IP Cameras
IP cameras are widely seen as the future of video surveillance. Unlike traditional analog security cameras that require a dedicated cable to connect the camera to video management systems, IP cameras can connect to standard computer networks, allowing dozens of IP cameras to be transmitted over the same cable to any location with Internet access and sufficient bandwidth. As of 2009, though widely promoted, only 1 out of every 5 buyers choose IP cameras. In the next 3 to 7 years, IP cameras are projected to be the dominant camera type selected. However, there are still key challenges for IP cameras and you must understand IP camera advantages and disadvantages before purchasing. If you do choose IP cameras and currently have analog cameras, you will need to determine how to migrate from analog to IP cameras (an often complex and costly process especially because there are no standards for IP cameras).
Most Recent Coverage on IP Cameras
30 vs 60 FPS Shootout
on May 22, 2013
"30 frames per second used to be the maximum practical limit for surveillance cameras. Now, it is ..."
"30 frames per second used to be the maximum practical limit for surveillance cameras. Now, it is ..."
#1 IP Camera Benefit
on May 20, 2013
"Megapixel was, far and away, the number #1 cited benefit in going to IP cameras / video. We asked..."
"Megapixel was, far and away, the number #1 cited benefit in going to IP cameras / video. We asked..."
Testing Panoramic Cameras Outdoors
on May 13, 2013
"Outdoors, PTZs tend to be a favorite for covering large open areas but they only see whatever the..."
"Outdoors, PTZs tend to be a favorite for covering large open areas but they only see whatever the..."
IPVM Camera Testing Procedures
on May 09, 2013
"The foundation of IPVM's camera testing procedure is simultaneous, head to head comparisons, like..."
"The foundation of IPVM's camera testing procedure is simultaneous, head to head comparisons, like..."
#1 IP Camera Problem
on May 07, 2013
"Cost was, far and away, the number #1 cited problem in going to IP cameras / video. We asked over..."
"Cost was, far and away, the number #1 cited problem in going to IP cameras / video. We asked over..."
Focusing Panoramic Cameras
on May 06, 2013
"Focusing panoramic cameras is really important. Indeed, after testing 9 different panoramic camer..."
"Focusing panoramic cameras is really important. Indeed, after testing 9 different panoramic camer..."
Automatic Location Based Camera Control
on Apr 25, 2013
"This is a very neat idea; One that we have not seen any IP camera / VMS provider offer before. H..."
"This is a very neat idea; One that we have not seen any IP camera / VMS provider offer before. H..."
Panoramic Camera Shootout
on Apr 22, 2013
"Panoramic cameras are one of the hottest growing markets within surveillance. The combination of ..."
"Panoramic cameras are one of the hottest growing markets within surveillance. The combination of ..."
The First Windows Based IP Camera - Genius or Crazy?
on Mar 29, 2013
"[Update: this product won 'Best in Show' and we have added the rationale based on our interview w..."
"[Update: this product won 'Best in Show' and we have added the rationale based on our interview w..."
Testing Axis Q19 Thermal Cameras
on Mar 27, 2013
"Over the last few year, Axis has expanded into thermal cameras. While the company is well known a..."
"Over the last few year, Axis has expanded into thermal cameras. While the company is well known a..."
Testing Pelco Sarix Thermal Cameras
on Mar 13, 2013
"In this report, we share our test findings of Pelco's Sarix TI Thermal cameras. While relatively ..."
"In this report, we share our test findings of Pelco's Sarix TI Thermal cameras. While relatively ..."
Lowest Cost Thermal Camera Tested
on Feb 26, 2013
"Recently, DRS entered the IP thermal market with far lower pricing than any incumbent, aiming to ..."
"Recently, DRS entered the IP thermal market with far lower pricing than any incumbent, aiming to ..."
Ban Resolution
on Feb 19, 2013
"The word 'resolution' should be banned in surveillance. What all IP manufacturers mean when they ..."
"The word 'resolution' should be banned in surveillance. What all IP manufacturers mean when they ..."
Test Yourself - Camera Installation
on Feb 01, 2013
"Installation quality is one of the most important aspects of a video surveillance system. Not onl..."
"Installation quality is one of the most important aspects of a video surveillance system. Not onl..."
H.265 / HEVC Codec Tutorial
on Jan 25, 2013
"It is quickly becoming the next big CODEC but: How big will it be? and When will it hit? For the ..."
"It is quickly becoming the next big CODEC but: How big will it be? and When will it hit? For the ..."
WDR Shootout 2013
on Jan 23, 2013
"One of the most important surveillance camera differentiators is Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) perform..."
"One of the most important surveillance camera differentiators is Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) perform..."
Lens Iris Tutorial
on Jan 20, 2013
"Cameras, like humans, have irises. However, cameras have four types of iris options - fixed, manu..."
"Cameras, like humans, have irises. However, cameras have four types of iris options - fixed, manu..."
Panoramic Camera Guide
on Jan 20, 2013
"Panoramic cameras are increasingly popular but they can suffer from confusion between the many ty..."
"Panoramic cameras are increasingly popular but they can suffer from confusion between the many ty..."
Testing Thermal Performance When Snowing
on Jan 15, 2013
"Thermal cameras have long been marketed as able to "see" when traditional cameras cannot, whether..."
"Thermal cameras have long been marketed as able to "see" when traditional cameras cannot, whether..."
IP Camera Competitive Guide 2013
on Jan 14, 2013
"IP cameras remain the main growth and competitive driver within the surveillance industry. Indeed..."
"IP cameras remain the main growth and competitive driver within the surveillance industry. Indeed..."
