A SIMPLE GUIDE TO IP CAMERA INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION

Internet Protocol (IP) cameras distinguish themselves from the rest of the cameras as they can send the data over the internet, ditching the cable connections. These cameras are gaining much popularity in recent times, mainly due to increasing features, quality, and applications and decreasing prices. High-resolution image quality is the mainstream feature of IP cameras. Clear and crisp video with suitable color mapping is needed by most consumers today.

Internet capabilities make these cameras flexible as different things like frame rate, focus, and activity can be customized using management software. This customization adds to more benefits, such as incrementally adding new cameras and connecting them using wireless networks, thus minimizing the wiring costs.

TWO PRIMARY FEATURES OF IP CAMERAS

Two-way Audio

Nowadays, many internet protocol cameras come with two-way audio support. Two-way audio provides an intercom facility and is beneficial at places that cover larger areas, like warehouses or factories. This audio mechanism can be integrated with the door lock to grant access to specific people after validating their identity. The audio features coupled with intelligent analytics can detect loud noises to keep everyone at ease. The system can identify sounds of yelling and gunshots, and security teams could be alerted immediately.

Video Compression

IP camera is capable of intelligent automation like turning on automatically whenever motion is detected or performing various analytical functions within the camera. Video compression is a unique feature associated with IP cameras. IP camera records in HD resolution resulting in large video files that take up much storage and cost a hefty amount to the enterprise. Since most of the recorded footage is the same and useless for the enterprise, it is smartly compressed according to the IP camera’s data to deliver the necessary footage to the user. This saves a lot of storage and time, which would otherwise be wasted on just scrolling the footage.

STEPS TO IP CAMERA INSTALLATION

IP camera installation requires specific steps to be followed. The type of hardware used, or the installation site may lead to some alterations in the process.

Installing network infrastructure

The first step of IP camera installation is the detailed mapping of the complete infrastructure, the location, and the type of cameras and devices to be installed.

Because depending upon this, a proper matrix of network and power cables is run through the walls and the ceilings to all locations, ensuring optimum coverage. Required provisions need to be made for different components.

Selecting the right camera

Cameras are the most significant element of any surveillance system. IP cameras have a wide range of variants fulfilling different criteria. Every camera is unique in its features and application. An intelligent choice must be made, keeping in mind the objectives of the organization. For example, poorly lit areas must be equipped with night vision or infrared cameras due to their ability to capture low light. Or ANPR/LNR cameras must be used where there is a necessity to read text or vehicle number plates.

Adding network switches

IP cameras require network cable to send data over the internet. So it is essential to add network switches which act as a hub for network connection. The size and number of network switch depend on the size of the project and the number of cameras to be installed. If the IP cameras are compatible with PoE (Power over Ethernet), then necessary network switch with PoE should be used. Power output should also be kept in mind while choosing network switches according to the devices connected as some switches have a power budget which limits the power to all the ports.

Installing camera mounting brackets

Every IP camera is made in different shapes and sizes and needs customized installation. So appropriate camera mounting brackets need to be installed. For some cameras, the frame and the camera require separate installation, while some have integrated mounting brackets. After installing the structures, the cameras are installed and connected with the required power and network cables.

Plan Ahead

Surveillance camera requirements tend to increase after the initial installation. After the first batch of cameras is installed, adding more cameras at other locations arises. For example, in a retail store, the cameras installed towards the shelves or cash counter may not seem enough. You could install additional cameras or swap existing cameras with wide-angle cameras facing the shelves to ensure maximum coverage. The need to install cameras in the storage rooms could also arise afterward.

Configuring IP camera to the network video recorder (NVR)

All the IP cameras installed need to send data to be monitored or downloaded by the user. Because of the IP camera’s networkability, they do not require a coaxial cable to transmit data. That is why every camera is configured wirelessly with the network video recorder over the internet or local area network (LAN). This is where every footage is managed and stored. NVR is responsible for converting the digital data into a form that could be viewed on the monitor. To ensure remote data visibility, the IT staff sets an IP address for cameras and the NVR.

Installing a video management system (VMS)

The video management system is an integrated platform where you can manage data from multiple cameras. The VMS provides intelligent access to all the footage from IP cameras where users can find any footage with advanced search options. As a centralized system, the VMS seamlessly administers servers, cameras, storage, and other devices in a surveillance system. This is where data from every camera is analyzed, and the user receives alerts in case of any event.

With multiple video management systems available, customers can choose whichever suits their requirements. The VMS software can be run on Windows or NVRs. In both cases, VMS records the footage from IP cameras and allows you to manage your IP cameras with flexibility. These provide notifications in case of motion detection, security breach, or IP camera failure.

Make final adjustments

Now that everything is set up, from network cables to IP camera and brackets to the video management system, it is time for final adjustments. Once the camera view is available on the monitor, you can adjust the field of view and the camera’s focus. Some cameras like PTZ allow to pan, tilt, and zoom the camera footage and be adjusted using VMS from the computer.

You can check remote viewing on various devices. And finally, the image quality can be reviewed and matched with the enterprise’s needs. Several video analytical features and intelligent alerts can also be customized using VMS to suit the organization’s demands. It is like setting a restricted area by drawing a line, and if anyone crosses that line, the user is notified by setting up an escalation matrix for alerts.

CONCLUSION

IP camera installation and configuration are quite complex and require a lot of technical know-how. But the IP camera system makes surveillance a lot easier afterward. If efficient surveillance management with peace of mind is your goal, then the IP camera system is the solution.

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