Academic Medical Center Deploys IP Cameras and Intercom In-Line with Sustainability Objectives

Major Medical Center Avoids the Trap of Outdated Network Design, Cutting Costs by 50% 

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Summary 

• A large academic medical center needed to deploy IP cameras and IP intercoms to enhance safety in a parking garage but faced high network readiness costs and extended project timelines. 

• The organization used NVT Phybridge network innovations to leverage its existing single-pair UTP and coax-based infrastructures to enable new IP cameras and IP intercoms without a costly and time-consuming network overhaul. 

• The medical center reduced network readiness costs by 50% and completed the deployment in half the expected time, delivering a significantly improved return on investment. 

• NVT Phybridge network innovations enabled the reuse of existing and proven infrastructure, reducing project e-waste and supporting the organization’s long-term sustainability objectives. 

Challenge 

A large academic medical center needed to modernize its aging security system in a high-traffic parking garage. While upgrading to a complete IP solution was the goal, the organization faced significant barriers: 

• Extremely high costs associated with ripping and replacing the existing infrastructure throughout the multi-story parking structure 

• Extended deployment timelines that would disrupt staff and jeopardize security 

• Potential disruption to daily operations 

The organization had previously attempted to upgrade its video system using encoders but experienced regular connectivity failures, with cameras frequently dropping offline. This created unacceptable security risks in critical areas of the parking facility. The medical center required a solution that would ensure reliable performance without high network readiness costs, complex installation requirements, or prolonged deployment times. 

Solution 

Reseller partner Viscom Systems recommended NVT Phybridge Power over Ethernet (PoE) innovations to help the medical center overcome its digital transformation challenges by leveraging the existing, reliable network infrastructure. Viscom Systems had successfully deployed NVT Phybridge solutions on previous IP modernization projects and proposed using the CLEER and PoLRE families of switch innovations. 

The CLEER24-10G switch delivers up to 50 Watts of PoE++ and 10/100 Mbps symmetrical, full-duplex over coax with up to 6,000 ft (1,830 m) reach, 18 times farther than standard switches. PoLRE managed switches deliver Ethernet and PoE over single-pair UTP with up to 1,200 ft (365 m) reach, 4 times farther than standard switches. 

Viscom Systems and NVT Phybridge helped the medical center avoid the costly and unnecessary rip-and-replace process, significantly reducing project risk, complexity, and disruption. The deployment was completed unit-by-unit to maintain operations, and the rack-mounted switches delivered a clean, professional, and easily managed setup for long-term performance. 

NVT Phybridge managed switches feature PowerWise® technology, enabling intelligent power sharing across interconnected switches to ensure continuous uptime. Combined with long-reach capabilities and robust PoE performance, these switches enhance system reliability, strengthen security, and reduce operational complexity. The NVT Phybridge CCMT configuration and management tool simplifies switch configuration, enabling bulk actions and automatic, easy firmware upgrades. These capabilities minimize downtime, streamline operations, and reduce ongoing switch management costs by up to 80%, helping organizations maintain a more resilient, efficient network environment. 

Results 

Viscom Systems used NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to reduce network readiness costs by 50%, drastically improving the project’s ROI. The deployment was completed in just two weeks, significantly minimizing disruption, complexity, and security concerns. The new system supports 55 IP cameras and IP intercoms, improving safety and providing peace of mind with uninterrupted, high-performance security coverage. 

Sustainability 

Sustainability was a key consideration in this project. By reusing its existing single-pair UTP and coax-based infrastructure, the medical center aligned the upgrade with its long-term environmental objectives by reducing material requirements, on-site truck rolls, energy consumption, and electronic waste. 

About NVT Phybridge  

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.