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Boss has eyes everywhere

When Hugo Boss opened its 2000 m² shop in the Champs-Èlysées in Paris the company wanted a surveillance system that would provide security for the staff and premises, remote monitoring of the shop, assistance with remote maintenance, and better quality images than the standard CCTV cameras. An IP video solution using 24 Axis 211 network cameras was the choice.

Security is enhanced by placing some cameras above the payment terminals, where they have a deterrent effect, and built-in motion detection sends images to a remote monitoring company if an intrusion is detected after hours. For layout managers, network access to the cameras means they can take a virtual tour of all their shops from their desktops, to check that all displays are as designed. Store managers can get an instant overview of activity. Images can even be displayed on wireless PDAs and cellphones in sales demonstrations. Lastly, the cameras are used by support personnel when guiding on-site staff through troubleshooting equipment such as workstations and printers.

"Hugo Boss is getting the real value out of IP video," says Roy Alves, managing director of SCS Distribution, exclusive distributors for Africa of Axis products. "IP video is not just an alternative to CCTV. Being able to transmit high quality images over the LAN and the Internet opens up many possibilities, which Hugo Boss is exploiting fully."

The Axis 211 supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which means that power is distributed from the network switches to the cameras over the LAN cables. This reduces installation costs as an electrician does not have to be called in, and makes for quick and flexible deployment. The network equipment runs off an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), so the cameras remain operational even if the mains power is cut.

The Axis 211 was chosen for several reasons in addition to PoE support. It has a vari-focal auto-iris lens, making the same camera suitable for general views or close-ups, in a wide range of lighting conditions. A simple web-based user interface provides many features such as being able to snap still images and easy set-up of motion detection. An open architecture with a published API and free development tools supports customisation and third-party utilities. Finally, of course, looks are important for a Paris fashion house and the design of the 211 fits in well with the store's modern décor.

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