This document is most helpful for the site designer and on-site installation personnel.
What is an IP Camera?
An Internet Protocol Camera, commonly referred to as an IP camera, is a digital video camera much like a webcam, which transmits and receives data over a network or the internet. Unlike an ordinary webcam, it is a standalone unit with its own IP address that requires nothing more than a network connection in order to transfer video feeds and images. The IP camera connects to a network and it becomes accessible for local or external management or viewing.
How do I set up an IP Camera?
Setting up an IP Camera is relatively simple, requiring nothing more than a network connection to be shared along with the SpotAI appliance in order to integrate the cameras to Dashboard.
What are the benefits of an IP Camera?
Video feeds and recordings from an IP camera may be viewed from anywhere in the world via the internet, whether via pc, laptop, or mobile phone.
An IP Camera is a versatile security solution, requiring nothing more than a network connection. There is no need for coaxial cables, a computer station, or even wired electricity. They can be used as a temporary or permanent solution and relocated as and when required.
IP cameras are available for both indoor and outdoor use, with both day and night functionality, and with the ability to pan or zoom either remotely or via operator command. Whether you require overt or covert security, there is an IP camera to suit.
Benefits of IP camera over analog technology include:
- Remote administration from any location.
- Digital zoom.
- The ability to easily send images and video anywhere with an Internet connection.
- Progressive scanning, which enables better quality images extracted from the video, especially for moving targets.
- Adjustable frame rates and resolution to meet specific needs.
- Two-way communication.
- The ability to send alerts if suspicious activity is detected.
- Lower cabling requirements.
- Support for intelligent video.
Modern IP Camera types
Fixed/Box Style Security Camera
A Fix/Box Style camera is a standalone camera. The name is derived from the shape of the camera.
Benefits:
- Allows for customization of the lens, camera, and housing to fit the needs of the installation.
- Offers many lens options, including varifocals and fixed.
Features:
- Functions like any other camera.
- Can be used in Outdoor Environmental Housings or for Indoor mountings if aesthetics are not a concern.
Dome Security Camera
A dome camera is a combination of camera, lens, and ceiling mount packaged in a discreet dome shape.
wide dynamic security camera.
Benefits:
- Modern designs, and compact in appearance. Available in vandal-resistant domes and housings.
Features:
- Functions like any other camera but comes in a dome-shaped housing.
- Is well-suited for environments that tend to get dirty, like kitchens and warehouses.
- Typically available in indoor or outdoor housings.
PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) Security Camera
A PTZ camera contains mechanical controls that allow the operator to remotely pan, tilt, and zoom the camera.
Benefits:
- Focuses on areas of interest.
- Auto Track movement.
- Survey a wide area of interest and zoom in to detail.
Features:
- The camera’s live view controls movement via joystick or software.
- Can automatically run patterns or turn to a preset position.
Bullet Security Camera
A bullet camera is a combination of camera, lens, and housing packaged in a bullet-style body.
Features:
- Commonly includes IR illuminators.
- Weatherized and sealed enclosures decrease the need for servicing.
- Small footprint.
Benefits:
- Requires no separate housing or lens.
- Good for low-light situations
- Great for capturing fast-moving objects and license plate recognition
Thermal Security Camera
A thermal camera uses thermal imaging to produce surveillance footage in dark or harsh environments, and body temperature scans for healthcare or travel sites,
Benefits:
- Detect people and objects in smoke, haze, dust, and light fog.
- Works in all light condition environments.
Features:
- It uses heat temperature analysis in order to differentiate objects and people.
- It measures temperature changes in a wide variety of use case scenarios.
Fisheye 360 view camera
known for their ultra-wide-angle lens, are capable of providing video surveillance with dynamic viewing angles. They are extremely versatile since they can be used anywhere there is a flat surface and in any condition on most modern Outdoor/ Indoor models.
Benefits:
- Flexible Viewing Angles: 180° fisheye cameras and 270° fisheye cameras provide wide, panoramic views to cover large areas. Typically used for coverage across vast horizontal areas, fisheye cameras are mounted on a wall or, in some cases, a ceiling to provide a wide overhead view of an area.
Features:
- Weatherproof: Fisheye cameras are useful as outdoor cameras as they can provide wide-viewing angles, which is helpful outside of buildings, in parking lots, or in open areas like fields. To find an outdoor waterproof security camera, look for an outdoor fisheye camera that carries a waterproof IP67 or IP66 rating. Many security vendors also provide outdoor fisheye cameras that include integrated temperature gauges and heaters so cameras can operate in extreme temperatures.
- Tamper Resistant: With many having a dome-shaped body, fisheye cameras are a great option for a tamper-proof security camera. When selecting a fisheye camera with the highest resistance to damage, look for fisheye cameras carrying anything from an IK08 to IK10 vandal-proof rating. Many tamper-resistant fisheye cameras will carry both a high IP and IK rating, helping protect against both harsh weather conditions and impact.
Please see the SpotAI KB for Entry-level-Surveillance-IP-Camera-suggestion
and Outdoor-Camera-Installations-Best-Practices
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