| Software House’s C•CURE 800 access control is tied to American Dynamics’ Intellex video management system |
Technology provides for safer environment at Pittsburgh Steelers’ football stadium
Software House and American Dynamics, business units of Tyco Fire & Security and leading brands in security management and digital video systems, have been chosen to provide the integrated security solution at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, the 64,350-seat home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. This new security solution will provide increased safety at the facility.
Project officials said the installation effectively provides a higher level of integration than what was previously available at Heinz Field, a cutting-edge facility also home to the University of Pittsburgh Panthers. Under the system, Software House’s C•CURE 800® access control system is tied to American Dynamics’ Intellex® digital video management system to provide automated and seamless monitoring from a 24-hour command centre. C•CURE 800, when integrated with Intellex video surveillance, sends commands to a matrix switcher to conduct a preset video tour of all cameras and alarms. When an alarm is activated, such as when someone forces a door open, the system will pull up pre-recorded video clips that are associated with the specific alarm. This helps officials gather video evidence for any type of possible access control breach.
“One of the biggest challenges for us was taking an up-and-running system and switching over to a new system without any interruption,” said Chris Wetzel, a principal at InterTech Security in Pittsburgh, which installed the products. “Team management didn’t want any of the employees to be inconvenienced by the switchover. We managed to pull it off. The Software House and American Dynamics products proved to be easy to install and integrate.”
Jim Sacco, executive director of stadium management for Heinz Field, has been impressed with the overall operating system. “This has been an effective installation and we are very pleased with the Software House and American Dynamics products,” said Sacco. “The products have exceeded our expectations.”
Forty-eight card readers from Software House are integrated with 36 cameras and four American Dynamics’ Intellex digital video management systems. A total of 350 personnel — ranging from management to maintenance — have access control cards.
The system is tested every game day, even among players. Before each game, systems operators send a series of commands that lock and shut certain doors that guard against players and personnel inadvertently setting off the system.
“We’re pleased that the products were able to be put into place without causing any disruption to stadium operations,” said Paul Piccolomini, general manager of Software House. “That is truly a testament to the fine work of all parties involved and shows that the products are well suited for this venue.”
“This is another prime example of the fine integration of our products. We are confident that stadium officials will be pleased with the results.” added Gene Hammond, Vice President and General Manager of American Dynamics.