DESIGN GUIDE IP-Surveillance design guide Setting up an IP-Surveillance system using Axis network cameras, video encoders and AXIS Camera Station software
Table of contents This document is a guide to setting up an IP-Surveillance system in a small- to medium-sized security installation. It provides an overview of network video’s functionalities and benefits, and outlines considerations and recommendations for implementing such a system. 1. Introduction to an IP-Surveillance system 3 2. Component considerations 10 3. Mounting surveillance cameras 27 4. Server selection 31 5. AXIS Camera Station installation and configuration 34 6.
1. Introduction to an IP-Surveillance system This chapter provides an overview of what is involved in an IP-Surveillance system, the benefits of network video, the importance of defining your surveillance application and legal considerations to take into account when setting up an IP-Surveillance system in your area. 1.1.
PIR detector Computer with video management software Home Analog camera IP NETWORK Axis network camera Alarm siren Office INTERNET Video recording server Mobile telephone Relay Figure 1.1.c. A network video system with alarm integration Because of the digital nature and method of video distribution, IP-Surveillance provides a host of benefits and advanced functionalities that gives you greater control and management of live and recorded video, as well as alarm events.
A megapixel network camera (i.e. one that delivers an image comprised of 1 million or more pixels) can also offer resolutions greater than what an analog camera can offer, which means that more detail or larger areas can be covered. Figure 1.1.f.
Network camera with built-in PoE Network camera without built-in PoE 3115 4 0 0 1 Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) PoE-enabled switch Power P o w e r D s in e Active splitter Power over Ethernet Figure 1.1.g. A system that uses Power over Ethernet (PoE). A PoE-supported network camera connects directly to a PoEenabled switch, while a network camera without built-in PoE support can use an active splitter to make use of PoE.
A security personnel’s ability to protect people, property and assets can be enhanced by the flexibility and power of IP-Surveillance technology. IP-Surveillance systems have been installed in indoor/outdoor and private/public spaces; for example, in stores, homes, day care centers, schools, banks, government offices, factories, warehouses, railway/subway stations and airports. 1.2. Overview of an IP-Surveillance system An IP-Surveillance system can be as simple or as sophisticated as your needs require.
b) Network: There are many ways to design and secure a network for IP-Surveillance. In addition, a network can be as small or as extensive as your requirements, and it can be wired, wireless or a combination of both. It is also easy to increase the bandwidth capacity of your network simply by adding switches/routers. And different technologies can be used to optimize bandwidth usage. Furthermore, a wired network can deliver not only data, but also power using Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology.
1.3. Defining your surveillance application The first and most important step in implementing a video surveillance installation is determining the goal of your surveillance application. It is a good idea to map out where you want video surveillance to take place and for what purpose (i.e. surveillance overview, identification, people counting). This will determine the type and number of network cameras, as well as other components to install and can influence the overall cost of the installation.
2. Component considerations This chapter describes the major components of an IP-Surveillance system, and provides guidelines for selecting equipment. The components covered in this chapter include network camera, video encoder, network switch, server hardware and video management software (AXIS Camera Station). 2.1. Network camera A network camera can be described as a camera and computer combined in one unit.
Fixed network cameras A fixed camera is one whose viewing angle is fixed once it is mounted. A fixed camera with a body and a lens represents the traditional camera type. In some applications, it is advantageous to make the camera very visible. If this is the case, then a fixed camera represents the best choice since both the camera and the direction in which it is pointing are clearly visible. Another advantage is that most fixed cameras have exchangeable lenses.
A difference between PTZ cameras and PTZ domes is that many PTZ cameras do not have full 360-degree pan due to a mechanical stop that prevents the cameras from making a continuous circular movement. It means that the camera cannot follow a person walking continuously in a full circle around the camera. An exception is the AXIS 215 PTZ Network Camera, which thanks to its auto-flip functionality, can instantly flip the camera head 180 degrees and continue to pan beyond its zero point.
b) Feature considerations > Image sensor: Two types of image sensor technologies are available for use in network cameras: CCD (charge-coupled device) and CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor). Each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses that make them appropriate for different applications. CCD sensors have been used in cameras for more than 20 years and present many advantageous qualities such as good light sensitivity, which is important in low-light conditions.
