A dealer’s perspective: Heston Apex Europe

Since 1994, Heston Apex Europe has specialised in the design, supply, installation and maintenance of a wide variety of security systems. From its beginnings in analogue CCTV, the company is now dedicated solely to IP-based solutions, as Robert De’Antiquis explains:

“IP is the future. Mainly because it is just so flexible. It allows us to leverage the existing network infrastructure that’s already in place at our customer sites, which offers tremendous benefits. The IP devices that we use connect straight in to any available network access point – and a lot have Power-over-Ethernet capability, which minimises new cable runs and makes deployment very quick. This reduces the cost of installation for the customer. It also means we can design systems that better meet our customers’ needs, as we don’t have the constraints of analogue devices that need their own separate cabling.”

“We’re 100% Sony”

Heston Apex Europe is not only dedicated to IP, it is also dedicated to its choice of IP vendor. As a Specialist Sony Dealer, the company only uses Sony Network Video Monitoring equipment.
“Yes, not only are we 100% IP, we’re 100% Sony and we wouldn’t choose anything else.
“The DEPA technology built in to the Sony IPELA range is just brilliant. It takes intelligent monitoring to a new level by putting it directly into the network camera. So when a situation occurs – whether it be a bag that is left unattended for too long, or a person entering an unauthorised space – the camera itself will detect it and inform security staff proactively via an e-mail alert. And because the detection technology is so advanced, it completely eliminates false alerts – right down to 0%. This takes all the pressure off security staff, who would otherwise have to monitor multiple screens and decide which alerts need attention and which don’t.
“Of course, it’s up to us as the system installer to set up the right parameters for these alerts, but we’re helped a great deal in this by Sony RealShot Manager, which is so easy to use. The software has other benefits too. It makes searching through recorded images back in the control room a breeze, and it allows operators to control the pan/tilt/zoom and bi-directional audio capabilities of their Sony cameras.”

“Support at many levels”

Since becoming a Specialist Sony Dealer over 18 months ago, Heston Apex Europe has benefited greatly from the many features and tools that Sony’s much-coveted accreditation programme has to offer.

“The support at many levels we have got from Sony has been very reassuring. We know that we can call on Sony’s expert resources at any time for a whole range of issues, from pricing and technical support, through to help with our marketing strategies. Plus, they do great product training and engineering days that get us right up to speed on the latest products and technologies.

“The accreditation has been invaluable to us in securing new business and building upon our commitment to strong customer service.”

Heston Apex Europe website