Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Wireless IP Cameras

Wireless IP Cameras

Choose the wireless camera system that's best for you.

wireless-concept-illustrationWhen you can’t run network wire to the IP camera, you can use a wireless camera system.  Some cameras come with a built in radio, but any IP camera can be connected to a separate wireless radio.   Cameras with the built in radios are usually used indoors, while the cameras that use separate wireless radios are usually used outdoors.   Separate radios provide long range capability (over 2 miles), especially when using a directional antenna.
Wireless connections can use either Wi-Fi radios with a dedicated connection between two points, or 3G / 4G that uses the telephone wireless network.


Built-in Wireless Radio CamerasTop

Sony SNC-CX600
Sony wireless ip cameraThis indoor 1280 x 720 HD Small form IP Camera, has an optional wireless connection. It includes a fixed 120 degree horizontal view lens.  With built in speaker and MIC you can have a conversation from your computer. It has wide dynamic range (60dB+ WDR), so it can be used in challenging lighting conditions.

If you plug it into the network it uses PoE for power.

Wireless IP camera works best when there is line of site to the access point that's no more than 100 ft away.

External Wireless RadioTop

Using a separate wireless radio:  You can connect any IP camera to a wireless radio.  Usually we use two radios to make the connection.  One radio is next to the camera and the other is at the receiving point.  These wireless camera systems are usually used outdoors because of the extended range, but they certainly can be used indoors.  No matter where you use it, they work best when there is a clear line of site.

High performance WiFi wireless radios have a range of many miles (or kilometers).  They include directional antennas and high transmission power that results in higher bandwidth and security.

Wireless-with-2-cameras on pole

There are a variety of radios and antennas available. Some of the radios have the antenna built in to the radio while others use a separate antenna.  Most radios use frequencies of either 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz.  There are also other frequencies such as 900 MHz and 4.9 GHz available as well.   We usually recommend 5.8 GHz radios for IP camera applications.  In remote applications where there may be limited power, it is best to select radios that use the least amount of power.
Our complete wireless IP camera systems include the radio with directional antenna, camera, power system, and surge protectors, as well as network switches with PoE, special environmental enclosures and mounting brackets. Everything is designed for compatibility with power, electronics and connectivity.
One or more IP cameras can be included in the wireless system solution. They can be fixed or PTZ type cameras.  Camerasare selected depending on your requirements and objectives.

The power can be provided by local AC power or by adding a solar power system.  Here are some examples of radios:

TVIP-5.8 GHz Series


wireless-radio-with-antenna
TVIP-L5-16
This Tri-Mode outdoor unit includes an antenna and supports standard 48 VDC PoE operation. The versatile and low-cost units can be configured as an Access Point (AP), Point-to-Point (PxP), or Customer Premise Equipment (CPE).  The all-in-one design features an integrated 16dBi directional panel antenna, and comes complete with  POE injector suitable for 48VDC operation, yielding the lowest total cost of  ownership (TCO). Also available is a unit that supports an external antenna for more demanding applications.

Features include:
  • Quality of Service (QoS) with data rate up to 54 Mbps
  • 7 watts power required
  • Range with line-of-site up to 5 miles
  • 5, 10 & 20 MHz channel width selectivity
  • Web-based administrative interface - For quick and easy manageability
  • Router mode with built-in DHCP Server/Client
  • Security: WEP, WPA, MAC Authentication

TVIP-5Plus-24
This is a more powerful radio that includes an integral 24 dBi directional antenna. The ruggedized weatherproof all‐in‐one design meets IP67 and NEMA Type 4X environmental standards, requiring minimum installation and maintenance costs in conditions ranging from ‐60 C to +60 C. With line of site it is possible to achieve a range of up to 15 miles. Features include:
  • IEEE 802.11a Compliant
  • Range up to 15 miles with line-of-site between radios
  • 7 watts power required
  • AP/PxP/CPE Wireless Modes
  • Up to +23dBm Transmit Power with Adjustable Output
  • Dual Ethernet Ports Tunneling Protocol Support (VPN, PPTP, RSA, etc)
  • Alignment LEDs (in CPE mode)
  • Configurable in Point-to-Point, Access Point or Client modes

Other configurations include
  • Long range antennas
  • Omni antennas
  • Mesh Networks
  • 900 MHz radios
  • Mounting brackets and hardware

Each situation may require a different type of radio and antenna, so please contact us for help selecting the right one for your application.


TVIP-900 Series

Wireless 900 MHz radio
900 MHz
Operating in the 900 MHz ISM band, the TVIP-900 Series have better non line-of-site properties than the higher frequencies and have the same features as our other broadband wireless networking equipment.
These are integrated fully functioning radios, which means these units can be configured as an Access Point, a Point to Point Bridge, or a Client Adapter (CPE).
Dual Ethernet ports make it easy to connect to camera and power.


3G / 4G Wireless Broadband Solutions

Cell-Tower
These 3G / 4G modems make use of the telephone communication systems allowing you to send video back to your central location when WiFi channels are not available.   We will help you with the equipment you need based on your local carrier. These modems can automatically select an alternate communication channel such as WiFi or wired broadband solution to maintain a reliable and redundant connection.
Main Features
  • Integrated 4G LTE, HSPA+, WiMAX, and 3G EVDO models (no modem option available)
  • Ruggedized metal housing
  • External 3G/4G modem antennas
  • Advanced routing and security features including VPN, VLAN, WAN Affinity, and more
  • Additional advanced security and routing features with an Extended Enterprise License
  • Cloud-managed

Contact us for more details as well as pricing on all the models available


Solar Power Systems Top

solar-ip-camera-wireless-system-450When you're out in the wild and don't have any power or network, you can use this system to power and communicate remote video to your central video recording system. It can use WiFi or 3G / 4G phone communication systems. The system includes the power system, the IP camera system, the communication system and even the video recording system.

The advanced battery charging system protects against over-charging or over-discharging the batteries. All the power and network distribution system are located inside a sealed waterproof enclosure. Mounting brackets for pole or wall make it easy to install. Systems are available with 30 W to over 200 W solar panels.

Select from a wide variety of IP cameras. Whether you need a box, bullet, dome, fish-eye, or PTZ camera; we will help select the right camera for your application.
Select video management software (VMS) that runs on your own Windows computer or a complete Network Video Recorder (NVR) that includes the computer and software in one package. The recording system can be located at the remote site or at your central command center.

These are just examples that will give you an idea of what's available. We know that your system will be different.  That's why we provide the free engineering and consulting so you will get exactly what you need. If you need help just contact us for help.

Understanding the IP Cameras

Understanding the IP Cameras

Understanding the IP Cameras

Understanding the IP Cameras:

IP cameras are actually similar to the older CCTV analog camera. They consist of a lens, sensor, and amplifiers. The IP camera adds a computer and network interface that connects the camera to the network. Take a look at our video about how the IP camera works.
The sensor of the camera defines the resolution, but it is just as important to select the right megapixel lens. Take a a look at our article about Selecting the Right Resolution and Lens.
All optical type cameras require some light to operate. Some do include IR illuminators, but you can always add standard lighting when required. Take a look at the key specifications to consider.
Amplification and signal processing are used to maximize how the video looks. The circuits adjust the brightness and contrast of the video. The camera circuits improve the dynamic light range of the video. Some cameras add additional processing to provide wide dynamic range of 120 dB or more.
Blogs: Our blogs provide technical advice and descriptions about how things work. Take a look at our Technical Blog, and Virginia's Blog that provides a simple review of how things work. The latest article "What Video Cameras Learned from TV" takes you through the history of the video camera.
Videos: We have published a number of videos about IP camera technology. The latest video describes, "How the Video Camera Works", and "How the IP Camera Works"

Select the Best Camera for your Application
The IP camera chart compares the features and benefits of many of the IP security cameras available. Pricing examples are provided, to give you some idea of the cost to performance ratio of the camera.
We Can Help
Not only do we sell IP cameras and security equipment at the best price, we are also an engineering and consulting company, and provide design assistance at no charge. It may be helpful to visit our Camera Buyer's Guide, to help you pick the right IP camera.

Ocularis Screens
A camera System is More than Just the Camera
Take a look at the some of the other things you may need to complete your Network AttachedIP Camera system. To learn more about what the camera specifications mean take a look at our technical note about understanding the "Specifications for the Latest IP Cameras".
More Resources
Technical articles help you understand the technology as well as providing product comparisons.
Contact us for assistance in designing your system. We assure that the cameras are compatible with the video management software, the lens, the enclosure your computer and storage.

IP Cameras
Important specifications to consider when selecting an IP camera:
Resolution of the camera will determine the detail you can see in a specific field of view. If you want to identify a person's face or license plate number you may need a higher resolution megapixel camera. We will help you determine the right camera for each location.
Light sensitivity will determine how well the camera can see in darkness. For example a camera with a 0.1 lux sensitivity can operate in full moon light.
The Lens is a critical part of the camera system especially for a megapixel camera. Learn more about Lenses for IP cameras
Compression Note that some cameras use M-JPEG compression, others use MPEG-4 or H.264 compression and some can use more than one. See the article "The Latest H.264 Compression" for more about compression schemes. The right compression will save bandwidth and storage, but can also affect the quality of the video.
Technical articles help you understand the technology as well as providing product comparisons.
System Notes:
Always make sure the cameras are supported by the Video Management Software or NVR. We know that one IP camera doesn't fit all; we design each each system to fit exactly what you need.
Cameras can be integrated with other systems for access controlpaging and intercoms, audio recording and license plate recognition.
Contact us for assistance in designing your system. We assure that the cameras are compatible with the video management software, the lens, the enclosure your computer and storage.

Network Attached Cameras

There are many different products available and it can be confusing. IP camera systems include not only the cameras, they also include Video Management Software or NVRs, lenses, enclosures, network systems, and analytic software. Complete security systems integrate door access control, intercoms and IP cameras with appropriate video management software. Take a look at the components below, and then contact us for assistance. We will be happy to help assure you get everything you need.

AxisTop

209FD2

Fixed Dome type cameras

Dome cameras are available for indoor and outdoor applications. These cameras look nice, are protected from damage (especially the vandal resistant versions), and some have remote control lens adjustment making them very easy to install
The latest P33 series of cameras include improved light handling capability that includes wide dynamic range and very low light sensitivity.
P1346

Fixed Box Type Cameras

Box cameras provide the flexibility of using different lenses. There are models for just indoor applications and others that can be used outdoors. The outdoor ready models have the ability to operate in a wide range of lighting because they include auto-iris lenses. Pricing ranges from under $179 to over $1200 depending on performance, resolution, and functions
The new outdoor ready cameras are available in enclosures that are powered over Ethernet (PoE)
Axis-P5534

PTZ Cameras

There is a choice of economical or high performance Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) IP cameras to choose from. You can even get PTZ cameras with 2 megapixel resolution.
High performance PTZ are outdoor ready, powered by PoE, and provide up to 36X optical zoom with image stabilization.
AXIS is the number one manufacturer of IP cameras and systems. They provide excellent technical support and have a wide selection of cameras.
All the latest cameras support the new H.264 compression. This reduces storage and bandwidth requirements.
There is a selection of standard resolution and megapixel cameras. The latest 5 megapixel camera provides a resolution of 2560 x 1920 pixels.
All the new cameras, and even the outdoor models, are powered over Ethernet (PoE), reducing the wires required and making them very easy to install.
Take a look at the full line of Axis cameras.

BrickcomTop

Brickcom cameras

Brickcom cameras

Brickcom has a selection of cube, dome, bullet and other cameras. Besides the standard models that include PoE power, there are models that include wireless and 3G SIM card options.
Contact us for pricing
This new manufacturer provides excellent megapixel cameras with performance that compares favorably with IP camera from major manufacturers.
Brickcom specializes in megapixel IP cameras. There are a number of different cameras in this family and they all include free NVR software.

CanonTop

VBM40-200
The VB-M40 PTZ camera includes megapixel resolution and 20 X optical zoom

Canon

Canon just introduced some very nice cameras that take advantage of their lens expertise. They feature megapixel resolution with excellent low light sensitivity. Video quality compares well to the Axis and IQinvision megapixel cameras.
The new dome cameras include the unique ability to remotely adjust the pan, tilt, zoom and focus. This feature makes these fixed IP cameras very easy to set up. The installation time is dramatically decreased.
The video performance of these cameras is much better than many other brands. For example most of the cameras have low light sensitivity of 0.001 lux, which exceeds the performance of Sony, Axis or IQinvision.
Simple video analytics is also included. These cameras will notify you when an object is removed from an area, or if someone leaves a box in your lobby.
These are high end IP cameras with excellent features, but if you consider the cost of replacing a low cost camera the system price can be much lower. Take a look at our article,What is the Best Price to Pay for your Camera?

HikvisionTop

Hikvision cameras

Hikvision cameras

Who is Hikvision? Well if you live in China you would know all about them because they dominate the security camera market there.
When these IP cameras were first brought to our attention, we were skeptical about the quality and performance. Hikvision recently showed off their new products, we tested them and I have to say we were impressed by their performance. They added wide dynamic range and remote zoom and auto-focus lenses that dramatically improved their overall capability.
Contact us for pricing
There are a wide selection of cameras including, box, dome, bullet and PTZ IP cameras. The cameras range in price from around $250 for the "ValueSeries" to the high performance 5 megapixel outdoor dome camera with the remote adjustable lens at under $1,000.
Hikvision also has some very nice Network Video Recorders (NVR) systems. The recorders also support some other camera manufacturers such as Axis, Canon, Sony and other cameras that are compatible with ONVIF

IPXTop

IPX-DDK-1000

IPX-DDK-1000

If you are looking for an economical camera for home or small business, this is a good choice. The DDK-1000 is rated as an indoor/outdoor camera, but is probably better for indoor applications because it only has a 1 lux low light sensitivity. This is an ultra-compact dual-codec network camera with a Sony
Wfine progressive ¼” CCD image sensor. More
This new manufacturer provides cameras with performance that compares favorably with the Vivotek cameras. Provides excellent cost - performance.
IPX-DDK-1700

