Nursery Technology

With the widespread adoption of Wireless technology (WiFi) there are numerous peripherals that can be combined to make a flexible security systems. For example take a wireless router (no need to put it on the web, we are just using the wireless connectivity), a number of IP cameras (these are self powered with built in web servers) and any number of the new low cost tablet devices (Binatone is bringing one out at just over £100).

The low cost tablets all have WiFi connectivity with built in web browsers and can access the web servers in the cameras from anywhere in your building.

So you with each component costing around £100, you can monitor your entry door, office and four rooms for less than £1000 with minimal cabling to be run. As everything is wireless, the only connection required is power.

The cameras have a built-in SD card slot for recording still images and video. These images/videos can be recorded automatically when motion is detected or recording can be activated remotely. Recordings can then be sent via email, so the cameras can handle a passive security monitoring role out of hours, completely unattended. This could have been profoundly useful where we are based in Shropshire, there having been a recent spate of nursery burglaries.

The scope of such a system can be expanded to as large as needed, by using a private IP address range and paswords the security camera network can be kept secure from the outside. Similarly a secure gateway can be provided via DSL or other Broadband internet connection to offer remote monitoring access.

Looking for a way to enable secure access to a nursery setting fingerprint scanning (biometric)is an ideal solution.

The BioCAV 1000 is a solidly built module that can fitted to any existing interior door. The unit has a capacity for up to 1000 prints. It works by scanning the fingerprint and then using an algorithm to convert the scan to a number.

The unit takes less than an hour to fit using commonly available tools. Training for users is a simple 30 second process. It is powered by 4 AA batteries and you will want to invest in a couple of sets of rechargeables, especially if you have a busy setting.

The unit is very accurate in terms of recognition and always errs on the side of giving false negatives which means you won't get unwanted access. Care needs to be to taken when installing to make sure that the lock mechanism has free and straight motion.

Overall though with a UK street price at £250 the BioCAV offers good value and is an ideal way of adding both security and parental convenience to your setting.

Nurseries today have to use many types of technology on a daily basis in many different ways.

Firstly they need to use technology in the office environment to keep a track of their client records, run payroll and invoicing, deal with e-mail correspondence and more.

Secondly, by their remit of providing a sound early years education, there needs to be some provision of technology actually in the setting for the children to have access to.

Finally there is the need for ancillary technology based equipment such as biometric access systems (door locks and such), CCTV and other video monitoring and recording equipment.

Through this Blog I hope to bring you ideas, products, projects and knowledge. I will try and make your life easier by doing the research for you, so watch this space.