Basics

PoE (Power over Ethernet) is the name of a number of methods that allow for powering network devices through UTP/FTP cables. This way it is possible to power devices such as cameras, phones, switches, access points, etc.

A hard drive is a key element of any CCTV system. Its parameters are crucial for the quality and reliability of camera video recording. HDDs employed for monitoring purposes work under conditions different than those used in PCs.

Video monitoring devices can be easily classified into a wider range of products that can form the Internet of Things (IoT). Many devices used in everyday life, such as TV sets, refrigerators or washing machines with embedded electronic systems and equipped with network interfaces can process and transfer data via network connections.

The use of thermal imaging cameras is no longer limited to buildings or installations critical to the defense of a country, or scientific applications. Cameras of this kind are employed to monitor unlit areas with dense vegetation, various processes in factories, power plants, oil and gas installations, at airports, etc. The best results can be achieved by creating systems consisting of optical and thermal cameras. This is due to different principles of operation and diverse forms of the generated images. An important part of such systems is image analysis. Thermal imaging cameras used for monitoring purposes usually have essential tools for image analysis, such as motion detection and detection of temperature changes beyond a preset range.

The development of IP CCTV systems was heavily hampered by the lack of compatibility of devices and low degree of flexibility in terms of future expansion. The users were not able to choose products from different manufacturers, not to mention the integration with other systems. ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is an open industry forum aimed at coordinating efforts to set common, global standard for IP CCTV systems.

Currently, H.264 compression has become a standard in digital video recorders (DVRs). The most advanced devices enable the user to control the compression ratio and many parameters of the video stream injected into the network. To understand the impact of the changes and the allowed ranges, the users should know the general principles of this video compression method.

When selecting a model of a camera we are usually interested in possibility of adjustments to various operating conditions. Of course, more advanced models have more capabilities, simpler devices keep some parameters fixed. However, in order to be able to take full advantage of the adjustments, please refer to their technical data and user manuals. We are here discussing a number of typical settings having an impact on the quality of the image, both positive and negative. Such knowledge will help you achieve the best practical results of the camera operation. The impact of changes in camera settings will be demonstrated for ACTI cameras, but the rules apply to other types of cameras from different manufacturers.

Translation of the domain name into the set of numbers is performed by the appropriate DNS server, to which the computer sends a request for the translation of the address. After receiving the response with the numeric address, the computer connects to the relevant computer/server.

Improper power supply is often the main reason of faulty operation of CCTV system.