Albany State University – Axis IP Campus CCTV Case Study

Late in 2008, Albany State University began working with Blackboard and CooperCraft Communications on a campus wide CCTV system. Blackboard, a nationwide education software company, had a relationship with Albany State but needed a local integration company to team with in order to have a successful project. Through referrals from clients of CooperCraft, Blackboard contacted CooperCraft and began a relationship that resulted in a teaming agreement between the two companies.

ASU’s goal was to provide a more secure campus for students, faculty, staff, and visitors through the installation of a campus wide CCTV system. Several options were discussed and an Axis IP CCTV system was decided on as the best solution for Albany State’s current and future needs due to its reputation as a leader in IP cameras, clarity of video, and performance at similar sites.

CooperCraft began the process of planning the project through numerous walkthroughs with Blackboard and ASU staff and in house design meetings. Cameras were located throughout the campus and presented a challenge obtaining accessibility and providing vandal protection. Through quality field engineering and a dedicated team of hard working technicians, CooperCraft successfully installed 31 Axis 233D PTZ cameras, 2 Axis 216FDV fixed dome cameras, and 2 Axis Q1755 Fixed Day/Night cameras.

The new system allowed the ASU Police Department to effectively survey the campus and provide safety in previously dangerous hidden areas. From the Central Command Center, ASU officers are able to spot potentially criminal situations and quickly dispatch officers to the site while maintaining observation. The new system also provides more evidence for conviction of criminals and the ability to detect any criminal element attempting to move into the ASU campus.

Through this project and previous service work, CooperCraft has been able to build a strong relationship with Albany State University. ASU staff was very pleased with the work completed by CooperCraft and the college is currently looking at access and interior camera projects for Blackboard and CooperCraft to begin in 2010. A letter of referral from Virginia Stewart at Albany State is included.