Vivotek FD7141 IP Camera

What is an Internet Camera?


Internet Camera Basics

An internet camera is a specialized surveillance camera that allows for direct video feed transmission over a network system. An internet camera is also known as a network or IP camera, because of its IP network transmission capabilities. An internet camera is able to transmit video over a network because it also includes a built in video server (or in some cases an external server into which the camera plugs in).

In a nutshell, an internet camera captures a video signal, digitizes and compresses this signal then routs it through an IP (Internet Protocol) network. This could be a local area network or connected to the broader Internet for more extreme remote access of the video feed. Video feeds can be connected to from any computer that has an internet connection, or even internet capable cell phones and PDAs.

The two major differences between an internet camera and a traditional CCTV (Closed Circuit Televison) camera are a) the internet camera sends video in a digital format and b) the internet camera sends its feeds directly over a network.

Benefits of Using an Internet Camera

There are many benefits to using an internet camera. Their digital signals make for simple and efficient storage (no more worrying about tapes!). Their network connectivity allows you to keep tabs on your monitors from wherever you may be, and even control the cameras from afar. There is little better in video surveillance and security.

Although internet cameras vary in size, they are generally fairly small. Technology miniaturization has come a long way and has allowed for incredibly small yet still powerful surveillance cameras with built in web servers for direct network connectivity (an internet camera).

Internet cameras can also come built in with a number of other features. One thing that many people are looking for is the ability to have both an analog and digital feed. Some internet cameras come with a built in analog port that can be sent to a television or VCR for traditional viewing/recording. You can also hook up special routers to the network that can send out an analog signal for your viewing/recording needs.

Even if you already have a CCTV camera set up, it is possible to convert them to an internet camera network. This can be done through the use of a video server. Analog cameras are connected to the video server, and the server converts the analog signal to digital for transfer over the network. This is another option to internet cameras.

Conclusion

All in all, internet cameras are powerful video surveillance tools that allow for great control and access of security feeds, and can be combined with a number of other tools to greater increase their effectiveness, tools which are often not available in CCTV systems.

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