What is an IP or Network camera?

IP stands for Internet Protocol. An IP camera is a camera with an internet or IP address. This means that if required it can be seen anywhere in the world with a suitable browser like Internet Explorer or FireFox. They are very different from ordinary CCTV cameras or web cameras that connect to your PC via a USB port. They do not need a PC to left on to be viewed over the internet. They have their own built in operating systel and programs to let you view the images. On top of that, they can push images out to the internet if needed and they can contact you by e-mail and on your phone. Some IP cameras now allow you to connect directly from your PDA or mobile phone.

 How does the motion detection work?

The general principle is by taking sequential pictures and then comparing differences. No difference means no movement. Depending on how much change there has been, the camera or associated software cad decide that there has been movement. There is sensitivity control to minimise false alarms, mask out areas that will always move etc. The process repeats with the latest picture being compared to the one before. It is important to note that although some cameras have motion detection built in, others do this with software running on a PC.

 I already have CCTV cameras that connect to an old time-lapse recorder. Can I re-use the cameras?

Yes! and this will save you some money in the short term. You need to buy either a web enabled capture card to go into a PC, one or more Video converters that will convert the analog video into IP or a stand-alone NVR / DVR. Doing this will remove a piece of obsolete hardware and extend the functionality of your system for a few hundred pounds. This will provide a whole host of modern capabilities like motion detection, simultaneous record and playback, smart searching for events, remote viewing etc.

 What do I do with these cameras then?

This really depends on your application and budget. What I do is to have the cameras recording 24x7. When the system detects motion, it alerts me via e-mail and my mobile phone. I can then connect to my cameras from anywhere in the world to have a quick look to see whats happening. Theres plenty of other applications for things like a nursery, pubs, clubs, resturants - well anything you want to watch.

 Does this replace my alarm system?

In theory it could but I wouldn't advise it. It compliments your alarm system and in a shop it provides a visual deterrent. Many of the systems have input and output contacts so you could switch on a light or siren etc. Just think, how many times has your alarm gone off and been ignored? If you are unlucky enough to be a victim, you may have that vital evidence to get them and maybe get your property back. Some councils are providing grants for these systems.

 What is an IP address?

It is just like an address you would use to post a letter. The internet knows how to get or 'route' to you with the IP address.

 What is Fixed IP?

An address given to you by your Internet Service provider that does not change.

 What is dynamic or rolling IP?

An IP address that changes under the control of your Internet Service Provider. The service provider owns a range of fixed addresses. From a pool of these addresses, then assigns them to you on a temporary basis. The address allocated may change when your system(s) remain idle or when you switch off/on your router or at anytime.

 I do not have fixed IP. Is this a problem?

It makes things a little more difficult, but no it's not a problem. Technically, all you have to do it keep track of these changes so the internet knows at all times where your cameras are. There are mechanisms companies and means to get around this. One example is Dynamic DNS and another www.no-ip.com.

 Once you have got around dynamic IP are there other problems?

Not really. There may be a few configuration changes to your firewall if you want to view them over the internet but they are very quick and easy. We can supply pre-configured routers if required

 Can I get help or somebody to do it for me?

Yes - both. We can also provide basic training, detailed site documentation of your installation and troubleshooting guides.

 I can't access your java demo. Why?

You need java on your PC and it must be enabled in your browser settings. The chances are that you will have java already especially if you are hooked on playing some of these catchy games that you download off the internet. Follow this link to see if you are already java enabled. If not, you can obtain java free of charge (get the JRE not JDK) from http://www.java.sun.com The camera needs a small java program to communicate with the camera. You should see a picture of a coffee cup in the viewing area shortly after it has started to load. This is replaced quickly by the picture viewed in real-time. It updates upto a maximum of 30 frames per second. It is is slower, this is because of the delays incurred from the camera, across the internet at at your end too.

 Why can't access I your ActiveX demo?

Your browser need to be enabled to allow ActiveX controls. Again, the ActiveX component will load from the camera but the browser needs to allow ActiveX controls. This is in Tools->Internet Options->Security. You will need to use the custom box but this is not difficult.