> Lens: Different types of lens are available on network cameras. Lenses may be fixed (the focal length or horizontal field of view is fixed), varifocal (allows for the manual adjustment of the focal length) or zoom (allows the camera to stay in focus when zooming in on objects). Varifocal and zoom lenses offer focal lengths that range from telephoto to wide angle. Figure 2.1.n. Fixed lens Figure 2.1.o.
> Type of video compression: There are three main video compression standards in use today: Motion JPEG, MPEG-4 Part 2 (also referred to simply as MPEG-4 in some references), and H.264 (also known as MPEG-4 Part 10/AVC). Each standard employs different techniques to reduce the amount of data transferred and stored in a network video system. H.264 is the latest standard that is expected to become the video standard of choice in the coming years. Without compromising image quality, H.
> Audio support: A network camera with audio support comes either with a built-in microphone or an input for an external microphone. Speakers may be built in or external. An audio feature enables users to remotely listen in on an area and communicate instructions, orders or requests to visitors or intruders. Audio can also be used as an independent detection method. When sound above a certain level is detected, video recordings and alarms can be triggered.
> Alarm and event management: With this capability, event triggers can be programmed based on schedule, I/Os, video motion detection, audio detection, active tampering alarm or temperature, among others. Pre- and post-alarm image buffers within a network camera can save and send images collected before and after an alarm occurs. Once an alarm or event is detected, a network camera can send notifications via e-mail, TCP, HTTP and upload images via e-mail, FTP and HTTP.
2) Area of coverage: A PTZ or dome camera is able to cover a wider area than a fixed network camera. The bigger the area, the more cameras are needed. 3) Application: i. Determine the kind of surveillance you want to conduct (overt/covert—this will help you in selecting cameras that offer a non-discreet or discreet installation). ii. Determine also the kind of image you want to capture: overview or close-up for identification purposes.
2.2. Video encoder If you already have existing analog CCTV surveillance cameras and want to move to an IP-based surveillance system, you can still make use of your analog investments by adding a video encoder (also called a video server). Simply connect a video encoder to analog cameras. The encoder converts analog signals into digital video and sends them over an IP network, enabling users to remotely monitor the cameras, as well as record and store video on standard PC servers.
Figure 2.2.c. When the AXIS Q7900 Rack is fully outfitted with 6-channel video encoder blades, it can accommodate 84 analog cameras. In instances where there are large numbers of analog cameras with coaxial cables running to a dedicated control room, rack-mounted video encoders or blades (video encoders without their casings) are beneficial. A rack can be outfitted with a mix of video encoder blades. Video encoder blades with one, four and six channels are available from Axis.
> Event management and intelligent video: Consider requirements for I/Os and intelligent video functionalities such as video motion detection, audio detection and active tampering alarm. These features can help reduce bandwidth and storage consumption as they enable only actionable data to be sent upon alarm. > Advanced security and network management: Axis video encoders offer many ways to secure access to video.
Wireless networks When running a cable between a LAN and a network camera is impractical, difficult or expensive, a wireless solution using a wireless access point—also called a device bridge or wireless router—is a good option. Wireless technology can be useful, for example, in historic buildings where the installation of cables would damage the interior; within facilities where there is a need to move cameras to new locations on a regular basis, such as in a supermarket; or in outdoor installations.
The type of video compression employed also effects storage calculations. The H.264 compression format is by far the most efficient video compression technique available today. Without compromising image quality, an H.264 encoder can reduce the size of a digital video file by more than 80 percent compared with the Motion JPEG format and as much as 50 percent more than with the MPEG-4 Part 2 (referred to simply as MPEG-4 in future references) standard.
Storage Options Storage solutions depend on a PC’s or server’s ability to store data. As larger hard drives are produced at lower costs, it is becoming less expensive to store video. There are two ways to approach hard disk storage. One is to store video on the same server that runs the application. This is called a direct attached storage. The other is to have the storage separate from the server that runs the application. This is called a network-attached storage (NAS) or a storage area network (SAN).
