This blog describes how to replace a SCOOT Loop detector with a video detection system.

As illustrated in our recent Bristol case study video detection is now considered a viable and cost effective alternative for conventional SCOOT loop detectors and are surprisingly easy to install.  Using C&T’s Iteris VersiCam™ video detection system as an example, installation of this technology is surprisingly easy, involving five simple steps:  

  1. The VersiCam™ can be installed effectively onto a traffic signal pole, utilising six cores in the traffic signal cable and mounted onto an extension bracket fitted to the pole.  There are options where you do not have 6 cores.
  • If there is 24 volts already at the pole, you only need 4 cores
  • 4 Cores not available?  Locate the LCC interface at the pole, then use 2 cores to send the output back to the signal controller
  • 2 Cores not available?  There is an option to send the output via GSM to an O.T.U located in the client’s office or install a Cat5 cable.
Video Detection System
Location of the Versicam Video Detection System

2. To replace a SCOOT loop with a video detector, the position is crucial. This is based on the results of a site survey to identify the location of the SCOOT loop.  The system can be mounted on a traffic signal pole of an upstream junction or on a street lighting column.  Anywhere that you can get a 24v or 230v supply. 

3. The detection zone must then be set according to the zone or lane for which the traffic needs to be detected.  You can draw one zone across 2 lanes, or have a single lane zone, and you can have up to 2 outputs. The zones detect moving and stopped vehicles so no problems detecting congestion.  This configuration can be done by observing the replies into the UTC (Urban Traffic Control) system, to ensure that the detection zone is the correct size in the direction of travel (typically around 2m), so that the UTC system receives the correct amount of LPU’s (Link Profile Units) per vehicle.

A screenshot of a cell phone

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This data is an example illustration from our Bristol installation

4. The existing controller’s SCOOT detector input can be re-used in order to send the data back to UTC.  The UTC system can then be set up to receive this input for the associated link.

5. Once the installation is complete, best practice is to re-validate the SCOOT link, and the camera left operating for a few weeks so that data can be collected from the site for analysis and review.

While the installation process is simpler than you might think, it does clearly require some degree of initial experience and expertise. C&T are here to provide training and support to integration technicians as well as the video detection equipment to enable self-installation.