Ethernet over power (EoP) for security networks

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is an established technology which has been used for many years for powering devices over network cables. However, “Ethernet over Power (EoP)” is a technology recently introduced by Essex-based ClearView Communications to allow security IP networks to run over mains cables.

ClearView has developed EoP to facilitate communications of IP security systems including CCTV, Access Control, ANPR, Intercoms and Public Address. It is of particular value where it is difficult or expensive to install new signal cables into a building or site, or when security systems need to be provided in short timescales, and where power cables are already in place.

Applications

Douglas Borough Council, the largest local authority in the Isle of Man, took the decision to install closed circuit television (CCTV) at the North Quay in Douglas, the island’s capital and political centre.  Viseum Intelligent Moving Cameras (IMCs) are used by the Council.

Although cabling for mains power had been designed and installed as part of the scheme, the decision to install CCTV cameras to help protect the area was made at a relatively late stage – once all the ducting was in place.

Ethernet over Power (EoP) was used to “digitise” the local electricity infrastructure to support both internet and the sophisticated Intelligent Moving Cameras chosen for the scheme.  Each auto-tracking camera has an IP address which utilises the mains cable network to get pictures and telemetry data back to the main control room in Douglas.  Four Viseum IMCs are individually mounted along the quayside, monitored from a central control room, with digital recording capability at both the camera and the control room.

Council Leader David Christian, Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee, said: “With the regeneration of the North Quay, and the area rapidly becoming a major entertainment and leisure zone for the capital, extending CCTV coverage to the locality was a priority. The Council fully supports the use of CCTV as it helps protect the public, acts as a deterrent to antisocial behavior, and footage can be used in Court to bring criminals to justice. We have also been encouraged to learn that our partners, the police, have indicated they would be in favour of monitoring the CCTV coverage ‘live’ at weekends.  Each intelligent moving camera gave the coverage of about 20 of the older CCTV units.