If you have an old CCTV system that uses analog cameras and coaxial cables, you might be wondering if it’s worth upgrading to an IP system that uses digital cameras and network cables. In this blog post, we will describe some of the advantages of upgrading to an IP system and how it can benefit your security and efficiency.
What is an IP CCTV System?
An IP system stands for Internet Protocol system, which means that the cameras send and receive data over a network instead of a dedicated cable. This allows you to connect your cameras to any device that has access to the network, such as a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet. You can also use cloud storage to store and access your video footage from anywhere in the world.
What are the advantages of IP CCTV Systems?
One of the main advantages of an IP system is the higher image quality. IP cameras can capture more details and colors than analog cameras, which are limited by the resolution of the cable. IP cameras can also adjust to different lighting conditions and offer features such as zoom, pan, tilt, and motion detection. You can also choose from different types of IP cameras, such as dome, bullet, or PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), depending on your needs and preferences.
Another advantage of an IP system is the scalability and flexibility. You can easily add or remove cameras from your network without having to run new cables or install new DVRs (digital video recorders). You can also use PoE (Power over Ethernet) to power your cameras with a single cable, reducing the need for separate power sources and outlets. You can also integrate your IP system with other devices and systems, such as alarms, sensors, or access control.
A third advantage of an IP system is the cost-effectiveness and reliability. Although IP cameras may have a higher initial cost than analog cameras, they can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and operational costs. IP cameras have fewer moving parts and are less prone to interference and damage. They also use less bandwidth and storage space than analog cameras, as they only record when there is motion or activity. You can also use encryption and authentication to protect your data from unauthorized access or tampering.
Why IP CCTV is best suited to modern day analytics.
IP cameras are better equipped to handle modern analytics than traditional analog cameras for several reasons.
In our view , the most significant of those reasons is that IP cameras enable Edge Computing. Modern analytics demand a high level of computing power to effectively process video analysis algorithmns. Most standalone DVR’s are limited in their compute ability by the limits of their cpu or processors. IP cameras can be seen as mini computers – therefore each camera shares a portion of the compute capacity on-board. With IP cameras there is sufficient compute power to handle advanced analytics – These features include facial recognition, motion
detection, object tracking, and more
Facial recognition can be used for various purposes such as access control, attendance tracking, customer service, and crime prevention.
For example, a facial recognition system can grant access to authorized personnel in a restricted area or record their attendance in a workplace. A facial recognition system can also recognize customers in a retail store and provide personalized recommendations or offers based on their preferences or purchase history. A facial recognition system can also help law enforcement agencies identify suspects or missing persons in a crowd or in public places.
Motion detection is a technology that can detect movement in a video scene and trigger an action or an alert. Motion detection can be used for various purposes such as intrusion detection, activity monitoring, energy saving, and event recording. For example, a motion detection system can detect an intruder in a property and send an alarm or notification to the owner or the authorities. A motion detection system can also monitor the activity of people or animals in a certain area and record their behavior or interactions. A motion detection system can also save energy by turning off lights or appliances when no movement is detected in a room or building. A motion detection system can also record events that occur in a specific time frame or location
based on motion triggers.
Object tracking is a technology that can track the position and movement of an object or a person in a video scene. Object tracking can be used for various purposes such as traffic management, crowd control, sports analysis, and wildlife observation. For example, an object tracking system can track the vehicles on a road and measure their speed, direction, and density. An object tracking system can also track the people in a public space and estimate their number, location, and flow. An object tracking system can also track the players in a sports game and analyze their performance, strategy, and statistics. An object tracking system can also track the animals in their natural habitat and study their behavior, migration patterns, and population dynamics.
Edge Computing – made possible with IP CCTV, enhances privacy, bandwidth consumption and security. Since footage is recorded directly at the camera, there is also reduced latency detected on the recordings.
Security has taken on greater significance now that we connect our cctv systems to the network.
Did you know that the US and some European countries prohibit the use of certain telecommunications and video surveillance equipment from Chinese companies such as Huawei, ZTE, Dahua, and Hikvision in US government facilities and contracts.
This ban affects not only the direct purchase of these products, but also any “substantial or essential component” or “critical technology” that is part of a system using them.
It is suspected that many such devices contain components that present potential cyberattacks, espionage, or sabotage by foreign adversaries over the networks to which these devices are attached. We have experienced situations locally, as well, that might suggest to us, that there is a built in capability for third parties to access this equipment without permission.
There is a secondary reason that these devices are banned. The manufacturers are accused of supporting their governments with mass surveillance intended to suppress minorities in those countries. So – it’s also a human rights issue.
The US department of defense has enacted the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to regulate the equipment that is installed in sensitive facilities. We have found the guidelines in the act particurlarly useful in avoiding identified equipment – that could present potential security vulnerabilities.
This is the main reason why we at Gensix Technology are moving towards installs of NDAA approved surveillance equipment.
Conclusion
As you can see, upgrading to an IP system can offer you many benefits in terms of image quality, scalability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, advanced features and reliability.
If you are interested in upgrading your CCTV system to an IP system, contact us today for a free consultation and quote. We have the expertise and experience to help you design and install the best IP system for your needs.
Gensix stores are https://cctv.durban , https://gates.durban , https://loadshed.durban with more to be launched in the future.
