The contract worth over £5m to PIPS is for the proven Spike+ cameras, already in use worldwide for applications such as road user charging and enforcement.
Spike+ is an ingenious combination of colour and infrared CCTV cameras, a computer, a mobile phone, digital video recorder and power cables integrated into one smaller, less disruptive and cost effective unit that operates 24 hours a day.
Spike+ has local storage capacity for thousands of vehicle records, including colour overviews. Data is fully encrypted and transmitted across the network, providing a significant reduction in communications costs.
A major advantage of Spike+ that sets it apart from its competitors is its ability to take pre and post event images in addition to contextual images. This technology can be utilised for, but not limited to, highway enforcement such as congestion charging zones, red light offenders and unauthorised use of bus lanes.
Spike+ requires minimal installation and its discreet appearance minimises impact on the environment
PIPS Technology Managing Director, Paul Negus, said "Spike+ is a proven product and was selected after a rigorous Technical Design Evaluation. We have been associated with the supply of ANPR cameras to both TfL and Siemens for some time and are delighted to be working with them on such an important project."
In April 2005, PIPS Technology was awarded the Queen's Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category for its Spike ANPR camera, and has been short listed for the National Transport Awards 2006 that take place later this year.