Where can I find a good camera security system?

Joey Tatum

I have been looking... I know i can get a system at SAM'S for 500 dollars but it only has 4 cameras... i haven't found one that is reasonable that may have 8+ cameras without paying thousands... I am visually impaired and we've been having some "snoopers" lately and want to beef up the security around the house (visual security with taping capabilities)... if you know of something good AND inexpensive, please tell me...

Answer
Good an inexpesive is a relative term. If you think 500 bucks for a DVR with 4 camera's is too expensive then forget about 8. - Personally, I would never buy the system you are looking at. My customers tend to expect quality and reliability as do I.

Typically speaking, retail camera's, like the type you are looking at, are fairly substandard when compared in quality to those on a professional level.

Your best bet is to go at it with some knowledge of the technology, I wrote an article on the subject awhile back but most of the info still applies. I have pasted some of it here. You can find more information on security related topics on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca

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The starting point of any C.C.T.V. system is the camera. Simply stated, a camera is a light sensitive device that converts particles of light into electrical impulses, however, there is a vast difference in the quality of cameras available to the consumer. Factors that differentiate the various cameras include whether they are color, black and white, light sensitivity, image resolution and image transfer technology. The consumer must also consider the inherent advantages and disadvantages in each of these different camera technologies and decide which features best fit their individual needs and goals.

In the past, color cameras have been both very expensive and lack-luster in their image performance, when compared to black and white cameras. New technology is now bringing the innovative technologies closer together in both the price and performance scale. The current differences between the two technologies are almost entirely limited to light sensitivity and light reactivity.

Light sensitivity is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX rating, the higher the sensitivity to light. It is important to keep in mind that even the best-rated cameras are limited by the technology of the day, as well as the visibility conditions present at the time of the surveillance. Although great advancements in low light surveillance continue to be ongoing, the image quality in a low light situation will rarely be up to the standards of daylight surveillance.

Color cameras, although much more appealing on the outside when compared to their black and white counterparts, generally offer less low light sensitivity than a black and white camera. The other advantage of black and white cameras over color cameras is its ability to "see" infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. You can test this by aiming a standard television remote at a black and white camera while watching the monitor, the flashes you see are bursts of infrared light. The advantage of this becomes apparent in the ability to light up a dark area with infrared light, thus making images visible in almost pure darkness. With the color camera the area will appear unlit, however, to a black and white camera, the area will appear almost like daylight.

The black and white cameraâs reactivity to the invisible light spectrum can also pose a disadvantage in certain applications. Infrared light, although not visible to the human eye, is found in abundance in many everyday situations. For example, when aiming a black and white camera at hot pavement, it will "confuse" the camera resulting in an unbalanced image. Professional grade black and white cameras often incorporate infrared cut-filters. These cut-filters inhibit the infrared light spectrum in turn decreasing the cameras low light sensitivity.

The C.C.T.V. Industry measures image resolution in horizontal lines. The higher the line rating, the clearer the image will appear. With this fact in mind, consider that all electronic components within a C.C.T.V. System, from the camera, to the VCR, to the monitor. These items are all rated in the same way. The actual resolution of the entire system will only be as high as the lowest rated item. For example, if you have a camera rated at 450 lines and a monitor rated at 300 lines, then the result will be 300 visible lines of resolution because the monitor is the lowest rated item in this example. Another point to keep in mind is that the line rating is "Total lines" not lines per inch. Therefore a 12" monitor with a 300 line rating has a far better clarity than a 17" monitor with the same line rating.

The most recent and predominant advances in the C.C.T.V. Industry are the changes in image transfer technology. This technology deals with how the camera takes light particles and converts them into electronic images. Without going into too much detail, image transfer technologies include the following:

Phosphorus Tube Cameras - This camera has low quality, old technology and is susceptible to "image burn". Image burn is when intense light sources will burn themselves into the cameraâs light receptor resulting in the image appearing "memorized". Although this is not a problem with modern day cameras, image burn can still occur on monitors. Tube cameras are also known for poor low light sensitivity.

C.C.D - Also known as "Chip cameras". This camera is the most standard of cameras in the professional realm. C.C.D. cameras do not suffer from the problem of image burn and can incorporate various methods of signal processing, which offers a high level of flexibility to the installer.

CMOS Transfer Cameras - These cameras are very small and continue to get smaller as the technology advances. Although very attractive in their size, CMOS cameras generally do not offer the signal processing, image quality or low light sensitivity of the higher priced C.C.D. camera models. However, the technologies are slowly growing closer together to the point where CMOS cameras may eventually take over the Surveillance Industry.

The Surveillance Industry has continued to move towards the implementation of color cameras that switch to black and white, or even infrared in low light conditions. Although there are some models currently available on the market, the technology is not at a point where it is affordable enough to be manufactured on a large scale.

what is a 4 channel security system?

Jennifer

I want to get a security system with a few cameras but I don't know if a 4 channel dvr means it will work with 4 cameras. Please Help

Answer
Yes, a 4 channel DVR means it will work with up to 4 cameras. Another example is an 8 channel DVR the higher channel number means how many cameras can run on it. If you plan to expand to more than 4 security cameras you would need a higher DVR if you only want/need 4 it would be enough.

