How installers and integrators can benefit from Panomera®

Panomera® multifocal sensor technology has revolutionised the monitoring of large areas and long distances. Not only does it offer end users a high level of security at a comparatively low total cost of ownership, but it also provides attractive value-added opportunities for specialist installers. In the following interview, Christian Linthaler, Sales Director at Dallmeier electronic, explains why now is the right time to become a Panomera® partner.

Mr Linthaler, how can multifocal sensor technology provide competitive advantages for specialist installers?
Multifocal sensor technology makes it possible to cover large areas or long distances with a fraction of the cameras you would otherwise need, without compromising on image quality. Imagine a camera with up to 192 megapixels, a frame rate of 30 fps and as many PTZ cameras as the situation requires, all in a single housing. This results in significantly lower infrastructure requirements and therefore lower total cost of ownership compared to traditional solutions. At the same time, it provides an unprecedented overview of all events in maximum resolution for all areas of the property. For specialist installers, this means that they can offer their end customers an unbeatable combination of security performance and total cost of ownership – with corresponding competitive advantages and revenue potential. 

Many installers shy away from using Panomera® technology because it is often seen as too complicated and complex. Is Panomera® really more difficult than a conventional camera?
This was true of certain aspects of the first models of the technology, available since 2012, such as the manual “calibration” of each sensor. However, the fourth generation, which has been on the market since autumn 2019, offers a number of simplifications in terms of installation, setup and operation. As a result, the systems can now be planned and used almost like a “normal” camera in the end customer’s environment.

How important is good planning?
Planning is particularly important when using Panomera®, as it is essential to cover the entire object space without gaps and with the required minimum resolution density. Here too, we offer installers additional value, for example with the free 3D planning tool “PlanD”. PlanD allows for playful and intuitive but very precise planning of Panomera® and third-party cameras, ideally together with the customer in their environment.

The Panomera® works with eight sensors. Isn't calibration difficult?
The idea of calibrating a camera’s sensors and optimising their settings has put many people off in the past. Here too, the all-clear is given: a free software tool allows “auto-calibration” at the click of a mouse. The lenses are ready for use in a matter of minutes.

 

Can Panomera® only be used with Dallmeier's proprietary software or is the technology open to other management systems?
To use the full range of Panomera® functions, one of the following options is recommended: Dallmeier’s own VMS software SeMSy® Compact or SeMSy® Hemisphere®, the use of Milestone XProtect® or integration with Advancis or Genetec software. Panomera® is fully integrated with all three third party systems. Integration via ONVIF is also available for all other applications.

How complex is the installation of Panomera®?
The Dallmeier development team has paid special attention to installation: the specially developed Mountera® mounting system simplifies installation and maintenance while offering all practical mounting options. Thanks to the patented “Quick-Lock” mounting system, a single technician can easily snap the Panomera® camera into place and fix and adjust the system securely and tension-free – with only one Allen key size.

Mounting options cover every conceivable scenario – from wall or pole mounting, to pendant or upright mounting, to wallboxes for EdgeRecording. It is even possible to “stack” two Panomera® cameras – for example, to combine a 360° Panomera® W8 with a Panomera® S series distance/area camera.

 

Mounting options cover every conceivable scenario – from wall or pole mounting, to pendant or upright mounting, to wallboxes for EdgeRecording. It is even possible to “stack” two Panomera® cameras – for example, to combine a 360° Panomera® W8 with a Panomera® S series distance / area camera.

How can an interested installer become a Panomera® partner? Is extensive training required?
Training is time-consuming and takes up resources that are needed elsewhere. That is why the way to become a Panomera® partner is very simple: After “onboarding” as a Dallmeier partner – e.g. via an online training course – only two days of general Dallmeier technology training and one day of Panomera® training are required. And the new partner is ready to go. Or they can take the “shortcut” and start immediately with a specific project: Here we are happy to help and put together a customised support package. In this way, nothing can go wrong with “training on the job”.