LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) selected a mix of HDTV-quality pan/tilt/zoom (p/t/z) Axis Communications network cameras to provide video security and live situational awareness along the red carpet at the Academy Awards on March 2.

With the Oscars being such a high-profile event, the LAPD was faced with a number of challenges, including large crowds, variable outdoor lighting conditions and cameras flashes. Another hurdle confronting the department was the fact that red is one of the hardest colors for video to render.

So, the LAPD sought IP cameras that could overcome these issues, capture the best possible images at the forefront and ensure the video was reliably recorded and readily accessible. As part of the department’s requirements, the cameras needed to be HDTV-standard quality =with responsive p/t/z functionality. Other features LAPD looked for were ability to handle a wide dynamic range of lighting, power over Ethernet connectivity and on-camera SD card edge storage.

Camera placement was also critical, and the LAPD combined comprehensive, wide angle overhead views with additional dedicated cameras at high risk zones throughout the area. With this set up, officers on the ground could relay any suspicious activity back to police headquarters so commanders could zoom in and provide instant support.

For the job, the LAPD chose HDTV 1080p AXIS Q6035-E p/t/z dome network cameras and HDTV 720p AXIS P5534-E p/t/z dome network cameras. Each outdoor-ready camera was connected to a wireless mesh node housed inside a custom-built watertight enclosure to protect against inclement weather. The edge-based AXIS Camera Companion software running inside the camera network allowed commanders the ability to select, control and view all cameras wirelessly on 70-inch display monitors at City Hall, as well as access the recorded video.

“With all the TV cameras, world-famous celebrities and expensive wardrobes packed into a single city block, the LAPD had an incredibly tough job,” says Fredrik Nilsson, general manager, Axis Communications. “We’re proud the high quality images and flexible installation opportunities offered by Axis network cameras allowed the LAPD to provide the top-notch security needed for such a high profile event.”

This wasn’t the first time that the police department selected Axis to provide surveillance cameras for high-profile events. For example, LAPD has used the devices to protect professional sports victory games and the final journey of NASA’s space shuttle Endeavour.

Being familiar with the technology gave LAPD confidence that Axis IP cameras and software connected via a wireless mesh network would provide the necessary support to help keep the night glamorous, fun, and incident-free, says Deputy Chief Michael Downing, commanding officer for counter terrorism and special operations bureau for the department.

“What I appreciate most about the Axis camera system and software is that we no longer have to think about the technology or how to use its capability,” he explains. “High quality resolution, video storage that is searchable and retrievable helps us best leverage our resources.”

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