Technology is always evolving. Because of this, it is very important to stay up to date on recent tech trends and developments, especially if you are in the video surveillance/security field. Video surveillance was introduced in the 1970’s with the invention of the VCR, but the field has really taken off recently with the introduction of DVR. Since then, video has seen several high-tech innovations, including IP-based systems, high definition images and sophisticated software.
So what’s next for video surveillance? Only time will tell, but here is a list of 7 developments and products, provided by this article from CampusSafetyMagazine.com, that will impact the security field in the upcoming year.
1. Megapixel Cameras: Megapixel cameras are nothing new, but they are constantly getting better. High definition (HD) video (minimum resolution of 720 to 1,080 pixels) now allows for better identification of subjects, requires fewer cameras to cover a given area and provides for specialized applications, such as license plate recognition. CMOS imager technology has also seen an improvement to image quality.
2. HDcctv: This option is built on technology pioneered for broadcast television. It transmits via TCP/IP uncompressed video that has not been encapsulated. It also promises many of the benefits touted by megapixel IP cameras while permitting the use of conventional analog equipment, which is prevalent on so many of today’s campuses.
Currently, HDcctv signals can only be transmitted 100 meters, which is a significant disadvantage. Using copper cables or fiber optics might address this issue. Also, right now there is limited product selection on the market, although this is certain to change.
3. Video Management Systems or Software (VMS): Since video is usually integrated with other security systems, it is important to include a unified user interface. This has led to the development of VMS, which also offers operational efficiencies beyond tradition security. Video can also help with process control, personnel management, inventory tracking, quality control and customer service.
4. “Edge” Devices: Intelligent surveillance cameras, in particular, now have built-in features like recording, storage and analytics. This means that less video (data) needs to be streamed to a central location for viewing, which reduces the chance of bandwidth constraints and an overburdened network. Also, in cases where the network has gone down, these edge devices can record locally.
5. Data Storage: Over the years, the capacity of hard drives has expanded greatly while their prices have fallen dramatically. One key development has been the introduction of solutions specifically designed for video surveillance.
6. Analytics: As the number of cameras and surveillance systems continues to grow, users need to find ways to organize and analyze all of the data from these sources. Analytics solutions can match faces, determine when a line has been crossed or classify an object. This functionality allows users to quickly assess a scene and determine if there is a threat.
7. Video Alarm Verification: Cameras can also be used to verify intrusion alarms, which helps to minimize false dispatches. This solution combines a compact camera with a PIR motion sensor so when activity is detected, surveillance footage is captured. The clip is then sent to security personnel, allowing them to determine the validity of the alarm.
For any questions on video surveillance technology, simply contact ARK Systems at 1-800-995-0189 or click here today.