Uncovering the Benefits of License Plate Recognition
Enhance Security with Mobile CCTV Units and LPR
While license plate recognition (LPR) was first invented in 1976, it didn’t become mainstream until the late 1990s as it grew more affordable and user-friendly. Today, security cameras with LPR are standard, helping construction companies, car dealerships, neighborhood associations, parking lot operators, and oil and gas facilities manage access and identify thieves or vandals.
At Cameras Onsite, we offer temporary mobile surveillance solutions to protect your property when neighborhood crime rates spike. Once the threat has passed, we easily remove security equipment.
Here, we’ll explore how license plate recognition technology works and how it benefits companies in Houston, TX.
SEE ALSO: How a Mobile Security Camera System Deters Theft
How Does License Plate Recognition Work?
LPR uses advanced technologies to automatically detect and read license plates. Optical character recognition captures an image of each license plate that drives by, processing the image and identifying the registered owner. This information can be used by law enforcement.
In the past, dirt, stormy weather, and darkness could all make it difficult for LPR software to provide accurate identifications.
Today, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have significantly enhanced LPR’s capabilities, correcting skewed images and sharpening details. It can accurately read license plates, even on stormy days or at night. This information ensures real-time visitor data. The system also uses data analytics to sort through massive data sets and determine if the driver is on a watch list.
How do Watch Lists Work?
These systems integrate with watch lists. For instance, you can develop a watch list that triggers alerts when a vehicle of interest enters the grounds. Depending on your operations, this may include disgruntled past employees, or it can send an alert when any unauthorized vehicle enters.
The software can also cross-reference databases that list vehicles associated with outstanding warrants, stolen cars, burglaries, gang and drug activity, or violent crimes. Should a theft occur, LPRs can be used to provide evidence.
Today, many homeowner’s associations use this technology to increase safety. They're taking a proactive stance by monitoring suspicious behavior before a security event occurs. In many instances, having a visible security camera is enough to stop an intruder from entering.
Can You Use Machine Learning for More Than LPR?
Machine learning can also identify potential threats. It learns by watching, differentiating the usual from the unusual. When unusual behavior is identified, whether loitering, climbing a fence, or driving into restricted areas, it sends a notification to the operator and our Cameras Onsite U.S.-based monitoring team.
The result is swift action and response times. Our professionals can utilize the two-way audio and lighting systems that are part of the mobile unit to speak directly to the person and illuminate the area they’ve been spotted in while contacting law enforcement.
Law enforcement can use this tool to track and locate suspects. For instance, KHOU reported on an LPR camera that was used to charge Charvas Thompson with the murder of Alief ISD teacher Wendy Duan in Houston.
Working with Cameras Onsite
At Cameras Onsite, we deter about 3,200 crimes annually. We do this utilizing temporary mobile CCTV units armed with the latest technology. This technology includes Avigilon security cameras with state-of-the-art AI-enhanced video analytics and LPR. With several patents to our name, no other security company compares.
To learn more about using license plate recognition to deter crime or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Cameras Onsite today.
