Software for IP video surveillance systems.
The active distribution and popularization of IP solutions for security video surveillance systems have led to the emergence of a separate independent direction in CCTV — software for systems based on IP cameras and video encoders. We are talking not only about software solutions offered by IP camera manufacturers, but also about the developments of third-party companies that create universal programs that can work with various IP devices.
The Need for Universal Programs
At the moment, none of the IP camera manufacturers is able to cover the entire spectrum of security surveillance and monitoring tasks and offer a 100% solution taking into account the operating conditions and specifics of the facility. As a result, the need to use devices from different manufacturers to create an IP video surveillance system is most acute.
The idea of universal software is obvious — in analog television there are certain standards and protocols that ensure compatibility and interaction of devices from different manufacturers. Of course, at the stage of development of a new technology, which is IP video surveillance, each manufacturer includes its own solutions in the standards. Despite attempts to create such a standard, today there are two organizations that claim the right to systematize the approaches, protocols and data libraries of manufacturers. In Europe — ONVIF, in North America — PSIA.
It is not entirely clear what the interest of manufacturers is in developing a common standard and compatibility of solutions. Indeed, if electronic giants capable of developing and producing inexpensive and functional IP cameras will undoubtedly succeed in the production of IP devices, then universal software already exists thanks to the work of third-party manufacturers. Thus, a large number of companies — manufacturers of their own IP solutions may simply disappear from the market, not finding their own niche and not being able to prove the uniqueness of their devices and software products. In this case, we can expect an increase in the popularity of universal software for IP video surveillance.
Universal software market
It should be noted that today there is already a systematization of solutions offered by manufacturers of universal software for IP systems.
This market sector includes, firstly, large companies that have specialized in developing universal software shells for IP video surveillance for many years and offer quite expensive solutions. Secondly, companies for which IP solutions have become a new area of activity in their long history as developers of software solutions for security. Finally, software companies that have responded to the needs of the security market and consider it a new business area. The latter have the least experience and qualifications in the field of security technologies and so far offer relatively cheap, but often mediocre solutions.
Despite the colossal difference in the cost and capabilities of software products, the aforementioned players in the universal software market classify and offer at least three systems — basic, average, more functional, and the most expensive, professional.
Of course, each manufacturer classifies its solutions independently, based on its own ideas. The common principle is the limitation of the program's functionality and/or the number of supported video streams. Almost all manufacturers provide a trial version or the opportunity to test the program for a certain short period of time.
The geography of manufacturers is very wide. It is impossible to single out one or another country as the leader in this area. Traditionally, security systems software is created by companies from the Old World and North America. The spread of IP solutions there began much earlier, and the companies have extensive experience and an impressive list of implemented projects. Their solutions are used all over the world. Russian developments are still of local importance, but they are also actively included in projects of companies from other countries. In Asia, which specializes in the production of primarily analog equipment, IP solutions are not yet so popular. Therefore, software development companies cooperate with manufacturers of IP devices, developing programs for them, which are often implemented as a free addition to the sold equipment.
Software Features
As already noted, the main advantage of universal software for IP video surveillance systems is the ability to work with IP devices from different manufacturers. Despite the difference in image compression algorithms and control protocols, the consumer is guaranteed full compatibility. It is possible to combine in one system standard-resolution cameras costing 0 and expensive megapixel cameras of a world-famous brand. The software allows you to view, manage and record images from all sources. Integration may concern not only the ability to receive and record images, but also support for specific functions of IP devices, such as analytical detectors. Developers provide detailed recommendations for choosing computers for servers and workstations. Lists of supported devices from a number of large manufacturers of universal software include several hundred IP cameras and encoders from various manufacturers.
The architecture of the system depends on the version class. The basic version is usually a single program installed on a single personal computer and provides administration, recording and monitoring functions. Or the manufacturer limits the number of video streams, usually from four to sixteen, thereby eliminating the possibility of creating a large system. There are also basic versions that limit the recording duration by limiting the number of frames.
The mid-range versions are designed for larger systems and allow you to create a separate server for recording and client workstations for monitoring. They have no recording restrictions. These versions are the most popular on the market. Usually, small systems (up to 16 channels) are created on the basis of a software product offered directly by the IP camera manufacturer. These programs are often free and are supplied together with the devices. Systems with 25 to 100 cameras often include cameras from different manufacturers, and here universal software is perfect. The ability to work with facility plans and create script programs for more flexible interaction of devices are typical of the so-called professional versions. Their area of application is large projects with 100 cameras and above. It should be noted here that such systems require careful technical support. There are always nuances and limitations behind universality. Most installers prefer to create large systems based on products from one vendor that has similar solutions.
Prospects As already noted, interest in universal software will grow. First of all, due to the growth of the IP solutions market and the decline in interest in analog systems. Competition in the mid-range systems sector will also intensify. The development of universal software for IP video surveillance will follow the path of integration with IP access control and management systems and the creation of software for integrated security systems. Russian development companies have serious potential to take a leading position in the world in this area.