Barcelona Metro migrates its security system to an IP video surveillance solution

Barcelona's metropolitan transport has a total of 2.700 Sony IP network cameras installed throughout your transport network, of which more than 700 are box type SNC-EB630.

Barcelona's public transport operator (TMB -Transports Metropolitans) manages one of the most accessible and technologically advanced metro systems in Europe, composed of nine lines and 150 Stations. TMB's local metro and bus lines carry more than 550 millions of citizens, suburban travelers and tourists a year through the Catalan capital and its surroundings, what makes safety and operational efficiency priority aspects.

In recent years, TMB decided to update its analog structure, replace older cameras and expand coverage to create an IP surveillance system for all subway installations. The relationship between TMB and Sony goes back more than 15 Years, when the operator installed his first 150 cameras at several metropolitan bus stations to protect perimeters, parking areas, workshops and offices.

The reliability of the cameras has made them an optimal choice for this recent update, focused on monitoring the tracks of the meters, station walks and other public areas where reliable operation is essential during the 24 hours of the day.

In addition to constant reliability, provide optimal HD image resolution, another key requirement for the project. Support for open protocols, including the ONVIF standard, simplifies integration with other security and surveillance systems.

By standardizing a small number of camera models, TMB benefits, In addition, simplified maintenance and reduced operating costs. Today, TMB has a total of 2.700 Sony IP network cameras installed throughout your transport network, of which more than 700 are box type SNC-EB630.

A custom housing protects them from dust, dirt and sabotage, while allowing for easy cleaning of the front lens window.

The SNC-EB630 delivers optimal Full HD image quality with wide dynamic range, even in dark or dimly lit environments, where other cameras barely get a clear view. Built-in image stabilization ensures sharp images, even if she's subjected to jolts, because of the mechanical vibration coming from nearby trains.

It also has advantages in seasons where adverse conditions of fluorescent lighting, which is reflected intensely on the surfaces of the platform, make it difficult to identify individuals. To do this, Sony's View-DR technology improves the camera's dynamic range to suit the wide variety of light levels in a single scene.

The wide presence of the camera has a very effective visual deterrent effect and is a useful tool for identifying passengers or staff, and resolve the incidents in which they are involved.
Image quality and sensitivity are critically important in monitoring passenger movement at overcrowded stations or directing station staff and first aid personnel to assist passengers in need of assistance in the event of an accident or physical injury.

"We have evolved from a fully decentralized surveillance system that started in our garages and workshops to a fully centralized system, which is based on security control centres responsible for the operation and management of all security cameras. Image quality has improved exponentially in a short space of time. Along with the built-in functions in the cameras themselves, this has resulted in an increase in the safety we offer our passengers", says Victor Ribera, responsible for the telecommunications system in the technology area at Transports Metropolitans in Barcelona.

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