The quality of any comprehensive security surveillance system depends entirely on the quality of its endpoints. Systems backed by artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are useless without IP cameras. If a camera can’t sufficiently collect it, AI can’t process it, and the resulting analytics won’t be reliable. Ensuring IP cameras are installed in optimal locations to provide crucial data is essential to deploying an effective security surveillance system.
Companies and building managers should identify where to place cameras for maximum coverage to create the safest environment possible. They should integrate video surveillance solutions with other systems, such as access and environmental controls. Utilizing data collected by integrated systems gives AI and video analytics the information they need to be an effective security tool.
Where to Locate IP Cameras
Strategic placement of video surveillance IP cameras requires a thorough assessment of vulnerabilities. Cameras should cover entrances, exits, loading docks, manufacturing floors, parking lots, elevators, and secluded or remote areas. They should be placed high enough to deter tampering.
Cameras should be angled to ensure maximum visibility. The higher a camera is placed, the broader the perspective. Many cameras come with adjustable controls for changing camera angles and coverage areas. For larger organizations with a more extensive IP camera system, keeping track of all the necessary endpoints can be challenging. In these scenarios, tools like visual mapping can help.
Visual Mapping
Adding the location of IP cameras to a site or floor plan helps identify the field of view for each endpoint. It allows organizations to determine where cameras are needed and where lines of sight might be obstructed. Visualizing a security surveillance system makes it easier to see gaps in coverage, especially during building renovations or reconfigurations. Building owners can more easily share digitized maps with law enforcement or first responders in an emergency.
Remote or Constrained Placement
IP cameras require power and network connectivity to function. While visual mapping tools can identify ideal locations for camera placement, there is no guarantee that the best locations will also have proximal access to electrical outlets. Rather than work around these constraints, businesses should look into alternative power strategies.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) IP Cameras
PoE IP cameras require only one Ethernet cable for network and power connectivity, making it easier to deploy surveillance cameras where needed. The latest PoE standards support up to 100 watts of power and allow for gigabit transmission speeds. These enhanced capabilities allow organizations to deploy feature-rich devices that require more power and deliver higher-resolution images without incurring additional electrical wiring costs.
How to Integrate IP Cameras
Integrating IP surveillance systems with other solutions can further improve security. Combining access control systems, environmental sensors, and emergency response alerts can simplify operations and improve operational efficiencies. By deploying IP cameras, integrated systems acquire more data for efficient and safe operations.
Access Control
Combining video surveillance with access control systems allows security personnel to see anyone entering or leaving a building and confirm that the access card belongs to the individual using it. Incorporating AI technology would allow for automatic denial of access for unauthorized personnel.
With PoE-enabled card readers, remote buildings can provide the same level of secure access. PoE-enabled IP cameras and card readers could operate from a managed PoE switch, simplifying installation and operations without compromising security.
Environmental Control
When placed throughout a building, PoE-enabled environmental sensors can provide data on temperature, air quality, and noise levels. Incorporating IP cameras in conference rooms or office hallways lets building managers identify potential issues as soon as they arise. Administrators can determine that, for example, an uptick in heating and cooling regularly occurring on Tuesdays is due to increased occupancy and that normalizing room temperatures ahead of time can help avoid costly spikes in power usage.
Emergency Response
IP cameras can be programmed to send out emergency alerts when they’ve detected unauthorized personnel or unusual activity. With the help of AI, an integrated system can alert authorities quickly and implement automated security protocols while waiting for help to arrive.
How AI-Powered IP Cameras and Video Analytics Improve Security
Endpoints such as IP cameras have a symbiotic relationship with AI. AI algorithms require massive amounts of data to deliver accurate insights, and AI-powered cameras need AI to maximize their capabilities. For example, imagine an IP camera is placed so that it is hit by direct sunlight at 4:00 pm. The glare degrades the images sent to the storage device, weakening security. Through automated analysis of incoming data, AI learns to adjust the camera angle on sunny days to avoid this glare. Once the sun sets, the AI capabilities return the camera to its original angle.
AI can enhance the capabilities of PoE-enabled IP cameras through facial and license plate recognition. Because PoE devices can be deployed where power is inaccessible, IP cameras can provide data that would otherwise be unavailable. AI can refine its algorithms with more data to provide more accurate real-time insights.
License Plate Recognition
Finding one license plate from among hundreds of cars parked in a parking lot manually can be time-consuming and error-prone. In an AI-powered system, IP cameras would gather footage of license plates, and software would analyze this data by looking for the requested plate number. If the license plate is found, AI will alert security personnel for appropriate follow-up and use the video to highlight where the vehicle is located. Placing security cameras in employee parking lots can ensure that unauthorized vehicles are quickly identified and removed, reducing potential security risks.
Facial Recognition
Facial recognition software is a developing technology that has its downsides. However, when used with access control systems, this technology allows security personnel to confirm that the person requesting access is the card’s rightful owner. If the system doesn’t recognize the individual, security personnel can be notified to provide an in-person check. Government facilities use facial recognition and biometric readers to secure susceptible information. Using facial recognition with high-resolution IP cameras can reduce the number of false positives.
AI-Powered IP Cameras
IP cameras can deliver high-resolution images and video to improve the accuracy of AI-powered surveillance systems. PoE-powered devices can collect data from across an enterprise, campus, or city and even in locations where electricity may be less accessible. The added data collected by IP cameras feeds AI algorithms for more comprehensive evaluations and enhanced security.
Versa Technology helps organizations enhance security surveillance systems with its advanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) solutions.Visit us to get more information on our products.
