Myth No.7 ~ 'Remote monitoring of IP CCTV is not possible'

IP systems are designed to allow both active monitoring and passive viewing. In fact, IP is making remote
surveillance more feasible for all levels of application.

Remote monitoring is different from remote viewing. Remote viewing is the observation of live and recorded images on a PC, usually over the internet, and usually through the PC browser. Some devices may require FOC software downloaded on the PC for remote viewing. Open standard and proprietary software is also available for purchase with enhanced features and the facility to look at multiple remote devices on the same screen.

With IP, so many more things are possible. Although upload speeds are still limited over the internet, the
ability to view images remotely is a fantastic facility made possible by IP. It enables business owners check
the security of their premises remotely, and allows business managers to confirm that remote branches
are operating as they should without the need to travel there.

Remote monitoring is done at a remote central station using specialist software by companies geared up to
receive images against an alarm, and to respond accordingly. Images are generally uploaded to the
monitoring station against an alarm that an operator can review and record and then act on by contacting
the police, a private security company or the business owner as appropriate.

Because the monitoring station is continually monitoring its remote sites, it is often the first place where CCTV system faults are spotted - for example, if a camera is down and not transmitting images. Also with IP, it is possible to check camera and recorder settings, and perform fixes and upgrades remotely. In this respect, partnering a forward-thinking monitoring station not only enables your CCTV system to be monitored cost- effectively, but can also help with the maintenance of the system.