Xellip2’s integration with Milestone VMS affords “seamless control” for end users

Castel’s open protocol Xellip2 IP intercom has been integrated with Milestone’s Xprotect video management system (VMS) to offer “seamless interoperability” between systems.

The ONVIF-compatible Xellip2 features a 1200 x 800 wide-angle HD camera. Sporting a sleek and contemporary design with backlit and flushed nameplates, the Xellip2 has two output relays and two inputs for third party integration. It also features two Ethernet ports (one PoE plus an additional one for serial/bus architecture type and loopback).

Other highlights include echo and noise cancellation, a built-in induction loop for compliance with disability discrimination legislation, audio feedback and call status LEDs, power back-up, a built-in web browser and the ability to record audio and video.

The integration enables all the components of the intercom system – ie camera, microphone, speaker and button – to be monitored and controlled from the Xprotect interface.

The VMS enables users to record video via the event button or via motion detection, record audio, trigger actions via the rule engine (such as the display on a matrix or on Xprotect’s dynamic image wall), send pre-recorded messages to the intercom’s speaker, reassign an alarm and display a flashing icon in the case of detection.

“Interoperability between Castel’s intercom systems and video management systems is now a key demand from our markets, with developments in the latest Xellip2 intercom range offering the perfect answer to this challenge,” explained Atmane Bensghir, business development manager at Castel. “This integration with Milestone’s VMS puts end users firmly in control, enabling them to manage their video entry and security systems using a single interface.”

The easy integration of the Xellip 2, combined with the XProtect access module, enriches the Milestone Smartclient with an integrated intercom client. This module allows the display of a pop-up alert to pinpoint a call made from an intercom.

Milestone Access pop-up notification enables video monitoring at the relevant intercom and two-way audio communication with the intercom directly from the Milestone Smartclient, as well as the opening of a door and association of intercom information with access control data.

*Readers of Risk Xtra who would like to test the Milestone solution can register at www.milestonesys.com and request a partner account for free demonstration licences

Castel’s IP-based intercom solution helps secure London Underground’s maintenance depots

London Underground (LU) has embarked on a major security upgrade at its London maintenance depots and, as part of that process, has procured Castel’s IP intercom solution as part of that process.

Operations at the busy sites include general maintenance and train cleaning while facilities encompass driver rest areas. A large number of employees, suppliers and other visitors pass through LU’s various depots on a daily basis.

Working alongside Honeywell Security, Castel has supplied an IP intercom solution that will help protect the sites from the theft of high-value plant and equipment and the ever-increasing problem of metal and cable theft from the rail network.

The previous intercom system was made up of numerous disparate technologies and obsolete equipment and would have been too expensive to upgrade or repair. As a result, the decision was taken by Transport for London to invest in a totally new IP intercom system, together with a new Honeywell surveillance and access control system.

A dedicated site-wide network was installed for 35 of Castel’s CAP IP PoE (Power over Ethernet) Video Entry Stations which have been used for the gates, vehicle barriers and turnstiles. All calls are networked back to a single central point locally – either a gatehouse or Security Control Room.

However, if a call goes unanswered, the next available operator at another depot will be able to receive and deal with it – another great advantage of using an IP/SIP network solution. This feature helped reassure LU’s management team that no calls would go unanswered, particularly as round-the-clock access to the sites is critical.

Operators using Castel’s Xellip IP Master Stations now have the ability for simultaneous video communication with other colleagues across all sites, thereby enhancing overall security and generally improving working conditions. Castel’s Xellip Server Max has also been used on the project, which allows up to 1,000 SIP extensions and provides plenty of capacity for expanding the system in the future.

The new intercom system will not only prevent unwanted visitors from accessing the sites, some of which cover a very large area and have many entrance and exit points, but will also safeguard staff working there and give them easier access.

Castel’s sales director Stuart Hibberd commented: “This project demonstrates our ability to provide an IP video intercom solution in a very demanding environment where there’s a great deal of traffic and valuable assets.”