Closed Circuit Television Systems (CCTV) and video monitoring and surveillance systems are becoming more common in offices, homes, city streets, banks and shopping malls. So where did these all-seeing monitoring, recording, access tracking security systems originate and why do we need them, and how does digital technology play a part in monitoring and surveillance?

CCTV actually dates way back to the 1950s but advancements in the 1970s gave rise to analog recording systems together with solid state cameras. There were no wireless systems back then so cameras were connected via cables to a multiplexer. The signals would then be fed to a recording device (usually a VCR) and/or monitor(s). A multiplexer is a device that allows the operator to cycle through each camera on the system one by one. There are several disadvantages with this type of system. The fact that a monitoring system is often centralized lends itself as being a single point of failure with the infrastructure. As all CCTV cameras were cabled in, if they needed to be moved often a new cable run was needed. Back in the control room magnetic media was the medium of which the images were stored and were susceptible to magnetic discharge or static electricity discharge. Also, for the system to run successfully a lot of human intervention is required for carrying out tasks such as physically changing the tapes, monitoring and recording the sessions etc…..

Second generation systems consisted of UTP enabled cameras which are IP addressable. Although these systems were able to run on the existing cable infrastructure they still may require expensive equipment such a tape libraries but the costs for the main monitoring station are reduced. However, there is still a risk of the main monitoring station to be the single point of failure. A multiplexer is still utilized to connect many cameras but this time using UTP cable with the popular RJ45 network connector, similar to the one that can be found in every modern computer today. Existing cameras that use coaxial (unbalanced) cable can have their signals converted to twisted pair (balanced) cable.
The latest generation of monitoring and recording systems are fully digital which utilize hardware such as Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) with IP based cameras and PC/monitors. These have many benefits over magnetic tape VCRs media libraries such as higher quality and definition and easily searchable and instant accessible recordings together with offering improved scalability and expandability. No longer do humans need to change tapes as backups can be automatically scheduled. More data can be recorded due to advanced digital compression techniques and storage is now moving to more reliable network based hardware such as Network Attached Storage (NAS) and SAN (Storage Area Networks) that can offer redundancy thus eliminating any single point of failure. One of the powerful benefits of digital CCTV systems is that the images can be viewed not only anywhere within an organization that has a UTP network connection, but anywhere in the world, via the internet. And images can be viewed simultaneously. IP addressable cameras can be placed anywhere on an existing IP network infrastructure thus reducing cost and eliminating the need for separate cabling systems.

Andy Jones is a technology expert with a broad knowledge in security and surveillance. To read more tips and advice like the ones in this article, go to: http://www.homesecuritysystemsadvice.com

So you have installed a home security camera system at your home, or are planning to install one. That is great news, because you can start using your camera system to prevent problems as well as provide evidence if vandalism or theft occurs. But if you are currently in the market for a home security camera system, then you might want to consider some of the added features that are available. Many home security camera systems can provide you the ability to view your cameras while you are away from home over the internet. But it is important to look for certain things when you are considering a remotely viewable home security camera system.

The most important thing to consider when you are selecting a remote-viewable security camera system is the security of your system on the network. It is important to ensure that the system you have selected has the ability to set up a password protected user account, so that you can ensure that you will be the only one that has access to your system. After all, you don’t want someone else being able to watch you on your cameras.

Next, you should consider your internet connection…do you have a static IP address or dynamic IP address internet connection? If you do not know the answer to that question, then it is very likely that you have a dynamic IP address, because static IP addresses cost more on a monthly basis from your internet service provider. It is important to know this when selecting a home security camera system, because if you can avoid having to pay an extra $10-30 per month for a static IP address, then you can save a great deal of money in the long-run. So when you are selecting a remote viewable home security camera system or DVR, be sure to ask if it will work with a dynamic IP address. Most of the systems on the market will not work with a dynamic IP address, which is why our Alnet Systems PC-Based DVR Cards have become very popular for home security camera installations. This system has built-in support for the dynamic IP addresses, so that you can view your cameras remotely, without having to pay an extra monthly fee to your internet service provider.

