14 Apr 2009
The Brazilian subway system
Alpha-Digi, VIVOTEK's authorized distributor in Brazil, suggested to deploy a full digital surveillance system in all stations

Mission

Since its establishment in early 2000, the Brazilian subway system, which carries an average of 140,000 passengers everyday, has become indispensable to Brazilian citizens. However, the growing number of passengers has brought various security and management problems to the Brazilian subway company. In the past, the company relies on security patrols to maintain security in the stations. This was not only inefficient but labor-intensive. Despite a large number of security guards hired, crimes such as robberies and thefts continue to increase. The company decided to protect its properties as well as customers and staff in a more efficient and cost-effective way. To meet the company's demand, Alpha-Digi, VIVOTEK's authorized distributor in Brazil, suggested them to deploy a full digital surveillance system in all stations.

Solution

The deployment consisted of 53 VIVOTEK IP7151 and 212 IP7131 network cameras in 25 subway stations. Because of their day and night function that can maintain security 24/7, the IP7151s were installed outdoors and on the semi-open platforms with a weather-proof enclosure for protection against rain and dust. The equipped progressive scan CCD sensors, which can provide clear and sharp images of moving objects, put them in perfect position for monitoring the status on the platforms, especially during train arrival and passenger boarding.

The IP7131s were installed in the tunnels and indoor areas such as in the lobbies or at the ticket windows. The super low light performance of the IP7131s makes them extraordinarily ideal for operating in the tunnels. Besides, VIVOTEK's professional-grade 32-CH central management software ST7501 has been installed to maximize the management efficiency and operational convenience. The client/server architecture of ST7501 enables them to easily manage the surveillance system even after further expansion.

Brazil subway station
Brazilian Subway goes digital with VIVOTEK IP surveillance system

Achievements

Spending on station security once accounted for a major share of the Brazilian subway company's revenue, but it was largely reduced after the installation of VIVOTEK's IP surveillance system. The managers also gain full control over the status of each station anywhere, anytime. "We are really impressed by what VIVOTEK's network cameras have done. Crimes in the stations dropped dramatically and our passengers and staff said they felt more secure now. We have also received positive feedback on how the presence of the network cameras have successfully deterred crimes." said Mike Scolari, the station manager.