Portable CCTV. Fast.
If you have a site that is remote or only temporary, a permanent security solution isn’t always an option.
Maybe you want to monitor a construction site where expensive equipment is left overnight.
Perhaps you need to safeguard a remote facility or pop-up site.
Or you may be organising an outdoor event that requires a security element.
In these scenarios, you need a portable solution. One that doesn’t need to be hard-wired.
And, chances are, you need it fast.
Enter rapid deployment CCTV. The portable, cost-effective surveillance solution.
So, what is it exactly?
Let’s take a closer look.
What is rapid deployment CCTV?
Rapid deployment CCTV (aka portable CCTV or rapid deployment cameras), is a compact, easily deployable system designed to provide temporary or immediate surveillance in diverse environments.
Why is it called rapid? Two reasons:
- It can be assembled in minutes. Each element weighs less than 25kg so can be pieced together by one person.
- A unit can usually be delivered within 24 hours of initial inquiry.
What does a rapid deployment surveillance unit look like?
You could say that the unit looks a bit like a Dalek. With cameras rather than telescopic arms or guns.
It’s made from robust, weatherproof ABS plastic. So, it’s lightweight and ideal for outdoor surveillance.
It comes in three sections.
The bottom section, which houses the four solar panels. The middle section, which contains the battery and the four MotionCams to give 360º coverage. And the top section, which contains the siren.
Standing at 1470mm tall and just 650mm wide, it’s compact. Weighing close to 40kg, it’s also sturdy.
Are rapid deployment cameras anywhere near as good as wired cameras?
That’s a good question.
Actually, the cameras used in the RapiDetect units that CTR deploys are Ajax MotionCams.
So, in essence, they are a wireless outdoor motion detector with a photo camera to verify alarms.
These clever cameras detect intrusion and confirm it with a series of photos. These are sent to the Ajax app in seconds.
This means you can instantly ascertain whether the threat is real.
The cameras are also available with a Photo on Demand (PHoD) feature. So, not only will they take photos when they detect intrusion, but also at the user’s request.
Ajax are market leaders in security for good reason.
The video below demonstrates what happens when the camera detects intrusion. It shows an indoor camera, but the outdoor model works in the same way.
When MotionCam detects movement, it triggers the alarm. It also takes a series of up to 5 photos (depending on the resolution you choose). The photos go to the Ajax app on your smartphone in seconds. So you can tell, almost immediately, if it’s a false alarm or an intruder.
Video courtesy of Ajax
Where is rapid deployment CCTV used?
The versatility of rapid deployment surveillance cameras makes them suitable for a range of applications.
These are among the most popular…
Construction sites
It’s often necessary to monitor construction sites, where expensive – and sometimes dangerous – equipment is left overnight. Portable CCTV is also great for private land or unoccupied properties.
Outdoor events and festivals
Rapid deployment CCTV is ideal to help ensure crowd safety and prevent unauthorised access during events and festivals. It can be quickly assembled to provide reliable perimeter protection.
Temporary installations
Rapid deployment surveillance is ideal for securing temporary facilities. Disaster relief shelters, remote work sites, or pop-up stores, for example.
Transport
To enhance security, portable CCTV can be used for monitoring transport infrastructure. For example on highways and railways, and at airports.
Law enforcement
Police forces and law enforcement agencies sometimes need support in surveillance operations, crime prevention and public safety initiatives.
Fly tipping hotspots
Assembling a surveillance unit in an area renown for fly tipping can help deter offenders and provide evidence if and when instances occur.
What are the key features of rapid deployment CCTV?
Rapid deployment surveillance is fast (pardon the pun) becoming a viable solution for various security needs.
So what is it about these little units that makes them so?
Here’s a quick checklist:
They’re portable – Rapid deployment units are fairly lightweight (approx 40kg in total) and compact. This means they’re easy to assemble and easy to transport to different locations.
They’re deployed… erm… rapidly – We can usually get these bad boys out to you within 24 hours of initial inquiry. And we can get them up and running in minutes once we reach you. So your site can be made secure before you can make us a welcoming brew.
They’re wireless – Rapid deployment cameras use wireless technology, enabling remote access and real-time monitoring.
They take HD images – MotionCams use the best optics, fast processor and advanced software algorithms. Hence, they can produce informative pictures in any weather, day or night.
They’re durable – With their tough ABS plastic body the units are rugged and weatherproof. With an IP55 rating, the Ajax cameras are also well protected against the elements.
How is rapid deployment CCTV monitored?
Once your portable unit is set up, you have two choices:
- Monitor it yourself via smartphone – You will need to install the Ajax app on your smartphone to do this. If a camera detects human movement, you’ll get a visual verification within seconds. From this you will be able to see if the threat is real. The cameras have false alarm filters so that animals and environmental interference won’t trigger them.
- Use a security company to monitor it – Security experts like Qvis have an excellent monitoring system. This will ensure your site is monitored 24/7.
4 major benefits of portable CCTV
Here’s a quick summary of why you might consider a rapid deployment surveillance unit on your site…
1. They’re flexible – Rapid deployment cameras aren’t a permanent fixture. You don’t need to wire them in. This means they’re great for temporary or ad-hoc surveillance needs.
2. They’re cost-effective – Because you don’t need to hard-wire them, you can cut costs. The 30W solar panels will keep the 12V lithium iron phosphate battery ticking along nicely.
3. They’re a visual deterrent – Portable surveillance cameras have a huge impact on reducing crime rates. Their very presence is enough to deter criminal activity.
4. They’re rapid response – Did we mention that we can usually have a unit with you within 24 hours and they can be set up in less time than it takes to make a brew. I think we did. Yes, we definitely did.
