Integration of ANPR with Public Space CCTV

The use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems for public safety and for the prevention and detection of crime has become commonplace. ANPR systems are used in a variety of forms including integrated with Public Space CCTV systems.

Integration into existing CCTV systems provides a cost effective method of deploying ANPR technology. Additional use can be derived from CCTV cameras and the cable infrastructure that is already installed.

CCTV cameras can alternate between surveillance and ANPR functions by using 'preset' controls within the CCTV system. In most CCTV systems it would be necessary to equip cameras used for dual operation with shutter speed control. The interconnection or interface between CCTV systems and ANPR systems is simple and can consist of one video cable for each camera in use with ANPR. The simple interface between the two systems does not compromise existing maintenance arrangements on a CCTV system.

The choice of camera location for ANPR is strategic and will be dependent on a number of local factors. Using outputs from the CCTV system's video matrix switch allows the choice of a number of cameras suitable for ANPR to be selected for use with the ANPR system.

The ANPR system will provide automatic alarms when a captured vehicle registration number matches a numbers held in any of the vehicle target lists on the system. The ANPR system will also record all vehicle registration numbers captured by the system. Vehicle images are also recorded.

A database is available allowing searches on vehicle movement records.