IP Security Cameras

In today’s world, an IP surveillance camera system may be the smart solution to a security issue in a home, business, or other establishment. Compared to traditional security cameras, IP or Internet protocol has its advantages and disadvantages. However, more and more customers are switching due to the ease of installation and higher resolution of video. CCTV (closed circuit television) and DVR methods are quickly becoming obsolete because IP allows business owners to view video from anywhere with an Internet or network connection. With a wide market out there, some business owners may feel a little overwhelmed. However, by looking at some of the top manufacturers and learning about the different options available within the IP security camera world, making a confident decision isn’t all that complicated.

Large companies and retailers have a lot of property to protect. “Devise not evil against thy neighbor, seeing he dwelled securely by thee” (Proverbs 3:29). With an IP surveillance camera, the business can exist securely without any concern for theft or tampering going on unmonitored. An IP system can monitor an area 24/7, and the business owner can access either live video or recorded video through a network or on the Internet. These systems are becoming vastly more effective than CCTV and even DVR because clearer still images can be pulled from Internet protocol video, making it easier to identify culprits, even in quick motion. Plus, companies with previously established DVR or CCTV systems can easily integrate Internet protocol into the old system without making it completely useless. Others find that Internet protocol is superior to old methods of surveillance monitoring because CCTV requires expensive coaxial cabling while protocol cables are significantly cheaper and can be less obtrusive.

IP security camera systems are not perfect by any means. There are some disadvantages that some with the territory. IP cameras may not all perform as well as traditional cameras in low light. Frame rate can also be a problem for some Internet protocol models as well, making the image look jumpy. The quality of image sensors has come into questions with IP cameras, and there is a lack of standard when it comes to video encoding, meaning that not every type of camera is compatible with every type of encoder. Some of these kinks are already being worked out by the top manufacturers and may not even be a major issue with some of their best models. Customers will need to ask a representative about these issues and may also want to request some demos or sample videos from specific models.

An important part of selecting an IP surveillance camera is selecting the video encoder. To make compatibility less complicated, it’s best to purchase the encoder from the same manufacturer as the camera. The video encoder sends the video over the IP network, making it possible to view video from remote locations over the network or Internet. There are different aspects of video encoders that customers need to be aware of. Most encoders can be split into two categories: one-port and four-port. One-port or one channel means that the encoder only digitizes one camera’s analog. Four-port has four channels for encoding four camera’s analog video at once. Obviously, for every four cameras the company purchases, it would need another four-port encoder. Apart from port requirements, other important features to compare within these categories include maximum video resolution, compression rate, and embedded analytics. Embedded analytics can include motion detecting, video loss, audio detecting, and active tampering. Customers will want to look at each of these features in more detail on manufacturers’ websites.

Another aspect of selecting an IP security camera is the type of camera and whether it is designed for indoor or outdoor use. Some are conveniently designed for both. The outdoor cameras will be able to withstand the elements (to a degree) and handle adjustments in natural lighting more so than compared to indoor models. Most manufacturers will offer a wide selection of cameras that include features such as motion detecting, panning, and zooming. The need for these features really depends on the security needs of the establishment. Motion detection helps reduce the amount of recorded information. A motion detecting camera is designed to sense motion in an area and immediately record the motion. Some cameras will even notify the business owner that there is motion sensed. This greatly reduces the amount of recordings that need to be filtered through to get video of a theft. Zoom, tilt, and pan allow the camera to follow motion rather than maintain one wide view of activity.

When considering the purchase of an IP surveillance camera system, price always comes into consideration. The most top-of-the-line systems can cost an upwards of $10,000. Of course, this number involves an amount of cameras, encoders, and other accessories that not all businesses would require. Every business owner needs to contact the top manufacturers to discuss options and request a quote. Some manufacturers will not sell directly to customers but will provide a list of recommended merchants. It’s important to use these merchants as they are trusted by the manufacturer for not only sale but installation. It’s not a bad idea to also price CCTV and DVR security options as well, but be sure to compare video quality. If the business owner doesn’t have his heart set on monitoring video from anywhere, CCTV or DVR could be a less expensive alternative to Internet protocol. For large companies with a great deal of sensitive information or expensive inventory, an IP security camera system may be the best option. There’s really no price too high when it comes to keeping one’s business, employees, and inventory secure at all time.

Reference Source:
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