IP CAMERA SURVEILLANCE: A Wi-Fi SECURITY SYSTEM

BEENU YADAV beenu_yadav@rediffmail.com

Abstract: IP cameras are Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras that use Internet Protocol to transmit image data and control signals over a Fast Ethernet link. As such, IP cameras are also commonly referred to as network cameras. IP cameras are primarily used for surveillance in the same manner as analog closed-circuit television. A number of IP cameras are normally deployed together with a digital video recorder (DVR) or a network video recorder (NVR) to form a video surveillance system. The IP Camera is a popular and reliable item which can help you to monitor anything not being in the place. These products have been widely used in public safety, such as airport, station, banks, schools, armed forces, power plant, power supply center, oil storage center, factories, mines and other enterprises and residential zones to achieve the goal of surveillance. IP security camera will play an important role to us for a better security system. All you need is the most cost effective and most efficient system in the long run. IP security cameras provide us a technology to secure our home and business with range of affordable price. IP security camera shall help to secure anywhere you are in the world. Keywords: IP Camera, Video Surveillance, CCTV, NVR, DVR INTRODUCTION Surveillance cameras are video cameras used for the purpose of observing an area. They are often connected to a recording device, IP network, and/or watched by a security guard/law enforcement officer. Cameras and recording equipment used to be relatively expensive and required human personnel to monitor camera footage. Now with cheaper production techniques, it is simple and inexpensive enough to be used in home security systems, and for everyday surveillance. Analysis of footage is made easier by automated software that organizes digital video footage into a searchable database, and by automated video analysis software such as VIRAT and HumanID. The amount of footage is also drastically reduced by motion sensors which only record when motion is detected. The use of surveillance cameras by governments and businesses has dramatically increased over the last 10 years. A video surveillance system allows analog and IP cameras, operating over a standard IP network, to transmit real-time video feeds over the internet. The video footage is processed and recorded digitally onto an NVR (Network Video Recorder) where it can be accessed remotely by any PC connected to the network [2]. IP surveillance has emerged as the new cream of the crop in the video surveillance industry by offering exciting features such as remote video monitoring, easy integration, improved compression and storage, and enhanced search capabilities. Intelligent IP video cameras with builtin video analytics are a large part of the push towards digital surveillance. The potential for these systems appears to have no end. As technology improves to the point where the benefits of IP security cameras can no longer be ignored, many customers now face the decision of whether or not to migrate to a new system and new equipment [11]. 1

A growing branch in CCTV is Internet Protocol Cameras (IP Cameras). IP cameras allow homeowners and businesses to view their camera(s) through any internet connection available through a computer or a 3G phone. Internet Protocol is a protocol used for communicating data across a packet-switched network using the Internet Protocol Suite, also referred to as TCP/IP[17]. Often referred to as a network camera, an IP camera is a camera system that utilizes Internet Protocol (IP) to transmit video and images over a Fast Ethernet connection. This type of system typically serves the same purpose as a traditional closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera, which is to monitor a location. Among the many differences is that an IP camera usually streams content to a network video recorder (NVR), or a PC, rather than to a digital video recorder (DVR).

IP Camera Surveillance An Internet Protocol camera captures and streams live digital video footage over an IP network. The footage can be viewed and managed remotely from a Web browser, and is archived in digital format. IP cameras have wireless connections, are capable of advanced video analytics, and offer much more flexibility than their analog predecessors [12].

An IP camera usually consists of various components, including a lens, an image sensor, memory, and one or more processors. Memory plays the role of a hard drive by storing video content and the firmware needed to operate the device. Processors are required to process images, compress video, and perform a wide range of network functions. These components enable the camera to perform many of the same functions as a DVR[39].

