Enhanced Security with Casino Surveillance Cameras at Wettpunkt Casino

Client

Prevention. Detection. Suppression.

Where one can bet, one can also bluff — but not when it comes to security. Gaps in this system are unacceptable; that is what they believe at the well-known Austrian bookmaking and gambling establishment Wettpunkt Casino. Since 2004, the establishment has been collaborating with engineer Gregor Geischleger from the IGG Handel & Service Company on continuously perfecting the security system. And the lead role in this process is played by the AxxonSoft video surveillance system.

Challenges

Security at Casinos: A Necessity

In addition to being able to reduce occurrences of fraud and vandalism, the Austrian enterprise also had the need to protect its personnel. Robberies and break-ins most often occurred at small branches with a low customer flow. Investigation of such crimes at establishments not equipped with casino surveillance cameras systems was practically hopeless. That is why the client strove to minimize risks associated with malicious offences (vandalism, robbery, etc.) using technical security systems. Prevention, detection, and suppression were the main tasks the system needed to handle. That means that the installation of an all-encompassing video surveillance system should deter the majority of potential offenders and allow uninterrupted real-time monitoring, as well as the further processing and use of data (for instance, in collaboration with law enforcement and judicial agencies).

Solution

A Centralized Casino Surveillance Room

When the demands were analyzed, it was determined that a centrally controlled video surveillance system would be the best choice for preventing vandalism, fraud, and other crimes. Further, such a system would be very useful for monitoring and subsequent investigation of offences. And the possibility of remote video monitoring would allow security personnel to immediately get access to the branch’s video server in case of an emergency, which would make it possible to react to security threats instantly. In addition, expenses for maintaining security and technical support services can be minimized if they only need to go out on site when it is truly necessary.

Discreet yet Effective Cameras in Casinos — Strengthening Security Measures without Detriment to Clients and Personnel

When installing the system, the primary aim was to provide personnel and administrators with a sense of security without creating any inconvenience for the clients or staff. Thus, it was necessary to install a video surveillance system that would not be too noticeable, but would be all-encompassing and effective from a security standpoint, making it possible to promptly recognize and deter potential offences. It was also necessary to ensure that the equipment would work in unfavorable lighting conditions.

The Updated Casino Surveillance System

A decision in favor of the AxxonSoft Casino security solution was made after the previous version of the software was already in use at some branches. Even then, according to Gregor Geischleger, the system was notable for its combination of maximal ease of control and high image quality. This convinced the client to use the later versions of AxxonSoft products as well. Another point supporting the product was its flexibility, which is the result of a multitude of settings that, however, do not complicate working with the system.

An update to the version of Axxon One VMS now used was made because of its improved image quality, improved interface, and the broader functionality of the new product. The decisive factor for choosing this system was the capability to connect to several video servers from one workstation simultaneously, a feature that the previous version did not have, and thanks to which the current version of Axxon One VMS software provides high productivity without loss of image quality. Another important reason was the availability of technical support directly from Austria, which many other firms offering system solutions either do not have or have not sufficiently developed. And the final convincing argument was the system’s price.

“In the end, the client was convinced of the many merits of AxxonSoft’s software product: fast access to data, ease of use, simple management of passwords and user rights, and also the possibility of expanding the system,”

— says Gregor Geischleger.

At present, there are 60 servers working on the basis of Axxon One VMS with 16 or 32 video cameras at various branches of Wettpunkt Casino. There are about 700 cameras connected to the system in total. Furthermore, during the installation and expansion of the system, a central control station was created to collect information from all connected branches.

Integration — The Simplicity of Installation and Use

The technicians who participated in the installation say that this integrated system was fairly simple to deploy without constantly consulting an installation manual or reference guide. Further it became clear that operators can be trained to work with this multifunctional yet simple-to-use system quickly and without any difficulties. Users note with satisfaction that, in case of alarm, they can access footage or export high-quality video data in just a few steps. In addition, remote surveillance provides high image quality with virtually no lag time, while working through a remote connection to the system remains just as problem-free as on the video server. The experience of using the integrated IP cameras also received a positive evaluation. With megapixel resolution, they are very useful at gambling establishments.

Results and Benefits

Casino Security Cameras System: A Constant Expansion

The project, begun in 2004, is being expanded to all branches of Wettpunkt Casino. Individual systems are also being expanded through an increase in the number of casino surveillance cameras connected. Through the installation of additional IP cameras, the sites that are important from a security standpoint are included in the system.