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What is th best security system for video survalence?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

Anthony R

want a 8 or 4 to start camera,motion detection, and 8 channel dvr system for my business that I can check with my smartphone via internet? Good cameras. Looking $550 or lower

Answer
You cant get a good 8ch system for under a $1000

Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for. Most retailers and sellers make about a 40-80% profit margin, this is after costs like shipping and overhead. That means when you buy a product that costs $100.00 the manufacturer usually has only spent $30 to build it which simply means itâs not a good product and will probably have a working life of about 2 months. Cheap products are like disposable razors they are NOT designed to last for a long time and you will end up replacing them every 2 months.

DVRs need to be good quality as they run 24/7 (20X more than the average electronic device) and process anywhere from 30-480 frames per second which in a year is over 15 billion images, and a good DVR should last 3-5 years.

Lorex, Qsee, tech-CCTV, amazon, ebay, samsclub and other online retails sell complete junk and are extremely low end systems, there is no such thing as a good or high resolution camera under $200. I would recommend dummy cameras they will be just as effective as lorex and you wont be as disappointed by them.

These stores and "brands" take advantage of end users who don't know how to effectively judge CCTV camera and never sell to any profession security installer. They market to end-user who don't know better because anyone knowledgeable about CCTV cameras and surveillance systems wont even consider these type of systems.

Always buy DVR and security equipment from a good brand name manufacturer like Pleco, Bosch, Honeywell Ascendent: http://www.ascendentgroup.com


Not all DVRs are created equal, in fact there are many options that offer varying performance much like the automobile industry. In the world of DVRs you can find the equivalent of a $10,000 Kia and a $350,000 Ferrari and everything in between. Both have 4 wheels and windshield but that where the similarities end, itâs under the hood that counts. Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for.


Unfortunately many people buy very low end systems which have poor frame rate and bad image quality because they buy from Amazon, "spy stores" Lorex, Q-see, NCIX, new-egg, and other online retailers who sell cheap products for china there were never intended to be anything more then a nany cam and should never be used to provide security.

The smaller the files size the more images are able to be sent, and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities, as it also determines the recording storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most important spec of any DVR.

If you are buying a DVR and streaming is a high priority I suggest you ask for a demo and connect to the DVR to make sure it is able to stream fast enough for your needs. Most DVRs say they have remote viewing but it is often too slow and laggy to be of any use especially if it is a standalone.

If you are only going to spend 70$ on cameras then you should buy 15 dummy cameras they will be just as effective and cheaper hen swan cameras.

Also as far as night vision or IR cameras go most do not give good images in the dark. Many companies claim good night vision but there are only a handful of brands who give night vision over 30 feet out doors. normally if a cameras is rated 150 feet of IR it will give you ok images at 30 feet at night and good images at about 20 if rated for 60 feet you might get 15 indoors and will be useless outdoors.

2 Great IR outdoor cameras
http://ascendentdvr.com/ascentseries2/52⦠($95)

http://ascendentdvr.com/vistaseries2/vis⦠($235.00)

Some good CCTV brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (best price/ performance)
www.honeywell.com
www.pelco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

Economical DVR's
Two good economical DVRs I would recommend are Ascendent's AVP-4120 DVR or Pelco's DX-400. They will allow you to view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either IE, or a client software. The AVP-4120 uses the latest H.264 codec to improve streaming and recording time, and will allow PCs and smart phones to remotely view and control your cameras. These are the DVRs I would recommend that are good quality and affordable from companies who stand behind there products.

Again if you are going to buy no name products save money and get dummy cameras they are just as affective and you will be less disappointed.

Hope this Helps,
williammorales93@ymail.com

How to, internet based surveillance camera system?

Joe

I want to make a surveillance system so that I am able to have a camera or two at my house and one or two at my office (about 1 mile away). They need to be able to see at night and perform well outside as thats where the majority of them will be.

I would like to be able to have them all tie in together so that I can view them remotely from one place, or preferably my cellphone or a laptop.

Thank you in advance for any help!

Answer
Start with a budget. Is this worth $1,000, $5,000 or more to you?

Also, since you don't seem to have any specific data network or security camera experience, you might consider hiring this out or contacting a reputable security company to do the work for you.

Being a mile apart tells me you will need two different systems. One home, one office. The biggest reason is the two different local area networks (LAN) used that will connect to the internet.

There are essentially two ways to do this.

1) Analog cameras connect to a DVR, the DVR connects to the LAN.
In this scenario, there are two options. One has the DVR being accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. The other has the video being sent to a "service" - most of the manufacturers have this - and to see what your cameras see, you log into their network.

2) IP network based cameras are on a LAN. The camera views are accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. If video is to be stored, then add in a computer of appropriate horsepower and hard drive size to store the video.

In all cases, be sure to add a battery back up system that powers the cameras, DVR, router, hubs switches, computer and whatever else is associated with the security camera system. It would be silly to have a "power outage" cause a security camera outage.

Cameras rated for outdoors, with night vision (infrared emitters) will cost a little more than small indoor type cameras. At the consumer grade level for analog cameras (that connect to a DVR), plan to spend at least $150 per camera. Lorex and Swann make decent ones. If you need "vandal resistant" or decide to go with IP based cameras, expect to spend around $2,000 per camera. Pelco makes good ones. If Pan-Tilt-Zoom functionality is required, the camera price increases to around $3,000.

