IP view camera: what is it

The IP View camera captures video and broadcasts the video stream in digital format using a network protocol that provides packet routing. But in simple terms, an IP view camera is a video camera plus a mini-computer. The device consists of a sensor, lens, CPU, processing processor, compression processor, and network interface.

How the IP View camera works:

1. The lens focuses the image on the matrix.
2. The matrix converts the color into an electrical signal.
3. The signal is sent to the processor for processing chromaticity, luminance, etc.
4. The video stream enters the compressor.
5. The compressor reduces the stream, and the data is ready to be sent over the network.

It is important to say that each IP View camera has its own IP address transmitted with the connection and used to synchronize the camera with the DVR: using a command or a special program, the DVR uses the IP address of the camera and connects to it. Without an IP address, it is impossible to configure the equipment to access the web ip camera of a mobile device.

What do IP cameras connect to?

The IP View camera broadcasts the video stream to the recorder (server), personal computer (if appropriate software is available) and to the cloud (SaaS solution; software as a service). Therefore, the device connects to the DVR through a router, switch or a separate port (if available).

Since the web ip camera is a low voltage device, it is powered by an adapter, switches, or a DVR if it supports Power over Ethernet.

Signal transmission methods

There are currently three transmission methods: wired, wireless, and hybrid (two wired and wireless). Let’s see what is the difference between the methods.

The wired connection ensures stable and high-speed transmission. However, this requires the laying of networks that are limited in length by the type of cable: 100 m for twisted pair, 500 m for coaxial cable, 100 km for fiber (without repeaters and switches).

Web IP cameras have built-in Wi-Fi (most commonly) or 3G / 4G for wireless transmission. But the transmission distance may be shortened due to physical obstacles in the direction of the router and electromagnetic interference.

The main advantages of a web IP camera

The main difference and advantage of a network video surveillance camera is the transmission of a digital video signal from the photosensitive matrix to the server. But beyond that, there is a whole list of other benefits:

1. Scalability of the system: several streams go over one cable;
2. A very detailed picture;
3. Wide range of digital and hardware image enhancement functions (WDR, BLC, HLC, EIS, DIS, DNR, etc.);
4. Consistent image quality during broadcast;
5. Low noise level;
6. Encoders and encryption technologies ensure transmission security;
7. High speed – up to 50 frames per second and higher, which significantly increases the information content of the picture;
8. Signal transmission without loss of image clarity;
9. Alarm handling systems for timely notification by email or smartphone;
10.  Configuring and controlling the camera from a distance.

Based on the above, we can conclude that an IP camera is a universal security solution that does not require anything other than a network connection. No need for a computer station or even wired electricity. The web ip camera can be used as a temporary or permanent solution, and the network surveillance cameras can be relocated to other locations as needed.