The balance of the CCTV market is changing rapidly in favour of IP. Global manufacturers are now focusing all their efforts on IP rather than analogue.
The number of IP surveillance installs is growing rapidly, as is the number of integrators and distributors focusing on IP. There can be little doubt that the installed base, and infrastructure to support it, will soon escalate dramatically.
Why hasn’t take up been quicker? Simple market forces (not least the investment by manufacturers in earlier equipment) always act to slow the spread of new technologies. Knowledge, skills and support among system designers and installers also have to be built up. It takes time for any entrenched technology to be superceded. With this in mind, it is remarkable how quickly IP CCTV has spread.
As further proof, look at how much major corporations are now focusing on, and investing in, the networked security market, including IBM and Cisco. They will help to drive and educate the market. Consider also electronic giant Panasonic which has been a global leader in CCTV systems since the 1960s. Panasonic no longer undertakes research and development in analogue CCTV, and has committed its entire massive CCTV R&D budget to IP products and systems.
Monday, 30 August 2010
Monday, 23 August 2010
Myth No.14 ~ 'Upgrading IP systems is difficult and expensive'
It has become very common for analogue CCTV systems to be converted to digital, stage by stage. This is now a well-trodden path and it allows end-users to keep their existing hardware – from cameras to coaxial cable – and so reduce their costs.
End-users have often made a significant investment in analogue CCTV, and so not surprisingly opt for a phased transition to IP. They want solutions that combine both analogue and digital security technologies where possible.
Benefits such as remote accessibility, scaleability and cost-effectiveness can be achieved by integrating existing analogue equipment with products that provide the functionality of a digital system. In fact, nearly every analogue system - even the smallest – can potentially benefit from integration with digital technology.
Video servers enable existing analogue cameras to be put on to an IP network. In effect, converted analogue images can be sent over an Ethernet/IP network and viewed in the same way as video from networked IP cameras.
Sites looking to upgrade to IP technology will often have existing coaxial cable in place. Where this is the case, adapters can be used to run Ethernet data and power cost-effectively over the coaxial cable. IPSEC 2007 award winner Technetix, for example, states that “You can upgrade your existing analogue CCTV network to IP capability and reduce your installation costs and operational disturbance in the blink of an eye” with its adapt-x range of products.
End-users have often made a significant investment in analogue CCTV, and so not surprisingly opt for a phased transition to IP. They want solutions that combine both analogue and digital security technologies where possible.
Benefits such as remote accessibility, scaleability and cost-effectiveness can be achieved by integrating existing analogue equipment with products that provide the functionality of a digital system. In fact, nearly every analogue system - even the smallest – can potentially benefit from integration with digital technology.
Video servers enable existing analogue cameras to be put on to an IP network. In effect, converted analogue images can be sent over an Ethernet/IP network and viewed in the same way as video from networked IP cameras.
Sites looking to upgrade to IP technology will often have existing coaxial cable in place. Where this is the case, adapters can be used to run Ethernet data and power cost-effectively over the coaxial cable. IPSEC 2007 award winner Technetix, for example, states that “You can upgrade your existing analogue CCTV network to IP capability and reduce your installation costs and operational disturbance in the blink of an eye” with its adapt-x range of products.
Monday, 16 August 2010
Myth No.13 ~ 'IP is more expensive than analogue'
IP CCTV systems are a good financial bet. It is always more expensive to buy the latest technology and products – IP CCTV hardware is no exception – but this is only one factor. Add on the installation, operation and ongoing service costs, which are considerably lower, and a good economic case can be made for choosing IP.
IP cameras are slightly more expensive than comparable quality analogue cameras, but network recorders offering superior quality images can be less expensive than comparable DVRs. With smaller installations (e.g. £5k systems), IP system equipment costs can be perhaps 20% higher than analogue costs, but with medium and larger systems the cost difference disappears. (For example, on a £20k system, the price of hardware will probably be equal.) Even on smaller systems when the IP hardware costs more, the extra cost is not much for the additional futureproofing, better picture quality, improved ease of use, and excellent scaleability.
Trends in the ultra-competitive computer industry make it easy to predict that PC processing power and hard disk drives capacity will continue to increase rapidly, offering superb value for money. Network hardware will also continue to be highly competitive and an area where costs are likely to continue to fall with volume. Remember, however, to choose professional, ruggedised equipment for CCTV applications.
Take a longer-term view and ask: what is the total cost of ownership (TCO)? Panasonic makes the case that the greatest benefit of IP surveillance systems is their lower total cost of ownership, stating that “TCO is the life-cycle cost of an asset, which includes acquisition, setup, support, ongoing maintenance, service and all operating expenses. IP surveillance systems dramatically lower post-purchase installation, operation and maintenance costs, sharply lowering overall TCO.”