Finally, look at the remote viewing options that the home security camera system or DVR offers you. The remote viewing ability of standalone and PC-based DVRs vary widely from basic Internet Explorer-ONLY remote viewing through a web browser, to more advanced PC-Client remote viewing that offer full-resolution access to your cameras, and even Windows Mobile PDA phone and Windows Mobile Smartphone remote viewing, like with our Alnet Systems PC-Based home security camera systems. With the PDA phone and Smartphone remote viewing, you are even able to connect in to view your live and pre-recorded video right from your cell phone, so that next time you are on the train and stressing out about whether or not you shut the garage door, you can know for sure in seconds.

The decision to install home security cameras is becoming an easy one in today’s society…but ensure when you do, that you select a system that can work for your needs. Consider the costs and remote viewing capabilities at the same time, because a cheaper DVR can sometimes cost you more in internet connection costs over the long run, while providing lower-quality recording at the same time. Let the remote access allow you to have better peace of mind, and stay more connected with your largest investment, your home.

As you may know, a digital video recorder server is used in DVR surveillance systems of large public places such as hospitals, sports stadiums, shopping malls, office, and office buildings. These security systems are so large that a machine should be powerful enough to handle as much as 64 video channels! Amazing, isn’t it? Here are some characteristics of DVR servers.

Operating System and Compression Algorithms

Most DVR servers are Linux-operated and they use H.264 video compression technology to provide real-time video recording and playback. Most machines can display video resolutions of up to 720 x 480. This means that your surveillance videos are clear and sharp. The number of channels that a digital video recorder server can handle varies on its design and use. Machines used in small stores can accept at least 8 channels, while those that monitor very large places can hold up to 64 channels. However, the graphical interfaces of some machines can only display 8 channels at a time, so you may have to scroll your way down to get to channel number 64.

Common DVR Server Features

No matter what the brand or make of a digital video recorder server, you should look for these necessary features: live recording and playback speeds of 480 frames per second (fps), digital watermarking, object count, motion detection, multi-channel display, CD and DVD burning, and pre and post alarm recording. The storage capacity of servers vary with its purpose and use. The longer the monitoring time, the larger disk storage you may need.

Cameras, Data Back-up, And Internet Connectivity

As mentioned before, an excellent digital video recorder server will always use the most advanced video compression algorithms for the clearest surveillance videos. If you are shopping for a DVR server, always ask if the machine has H.264 compression hardware. Also, most machines come with 18x DVD-RW drives so that you can burn those surveillance videos into DVDs. In terms of Internet connectivity, most servers have remote desktop features and TCP/IP protocols for local area networks (LAN) or wireless area networks (WAN). Any pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera today is compatible with any DVR server. Of course, most machines support multi-viewing protocols. Some can also set presets and running patterns for your security cameras.

Ventilation

Indeed, a digital video recorder server is a very sensitive machine. Some are even kept in climate-controlled rooms to make sure that the server does not exceed its temperature thresholds. You might be wondering why. Well, if the server crashes because of too much cold or heat, the whole DVR surveillance system will be completely paralyzed, defeating its purpose. The machine may have its own ventilating system, but the professionals will always tell you not to take any chances.

You can always find a different machine with features that are not mentioned here. But it comes with a higher price tag than your garden-variety DVR server. It is always good to evaluate and reassess your security needs so that you will be spending your money right.

Get a digital video recorder server and a video capture card for security cameras to get your remote DVR surveillance working. Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide.com today for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nahshon_Roberts

Are you looking for a great way to protect your home or place of business without having to spend a lot of money? Well, one of the best ways to do that would be using Dummy CCTV cameras. These are cameras that look real, but they are really just fakes. They are not really recording, but since people think they are, they usually get turned away by them. You may have seen these dummy cameras in a lot of the stores that you shop at. If you look on the ceiling, you will see that there are tons of black balls on the ceiling. Some of these are real cameras and some of them are not. However, since you can not tell which ones are real and which ones are fake, it makes you afraid of all of them, and this saves the company money, because they do not have to buy all real cameras. The fakes are, of course, cheaper.

The first thing to note about dummy CCTV cameras is that they are perfect to use outside your home. A lot of people want some kind of added security feature to their home, but it can be hard to afford something like that. This is where the fake cameras come in. Think of it from a person’s point of view that is robbing a house. If you come up on two houses and one has cameras on the front of it, you are more than likely going to go to the one that does not have cameras. There is a less chance that you will get caught that way. Also, the people breaking into houses think that if you have cameras on the outside of your house, then who knows what you have on the inside just waiting for them. It’s a good way to put the fear into someone without having to spend a lot of money.

