Corrections_Today_Spring_2025_Vol.87_No.1

infrastructure. These solutions enable the deployment of IP devices over coaxial or even single-pair copper cabling, avoiding the need for costly and disruptive re cabling projects. Ethernet over Coax (EoC) Technology: EoC solu tions can transmit Ethernet data and power over existing coaxial cabling, which is commonly used in analog systems. This approach allows correctional facilities to upgrade their surveillance cameras to IP without the need for new cabling. EoC technologies provide long reach connectivity, often exceeding 6,000 feet, which is crucial for covering large facilities with a minimal num ber of network switches and closets. Ethernet over Single-Pair UTP: Like EoC, Ethernet over single-pair UTP solutions can transform existing telephone lines or single-pair cabling into IP-enabled networks. This is particularly useful for deploying IP phones, intercoms, and access control systems in areas that were traditionally serviced by analog systems. Power over Ethernet (PoE) Solutions: PoE technol ogies allow for both data and power to be transmitted over a single cable. Advanced PoE solutions can de liver power over much longer distances than standard Ethernet, making them ideal for retrofitting existing infrastructure without additional power sources. These solutions support high-powered devices such as IP cameras with pan-tilt-zoom capabilities, which are es sential for comprehensive surveillance in a correctional environment. By utilizing network innovations and existing cabling infrastructure, correctional facilities can achieve several key benefits: Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages is the reduction in capital expenditure. Utilizing existing cabling eliminates the need for extensive infrastructure projects, reducing both materials and labor costs. In some cases, facilities have reported savings in the range of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Minimized Disruption: Because existing cabling can be used, the need for disruptive construction and down time is greatly reduced. This ensures that the facility can maintain its operational integrity and security through out the upgrade process. Faster Deployment: Without the need to lay new cables, the installation of IP devices can proceed much

more quickly. This means that the benefits of enhanced surveillance and communication capabilities can be realized sooner, improving security and operational efficiency. Enhanced Security and Coverage: Leveraging existing cabling solutions can extend the reach of IP devices to areas that were previously difficult or impossible to monitor. This allows for a more comprehensive surveillance system and better overall security coverage.

In some cases, facilities have reported savings in the range of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Overcoming the challenges: A real-world example

Kitsap County Jail, a regional correctional facility in Washington, faced significant challenges in upgrading its aging analog surveillance system. The facility needed a high-quality IP surveillance solution to improve video resolution and coverage but was constrained by the costs and disruption associated with re-cabling. By implementing an innovative Ethernet over Coax (EoC) solution, the facility was able to deploy over 250 new IP cameras using its existing coaxial infrastructure. This approach saved the facility over $1,000,000, reduced deployment time, minimized disruption to operations, and significantly improved the project’s return on investment. The new IP surveillance system provided Kitsap County Jail with enhanced video quality, additional coverage, and the flexibility to add cameras in previ ously inaccessible locations. This project illustrates how correctional facilities can achieve better digital transfor mation outcomes by leveraging existing cabling for IP device deployment. 5 →

Spring 2025 | Corrections Today

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