Axis network cameras reduce afterhours loitering and vandalism at San Antonio gated community

03 February 2010

The Vineyard Subdivision, a gated community with 800 residents in San Antonio, was experiencing excessive afterhours loitering and vandalism at the three community pools, a high-rate of vehicle break-ins and recurring damage to entry gates caused by unauthorized cars attempting to enter the grounds.

After the services of a roaming security guard proved costly and ineffective, The Vineyard contracted Pro-Vigil to install and remotely monitor an intelligent network video surveillance system. Pro-Vigil Inc. has implemented Axis network cameras at The Vineyard Subdivision to protect property and ensure its residents’ safety.

Following a detailed site survey, Pro-Vigil opted for a complete IP system comprised of AXIS Q1755 Network Cameras, Axis Camera Station software and Pro-Vigil’s I-Vigil software to remotely monitor eight entry and exit points as well as the swimming pool areas and pavilion. To complete installation, Pro-Vigil chose Motorola Canopy Access Points to enable wireless connections to the gates for ease of installation and to avoid excess cable-trenching costs.

Centrally located Pro-Vigil personnel now oversee up to 16 video feeds from each viewing station and can immediately contact police to report suspicious activity. The team also leverages the motion detection capabilities of Axis network cameras to create after-hours security alerts. Additionally, video is stored for two weeks for forensics purposes.

As a result, problems have virtually been eliminated at the pools and there has been no further damage to the community’s gates, saving the association money on unnecessary repair costs. In addition, by reducing the need for security guard service, The Vineyard has already seen a rapid return on its investment.

In conjunction with the network cameras, Pro-Vigil installed public announcement (PA) systems complete with sirens at the pool locations to remotely issue pool closing announcements or warnings from their central surveillance center to loiterers lingering after hours. Sirens are used to deter illegal activity and disperse groups.

Pro-Vigil’s Ben Molloy, vice president of Business Growth and Development, noted, “We selected Axis network cameras because they are cost-effective, reliable and provide high resolution images that are actionable.”

The AXIS Q1755 Network Cameras provide high-definition views of the monitored areas in both day and night. Images are of such high quality that Pro-Vigil can identify automobiles, individuals, license plates and even community-issued parking decals, when necessary.

Based upon the positive results obtained to date, The Vineyard may expand the use of Axis network cameras to the community’s streets.

“Network video is a very cost-effective means to ensure the safety of communities,” said Fredrik Nilsson, general manager of Axis Communications Inc. “HDTV network cameras provide the necessary detail at a reasonable bandwidth using H.264 compression, and can pinpoint problems and provide customers and police with the information they require to reduce crime and maintain safety.”