NTU’s Smart Campus: Powered by Schréder & Zenitel
Zenitel, in partnership with Schréder, has helped Nottingham Trent University (NTU) enhance safety across three of its five smart campuses with audio and video intercoms that deliver clear communication for students and visitors. Zenitel's security communication solutions were chosen as a key component of NTU's safety and security strategy. The intercoms integrate seamlessly with Schréder's SHUFFLE multi-functional smart poles.

SHUFFLE smart poles integrate several services to enhance the feeling of security across the NTU's smart campus.
The safety of all students and colleagues on campus is a priority for Nottingham Trent University. It ensures that all pedestrian routes on campuses are well-lit, regularly patrolled by security teams, and closely monitored using an extensive CCTV network.
The Requirements
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) needed a comprehensive solution to improve campus security and safety, particularly after dark. Key to this was ensuring well-lit pedestrian routes that are closely monitored by security teams. NTU also required a communication system to allow students and staff to contact security quickly, especially in emergencies.
In addition to security, sustainability was a priority. For areas near sensitive environments, like Clifton Woodland, NTU sought eco-friendly lighting solutions that wouldn’t disrupt local wildlife.
The chosen system also needed to be customizable, allowing NTU to brand equipment and integrate it seamlessly into its existing infrastructure.
Finally, NTU wanted future-ready capabilities in its security infrastructure. The system had to be scalable to accommodate future upgrades and new services while being cost-effective with low-maintenance operations. With these comprehensive requirements, NTU identified SHUFFLE smart poles as the perfect solution to meet its immediate and future needs.
The Solution

In 2021, NTU installed SHUFFLE multi-functional smart poles that are integrated lighting modules with Schréder's advanced optics to enhance visibility in targeted areas. The lighting varies in color temperature depending on location, with neutral white LEDs (4,000K) installed in the city center and warmer tones (2,700K) on the Clifton campus, near protected natural spaces such as bat roosting areas.
Additionally, the poles include 360° surveillance cameras for comprehensive coverage, and a two-way, audio-video intercom system from Zenitel. This allows students and staff to communicate directly with the University's security team in real-time, providing immediate assistance when needed.
Zenitel's audio and video intercoms were was seamlessly integrated with the University’s existing infrastructure, ensuring a smooth operational flow.
Additional customization came in the form of beacon lights to make the poles visible from a distance, and branding with NTU's logo and colors that reflect the institution’s identity.
The Result
The SHUFFLE smart poles greatly improved campus security by offering a unified system for lighting, communication, and surveillance. The poles with Zenitel's audio and video intercoms not only enhance the feeling of security for students and staff and provide clear communications, but also minimize the environmental impact through tailored lighting solutions that preserve nearby ecosystems, such as the Clifton Woodland area.
NTU’s decision to integrate the poles with the Schréder EXEDRA lighting management system allows for real-time monitoring, quick detection of failures, and optimized maintenance costs.
The open, interoperable nature of the Schréder EXEDRA system also provides NTU with future scalability, enabling the potential integration of additional smart services as the University grows. This comprehensive, customized solution ensures that NTU’s investment meet both present and future safety needs, while also aligning with its environmental goals and sustainability efforts.