The contract, involving the design, supply and installation of 30 cameras, follows the success of similar projects with forces in Norfolk and the Thames Valley.
Siemens evaluated a number of options for sending data from the cameras to Hertfordshire Constabulary’s headquarters, including the use of a microwave network. However, the company settled for leased private Ethernet links which they said offered an affordable yet reliable solution.
To make best use of the available bandwidth on these links, Siemens said their ANPR cameras process the images they capture locally. This means that all they need to send to the control centre is the number plate data and a single still image for each vehicle, an arrangement which needs much less bandwidth than the transmission of live CCTV images for remote processing.
Nigel Eastaugh, ANPR Development Manager at Hertfordshire Constabulary said the force had received a lot of support from Siemens throughout the project.
“We wanted a service that would provide a turnkey solution, from design to installation. The liaison has been excellent throughout – where problems have arisen options have been provided that have made the decision making process easier,” he said.
“We have also been able to discuss and design in solutions for other planned projects that will impact on this development, and with further works planned we have an excellent basis for future infrastructure growth.”
The project, which is being carried out in phases, is expected to be in operation by the end of 2007.
