VistaScape Security Systems announced today that the Port of Wilmington, Del. has deployed VistaScape's SiteIQ software to automate surveillance, enforce port security policy, and increase the effectiveness of its security staff in responding to and preventing violations. The selection of SiteIQ further extends VistaScape's market leadership in the maritime sector for software-based intelligent surveillance systems.
SiteIQ is part of an overall security upgrade for the Port funded through $1.7 million in grants from the Transportation Security Administration and the Office of Domestic Preparedness. Advantech, Inc. of Dover, Del. is the security integrator for the Port. It partnered with Honeywell to provide and install the integrated video surveillance, access control, and digital video storage solutions.
"The Port of Wilmington is not just satisfied with reaching compliance with security regulations, we want to be a leader and model for other ports around the country," said Randy Horne, Director, Engineering and Maintenance, Port of Wilmington. "This solution will serve as a force multiplier, automatically detecting problems and increasing the speed of our staff in responding to them."
A full-service deepwater port and marine terminal, the Port handles more than 400 vessels per year with an annual import/export cargo tonnage of 5 million tons. It comprises more than 350 acres, including the largest dock-side cold storage facility in North America.
"The Port of Wilmington has implemented one of the most advanced security systems of any port in the world," said Eric Schaeffer, President, Advantech, Inc. "VistaScape provides the management and alerting console to automate surveillance and enforce policy, while the Honeywell video and access control systems represent the leading edge in sensor technologies."
SiteIQ collects sensor data from surveillance cameras and access control stations around the Port and provides a single three-dimensional map display for viewing current security conditions. Using a simple point-and-click interface, security managers at the Port can define virtual barriers and detection rules in SiteIQ. The solution automates monitoring based upon these criteria. Authorities are notified of potential problems via live video of the event to the command center, audible alarms, and alerts to officers on patrol.
The Honeywell Pro-Watch software suite plays an integral role in securing the port. Originally developed for this exact purpose, Pro-watch has achieved a reputation as one of the industry's leading integrated access and video solutions. Pro-Watch integrates with multiple third-party systems, as well as custom interfaces, making it ideal for port security applications. In addition to Pro-Watch, the Port is using Honeywell Video Fusion DVR technology and other closed-circuit television (CCTV) products.
This integration is one of the first between a major access control platform and intelligent video analysis software, allowing for complete information display and response from a single operator console.
"The Wilmington integration is revolutionary for the port security marketplace," said Jeremy Howard, Honeywell director of Global Accounts for Aviation and Seaports. "It combines two diverse technologies into a single platform, which will allow port security to act quickly and decisively during alerts and emergencies. This product combination supports a very highly informed level of response by a port's security organization."
Founded in 1923, the Port of Wilmington is an important asset for the local and regional economy, generating more than 5,800 jobs and contributing over $18 million in annual tax revenues to State and local government. The Port is owned and operated by the Diamond State Port Corporation, a corporation of the State of Delaware.
Advantech is a systems integration company specializing in solutions to access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, life safety and identification needs. Incorporated in 1990 Advantech serves the Mid-Atlantic region of the US. As a complete solutions provider Advantech provides design, installation, service and on-going Client support. Specialties include IT/Connectivity, Design and Drafting, Project Management, Remote Management, Technology Integration to include third party integration, and Systems Specialists. Recent awards include the Department of Transportation's 2004 "Outstanding Technology Project of the Year" and Honeywell Integrated Systems 2004 "Mid-Atlantic Dealer of the Year."
VistaScape Security Systems develops automated wide-area surveillance solutions to protect commercial sites, government facilities, and other at-risk infrastructure. VistaScape's SiteIQ(TM) software combines intelligent video surveillance and multi-sensor analysis together with an intuitive map-based graphical interface. SiteIQ delivers unparalleled situational awareness, enabling security professionals to focus on prevention, not reaction. Based in Atlanta, VistaScape is recognized by Red Herring as one of the "Top 100 Private Firms Driving the Future of Technology" and among Fast Company's list of the 101 top ideas, trends and people that will change the way we work and live in 2005. More information about VistaScape is online at www.vistascape.com.
