Some countries known for producing electronic and security equipment include the United States, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and several European countries. Keep in mind that the global supply chain is interconnected, and components from various countries may be used in the production of a single device.

Security Camera Manufacturers

Axis Communication

Origin: Sweden

Made in: China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hungary, Israel, Sweden

All Axis products are compliant with NDAA

Axis Communications AB is a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras. Axis primarily operates in physical security and video surveillance industries.

Axis referred to a statement confirming their “entire product portfolio” is NDAA-compliant. Axis added that past non-compliant products could still be available from resellers, saying: “Previously we used HiSilicon chipsets in a very small number of products (Companion hardware products). It’s possible that some of these products still can be purchased by some of our resellers, but today Axis only offers NDAA-compliant products.”

Best Selling Axis NDAA Products

See the list of Axis NDAA compliant products

Bosch

Origin: Germany

Made in: Germany, China, Vietnam, Israel, Belgium

US-Listed Bosch Products are compliant with NDAA

Bosch, is a German multinational engineering and technology company headquartered in Gerlingen, Germany.

Bosch referred to a statement confirming their US listed products portfolio is NDAA-compliant and moving forward, all products manufactured for the U.S. market will be NDAA compliant as well.

Bosch also shared a list of products that manufactured in Portugal and Mexico. Portugal and Mexico are countries that are included in the Trade Act Agreement. This means that the listed products are TAA compliant.

Best Selling Bosch NDAA Products

See the list of Bosch NDAA compliant products

Mobotix

Origin: Germany

Made in: Germany

All Mobotix products are compliant with NDAA

MOBOTIX is a leading manufacturer of premium-quality intelligent IP video systems. MOBOTIX was founded in 1999 and is based in Langmeil, Germany.

Mobotix referred to a statement confirming their “entire product portfolio” is 100 percent NDAA-compliant.

“MOBOTIX is fully committed to adhering to NDAA Sec 889 (a)(1)(B) guidelines. We are not allowing any substantial or essential component from a supplier that is named in this section. This includes any component necessary for the proper function or performance of a product or system.”

Best Selling Mobotix NDAA Products

See the list of Mobotix NDAA compliant products

Pelco

Origin: United States

Made in: United States

All Pelco products are compliant with NDAA

Pelco Incorporated is an American-based security and surveillance technologies company, founded in 1957 and headquartered in Fresno, California.

“Pelco product lines do not use or incorporate any essential components or critical technology including SoCs produced by NDAA banned component vendors, nor does Pelco OEM any product lines produced by NDAA banned manufacturers. Also, Pelco was acquired by Motorola and Motorola has declared its intention to also make Pelco products in the USA.”

However, Pelco shared list of 4 GFC Professional series products that non-compliant.

Best Selling Pelco NDAA Products

See the list of Pelco NDAA compliant products

Arecont Vision

Origin: United States

Made in: Taiwan

Arecont Vision has mixed of NDAA-Compliant and Non-Compliant Products

Arecont Vision Costar, LLC is a US-based company founded in 2018 to offer complete video surveillance solutions to customers around the world.

The entire MegaIP camera family, all of the Contera NVRs models include both NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act H. R. 2500) and ONVIF compliance. By the Q3/Q4 of 2021 most of the newer Contera line of cameras will be NDAA as well. Here the Arecont Vision Costar’s NDAA compl

Digital Watchdog

Origin: United States

Made in: Korea

Digital Watchdog products are mostly compliant with NDAA

DW is the industry leader in digital recorders, surveillance cameras and management software. Founded 1987 and engineered in the USA and Korea.

Digital Watchdog referred to a statement confirming most of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“The following Digital Watchdog cameras, encoders, network video recorders (NVRs) and digital video recorders (DVRs) which do not use or deploy critical components, nor include SoCs produced by NDAA banned component vendors, are compliant with the NDAA.

The products listed below are compliant with GSA Schedules and have been deemed TAA compliant as the final products have been manufactured and substantially transformed within the United States and South Korea, both approved signatory countries designated by the TAA.”

Best Selling Digital Watchdog NDAA Products

See the list of Digital Watchdog NDAA compliant products

Speco Technologies

Origin: United States

Made in: Korea

Speco has mixed of NDAA-Compliant and Non-Compliant Products

Speco Technologies is a manufacturer of video surveillance and audio surveillance products for more than 60 years

Speco Technologies referred to a statement confirming some of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“Speco is actively moving to exclude components from banned companies. Please find below a list of current active models from Speco Technologies that do not contain any components from (NDAA Section 889 Part B) banned companies”

Best Selling Speco NDAA Products

See the list of Speco Technologies NDAA compliant products

Ubiquiti

Origin: United States

Made in: Korea

Ubiquity products are mostly compliant with NDAA

Ubiquiti Inc. (formerly Ubiquiti Networks, Inc.) is an American manufacturer of wireless data communication and wired products and founded in San Jose, California, in 2003.

Ubiquity referred to a statement confirming most of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“As of the date hereof and to the best of Ubiquiti’s knowledge, the products listed below do not contain a substantial or essential component or use critical technology produced by Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company or Dahua Technology Company (or any known subsidiary or affiliate of such entities).”

Honeywell

Origin: United States

Made in: Korea

Honeywell has mixed of NDAA-Compliant and Non-Compliant Products

Honeywell International Inc. is an American publicly traded, multinational conglomerate headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Honeywell referred to a statement confirming some of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“The Honeywell 30 Series, 60 Series and Modum IP cameras are designed for use as part of video systems which comply with NDAA 2019, Section 889. In addition to the 30/60/Modum Series cameras, our MAXPRO® and Pro-Watch® VMS/NVR ranges, our 30 Series Embedded NVRs and our ADPRO iFT/iFT-E IP NVRs follow our extensive cyber testing process and do not contain components from any of the companies highlighted in NDAA 2019, Section 889. Together with the Series 30/60/Modum cameras they can be used to provide video systems compliant with NDAA 2019, Section 889”

Panasonic

Origin: Japan

Made in: Japan

Panasonic i-PRO products are mostly compliant with NDAA

In October 2019, i-PRO became independent from Panasonic to establish the Image Sensing Business.

Panasonic i-PRO didn’t share a a public statement on their website and didin’t provide a list of NDAA compliant (or non compliant) products. Here the statements they made in different channels.

“All Panasonic-branded cameras sold in the U.S. are engineered, manufactured and quality assured solely by Panasonic. As such, they are not impacted by the NDAA legislation (federal ban).

For those valued partners that attended our 2019 Partner Summit, we committed to you that, not only will our i-PRO line be 100% non-Hisilicon by the end of March 2021, but many of our products will also be TAA compliant.

The Advidia camera lineup is not fully NDAA compliant at this time. We are working with our 3rd-party manufacturers to ensure full NDAA compliance by March 2021″

Hanwha Vision (Samsung Techwin)

Origin: South Korea

Made in: South Korea

Hanwha Techwwin products are mostly compliant with NDAA

Hanwha Techwin founded 1938 as Samsung Techwin, is a surveillance and optoelectronics company. The company headquartered in South Korea.

Hanwha Techwin referred to a statement confirming most of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“Hanwha Techwin is committed to complying with all government and international trade regulations. Hanwha Techwin supports NDAA-compliance across its product lines and has a full suite of trade-compliant devices, with many currently used in government, defense and a range of commercial applications.

All Hanwha Techwin manufacturing facilities are located in Vietnam and South Korea, making them compliant with Trade Agreements Act (TAA) terms and qualifying Hanwha Techwin products for sale under GSA guidelines.”

Best Selling Axis NDAA Products

See the list of Hanwha Vision NDAA compliant products

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ACTİ

Origin: Taiwan

Made in: Taiwan

Acti products are mostly compliant with NDAA

ACTi, a leading Taiwan-based IP camera manufacturer, offers a wide range of IP camera models that contain SoC made in either Taiwan, Japan or the United States.