HISTORY The first IP camera was released in 1996 by Axis Communications. It used an embedded Linux platform internal to the camera. Axis also released documentation for their low-level API called "VAPIX" which builds on the open standards of HTTP and RTSP. This open architecture was intended to encourage third-party software manufacturers to develop compatible management and recording software. As with digital still cameras, the resolution of IP cameras has increased with time. Megapixel IP CCTV cameras are now available at resolutions of 1, 2, 3, 5 and even 11 megapixels. IP CAMERA Gone are the days of the traditional (Closed Circuit) CCTV Cameras introduced in the early 1940s. The time has come to shift to the newer and better IP security Cameras introduced in the late 90s. The IP camera represents the next era in video surveillance technology, an increasingly popular solution that allows for efficient monitoring from any compatible client device with a web browser. This item is a must for working housewife who can monitor their kids left in residence. You just need to fix up this IP Camera in your room in a strategic location and you can see everything what is happening in your home from work place or anywhere in world on the screen of your laptop or PC. Owner of a shop or workshop can also monitor his business with the help of this IP Camera. IP Camera has made life easier for many. This wonderful IP Camera can lessened your distance to 0 from anywhere from your loved objects. Young executives staying in cities are opting for it to monitor their old parents left in villages[25]. It is a CCTV camera that combines the capabilities of the computer in the camera. It is a unified IP camera to capture live situation. Go on and shoot through IP network and allows users to see events from a distance and can capture the event. Including control or set the camera via IP. IP Camera will have its own IP Address (the Default 192.168.0.99). IP Address that we think is the same as our house number. It allows anybody know where we are. IP Camera does not need the computer all the time; it can run on its own. It is different from the webcam because webcam need more computers. It has more functions such as: 1. Function monitoring movement if they are abnormal, it will keep shooting or not, it alarm or send mail to alert administrators. 2. It can listen to a sound and has the ability to send voice and video simultaneously. 3. It can be used as input as well as output device which is a utility function. 4. Serial Port functions for users who want to take control camera attached to the Pan / Tilt. IP CAMERAS FEATURES IP cameras may offer a cost savings because you can leverage your existing Ethernet networking infrastructure [26]. Using IP cameras as a surveillance solution allows you to easily add one camera at a time from any network - whether public or private. IP Cameras just plug into an access point in the network using CAT5 cabling. Ethernet IP cameras use 'Power over Ethernet' (PoE) technology allowing for one cable to handle power and data [28] . Many IP cameras come with the software needed to monitor, record and playback making it more convenient to manage your surveillance system.

 IP cameras can use a variety of video formats including MPEG-4. MPEG-4 format far exceeds the image quality of conventional CCTV . IP cameras are web-ready which can provide surveillance from anywhere there is an internet connection [37]. 2 way audio allow users to communicate what they are seeing (e.g. Gas station clerk assisting a customer on how to use the prepay pumps). LED lighting which is used for night vision. This feature gives users the ability to view low light areas, known as Night Vision. Ability to view at a streaming rate, some IP cameras have a resolution of 640x480 and are able to record at 30 frames per second[1]. IP cameras are also able to function on a wireless network. Initial configuration has to be done through a router, however after the IP camera is installed it can then be used on the wireless network. IP camera help make iptv more enhanced (e.g. the video call and video chat through your ipchatting) [35] TYPES OF IP CAMERAS IP camera, sometimes called Network Camera, is a type of standalone unit serving as surveillance device which can be controlled and monitored through standard protocol, such as HTTP, FTP and SMTP without computers involved. There is usually an embedded web server running inside the camera to handle http request from open internet so that users can access the camera through a web browser to monitor and control the camera. IP Camera can be classified on the following basis: A. Camera lens and image processing unit constructed 1. INTEGRATED IP CAMERA, in which the image capture unit, like camera lens, is integrated with image processing unit. That type of camera has only one lens, thus support only one channel. 2. VIDEO SERVER, which only has image processing unit and other units such as image transfer, networking module. There is no video capture unit inside it. Video server usually supports multi video input channels, 2, 4 and up to 32 channels. The lower end video server support 2 or 4 input channels, however, only one channel can be set to active, thus only this channel can be monitored and responses to motion detection. B. Video capture unit connected to video server 1. CORDED CAMERA, in which the camera is connected by cord. Corded camera provides good quality of video or image

Dome Corded Camera 2. CORDLESS CAMERA, in which the camera is connected by radio signal or X10 adaptors. Cordless is easy to deploy but with low quality of video.

Cordless Camera C. IP Camera connected to internet[36] 1. WIRED CAMERA, which is connected with a CAT 5 standard network cable through a RJ 45 jacket of Ethernet. This type of camera provides most reliable connection and best bandwidth

Wired Camera 2. WIRELESS CAMERA, which is connected to internet through WiFi, Bluetooth or other connecting methods [32].