The DVRs at the consumer level start at about $400 for a decent 4-channel system. You may need to add a hard disc drive if the one included is not large enough. An 8 or 9-channel DVR weighs in at around $650. A good Pelco DVR will be in the $5,000 range.

There are several more permutations, but the gist of this explanation is that your simple question does not necessarily have a simple answer.

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What is th best security system for video survalence?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

Anthony R

want a 8 or 4 to start camera,motion detection, and 8 channel dvr system for my business that I can check with my smartphone via internet? Good cameras. Looking $550 or lower

Answer
You cant get a good 8ch system for under a $1000

Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for. Most retailers and sellers make about a 40-80% profit margin, this is after costs like shipping and overhead. That means when you buy a product that costs $100.00 the manufacturer usually has only spent $30 to build it which simply means itâs not a good product and will probably have a working life of about 2 months. Cheap products are like disposable razors they are NOT designed to last for a long time and you will end up replacing them every 2 months.

DVRs need to be good quality as they run 24/7 (20X more than the average electronic device) and process anywhere from 30-480 frames per second which in a year is over 15 billion images, and a good DVR should last 3-5 years.

Lorex, Qsee, tech-CCTV, amazon, ebay, samsclub and other online retails sell complete junk and are extremely low end systems, there is no such thing as a good or high resolution camera under $200. I would recommend dummy cameras they will be just as effective as lorex and you wont be as disappointed by them.

These stores and "brands" take advantage of end users who don't know how to effectively judge CCTV camera and never sell to any profession security installer. They market to end-user who don't know better because anyone knowledgeable about CCTV cameras and surveillance systems wont even consider these type of systems.

Always buy DVR and security equipment from a good brand name manufacturer like Pleco, Bosch, Honeywell Ascendent: http://www.ascendentgroup.com


Not all DVRs are created equal, in fact there are many options that offer varying performance much like the automobile industry. In the world of DVRs you can find the equivalent of a $10,000 Kia and a $350,000 Ferrari and everything in between. Both have 4 wheels and windshield but that where the similarities end, itâs under the hood that counts. Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for.


Unfortunately many people buy very low end systems which have poor frame rate and bad image quality because they buy from Amazon, "spy stores" Lorex, Q-see, NCIX, new-egg, and other online retailers who sell cheap products for china there were never intended to be anything more then a nany cam and should never be used to provide security.

The smaller the files size the more images are able to be sent, and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities, as it also determines the recording storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most important spec of any DVR.

If you are buying a DVR and streaming is a high priority I suggest you ask for a demo and connect to the DVR to make sure it is able to stream fast enough for your needs. Most DVRs say they have remote viewing but it is often too slow and laggy to be of any use especially if it is a standalone.

If you are only going to spend 70$ on cameras then you should buy 15 dummy cameras they will be just as effective and cheaper hen swan cameras.

Also as far as night vision or IR cameras go most do not give good images in the dark. Many companies claim good night vision but there are only a handful of brands who give night vision over 30 feet out doors. normally if a cameras is rated 150 feet of IR it will give you ok images at 30 feet at night and good images at about 20 if rated for 60 feet you might get 15 indoors and will be useless outdoors.

2 Great IR outdoor cameras
http://ascendentdvr.com/ascentseries2/52⦠($95)

http://ascendentdvr.com/vistaseries2/vis⦠($235.00)

Some good CCTV brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (best price/ performance)
www.honeywell.com
www.pelco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

Economical DVR's
Two good economical DVRs I would recommend are Ascendent's AVP-4120 DVR or Pelco's DX-400. They will allow you to view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either IE, or a client software. The AVP-4120 uses the latest H.264 codec to improve streaming and recording time, and will allow PCs and smart phones to remotely view and control your cameras. These are the DVRs I would recommend that are good quality and affordable from companies who stand behind there products.

Again if you are going to buy no name products save money and get dummy cameras they are just as affective and you will be less disappointed.

Hope this Helps,
williammorales93@ymail.com

How to, internet based surveillance camera system?

Joe

I want to make a surveillance system so that I am able to have a camera or two at my house and one or two at my office (about 1 mile away). They need to be able to see at night and perform well outside as thats where the majority of them will be.

I would like to be able to have them all tie in together so that I can view them remotely from one place, or preferably my cellphone or a laptop.

Thank you in advance for any help!

Answer
Start with a budget. Is this worth $1,000, $5,000 or more to you?

Also, since you don't seem to have any specific data network or security camera experience, you might consider hiring this out or contacting a reputable security company to do the work for you.

Being a mile apart tells me you will need two different systems. One home, one office. The biggest reason is the two different local area networks (LAN) used that will connect to the internet.

There are essentially two ways to do this.

1) Analog cameras connect to a DVR, the DVR connects to the LAN.
In this scenario, there are two options. One has the DVR being accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. The other has the video being sent to a "service" - most of the manufacturers have this - and to see what your cameras see, you log into their network.

2) IP network based cameras are on a LAN. The camera views are accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. If video is to be stored, then add in a computer of appropriate horsepower and hard drive size to store the video.

In all cases, be sure to add a battery back up system that powers the cameras, DVR, router, hubs switches, computer and whatever else is associated with the security camera system. It would be silly to have a "power outage" cause a security camera outage.