Acti referred to a statement confirming most of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“ACTi is providing more than 150 different camera models that contain SoC components from very respected and accepted global brands from Taiwan, Japan and the United States. As the technology research company, ACTi has also developed its own SoC, called A1, which can be found in the wide range of ACTi cameras today.”

Best Selling ACTi NDAA Products

See the list of Acti NDAA compliant products

GeoVision

Origin: Taiwan

Made in: Taiwan

GeoVision has mixed of NDAA-Compliant and Non-Compliant Products

GeoVision Inc. is a manufacturer of intelligent video surveillance systems founded in 1998 in Taiwan.

“GeoVision confirms that the listed products are not manufactured by nor utilize components from Hikvision, Dahua or contain HiSilicon SoCs. The NVR units listed below are manufactured in Irvi

Vivotek

Origin: Taiwan

Made in: Taiwan

Vivotek products are mostly compliant with NDAA

VIVOTEK Inc. was founded in February 2000. The Company markets VIVOTEK solutions worldwide, and has become a leading brand in global security surveillance.

Vivotek referred to a statement confirming most of their product portfolio is NDAA-compliant.

“The listed VIVOTEK cameras and network video recorders (NVRs), which do not use or deploy critical components including SoCs produced by NDAA banned component vendors, are compliant with the NDAA. These products will be included in VIVOTEK’s GSA contracts and are recommended for US Government applications that are subject to the NDAA.”

Best Selling Vivotek NDAA Products

See the list of Vivotek NDAA compliant products

Can I use security cameras that are not produced in China?

Yes, you can certainly choose security cameras that are not produced in China if you have concerns about the origin of the products. Many companies around the world manufacture security cameras, and you can find alternatives from various countries.

When selecting security cameras, it’s essential to consider factors beyond just the country of origin. Look for reputable brands and manufacturers that prioritize security, privacy, and quality. Consider reading reviews, checking certifications, and researching the specifications of the cameras to ensure they meet your requirements.

Some countries known for producing electronic and security equipment include the United States, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and several European countries. Keep in mind that the global supply chain is interconnected, and components from various countries may be used in the production of a single device.

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Table of Contents

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Introduction to Axis Cameras

Axis Communications is a leading manufacturer in the network camera industry, known for its innovative and high-quality surveillance solutions. Axis cameras are widely used in various applications, including commercial security, public safety, and private surveillance. Their advanced technology, reliability, and versatility make them a popular choice for both professional and personal use.

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Choosing the Right Axis Camera

Selecting the appropriate Axis camera for your needs involves considering several factors:

Popular Axis Camera Models:

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Unboxing Your Axis Camera

When you receive your Axis camera, carefully unbox it and ensure all components are present. Typically, the package includes:

Check for any physical damage and verify that all parts are included as per the manufacturer’s list.

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Preparing for Installation

Before starting the installation, gather the necessary tools and plan the setup:

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Physical Installation of Axis Camera

Follow these steps to mount your Axis camera:

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Network Configuration

Configuring the network settings is crucial for accessing and controlling your Axis camera:

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Accessing the Camera Interface

To access the Axis camera interface:

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Firmware Update

Keeping your camera’s firmware up to date ensures optimal performance and security:

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Basic Camera Settings

Adjust the fundamental settings to optimize camera performance:

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Advanced Camera Settings

Explore the advanced settings to enhance your surveillance capabilities:

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Setting Up Remote Access

Remote access allows you to monitor your camera from anywhere:

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Integration with Other Systems

Axis cameras can be integrated with various systems for enhanced functionality:

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User Management

Manage user access and permissions to ensure secure operation:

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Recording and Storage Options

Choose the best storage solution for your recordings:

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Monitoring and Playback

Efficiently monitor live feeds and playback recorded footage:

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Address common problems to ensure continuous surveillance:

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Security Best Practices

Implement security measures to protect your camera system:

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Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of your camera:

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my Axis camera to factory settings?

What is PoE and how does it work with Axis cameras?

Can I use third-party software with Axis cameras?

How do I access my Axis camera remotely?

What should I do if my camera’s image quality is poor?

Are Axis cameras suitable for outdoor use?

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Conclusion

Axis cameras provide robust and versatile surveillance solutions for various applications. By following this detailed setup and user guide, you can ensure seamless installation, optimal performance, and enhanced security for your premises. Remember to regularly update your camera’s firmware and follow best practices for maintenance and security to get the most out of your Axis camera system.

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The Optiview VMS supports IP/Megapixel cameras, Analog, HD-over-Coax and IP/Network recorders. Another aspect of this powerful system is the fact that the 64-channel preview screens can be opened in up to 4 windows for live viewing up to 256 channels at the same time.

While all cameras will record on their local recorders, the VMS allows for up to 16 channels to record locally on the home or work PC. 36 channels can be chosen for playback in increments of 24 hour periods.

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SOFTWARE DOWNLOADS

Right-click and select “Save Link As”

OTHER DOWNLOADS

VMX SERIES SUPPORT

Downloads / Files / Support

Welcome to the comprehensive support page for the Optiview VMX video monitoring platform. This platform, offering both VMX and VMX+ versions, is a potent, integrated solution for single and multi-site surveillance and access control systems. Whether you’re a first-time user or seasoned expert, we’re committed to ensuring that your experience with the Optiview VMX platform is seamless. This page is your hub for downloading all the necessary software and related materials for the Optiview VMX system. As always, if you need more in depth support, call our US based text support line at 904.855.1121.

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OPTIVIEW VMX

INTEGRATED MULTI-SITE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

for Single and Multi-Site Surveillance and Access Control Systems

OVERVIEW

The Optiview VMX and VMX+ remote viewing platforms are both powerful, all-in-one professional, project level video surveillance management software. The Optiview VMX Client can be downloaded for free, and will support up to 64 network cameras and intercoms, and supports 1 user account. View up to 512 cameras and 256 Video Intercom devices, integrate multiple access control units, and access advanced analytics by upgrading to the Optiview VMX+.

The Optiview VMX/+ provides user rights management, device management, alarm management, video wall output, and two-way audio. In addition to these VMS features, Optiview VMX/+ offers advanced features, including support for real-time face recognition and robust event management controls.

FEATURES

SOFTWARE DOWNLOADS

OTHER DOWNLOADS

To view the product pages for Optiview VMX Free and VMX Plus click the link below:

Optiview VMX Free

Optiview VMX+

COMPATIBILITY

Optiview VMX is compatible with all Optiview IP-enabled devices: network cameras, NVRs, DVRs, video intercom devices, and access control devices. The server is also compatible with the ONVIF protocol, so it can connect to ONVIF-enabled third-party devices, such as some of Optiview’s third party manufacturers. Call your account managers to talk about our compatability matching.

PLAYBACK

The Optiview VMX platform allows for quick and easy playback of surveillance footage from both the Live footage interface, and the Playback interface. Users can search by time, date, or event type. Users can also zoom in on the timeline, and drag through the timeline with video scrubbing. Download multiple video files at a time, take single frame snapshots, or a ‘burst’ of snapshots.

SMART SEARCH

Search through your surveillance footage quickly and efficiently by using Smart Search, and targeting the area of the screen where motion would have occurred.

INSTANT PLAYBACK

Thought you saw something? Click “Instant Playback” for an immediate jump back in time to 30 seconds in the past to re-review your surveillance footage.

MULTI-MONITOR SUPPORT

Take advantage of complete multi-monitors support.

ADVANCED REPORTING

The Optiview VMX supports heat map, people counting, ANPR license plate capture, attendance and access control reporting.

FLEXIBLE & SCALABLE

Optiview VMX+ supports up to 512 video channels, which includes up to thirty two (32) face recognition cameras. Easily add multiple recorders, cameras, and access control devices from a single-site or from multiple locations around the world.

