The project spanned more than 18 months, 10 different RFPs and three integrators —Chubb Canada, ADT Advanced Integration and Southwest Surveillance Systems Canada.

The CBSA chose IndigoVision’s IP video system as its technology platform. Five hundred IndigoVision HD cameras were installed and integrated with the CBSA’s existing 500 analogue cameras, which were connected to the network using IndigoVision’s 9000 series transmitter modules. IndigoVision is calling the project the largest HD IP surveillance system of its kind in North America.

“I think there probably will be a migration path to 100 per cent IP. However, an awful lot of the cameras they purchased over the years are very, very good analogue cameras,” said Bill McQuade, senior vice-president, North America, IndigoVision. “It certainly wouldn’t make sense to throw them in the rubbish bin. Fifty per cent of the cameras are IP and the other 50 per cent are existing cameras that they purchased several years ago.”

Spokesperson for the CBSA Hannah Mahoney said in an email that “the newer technology allows us to have enhanced coverage of our areas. The CBSA places a high priority in its enforcement efforts, using proven indicators, advance information, innovative technology, information sharing and officer training to protect our borders. At the same time, the agency always looks at new ways to enhance its detection capabilities.”

Each border crossing has a self-contained surveillance system with video being recorded on standalone NVRs and monitored on workstations with IndigoVision Control Center security management software. According to IndigoVision, border points will be able to share live and recorded video on a regional or national basis via a distributed architecture should they require it.