Our experience in dealing with a large variety of businesses computer networks, allows us to simply assess the most cost effective way of integrating IP surveillance into clients existing systems.
Report Evaluation
In order to do this effectively we take into consideration the following:
Cameras
We take a number of factors into consideration when specifying suitable cameras.
| Location | Internal or External
What position will best suit optimum angulation
Need for camera/s to be conspicuous or inconspicuous |
Housing | Dome or Mount
Weather/Dust/Shock Proofing |
Lighting | Existing lux levels assessed
Day/Night capabilities |
Single IP | Would analogue camera/s attached to video server/s be suitable |
Lenses | Suitable lenses required |
Servers
Does the client have any existing PC’s or servers capable of being used to manage the cameras? Where this is not an option we design purpose built, robust servers to suit individual monitoring applications. From budget entry to high performance machines.
The following is assessed to ascertain specifications of systems:
- Number of cameras
- Frame rates/resolution of video recording and monitoring
- Live monitoring or monitor on movement only
- Likely size of storage
- Software required
- Future expansion
- Rack mount or stand alone
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
3 essential types of UPS can be used:
- Industrial UPS can be used to maintain power during power outages
- Smart UPS to automatically shut down systems
- Basic UPS used for power surge protection
Back Up Solutions
Whether it be hard drive storage, DVD, tape etc backup solutions are designed by assessing the following:
- Need for automated backup (suitable backup software implemented)
- Length of time video data is to be archived
- Likely size of data
POL (Power Over Lan) or Wireless
In some applications these options can be a cost effective way of installing cameras. They can simplify portability and expansion. We assess and then make recommendations where we see this as being an advantageous option.
For more information on this please click here.
ISP (Internet Service Provider)
Prospective clients current ISP details are reviewed if the remote access features are required.
Existing internet connections are assessed to ascertain:
- Stability
- Static or dynamic IP
- Upload and download speed of existing connection
- Upload and download data costs/limitations
Please note for remote viewing, a static IP address is required and it is also recommended that symmetrical broadband (SDSL) is used.
Firewall
Are there any existing firewalls in place? If so will they be compatible with an IP surveillance system? Most major brands of firewalls are suitable. HoekSec can configure existing firewalls where appropriate or liaise with IT staff/contractors to allow remote access through the firewall. Where not present, HoekSec can recommend and install firewalls to suit all levels of remote intrusion protection.
GSM Modem
Is the SMS feature desired?
Attached to the server, this piece of hardware enables SMS messages and other forms of digital data to be sent and received. It works in conjunction with some surveillance server options.
Integration with Existing CCTV systems
HoekSec will analyse existing CCTV systems. Analogue cameras, cabling, DVR’s, monitors etc are all assessed to see what can be reused and what needs to be replaced in order to setup an effective IP solution.