FISHEYE CAMERA SUPPORT

The software features full support for Optiview Fisheye cameras. The software supports options for the Fisheye camera installation and supports dewarping Optiview’s 360° panoramic fisheye cameras in both live view, and in playback. Because dewarp happens at the software level, the video is always recorded in full fisheye, even if the live view is being dewarped. This allows viewers to see the entire video, and dewarp sections of the video at any given time.

Fisheye

Fisheye Dewarp X4

Fisheye Dewarp X8

REAL-TIME FACE RECOGNITION

The Optiview VMX/+ performs real-time facial recognition on up to two (2) / thirty two (32) channels simultaneously. The software captures and analyzes facial features to determine gender, age, expression, glasses, mustache, and mask, and then can record the faces and store the associated structured data. The server also filters incoming video to display faces that match target features. Facial recognition requires a camera that supports this feature.

ACCESS CONTROL & VIDEO INTERCOM

Optiview VMX offers full support and integration for access control and video intercom products to support a complete security and surveillance system. The server monitors door status and events, manages access rights, and support advanced rules management. In addition to access controls, the server supports two-way communication between intercom and control center.

MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS

The software manages the devices and the user accounts for an entire organization. Operators can assign different camera ranges, active use periods, and business roles for each user. The server also supports different schemes for various events, including IVS, to record and view all event history information.

VISITORS

Quickly register and customize access for visitors.

LPR

Capture license plates in a searchable database.

EMAP

Easily select cameras to view on map.

USERS

Create up to 100 Users per VMX Server.

EVENTS

Track entrance / exit, alarms, access, and more.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE VMS AND THE VMX?

The Optiview VMS and the Optiview VMX are both multi-site remote monitoring software that can be used to view cameras and devices from a centralized location. The VMS is ideal for residential and commercial use, where basic camera surveillance is the primary need. The VMX, however, has an advanced access control module, and can support advanced surveillance such as facial recognition, traffic density, ANPR license plate database capture, and more. See which software is right for you here!

WHY DO I HAVE TO START USING THE VMX?

The free Optiview Video Management Software (VMS) is our legacy remote viewing software, and will no longer be supported going forward. Instead, download our all new Optiview VMX, our powerful new remote viewing software; The user is able to choose between a free VMX, and a more advanced VMX+ with additional features. The new VMX and VMX+ provide a more stable management and viewing platform for CCTV and Access Control, as well as providing many new features. Not sure which solution is right for you? Contact an Optiview Account Manager or compare the Optiview VMX and VMX+ here.

Features Gained:

Optiview’s VMX will support Optiview legacy equipment as well as the latest in megapixel, analytic, and edge recording technology.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FREE VMX AND PAID VMX+ VERSION?

The free version of the Optiview VMX supports 64 video channels, 2 ANPR channels, 2 facial recognition channels, 64 access control channels, 2 POS channels, 4 attendance devices, 2 alarms, and supports only 1 online user at a time.

The paid version allows the user up to a maximum of 512 video channels, 200 access control devices, 1024 doors, 32 video intercom devices, 32 facial recognition cameras, 100 alarms, 32 license plate capture cameras, and supports up to 100 online users.

See which software is right for you here!

WHEN WILL THE VMS STOP BEING SUPPORTED AND AVAILABLE?

The Optiview VMS 2018 will continue to be available to download for a limited amount of time, but will no longer be supported going forward.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF DEVICES THAT CAN BE PUT ON THE FREE VMX OR THE PAID VMX+?

The free version of the Optiview VMX will suport up to 64 cameras. If the user wants to view more than 64 cameras, they will have to purchase the Base License, and then an additional license for each channel, up to 512. See which software is right for you here!

HOW DO I UPGRADE FROM THE VMS TO THE VMX?

The VMX software is completely different from the Optiview VMS and a user can use both. The VMX Server and Client software can be downloaded here.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE VMX SERVER AND THE VMX CLIENT?

The server runs all the services and acts as a connection point for several clients that will handle the management of configurations, devices and integrations of one or more IP devices supported by the Optiview VMX software.

IF I HAVE THE SERVER DOWNLOADED, HOW DO I DOWNLOAD THE CLIENT?

The client can be downloaded using the link from the server user interface labeled as “Download Client”. I also made a link for the Client software within our technical support page which Georgia can use, to make a download link within the product resource page.

CAN I DESIGNATE THE NUMBER OF CAMERA CHANNELS BEING SEEN BY THE VMX PER DVR OR NVR?

Yes. The number of cameras “actually” in use by a device (for example a 32-ch NVR) can be designated within the VMX so that it can only sees the actual number of channels. For example, If a user is using multiple 32 channel recorders but not all channels, the VMX can be set to not count every single channel and maximize the usage.

CAN I DESIGNATE THE NUMBER OF ACCESS CONTROL DOORS BEING SEEN BY THE VMX?

No. Whatever the maximum number of doors that an access control panel can handle is, that is what the VMX will see. For example, a CAS-4MC (4 door master control panel) is expandable up to 64 doors, so this will max out the VMX. No additional master control panels can be added unless the user upgrades to the paid version of the Optiview VMX.

CAN I SEE THE HUMAN TEMPERATURE DETECTION & NOTIFICATION SOLUTION ON THE VMX?

The human temperature text overlay can be seen at LIVE mode and Playback mode at the VMX.

HOW MANY USERS CAN ACCESS THE VMX AT ONE TIME?

For the FREE version, only 1 user can access the VMX at any given time, regardless of how many clients are downloaded. With the paid version, up to 100 active users are able to access the VMX Server at any given time via multiple clients. See which software is right for you here!

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I’ve wanted to make this list for a while, and hopefully it will help answer some simple questions or guide newcomers on their IP video quest. Feel free to add, change, or refine this!

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Most Popular Camera Manufactures (on this forum):

ACTi (http://www.acti.com) – Midrange camera – good price – free software.

Avtech (http://www.avtech.com.tw) – Has good ‘push’ support for events to mobile devices.

Avigilon (http://www.avigilon.com) – Similar to Axis cost – must buy through dealer – good software/support.

Axis (http://www.axis.com) – Popular choice – higher end cameras get expensive – easy to find online for sale – free + paid software options.

Dahua (http://www.dahuasecurity.com‎) – Re-branded as Q-See – low price – difficult to find updates/support.

Geovision (http://www.geovision.com.tw‎) – Midrange – have some LPR cameras.

Grandstream (http://www.grandstream.com) – Low cost – have some unique features.

Hikvision (http://www.hikvision.com‎) – Becoming more popular – re-branded as Lorex/Swann systems from Costco.

IQinVision (http://www.iqeye.com) Midrange pricing.

Mobotix (http://www.mobotix.com) – Cameras made in Germany – reliable but expensive – no moving parts to fail in their cameras.

Vivotek (http://www.vivotek.com) – Midrange pricing.

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Other Camera Manufactures:

Arecont (http://www.arecontvision.com/‎)

Brickcom (http://www.brickcom.com/)

Bosch (http://www.boschsecurity.us/en-us/ProductInformation/Cameras/NetworkCameras/)

Canon (http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/products/security_video_solutions/network_cameras)

GE (Unknown Website Address)

Honeywell (http://www.honeywellvideo.com/products/cameras/ip/index.html)

JVC (http://pro.jvc.com/prof/attributes/category.jsp?productId=PRO5.2)

Panasonic (http://www.panasonic.com/business/psna/products-surveillance-monitoring/index.aspx)

Pelco (http://www.pelco.com/sites/global/en/home.page)

Samsung (https://www.samsung-security.com/)

Sony (http://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/mkt-security/)

Toshiba (http://www.toshibasecurity.com/)

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IR Illuminators:

Raytec (http://www.rayteccctv.com/)

Axton (http://www.axtontech.com/)

Iluminar (http://www.iluminarinc.com/)

+Other Generic Brands

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Accessories:

PoE Switch (Unmanaged, or Managed which allows remote powering on/off of specific ports) (TRENDnet, Netgear, D-Link, Cisco, Axis, etc.)