Infrared IR Surveillance Tutorial
on Jan 13, 2013
"Almost all surveillance cameras perform worse in low light than they do in the day time. One of t..."
"Almost all surveillance cameras perform worse in low light than they do in the day time. One of t..."
WDR Tutorial
on Jan 04, 2013
"WDR is one of the most important and highly differentiating capabilities of surveillance cameras,..."
"WDR is one of the most important and highly differentiating capabilities of surveillance cameras,..."
Field of View (FoV) Tutorial
on Dec 27, 2012
"Field of View, or FoV, is deceptively complex. At its most basic, it is simply what the camera ca..."
"Field of View, or FoV, is deceptively complex. At its most basic, it is simply what the camera ca..."
Lens Length Tutorial
on Dec 19, 2012
"Camera specifications often list lens length: 3mm, 6mm, 2.8 - 9mm, etc. These metrics are importa..."
"Camera specifications often list lens length: 3mm, 6mm, 2.8 - 9mm, etc. These metrics are importa..."
Resolution Tutorial
on Dec 17, 2012
"Understanding video surveillance resolution is surprisingly difficult and complex. While the word..."
"Understanding video surveillance resolution is surprisingly difficult and complex. While the word..."
Thermal vs Day/Night Shootout
on Nov 28, 2012
"What should you do for dark outdoor scenes? Thermal cameras are getting a lot less expensive. Con..."
"What should you do for dark outdoor scenes? Thermal cameras are getting a lot less expensive. Con..."
Embed SD Cards inside IP Cameras?
on Nov 16, 2012
"Would it be a good idea to embed SD cars inside IP cameras? With edge storage becoming a hot tren..."
"Would it be a good idea to embed SD cars inside IP cameras? With edge storage becoming a hot tren..."
CCTV Lens Finder App Tested
on Nov 12, 2012
"Figuring out the right lens needed for a specific camera location can be difficult, especially if..."
"Figuring out the right lens needed for a specific camera location can be difficult, especially if..."
Streaming / Recording Class
on Nov 07, 2012
"Compression settings, choosing between CBR and VBR, analyzing video quality, and selecting motion..."
"Compression settings, choosing between CBR and VBR, analyzing video quality, and selecting motion..."
The Definitive Guide to PPF
on Nov 05, 2012
"The most advanced yet most dangerous way to specify surveillance is pixels per foot (PPF, aka pix..."
"The most advanced yet most dangerous way to specify surveillance is pixels per foot (PPF, aka pix..."
CCTV Camera Clusters / Trees
on Nov 02, 2012
"Are they a symbol of Big Brother, a good design practice or something in between? Here's a real w..."
"Are they a symbol of Big Brother, a good design practice or something in between? Here's a real w..."
Testing Lorex LNC - Hosted Video Killer?
on Oct 30, 2012
"Lorex has quietly become one of the biggest forces in the consumer / home surveillance market, on..."
"Lorex has quietly become one of the biggest forces in the consumer / home surveillance market, on..."
Wearable Surveillance Disrupted? (Memoto)
on Oct 30, 2012
"A Swedish manufacturer has taken aim at revolutionizing wearable cameras that could disrupt perso..."
"A Swedish manufacturer has taken aim at revolutionizing wearable cameras that could disrupt perso..."
PTZs vs 360 / Panoramics
on Oct 29, 2012
"One of the toughest but most important emerging choices is when to use PTZs vs panoramic cameras...."
"One of the toughest but most important emerging choices is when to use PTZs vs panoramic cameras...."
Documenting Camera Layout
on Oct 23, 2012
"Documenting camera layouts can be important: Ensuring that you have a realistic field of view ..."
"Documenting camera layouts can be important: Ensuring that you have a realistic field of view ..."
Axis vs Mobotix
on Oct 22, 2012
"Axis and Mobotix are two of the biggest and oldest IP camera manufacturers yet their approaches a..."
"Axis and Mobotix are two of the biggest and oldest IP camera manufacturers yet their approaches a..."
4 Key Considerations for Camera Layouts
on Oct 21, 2012
"Even once you know what you to monitor - the front door, the safe, the parking lot, etc. - how to..."
"Even once you know what you to monitor - the front door, the safe, the parking lot, etc. - how to..."
Depth of Field Tutorial
on Oct 20, 2012
"Ignore depth of field concerns for 95%+ of surveillance applications, despite what you hear. Whil..."
"Ignore depth of field concerns for 95%+ of surveillance applications, despite what you hear. Whil..."
F-Stop Tutorial
on Oct 14, 2012
"To understand low light surveillance, appreciating the importance and role of the f-stop metric i..."
"To understand low light surveillance, appreciating the importance and role of the f-stop metric i..."
Focusing Tutorial
on Oct 13, 2012
"This tutorial explains the fundamentals of focusing including: The two fundamental controls - ..."
"This tutorial explains the fundamentals of focusing including: The two fundamental controls - ..."
Minidomes vs Full Size Domes
on Oct 09, 2012
"Not too long ago, dome cameras were huge, fitting a full-size box camera into a large protective ..."
"Not too long ago, dome cameras were huge, fitting a full-size box camera into a large protective ..."
How Far Can a PTZ See?
on Sep 23, 2012
"Knowing how far a PTZ can see is a critical but tricky question for PTZ use. On the one hand, see..."
"Knowing how far a PTZ can see is a critical but tricky question for PTZ use. On the one hand, see..."
Deploying Cameras in Super Hot Environments
on Sep 02, 2012
"High temperature locations are some of the most unforgiving for surveillance cameras. Dealing wit..."
"High temperature locations are some of the most unforgiving for surveillance cameras. Dealing wit..."