IP cameras are slightly more expensive than comparable quality analogue cameras, but network recorders offering superior quality images can be less expensive than comparable DVRs. With smaller installations (e.g. £5k systems), IP system equipment costs can be perhaps 20% higher than analogue costs, but with medium and larger systems the cost difference disappears. (For example, on a £20k system, the price of hardware will probably be equal.) Even on smaller systems when the IP hardware costs more, the extra cost is not much for the additional futureproofing, better picture quality, improved ease of use, and excellent scaleability.
Trends in the ultra-competitive computer industry make it easy to predict that PC processing power and hard disk drives capacity will continue to increase rapidly, offering superb value for money. Network hardware will also continue to be highly competitive and an area where costs are likely to continue to fall with volume. Remember, however, to choose professional, ruggedised equipment for CCTV applications.
Take a longer-term view and ask: what is the total cost of ownership (TCO)? Panasonic makes the case that the greatest benefit of IP surveillance systems is their lower total cost of ownership, stating that “TCO is the life-cycle cost of an asset, which includes acquisition, setup, support, ongoing maintenance, service and all operating expenses. IP surveillance systems dramatically lower post-purchase installation, operation and maintenance costs, sharply lowering overall TCO.”
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
Thermal Myth No.10 ~ 'Thermal imaging cameras are not suitable for recognition'
Thermal imaging cameras are not designed to allow the identification of individuals from their facial features or clothing – although they can see a surprising amount of detail. What they are excellent at doing is allowing recognition of potential threats by revealing details which are hidden to the human eye and to conventional cameras.
Their effectiveness starts a long way out, with the detection of potential targets delivered in all lighting conditions, and regardless of undergrowth and similar cover; a typical application is in border security, where they easily achieve a 2km surveillance range, allowing 4km spacing between cameras.
Closer in and the thermal camera will clearly show what the target object is – a person, a group of people, a vehicle etc. Closer still and clear details are revealed, showing what the person is doing, carrying and, to an extent, wearing.
For commercial security applications this provides all the necessary information for the appropriate response to be triggered – whether that be continued remote monitoring, remote warnings, or direct intervention.
The fact that thermal cameras cannot be used to positively identify individuals should be taken into account when designing the security system – and in some cases, where privacy is important, this may even be an advantage.
Exactly what your thermal camera will see, at what distance, depends on local conditions; the technology is well tested in the field and detailed technical advice is available from experienced manufacturers such as FLIR which will can be used to plan the most effective, layered security protection for any application.
Their effectiveness starts a long way out, with the detection of potential targets delivered in all lighting conditions, and regardless of undergrowth and similar cover; a typical application is in border security, where they easily achieve a 2km surveillance range, allowing 4km spacing between cameras.
Closer in and the thermal camera will clearly show what the target object is – a person, a group of people, a vehicle etc. Closer still and clear details are revealed, showing what the person is doing, carrying and, to an extent, wearing.
For commercial security applications this provides all the necessary information for the appropriate response to be triggered – whether that be continued remote monitoring, remote warnings, or direct intervention.
The fact that thermal cameras cannot be used to positively identify individuals should be taken into account when designing the security system – and in some cases, where privacy is important, this may even be an advantage.
Exactly what your thermal camera will see, at what distance, depends on local conditions; the technology is well tested in the field and detailed technical advice is available from experienced manufacturers such as FLIR which will can be used to plan the most effective, layered security protection for any application.
Monday, 9 August 2010
Myth No.12 ~ 'IT directors won't approve IP-based intallations on their networks'
The days of the sceptical or unhelpful IT director are fast disappearing. With security a board-level concern in most organisations, IT departments these days will support the addition of CCTV onto their networks, and will help make the systems a success.
Any IT Director or Manager worth his salt would understandably be uneasy about large amounts of CCTV data being added to existing PC networks without a good idea of network usage requirements. He or she would also be reluctant to give unqualified personnel access to any network containing sensitive business information. But although the IT Manager and the Security Manager can both be key in the planning and operation of the security system, in many companies the decision to invest in a surveillance system is taken at board level. This is because business risk management is seen as a board level activity, and CCTV is a tool that can reduce business risk.
Follow the manufacturer’s advice. Manufacturers have a vested interest in making IP systems work well, and good manufacturers offer advice on diverse topics such as managed switching and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).
As soon as you have more than a few cameras, put in a separate camera network. We have mentioned this
previously, but the advice bears repeating because it can help overcome any objections or concerns from IT managers.
Any IT Director or Manager worth his salt would understandably be uneasy about large amounts of CCTV data being added to existing PC networks without a good idea of network usage requirements. He or she would also be reluctant to give unqualified personnel access to any network containing sensitive business information. But although the IT Manager and the Security Manager can both be key in the planning and operation of the security system, in many companies the decision to invest in a surveillance system is taken at board level. This is because business risk management is seen as a board level activity, and CCTV is a tool that can reduce business risk.
Follow the manufacturer’s advice. Manufacturers have a vested interest in making IP systems work well, and good manufacturers offer advice on diverse topics such as managed switching and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).