Ethernet Cable (Regular/Burial Grade)

Lenses (C/CS/S/D Mounts)

IR Illuminators (Discussed Above)

Enclosures (Pelco, Videolarm, Axis, Generic Brand, etc.)

PIR Sensor (Optex, Bosch, etc)

UPS Battery Backup System

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Popular Places To Buy:

[Redacted – do a search on the forum for general ideas ]

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Video Recording Software:

ACTi VMS (Free) – Only supports ACTi Cameras.

Avigilon (Per channel: Core ~$100, Standard ~$200, Enterprise ~$350) – Purchase through authorized dealers.

Axis Camera Companion (Free) – Only supports certain (newer) Axis Cameras. 16 cameras max.

Axis Camera Station (~$90/license)

Axxon Next (Free for 16 channels) (http://www.axxonsoft.com/products/axxon_next/)

BlueIris ($29.95 – $49.95) (http://blueirissoftware.com/) – Supports a large variety of network cameras.

exacqVision ($50 – $150/license + $25 yearly for optional updates)

Genetec (Expensive)

Geovision (Free)

Luxriot ($99 – $1000+)

Milestone XProtect (Free – $1000+)

Mobotix Control Center (Free) – Supports other cameras for viewing. May be able to record with MXServer.

OnSSI (Unknown)

Vitamin D (Free/$49/$199) (http://www.vitamindinc.com/index.php) – PC + Mac Compatible

Zoneminder (Free) – Open source Linux software.

…Etc, Most Manufactures Provide Their Own Software.

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Network Video Recorders (NVR’s)/NAS Stations:

Synology (1 License Included – ~$50 /per additional license)

Dahua

QNAP

Luxriot

NUUO

Hikvision

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iPhone Viewing Apps:

Netcam Viewer (Free/$5.99) (http://bit.ly/18UfXMs)

Live Cams Pro ($1.99) (http://bit.ly/19RAleQ)

QCamPro ($7.99) (http://bit.ly/14iCWxR)

Official Mobotix (Free) (http://bit.ly/15XNtmo)

IP Cam Viewer Pro ($3.99) (http://bit.ly/10QAwYn)

Dahua iDMSS Lite (Free) (http://bit.ly/110ZjmV)

Dahua iDMSS Plus ($4.99) (http://bit.ly/12FyWpw)

+Specific Manufacturer’s Apps (Q-See, Hikvision, etc) (Search Manually) – Typically better integrated then 3rd party apps.

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Android Viewing Apps:

IP Cam Viewer Pro ($3.99) (http://bit.ly/TG6OyB)

Dahua gDMSS Lite (Free) (http://bit.ly/12zjvAs)

Dahua gDMSS Plus ($5.00) (http://bit.ly/12FzfAA)

+Specific Manufacturer’s Apps (Q-See, Hikvision, etc) (Search Manually) – Typically better integrated then 3rd party apps.

The Ultimate IP Camera Guide v3.

Review Sites/Sample Videos:

Network Camera Critic (http://www.networkcameracritic.com/)

Mateusz CCTVnerd (http://www.youtube.com/user/mateuszfen)

Megapixel Cameras – Images and Demos (viewtopic.php?f=19&t=11322)

Plazor (http://www.plazor.com)

Axis YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/AxisCommunications)

Avigilon YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/Avigilon)

MXInstaller (http://www.mxinstaller.com/)

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Companies That Rebrand/Resell:

Swann (Rebrands Hikvision Equipment)

Lorex (Rebrands Hikvision Equipment)

Q-See (Rebrands Dahua Equipment)

Toshiba (Appears To Rebrand Vivotek)

Cisco (Sometimes Rebrands Pelco)

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Other Helpful Links:

CCTV Lens Calculator (http://www.jvsg.com/online/#)

Identification And Recognition Guide (http://www.axis.com/academy/identification/index.htm) – Make sure you have the correct resolution for your application.

Security Today – IP Cameras (http://security-today.com/directory/list/ip-video.aspx)

CCTV Frame Rates Comparison (

) – Recordings don’t necessarily have to be 30fps for desired results.

IP Video 101 Training (http://ipvm.com/report/ip_video_training_course_101)

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Live Demo Cameras:

Mobotix Cameras (http://www.mobotix.ro/live-ro-p-3.html) or (http://comsurv.com/live-video-cameras/)

Axis Cameras (http://www.axis.com/camerademo/) or (http://ipcameralive.com/)

Mixture (http://camelive.info)

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Terminology:

CBR: “Constant bit rate [encoding] means that the rate at which a codec’s output data should be consumed is constant.” (i.e. the amount of data flowing from camera to user/nvr is always constant – even during movement or lack thereof. [See also VBR])

DSD: (http://www.dsdcctv.com/)

DVR: “a consumer electronics device or application software that records video in a digital format to a disk drive, USB flash drive, SD memory card or other local or networked mass storage device.”

Edge Recording: “The concept of taking audio/video from a camera, and storing it at the edge of the Ethernet network instead of transporting it across the network to a centralized recording facility such as a Network Video Recorder.” (Most cameras have this ability now.)

IR/IR Illuminator: LED’s (often a separate device) which provide illumination for cameras in near to total darkness. The light produced cannot be seen by the human eye. The camera must be sensitive to IR for this to be useful (some cameras have ‘fixed’ IR cut filters). ‘White light’ illuminators are also available. These produce light visible to the human eye and to a camera with or without an IR cut filter.

LPR/ANPR/AVI/CPR/LAPI: “A mass surveillance method that uses optical character recognition on images to read vehicle registration plates.”

NAS: Basically a box filled with hard drives for storage of data. Some cameras have the ability to record directly to these networked boxes without the need for an always on or dedicated computer.

NVR: “A software program that records video in a digital format to a disk drive, USB flash drive, SD memory card or other mass storage device.”

ONVIF: “Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) is a global and open industry forum with the goal to facilitate the development and use of a global open standard for the interface of physical IP-based security products.”

PIR: Passive Infrared “is an electronic sensor that measures infrared (IR) light radiating from objects in its field of view. They are most often used in PIR-based motion detectors.”

PoE: “A system to safely pass electrical power, along with data, on Ethernet cabling.”

UPS: “uninterruptible power supply…is an electrical apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source, typically mains power, fails.”

VBR: “Variable bit rate files vary the amount of output data per time segment.” (i.e. Less data during still scenes, more data during high movement periods.)

WDR: “‘Wide dynamic range’ describes an attribute of an imaging system which can capture greater scene details from shadows to highlights than normal.”

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Commonly Asked Questions:

Q: “Which brand or manufacturer should I buy?”

A: Each brand has its strengths and weakness, whether it be price, size, low light capabilities, resolution, frame rate, support, software, compatibility, etc. There really isn’t one magical brand or camera. Each security scenario is different and requires a unique solution.

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Q: “Where can I buy an IP HD PTZ Outdoor Camera for $200?”

A: Probably not going to happen. PTZ cameras are expensive because of all the motors, belts, gears, and such. Perhaps instead consider using several fixed multi-megapixel HD cameras instead for coverage.

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Q: “How do I embed/add video from a camera to a website?”

A: See: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=1290 or http://bit.ly/10rC8WV

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Q: “How do I view my cameras on my TV/Monitor?

A: Consider using an Android powered HDMI dongle. These mini computers are powerful and compact enough to be attached to a TV or monitor for camera viewing using an Android app. Also see: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=1049

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Q: “Should I buy a Foscam?”

A: These cameras are not typically discussed here because of their poor reliability and feature set. They are often cloned and copied making firmware updates and support hard to come by. So in short, probably not. However if you are just starting with IP cameras, many members have since upgraded from these over time to bigger and better.

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Q: “How do I view my camera(s) from the internet?”

A: You need to setup your router for port forwarding. Here are several guides to assist you. See: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=124 or http://bit.ly/184DTvf

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Q: “What shutter speed should I use during low light/night?”