Shutter Speed / Exposure Tutorial
on Aug 02, 2012
"Surveillance users do not need to be photography experts but understanding the basics of shutter ..."
"Surveillance users do not need to be photography experts but understanding the basics of shutter ..."
Day / Night Camera Tutorial
on Jul 30, 2012
"Day / Night cameras are very popular but not often understood. In this tutorial, we explain what ..."
"Day / Night cameras are very popular but not often understood. In this tutorial, we explain what ..."
Most Fooled by Resolution Myth
on Jul 23, 2012
"A common and important mistake confirmed: After years of manufacturer marketing that resolution e..."
"A common and important mistake confirmed: After years of manufacturer marketing that resolution e..."
Video Quality / Compression Tutorial
on Jul 18, 2012
"While CODECs, like H.264 and MJPEG, get all the attention, a camera's 'quality' or compression se..."
"While CODECs, like H.264 and MJPEG, get all the attention, a camera's 'quality' or compression se..."
Extreme Temperatures Tutorial
on Jul 17, 2012
"Surveillance cameras are expected to work outdoors, ranging from deserts to monsoons to blizards...."
"Surveillance cameras are expected to work outdoors, ranging from deserts to monsoons to blizards...."
Average Camera Models Used Per Project
on Jul 03, 2012
"Choosing the right camera model for the job can be challenging. In high camera count systems, num..."
"Choosing the right camera model for the job can be challenging. In high camera count systems, num..."
How Many Camera Lines Do Integrators Carry?
on Jun 28, 2012
"You have hundreds of camera manufacturers to pick from. Which one should you use? This is a tough..."
"You have hundreds of camera manufacturers to pick from. Which one should you use? This is a tough..."
Day/Night vs IR Cameras
on Jun 22, 2012
"When low light image quality is critical, Day/Night and IR cameras are two of the top choices. Bu..."
"When low light image quality is critical, Day/Night and IR cameras are two of the top choices. Bu..."
Dealing with PoE Only Cameras
on Jun 07, 2012
"Increasingly, IP camera manufacturers are dropping low voltage support in favor of PoE power only..."
"Increasingly, IP camera manufacturers are dropping low voltage support in favor of PoE power only..."
IP Video 101 Training
on Jun 06, 2012
"This free, online course allows you to learn the basics of IP video in under 2 hours by watching ..."
"This free, online course allows you to learn the basics of IP video in under 2 hours by watching ..."
IP Camera Setup Training
on May 30, 2012
"Once you can connect to an IP camera, you need to set it up so that the camera can integrate with..."
"Once you can connect to an IP camera, you need to set it up so that the camera can integrate with..."
IP Camera Bandwidth Training
on May 28, 2012
"Understanding bandwidth is critical to using IP cameras. In this new training, we show how to mea..."
"Understanding bandwidth is critical to using IP cameras. In this new training, we show how to mea..."
Testing Smartphones as Surveillance Cameras
on May 25, 2012
"Using smartphones as surveillance cameras is one of the biggest trends in 2012, with multiple man..."
"Using smartphones as surveillance cameras is one of the biggest trends in 2012, with multiple man..."
IP Camera PC Training
on May 23, 2012
"Over and over, we are told that this is the most common and fundamental problem techs have gettin..."
"Over and over, we are told that this is the most common and fundamental problem techs have gettin..."
Pan/Tilt Camera Selection Guide
on May 11, 2012
"Multiple styles of PTZ are available, though little clear-cut guidance on which is best for a giv..."
"Multiple styles of PTZ are available, though little clear-cut guidance on which is best for a giv..."
Dealing with Low Light Problems
on May 10, 2012
"Getting high quality images in low light is a common challenge. With the problem being so widespr..."
"Getting high quality images in low light is a common challenge. With the problem being so widespr..."
The Right Aspect Ratio for Surveillance
on May 04, 2012
"You are wrong about the best aspect ratio for surveillance, at least statistically speaking. In t..."
"You are wrong about the best aspect ratio for surveillance, at least statistically speaking. In t..."
How Nighttime Video May Crash Your Network
on May 03, 2012
"Nighttime video may crash your network. During the day, under ideal conditions, bandwidth remains..."
"Nighttime video may crash your network. During the day, under ideal conditions, bandwidth remains..."
Outdoor Camera Temperature Impact Examined
on May 02, 2012
"How often do integrators fight temperature extremes to keep cameras operating? In our latest Inte..."
"How often do integrators fight temperature extremes to keep cameras operating? In our latest Inte..."
IP Camera Networking Basics
on Apr 30, 2012
"Getting started with IP cameras can be daunting for those without experience in computer networks..."
"Getting started with IP cameras can be daunting for those without experience in computer networks..."
Reducing Bandwidth Through Privacy Masks?
on Apr 24, 2012
"Reducing your surveillance bandwidth means lower storage costs and better remote monitoring. As s..."
"Reducing your surveillance bandwidth means lower storage costs and better remote monitoring. As s..."
Camera Installation Guide
on Apr 18, 2012
"Camera installation is fundamental to the security industry, but in many cases, little thought is..."
"Camera installation is fundamental to the security industry, but in many cases, little thought is..."
Favorite Encoders
on Apr 09, 2012
"Encoders play a secondary, but vital, role to IP cameras in surveillance systems, normally relega..."
"Encoders play a secondary, but vital, role to IP cameras in surveillance systems, normally relega..."
Sens Up is For Suckers
on Apr 08, 2012
"Run as fast and far as you can, if you are looking for a good low light camera and the manufactur..."
"Run as fast and far as you can, if you are looking for a good low light camera and the manufactur..."
