Cisco reinforces physical security family

Cisco today expanded its physical-security product line with a digital surveillance camera and the introduction of the Cisco Physical Access Manager, an appliance that acts as a central point for managing existing door readers, electronic locks and biometric devices.

The Cisco High Definition 1080P Intelligent IP camera, which can be controlled through a browser-based interface, supports the H.264 standard for video and captures video at 30 frames per second. According to Brian Apgar, Cisco senior director of engineering, the 1080P is an indoor camera that can be used with Cisco Video Surveillance Manager. This manager, offered as either an appliance or software, controls both digital and analog camera equipment.

The Cisco Physical Access Manager (PAM) is part of what Cisco is calling its Electronic Access Control system, its first product for integrated physical security for restricted building and door entry.

PAM is intended to control access to doors in a campus environment that are restricted through required door readers or biometric devices. It also provides a platform for integration into IP-based networks and the Cisco Video Surveillance Manager, so a single application can be established for alerts, alarms and other purposes, Apgar says.

Mercury-capable door readers are among the dozens of electronic-access control devices for doors supported by PAM, he points out.

The Cisco High Definition 1080P camera is expected to be available next month and Cisco PAM, marketed under the Cisco Electronic Access Control name, is expected to be available in June. Pricing has not yet been announced.