Cameras rated for outdoors, with night vision (infrared emitters) will cost a little more than small indoor type cameras. At the consumer grade level for analog cameras (that connect to a DVR), plan to spend at least $150 per camera. Lorex and Swann make decent ones. If you need "vandal resistant" or decide to go with IP based cameras, expect to spend around $2,000 per camera. Pelco makes good ones. If Pan-Tilt-Zoom functionality is required, the camera price increases to around $3,000.

The DVRs at the consumer level start at about $400 for a decent 4-channel system. You may need to add a hard disc drive if the one included is not large enough. An 8 or 9-channel DVR weighs in at around $650. A good Pelco DVR will be in the $5,000 range.

There are several more permutations, but the gist of this explanation is that your simple question does not necessarily have a simple answer.

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Is there such thing as a video security system I can buy and install myself that transmits to my PC at home?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

BlairLuvr

Can this be done WITHOUT paying a subscription to a security company? The purpose of the video security system is to keep an eye out on the business after hours. Any info, links or suggestions will be appreciated.Thanks.

Answer
Hello

You do not need to subscribe to any service as long as you have internet and know the user name and password of your DVR you should be able to connect to from anywhere.

I suggest you buy a PC based DVR has they have more processing power and normally have a much smaller file size and offer more features then Standalone DVR's. I know many people buy a cheap standalone DVR, only to upgrade to a PC based in 6 months especially when they are using it to manage a store remotely. Also PC based allows you to record up to 64 cameras where a standalone will have a limit of 16.

File size is crucial to streaming because most DVRâs on the market record at real time performance (30FPS per channel) so on a 4CH is trying to send 120, 8CH 240, and a 16CH 480 images per second which requires way too much bandwidth even for the most extreme internet connections.

The smaller the files size the more images are able to be sent, and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities, as it also determines the recording storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most important spec of any DVR.

If you are buying a DVR and streaming is a high priority I suggest you ask for a demo and connect to the DVR to make sure it is able to stream fast enough for your needs. Most DVRs say they have remote viewing but it is often too slow and laggy to be of any use especially if it is a standalone. Some good DVR brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent. These brands are what security professionals use, Q-see, Swan and Lorex are only used in residential applications because they are sold by Tiger Direct, Newegg, Sams Club, Costco and other retail outlets but are not used by any security professionals also their tech support rarely speaks English as their first language...

These brand manufacturers also have a complete line of CCTV cameras for any application from residential to military.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (Recommend)
http://www.honeywell.com
http://www.pelco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

I have done projects that required cameras to stream over satellite and cellular networks and the only DVR that could provide the video streaming was Ascendent Technology Groupâs X3 DVR. To give you an example of what a good DVR should stream like, below are instructions on how to connect to Ascendent's X3 DVR using Internet Explorer.

This makes a great demo as it is up 24/7 and camera 1 is a PTZ camera which allows you to Pan Tilt and Zoom in real-time over the internet using the controls located to the right.

Instructions on how to connect to Ascendentâs DVR with Internet Explorer:

1) http://connect.ascendentgroup.com/ (Must be Internet explorer)
2) Install active X control
3) Hit âConnect)
4) DVR type PC
5) DVR code SITE-100
6) User ID Demo (case sensitive capital D)
7) Password demo (all lower case)
8) Hit extend config
9) IP address: 24.66.224.223
10) And hit connect

Again I recommend going with a PC based DVR but if you don't want to spend the money I suggest Ascendent's AVP-4120 DVR or Pelco's DX-4000 as they will allow you to view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either IE. The AVP-4120 will also allow MAC platforms as well as PC to remotely view cameras and it uses the new H.264 codec but no standalone will offer the video streaming or performance a good PC based DVR will.


Hope this helps

If you have any questions feel free to email me at
williammorales93@ymail.com

What is the best brand to go with for a home security survailance system?

mja_bengal

I am looking to purchase a home security survailance system, I would like to get a system with very clear camera views and good color. Any recommendations?

Answer
For high quality images and color, I would recommend going with an FD series DVR package found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1251-4-channel-dvr-system-with-dvd-r.aspx

This is our complete 4 channel FD package solution. If you need more cameras, we have a 9 and a 16 channel system available as well.

We also have our 600 series DVR package which is also a great choice, at a lower price point. This package can be purchased in 4, 8, 16, and 32 channel configurations.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1006-4-camera-complete-security-system.aspx

Additionally, you can also go with a PC based system running IP cameras for even higher quality which can be found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/c-77-4-channel-dvr.aspx

With any of these systems, you will have the ability to view the cameras using an iPhone or Android phone. This is especially handy if you will not always be at a computer and want to view your cameras.

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How to, internet based surveillance camera system?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

Joe

I want to make a surveillance system so that I am able to have a camera or two at my house and one or two at my office (about 1 mile away). They need to be able to see at night and perform well outside as thats where the majority of them will be.

I would like to be able to have them all tie in together so that I can view them remotely from one place, or preferably my cellphone or a laptop.

Thank you in advance for any help!

Answer
Start with a budget. Is this worth $1,000, $5,000 or more to you?

Also, since you don't seem to have any specific data network or security camera experience, you might consider hiring this out or contacting a reputable security company to do the work for you.

Being a mile apart tells me you will need two different systems. One home, one office. The biggest reason is the two different local area networks (LAN) used that will connect to the internet.

