NCJ Number
203791
Date Published
October 2002
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This report presents results from an evaluative study on In-Car Video Systems from 1999 to 2000 which defined the system and examined why these systems fail.
Abstract
In investigating In-Car Video Systems, this report through a grant by the Florida Department of Transportation, Office of Highway Safety evaluated In-Car Video Systems that were actively being used in Florida. Several systems were selected and tested and covered dash mounted, truck mounted, and cab mounted systems with the recorders evaluated covering half inch VHS, VHS-C and 8mm types of media. Police agencies participating in the evaluation included Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Cape Canaveral District, and the Gainesville Police Department. The evaluation both defined what an In-Car Video System is and determined why so many of the systems fail. A total of nine systems were identified and two of each were purchased. The systems were examined over a 10-month period and monitored for failures. The evaluation was in two parts: installation and initial training and problems encountered. Several systems were identified as performing well with no major problems: Alpha Controls Alpha Cam2000; Eagleye; IPT-Power Cam; Kustom Eyewitness; Mobile Vision System 7; Skaggs Visual Patrol; and Video Systems Plus. With training and experience, complaints of problems diminished. Two systems were identified with major problems, Noble Security SCOUT and On Patrol Video. Suggestions are made in the areas of officers/operators training, instillation/maintenance, and manufacturer open to potential design change. Recommendations are offered when purchasing a system, as well as knowing what the system will consist of.