The challenge
A regional detention center in Louisiana was relying on an aging surveillance system. The facility needed to replace it with something more secure, more reliable and ready for the future.
Few environments ask more of a security system than a correctional facility. Cameras have to stay online around the clock, video has to be clear enough to act on, and the network behind it all has to hold up across a large site with buildings, yards and long distances between equipment rooms. Hardware has to stand up to heavy use, and the system has to grow as the facility's needs change, without a full replacement every few years.
Our solution
SmartComm designed and deployed a fully integrated IP camera system, together with the network infrastructure to support it.
Fiber optic backbone
We installed fiber optic cabling between the facility's network locations and back to the main equipment room. Fiber carries high-bandwidth video over long distances, and because it doesn't conduct electricity, it's well suited to runs between buildings and outdoor areas. Every strand was fusion spliced, tested and terminated in labeled Corning enclosures.
Copper cabling to every camera
From each network location, structured copper cabling runs to each camera, giving every device a reliable connection at the edge of the network. Every cable was tested before handoff.
High-definition IP cameras
New HD IP cameras cover critical interior and exterior areas of the facility, using durable housings suited to a corrections environment.
Centralized video management
All cameras are managed from one central video platform on a secure network, so staff can view live video, review recordings and manage the system from one place. The platform is built to standard so cameras can be added as the facility's needs change.
The result
The facility now has better situational awareness, faster incident response and more efficient day-to-day operations. Clear, high-definition video from across the site comes together on one platform, on a fiber-backed network built for reliability. Because the system is scalable and standards-based, the facility can expand it over time instead of replacing it.
Planning a surveillance upgrade for a secure facility?
Detention centers, government buildings and other secure sites share a few priorities. Here's what we recommend planning for:
- Build the network first. A fiber backbone between buildings and equipment rooms keeps high-definition video flowing over long distances and between structures.
- Choose hardware for the environment. Cameras and housings in secure or high-traffic areas should be rated for impact and tampering.
- Centralize management. One video platform makes monitoring, investigations and system health checks faster for staff.
- Plan for growth. A standards-based IP system lets you add cameras and locations later without starting over.
- Test and document everything. Tested, labeled cabling makes the system easier to maintain and faster to service.
SmartComm installs video surveillance, fiber and network cabling for government, industrial and commercial facilities across South Louisiana. Call (225) 614-9608 or request a quote to discuss your facility.