There are essentially two ways to do this.

1) Analog cameras connect to a DVR, the DVR connects to the LAN.
In this scenario, there are two options. One has the DVR being accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. The other has the video being sent to a "service" - most of the manufacturers have this - and to see what your cameras see, you log into their network.

2) IP network based cameras are on a LAN. The camera views are accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. If video is to be stored, then add in a computer of appropriate horsepower and hard drive size to store the video.

In all cases, be sure to add a battery back up system that powers the cameras, DVR, router, hubs switches, computer and whatever else is associated with the security camera system. It would be silly to have a "power outage" cause a security camera outage.

Cameras rated for outdoors, with night vision (infrared emitters) will cost a little more than small indoor type cameras. At the consumer grade level for analog cameras (that connect to a DVR), plan to spend at least $150 per camera. Lorex and Swann make decent ones. If you need "vandal resistant" or decide to go with IP based cameras, expect to spend around $2,000 per camera. Pelco makes good ones. If Pan-Tilt-Zoom functionality is required, the camera price increases to around $3,000.

The DVRs at the consumer level start at about $400 for a decent 4-channel system. You may need to add a hard disc drive if the one included is not large enough. An 8 or 9-channel DVR weighs in at around $650. A good Pelco DVR will be in the $5,000 range.

There are several more permutations, but the gist of this explanation is that your simple question does not necessarily have a simple answer.

Which home security is the best to use and which is best rated?

Kandy

Which home security is the best to use and which is best rated?

Answer
Hello

Alarm system are outated a CCTV camera system does everything an alarm system does and it will pay or itself because there are no monthly fee's, plus you can view your property from anywhere in the world in real time using an i phone, android or PC.


http://www.ascendentgroup.com/home.htm

Here is a write-up that explains IP, analog and Hybrid CCTV systems and the pros and cons of each.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/home.htm

Many people have a misconception that IP has Superior scalability then Analog but with the advancements of DVR's this simply isn't true, with our X3 DVR you can monitor up to 16,000 cameras using our Central management Suite each camera could even be from a different DVR and a different site.

What is the Advantage of IP?
Many of the so called advantages of IP simply don't hold water in the real world, IP is mainly Hype and marketing and outside of a few niche applications such as 1 camera installs, where MP cameras are needed or large scale wireless projects which represent about 2% of the total CCTV market, IP has very few advantages compared to analog based on performance, cost and reliability.

Analog transmits over the internet faster and uses less bandwidth this allows you view you cameras in real time and control PTZ cameras, IP has to much lag and latency to do either properly as it has to transmit and receive video over the network.

IP or Analog why choose ?
What Ascendent Technology has done is allowed our X4S standalone DVR's to work as IP servers to convert analog cameras into IP cameras ( 4/8/16ch) in a U1 or U2 rack mountable case. Its the best of both worlds a standalone DVR that works autonomously with storage, playback and search, with the features of IP cameras to distribute video over networks and record on NVR's making a humongous CCTV system powered by Ascendent's Tri-fusion platform. ( Ascendents oes not charge for their 64CH NVR/Client software )

Scalability and flexibility
Ascendent's standalone, PC- DVR's and IP cameras can record at one resolution and stream at another, its integrated VBR and CBR lets you manage the amount of data and bandwidth that is used by each camera individually giving you the security and reliability of analog with the flexibility and interoperability IP to offer unlimited expandability by adding 1-64 cameras at a time. Ascendent's X4 Trifusion platform integrates the X4 PC, X4S standalone DVRs, X4-IP-Pro and, IP HD mega pixel cameras simultaneously. The Tri-fusion platform not only manages video but can integrate access control, analytics, biometrics, building management, NVR/DVRs, and other 3rd party applications from the leading security providers.

Cost Effective
The X4 Trifusion platform takes full advantage or prior security investments and existing wiring infrastructures while offering the best of breed technology creating a cost effective long term solution to suite the needs of small business to global enterprises.(unlike most companies Ascendent does not charge for their software you buy an IP product it will ship with our 64CH NVR server/client software)

IP cameras are usually based on CMOS
Analog cameras are based on CCD (usually)

CMOS has some significant disadvantages compared to CCD, this means CMOS
have inferior ability to cope with ambient lighting such as back light, bright, deep shadows contrasts, low light and IR this is also known as the real word.

File Size:
The smaller the files size the more images that are able to be sent and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities as it also determines the recoding storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most import spec of any DVR.


Most routers are not designed to handle IP cameras they have enough bandwidth but they are not able to process the amounts of commands. (9 IP cameras 30FP is 230 instructions per second) standard routers have enough bandwidth (up to 1GB) but cant handle the amount of tasks (instructions) so frames get dropped latency is introduced effectiveness of other devices such as POS, printers and data storage are affected and compromised.


IP does have applications and in some cases IP cameras are the only way to do a project but I would estimate that for 95% of applications analog is cheaper and higher performance with a lower cost of ownership and better reliability.

The best solution is using analog cameras with dvr's that have the ability to convert analog cameras into IP devices, that have on site storage so you only stream video over the network when you are viewing your cameras either LAN or WAN or to and from multiple sites.

Email: info@ascendentgroup.com
http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

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What is the best brand to go with for a home security survailance system?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

mja_bengal

I am looking to purchase a home security survailance system, I would like to get a system with very clear camera views and good color. Any recommendations?

