#IP video surveillance
IP video surveillance: a brief overview.
Guided by the principle of «just so that it happens», some heads of security services prefer the cheapest option — analog video surveillance systems.
However, it is time to admit that analog equipment for video surveillance systems is becoming obsolete. Soon it can be safely attributed to a past stage in the history of security video surveillance.
The functions of the analog system are somewhat truncated: for example, the transmission distance of the analog signal is limited by a number of parameters.
The number of access points is also counted in units, while access to the IP system is unlimited due to operation via LAN.
Analog cameras also have lower image quality: maximum 650 TVL.
Digital resolution has more advanced parameters and provides better image quality.
Other disadvantages of the analog system include the lack of resources to expand its capabilities, as well as the need for constant and expensive maintenance.
Fortunately, new security systems are based on completely different principles.
They are based on the use of IP protocols. They allow you to monitor the situation at the facility in real time, using any device connected to the Internet.
Even iPhones and mobile phones are suitable for this purpose!
Information in digital form can be transmitted both over a local and global network — however, thanks to a multi-level system of access control to the video channel, even the most savvy hackers will not be able to see information intended only for the enterprise security service.
The main advantage of implementing IP technologies in video surveillance systems is the ability to build decentralized distributed systems, especially at large facilities.
In addition, the transition from analog to digital format provides the broadest possibilities for analytical image processing: from the simplest functions for detecting changing lighting conditions to recognizing objects, faces and their trajectory of movement.
The use of special software products allows you to quickly recognize potential threats and respond to them promptly.
For example, TRASSIR brand software, offered on the domestic market, allows you to recognize smoke, fire, search for car numbers in a database, etc.
Since additional digital signal coding is not required, network systems provide high-quality video signals.
Thanks to the appearance of high-resolution cameras (up to 5 megapixels) on the market, the image becomes so clear and easy to read that it becomes possible to discern any small details.
Thanks to standard IP network protocols, video surveillance setup and management is quite simple.
To maintain an IP video system, you do not need to hire or train additional personnel; any system administrator can handle such a network.
With the growing popularity of IP video surveillance, many users are confident that it is quite easy to build video surveillance with your own hands.
This may be true for small systems, but in order to organize a comprehensive security solution at a large facility, you need to use the help of professionals.
Another advantage: network video systems do not require the installation of several coaxial cables, as is required by analog systems, but operate on a single LAN channel, which can be accessed from anywhere in the world.
The basis of any video surveillance system is cameras. IP video cameras have a built-in IP server, a network interface and are connected directly to LAN/WAN/Internet.
Many IP cameras have additional features such as motion detectors, the ability to send messages via e-mail, support for working with a modem, etc.
A single cable can transmit not only a video signal, but also sound, and also control an IP camera, including remotely.
On the Russian market, IP video surveillance equipment is represented by such brands as Panasonic, Mobotix, Axis, Microdigital, Hikvision, etc.
Manufacturers offer various solutions that differ in their set of functions and class.
Top-class cameras are usually used at sites that require increased control, as well as in difficult lighting conditions.
Mid-range cameras represent an ideal price-quality ratio.
In terms of technical characteristics, they are practically not inferior to their expensive counterparts.
Such products are offered by less well-known brands on the Russian market.
This equipment is manufactured in countries with the lowest cost of labor and raw materials — for example, in China.
The consumer still votes with his wallet, which means we have every reason to admit that high-quality branded products from China will soon become a market trend.
After all, if a video surveillance camera performs its functions smoothly, is easily integrated into a security system, and the manufacturer provides a long-term guarantee, then this is more than enough.
Many experts note the high cost of IP video cameras as the main disadvantage of IP video surveillance — in contrast to analog models.
However, we are sure: this argument is already outdated!
Today, manufacturers offer a whole range of IP equipment that is comparable in cost to analog models.
In addition, the range of IP video cameras is constantly being improved and developed in accordance with the latest security requirements, and new analog surveillance products are now much more difficult to find on the market.
Manufacturers are trying to get rid of leftovers in the warehouse and sell analog devices at minimal prices, but is it worth buying them if you can find an IP solution at a similar cost?
In addition, you will save yourself the problems of servicing and operating the video system, saving money, nerves and time.
Watching the development of the security television market, you can be sure that the transition to IP video surveillance is not a forced necessity, but a completely logical step in the evolutionary development of the high-tech market.
What trends tomorrow will bring us — time will tell.
One thing is undeniable: security must be simple, reliable and convenient.