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| 10 | 2006 |
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| Surveillance Systems: Are you ready to go digital? |
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The days of analog surveillance systems with time-lapse VCRs are nearly gone thanks to the invention of the network camera just 10 years ago. Two years later network cameras infiltrated the security industry and IP-based surveillance solutions were born. Over the last several years, they have become the primary system offered, and many are discovering that as their aging analog systems become obsolete, IP-based systems are the best long-term alternative.
Before installing, upgrading or transitioning to an IP-based system, there are a number of considerations you should make to insure a smooth integration.
1. Should you upgrade to a DVR, or a full IP-based solution?
If you currently have an analog system and want to upgrade, there are several options. Upgrading your cameras to Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) may add an element of digital technology, but your system is still analog. On the reverse side, keeping your analog cameras and incorporating a video server enables your video to be digitized and recorded, but as long as it is being transmitted over coaxial cables versus network cables, it is a hybrid system and not a fully IP-based solution. There are a number of advantages to taking the leap to a fully IP-based system. If you’re new to the surveillance industry, IP-based systems can be easier and less expensive to install because they utilize Ethernet and fiber cabling, which is already used wherever Internet access is available. Analog systems require expensive wiring with coaxial cables. Whereas DVRs typically require increases in increments of 16 channels, IP-based systems are completely scalable allowing for cameras to be added individually, and for enterprise-size businesses, hundreds to thousands of cameras can be easily added to the system. Network cameras have also surpassed analog cameras in image quality, resolution and compression methods. And, because IP-based systems use standard IT technology, they are easier to upgrade and the application possibilities are endless.
2. What type of cameras will you need?
Are you installing cameras for security during the day? Only at night? Or both? Are you hoping to deter criminals or catch them in the act? Will they be placed outside or inside? These and other factors will help you select between infrared, day/night cameras and weatherproof cameras as well as larger, easily spotted cameras to deter crime, or mini and bullet cameras to catch them in the act. Are they being installed in a historical building or will they be moved frequently? Wireless cameras offer mobility and don’t require cable installations that can damage historical buildings.
3. What are your security goals?
Do you need features other than standard camera surveillance? IP-based systems can enable two-way audio, easily allow for remote monitoring from anywhere in the world via an internet connection, provide additional functionality to monitor temperature-controlled areas, water levels, or water pressure. Advanced systems can offer motion detection, license plate recognition, and monitoring of secure entrances.
4. Can your network handle it?
Because most businesses are already networked with Ethernet or fiber cabling for internet connectivity, the transition to an IP-based system is a relatively simple one. You will need to add a video server to your network that can maintain the large file sizes associated with video transmissions. And, as with any server, employ a backup system. In addition, you will also need to consider your bandwidth. If your existing network has plenty of capacity and there are few cameras in your surveillance system, you may be able to add IP surveillance to the mix. If, however, your bandwidth is already congested with features such as Voiceover IP, or if you have a large surveillance system, it’s best to add a dedicated network to maintain the video traffic.
5. Is IP-based security really secure?
An IP-based surveillance system will be open to the same security risks as any other application that’s exposed to the internet. And when setting up your video server, you should take the same precautions – put it behind the network firewall, maintain updated anti-virus software, use a secure server for encryption, and add password protection for authentication and authorization of network access. If your surveillance system includes wireless network cameras, you’ll also want to consider using Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) for additional encryption and protection.
Regardless of what features you decide to include in your IP-based surveillance system, the easy scalability, advanced functions, remote monitoring capabilities and long-term advantages will provide a cost-effective solution with the flexibility to grow with your business.
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About The Brookfield Group
The Brookfield Group has become a leader in IT, ISP, ASP and web solutions by providing next level technology solutions managed by experts who give you peace of mind without the tech-talk. The company's services are customized to fit any enterprise-size businesses and include: IT project management; hosting solutions and maintenance; systems security and patches; telecommunications services, server and desktop setup, repair and applications; network infrastructure design; audio visual products; surveillance and security solutions; as well as a variety of other software, hardware, services and accessories. Located in Carmel, Indiana, more information about The Brookfield Group products and services is available at www.thebrookfieldgroup.com or by calling 317.524.6000.
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