IndigoVision IP Video Delivers High-Level Security for ‘The Gherkin’

  • Sep 29, 2011

IndigoVision’s integrated IP Video surveillance system has been deployed as part of a major security upgrade at one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers. 30 St Mary Axe, widely known as ‘The Gherkin’ is situated on the former site of The Baltic Exchange and at 180m tall, is the third tallest building in the City of London. ‘The Gherkin’ is a multi-tenanted commercial office block occupied by a number of the world’s best known insurance and legal businesses.

The distributed and open architecture of IndigoVision’s IP Video system provides the ideal installation platform for the migration of legacy CCTV and the seamless integration with other security systems. Using this advanced capability, Universal Security Systems Ltd, IndigoVision’s Authorised Partner, implemented a fully integrated surveillance, access control and intercom solution.

The new surveillance system replaced old analog CCTV matrix and DVR equipment with a fully digital network solution using an IP-based distributed virtual matrix. This allows any component in the system to be located at any point on the IP network, delivering a scalable and flexible solution that was a key factor in IndigoVision being chosen for the project. All of the original analog fixed and PTZ cameras were reused and the migration was achieved without any disruption to building operations, an important consideration for a building of this type with diverse activity occurring 24/7.

IndigoVision’s ability to stream high-quality, fully synchronized audio across the network alongside the video, allowed Universal Security Systems to develop an innovative video intercom system, recording audio from existing intercom equipment with the appropriate video from nearby cameras.

The security of the video archive, through the use of a resilient and redundant recording solution, was another important factor for the building owners choosing IndigoVision. Video is recorded on 6 standalone IndigoVision Network Video Recorders (NVRs), with a 7th used as a failover backup. Should any NVR fail or be taken off-line for maintenance, the backup automatically starts recording in its place. The standalone NVRs have a Linux-based software engine and a fault tolerant design with dual redundant network and power supply connections.

Two ‘Control Center’ workstations are used in the Security Office to monitor live video and analyze recorded footage from all of the cameras. ‘Control Center’ provides advanced analysis tools such as motion thumbnails for fast incident review. Guard tours, sequences and Privacy Zones are all supported, with video being displayed on PC viewing panes or traditional monitors. Operators can view an interactive map of the entire site to quickly locate cameras and alarms.

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.