IP Surveillance
Solutions
Whether you require a new system built from scratch or you’re looking to expand an existing setup, Santa Monica Systems has the solution. Our experience with IP surveillance technologies ensures that you will get the optimal solution no matter what your security needs may be. Our integration specialists will make certain that any new equipment will work seamlessly alongside your current equipment.
Benefits
Video Surveillance is the foundation of any comprehensive security strategy. Having the capability to review camera footage after an incident is an indispensable tool for any diligent investigation, and if a crime was committed on your premises, such footage is often the necessary piece of evidence that enables proper identification and successful conviction. Liability disputes are often resolved by utilizing footage from location cameras. For assembly plant, warehouse, and construction zone installations, video surveillance can reveal incidence of work-related injury fraud, employee negligence, and inventory theft. They can also significantly boost workplace efficiency and productivity.
Due to the effectiveness and flexibility of Internet Protocol (IP) camera system as a future-proof option for security and surveillance installations, a growing number of homeowners and business establishments are adopting it for their own properties. As future users, it is important for you to understand the common pitfalls, the various options to customize your system, and the benefits of installing a fully digital system based on your unique needs.
Types of IP Cameras
- Fixed and domed camera
This camera is recommended for monitoring a very specific area as it can clearly capture footage from its focus point. A fixed camera may also be enclosed in a dome to hide the direction it is facing. These models are small and can conduct discreet and unnoticed surveillance of a smaller monitored space.
- Day and night camera
A day and night camera can provide continuous surveillance of a monitored space for 24 hours a day and seven days a week. It features near infrared (IR) lights that allow it to capture footage in low light and even complete darkness. During the day, the images captured by the camera are in full color. The images that are taken at night however, are in black and white.
- Wireless camera
This camera is recommended over others because it can be installed anywhere without the need of wires. Its external antenna is used to communicate with the other devices in the system. However, the camera can only function clearly at a certain distance based on its specifications.
- Indoor camera
This camera is primarily designed for indoor applications like offices, production areas, and retail stores. This camera is available with many models and differing features and is offered by many companies and brands.
- Outdoor camera
An outdoor camera is specifically intended for outdoor applications and it is designed to withstand the various environmental risks and hazards like wind, dust, and moisture. This camera is usually enclosed in an IP66 or IP67-rated weatherproof housing as a safeguard against weather.
- PTZ camera
A pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) camera is recommended for covering wide areas because of its ability to move and rotate at multiple angles. It is a combination of a camera and an electronic controller. The footage captured by the camera is sent over an IP network and are recorded to a PC server with video management software.
Features of IP Cameras
- Bandwidth Limiting
This feature allows the camera to control the network bandwidth that is needed to transmit recorded data.
- Auto Focus
This ability allows the camera to focus on a subject, particularly a moving one.
- Night Vision
The night vision capability of IP cameras is achieved by an IR filter that allows images to be viewable, although in black and white.
- Backlight Compensation
This feature allows a clearer image of a focused object against a bright background.
- Power Over Ethernet (POE)
Used with wired systems, this allows the network data cable to handle both power and data simultaneously without a separate power cable to the cameras.
- Motion Detection
This feature allows the camera to send an alarm whenever it detects motion in a monitored space.
Successful IP Camera Installation
- Selecting a Network Camera
You should carefully select the appropriate types of cameras to be used in your system based on your security requirements. You should not favor a device based on its cost but rather on performance, durability, and relevance for your security needs.
- Choosing the Right Type of Compression for the Digital Video
You should decide on the right compression standard for your network to ensure that it performs smoothly and so that collected video can be stored sufficiently that it will be available for evidence in court if needed.
- Deciding on the Video Management Tools
When selecting your video management tools, you should consider such factors as available bandwidth, storage capacity, expandability/scalability, frame rate control, and integration capability. Also, one must decide if the main device for control is a PC or mobile device such as a smartphone.
- Determining the Storage Capacity of the System
Among the considerations when deciding on your storage capacity are frame rate, the length of time that video footage will be stored, and the required redundancy. Backup protocols and off-site storage may also be necessary for high-risk property.
- Integrating Analog Cameras
Including existing analog cameras in your system may reduce the installation costs and add to the overall area coverage of your system.
- Using Wireless Networking
Decide where to install wireless cameras to avoid the installation of long cables and avoid damaging sensitive features of your premises. Also consider that wireless IP cameras work better with line-of-site installation and can be affected by interference from other powerful electronics nearby.
- Preparing a Network Design
Your system design will be based on your specific needs. Among the things that you should consider are the cameras used, IP addressing and transport protocols, methods of transmission, bandwidth, scalability or upgradability, and network security.
- Ensuring the Security of the System
Ensuring that your videos are safe is one of the most important considerations in completing an installation of an IP surveillance system. Among the things that you should examine and decide on are the proper security options like firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), password protection and cloud storage. This is to ensure that your system is secure and not open to the public.
- Selecting the Latest Technologies for the System
You should utilyze the latest technologies during the design of your IP camera system due to available modern features like intelligent video-taking, motion detection, and night vision. Having the synergy of network cameras and intelligent video capability will make your system more effective and reliable.
Although IP camera installation is easier and more economical than ever before, there should still be a planning stage, a study of the different type of cameras that are available and consultation with an expert. Once you have progressed through these simple steps, you are ready for the installation. Remember that IP security is an excellent investment that will pay dividends for years to come.
