Simple IP Migration Path for Analog Users
By Allan Markoff
Before an end user with a legacy surveillance system can even consider a video management system (VMS) they must upgrade to a networked solution or begin the process of doing so. In the case of a budget-strapped campus, asking them to tear out their existing analog system in order to begin using IP cameras is simply not prudent. In a great majority of cases, the campus can instead begin exploiting the benefits of IP by using a hybrid system that amortizes the costs of presently-installed analog CCTV equipment.
Fortunately, installing security contractors can help end users that are already invested in legacy systems to instantly begin creating an IP-based video network while continuing to use their existing analog equipment. They simply connect IP-based cameras, DVRs, PCs and servers directly to the network. Encoders/decoders provide network access for currently used analog cameras and monitors.
Such a platform can be used anywhere your a campus wants to view and stop incidences as they happen. It is especially beneficial in facilities such as banks and ATM kiosks, school campuses, office and industrial parks, hospitality venues, and retail chains.
IP platform encoders/decoders allow connections of any existing analog cameras, domes, keyboards and monitors to an IP network. The encoder converts video from analog cameras into an H.264 data stream of 2Mbps. Decoders convert the H.264 data stream back to composite NTSC output for viewing on traditional analog monitors. Two built-in serial ports on each unit allow users to communicate with pan/tilt/zoom (p/t/z) cameras on the network using RS-232 or RS-485 protocol from a PC or keypad connected to an encoder.
Users will be able to stream video over their IP network. The system can be set up to either encode analog video to H.264 digital video or decode digital streaming video to analog signal. Installers simply plug the campus’ existing analog devices into the IP encoder/decoder to incorporate them on a digital network.
Such an encoder/decoder is an excellent way to get started building a digital security network without replacing all of the existing analog equipment. Built-in H.264 compression technology lets the system deliver high quality video, synchronized audio, and data over any 10/100 base-T Ethernet network. Analog cameras, monitors and keyboards can all be connected to a network using an IP encoder/decoder and twisted-pair Ethernet cable.
Other peripheral devices can also be connected for increased functionality. Alarm devices, audio inputs and outputs, RS-485 devices and serial data lines can all interface with the IP encoder/decoder. Users can even employ the built-in serial port to control p/t/z cameras from a networked PC or from a connected keyboard.
In addition, such units include connections for direct hookup of an external analog monitor and an Ethernet port for plugging into the network or for remote configuration and flash upgrades.
The most important goal is to retain your campus=s’ investments in existing infrastructure, cameras and recorders as you move it to IP-based solutions.
This article originally ran in Security Sales & Integration magazine.
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