Selecting the Right Bit Rate for CBR Cameras
on Mar 13, 2012
"Some of the most popular cameras on the market, like Panasonic and Sony, are especially tricky to..."
"Some of the most popular cameras on the market, like Panasonic and Sony, are especially tricky to..."
Beware of Cube Cameras
on Mar 08, 2012
"Integrators may find the low price of cube cameras a tempting reason to propose them for surveill..."
"Integrators may find the low price of cube cameras a tempting reason to propose them for surveill..."
H.264 Codec Shootout
on Feb 22, 2012
"While H.264 is often considered a single 'thing', many different 'types' of H.264 exist. These ty..."
"While H.264 is often considered a single 'thing', many different 'types' of H.264 exist. These ty..."
How to Measure IR Illumination
on Feb 16, 2012
"Using IR for night time surveillance is a popular choice. The added non visible light can improve..."
"Using IR for night time surveillance is a popular choice. The added non visible light can improve..."
Q-Star Flashcam Examined
on Feb 09, 2012
"Monitoring criminal hotspots, where graffiti, drug transactions, and dumping are taking place is ..."
"Monitoring criminal hotspots, where graffiti, drug transactions, and dumping are taking place is ..."
PTZ Usage Statistics
on Jan 24, 2012
"How many PTZs are actually used? What's normal? These are especially interesting questions as mul..."
"How many PTZs are actually used? What's normal? These are especially interesting questions as mul..."
UPS Deployment Statistics
on Jan 24, 2012
"Providing backup power for equipment is generally accepted as best practice in surveillance syste..."
"Providing backup power for equipment is generally accepted as best practice in surveillance syste..."
CBR vs VBR: Surveillance Streaming
on Jan 18, 2012
"How you stream video has a major impact on quality and bandwidth. Typically, when people think st..."
"How you stream video has a major impact on quality and bandwidth. Typically, when people think st..."
Directory of Lens Tests
on Jan 12, 2012
"This directory collects our lens test reports and related lens information. Lens Tests HD Lens ..."
"This directory collects our lens test reports and related lens information. Lens Tests HD Lens ..."
Elevator Surveillance Tutorial
on Jan 12, 2012
"Installing surveillance in an elevator can be challenge. Unlike regular camera deployments, cabli..."
"Installing surveillance in an elevator can be challenge. Unlike regular camera deployments, cabli..."
IP Cameras Default Passwords Directory
on Jan 06, 2012
"The following is an alphabetical list of IP camera manufacturers and their default usernames and ..."
"The following is an alphabetical list of IP camera manufacturers and their default usernames and ..."
Statistics: Is Megapixel Replacing PTZ Cameras?
on Jan 03, 2012
"PTZ cameras have been a staple of the industry for years, often being installed as the only means..."
"PTZ cameras have been a staple of the industry for years, often being installed as the only means..."
Directory of Camera Shootout Series
on Dec 28, 2011
"The following directory lists all of our camera shootouts. These shootouts pit 4 - 8 different su..."
"The following directory lists all of our camera shootouts. These shootouts pit 4 - 8 different su..."
Varifocal vs. Fixed Lens
on Dec 27, 2011
"When selecting lenses for surveillance cameras, there are two fundamental options: varifocal and ..."
"When selecting lenses for surveillance cameras, there are two fundamental options: varifocal and ..."
Displaying Real Time Stream Info on IP Cameras
on Dec 15, 2011
"When troubleshooting or testing IP cameras, it is very useful to have clear and immediate visual ..."
"When troubleshooting or testing IP cameras, it is very useful to have clear and immediate visual ..."
Using Fiber Optics for Surveillance
on Dec 08, 2011
"In using fiber for surveillance applications, there are typically two scenarios that users must a..."
"In using fiber for surveillance applications, there are typically two scenarios that users must a..."
IR Illuminator Deployment Statistics
on Dec 05, 2011
"With the growing use of megapixel cameras and associated low light concerns, the use of IR illumi..."
"With the growing use of megapixel cameras and associated low light concerns, the use of IR illumi..."
Illuminar 1030nm 'Invisible' IR Illuminator
on Nov 30, 2011
"Iluminar has announced a new IR illuminator for use in 'super' covert applications. Iluminar..."
"Iluminar has announced a new IR illuminator for use in 'super' covert applications. Iluminar..."
Surveillance Recording Mode Statistics
on Nov 29, 2011
"The question of what recording mode to use is an ongoing debate in the surveillance industry. Som..."
"The question of what recording mode to use is an ongoing debate in the surveillance industry. Som..."
Auto Back Focus (ABF) Preference Statistics
on Nov 27, 2011
"Auto back focus has become a more common feature in the past couple of years, with many, if not m..."
"Auto back focus has become a more common feature in the past couple of years, with many, if not m..."
Testing Wide Vs Narrow Camera FoV
on Nov 25, 2011
"Determining the correct Field of View (FoV) for each surveillance camera is one of the most impor..."
"Determining the correct Field of View (FoV) for each surveillance camera is one of the most impor..."
Pixord Panoramic Cameras Examined
on Nov 16, 2011
"Low-cost IP camera provider Pixord has released two panoramic models targeting much lower price p..."
"Low-cost IP camera provider Pixord has released two panoramic models targeting much lower price p..."
Worst IP Camera Manufacturers
on Nov 16, 2011
"What IP camera manufacturers have integrators had the worst experiences with? Over the last month..."
"What IP camera manufacturers have integrators had the worst experiences with? Over the last month..."
Favorite IP Camera Manufacturers
on Nov 14, 2011
"What IP camera manufacturers do integrators really like the best? Over the last month, we ran an ..."