A: “Typically 1/30 of a second is as low as you would want to have it set. Any longer and moving objects will be blurry making the footage less then useful.

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Q: “Should I use a wireless camera for my application?”

A: Wifi signals, especially at long distances, can drop or become unreliable. They also become targets of hacking “resulting in free access to your personal cameras (EXTREMLY DANGEROUS) or blocked cameras, ones that will not record anything.” It is best to use a hardwired connection via cable for installations. PoE installation can supply signal and power over one cable for easy installation. If a cable is not an option consider using a dedicated wifi access point, like the type made by Ubiquiti Networks.

Technical Guide to IP Cameras– Overview, Types, Applications

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An IP camera (Internet Protocol Camera) is a type of security camera that receives video data and sends video footage via an IP network. It is also known as network camera or IP security camera, often used as remote monitoring and management tools in many sectors and environments to protect the property or monitor home, business, or public security. Connected with other devices such as network video recorders and displays via a network, IP cameras allow you to monitor specific areas from any remote location, bringing much convenience to our daily lives.

How Does An IP Camera Work?

IP cameras work the same way as digital cameras to capture high-quality images. What sets them apart is the capability of IP cameras to compress those files and automatically transmit them to a network video recorder (NVR) via a network. Usually, IP cameras are connected to the network via ethernet cable with a broadband modem or router, or wirelessly via a Wi-Fi router.

In a building that has already been equipped with a network, all you have to do is to connect the IP surveillance cameras and other devices into your network system, just the same way that you would do when you connect your laptop or cell phone to your Wi-Fi.

After everything is well connected, the cameras can start working, capturing and sending video footage to the network video recorder.

Four Common Types of IP Camera

There are various video surveillance solutions, in which many different types of security cameras are adopted. Among those surveillance cameras, there are four most commonly used ones, dome cameras, bullet cameras, and turret cameras. Knowing more about the differences among dome vs bullet vs turret vs fisheye cameras will help you find out the one that fits you most.

Four Important Specifications of IP Cameras

When looking for a security camera, not only should you decide on the type of it, but also you need to notice that the specifications can make a huge difference. There are four of the most essential specifications.

Resolution

The resolution of IP cameras is the total number of pixels that make up an image, which is usually measured by the width and height of the image. The most common resolutions of security cameras are 720p, 1080p, 5MP, 4K and 8MP. Usually, higher resolutions mean that there are more pixels per inch (PPI), resulting in a high-quality, crisp image.

Field of View

The lens of an IP camera allows you to frame an area that you want to spot. Different lens systems come with different fields of view, which determines how wide an area you can see. A wider field of view will allow the camera to spot a larger area. Typically, for a large parking lot and a small room, you will need lenses with different viewing angles.

Focal Length

The focal length of a lens, which is measured in “mm”, determines the angle of view and how far the camera can see. There are two types of lens, fixed lens and varifocal lens. The most common fixed focal length is 3.6mm, which leads to a 90° view angle and a distance of 20 feet. There is also 8mm lens with a 40° view angle and identification distance of 40 feet. For varifocal lenses, the most common ones are 2.8-12mm lenses.

At 2.8mm you get around 100° view angle, with only around 10-feet identification distance. At 12mm you will achieve around a 30° angle of view and identification at around 50 feet. The wider the focal length, the further away it can focus and the narrower the field of view.

Low Light Sensitivity

Low-light sensitivity, usually measured in Lux(lx), refers to the ability of a camera to provide high-quality images even in low-light conditions by presenting details and reducing noise in the output images. There are few factors contributing to the low light performance of a camera, including pixel size, signal-to-noise ratio, lens aperture, etc. A lower Lux has the ability to present high-quality images in darker areas. For example, cameras with 100-1,000lx are applied to record under work-space light, while cameras with 0.0001lx are usually adopted for moonless nights or overcast nights.

Most Popular IP Camera Applications

Home Use

For those looking for tools to get close with their families, monitor family security or protect family property, IP cameras are always a go-for item. Many homeowners equip their families with a video surveillance system to make themselves and their families feel safer.

The IP cameras installed in home security systems have been used to serve a number of purposes. For example, they can be installed near the front door to capture the image of each one who steps into or sneaks around the house, or installed in the backyard to catch a view of their families’ happy moments, or installed inside the room, to make sure their baby is being well taken care of, etc.

Business Use

Commercial security cameras are often used in business buildings, supermarkets, shops, restaurants, etc. For business owners, security cameras can not only protect their property to ensure normal operations and prevent criminal acts with real-time monitoring, but also can keep them connected with daily operations and employee safety.

Outdoor perimeter security can also be maintained with video surveillance solutions to monitor the surroundings. Compared to traditional systems, commercial IP video surveillance systems offer greater reliability and security with built-in encryption, data compression, network connection, and cybersecurity measures.

Public Safety

Surveillance cameras play an important role in managing public rules, protecting public safety and property. It’s not difficult to find that there are plenty of monitoring cameras along the traffic roads, parking lots and around the governments or hospitals. Moreover, there are lots of public areas deployed with security cameras, including schools, parks, communities, neighborhoods, etc.

Conclusion

IP cameras have become a dispensable part of home, business or public surveillance systems. With the proper video management software, the video recorded by IP cameras can be viewed from anywhere worldwide via the network, whether using a laptop or a mobile phone. In many cases, IP cameras can also be controlled remotely, adding much convenience to our lives.

There are various types of security cameras that are designed for specific applications, and that’s why you need to take several factors into consideration when purchasing IP cameras for your security system. Before the next step, it would be better to figure out your budget and your requirements first.

Guide to Understanding IP Cameras

Welcome to a venture into the captivating digital world of Internet Protocol (IP) cameras. Whether you’re considering investing in this game-changing technology or you’re simply eager to boost your tech acumen, we’ve got your covered. Untangling complex technical jargon and translating it into simple language, this blog post will chart your course through the depths of understanding IP cameras.

What is an IP Camera?

An IP camera , also known as a network camera, is a digital video tool that sends and receives data via the internet. Unlike its analogue predecessor, the CCTV (Closed Circuit TV), it offers the functionality to view live or recorded footage from anywhere, anytime using a web-based platform or mobile application. Think of IP camera as the digital evolution.

Advantages of the IP Camera

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Understanding IP Camera Operation

Let’s dive deeper into how these fantastic little devices work.

Capturing Images

The essence of an IP security camera is in its lens, sensor, and processor. The lens focuses on the light emanating from the surroundings, which then hits a digital sensor. This sensor transforms the received light into an electronic signal that the processor can turn into a digital video stream.

Sending Images

The key difference between an IP camera and previous systems lies in its ingenious use of the Internet Protocol. Instead of sending unprocessed data to a recorder, IP cameras encode and process the signal on the device before transmitting it to be stored or viewed over the network. This reduces the workload for the recorder, enhancing the system’s efficiency.

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Most Popular Types of IP Cameras

Not all IP cameras are created equal, of course. Different styles suit different needs. Here’s a quick classification of the most commonly used types:

Bullet Cameras

These are named for their cylindrical shape, resembling a bullet. Bullet cameras are great for monitoring both wide focused areas such as entrances or small rooms.

Dome Cameras

Identified by their dome shape, these cameras provide a wider viewing angle ideal for bigger spaces like living rooms or stores.  Some come with adjustable lenses to hone in on important areas.

PTZ Cameras

PTZ stands for Pan-Tilt-Zoom. A PTZ IP camera provides the functionality to remotely control the movement and zoom of the camera, making it perfect for large, open spaces.

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IP Camera Installation: Tips and Tricks

Installing an IP camera isn’t rocket science. Here are some friendly tips to ensure you obtain the best surveillance results:

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Securing Your IP Camera

In an increasingly digital world, security is paramount. Here are a few guidelines to secure your IP camera system:

Change the Default Password

On purchase, devices often come with generic login credentials. It’s essential to change these immediately to a unique and complex password.