Wireless Camera The variety of network camera models available allows users to install video security solutions fit for any surveillance application. Some of the more common IP camera types: 1. FIXED IP CAMERAS: Fixed network cameras are the ideal choice for those who wish to monitor a very specific area and also intend to have the camera, and the direction it is pointing, clearly visible. Once the camera is focused on a location, it is set to view only that 5

area. Most fixed cameras support interchangeable lenses and housings for various environments [9].

Fixed IP Camera 2. FIXED DOME CAMERAS: Fixed dome cameras are often small and discreet, with a fixed camera installed inside dome housing. The camera can be pointed in any direction and then set in place to target a specific area. Fixed domes can provide unobtrusive surveillance, and the housing helps to conceal which direction the camera is aiming.

Fixed Dome Camera 3. PTZ CAMERAS: Unlike fixed cameras, PTZ network cameras allow the user to control pan, tilt, and zoom functions in order to monitor wider areas and zero on specific individuals, objects, or activity. In a retail setting, for instance, surveillance operators can control a PTZ camera to follow a suspected shoplifter. Most PTZ cameras offer both manual and automatic PTZ control.

PTZ Camera 4. NETWORK DOME CAMERAS: The advantage of network dome cameras over PTZ cameras and fixed IP cameras is they can pan up to 360 degrees and support continuous "guard tour" operation. Guard tour functionality enables a single network dome camera to automatically move between presets in order to cover large areas that would typically require multiple fixed cameras [38]. 6

Network Dome Camera APPLICATIONS 1. Restaurant Surveillance with IP Cameras [22]. 2. Protect Your Retail Store With IP Camera Surveillance [21]. 3. Using IP Camera Surveillance in Shopping Malls [24]. 4. Using IP Cameras in Prisons and Correctional Facilities [23]. 5. IP Camera Video Surveillance for Car Dealerships [18]. 6. IP Camera Video Surveillance for ATMs [19]. 7. IP Camera Video Surveillance for Airports [20]. 8. IP Camera Surveillance System for Gas Stations [13]. 9. IP Cameras Surveillance in Convenience Stores [14]. 10. IP Camera Surveillance of Parking Lots [15]. 11. IP Camera Surveillance for Vacation Homes [16] [10]. 12. IP Camera Surveillance for Jewellery Stores. 13. IP Camera Surveillance for Hospitals. 14. Intelligent Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Wireless IP Camera [33]. 15. Remote Door Access Control Using an IP Camera System [34]. 16. IP Camera Surveillance for Stations. 17. IP Camera Surveillance for Banks. 18. IP Camera Surveillance for Schools [8]. 19. IP Camera Surveillance for Armed Forces. 20. IP Camera Surveillance for Power Plant. 21. IP Camera Surveillance for Power Supply Center. 22. IP Camera Surveillance for Oil Storage Center. 23. IP Camera Surveillance for Factories. 24. IP Camera Surveillance for Mines. ADVANTAGES OF IP SECURITY CAMERA 1. IP security camera use less equipment, 2. IP security camera use less excessive wiring, 3. Therefore IP security camera is very convenient and took less cost to install and maintain, 4. IP security camera use less power due to using Ethernet so therefore less energy consuming, 5. So it will provide less long term running cost although IP security camera may cost higher during early purchase compare to analog[3], 6. In term of specification IP security camera is more versatile and provides more features [30].

