Critical connectivity can be complex which is why IP camera management platforms play a crucial role in wider CCTV and security infrastructure – ensuring smooth running performance and maintenance, writes Camilla Kirkham, Director of Sales, Security & AV, at the Manchester-based distributor Nimans.
Cameras are becoming ever more sophisticated with 4K resolution, improved night vision and temperature detection part of a more high quality overall experience. So it’s vital installers adopt technology that makes it easy to install and manage IP camera networks using the latest camera management functionality. There are many challenges when designing IP surveillance environments. How many networking devices (IP cameras, switches and computers) are required, what resilience is needed and what type of transmission will be used, are key criteria.
IP camera management systems allow the switch to detect, configure and monitor the health of any connected IP cameras or NVR systems that are ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) compatible. This allows installers to easily locate and manage the cameras, view camera video, and get alerts on any cameras which stop responding. Simplifying the setup and ongoing maintenance of your estate of cameras is crucial.
Through a web interface, you can view the video feed of connected IP cameras, select from the list or search for a specific camera. This gives you one convenient central place from which you can view video of any connected camera. Technology such as such as DrayTek’s VigorSwitch range provides the ability to receive email alerts if a camera stops responding, with a snapshot of the camera’s last output to easily locate the camera. A device check system can monitor whether IP cameras or NVR systems are responding by ‘pinging’ them.
If there’s no response, the system can send an email alert out. In addition, with Device Check on a PoE, the switch can automatically power cycle the affected camera when problems occur, resolving issues with a freezing camera without requiring manual intervention. If a camera goes offline or port throughput is too high (which could result in lost video), the switch can send out an Email alert with the last-seen snapshot from the camera that’s stopped responding.
With Camera Snapshots, you can see what the camera last displayed, allowing you to more easily locate the affected camera and troubleshoot any problems it may have, such as a disconnected cable or water ingress. Device management is important too. Configure IP camera settings such as IP address, ports, security and more, all controlled through a switch interface. Furthermore, scan for connected IP Cameras and NVR systems for a visual network topology and you can set up Groups to manage IP cameras and NVR (network recorder) across separate VLANs (local area networks).
The CCTV industry continues to evolve at a rapid rate and choosing a fluid, flexible and high performance platform underpins the whole network, and your overall success.
