’s telecommunication services provider Magyar Telekom (akin to AT&T in the U.S.) recently improved security at its shops in Budapest, with the deployment of an IP-based security system. Local system integrator Riel Elektronikai implemented the system consisting of Hikvision cameras and NVRs.
Hungary's telecommunication services provider Magyar Telekom (akin to AT&T in the U.S.) recently improved security at its shops in Budapest, with the deployment of an IP-based security system. Local system integrator Riel Elektronikai implemented the system consisting of Hikvision cameras and NVRs.
Magyar's T-Pont stores throughout Hungary provided a special security challenge, due to its function as a retail outlet, and the nature of the product, IT intensive facilities that required separate security systems. A unique NVR was needed to address the telecom's needs of separating its surveillance system network from its IT network.
Bernat Solyom, Technical PM at Riel chose an embedded NVR to achieve the goal. “There were a number of important requirements, but the NVR's dual Ethernet ports allowed us to utilize two networks – one for T-Pont's video surveillance system and one for its IT needs,” said Solyom. Another challenge presented was storage and live streaming, due to the many cameras connected to the NVR. Solyom also noted the NVR's internal storage capabilities offered cost-savings and increased efficiency.
"This NVR allows management and security staff at Magya's headquarters to access the live video stream and view/save/download all of their Hikvision-integrated T-Pont stores throughout the country,” explained Solyom. “This streaming capability is critical to this particular solution and Magyar needs.”
For monitoring of the retail shops, the integrator chose 2.0-megapixel anti-vandal IR domes and 2.0 megapixel CMOS-based network cameras. The anti-vandal domes were used primarily for overall surveillance at the stores and installed on the main floor, entrances and cashier areas. Since each T-Pont store had multiple cashier locations, the domes were deployed adjacent of the areas to provide coverage of these vulnerable areas. “The anti-vandal domes work well with our chosen NVR unit and the two-megapixel resolution is very important for the cash area,” explained Solyom. “Not only can we can we monitor the actual transaction in great resolution, we can also identify individuals, should any future problems arise.”
Additionally, the domes design provides discreet monitoring, as its white appearance blends in well with the shop's ceilings. The dome is installed in the ceilings making it less visible, and providing an overall friendlier customer shopping experience. Complimenting this dome is the CMOS-based network camera that has a primary objective of deterring shoplifting. Due to these differing goals, this network camera is prominently placed in areas that historically have had high theft issues.
Since most T-Pont stores are located in large Budapest shopping malls, surveillance of back doors becomes extra important. Not only is this the main entrance or exit for employees, it also serves a variety of logistical needs. On top of this, the server room also plays a vital role at these stores. To cover these areas, another 2.0-megapixel anti-vandal dome with low light sensitivity was deployed to cover surveillance for these areas. The camera is capable of functioning in zero-light environments and provides is fit for outdoor or dark room environments.