Key features include: > Simultaneous viewing and recording of live video from multiple cameras: Multiple users can view several different cameras at the same time, and recordings can take place simultaneously. The system can also be used for different purposes; for example, in a retail environment, one user can use the system for security, while another individual may use the same system to study store traffic.
VIEWING, PLAYBACK and ADMINISTRATION BACKGROUND SERVICE AXIS Camera Station software installed on a Windows PC Analog cameras Coax cables Network switch I/O IO AUD 1 2 3 4 5 RECORDING DATABASE IP NETWORK INTERNET 6 OUT IN Axis video encoder Axis network cameras OPTIONAL VIEWING, PLAYBACK and ADMINISTRATION Remote access via AXIS Camera Station Client software Broadband router AXIS Camera Station Client software OPTIONAL VIEWING, PLAYBACK and ADMINISTRATION Figure 2.5.b.
3. Mounting surveillance cameras This chapter provides recommendations on how to best achieve useable, high-quality, surveillance video based on camera positioning and environmental considerations. The following are some guidelines: > Surveillance objective When positioning a surveillance camera, it is important to keep in mind the kind of image you would like to capture.
> Secure support A camera should be placed on stable supports to minimize camera movement. As PTZ cameras move around, the action can cause image interference if the camera mounting is not properly secured. In outdoor situations, sturdy mounting equipment should always be used to avoid vibrations caused by strong winds. > Use lots of light/Add light if needed The most common reason for poor quality images is lack of light. Generally, the more light, the better the images.
> Avoid direct sunlight Direct sunlight should always be avoided. Direct sunlight will “blind” the camera and can reduce the performance of the image sensor chip. If possible, position the camera with the sun shining from behind the camera. > Bright areas in the images should be avoided as they might become overexposed (bright white) and objects can then appear too dark. This problem typically occurs when attempting to capture an object in front of a window.
> Adjust camera settings It is important to adjust the white balance settings for different environments (indoor/outdoor/ fluorescent), as well as for brightness and sharpness. Figure 3.g. Example of a camera user interface showing options for advanced camera settings. When deciding upon the exposure, a fast shutter speed or shorter exposure time is recommended when capturing rapid movement or when a high frame rate is required.
The following chapters outline how a small- to mid-sized IP-Surveillance system can be implemented using Axis network video products and AXIS Camera Station software. 4. Server selection This chapter discusses general server recommendations, hard disk selection, network-attached storage and RAID as they relate to the installation of the AXIS Camera Station software and its hard disk cleanup procedure. 4.1.
4.3. SCSI is the best solution in terms of reliability (and also the most expensive), followed in order by Serial ATA and IDE. Note that Serial ATA and IDE are made for office desktops and not for 24-hour server operations, as a surveillance solution demands. Since it is difficult to predict how long such hard disks will last, Serial ATA and IDE disks should be installed in a way that makes them easy to replace.
RAID is mostly configured in three different ways: RAID Level Characteristics RAID-0 Data is being striped (divided) over two or several hard disks for improved read/write speed but no redundancy. There is no advantage of using this setup with the AXIS Camera Station. RAID-1 This is also known as disk mirroring since all hard disks are mirrored one by one. At least two disks duplicate data. Both disks can be read at the same time. Write performance as for single disk storage.
5. AXIS Camera Station installation and configuration This chapter provides an overview of the AXIS Camera Station installation and configuration processes covering registration, camera setup, recording methods, bandwidth control and security. 5.1. Installing AXIS Camera Station AXIS Camera Station should be installed on a dedicated, standalone PC where you wish to run the main administration of your network cameras and video encoders.
Customize the view in AXIS Camera Station AXIS Camera Station offers a number of different ways and layouts to view one or many cameras simultaneously. These are called Auto views, My Views, Shared Views and Camera Views. Auto Views are predefined (showing views from cameras that are added to AXIS Camera Station) and cannot be changed. My views and Shared views enable users to customize the viewing layout.
