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 son tipo box 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 transport more than 550 millions of citizens, suburban travelers and tourists per year in the Catalan capital and its surroundings, which 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 metro facilities. The relationship between TMB and Sony dates back more than 15 years, when the operator installed its 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 option for this recent update, focused on monitoring metro tracks, station platforms and other public areas where reliable operation is essential during 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 ONVIF standard, simplifies integration with other security and surveillance systems.

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

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

The SNC-EB630 offers optimal Full HD image quality with wide dynamic range, even in dark or poorly lit environments, where other cameras barely get a clear view. Integrated image stabilization ensures sharp images, even when subjected to shocks, due to mechanical vibration from nearby trains.

It also has advantages in seasons where the adverse conditions of fluorescent lighting, which is reflected intensely on the surfaces of the platform, make it difficult to identify individuals. For this, Sony's View-DR technology improves the camera's dynamic range to adapt to 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 incidents in which they are involved.
Image quality and sensitivity are critical assets when monitoring passenger movement in crowded 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 completely decentralized surveillance system that started in our garages and workshops to a completely centralized system, which is based on security control centers responsible for the operation and management of all security cameras. Image quality has improved exponentially in a short space of time. Along with the functions built into the cameras themselves, “This has translated into an increase in the security that we offer to our passengers”, says Victor Ribera, responsible for the telecommunications system in the technology area at Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona.