How PoE CCTV Kits Can Improve Safety, Surveillance and Operations
PoE IP security cameras are used in a variety of ways to improve safety, surveillance and operations. Unlike analog systems that require power and network access from separate cables, PoE camera systems use one Ethernet cable for both.
This helps businesses save time and money while increasing efficiency. Let’s learn more about these perks of PoE cameras.
1. Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Power over Ethernet (PoE) allows IP cameras to receive both network connectivity and electrical power over a single twisted pair of wires. When choosing a PoE system, look for high-quality components to ensure reliability over time.
Originally developed by Cisco, the technology was designed to support business network phone systems that require both network communications and electrical power. Essentially, it utilizes unused pairs of copper wires in an Ethernet cable to send both data and power.
This reduces installation costs by allowing IT administrators to use existing mains cabling for network networking. It also eliminates the need to install separate power cables at remote locations. Injectors and splitters enable legacy devices to connect to a PoE system, too.
The most reliable PoE security camera systems feature a switch with built-in power supply equipment, known as a PSE. Depending on the maximum power budget per port, it may be sufficient for some legacy devices or for additional IP cameras. In addition to the switch, look for a PoE injector and PoE splitter as well as a network router that supports PoE.
2. High-definition (HD) video
High-definition (HD) video is a standard that provides more pixels for better image quality. It is commonly used on TVs, monitors, and projectors. It can also be found in digital cameras and web cams.
HD has no standardized definition but it generally refers to a video image with more than 480 horizontal scan lines (upon which NTSC is based, 480 visible scan lines in North America) or 576 horizontal scan lines (upon which PAL and SECAM are based, 576 visible scan poe cctv kit lines in Europe). This is significantly higher than the 480 or 576 horizontal line resolution of standard-definition television (SDTV).
The most common HD formats are 720p (1280×720 pixels) and 1080p (1920×1080 pixels). Other formats include the AVCHD format used on some camcorders, the DivX Plus HD file type, which uses H.264/MPEG-4 AVC video compression and Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) surround sound, packaged in a Matroska container, and the WQHD format, which is supported by certain high-end TV sets. The pixel density of HD is significantly greater than that of SD video, which can cause artifacts when displayed on an uncompressed screen.
3. Wide dynamic range (WDR)
Whether you’re driving on the open road or working inside your facility, you need footage that captures important details even in difficult lighting conditions. WDR technology reduces glare and dark spots by managing the light spectrum’s extreme levels. It balances exposure to prevent overexposure and underexposure, improves visibility in high contrast scenes, and enhances license plate or sign recognition.
Forensic WDR: Developed for demanding surveillance environments, this technology delivers video tuned for maximal forensic usability. It eliminates visible noise and artifacts, ensuring sharper, clearer images.
Using non-abrasive cleaning materials, clean your PoE kit on a routine basis to ensure it performs properly. You may also need to replace the lens cover or camera housing on occasion. Performing routine maintenance will ensure your cameras deliver accurate, high-quality footage and keep you safe. Commercial spaces are a popular target for break-ins and vandalism, so it’s important to monitor your property at night. Look for a kit that includes an infrared (IR) illuminator to help improve night vision and capture quality footage. This feature is especially helpful in monitoring parking lots and common areas.
4. Remote viewing
Unlike older CCTV systems that required both a power cable and a data cable, POE cameras use one ethernet cable for both network connectivity and power. This makes installation easier and allows for more flexible camera positioning. If the cameras need to be moved, it’s as simple as moving the ethernet cable.
Remote viewing (RV) is a mental faculty that supposedly allows a percipient, sited in a controlled laboratory setting, to describe perceived details of a remote target. While there are many hurdles to scientific acceptance, RV is still being studied and has shown promise for practical applications.
In retail settings, for example, a skilled remote viewer can help maintain optimal inventory levels and elevate the shopping experience for customers. And in hospitals, a remote viewer can quickly check on a patient’s condition without having to walk to their room.
5. Cloud storage
A cloud storage CCTV system is a practical alternative to traditional on-site storage solutions. It eliminates the need for large, external video and camera storage devices that can be expensive to repair or replace.
Data from CCTV cameras is securely transmitted to a cloud storage facility over the Internet, where it can be accessed by authorized users. This Solar Battery camera allows security teams to access footage 24 hours a day from any location with an internet connection.
Some companies opt for a multicloud storage model, which provides increased flexibility and scalability. This is especially useful when an organization needs to meet compliance and regulatory requirements. However, businesses should take into account that they won’t be in full control of their data once it leaves their premises and is stored by a third-party provider. This could pose potential problems when it comes to IT audits and compliance checks. It’s also a good idea to opt for cloud storage that’s encrypted in transit and at rest, to protect the integrity of your footage from cyberattacks and unauthorized access.