"What IP camera manufacturers do integrators really like the best? Over the last month, we ran an ..."
Dome Camera Installation Tutorial
on Nov 09, 2011
"Dome cameras have become, without a doubt, more popular in the past few years. Surveys of manufac..."
"Dome cameras have become, without a doubt, more popular in the past few years. Surveys of manufac..."
Resolving IP Camera / VMS Time Sync Problems
on Nov 08, 2011
"One issue which IP surveillance systems must address is syncing of time between cameras and the V..."
"One issue which IP surveillance systems must address is syncing of time between cameras and the V..."
Pentax Plus Megapixel Lens Test
on Nov 03, 2011
"Last month, we released the first ever Megapixel lens test where we did a shootout between 5 lead..."
"Last month, we released the first ever Megapixel lens test where we did a shootout between 5 lead..."
Box vs Dome Cameras
on Oct 27, 2011
"Perhaps the most fundamental decision in selecting a camera is its form factor. For fixed cameras..."
"Perhaps the most fundamental decision in selecting a camera is its form factor. For fixed cameras..."
Low Cost Professional IP Cameras Comparison
on Oct 24, 2011
""Too expensive" is probably the most frequent complaint about IP cameras. While IP cameras have c..."
""Too expensive" is probably the most frequent complaint about IP cameras. While IP cameras have c..."
IP Camera Bootup Shootout
on Oct 20, 2011
"IP cameras, like PCs, take some time to boot up. And just like PCs, the amount of time can vary g..."
"IP cameras, like PCs, take some time to boot up. And just like PCs, the amount of time can vary g..."
Camera Install Issues - Plenum, UL and Conduit Connections
on Oct 19, 2011
"While image quality and reliability get the lion's share of discussion when talking about IP came..."
"While image quality and reliability get the lion's share of discussion when talking about IP came..."
IP Camera Buyer's Guide
on Oct 06, 2011
"Before picking a specific camera or manufacturer, you should consider a few fundamental issues. T..."
"Before picking a specific camera or manufacturer, you should consider a few fundamental issues. T..."
HD Lens Shootout
on Oct 03, 2011
"Conventional wisdom says that lenses make a big difference in image quality but the question rema..."
"Conventional wisdom says that lenses make a big difference in image quality but the question rema..."
Motion Detection Performance Tested
on Sep 06, 2011
"Motion detection is an important element of many, if not, most surveillance systems. It plays a c..."
"Motion detection is an important element of many, if not, most surveillance systems. It plays a c..."
Testing Bandwidth vs Frame Rate
on Aug 31, 2011
"Frame rate selection has a major impact on bandwidth consumption for surveillance cameras. While ..."
"Frame rate selection has a major impact on bandwidth consumption for surveillance cameras. While ..."
SD vs. HD PTZ Shootout
on Aug 21, 2011
"PTZs, like fixed cameras, are moving to megapixel. With PTZs, though, real questions remain about..."
"PTZs, like fixed cameras, are moving to megapixel. With PTZs, though, real questions remain about..."
The Truth About IR Lighting and Bandwidth
on Aug 14, 2011
"One of the industry's top growing myths is that IR illumination massively reduces storage and ban..."
"One of the industry's top growing myths is that IR illumination massively reduces storage and ban..."
How to Specify a Preferred IP Camera
on Aug 12, 2011
"Often users will find a camera that they trust and will prefer to get that camera rather than ris..."
"Often users will find a camera that they trust and will prefer to get that camera rather than ris..."
Why The Market Has Already Tipped to IP
on Aug 08, 2011
"One of the most heated video surveillance debates is when the market will 'tip' to IP cameras, ty..."
"One of the most heated video surveillance debates is when the market will 'tip' to IP cameras, ty..."
WDR Megapixel Camera Shootout
on Jul 31, 2011
"Dealing with direct sunlight is one of video surveillance's toughest problems. Avoiding the sun i..."
"Dealing with direct sunlight is one of video surveillance's toughest problems. Avoiding the sun i..."
Bandwidth vs. Image Quality Shootout
on Jul 24, 2011
"When thinking about maximizing image quality, resolution is usually the first thing that comes to..."
"When thinking about maximizing image quality, resolution is usually the first thing that comes to..."
Night Surveillance - White Light Illuminator Test
on Jul 18, 2011
"Getting quality surveillance images at night can be quite a challenge. A number of techniques, wi..."
"Getting quality surveillance images at night can be quite a challenge. A number of techniques, wi..."
Testing: Gain / AGC Impact on Surveillance Video
on Jul 10, 2011
"Gain control is a critical, though often overlooked, factor in low light surveillance video. It i..."
"Gain control is a critical, though often overlooked, factor in low light surveillance video. It i..."
IP Camera Market Size and Growth Examined
on Jul 05, 2011
"One of the most hotly debated topics is the size and growth of IP cameras - both because of futur..."
"One of the most hotly debated topics is the size and growth of IP cameras - both because of futur..."
Optimized Camera Shootout
on Jun 06, 2011
"If you optimize a camera's settings, how much can you improve its performance? An interesting and..."
"If you optimize a camera's settings, how much can you improve its performance? An interesting and..."
The Indoor 7 Camera Shootout
on May 29, 2011
"Indoors, surveillance cameras are used all over. Given the generally small areas monitored and th..."
"Indoors, surveillance cameras are used all over. Given the generally small areas monitored and th..."
License Plate Capture Shootout
on May 22, 2011
"Capturing license plates is one of the best ways to identify suspects and intruders. As such, it ..."
