Wearables

Viktor Svärm

Wayne Davis

Body worn cameras: expanding the possibilities of security and surveillance

Viktor Svärm and Wayne Davis are sales engineers working to bring the latest solutions to market. Here they explain the purpose and benefits of Axis’ new body worn cameras.

You have been involved with Axis’ body worn camera solution from its inception through to launch and beyond. Can you explain its use and benefits? VS: Axis body worn cameras offer a robust and lightweight security solution which has been designed for use by law enforcement and private security teams. These cameras represent the next generation of physical security, providing flexible surveillance on-the-move, often in challenging situations, and meeting Axis’ usual high standards when it comes to quality, ease of use, design and usability.

What makes Axis’s solution stand out in the market, from a technical perspective? VS: The use of open platforms and dedicated APIs mean that integration with multiple video management systems (VMS) as well as evidence management systems (EMS) is quick and simple. Open system architecture also facilitates simple integration with a broad range of third party systems, which promotes collaboration with Axis’ partners to work on future enhancements to the technology or new ways in which it can be used and developed. The inclusion of a three year warranty is a major plus point for our customers as it demonstrates our confidence in the product and gives them extra peace of mind.

Were there any challenges that had to be overcome in developing this solution? WD: Obvious challenges relate to finding the optimum combination of size, weight, the need for robustness and maximizing battery life. To get all these elements right, our research and design team consulted with customers to gauge their requirements. This resulted in the development of multiple product prototypes and a number of early-stage pilot projects. An holistic view was taken, factoring in a range of requirements from initial video capture in the field, right through to the presentation of evidence in the courtroom, where the authenticity and integrity of the video evidence is absolutely critical.

How can body worn cameras be used in conjunction with existing security systems, and what additional value to they bring to a user or company? WD: The body worn solutions adds a new layer to our portfolio, covering the wearable market. The first person perspective gained from a body worn camera can complement a fixed camera solution, capturing real-time evidence of a situation at the point at which it occurs.