As soon as you have more than a few cameras, put in a separate camera network. We have mentioned this
previously, but the advice bears repeating because it can help overcome any objections or concerns from IT managers.
Tuesday, 3 August 2010
Thermal Myth No.9 ~ 'Thermal imaging cameras are damaged by solar radiation'
It’s true that some lower quality thermal cameras may be damaged by the sun – either temporarily or permanently - but not FLIR’s units. These incorporate Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detectors which are immune to permanent damage, even when directly viewing the sun in normal video applications. Some minor temporary effects on image quality may be observed, because of the very high amount of thermal energy radiated by the sun. However mechanisms are incorporated which minimise these effects (including filters, anti-reflective coatings and improved electronics in the detectors). As a result, any temporary ‘ghosting’ which follows direct viewing of the sun will quickly disappear without any intervention from the operator.
It should be remembered that cheaper thermal cameras, which are not as well made, may not be immune to the effects of solar radiation – and even good quality units which do not use Vandium Oxide will be vulnerable. In fact some suppliers advise users not to point their cameras directly at the sun. In the real world this is often unavoidable, therefore the best advice is not to risk using units which are susceptible to solar radiation damage.
It should be remembered that cheaper thermal cameras, which are not as well made, may not be immune to the effects of solar radiation – and even good quality units which do not use Vandium Oxide will be vulnerable. In fact some suppliers advise users not to point their cameras directly at the sun. In the real world this is often unavoidable, therefore the best advice is not to risk using units which are susceptible to solar radiation damage.
Monday, 2 August 2010
Myth No.11 ~ 'You have to be an IP specialist to install and maintain IP systems'
There need be no mystery to IP CCTV, especially with the training courses now available and the practical
support provided by the best manufacturers. On the contrary, for any competent installer, IP gives exciting
opportunities to deliver better surveillance solutions to more customers than ever before.
Many of the rules of traditional CCTV system design and installation still apply. Although IP offers fantastic
new opportunities in terms of image quality, accessibility and ease of use, for a system to be effective, the same security and surveillance issues need to be addressed, irrespective of the technology platform on which the system operates. What is the purpose of the system? Where and how will the cameras be located? What is the correct angle of view? How will the camera signals be transmitted? What information should be recorded and archived? How will the system operate? These are all questions that CCTV people deal with every day.
Although the security and surveillance issues remain the same, the technology platform on which the CCTV system operates is clearly changing from analogue to IP. The challenge for traditional CCTV installers is to find ways to get up to speed with IP networks and use valuable existing CCTV installation skills on an IP platform. Leading CCTV training companies, such as Tavcom, offer a number of courses covering IP CCTV.
Another trend in the CCTV industry, running parallel to the move to IP, is the move from ‘products’ to ‘systems’. When a manufacturer takes a system approach, there is a much greater chance that the component parts of the system will be fully compatible and aesthetically pleasing, both of vital importance to system users. When looking for a core brand on which to base your solution, look for a manufacturer with a track record of quality and reliability, and who has a commitment to systems and IP. It takes experience and real commitment. Choose wisely: very few manufacturers can offer all of the above.
Once you have decided on your core brand, look for a supplier who can add real value. Good suppliers should be able to offer third-party products that complement the core solution and fill in the gaps. They should be experts in their field, offering solid technical support, along with design and commissioning advice.
support provided by the best manufacturers. On the contrary, for any competent installer, IP gives exciting
opportunities to deliver better surveillance solutions to more customers than ever before.
Many of the rules of traditional CCTV system design and installation still apply. Although IP offers fantastic
new opportunities in terms of image quality, accessibility and ease of use, for a system to be effective, the same security and surveillance issues need to be addressed, irrespective of the technology platform on which the system operates. What is the purpose of the system? Where and how will the cameras be located? What is the correct angle of view? How will the camera signals be transmitted? What information should be recorded and archived? How will the system operate? These are all questions that CCTV people deal with every day.
Although the security and surveillance issues remain the same, the technology platform on which the CCTV system operates is clearly changing from analogue to IP. The challenge for traditional CCTV installers is to find ways to get up to speed with IP networks and use valuable existing CCTV installation skills on an IP platform. Leading CCTV training companies, such as Tavcom, offer a number of courses covering IP CCTV.
Another trend in the CCTV industry, running parallel to the move to IP, is the move from ‘products’ to ‘systems’. When a manufacturer takes a system approach, there is a much greater chance that the component parts of the system will be fully compatible and aesthetically pleasing, both of vital importance to system users. When looking for a core brand on which to base your solution, look for a manufacturer with a track record of quality and reliability, and who has a commitment to systems and IP. It takes experience and real commitment. Choose wisely: very few manufacturers can offer all of the above.
Once you have decided on your core brand, look for a supplier who can add real value. Good suppliers should be able to offer third-party products that complement the core solution and fill in the gaps. They should be experts in their field, offering solid technical support, along with design and commissioning advice.
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