The network camera or IP camera as they are commonly called, refer to a group of high end cameras that are able to connect to any kind of security camera system network. This allows viewing from anywhere that an internet connection can be received, including your smart phones that are properly equipped.
If you need video surveillance, then you are also aware of the problems inherent with static cameras. While you may get a good recording, you will never have real time notification of problems with the area you are watching. A properly set up and secured network camera can provide you with the ability to remotely view property and business or allow you to have others view certain areas within the network.
This works especially well when parents leave their children at day care and wish to see what is going on with their kids during the day.
What to Look for in a Network Camera
When selecting an IP camera there are a number of items to evaluate. These include the basic functions, the field of view, the camera resolution and advanced functions of the camera. The basic functions include the maximum resolution of the network camera, the specific resolution you wish to achieve, day & night compatibility, audio support, power over Ethernet and whether or not the camera will be inside or in the weather.
When selecting the viewing field you have the option of fixed focal distances and equipment with variable focal distances. Equipment with vari-focal or zoom lenses require a bit more work in developing your plan while fixed lenses do not provide as much coverage and make identification more difficult based on the distance of the subjects.
The advanced functions of a network camera include the ability to handle video, how the equipment is integrated into your system optical features, connectivity issues and the environment. Video handling includes the ability of the system to prevent blurring when there is motion in the video and also to handle lighting conditions as they change.
System integration includes how your camera is triggered and how the resulting video is stored. Systems that are triggered by motion detectors save the most system resources and continuous video takes up the most resources and usually requires the addition of a separate DVR or similar system to catalog the images.
Top Manufacturers of a Network Camera
Over the last 5 years the IP recording industry has exploded. The top performing manufacture of the this equipment is AXIS, as reported by an informal survey of IT security managers. The reason for this is the vast array of equipment they have to offer and their commitment to quality and service.
It does not hurt that they were first in the market either. The major electronics manufacturers all have developed decent equipment and it continues to improve as the demand increases. Aviigilon, Samsung and Sony all have excellent offerings at the moment and the newest runner in the market is Vivotek.
Take your time when a network camera for video surveillance. Find the best advice you can get and try as many different setups as possible depending on your different situation.
Leave a Reply