Facilities

Video Security on the Fast Track
NASCAR & Homestead Miami Speedway Move With Pelco Products
by Soma Balber, Marketing Communications Writer, sbalber@pelco.com

When it comes to the sport of motor racing, the most identifiable name is NASCAR. Because of its wide popularity among a diverse group of people, NASCAR racing has produced 54 years of exhilarating action. From the first race on the beach at Daytona, to last year’s season thriller at Atlanta, the action never stops.

NASCAR has become the ultimate spectator sport and has grown to be a multimillion-dollar international sports franchise. With a cast of amazing technological innovations, unforgettable races, and inspiring heroes, NASCAR racing has become an American institution. And, with Pelco equipment surveying some of NASCAR’s biggest racing facilities including Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Lowe’s Motor Speedway, and Dale Earnhardt Inc. Center, this collaboration has proven to be a winning formula.

Homestead Miami Speedway… A Premier Destination

NASCAR racing made its debut in the Miami area with the grand opening of Homestead Miami Speedway in November of 1995. With 1.5 miles of oval track and 6-degree banking turns, Homestead Miami Speedway is an exciting, modern facility. Just half an hour south of Miami International Airport, this Art Deco-style speedway has been called one of the most beautiful sports facilities in America.

Homestead is one of the few facilities capable of hosting events from three NASCAR divisions as well as Indy and major sports car racing. With internationally acclaimed events such as NASCAR Winston Cup - Pennzoil 400 and Busch Grand National races, the Homestead Miami Speedway events are seen live by more than 300,000 racecar enthusiasts and viewed by millions of fans on television each year.

The Formula for Success

Because of its many popular attractions, Management at Homestead wanted to make sure this 434-acre facility is a safe and entertaining environment. What they had in mind was installing a powerful video security system to monitor crowds and traffic.

With the assistance from Florida Caribbean Marketing (Pelco Representative Firm), and Pro Sound (Installer), Homestead Miami Speedway was on its way to installing a high-tech video security system. "Pelco’s equipment never gives us problems, and rarely, if there is a minor flaw, then we utilize Pelco’s 24-Hour Turn Around on Parts and the 24-Hour Repair & Service programs, and these programs do work," stated Todd Brown, Technician for Pro Sound.

Pro Sound, based in North Miami, and with offices in Las Vegas and Orlando, had the multiple tasks of installing the video security cameras and equipment, as well as installing the audio and the in-house television broadcasting system. "We were hired to run the security cameras, the sound system and the T.V. broadcasting system. With these responsibilities appointed to us, we were ready for the challenge. We can always count on Pelco’s equipment to perform because they are very reliable," added Brown.

Facing The Challenges

Among the obstacles facing Pro Sound as they began this highly-anticipated installation was the issue of where to install the cameras to gain the best possible view. "Certain cameras were needed to be placed in high areas and others in low places, particularly the tracks," added Brown. "We were concerned with the cameras being knocked down."

In addition to where the installation of the cameras would take place , the fact of how to get to their desired location in high places was another challenge. The team at Pro Sound rented a large bucket truck to use for height to install the Esprit camera positioning systems.

Two System 9760 matrix switchers, three Esprit positioning systems, 40 monitors, 40 fixed cameras, fiber optics and coaxial cables were used in this large installation. Since its initial installation in 1995, the security system has been running smoothly. "The goal of Homestead Miami Speedway has been achieved. We are able to monitor the spectators and prevent incidents from happening during NASCAR’s biggest events," stated Brown. Pelco cameras and equipment help provide the capability of being able to monitor the crowd scene and the traffic. In addition to safety for racing fans, the race-car drivers have utilized the security system as well. "To make sure the track is clear, the cameras survey the track so the drivers can practice safely," stated Brown.

Future upgrade of the security system is on the agenda. "We would like to upgrade the security system to include a digital recording system. Switching to digital will eliminate the need for bulky cassettes and significantly reduce system costs in maintenance," said Brown. " Pelco’s Digital Video Recording System is on our list."

Homestead Makes History

For the first time in the 54-year history of NASCAR’s premier series, Homestead Miami Speedway will be hosting the 2002 NASCAR Championship Weekend Winston Cup and Busch Finales, November 15-17. "To host the final race of the year for both the NASCAR Busch Series is a great honor. It promises to be one of the most action-packed weekends in all of motorsports," said Curtis Gray, President of Homestead Miami Speedway. And you can count on Pelco’s security system to be a part of NASCAR’s history. For more information abo ut Homestead Miami Speedway, visit their website located at www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com.