RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC — Cisco Systems

is adding video surveillance capabilities to its converged network offerings by acquiring another company.

Cisco announced Tuesday morning it would spend $51 million in cash and options to acquire privately held SyPixx Networks, a provider of video surveillance software and hardware for networks.

Customers will be able to integrate existing surveillance systems into one security network, Cisco said. "Video will be accessible at any time from any place, enabling real time incident response, investigation and resolution," the company added. "This will support the deployment and control of new security applications and maximize the value of live and recorded video."

SyPixx, which was founded in 2004, is based in Waterbury, CN. It has 27 employees.