IP-Based Video Surveillance Gets Easier - Other Options, Opportunities
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With D-ViewCam 2.0, users will be able to monitor
video as well as control and configure the cameras from any location that has
Internet or private network connectivity. D-ViewCam 2.0 also provides access to
a wide range of automated software settings and alert systems that make
security management more efficient. Ideally, administrators will want to
install D-ViewCam 2.0 on a dedicated system that offers plenty of disk storage.
What's more, that system should be placed in a secure location (just as a stop-motion
CCTV VCR should be) to prevent anyone from sabotaging recorded video.
Installing D-ViewCam is a straightforward process;
the most important consideration is making sure that ample storage space is
available for recorded video. Once installed, adding cameras to monitor
consists of little more than inputting the cameras' IP addresses and
administrative security settings. Once a camera is integrated into the
monitoring software, administrators will have access to the advanced settings
of the camera. In most cases, the cameras will be set up to detect motion and
to start recording when motion is detected. Administrators can also set the
cameras to automatically record video based on a schedule or a timed interval.
One nifty feature for pan and tilt cameras is the ability to set up
"patrol zones" to be continuously scanned. That feature not only
maximizes the field of view, but also gives the appearance that the camera is
being actively used, which proves to be a strong deterrent against theft or
vandalism.
DCS-3000
Series:
In some situations, pan and tilt functionality is
not needed for a security camera. For example, if someone wants to monitor a
doorway, cash register or drive-through window, a stationary camera is more
than adequate and, of course, less expensive. While the DCS-3000
series is very similar to the DCS-6600
series, there are some unique features. For example, the DCS-3420
offers improved low light sensitivity, making the camera suitable for nighttime
monitoring. With an MSRP of $499.99, the DCS-3420
also includes Wi-Fi and digital zoom capabilities. For users not needing
wireless support, D-Link offers the DCS-3220,
which has an MSRP of $299.99 All of the DCS-3000
series cameras have optional outdoor housings available. For those looking to
keep costs down, there is the DCS-45, which
retails for $99. The DCS-45 includes a
thermal barrier design to withstand temperature fluctuations and a flip-open
top for easy installation. For environments that may encounter drastic
temperature changes or severe weather, installers may want to use the DCS-60
enclosure, which retails for $299.99 and offers an integrated heater, blower
and power supply.
Opportunities:
Many solution providers may be wondering if there is
an opportunity here for their services. From a 10,000-foot view, IP video cameras
seem to be little more than a replacement for CCTV-based solutions, but nothing
could be further from the truth. Savvy solution providers will recognize that
IP surveillance technology creates multiple opportunities, including remote monitoring,
customized servers and network integration, and can also be a stepping stone
into other physical security technologies, such as building security systems
and server room monitoring. Add those opportunities to the high margins on the
equipment and the installation and deployment services and it becomes easy to
see how IP cameras can lead to a profitable path for solution providers to
follow.
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