The right video security camera can make the difference of merely having recorded images to having images that reliably deliver quality and insight when needed the most. And when image quality meets exceptional reliability the right camera also delivers the most value in any project. Police in the Belgian city of Lokeren can now respond more effectively to criminal incidents – thanks to an upgraded video surveillance solution featuring 120 Sony security cameras including the rugged SNC-VM772R 4K minidome camera.

Today’s Cities Face Greater Awareness Challenges
Whether requiring cameras to monitor and help regulate traffic, assist in city and public venue surveillance or help gather information for decision making, city departments, emergency and law enforcement agencies require clear and reliable footage and data. Modern video security solutions meet these challenges to provide the best possible image 24/7 and they rely on high resolution cameras with outstanding outdoor performance.
Out of the Sony portfolio, two camera types are often chosen for safe city applications. Sony’s 640 Series (G6-R) cameras deliver exceptional image quality in any situation. Available in vandal- and weather-proof versions these cameras can deliver clear and reliable footage when it matters the most. The outstanding performance of Sony’s powerful 4K camera SNC-VM772R makes it an excellent choice for tracking and managing of public spaces and venues.

Fighting Crime and Vandalism
Like all urban centers, Lokeren faces the challenges of crime, vandalism and antisocial behavior in its streets, public buildings and open areas. Until recently, the municipal police force relied on analog security cameras to assist with detecting and responding promptly to incidents. However, these cameras’ limited resolution and image quality often prevented efforts to prosecute individuals as they could not be successfully identified.
In response to requests from citizens to maximize their safety, Lokeren police chiefs and city politicians pledged to upgrade their video surveillance capabilities. In particular, the urgent need was identified to improve the accurate recognition of suspects caught on camera – an even greater challenge at night or on dull, poorly-lit days.

Move to 4K and Low-Light Performance
Security specialists DS-Consulting therefore recommended upgrading Lokeren’s video security to a combination of Full HD and 4K network surveillance cameras. A competitive comparison by DS-Consulting saw Sony’s outdoor minidome and fixed box-type cameras compare favorably with other brands.
“There was only one choice when we compared the image quality of Sony’s security cameras against other market-leading brands” states Emiel De Smet of security specialist DS-Consulting. “They offer so much more detail and clarity – and that makes all the difference in critical surveillance applications.”
In particular, the rugged SNC-VM772R 4K mini­dome camera delivered significantly better images in tough low-light conditions. The camera’s large-sized Exmor R CMOS image sensor allows it to capture more light than ordinary sensors. This ­allows it to ‘see’ suspicious activity clearly in conditions of almost complete darkness, where less ­sensitive cameras struggle.

Video Management Integrates 120 Cameras
Installed by Belgian integrator Seris Technology, the complete surveillance solution features a video management platform by Genetec Security Center plus 120 strategically located Sony cameras, providing 24/7 coverage of city center streets as well as public buildings including Lokeren’s police station, central library and city hall. The new cameras give police a clearer picture of criminal activity in the city streets, assisting with the positive identification of suspicious persons even at night and in low light conditions. Round-the-clock video footage is routed via an optical fiber network, where images are monitored in the central dispatch office at police headquarters. Since the cameras’ installation, city police has seen a reduction in crime levels, accompanied by greater peace of mind for residents and visitors.