Regular Firmware Updates

Stay up-to-date with the latest firmware version provided by the manufacturer. This ensures your device is protected from any known loopholes.

Effective Network Security

Ensure your home or business network security is robust. Use established security measures such as firewalls and secure Wi-Fi protocols.

The captivating world of IP cameras offers the potential for superior surveillance solutions. The charm of hands-on control combined with the convenience of remote access can revolutionize how we approach security. Yet, it is crucial to remember that with great power comes great responsibility. In this digital age, securing our devices should always be a priority. Embrace the technology but don’t forget to keep it secure. Welcome to the future of surveillance.

editor’s note: The application supports many brands and models. The main models are included in the article. We explained our guide through the Amcrest system.

Blue Iris User Manual

To download a full user manual for Blue Iris 5, click on the link provided below.

Blue Iris 5 User Manual

How To Upgrade Blue Iris Demo Software With An Amcrest License Without Losing Settings

If you are currently using a demo version of the Amcrest Blue Iris software upgrading your account will not reset your settings. All settings will be retained on the software after the upgrade is complete. For more information on how to upgrade your demo version of Blue Iris to paid version, please follow the steps provided below.

Step 1: Open your Blue Iris software and click on the Settings option (  ) in the upper left corner of the interface and click on Settings/info.

Step 2: In the About tab, click on the Register now option.

Step 3: In the Activation screen, click Next

Step 4: Enter the Amcrest license number or key you have purchased into the activation box. Click Next to continue.

Step 5: Click Finish once the code has been activated.

Step 5: The new license key has now been applied to your Blue Iris software. The information can be viewed in the License Key section of the menu. Click OK to continue.

The “Evaluation Copy” overlay will be removed from the live view screen and your previous settings will be accessible throughout the software.

Blue Iris 5 Compatibility

To install the Blue Iris 5 software onto your computer, go to the Blue Iris website and download the installation file .

Minimum Requirements

Recommendations When Using Many and/or HD Cameras

Compatible with the Following Brands:

Amcrest, 4XEM, ACTT, Airlink101, AIRLive, Allnet, Apexis, Arecont, Astak, AVTech, Avlosys, Axis, Bosch, Canon, Cisco, Coolcam, Dericam, Di4-Lan, DLink, EasyN, Edimax, Evocam, Foscam, Gadspot, Ganz, Gandstream, Hawking, HIKVision, HooToo, Intellinet, JVC, Linksys, Logitech, Lorex, Microseven, Mobotix, Panasonic, Pelco, Planet, Sanyo, Sharx, Siemens, Sony, Stardot, Swann, Toshiba, Tenvis, TO-LINK, Trendnet, Vivotel, Wansview, Y-Cam, Zavio, Zonet and many more.

For more information on how to install the Blue Iris 5 software, click here.

Blue Iris UI3 update Issue

If you are attempting to update to a new version of the Blue Iris software and receive an error such as:

this is not a result of a bug or issue with the software itself but is a result of an update made to Visual Studio C++ compiler which is the software used to build Blue Iris. To resolve the issue, a simple reinstall of the software will fix the problem, however, if you wish to resolve the issue without reinstalling the software, please refer to the information below.

A resolution will be based on the which version of Windows you are running. For instance, if you are operating on a 64-bit version of Windows you will need to search and run the VCREDIST_X64.exe to resolve the issue. If you have a 32 bit system you will run the VCREDIST_X32.exe.

If this file is not found on your computer you may run it from the following URL blueirissoftware.com/VCREDIST_X64.exe (or VCREDIST_X32.exe for 32 bit).

Step 1: Load the VCREDIST .exe file and click Run

Step 2: Click on Install.

Step 3: A restart of your computer will be required to complete the install. Click on Restart to restart your computer.

After your computer has finished restarting please load the Blue Iris software and run the update as normal. If this does not fix the issue a full re-install of the software may be required. To re-install the Blue Iris software on your computer, access the Control Panel and click on “Uninstall a program”.

Locate the Blue Iris Software from the Programs and Features list and click Uninstall. Select “Yes” to remove Blue Iris from your computer. For more information on how to install Blue Iris on your computer click

Note: It is recommended to not delete any registry entries or license activations during this process.

Click Finish, to restart your computer and complete the uninstall.

For more information on how to install the Blue Iris software on your computer, click here.

Blue Iris Not Automatically Starting up After a Crash?

If your Blue Iris software crashes or becomes unresponsive and the software does not restart automatically with its last settings displayed then the software may need to be ran as a Windows service. By default, Blue Iris 5 is not set to run as a Windows service so therefore would have to be implemented manually. For more information on how to set Blue Iris as a Windows service, refer to the information provided below.

Step 1: Open Blue Iris 5 and click on the settings menu located in the upper left corner of the screen.

Step 2: In the Settings menu, click on the Startup tab.

Inside the Startup tab, make sure the “Use last window position” option is selected in the Window field then click on the “Run as a Windows service (no UI, run again for console)” checkbox. This will enable your software to run as a Windows service. Click OK to continue.

Step 3: The service will install automatically. Click OK to reboot or restart the Blue Iris software.

The software is now running as a Windows service which allows the software to reboot with last settings in tact after a crash or service interruption.

How to Add a Camera Into Blue Iris

The camera and the computer you are using must be on the same network during setup. Please make sure you are running the most current version of Blue Iris during setup. The latest version of Blue Iris can be downloaded here.

There are 2 ways to add a camera into Blue Iris. You can right click on the main menu, or click on the settings menu (  )in the top-left corner of the interface.

Adding a Camera

To begin, right-click on the main interface or click on the settings menu () to access the “New camera” menu.

In the new camera menu, give your camera a name, a short name (for URLs and filenames), choose a type, which in this case will be a Network IP, and enable any options such as, enabling audio, motion detection, etc. Click OK to continue.

This will open two windows. The top window will be Network IP Camera Configuration. Enter the address of your camera (IP Domain or DDNS as well as RTSP address) and click on the Find/Inspect… button on the right to confirm. Enter the username and password, select the make as Amcrest, select the model of your device (ProHD and HDseries cameras as “ProHD 1080p RTSP/HTTP”), and specify the RTSP and ONVIF ports.

Note: If you choose the other option profile, “ProHD/IP2/3/4/4M Mainstream RTSP” features such as PTZ or other related features may not be accessible. Please use ProHD 1080P RTSP/HTTP in the Model field.

After filling in the information required, click OK. The second window will appear titled New Camera. Here you can make many adjustments to the way you want Blue Iris to configure your camera.

The page is defaulted to the Video tab. The options available for adjustment are Image Format and Frame Rate, PTZ Controls, Recording through Blue Iris, Alerts through Blue Iris, and other features. Once you have finished adjusting any necessary settings, click on OK to add the camera. The live view screen of your camera will show in the interface.

How to Renew a Key in Blue Iris 5

Any expired keys in the Blue Iris 5 software will cause the software not to work with any connected cameras and may cause them to be inaccessible. Keys in the Blue Iris software provide up to one year of service from the initial start date of your license and will need to be renewed before they expire.

Note: Please ensure you are using the most up to date version of Blue Iris. To download the most up to date version of Blue Iris, click here.

For more information on how to renew your Blue Iris key, please refer to the steps provided below.

Step 1: Click on the settings menu (  ) located in the top-left corner of the interface and select “Settings”.

Step 2: In the bottom left corner of the Blue Iris Settings menu, click on the Upgrade/renew button to renew the key for your license.

Note: The new expiration date will be displayed in the menu and will be good for one year of the initial start date.

When you have purchased or renewed your account you will receive a new code in your email. Once the new key provided is entered into the Activation menu, press the “OK” button.

How To Install Blue Iris 5

To install the Blue Iris 5 software onto your computer, go to the Blue Iris website and download the installation file .