IPX-DDK-1700

2 megapixel IP Camera
This day/night camera provides better resolution, back light compensation and lower light sensitivity (0.01 lux) than the DDK-1000 above. It includes an 3 - 8 mm lens, and other lenses are available.
It's a day/night camera, with the excellent low light sensitivity and compares favorably with the Sony megapixel cameras. It can be used outdoors with an environmental enclosure. More
There are a number of megapixel cameras available from this manufacturer.
IPX-DDK-1700D

IPX-DDK-1700D

This vandal resistant 2 Megapixel dome camera includes built-in IR illumination allowing it to see in the dark for a distance of 60 ft. It can be used indoors or outdoors.>
The camera includes a 3 - 9 mm vari-focal auto-iris lens and compares favorably with dome cameras from major manufacturers. More.

IQinvisionTop

IQ 700 750 150
Alliance MX 120
If you want to be able to identify a person's face or license plate number in a field of view up to 50 ft, you will need a high resolution camera. IQinvision is known for their high resolution cameras.
There are indoor as well as outdoor ready box and dome cameras available that are powered over Ethernet (PoE).
Pricing starts at under $350. Contact us for pricing on all the models available
These IQeye cameras provide up to 5 MPixel resolution. The cameras are available with a selection of megapixel lenses. Cameras have very good low light performance. This camera manufacturer provides excellent technical support.
Features include
  • Optional Embedded recording software with quad-view camera display
  • Built-in Power over Ethernet - IEEE 802.3af ready (or select optional power adapter or Power Over Ethernet injector)

JVCTop

VNC20U

JVC cameras

As an example the VN-C20UL Includes Auto-Iris 3.5-8mm lens for outdoor use (requires enclosure to use outdoors)>
The JVC VN-C20U is also good for indoor applications. You must select the optional lens required. )
JVC has added a number of new cameras to their line-up. They include megapixel cameras.
The latest cameras feature "fine adjust" focusing .

PanasonicTop

WVNS324

Panasonic cameras 

Panasonic has been expanding their range of IP products. See the full line of Panasonic cameras and contact us for pricing.
Panasonic provides a wide selection of hybrid cameras that have both analog and network connections. They also have a number of dome and PTZ cameras that provide very good performance.

SamsungTop

samsung ip cameras

Samsung Cameras

Samsung has a full line IP megapixel cameras that attach to your network. They have been making quite an impression in the security and surveillance market because they have excellent performance and pricing.
Samsung Box IP Camera

Box Cameras

These box IP cameras are great for applications that require special lenses and enclosures. The high performance models include remote focus and wide dynamic range.
Samsung Bullet IP Camera

Bullet Cameras

Bullet cameras with IR illuminators are easy to install and have many advanced functions such as remote zoom and focus lenses. All these IP cameras are powered using PoE.
Samsung Dome IP Camera

Dome Cameras

Dome IP cameras are unobtrusive and nice looking. They are easy to install. The high end models include remote zoom and focus lenses.
Samsung megapixel PTZ IP camera

PTZ Cameras

Samsung's new 2 megapixel PTZ IP camera provides amazing long range viewing. It far surpasses the similar Axis 2 megapixel camera which only has a 20X zoom lens versus the 32X zoom lens provided by the Samsung camera.

SonyTop

Video Management Software
Full line of Sony IP Cameras
Fixed cameras include megapixel resolution and bullet cameras with IR illuminators.
DH180-160
Dome cameras include megapixel resolution and IR illuminators.
RX550-160
New PTZ IP camera systems have megapixel resolution.
The performance of Sony's new cameras have improved dramatically. They recently introduced cameras with the option of wide dynamic range, making them very good in challenging lighting applications. The latest cameras include multiple compression options (H.264, MPEG-4 or M-JPEG)
Select from fixed, dome, or PTZ cameras. Some older models only support MJPEG compression.

VivotekTop

FD7132-120
Includes 3.3 ~ 12 mm Vari-focal Lens, and IR illuminator
Price starts at under $385
This is an example of dome type fixed IP Camera for indoor applications, features true day and night functionality with a removable IR-cut filter and IR illuminators. Boasting a 3-axis mechanism.
These Network cameras provide reasonably good low light sensitivity of 0.56 Lux / F2.0 (Typical); 0 Lux (10 meters IR Lens on).
This manufacturer from Taiwan provides economical cameras, which have lower performance than some of the more expensive brands.
There are many different camera models available. Camera pricing starts at under $300.Remember you get what you pay for so please contact us to make sure the camera meets your objectives.

IP7361-180

Vivotek IP7361

IP7361
Includes 3 - 9 mm, Auto-iris, vari-focal outdoor lens.
Outdoor camera with 2-megapixel sensor. This bullet IP camera has a built-in IR illuminator.
  • 2-megapixel CMOS Sensor
  • 3 ~ 9 mm Vari-focal, Auto-iris Lens