7. IP security camera usually give a higher resolution image that mean clear images as seen in PC compare to analog camera. 8. With IP security camera you shall get more advance features such as: a. Day/night cameras [29], b. Motion sensors, c. Removable infrared filters for sharper colors by day and clear black-and-white footage by night. d. Encrypted signals allow for secure communication, e. IP security camera can also directly control the zoom and tilt capabilities, f. Monitor alarms, g. IP security camera also can provide 2 ways of communication (not only watching), h. There is a program can be use to activate lights or locks if someone triggers those alarms, i. It also has software that you can use to program the IP security camera to operate as what you need such as switch ON/OFF timer and what information you need to send to you or anybody else [31]. DISADVANTAGES OF IP CAMERAS The following are some of the potential weaknesses of IP cameras in comparison to analog CCTV cameras. Higher initial cost per camera. Less choice of manufacturers [5]. Lack of standards. Different IP cameras may encode video differently or use a different programming interface. This means a particular camera model should be deployed only with compatible IP video recording solutions [6]. High network bandwidth requirements: a typical CCTV camera with resolution of 640x480 pixels and 10 frames per second (10 frame/s) in MJPEG mode requires about 3 Mbit/s. Technical barrier. Installation for IP Camera required a series of complicated network setting including IP address, DDNS, router setting and port forwarding. This is very difficult for most users to do alone, without help from an IT technician [7]. Lower dynamic range - i.e. reduced ability to cope with low light and high contrast scenes. CONCLUSION IP cameras change the business model of deploying cameras in large facilities and areas. It was too expensive to deploy, IP is enabling new use of cameras. We will certainly see this continue in schools, corporate campuses, municipalities, outdoor facilities, anywhere that long distances separate cameras from recording/monitoring stations. The price competitiveness of IP cameras increases and as NVR solutions become simpler to setup and manage [27]. Megapixel cameras are the wild card here. If and when the total cost of ownership (camera, bandwidth, storage) of megapixel cameras gets close to analog cameras, the financial incentive to switch to IP could become very strong. If the facilities are large, you want to move aggressively to IP. If DVR suppliers are making advances like going hybrid, supporting analytics, providing central management, etc., you will likely be in good shape for years to come[4]. If they are not supporting this, you may be missing out on this generations wave of operational savings and loss reduction. In this case, start investigating migration to a new IP based system. Integrators and DVR manufacturers will then be forced to support IP cameras or be ousted by rivals that offer the clearly 8

financially preferable IP solution. On the plus side, you should be able to maintain and extend your core business by slowly adding in IP. New features on your current DVR lines should support this. Ensuring that you retain your key technicians with IT know-how should be satisfactory. On the downside, it will be hard to grow double digit revenues because the easy growth in deploying new systems is for large facilities. If you want to grow aggressively, targeting these applications with an IP camera line and an NVR will be a key. You likely already have 1 or 2 solid IT technicians and with additional training and a few more hires should be well poised to expand. REFERENCES: [1] 2006, Nelson Publishing, 2008, Gale, Cengage Learning.URL:http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0CMN/is_1_43/ai_n26771543/ [2] URL:http://ipsecuritycamera.blogspot.com [3] John Honovich, Sep 12th 2010, IP Video Market Info. URL:http://ipvideomarket.info/report/ip_camera_standards_battle [4] John Honovich, Sep 14th 2008, IP Video Market Info. URL:http://ipvideomarket.info/report/should_i_use_ip_cameras__reviewing_ip_camera_ad vantages [5] John Honovich, July 26th 2008, IP Video Market Info. URL:http://ipvideomarket.info/report/top_5_ip_camera_problems [6] John Honovich, July 12th 2009, IP Video Market Info. URL:http://ipvideomarket.info/report/top_5_ip_camera_problems_2009 [7] URL:http://ipvideomarket.info/topics/IPCameras [8] Vincent Juson, June 2nd 2009. URL:http://vljuson.com/network-cameras/acti-4-indoor-ipcamera-package-with-64-camera-recording-software/ [9] URL:http://www.4xemsecurity.com [10] Greg Luttman. URL:http://www.about-home-security.com/home-security-ip-camera.php [11] URL:http://www.alphacardsecurity.com/ip-video-cameras/index.shtml [12] URL:http://www.alphacardsecurity.com/video-surveillance-glossary.shtml#_80211 [13] Was Fernley, Feb 24th 2009, Gas Stations and the IP Camera Surveillance System. URL:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/gas-stations-and-the-ip-camerasurveillance-system-786703.html [14] Was Fernley, Feb 2nd 2009, IP Cameras Surveillance in Convenience Stores. . URL:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/ip-cameras-surveillance-inconvenience-stores-751776.html [15] Was Fernley, Jan 7th 2009, IP Camera Surveillance of Parking Lots. . URL:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/ip-camera-surveillance-of-parkinglots-714261.html [16] Was Fernley, Jan 10th 2009, IP Camera Surveillance for Vacation Homes. . URL:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/ip-camera-surveillance-for-vacationhomes-717565.html [17] Was Fernley, Aug 7th 2008, Ip Cameras Vs. Cctv Cameras - Part One. . URL:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/ip-cameras-vs-cctv-cameras-partone-513372.html

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