Minimum Requirements

Recommendations When Using Many and/or HD Cameras

Compatible with the Following Brands:

Amcrest, 4XEM, ACTT, Airlink101, AIRLive, Allnet, Apexis, Arecont, Astak, AVTech, Avlosys, Axis, Bosch, Canon, Cisco, Coolcam, Dericam, Di4-Lan, DLink, EasyN, Edimax, Evocam, Foscam, Gadspot, Ganz, Gandstream, Hawking, HIKVision, HooToo, Intellinet, JVC, Linksys, Logitech, Lorex, Microseven, Mobotix, Panasonic, Pelco, Planet, Sanyo, Sharx, Siemens, Sony, Stardot, Swann, Toshiba, Tenvis, TO-LINK, Trendnet, Vivotel, Wansview, Y-Cam, Zavio, Zonet and many more.

Follow the on screen instructions to install the software. You can use the demo version or purchase a license. There is are options for a fill license (up to 64 cameras) for $69.95 or a Lite license for a single camera for $34.95.

Note:  Any Blue Iris keys that have expired support have to be renewed or upgraded for it to work in Blue Iris version 5. Additionally, if you are upgrading from version 4, please allow access and remove version 4 from your system. Please say NO to deleting any of your settings. Settings are automatically backed up to C:\Program Files\Blue Iris5\backup_upgrade_50.reg. Click OK to continue.

Now that you have your software installed, it’s time to start adding your cameras. Ensure that you have already installed your cameras and they are working correctly in a web browser. For more information on how to access your camera in a web browser (web UI), click here

If you have any PTZ cameras, go ahead and set the presets, if any, now through the web interface before adding them to Blue Iris. The Blue Iris interface is shown below:

For more information about adding a camera into the Blue Iris software click here

How to Enable Two Way Audio Using Blue Iris

If your camera supports two-way audio and you are using it in Blue Iris, two-way audio can be configured directly in the software. Please make sure a compatible microphone is set up and configured on your computer before enabling it in Blue Iris. For more information on how to enable two-way audio using Blue Iris please refer to the information provided below.

Step 1: Log into Blue Iris and access the device.

Step 2: Click on the Blue Iris software settings icon.

Step 3: Click on the Audio tab and enable the Enable audio capture hardware option.

Note: Make sure the proper microphone is selected in the Device dropdown menu.  Use the Gain slider to adjust and test the microphone audio.

Step 4: Select the proper output device for your computer in the Output (Device) dropdown menu and click OK.

Step 5: On the main interface click the speaker option to hear the audio from the device. Then click and hold the microphone icon and speak into the microphone.

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Here’s a breakdown of the concept:

There are different levels of sophistication in IP camera analytics and detection. Here are some examples:

IP camera analytics and detection can be a valuable tool for security and surveillance applications. It can help to reduce false alarms, improve efficiency, and provide more actionable insights from video footage.

People Analytics

People Analytics

Learn how to use Verkada People Analytics to filter people by specific attributes

Updated over a week ago

The Verkada People Analytics feature uses powerful edge-based camera capabilities to detect people, faces, and filter results based on clothing color, apparent sex, and the presence of backpacks.

Note: See User Guide for People Analytics for best practice guidelines.

Enable the People History feature

All Verkada cameras perform people detection (as outlined above) out of the box. However, to enable more complex analytics, such as the ability to search for faces or for people by clothing color, you must enable the People History feature.

Required. To begin, you need to enable the feature globally on your org and then on the individual cameras.

Enable People Analytics Globally

Enable People Analytics on individual cameras

View Person History

When enabled, a Person History can be seen on individual cameras and across all cameras in your organization.

IP Camera Analytics and Detection Setup Guide v1

View Person History for an individual camera

View Person History across all cameras

Use Face Search

When enabled, a Face Search can be seen across all cameras in your organization and on the Verkada Command mobile app.

Use Face Search across all cameras

The Face Search feature is enabled, by default, when you toggle on High Resolution Image Capture. You can search a face across all cameras in your organization.

Use Face Search on the Command mobile app

See Face Search on Mobile Apps to perform a face search on the Command mobile app.

Bulk enable People History on the Devices page

People and Face Search on Mobile Apps

People and Face Search on Mobile Apps

Learn how to use people and faces on Verkada mobile apps

Updated over a week ago

Access People History search

Access a Face Search

License Plate Recognition Overview & FAQ

License Plate Recognition Overview & FAQ

Learn the License Plate Recognition functionality and use cases

Updated over a week ago

Specially-placed cameras are designed to capture license plate images and provide users with a readable and searchable list of license plate numbers. These license plate captures can be linked to live or recorded video from a nearby camera for complete context surrounding vehicle events.

Verkada’s License Plate Recognition (LPR) allows real-time license plate monitoring and logging for later reference. Learn how to configure LPR for your cameras.

Notes:

Key features

Investigate License Plates of Interest

You can use LPR to quickly search for all historical appearances of a license plate, making it easier to complete investigations for suspect vehicles.

Receive License Plates of Interest alerts

With Verkada’s LPR solution, you can receive License Plate of Interest alerts when a specific license plate is detected at any of your locations. You can also send these notifications to third-party applications through the Verkada Webhooks API.

Export results via API integrations

Verkada’s LPR results can be systematically exported to third party systems leveraging our API integrations. This allows customers to run custom business reports or integrate with other critical parts of their security infrastructure.

FAQ

Will Gen 1 Bullet cameras provide the same level of LPR performance as the current, Gen 2 models?

Is it possible to use cameras in LPR mode for video security beyond LPR mode?

Is it necessary to use a Bullet camera as the context camera in a dual-camera LPR setup?

What is the function of a context camera and when is it necessary to use one?

When is it necessary to use an external IR illuminator for capturing license plates and what model should I choose?

What is the camera’s behavior in the event of an internet outage?

Is it possible to integrate a Verkada LPR camera into an external system, such as a tolling system?

What types of license plates are incompatible with Verkada’s LPR technology?

Why is my camera feed too dark at night?

Enable Vehicle Analytics

Vehicle analytics uses powerful edge-based capabilities to detect vehicles and filter results based on vehicle color and body type.

How it Works

Vehicle analytics leverages the cameras’ powerful onboard processing capabilities to detect the presence of, and analyze the properties of vehicles as they appear in the frame. As vehicles are detected, high-resolution images are taken and analyzed for vehicle objects. Selected images are then sent to Verkada’s cloud-based Command platform, where users can filter historical clips for vehicles and search for specific vehicles by time, date, body type, and color.

All Verkada cameras perform vehicle detection (as outlined above) out of the box. However, to enable more complex analytics, such as the ability to search for vehicles by color and body type, vehicle analytics must be turned on.

1.In Verkada Command, go to All Products > Cameras.

2.Select a camera.

3.Select Settings> Analytics.

4.Toggle on Vehicle History.

Bulk enable People History from the Devices Page

Vehicle analytics for an individual camera

Vehicle analytics across all cameras

People and Vehicle Motion Search

People and Vehicle Motion Search

Learn now to search paths of people and vehicles with advanced motion search

Updated yesterday

Verkada’s people and vehicle search features use advanced computer vision functionality to identify people and vehicles within the camera’s field of view and quickly find relevant events.

The Verkada Command UI enables instant video replay previews and trajectory viewing. Trajectory analysis features offers possibilities for searching events, reduces the number of missed detections, improves the detection distance, and reduces duplicates.

View people and vehicles over a timeline

Required. You must have Site Viewer and Site Admin access to view the Motion tab under the camera feed. Learn more about Roles and Permissions for Cameras.

You can view people and vehicles detected by a Verkada camera within historical footage.

1.In Verkada Command, go to All Products > Cameras.

2.Select a camera to view its feed.

3.At the top, click Motion.

4.To the right, click Show Pathsto toggle on/off the feature.

5.(Optional) Make a selection on the video player grid to search for motion in the area.

