Fluidmesh and Unilux unveil portable IP command system

May 28, 2008
New system offers quick, mobile surveillance solution

Unilux has tapped on the technical capabilities of Fluidmesh Networks and together, the companies have developed a wireless mesh system that’s gleaning a lot of attention. It’s the Unilux Portable IP Command System and it’s designed for monitoring areas using a completely self-contained wireless mesh video network.

Part of its broad appeal is that it is a mobile system; it can be transported in a vehicle and stored when not in use. It’s ideal for law enforcment and any state or county government looking to monitor large events or areas without commiting to a permanent installation. Another perk of the Portable IP Command System is that it can be set up quickly. Monitoring and recording of the system is done via the UniNet-IPR Recording and Management System which offers the end user full camera control. From the Web interface the user can also monitor the performances of the network in real time through a graphical interface on thier PC or laptop.

The wireless system, explains Fluidmesh V.P. of Sales Cosimo Malesci, is based on the FM2200 dual-radio platform and can operate on the 2.4, 4.9, and 5.1-5.9 GHz range to provide maximum flexibility in the deployment. "Fluidmesh proprietary transmission protocol guarantees a rock solid network and extremely low latency," he adds. "The system supports both omni-directional and directional antennas and a link distance up to 5 miles in line of sight. The wireless mesh network is fully controllable from the head end through a Web interface which strongly reduces deployment time."

According to Wes Zimmerli, vice president of Unilux, "The system consists of four IP cameras, four BlueSky tripod towers that can extend up to 18 feet in the air using guide cables for safety, and four Fluidmesh wireless network radios that act as transmitters, receivers or repeaters automatically. All components are powered by 12-volt batteries for complete versatility." Video is transmitted wirelessly between towers and the Command station, he explains. The mesh system provides automatic connection and full-time monitoring of the network traffic to provide fast and reliable transmission. The Command Unit Master receives video from all four towers simultaneously through typical near-line-of-sight network transmission.

The entire system is contained in four hard cases, four tripod bags and one case for the Command unit. The Command unit may be mounted in a permanent situation on a command or tactical vehicle, or may also be used in a more portable situation through the use of a fifth tripod. Alternative antennas may be purchased for longer range tactical situations. The system is versatile and enables the user to only use one or two towers, or all four at once. There is room to expand by simply purchasing additional towers that automatically connect to the existing system.

Detective Scott Sube of the Montgomery County Police Department in Maryland notes that "The department has recently purchased a UniNet 4001 system. The system will be utilized at hostage/barricade incidents and mass demonstration events to provide on-scene intelligence gathering. Via the remote access capabilities, video from the scene can be viewed over the Internet to any authorized user."

The award-winning Fluidmesh wireless technology and Unilux’ extensive experience in integrating and servicing security systems for law enforcement and military applications led to the creation of this UniNet 4001 Portable IP Command System. It’s an extremely innovative yet simple solution ideal for monitoring temporary events such as hostage situations, strikes, riots, disaster recovery as well as sporting events, graduation ceremonies, concerts and parades.