The US Jackson High School in Cleveland, Ohio, has replaced its obsolete analogue video monitoring system with a new digital, high-resolution system based on Mobotix cameras, the free-of-charge MxControlCenter video management system, and bi-directional VoIP communication. This has resulted in considerable savings and now provides previously unattainable image quality both in live streams and with recorded videos.
With features ranging from a high-tech tufted vinyl carpet to special air filtration systems and updated kitchen equipment, the $45 million addition to Jackson High School was designed as a premier, state-of-the-art education facility. So it's little wonder the school's architect determined the new building's technology and security systems also would be cutting edge. The surveillance network ProTech designed and installed at Jackson High School uses a virtual local area network off the school's fibre backbone network. The VLAN supports 62 IP megapixel cameras from Mobotix that are deployed at key locations in the new 150,000-square-foot high school building, plus a bus barn.
"Mobotix is a security solution with video as its core feature," said McKimm, a former law enforcement officer and FBI Academy graduate.
Because Mobotix cameras are IP-based, specific cameras can be addressed by other IP-based devices, such as mobile laptops and digital phones, so that security, police and fire officials can see what's happening in a particular camera location. Further, Mobotix cameras also support two-way audio direct via session initiation protocol. That means first responders can use IP devices to address a specific camera and hear what's going on in a room.
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| The new building's technology and security systems match the cutting-edge architecture |
If appropriate, they could also speak through the camera to a room's occupants. "An IP camera can give first responders the ability to be there, visually and audibly, at the scene of a crisis," McKimm said. "The open system offers convenience for users, as well as increased security. That was proven when the school's bus garage was badly damaged by vandals while ProTech was installing cameras in the new school building."
"We had enormous problems with our old system in trying to clearly recognise students or see particular incidents. The new IP cameras from Mobotix record extremely detailed clips and offer an incredible improvement in image quality", says Doug Winkler, Business Manager at Jackson High School. "The closer we can keep an eye on our school, the better we can protect our students and teaching staff. So far, the reaction we have received from the parents has been very positive. They welcome the fact that we have been able to improve the safety of their children at school."