Answer
For high quality images and color, I would recommend going with an FD series DVR package found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1251-4-channel-dvr-system-with-dvd-r.aspx

This is our complete 4 channel FD package solution. If you need more cameras, we have a 9 and a 16 channel system available as well.

We also have our 600 series DVR package which is also a great choice, at a lower price point. This package can be purchased in 4, 8, 16, and 32 channel configurations.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1006-4-camera-complete-security-system.aspx

Additionally, you can also go with a PC based system running IP cameras for even higher quality which can be found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/c-77-4-channel-dvr.aspx

With any of these systems, you will have the ability to view the cameras using an iPhone or Android phone. This is especially handy if you will not always be at a computer and want to view your cameras.

Where can I find a good camera security system?

Joey Tatum

I have been looking... I know i can get a system at SAM'S for 500 dollars but it only has 4 cameras... i haven't found one that is reasonable that may have 8+ cameras without paying thousands... I am visually impaired and we've been having some "snoopers" lately and want to beef up the security around the house (visual security with taping capabilities)... if you know of something good AND inexpensive, please tell me...

Answer
Good an inexpesive is a relative term. If you think 500 bucks for a DVR with 4 camera's is too expensive then forget about 8. - Personally, I would never buy the system you are looking at. My customers tend to expect quality and reliability as do I.

Typically speaking, retail camera's, like the type you are looking at, are fairly substandard when compared in quality to those on a professional level.

Your best bet is to go at it with some knowledge of the technology, I wrote an article on the subject awhile back but most of the info still applies. I have pasted some of it here. You can find more information on security related topics on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The starting point of any C.C.T.V. system is the camera. Simply stated, a camera is a light sensitive device that converts particles of light into electrical impulses, however, there is a vast difference in the quality of cameras available to the consumer. Factors that differentiate the various cameras include whether they are color, black and white, light sensitivity, image resolution and image transfer technology. The consumer must also consider the inherent advantages and disadvantages in each of these different camera technologies and decide which features best fit their individual needs and goals.

In the past, color cameras have been both very expensive and lack-luster in their image performance, when compared to black and white cameras. New technology is now bringing the innovative technologies closer together in both the price and performance scale. The current differences between the two technologies are almost entirely limited to light sensitivity and light reactivity.

Light sensitivity is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX rating, the higher the sensitivity to light. It is important to keep in mind that even the best-rated cameras are limited by the technology of the day, as well as the visibility conditions present at the time of the surveillance. Although great advancements in low light surveillance continue to be ongoing, the image quality in a low light situation will rarely be up to the standards of daylight surveillance.

Color cameras, although much more appealing on the outside when compared to their black and white counterparts, generally offer less low light sensitivity than a black and white camera. The other advantage of black and white cameras over color cameras is its ability to "see" infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. You can test this by aiming a standard television remote at a black and white camera while watching the monitor, the flashes you see are bursts of infrared light. The advantage of this becomes apparent in the ability to light up a dark area with infrared light, thus making images visible in almost pure darkness. With the color camera the area will appear unlit, however, to a black and white camera, the area will appear almost like daylight.

The black and white cameraâs reactivity to the invisible light spectrum can also pose a disadvantage in certain applications. Infrared light, although not visible to the human eye, is found in abundance in many everyday situations. For example, when aiming a black and white camera at hot pavement, it will "confuse" the camera resulting in an unbalanced image. Professional grade black and white cameras often incorporate infrared cut-filters. These cut-filters inhibit the infrared light spectrum in turn decreasing the cameras low light sensitivity.

The C.C.T.V. Industry measures image resolution in horizontal lines. The higher the line rating, the clearer the image will appear. With this fact in mind, consider that all electronic components within a C.C.T.V. System, from the camera, to the VCR, to the monitor. These items are all rated in the same way. The actual resolution of the entire system will only be as high as the lowest rated item. For example, if you have a camera rated at 450 lines and a monitor rated at 300 lines, then the result will be 300 visible lines of resolution because the monitor is the lowest rated item in this example. Another point to keep in mind is that the line rating is "Total lines" not lines per inch. Therefore a 12" monitor with a 300 line rating has a far better clarity than a 17" monitor with the same line rating.

The most recent and predominant advances in the C.C.T.V. Industry are the changes in image transfer technology. This technology deals with how the camera takes light particles and converts them into electronic images. Without going into too much detail, image transfer technologies include the following:

Phosphorus Tube Cameras - This camera has low quality, old technology and is susceptible to "image burn". Image burn is when intense light sources will burn themselves into the cameraâs light receptor resulting in the image appearing "memorized". Although this is not a problem with modern day cameras, image burn can still occur on monitors. Tube cameras are also known for poor low light sensitivity.

C.C.D - Also known as "Chip cameras". This camera is the most standard of cameras in the professional realm. C.C.D. cameras do not suffer from the problem of image burn and can incorporate various methods of signal processing, which offers a high level of flexibility to the installer.

CMOS Transfer Cameras - These cameras are very small and continue to get smaller as the technology advances. Although very attractive in their size, CMOS cameras generally do not offer the signal processing, image quality or low light sensitivity of the higher priced C.C.D. camera models. However, the technologies are slowly growing closer together to the point where CMOS cameras may eventually take over the Surveillance Industry.

