An IP camera (or Internet protocol camera) is a type of digital security cam which receives and transmits video via an IP network. They are often used for surveillance. They are not like analog closed-circuit television cameras, (CCTV), and do not require a local recording device. IP cameras can connect to a network the same way as phones and computers.
Networked IP Cameras
Coaxial video cables are required for analog and digital-over-digital security cameras to transmit the footage to a DVR. An ip camera, on the other hand can transmit footage via a wireless connection. Specifically, IP cameras can connect to a network camera (NVR), via Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable.
An IP camera captures footage in high definition--resolution can be as high as 16 megapixels, depending on the camera model. Every IP camera is equipped with a processor chip that compresses video footage as it's being recorded. What does that mean? The higher the resolution of the camera, the more data each video recording has. High-resolution images will require more storage space, and greater bandwidth to transmit data than images of lower quality. HD images must be compressed by IP cameras to transmit them over a network. This will reduce bandwidth consumption and save storage space. Modern compression standards such as h.264 or MPEG-4 ensure that the file size does not drop or has a minimal drop in resolution and frame rate when it reaches your computer or phone.
Advantages of IP Surveillance over Analog
An increasing number of customers turn to IP cameras for video surveillance in today’s high-security environment. IP surveillance has many advantages over analog CCTV video technology, whether you are looking to replace an existing surveillance system or install a new one. You will be amazed at how network cameras surpass analog counterparts in many ways.
Image Quality
- Progressive scan
Many IP cameras employ progressive scan technology to make sure that even objects in motion are clearly visible.
- Megapixel Resolution
Network cameras with megapixel resolution capture high-quality video images and offer a wider field of vision than traditional surveillance cameras.
- True Digital Solutions
A network camera system has only one digital conversion at the beginning, so there is no image degradation from excessive conversions.
Remote Monitoring
- Web Access
You can access your IP camera footage remotely and control the camera functions from any computer that uses a standard web browser.
- Mobile Surveillance
Remote monitoring of network cameras can be done via cell phone, PDA or laptop.
- Remote Storage
Digital storage of IP camera footage is possible at remote locations.
On-Camera Intelligence
- Optmized Bandwidth
Advanced functionality at the camera levels reduces bandwidth.
- Advanced Motion Detection
Intelligent motion detection improves video monitoring efficiency and reduces false alarms.
- Auto Tracking
Network cameras can use auto tracking to monitor and record what happens.
- Analytics
Advanced video analytics can be added to IP cameras, such as people counting and left-object detection.
- Tamper Detection
An automated alert is sent when the camera or lens is damaged by tamper detection.
- Audio Detection
When specific sounds, such as gunshots or broken glass are detected by audio detection, it triggers an automated alarm and recording.
- Built in
Triggers Onboard triggers are able to initiate alarms and recording.
Installation Benefits
- Power over Ethernet
PoE allows network cameras power to be received via an Ethernet cable.
- Leverage Existing Network
An IP camera system allows you to leverage your existing wireless or wired network.
- Integrated PTZ
PTZ controls are usually integrated into the camera. This is in contrast to analog cameras that require additional wiring to enable pan/tilt/zoom functions.
Security
- Encryption
An analog camera transmits video over coax cables, but IP cameras send digital transmissions securely and safely.
- Password Protection
The password protects network cameras so that only authorized users have access to them.
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