"Capturing license plates is one of the best ways to identify suspects and intruders. As such, it ..."
How to Handle Headlight Surveillance Problems
on May 18, 2011
"Headlights are a painful problem for video surveillance. Figuring out how to overcome headli..."
"Headlights are a painful problem for video surveillance. Figuring out how to overcome headli..."
Optimized Camera Shootout - Upcoming and Released
on May 17, 2011
"The response to our camera shootout series has been phenomenal with more than 10,000 reads in the..."
"The response to our camera shootout series has been phenomenal with more than 10,000 reads in the..."
Lens Selection Standards for Camera Testing
on May 16, 2011
"With surveillance cameras, deciding what lenses to use for testing can be a difficult decision. W..."
"With surveillance cameras, deciding what lenses to use for testing can be a difficult decision. W..."
Parking Garage Shootout
on May 15, 2011
"Parking garages are a key area for using surveillance cameras. Thefts, assaults, vandalism and ac..."
"Parking garages are a key area for using surveillance cameras. Thefts, assaults, vandalism and ac..."
Intersection Shootout
on May 08, 2011
"Intersections are an important area for using surveillance cameras. Accidents, thefts and traffic..."
"Intersections are an important area for using surveillance cameras. Accidents, thefts and traffic..."
PTZ Versus Megapixel Shootout
on May 01, 2011
"As megapixel surveillance cameras become mainstream, many have begun questioning the value of PTZ..."
"As megapixel surveillance cameras become mainstream, many have begun questioning the value of PTZ..."
Color Versus Day/Night Shootout
on Apr 17, 2011
"Most people prefer color over black and white but when it gets dark out, almost all surveillance ..."
"Most people prefer color over black and white but when it gets dark out, almost all surveillance ..."
Analog vs HD Night Shootout
on Mar 27, 2011
"The whole point of megapixel is better image quality but what if megapixel was actually worse tha..."
"The whole point of megapixel is better image quality but what if megapixel was actually worse tha..."
Texas Instrument's DM81xx Examined
on Mar 22, 2011
"In this note, we examine the DM81xx, a new chipset and camera reference design from Texas Instrum..."
"In this note, we examine the DM81xx, a new chipset and camera reference design from Texas Instrum..."
Specifying Surveillance Video Quality
on Mar 20, 2011
"Ensuring high quality surveillance video can be difficult. The challenge starts with specifying w..."
"Ensuring high quality surveillance video can be difficult. The challenge starts with specifying w..."
SD is the New VHS Tape
on Mar 04, 2011
"The rise of megapixel cameras is literally making Standard Definition cameras look bad. We see th..."
"The rise of megapixel cameras is literally making Standard Definition cameras look bad. We see th..."
Comparing Surveillance IR Illuminators
on Feb 28, 2011
"Video quality at night can be very poor. Even cameras that rate their minimum illumination as .1 ..."
"Video quality at night can be very poor. Even cameras that rate their minimum illumination as .1 ..."
Surveillance Camera RFP Template
on Feb 20, 2011
"This report provides in-depth recommendations and a template for optimally specifying surveillanc..."
"This report provides in-depth recommendations and a template for optimally specifying surveillanc..."
WDR Camera Shootout
on Feb 06, 2011
"One of surveillance's biggest challenges is bright sunlight, especially when that sunlight shines..."
"One of surveillance's biggest challenges is bright sunlight, especially when that sunlight shines..."
Testing: P-Iris Lens Performance
on Jan 31, 2011
"A new form of iris control, called P-Iris, is emerging as a challenger to manual and auto iris le..."
"A new form of iris control, called P-Iris, is emerging as a challenger to manual and auto iris le..."
PoE vs Low Voltage Power Supplies Cost Compared
on Jan 24, 2011
"In this note, we contrast the cost of powering cameras via Power over Ethernet vs a non-powered s..."
"In this note, we contrast the cost of powering cameras via Power over Ethernet vs a non-powered s..."
Testing Lorex's Home/Baby Monitor
on Jan 19, 2011
"For home surveillance, you can get really fancy and expensive but how simple and cheap can you ge..."
"For home surveillance, you can get really fancy and expensive but how simple and cheap can you ge..."
How Far Can a PTZ See? (REPLACED)
on Jan 06, 2011
"While everyone knows that PTZs are the right tool when you want to see far away, how far can a PT..."
"While everyone knows that PTZs are the right tool when you want to see far away, how far can a PT..."
Training: Choosing the Right IP Camera
on Jan 02, 2011
"When selecting a camera, you can choose from a number of different form factors and options. Each..."
"When selecting a camera, you can choose from a number of different form factors and options. Each..."
IP vs Analog Debate Recorded Webinar
on Dec 23, 2010
"On Dec 21st, we held a live 'IP vs Analog' Debate webinar. The full 60 minute webinar is embedded..."
"On Dec 21st, we held a live 'IP vs Analog' Debate webinar. The full 60 minute webinar is embedded..."
Testing TRENDnet's IP Camera (TV-IP110)
on Dec 21, 2010
"TRENDnet offers one of the most well known and least expensive IP cameras in the budget/home mark..."
"TRENDnet offers one of the most well known and least expensive IP cameras in the budget/home mark..."
Debating Axis's IP vs Analog Cost Comparison
on Dec 15, 2010
"We disagree with Axis's claim that IP is lower cost than analog for 14 camera installations. We b..."
"We disagree with Axis's claim that IP is lower cost than analog for 14 camera installations. We b..."
IP Camera Statistics 2011
on Dec 12, 2010
"In this report, we analyze trends, features and pricing for IP cameras. We achieved this by using..."
