Introduction

This quick guide discusses the Multi-Unit Network functionality (also referred to as wide opening network) available on the Irisys Vector units and how to connect units together.

A full understanding of the wiring connections below is essential to ensure that Vector 4D devices are functioning correctly and do not get inadvertently damaged.
 

Multi-Unit Networks

Multi-Unit networks consist of multiple Vector devices connected and working together to provide a single point of count-data output.

 

 

 

The most common use of a multi-unit network is to monitor a much larger area than provided by a single Vector, i.e. a very wide doorway or entrance. In these cases, devices are installed next to each other so that their field of views overlap by a small amount. The overlap ensures that it is not possible for people to walk through any gap, and internal tracking routines in the Vectors ensure that people seen in the overlap are not counted twice. Effectively multiple Vectors combine to form one very wide continuous field of view. Vector devices can also be installed in more complex arrangements, or arrays, to cover much bigger areas, or to confine the perimeter of an open shop, for example.

 

Alternatively, Vectors on a multi-unit network can be installed without an overlap, at separate locations, and just use the consolidated total count data output functionality.

There can be up to 32 Vector Analytic devices, or 4 Vector Count devices working together on a multi-unit network if required.

 

Specifying the Right Number of Devices

Specifying and installing the right number of devices is vital to both ensure that the entrance/exit is fully covered, but equally you've not wasted money by specifying too many devices. Installing too many units very close together is not only wasteful, but can affect accuracy unless installed and configured very carefully.

Vectors should be positioned carefully to ensure some overlap, but not too much.
If Vectors are positioned too far apart, there could be a gap where people can walk and not be tracked/counted.
Additionally, positioning Vectors too close together, will mean that there is a very large overlap and any slight alignment issues will be magnified, and could course tracking issues.
There is also an Excel spreadsheet calculator available which allows positioning of up to 32 Vector Analytics.

 

Connections

Vectors on a Multi-Unit Network are connected to each other via a regular IP network:

If required, a local switch can be used to reduce long cable runs and simplify network connections. This will then require a single network cable to link the local switch to the main network. This may be a preferred method of cabling providing there is a nearby mains power outlet to power the local switch:

 

Note power connections to Vector 4D devices are not shown. Non-PoE versions will require separate cable runs. PoE compatible Vectors must be powered by a PoE switch.
 

Device Directions

Each Vector base has a direction arrow on it to assist with aligning devices - this corresponds with the lens position on each device. When Vectors are working together – combining their individual field of views to create one large field of view – it is usually much easier to simply install all devices pointing in the same direction, but with the advent of latest ‘Tilt’ enabled firmware, the direction of each individual Vector can later be entered as an angle as part of the configuration and so this is now less of a requirement.

 

See separate documentation for details of the tilt functionality.

When Vectors are utilised without overlaps at locations separated from each other the direction of device should simply be as per single device recommendations, i.e. pointing into the store or building in the direction of travel.

 

Multi-Unit Network Configuration

Once Vectors are powered and networked together, they require configuration. See multi-unit configuration settings section of the wiki for details.