The Surveillance Industry has continued to move towards the implementation of color cameras that switch to black and white, or even infrared in low light conditions. Although there are some models currently available on the market, the technology is not at a point where it is affordable enough to be manufactured on a large scale.

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What is the best brand to go with for a home security survailance system?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

mja_bengal

I am looking to purchase a home security survailance system, I would like to get a system with very clear camera views and good color. Any recommendations?

Answer
For high quality images and color, I would recommend going with an FD series DVR package found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1251-4-channel-dvr-system-with-dvd-r.aspx

This is our complete 4 channel FD package solution. If you need more cameras, we have a 9 and a 16 channel system available as well.

We also have our 600 series DVR package which is also a great choice, at a lower price point. This package can be purchased in 4, 8, 16, and 32 channel configurations.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1006-4-camera-complete-security-system.aspx

Additionally, you can also go with a PC based system running IP cameras for even higher quality which can be found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/c-77-4-channel-dvr.aspx

With any of these systems, you will have the ability to view the cameras using an iPhone or Android phone. This is especially handy if you will not always be at a computer and want to view your cameras.

Where can I find a good camera security system?

Joey Tatum

I have been looking... I know i can get a system at SAM'S for 500 dollars but it only has 4 cameras... i haven't found one that is reasonable that may have 8+ cameras without paying thousands... I am visually impaired and we've been having some "snoopers" lately and want to beef up the security around the house (visual security with taping capabilities)... if you know of something good AND inexpensive, please tell me...

Answer
Good an inexpesive is a relative term. If you think 500 bucks for a DVR with 4 camera's is too expensive then forget about 8. - Personally, I would never buy the system you are looking at. My customers tend to expect quality and reliability as do I.

Typically speaking, retail camera's, like the type you are looking at, are fairly substandard when compared in quality to those on a professional level.

Your best bet is to go at it with some knowledge of the technology, I wrote an article on the subject awhile back but most of the info still applies. I have pasted some of it here. You can find more information on security related topics on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The starting point of any C.C.T.V. system is the camera. Simply stated, a camera is a light sensitive device that converts particles of light into electrical impulses, however, there is a vast difference in the quality of cameras available to the consumer. Factors that differentiate the various cameras include whether they are color, black and white, light sensitivity, image resolution and image transfer technology. The consumer must also consider the inherent advantages and disadvantages in each of these different camera technologies and decide which features best fit their individual needs and goals.

In the past, color cameras have been both very expensive and lack-luster in their image performance, when compared to black and white cameras. New technology is now bringing the innovative technologies closer together in both the price and performance scale. The current differences between the two technologies are almost entirely limited to light sensitivity and light reactivity.

Light sensitivity is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX rating, the higher the sensitivity to light. It is important to keep in mind that even the best-rated cameras are limited by the technology of the day, as well as the visibility conditions present at the time of the surveillance. Although great advancements in low light surveillance continue to be ongoing, the image quality in a low light situation will rarely be up to the standards of daylight surveillance.

Color cameras, although much more appealing on the outside when compared to their black and white counterparts, generally offer less low light sensitivity than a black and white camera. The other advantage of black and white cameras over color cameras is its ability to "see" infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. You can test this by aiming a standard television remote at a black and white camera while watching the monitor, the flashes you see are bursts of infrared light. The advantage of this becomes apparent in the ability to light up a dark area with infrared light, thus making images visible in almost pure darkness. With the color camera the area will appear unlit, however, to a black and white camera, the area will appear almost like daylight.

The black and white cameraâs reactivity to the invisible light spectrum can also pose a disadvantage in certain applications. Infrared light, although not visible to the human eye, is found in abundance in many everyday situations. For example, when aiming a black and white camera at hot pavement, it will "confuse" the camera resulting in an unbalanced image. Professional grade black and white cameras often incorporate infrared cut-filters. These cut-filters inhibit the infrared light spectrum in turn decreasing the cameras low light sensitivity.

The C.C.T.V. Industry measures image resolution in horizontal lines. The higher the line rating, the clearer the image will appear. With this fact in mind, consider that all electronic components within a C.C.T.V. System, from the camera, to the VCR, to the monitor. These items are all rated in the same way. The actual resolution of the entire system will only be as high as the lowest rated item. For example, if you have a camera rated at 450 lines and a monitor rated at 300 lines, then the result will be 300 visible lines of resolution because the monitor is the lowest rated item in this example. Another point to keep in mind is that the line rating is "Total lines" not lines per inch. Therefore a 12" monitor with a 300 line rating has a far better clarity than a 17" monitor with the same line rating.

The most recent and predominant advances in the C.C.T.V. Industry are the changes in image transfer technology. This technology deals with how the camera takes light particles and converts them into electronic images. Without going into too much detail, image transfer technologies include the following:

Phosphorus Tube Cameras - This camera has low quality, old technology and is susceptible to "image burn". Image burn is when intense light sources will burn themselves into the cameraâs light receptor resulting in the image appearing "memorized". Although this is not a problem with modern day cameras, image burn can still occur on monitors. Tube cameras are also known for poor low light sensitivity.

C.C.D - Also known as "Chip cameras". This camera is the most standard of cameras in the professional realm. C.C.D. cameras do not suffer from the problem of image burn and can incorporate various methods of signal processing, which offers a high level of flexibility to the installer.