"In this report, we analyze trends, features and pricing for IP cameras. We achieved this by using..."
Are Your CCTV Cameras Broken?
on Dec 02, 2010
"Broken cameras are some of the most common and, ironically, solvable problems in video surve..."
"Broken cameras are some of the most common and, ironically, solvable problems in video surve..."
2010 IP Camera Sales Surge, 2011 Even Stronger
on Nov 29, 2010
"2010 has been a landmark year for IP camera adoption, with surging sales and widespread mainstrea..."
"2010 has been a landmark year for IP camera adoption, with surging sales and widespread mainstrea..."
Directory of Budget / Home / SMB IP Cameras
on Aug 07, 2010
"We have completed a broad testing program of budget IP cameras for use in the home or SMB markets..."
"We have completed a broad testing program of budget IP cameras for use in the home or SMB markets..."
Testing Lorex's IP Camera (LNE1001)
on Aug 03, 2010
"Simplifying remote viewing is a key element in choosing and using IP cameras for home and small b..."
"Simplifying remote viewing is a key element in choosing and using IP cameras for home and small b..."
Budget IP Camera Competitive Comparison
on Jul 31, 2010
"This report provides an extensive comparison of budget, home and SMB IP cameras. Inside the premi..."
"This report provides an extensive comparison of budget, home and SMB IP cameras. Inside the premi..."
H.264 vs MJPEG - Quality and Bandwidth Tested
on Jul 29, 2010
"Encoding video optimally is critical for IP video surveillance systems. Should you choose H.264 o..."
"Encoding video optimally is critical for IP video surveillance systems. Should you choose H.264 o..."
Testing D-Link's IP Camera (DCS-920)
on Jul 20, 2010
"D-Link is one of the most commonly selected IP cameras in the budget/home market. In this report,..."
"D-Link is one of the most commonly selected IP cameras in the budget/home market. In this report,..."
Training: Frame Rates for IP Cameras
on Apr 19, 2010
"Selecting the 'right' frame rate is one of the most frequently discussed and debated aspects of v..."
"Selecting the 'right' frame rate is one of the most frequently discussed and debated aspects of v..."
Training: Resolution of IP Cameras
on Apr 18, 2010
"Increases in camera resolution are the most significant force improving the quality and usability..."
"Increases in camera resolution are the most significant force improving the quality and usability..."
Training: PTZ Surveillance Camera Basics
on Apr 15, 2010
"PTZ surveillance cameras remain a key tool for surveillance operators, routinely the cornerstone ..."
"PTZ surveillance cameras remain a key tool for surveillance operators, routinely the cornerstone ..."
PPF Test - Getting High Quality Surveillance Video
on Apr 05, 2010
"Megapixel cameras foster hope for much higher quality surveillance video but how much more and in..."
"Megapixel cameras foster hope for much higher quality surveillance video but how much more and in..."
Testing Ikena's Video Enhancement Software
on Mar 17, 2010
"Driven by Hollywood sensationalism, public interest and expectations for miraclous video surveill..."
"Driven by Hollywood sensationalism, public interest and expectations for miraclous video surveill..."
Selectable Power over Ethernet Classes
on Feb 10, 2010
"As cameras offer more options (storage, analytics, etc.), their power needs will certainly rise. ..."
"As cameras offer more options (storage, analytics, etc.), their power needs will certainly rise. ..."
Optimizing Bandwidth Consumption Through I Frame Settings
on Feb 04, 2010
"A blog post from Genetec offers an interesting example of lower level IP camera optimizations tha..."
"A blog post from Genetec offers an interesting example of lower level IP camera optimizations tha..."
Top 5 Reasons Analog Cameras are Easier to Install than IP
on Jan 16, 2010
"While IP has many advantages over analog, ease of installation is not one of them. IP cameras are..."
"While IP has many advantages over analog, ease of installation is not one of them. IP cameras are..."
Normalize Exposure Settings for IP Camera Comparisons
on Dec 23, 2009
"We recommend all surveillance camera comparisons be performed with normalized exposure settings t..."
"We recommend all surveillance camera comparisons be performed with normalized exposure settings t..."
Anixter H.264 Performance Claims Examined
on Dec 23, 2009
"Equipment distributor Anixter's deeply flawed H.264 study reveals key issue in the use and market..."
"Equipment distributor Anixter's deeply flawed H.264 study reveals key issue in the use and market..."
How Exposure Impacts Low Light Video Surveillance
on Dec 13, 2009
"Exposure, and the tricks manufacturers play with exposure, are key to accurately and fairly asses..."
"Exposure, and the tricks manufacturers play with exposure, are key to accurately and fairly asses..."
Are 'Hot' IP Cameras a Problem?
on Nov 10, 2009
"In our ongoing camera testing, many of the megapixel cameras get really hot, really fast. So hot,..."
"In our ongoing camera testing, many of the megapixel cameras get really hot, really fast. So hot,..."
The Risk of Skewed IP Camera Comparisons
on Oct 12, 2009
"One of the most misleading and common problems in evaluating IP cameras is drawing comparisons to..."
"One of the most misleading and common problems in evaluating IP cameras is drawing comparisons to..."
Is Hacking IP Cameras A Major Risk?
on Aug 03, 2009
"Fears are rising that IP cameras can and willl be hacked. At Defcon, a demonstration showed an IP..."
"Fears are rising that IP cameras can and willl be hacked. At Defcon, a demonstration showed an IP..."
Detailed IP Camera Bandwidth Calculator
on Jul 30, 2009
"In a July 2009 report about calculating video surveillance bandwidth, I mentioned that calcu..."
