Deploying Video over IP Network Cameras

Traditional surveillance (CCTV) cameras are usually connected to a monitor by means of dedicated coaxial cabling. If a multiplexer is added, it’s then possible to display images from several cameras on a single monitor. It is also relatively easy to add one or two more monitors within a building. But viewing images from additional outside locations becomes progressively more complicated, because dedicated cable is required to add a new monitor or camera to any existing system. What’s more, CCTV users must always consider how to store the large quantities of magnetic tape that result.

In contrast, network cameras are designed with built-in video servers and Ethernet connectivity, enabling their images to be viewed from any computer connected to a local area network, over a private intranet, or even the Internet. A network video camera can be configured to provide the entire Internet community with access to its images via a web site, or conversely to provide restricted viewing access to a limited number of authorized people.
Why use networked video over IP technology?
Because it makes it possible to access up-to-the-second images at any time from any computer anywhere. The images can be stored at remote locations for convenience and/or security, and the Internet can be used as carrier for the information. A camera can be placed almost anywhere.

There are no limitations tied to physical inputs or frame grabbers; the product can be connected to a LAN, xDSL, modem, wireless adapter, or mobile phone. Network video images can be received from any location that calls can be received on a mobile phone. And network video technology is highly cost-effective, since it doesn’t even require a new PC to make the camera usable. Any existing computer can be used for viewing video images; there is no need to buy dedicated video monitors. With an existing network infrastructure capable of video transmission, no separate coaxial video cables are required.