People sometimes wonder why fake cameras work so good. Well, this has to do with the fact that everyone is afraid to be caught doing something bad. Although we all know that there are fake cameras out there, we never know which ones are real and which ones are not. Since there is always a chance that it could be real, it scares you into not attacking that place of business or that home. In a way, these dummy CCTV cameras are a great way to protect your family.

One thing is for sure, these cameras do start looking more and more real everyday. In fact, a lot of these cameras even use LCD lights in them to simulate the red light that comes on in a normal camera. Some of the cameras are even move in motion. This gives them the full affect of being real, but they are really all for show. The sales of these dummy cameras have grown by almost 40% over the last few years. This is because people are starting to see that these cameras are the way to go. You can save money and still get the protection that you need.

 
A security surveillance system is no good without a CCTV Monitor as you will not be able to view images the surveillance camera captures. Depending on the surveillance and how many cameras your system has will conclude the most important consideration which is size and resolution of the monitor.

Most 4 - 8 cameras systems are able to use a smaller monitor, but when you have more than 8 cameras (16-32) you want to increase the size and resolution of the monitor preferably to 1920 x 1080 and a contrast ratio to at least 1000:1. That is because a multiplexer splits a monitor into individual screens, so each camera angel is able to be viewed. You could image if you had 32 different camera angels to look at you would want a quality picture. Luckily, most multiplexers are built into a surveillance systems standalone DVR.

Resolution and contrast are not the only considerations when looking at a surveillance systems monitor, some additional steps need to be considered like…

Step 1

Be sure your monitor is water proof if it is going to be exposed to moisture.

Step 2

Consider a monitor that is as damage proof and strong as possible if your camera is going to be used in an area known for high crime rates.

Step 3

Consider a large monitor if one of your top goals is to deter criminal activity so that would-be-criminals immediately notice its presence.

Step 4

Be sure the monitor has a brightness setting if the camera is going to be used in the dark.

Step 5

Be sure the monitor is large enough for you to see clearly if the camera is going to be mounted some distance from you.

Welcome to Mount Right - Plasma/LCD Bracket Type Plasma/LCD Screen Size Plasma/LCD Major Brand Video Cables & Leads Best Sellers 50% OFF SUPER SALE e-commerce, open source, shop, online shopping. For more information please visit: - http://www.mountright.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Homer

]]> http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/22/types-and-uses-of-wall-mount-brackets/feed/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/21/night-vision-cameras-the-cost-of-home-security/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/21/night-vision-cameras-the-cost-of-home-security/#comments Fri, 21 Nov 2008 07:58:20 +0000 allcctv
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http://www.allcctv.info/?p=151 By Dean Caporella 

The use of night vision cameras continues to expand as home owners in particular realize the importance of maintaining total coverage of their property.

Night time conditions provide an ideal scenario for intruders to invade your space and steal your property but with the right equipment, they are kept under a watchful eye.

The other important use for night vision cameras is keeping an eye on children. Young infants can be monitored in virtual total darkness. In this article, we’ll examine some solutions for both the exterior and interior of your property.

Indoor Wireless Camera Coverage

The IR wireless Night Vison camera is ideal for indoor surveillance. At less than $300, it’s manoevrability makes it practical for keeping an eye on areas of the house which are difficult to survey with cabled cameras.

As mentioned above, keeping a close watch on infants especially during times when there are concerns about their health is always a challenge for parents. A wireless security camera with infrared capability can ease a lot of that concern.

Outdoor Night Vision Coverage

There are areas around most homes which are considered prime entry spots for intruders. During daytime conditions, there is less concern but when the sun sets, that concern will be heightened.

These “blind spots” can be monitored with night vision security cameras. When looking for the right camera, make sure it has weather resistant qualities. Security cameras such as the Weatherproof Day/Night Bullet Color Camera are serviceable in these situations especially with little natural light or some street lighting.

One of the important features to look at when selecting a night vision camera is it’s Lux rating. The closer to zero this is, the better it’s ability to perform in “lightless” conditions. A zero rating would mean it can see in total darkness.

How much should you spend on a camera with night vision ability? There is a suggestion you can get away with good performance for less than $300 however, make sure the quality is there.