"In a July 2009 report about calculating video surveillance bandwidth, I mentioned that calcu..."
IP Camera 2009 Mid Year Review
on Jul 27, 2009
"Megapixel was the most dominant trend in IP cameras over the first half of 2009. So dominant was ..."
"Megapixel was the most dominant trend in IP cameras over the first half of 2009. So dominant was ..."
Top 5 IP Camera Problems: 2009
on Jul 12, 2009
"In the last year, IP cameras have made great strides and while there are still important barriers..."
"In the last year, IP cameras have made great strides and while there are still important barriers..."
Challenges in Supporting 3rd Party IP Cameras
on Jul 09, 2009
"A few people asked about the difficulties for adding VMS support for IP cameras. A key difficulty..."
"A few people asked about the difficulties for adding VMS support for IP cameras. A key difficulty..."
Should You Buy IP Cameras Online?
on Jul 05, 2009
"Buying video surveillance cameras on-line is a relatively new but growing trend. Traditionally, e..."
"Buying video surveillance cameras on-line is a relatively new but growing trend. Traditionally, e..."
How Do You Solve the Problem of Bad Surveillance Video?
on Jul 01, 2009
"One of the most frequent complaints by both industry outsiders and megapixel camera vendors is ho..."
"One of the most frequent complaints by both industry outsiders and megapixel camera vendors is ho..."
Should You Use PTZ Cameras?
on Jun 15, 2009
"Though popular, PTZ cameras often create a false sense of security. They make for great demonstra..."
"Though popular, PTZ cameras often create a false sense of security. They make for great demonstra..."
How Well do IP Cameras Work in Low Light?
on Jun 07, 2009
"IP cameras have a bad reputation of working poorly in low light conditions. It's part of a greate..."
"IP cameras have a bad reputation of working poorly in low light conditions. It's part of a greate..."
Guidelines for Testing IP Cameras
on May 26, 2009
"What is the best way to test an IP cameras? We have established guidelines for our tests. These g..."
"What is the best way to test an IP cameras? We have established guidelines for our tests. These g..."
Is SVC the Next Big CODEC?
on May 24, 2009
"SVC, or Scalable Video Codec, can dynamically change the resolution and bit-rate of video streams..."
"SVC, or Scalable Video Codec, can dynamically change the resolution and bit-rate of video streams..."
Challenges in Choosing Surveillance Cameras
on May 10, 2009
"With hundreds of manufacturers to choose from and little comparative information available, choos..."
"With hundreds of manufacturers to choose from and little comparative information available, choos..."
Is Bandwidth a Problem for IP Cameras?
on Mar 22, 2009
"Integrators often cite bandwidth as a key concern for deploying IP cameras. Let's examine what th..."
"Integrators often cite bandwidth as a key concern for deploying IP cameras. Let's examine what th..."
Surveillance Camera Demo Directory (IP, MP, CCTV)
on Mar 22, 2009
"This directory collects and presents webcasts from leading IP and Megapixel surveillance cameras...."
"This directory collects and presents webcasts from leading IP and Megapixel surveillance cameras...."
Are You Too Stupid to Buy IP Cameras?
on Jan 12, 2009
"Why are 4 out of 5 of you still not choosing IP cameras? The IP video vendors keep trying to educ..."
"Why are 4 out of 5 of you still not choosing IP cameras? The IP video vendors keep trying to educ..."
Key Factors for High Quality Surveillance Video
on Nov 23, 2008
"Getting high quality surveillance video can be challenging. Indeed, many reports or surveys indic..."
"Getting high quality surveillance video can be challenging. Indeed, many reports or surveys indic..."
SVC - A Better H.264 Coming For Video Surveillance
on Oct 02, 2008
"SVC will solve a key problem of H.264: While H.264 generates a fixed quality and sized video stre..."
"SVC will solve a key problem of H.264: While H.264 generates a fixed quality and sized video stre..."
Should You Use Auto-Tracking PTZs?
on Sep 25, 2008
"Though available for many years, Auto-Tracking PTZs are generating renewed interest with Axis' re..."
"Though available for many years, Auto-Tracking PTZs are generating renewed interest with Axis' re..."
How to Migrate from Analog to IP Cameras
on Aug 23, 2008
"Migrating from analog to IP can be tricky, mainly because most everyone has existing infrastructu..."
"Migrating from analog to IP can be tricky, mainly because most everyone has existing infrastructu..."
IP vs CCTV
on Jul 31, 2008
"An in-depth Q&A with industry leaders on IP vs CCTV has been published by Security Technology..."
"An in-depth Q&A with industry leaders on IP vs CCTV has been published by Security Technology..."
Top 5 IP Camera Problems
on Jul 26, 2008
"The overwhelming majority of people buying cameras today do not choose IP cameras. While most peo..."
"The overwhelming majority of people buying cameras today do not choose IP cameras. While most peo..."
Schneier Unfair to CCTV: Exploring CCTV Advantages
on Jul 02, 2008
"While Bruce Schneier is a brilliant security thinker, I find his recent arguments against CCTV to..."
"While Bruce Schneier is a brilliant security thinker, I find his recent arguments against CCTV to..."
Introduction to Video CODECs : MJPEG, MPEG-4, H.264
on Jun 14, 2008
"CODECs are a critical element of choosing, designing and using video surveillance systems. CODECs..."
"CODECs are a critical element of choosing, designing and using video surveillance systems. CODECs..."
IP Camera Advantages and Disadvantages
on May 14, 2008
"IP cameras have become accepted by the security industry. Yet most cameras are still analog and ..."
"IP cameras have become accepted by the security industry. Yet most cameras are still analog and ..."