Mandarake Centralizes Security and Operations Across 900 Cameras with Synology

Shoplifting and theft are common issues in retail stores, especially those that carry high-priced items. Security challenges are particularly pronounced in these environments. 

"I believe that crimes occur due to gaps in the store's security," says Tanaka Yoshiyuki, President and CEO. "While robbery may be unavoidable, we have been implementing surveillance cameras over the past 15 years to help deter impulsive crimes."

However, operations have become increasingly difficult because the cameras are managed individually at each location using a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or Network-Attached Storage (NAS). Additionally, many non-Synology products have browser restrictions, limiting the ability to view footage exclusively through a Microsoft Internet Explorer plugin.

Using Synology, all cameras connected to the NAS can be managed with Surveillance Station. Mandarake deploys a host server identified as DS1522 and utilizes DS920 and DS923 as recording servers, allowing them to control approximately 900 cameras from their headquarters centrally. 

Currently, each store has 2 to 4 NAS devices, with up to 40 cameras connected to each NAS.

Mandarake first became aware of Synology when they began official sales in Japan. Recently, upon the suggestion of their distributor, KSG, the company revisited Synology's products and was impressed by the ease of use of Surveillance Station. This positive experience ultimately led to the decision to adopt Synology's technology.

Although the Synology system was implemented as a Network Video Recorder (NVR) a year ago, it had already been serving as a file server before that. In addition, the NAS is utilized to run a Windows 10 virtual machine remotely.

Mandarake retains 24/7 audio and video footage for three months. When a review is necessary, the event detection feature is used to identify areas where motion has occurred. This footage serves as evidence to verify facts. Cameras above the cash register assist in investigating any discrepancies related to transactions. Reviewing the footage with customers who have inquiries helps address concerns and improve work efficiency.

Field staff have expressed a need to retain footage for up to a year. The company plans to continue collaborating with Synology to equip each store with technology that ensures both cost efficiency and comprehensive recording coverage.