Figure 5.3.a. Making recording settings using AXIS Camera Station. For each camera, you can specify the image settings (streaming format, quality, frame rate and size) to be used for recording. The settings will affect the amount of bandwidth used, as well as the amount of storage space required. For recordings triggered by video motion detection, AXIS Camera Station uses the Axis network camera/ encoder’s built-in motion detection functionality.
External devices such as a door contact, a glass break detector or a passive infrared detector (PIR) that are connected to the input or output ports of a camera/video encoder can also be used as triggers by AXIS Camera Station.
5.6. Security aspects A high level of security can be implemented in the AXIS Camera Station. The software can inherit the Windows user database (local or LDAP/Domain) and you can grant or deny users access to a specific camera. This feature allows you to use your current user database without having to set up and maintain a separate database of users. Once a user is defined, you select the user-access level.
6. Video motion detection This section describes how video motion detection works in the network camera or video encoder and how it functions with AXIS Camera Station. The built-in video motion detection feature in Axis network cameras or video encoders is used to generate an alarm whenever movement occurs in the viewing area.
7. Daily operation This chapter describes the functions in the AXIS Camera Station that may be used on a daily basis: events search, live image viewing, log files and configuration check, as well as remote connections. 7.1. Events search AXIS Camera Station offers easy ways to search for recorded events. The Event Search function pulls up recordings that are triggered by alarms or by manual recordings.
Single or multiple event recordings can be exported to ASF files from the event list. The ASF files include the selected streaming format’s decoder and are playable from Windows Media Player, so any Windows client with Media Player installed should be able to view the recording. 7.2.
7.3. Log files The AXIS Camera Station provides three types of log files: alarm, event and audit. The alarm log shows customer-configured alarms as defined in the event configuration, as well as some system-related messages. The event log provides a list of camera and server events based on date, time, type and source of the events. You can sort or search, for example, for a list of errors or when motion is detected. Figure 7.3.a.
7.4. Configuration overview For maintenance purposes, the AXIS Camera Station’s configuration sheet enables you to obtain, in one place, an overview of all camera and recording configurations. The sheet is accessible from the Help menu. Figure 7.4.a. AXIS Camera Station’s configuration sheet provides an overview of all camera and recording configurations. 7.5.
The AXIS Camera Station Client program enables local as well as remote operations on client workstations using the same user interface. The client application lets you work as if you are operating directly on the AXIS Camera Station recording server. Once the Client program is installed, you simply enter the IP address or host name of the server PC where AXIS Camera Station is installed and, if required, enter the user name and password.
8. Scaling up your surveillance system AXIS Camera Station enables you to easily add more cameras to the system, while the client application allows you to work with multiple AXIS Camera Station servers. 8.1. Adding more cameras AXIS Camera Station allows you to easily add cameras to the system simply by using the Add function. You can add as many cameras to the system as the purchased license allows. If the number of cameras exceeds the number allowed under license, simply purchase an add-on license.
8.4. Storage considerations When the amount of stored data and management requirements exceed the limitations of a direct attached storage, a network-attached storage (NAS) or storage area network (SAN) allows for increased storage space, flexibility and recoverability. Separate storage Network switch, broadband router or coprorate firewall Axis network cameras Computer server with video management software Figure 8.4.a.
Redundant Storage SAN systems build redundancy into the storage device. Redundancy in a storage system allows video, or any other data, to be saved simultaneously in more than one location. This provides a backup for recovering video if a portion of the storage system becomes unreadable. There are a number of options for providing this added storage layer in an IP-Surveillance system, including a Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID), data replication, server clustering and multiple video recipients.
9. Conclusion We hope this document has been helpful in providing guidelines for implementing an IP-Surveillance system. While there are many considerations to take into account, it is relatively easy to set up and operate an Axis IP-Surveillance system once you have defined your application requirements and determined the components you require.
About Axis Communications Axis is an IT company offering network video solutions for professional installations. The company is the global market leader in network video, driving the ongoing shift from analog to digital video surveillance. Axis products and solutions focus on security surveillance and remote monitoring, and are based on innovative, open technology platforms.
