When cameras were first introduced to the Parking Guidance market, many believed they would immediately enhance parking facility safety and security and provide better control to lot managers and employees with open space detection and License Plate Recognition (LPR).
Unfortunately, expectations differed from reality especially when it came to detection.
Limits of yesterday’s camera-based technology
Detection often depended on LPR. If no license plate was detected – like if the plate was dirty or missing – the system ignored it. Some systems developed without LPR used comparison images, and often produced false results.
Low accuracy rates soiled the reputation of early camera-based parking guidance systems, and for good reason. When the camera can’t detect the vehicle correctly, the whole systems fails. In addition, when these systems did work, they identified the vehicle but not the driver – important for tracking and car location functionalities.
Times have changed. After analyzing those weak spots for years, ParkHelp has developed a technology that is able to fulfill all the market’s needs.
ParkHelp provides game-changing camera-technology
Our new technology is changing the industry. Equipped with incredible detection software, a powerful on-board processor, two 5.1 Megapixel cameras and Bluetooth functionality, our new Camera-based Parking Sensor finally fulfills all the wishes others just keep promising.
8 features to check before choosing a Camera-based system
Whether you chose a ParkHelp system or not, there are questions you should ask yourself and your provider to make sure that you will get the system you really need.
1. Check detection accuracy
Detection accuracy is keenly important. Current guidance system standards say accuracy lower than 98% is unacceptable. ParkHelp’s camera sensor software is based on 99.15% reliable LPR technology, which is the only one used and accepted at facilities like the Barcelona Airport. Our detection does not depend on LPR alone, so even when the license plate is not readable the system will still detect the vehicle.
2. Confirm detection time
Most systems rely on an external server for processing data – slowing down the process and wasting customer time. ParkHelp’s unit comes with a powerful CPU that allows for rapid and effective on-board processing.
3. Check Installation and setup time
Most camera sensors require laborious installation. The complete ParkHelp system, including the camera sensor, has been designed to be installed and working in the minimum amount of time. The camera setup can be done remotely, which saves time and costs.
4. Decide what find-your-car functions you need
Lost cars are a thing of the past. Older systems forced drivers to remember where they parked their cars or their license plate number – which is easier said than done. But because ParkHelp’s system is Bluetooth enabled, it can interact directly with the drivers’ smartphones or utilize their license plate number and tell them exactly where their car is. It’s the ultimate customer experience booster.
5. Check how secure it is
Security is more important than ever, and camera sensors can increase peace of mind in a parking structure. The camera allows for integration with video Management Software like Milestone® that includes facial recognition and other functions. ParkHelp sensors are also equipped with an internal battery that will continue recording for up to an addition hour if the power is cut.
6. Decide what integrations you need
Unlike many Parking Guidance Systems, ParkHelp can be integrated with all ParkHelp systems and most third-party systems utilizing an open API.
7. Compare prices and costs
It’s common sense to choose a cheaper option if the benefits are the same However, not all parking systems are the built the same. Be sure to ask: What exactly does the cost include? Who takes care of the installation? Are all components included or shall I expect high extra costs? How often will this system need to be updated?
8. Finally, ask yourself if you really need a camera-based system
Camera-systems add value to a parking garage. But we have found some who do not require advanced security features or driver identification for their facilities but are looking for a camera-based system because they think it’s the only thing out there. ParkHelp offers a wide range of alternate solutions. If you do not need it, we are not going to push it on you.
Interested in learning more about our Camera-based System?
