Recent Projects

Campus Security Camera System Deployment for Higher Education Safety

Verkada Surveillance and Network Infrastructure Upgrade for Enhanced Campus Protection

Q3 2024

Expanding Surveillance Coverage to Improve Campus Safety

This Maryland college sought to strengthen campus security by addressing gaps in surveillance coverage and poor visibility in key outdoor areas. Existing monitoring capabilities left portions of the campus without adequate video coverage, creating security blind spots that limited situational awareness for campus safety personnel. In addition, inadequate lighting conditions made it more difficult to monitor certain locations effectively, particularly during evening hours.

The college also faced infrastructure challenges that complicated the deployment of modern security technologies. Unreliable cellular connectivity and limited network availability in some areas of campus reduced the effectiveness of security systems and made it difficult to extend surveillance coverage to critical locations.

To improve campus safety and create a more secure environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, the college partnered with Data Networks to deploy a comprehensive campus security camera system featuring advanced Verkada surveillance technology, enhanced network connectivity, and optimized camera placement throughout the campus.

Deploying a Comprehensive Campus Security Camera System

Data Networks designed and implemented a modern campus security camera system consisting of 24 Verkada cameras strategically positioned across the college campus. The deployment included a combination of Verkada CH52-E Outdoor Multisensor Cameras, Verkada CB62-E Outdoor Bullet Cameras, and Verkada CD52-E Outdoor Dome Cameras to provide broad coverage across outdoor gathering areas, pathways, building entrances, and other critical locations.

Verkada campus security camera system

To support the new surveillance environment, Data Networks’ subcontractor, Biztec LLC, installed 24 new CAT6 network cable runs, providing both network connectivity and Power over Ethernet (PoE) to each camera location. Existing network switches were configured with dedicated camera VLANs to securely segment surveillance traffic while ensuring reliable communication between devices and the management platform.

A key component of the project involved optimizing camera placement to maximize visibility and eliminate blind spots. Data Networks installed a variety of specialized mounting solutions, including arm mounts, pendant cap mounts, and corner mounts, allowing cameras to be positioned for optimal viewing angles and expanded coverage areas. Where necessary, lifts were utilized for safe installation and conduit was deployed to provide proper cable protection and maintain the aesthetic appearance of campus buildings.

The solution also incorporated PoE++ injectors to provide consistent power delivery and support reliable camera operation across the campus security infrastructure.

Strengthening Long-Term Campus Security Operations

The new campus security camera system significantly improves visibility across the college campus by providing comprehensive outdoor surveillance coverage in areas that previously lacked effective monitoring. The combination of multisensor, bullet, and dome cameras enables campus security personnel to monitor key locations more effectively while improving incident investigation capabilities and overall situational awareness.

Beyond camera deployment, Data Networks provided complete system setup, configuration, testing, and validation to ensure optimal performance across the surveillance environment. Comprehensive administrator training was also delivered to help campus personnel effectively manage, monitor, and utilize the new system.

The upgraded infrastructure not only addresses current security concerns but also establishes a scalable platform capable of supporting future campus safety initiatives. Enhanced network connectivity, dedicated surveillance VLANs, and professionally designed camera placement create a foundation for long-term reliability and operational efficiency.

Upon project completion, Data Networks delivered all necessary documentation, OEM-provided user guides, and conducted a formal project handoff to ensure a smooth transition to ongoing operations. The result is a modern surveillance environment that enhances campus security, improves visibility in critical areas, and helps create a safer experience for the entire campus community.

Tags: Hi-Ed, Hi Ed