US-based technology and security systems provider Diebold has partnered with Panama Canal Authority (PCA) to develop and deploy a new 20-screen, high-resolution video wall for the canal’s marine traffic control centre.
Measuring approximately 300ft, the video wall will feature 67in monitors that display feeds from 24 cameras located at critical points of Panama Canal, including three main locks, two lakes, primary waterways and two staging areas.
The video wall allows marine traffic controllers to view multiple surveillance camera feeds at once.
The wall also allows controllers to view the ship’s telemetry and global positioning system (GPS) signals.
Diebold’s system has the capability to accommodate 40 camera views, which could be installed as part of the canal expansion in future.
Located in between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, the Panama Canal uses a locking mechanism to raise ships from sea level to the level of Gatun Lake, allowing them to sail the through the channel.
More than 3,000 container ships, cruise ships, tankers, submarines and other vessels cross the canal every year, so it is imperative that traffic controllers can provide precise instructions to ensure their safety.
With the Diebold’s video wall, Panama Canal’s marine traffic control centre operators can decide the location, direction, speed and manoeuvres required for a vessel to enter, navigate and exit the canal.
Diebold Latin America division senior vice-president and managing director Octavio Marquez said Diebold has a legacy of helping to secure high-profile locations.