There is no point in going to the trouble of extending your security camera coverage if you install inferior equipment. Go for good to high quality as this can only increase your peace of mind.

Want the top tips and tricks in buying and setting up security camera systems? Protect your home and business with the most informative home and business security camera system, reviews and advice. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dean_Caporella

]]> http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/21/night-vision-cameras-the-cost-of-home-security/feed/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/18/how-to-choose-a-dvr-card/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/18/how-to-choose-a-dvr-card/#comments Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:51:07 +0000 allcctv
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http://www.allcctv.info/?p=146 By Ryan Temple

Choosing the right DVR Card for a Surveillance System is not easy! You have invested a lot of time and money into your home or business and want to protect those investments. This is no different than buying home, vehicle, or life insurance. It gives you piece of mind.

Building a PC Based Surveillance System yourself or purchasing a preassembled one from a reliable vendor can get confusing! There are many DVR Cards on the market today and the goal is to find the card that is easy to use, but does not limit your options. Make sure that the Surveillance Vendor will give you at least a 1 year warranty and make sure that they offer technical support (not the manufacturer, but the company themselves). There are too many companies that repackage an item and ship it to you without having any technical expertise.

If you plan to purchase a DVR Card alone and build your own system, make sure it is a dedicated system, just for your Surveillance System. Any additional programs and software added to this system, the more likely it is to have problems.

Below are some key features to look for in purchasing a DVR Card. The right card can make the difference of catching a criminal and prosecuting them, or finding out your surveillance system did not record the event!

• Stable windows based DVR Card
• User friendly interface
• Browser based remote monitoring of video & audio
• Multi site simultaneous remote video monitoring via client software
• Easy point and click playback of recorded video
• Digital high resolution recordings for up to 16 channels at 240 frames per second simultaneously
• Digital audio recordings for up to 16 cameras simultaneously
• Adjustable recording format and video quality controls
• Adjustable recording resolutions and frame rates
• Remote search & playback via a browser or client software
• Live remote audio monitoring with two way audio communication
• Remote video monitoring via Smart Phones and PDA’s
• Point & click recording schedule setup for each camera individually
• Easily save video events to CD in AVI format
• Pan Tilt Zoom camera support [all major protocols supported]
• Sensor inputs & outputs for alarm component integration
• Four relay outputs for home automation integration
• Easy user management with multi level password protection
• Schedule or manually back-up data to removable storage devices
• Digital watermark technology
• Hardware watchdog

PCSurveillance.net has a systems engineer and multiple technicians available to help answer all of your questions. We specialize in helping clients and individuals design their own PC Based Surveillance System to solve their specific need. Ryan Temple is the Director of Operations for PCSurveillance.net. PCSurveillance has been serving integrators and manufacturing customized Surveillance Systems throughout the US since 2002. You can read more of Ryan’s articles at http://blog.pcsurveillance.net/ Ryan can be directly contacted at ryan@pcsurveillance.net Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Temple

]]> http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/18/how-to-choose-a-dvr-card/feed/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/11/standalone-dvr-home-security-camera-systems/ http://www.allcctv.info/2008/11/11/standalone-dvr-home-security-camera-systems/#comments Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:26:46 +0000 allcctv
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http://www.allcctv.info/?p=109 By Michael Dunteman 

With many different affordable home security camera systems on the market, a homeowner may have a difficult time trying to select a system that will suit their needs. Some of the systems on the market are PC-Based Systems. PC-Based Systems involve installing a DVR Card and software into your PC, and then the cameras will be recorded directly onto your PC’s Hard Drive.

With this type of system, your PC should be used only for recording the cameras, as DVR recording is a very processor and hard drive intensive application. The PC would also have to be left on continuously, otherwise recording would not occur. While these systems are very good, not every homeowner wants to leave a PC running constantly.

Standalone DVRs are a great alternative to a PC based system, and provides added benefits, allowing you to view your cameras right on your TV. This way, you can easily switch to the cameras while watching TV or even pull up the cameras in a Picture in Picture window. The Standalone DVRs even include an IR remote control, so that you can control your cameras’ recording right from your couch.

These Standalone DVR recorders are an excellent choice for many home security camera installations, providing ease of use, display on a television, control from an IR remote control and some even allow for remote viewing of your cameras over the internet. For a good quality system, consider Standalone DVR recorders to help you increase the security on your home.