Eyes on Target 24/7 with Remote Cameras

Ensuring that valuable infrastructure stays fully operational by monitoring it remotely, round the clock with little or no maintenance required, is fast becoming a desirable proposition for utility companies, local authorities and other organisations where budgets are under pressure.

A specialist in the development and installation of environmental monitoring hardware, as well as integrated data control systems, Meteor Communications has seen a significant uptake of its GPRS cameras during 2015.

Meteor’s MCE-Nexus GPRS weather-proof camera has proven that reliable, high quality images can be obtained in a cost effective manner from remote locations and isolated infrastructure. During 2015 alone, more than 120 fully self-sufficient solar powered and battery-operated cameras have been installed on behalf of the Environment Agency (EA), local councils and water authorities across the UK. Cameras are being used to monitor the Rhondda valley flood defence project in Wales, plus a number of other high flood risk areas, including Canvey Island in Essex and stretches of the River Thames in West London and Berkshire.

Meteor’s remote cameras can be deployed on site in as little as 30 minutes, so there’s no need for any civil engineering works. Images provided mean customers are alerted quickly to changing conditions and crucially, regular inspection visits are not required, saving time and money. Cameras can be incorporated into a fully integrated monitoring system of water level sensors, rain gauges and overflow monitors, which can be accessed online, in real time, through Meteor’s secure data centre.

Matt Dibbs, Managing Director of Meteor Communications, said:

“Limited resource, for flood defence in particular, has demanded an innovative yet cost-effective means of monitoring infrastructure. Solutions requiring mains power are expensive to install and maintain and are also susceptible to damage. The beauty of Meteor’s Nexus camera is its low power consumption, ease of operation, robustness and value for money. Our solar powered units deliver high quality, real time images, even in the most exposed areas and conditions.”