Introduction

Tyco Integrated Systems have provided a fully integrated, mobile network connected TVSS system for the West Midlands RCC at Quinton.  The initial project arose when TechMAC/ Highways Agency wanted to view the road network on the A49, in the centre of Hereford, so that if the M50 was closed diverted traffic could be monitored.  With multiple schemes in place, previous assessment has suggested a growing need for the connection of feeder (A) roads on to motorway networks, with a controlled and cost effective solution.

In partnership with Tyco, Telent were approached to review different schemes for the project, including; NRTS provision, RS 1000 and Microwave etc. however, the nearest network connection on to the Highways Agency fibre network was around 18miles away, and due to the geography of the area, costs were prohibitive.

The Solution

Tyco Integrated Systems offered their 3G Camera installation, connected directly to Quinton RCC, which has now been implemented onto the network.

The scheme involved the provision of 2 wind-down mast sites in Hereford, with mobile data (3G or GPRS) connection back to the RCC. At the RCC, a mobile gateway server enables the full integration of these cameras into the TVBS using an existing approved HVACI interface.

Picture quality is exceptional at a bandwidth limited to 128 kbps and a frame rate of 5 fps. The mobile data is delivered with a competitive tariff for true unlimited use, giving operators the comfort of knowing that their costs are fixed regardless of how much they view the camera. The actual running costs of this are lower than many ADSL lines, which have provided the scheme with low running costs as well as full integration with the RCC.