6.(Optional) Use the People, Vehicle, and Date filters for more granular searches

7.Hovering over a thumbnail with the people or vehicle filters selected gives a count of the people/vehicles in the frame with an option to archive the clip. By hovering over the previews, you can see tracks for the individual.

8.Click the thumbnail to be taken to the exact time in the recorded footage.

Note: People and/or vehicles will only be available if these objects were detected in the camera frame.

View people trajectories (paths)

The people trajectories feature visualizes the paths of people moving through the scene to show the trajectories of each detected person.

Trajectories drastically improve the motion event recall and enable the cameras to recognize people and vehicles at a further distance. For a detailed breakdown of the detection ranges of each model, see the People Analytics Guide.

1.In Verkada Command, go to All Products > Cameras.

2.Select a camera to view its feed.

3.At the top, click Motion.

4.(Optional) Make a selection on the video player grid to search for motion in the area.

5.Select the People or Vehicle filter to see the trajectories.

Compatible cameras

The following table outlines which camera models support Motion Events, which models support Motion Trajectories, and where the motion model is running. Newer camera models have the capability to run the motion detection model on the camera, whereas D-series cameras still rely on the Verkada Cloud to run the model.

People and Vehicle History Search

People and Vehicle History Search

Learn how to use the Search page to view all people and vehicles in your organization

Updated over a week ago

You can use the People and Vehicle search pages to:

Search for people

See also how to search for people using our mobile apps.

Search for People of Interest

Set People of Interest notifications

To receive alerts for People of Interest, you need to set up alert based on your events.

IMPORTANT

People of Interest replaced Profiles on June 8, 2023. Profiles created before this date that were not set as People of Interest are not automatically send People of Interest alerts.

To set up notifications when a particular face is detected:

Create People of Interest

You can manually create a People of Interest group by uploading an image of a person’s face.

Merge People of Interest

Sometimes duplicate People of Interest are accidentally created. If this happens, you can merge the duplicate People of Interest profiles.

Create a new tag to People of Interest

You can create and add tags to People of Interest to group similar profiles together.

Type the desired name and at the bottom of the tag list, click Add Tags.

Add a tag to a user’s profile

Select the profile and select the plus (+) icon (adjacent to the Tags button). If the tag you want to add is already in the list, you can select it from the list.

Filter a tag name

Remove a person of interest

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Search for vehicles

Search all license plates

If you have Verkada License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras installed, you can use the All License Plates and License Plates of Interest tabs.

Enable Occupancy Trends

The Occupancy Trends feature provides organizations with an estimate of the foot traffic at critical locations within their facilities. These estimates can provide valuable insights for optimizing staffing, adjusting hours of operation, and or tracking the

performance of marketing and promotional activities.

Note: This feature is available on the CB52, CB62, CM42, CD32, CD42, CD52, and CD62 models.

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Installation guidelines

Required. To use this feature, People Analytics must be enabled. To do so, follow the steps in the People Analytics guide.

For best performance, we recommend these installation guidelines during the installation of a camera where Occupancy Trends will be enabled:

1.In Verkada Command, go to All Products > Cameras.

2.Select a camera and go to the camera’s Settings page.

3.Scroll down to the Analytics section and toggle on Occupancy Trends.

4.Return to the camera’s main page and select the Analytics tab (displayed below the camera’s live feed).

5.Click Add lines to open the wizard.

6.Click and drag the camera view to draw a line across the screen. You can draw multiple lines, though data from all lines are aggregated.

7.Click one of the dropdown menus (displayed near the arrow heads) to change how users crossing in that direction are counted. The Ignore option indicates that users crossing this direction are not counted by the Occupancy Trends feature.

8.After you set up the lines for the camera’s view, click Save.

View Occupancy Trend estimates

Export Occupancy Trends results

You can export Occupancy Trends results as a .csv file.

1.Go to the Analytics tab.

2.At the top right, click Downloadto automatically download your occupancy trends results.

View Live Motion on Floor Plans

View Live Motion on Floor Plans

Learn how you can view live motion on your floor plan in real-time

Updated over a week ago

Verkada’s motion display feature offers two ways to see live motion on your site’s floor plans in real-time.

Set up motion detection

With motion detection, the camera’s field of view pulses when motion is seen. This happens in real-time.

1.In Verkada Command, go to All Products > Floorplans.

2.Select the building and floor plan you want to monitor.

3.On Floorplans, at the bottom right, click Motion Detection.

Example: Selected Floor Plan

Detect People Count

Detect People Count

Learn how to detect the number of people in your camera frame

Updated over a week ago

When you scrub through a Verkada camera’s historical video clips:

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How to Upgrade the firmware on DVR/NVR System?

This FAQ is for DVR/NVR, not for the camera.

There are 2 methods to upgrade the firmware of DVR/NVR. We suggest you use method 1. Please contact technical support to get an upgrading file first.

Here you can check the system’s current firmware build date. After upgrading, you can check if the build date changed.

Method 1

1. Copy the firmware file to a USB disk.

2. Insert USB disk to the USB port of DVR.

3. Go to the menu to upgrade.

Method 2

1. Connect your DVR/NVR to a router with a network cable.

2. Use a computer which also connected to the same router as DVR/NVR is connected to install upgrading software.

software download link support.annke.com/document/XM/General/tool/device_manager.exe

3. Run the software to upgrade.

Latest XMEYE firmware

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Client Downloading and Installation

Please visit https://xmeye.org/xmeye-for-pc/ to download and install the VMS Client following the setup wizard.

Add the DVR system to the Client

Option 1: Add the DVR system automatically

Please make sure the DVR system and your PC are connected with the same router.

Step 1:

Please log in to the client with the default User Name (admin) and Password (admin).

Step 2:

Click OK to add the DVR system automatically.

Step 3:

Tap YES on the pop-up window of “This operation may modify the device’s IP address, whether to continue?”

Step 4:

The DVR you added will be listed on the interface of Device Manager after 10s searching.

Invalid Password:

The VMS Client cannot load the password of the DVR system automatically, you need to modify it by clicking .

Connected:

The DVR system is ready to use.

Offline:

Please check if the DVR system and PC are connected to the same router.

Timeout:

Network may be disconnected, please click to refresh.

Option 2 : Add the DVR system manually

Step 1:

Click Manual Add at the lower left corner on the interface of Device Manager.

Step 2:

Change the Login Type from IP to CloudID and enter the required information on the interface of Add Device.

Device Name:

Set a name for the DVR.

CLOUD ID:

Also called Serial Number. You can get it from Startup Wizard or by accessing System > Version.

Password:

Enter the password you set for the DVR system.

Live Video

Please click Home > Live View to view the live videos from all channels.

Video Recording

You can go to Home > OPERATION > Record Settings to set the disk in which the video will be saved for VMS Client.

Please go to Home > ADVANCE > Record Plan to set the detailed record plan.

Notes:

Video Playback

Click Home > Playback to check all the videos recorded.

Check the box before the channel(s) you prefer, select Type of the video, select the Begin and End time, then click Search to list the filtered videos.

Double click on the selected video files to play the video or select one video file, then click button to play the video.

Video Downloading(Backup)

Stay on the interface of Video Playback, click to download the selected video, while click to download the video fragment by time period in this video file. The file you downloaded will be saved to the default path on the PC.

You can go to Home > SETTINGS > Systems Config to modify the path.

The format of the file you downloaded is H264 and the file is encrypted. It only can be played by the exclusive media player and you can download it from here

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Note: The product firmware can be divided into two categories: DVR and IPC, among which the DVR firmware includes NVR, DVR, and ADVR programs How to find the corresponding firmware

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DVR XVR Firmware

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IP CAMERA FIRMWARE

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JUFENG FIRMWARES

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BOUTIQUE PROGRAM FIRMWARE

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HZXM WIN10 STYLE FIRMWARES

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WIFI NVR FIRMWARE

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NEW SILVER STYLE FIRMWARE