CMOS Transfer Cameras - These cameras are very small and continue to get smaller as the technology advances. Although very attractive in their size, CMOS cameras generally do not offer the signal processing, image quality or low light sensitivity of the higher priced C.C.D. camera models. However, the technologies are slowly growing closer together to the point where CMOS cameras may eventually take over the Surveillance Industry.

The Surveillance Industry has continued to move towards the implementation of color cameras that switch to black and white, or even infrared in low light conditions. Although there are some models currently available on the market, the technology is not at a point where it is affordable enough to be manufactured on a large scale.

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What's the difference between IP Cameras and normal cameras?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

Luis B

I want to buy a great CCTV system.

Answer
IP = "Internet protocol". These CCTV cameras have a chip in them that basically turns them into a "video server" with an IP address like any other node on an IP based computer network (like the LAN at your home or office that connects to the Internet). IP based cameras can be password protected and can be accessed from other computers on the same local area network that the computer connects to and can be accessed remotely over the internet if the LAN allows remote connection. You can see what the IP camera sees using a browser. The IP camera can send video or stills to a file server on the network for storage and later viewing if needed.

Analog CCTV security cameras can connect directly to a TV (the Yellow RCA jack monitor port used by game consoles) or they can connect to a multi-channel DVR (they come in 4, 8, 9, 16 or larger channel sizes) and the DVR can connect to a monitor. Most newer security DVRs can also be assigned an IP address so seeing what those analog cameras can see using a computer and a browser. The DVR has a hard drive and is the "server" for storing the captured video.

Certain IP cameras have additional functions that can be controlled by the browser software (using Java) that allows for panning, tilting and zooming. Certain analog cameras allow for panning, zooing and tilting, too, but use a wired or wireless controller - this may be direct connection to the PTZ unit the camera is mounted to or through the DVR.

So basically, there is not a lot of difference between the two - just the communication protocol and method. One is digital and the other is analog (but stores the digital information on the DVR). Just because the IP camera is digital does not make it "better" - it depends what your surveillance requirements are - both camera types will meet your needs - it depends what your budget can stand.

Is there an iPod touch app that can view security cameras?

Daniel

I want an app that can view security cameras using the ip adress from the Internet. So I can see scurity cameras in my school and stuff.

Answer
You cant view cameras unless you are give permission CCTV Closed Circuit TV (note the closed circuit)

95% of cameras and DVR will not allow you to view them with the I phone or other smart phones.
And even then you need permission and password.


One of the few manufactures that allow you to do this is Ascendent Technology Group.
http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

The AVP Series is an intelligent, cost-effective CCTV management solution, integrating the latest technology and the most advanced features while maintaining a simple, intuitive and user friendly interface. The AVP Series is a complete 24/7 turn key solution that meets the demanding security needs of todayâs business and home owners.

Key Features:
⢠4CH Real time DVR
⢠Cost effective turn key CCTV solution
⢠True Plug and play operation
⢠Ultra High Resolution D1 Images
⢠H.264 reduces file size to 40% of Mpeg4 and 200% of MPEG2.
⢠USB 2.0 Smart backup automatically includes software on backup medium
⢠Built-in 1600x1200 V G A display
⢠5 year warranty on HDD
⢠Remote connectivity; view and configure DVR from anywhere using Internet Explorer, Firefox or Safari, and I phone (free)

For an online demo:
Open an internet browser (ie: Internet Explorer, Firefox)
Type 24.66.224.223:92 into the address bar.
Type in the username and password:
( Username: admin Password: admin)

(I phone app provided when you purchase a DVR)

Smart Backup Backup has never been easier or faster once you have found the video by either time or search. Simply input the time and cameras you wish and backup via USB 2.0 drive. When you backup video the playback software is automatically installed on the flash drive eliminating the need for codecs or special programs saving both time and money.

Remote Connectivity The AVP Series has industry-leading remote connectivity allowing you to connect and view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either PC or MAC platforms. The AVP also allows for remote setup giving installers and integrators the ability to quickly and cost-effectively support their customers with sufficient privileges to do so.

VGA Display (1600X1200) The AVP Series has an embedded High resolution (Super extended Graphics Array) allowing you to view your cameras on high definition displays such as LCD, DLP and Plasma (up to1600X1200 resolution).This eliminates the stretching, pixelation and distortion that normally occurs, leaving you with vivid crystal-clear images.

Plug and Play Operation While the features and technology are highly advanced they are designed around a user-friendly graphical interface for simple and quick operation. The AVP Series professional DVR system is now as easy to use as a VCR with search, backup, display and remote connections that are easily set up in less than fifteen minutes from start to finish. The AVP Series automatically rewrites the oldest image with the newest, providing effective maintenance-free operation.

Longevity and Reliability The AVP Series is comprised of high quality components precision engineered for unparalleled performance and real ability for flawless 24/7 operation. We use only the finest Seagate HDDs designed for continuous operation and backed by a 5-year warranty directly from Seagate.

Aesthetic Low-Profile Design All these features integrated into a rugged and stylish aluminum chassis allow it to be used in the most upscale installations making the AV Series the choice for professional security integrators worldwide.


The AVP comes in a 4, 8, and 16ch and offers real time performance for both display and record.

Manufacturer: Ascendent Technology Group
http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

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