Aimed primarily at applications within the corporate parking sector, the XCI-NPR transforms an existing badge-reader type access control solution into a seamlessly integrated ANPR system that offers dramatically improved ease-of-use. It includes all of the hardware, software and interfaces that are required to integrate with bespoke or standard access control systems, eliminating the need for additional access control software and time-consuming systems integration effort.

The XCI-NPR integrates a Sony SmartCamera loaded with licence plate recognition software, infra-red illumination source, lens and power supply unit, into a standard IP66-rated CCTV housing from Videotec. Able to recognise number plates from up to 25 European countries, at a range of 3m to 18m, the XCI-NPR includes 10/100 Ethernet and RS232 interfaces, as well as 26-bit and 37-bit Wiegand capabilities that are commonly used in access control systems.

"Moving from swipe card or proximity reader access to an ANPR solution traditionally requires the addition of a specific access control management system in parallel with existing building security," said Matt Swinney, product marketing manager, Visual Communications, Sony ISS. "The XCI-NPR solves this key problem of integrating ANPR with a working access control system, simply and at low cost."

The XCI-NPR is designed for simple set-up, deployment and maintenance. The housing provides easy physical access, while a browser-based utility is supplied for both initial configuration and on-going management. Intended for 24/7 free-run recognition with no external trigger, the module provides wrong plate detection and notification.

The camera can be set up with two alarm functions, allowing it to control external actions such as illuminating a light or raising a barrier. Alternatively these alarms can be used for other purposes, for instance to trigger video recording via an external CCTV camera as part of as an image management system.