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BP chooses Digital Sprite

BP has selected Dedicated Micro's new Digital Sprite multiplexer together with RAID storage to install in all its new petrol station sites as well as a number of existing sites.

BP as part of its continuing security programme was looking to improve security at its stores and install the latest technology to provide 31-day archiving without the need to use tape.

Peter Robinson, Director, AGE Electrical Services, the approved CCTV installer to BP said: "We began working with BP on this project last year, installing the user-friendly Sprite Lite to upgrade security in a number of existing and new sites. Following on from the success of this trial and the release of the evolved Digital Sprite and new RAID storage, Dedicated Micros was the obvious choice for CCTV in BP petrol stations." AGE carried out the first installation at Whirlwind filling station in Birmingham and has since installed Digital Sprite and RAID at a further 29 sites.

Robinson continued; "We installed the 16-camera Digital Sprites and RAID to increase hard disk capacity and provide a 31-day archive facility, with 24 h digital recording. The installation sequence is very simple causing no disruption to business, which was key for BP.

"Following installation we carried out training on site for operators as part of our installation package - Sprite multiplexers have the added benefit of being extremely easy-to-use on a day-to-day basis, which makes training straightforward and means operators can get up to speed virtually overnight."

BP's technical specification includes a minimum level of cameras both within store and externally. Internally, the specification includes high resolution colour cameras at each till point, one high resolution colour camera covering the main entrance and a level of high resolution colour cameras to cover the shopfloor area layout and ATM rooms.

CCTV cameras not only provide good evidence when investigating crime but also serve to protect staff, particularly when working alone in the shop as they act as a physical deterrent to the professional or opportunist criminal. External camera levels are based on the size of the forecourt and are positioned to cover pumps, entrances and exits.

The new Digital Sprite encryption facility safeguards against the possibility of tampering with digital evidence - a prevalent concern in today's market. By encrypting all recordings at source, Digital Sprite provides secure authentication of images used as evidence.

Charlie Swain, Security Advisor at BP added: "We are in a highly competitive sector and we cannot afford to have customers inconvenienced by lengthy works - or feeling threatened when filling their car up late at night. We pride ourselves on providing customers with a well-lit forecourt, equipped with high-tech security equipment to offer a safe environment and a clear deterrent for criminal activity.

"Sprite provides us with high quality surveillance and the images assist the police when conducting investigations and enable them to apprehend and prosecute the thieves."

For further details contact RGB Technologies on tel: (011) 760 6437 or Visionline on tel: (011) 401 6700.

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