Networking giant Cisco has agreed to acquire video surveillance firm SyPixx Networks for $51m in cash and stock. SyPixx markets hardware and software technology that allows analogue video surveillance systems to plug into IP networks. The deal positions Cisco to offer video surveillance technology and enter the physical security market.

The deal is subject to various standard closing conditions, including regulatory approval, and is expected to close by the end of April. SyPixx, which was founded in 2004, employs 27 people in Connecticut, California and Arizona. Its portfolio includes analogue to digital video camera encoders, digital to analogue video monitor decoders, analogue video transmission equipment, video recording and management software and servers. Once the deal closes, SyPixx video surveillance products will become part of Cisco's Emerging Markets Technology Group. ®

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