IP Based Digital Surveillance Systems

IP cameras are easily integrated into complex systems, but can also operate as separate solutions in video surveillance systems. In essence they are cameras with built-in video server and integrated wireless and/or cable interface. Image, obtained by them is fully digital and is transmitted over the network (LAN / WAN / Internet / GPRS & 3G) with guaranteed no loss of image quality on route. In many cases, an IP camera with optimal location can replace several analog cameras with low resolution.

However, without the need for coax cables and additional cabling - IP cameras can use existing LAN or wireless network. High speed Internet connection is required for normal functioning of security system built on the basis of network cameras, wire or wireless router (depending on the specifics of the camera), a static IP address or dynamic DNS (Domain Name Server) service provider, PC to configure the cameras and monitor generated image. Usually the camera is equipped with specialized software package that provides basic maintenance functions such as configuration, monitoring and recording the image. User could purchase additional software for the video to extend the technical features of the camera. Usually it is made for leading trade marks cameras, supports feature to receive e-mails, stream live images and video to mobile phone or computer.

Additional element in the video surveillance system, built on the basis of IP cameras, could be encoder, called video server. It is used in applications where the user has already established a system of analog cameras and would like to move to a digital system. Encoder, i.e. video encoding device, digitalizes analog video signals and distributes digital images in IP-based network. Among the advantages of IP cameras is the ability to be installed even in areas without central power. Most of these cameras feature support PoE (Power over Ethernet) and are powered through Ethernet cable. This feature facilitates the installation of the product as the central power is not required. The network video device then works even when there is main power failure. In some cameras, PoE function is built-in, while others require additional PoE adapter. PoE integrates power into a standard LAN infrastructure, and supplying it to the network device (IP phone or camera). Furthermore, backup power system for the entire video surveillance can only be guaranteed with a single UPS. According to experts from industry, despite this dominant market share of analogue CCTV cameras, the future belongs to digital solutions in the field. The reason is undisputed advantages of IP video surveillance systems that offer more flexibility and excellent opportunities for integration.

Unlike CCTV cameras, network video surveillance solutions provide opportunities for remote access and control over the Internet. Communication also has a high level of security because of the methods of encryption and identification. Another advantage of digital solutions is the integration of intelligence in the cameras, which provides countless possibilities for the analysis in order to detect certain persons, detection and counting of the people, reading the signs, registration numbers, track objects, registering the movement and others. Integrated recording of sound signals that cancels the need for additional wiring are among many advantages of IP cameras. Unlike analogue camera, which is a device for generating images, offering an opportunity for one way transmission of data, in IP cameras the signal is two way. They could fully integrate into existing information systems and to communicate simultaneously with several applications, etc. Network camera with integrated web server does not need a direct connection to PC or other hardware and software. They operate as separate devices. The only requirement is connection to a network. Ethernet interface in a high class camera can transmit data directly to at least 10 computers simultaneously. If the images are first sent to an external web server (instead of directly observed in the control point, for example), the video can be monitored in real time from an unlimited number of users of IP network.

ADVANTAGES:

1. Extremely easy installation and operation.

2. Ability to work without a separate power supply (PoE).

3. Very high image quality - up to several mega pixels.

4. Without losses in the transmission of video over the network.

5. Practically unlimited number of users able to monitor video in real time.

6. Opportunity for printing parts of the image, as persons, number of cars and more.

RESTRICTIONS:

1. Still very expensive.

2. The software is usually for one or 4 cameras, but more should be paid separately.

3. IP cameras without a built-in WEB server are dependent on the network, i.e. interruption of Internet connection results in record interruption.