Innovated EPIS 5.1AKS Camera System

Herman introduces a significantly innovated version of its EPIS 5.1AKS-10 camera system, building on the previous EPIS 5.0AKS model. The new generation delivers substantially higher performance, extended configuration options, and enhanced security for handling camera recordings—particularly for public transport vehicles and emergency services.

Significantly more powerful control module

The new EPIS 5.1AKS system is equipped with a far more powerful control module, enabling simultaneous recording from up to 16 cameras. The internal SSD can be selected with a capacity of up to 8 TB, greatly expanding storage space for recordings.

The unit also includes a backup battery that, in the event of a power outage, ensures safe retention of camera data stored in the control unit’s memory.

Enhanced security with an electronic lock

Another innovation is the option to equip the system with an electronic lock based on Dallas chips, used to identify the person performing manual removal of the SSD. This operation is automatically logged in the internal memory of the control unit.

Wide connectivity and configuration options

The control unit can be equipped with the following accessories:

• LCD display unit for monitoring camera views inside the vehicle
• LTE or 5G
• Wi-Fi module (including Wi-Fi 6 standard)
• GNSS – positioning accuracy down to 1.5 m
• Control keypad for camera selection (standalone system)
• Interface for external control of the camera system (onboard computer, control and monitoring center)

Communication is handled by two 1 Gbit/s Ethernet ports, providing both camera system control and connectivity to the vehicle’s internal network. A dedicated RS-485 bus is available for the external control keypad. The status of individual cameras and the control unit itself is indicated by LEDs (16× LEDs – one per camera).

Power-state response and auxiliary control functions

The system includes additional inputs and outputs for controlling connected devices—for example, relays switching heating for external cameras, PoE switch power status (supplying power to the cameras), etc. If the EPC control unit receives information that the vehicle does not have sufficient energy to operate the system, it automatically shuts down the cameras and then itself.

New PoE Ethernet switches

To support camera systems with a higher number of cameras (up to 16), two new switch types with increased PoE performance have been developed. They are suitable for vehicles and other environments using +24 V or +12 V power. The new types are:

• ECU_05LGM-4T-06/24 – 5-port Gigabit switch, 60 W PoE (802.3at), M12 connectors – X-coding
• ECU_08LM-7Tx-12-24 – 8-port switch, 100 Mbit/s, 120 W PoE (2× 60 W), connectors: 7× M12-D and 1× M12-X

Monitoring management

The EPIS 5.1AKS system supports remote monitoring and control, including retrieval of recordings in both online and offline modes, in accordance with the functions described in the KS-BOS system.

“We are currently building up inventory for EPIS 5.1AKS. We focused on reliability and fleet management: recording from up to 16 cameras, audited SSD removal via a Dallas chip, and optional LTE/5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity simplify both operation and servicing,” says Ivo Herman.