Precautions

To avoid voltage surges, uninterruptible power supply units (UPS) are installed.

For the safety of information, it is recommended to hide the SSID (the name of your wireless network over which the connected devices are identified) and periodically change the password for accessing the network.

General Precautions:

• Operation at temperatures over 55 degrees is not recommended;
• Do not install cameras near heating devices;
• Avoid areas with strong electromagnetic radiation (high voltage power lines);
• Do not install in areas with high humidity (provided that the device is not equipped with a waterproof housing).

If the device is not visible on the computer, it is recommended: If PoE is available, check the operation of the camera by connecting to it via a cable. Check network settings (IP address).

Amcrest

Leading manufacturer of IP intercoms, video surveillance and communication systems. Specializes in the development of cameras for outdoor and indoor surveillance, walkie-talkies and audio equipment for listening to objects. Manufacturer from China, has established itself in the USA and Europe.

Amcrest IP2M-841B	Amcrest IPM-721S	Amcrest IP2M-842
View
Internal, swivel	Internal, swivel	External / internal with protected housing, swivel
Resolution
1080 (TVL 1920)	720 (1280TVL)	1080P (1920TVL)
Tilt angle
90 °	85 °	72 °
IR illumination
there is	there is	there is
Removable storage
there is	not	not

Amcrest IP2M-841B. Indoor Night Vision Camera, Full HD 1080P video, 30fps, configurable via iPhone or Android.

Amcrest IPM-721S. indoor video surveillance camera with two-way talk capability, zooming, secure data transmission using AES encryption protocol.

Amcrest IP2M-842 is an outdoor surveillance system. Equipped with a weatherproof enclosure (IP 66).

All Amcrest models have the ability to connect to the AmcrestCloud cloud service for free to watch live video.

The manufacturer of CCTV cameras iON from China has established itself from the best side. Models can withstand up to 10 m underwater without the use of body protection.

Some cameras are equipped with rapid response modules. They come with additional software from the manufacturer and have their own cloud service. Registration is required to use it.

iON 1011L Air Pro Lite	iON DashCam View Angle	iON 2002 The Home
View
Sports	Automotive	Internal
Resolution
1080p and 720p	HD 1080p / 30fps and 720p / 30fps	1080p and 720p
Tilt angle
170 °	125 °	102 °
Degree of protection
IP66	IP66	IP66
Removable storage
there is	there is	not

iON 1011L Air Pro Lite. sports, mobile camera, waterproof, comes with a bike mount.

iON DashCam View Angle is a car camera with the ability to view and send video. DashCam function detects engine start and automatically starts video recording.

iON The Home. has motion and noise sensors. Thanks to the built-in microphone, it can be used as a two-way intercom.

Functions

Wi-Fi cameras. devices that broadcast video / audio data over the Internet or a local network.

The image is transmitted in color and black and white. In case of network problems, Wi-Fi cameras continue to work offline.

Most of the models have functions:

• Ability to select the type of video stream formatting;
• Connecting to the camera through a computer, phone, tablet;
• Elimination of signal interference;
• Suppression of noise;
• Remote setting of image recording;
• Remote enable / disable cameras;
• Data stabilization via EIS (anti-blurry image);
• Vibration suppression.

Application

Wireless video surveillance systems are used indoors and on the streets, they are included ready-made in video surveillance kits (see CCTV kit for 8 cameras).

They were used at the following facilities:

• Residential houses and plots, country cottages;
• Office and warehouse premises;
• Public places (parks, parking lots, recreation areas, gas stations);
• Construction objects;
• Educational and medical institutions;
• Tunnels, bridges;
• Railway stations, airports.

Recently, wireless Wi-Fi and GSM cameras have been used as an advertising tool. Used for filming architecture, tourist sites, city attractions online.

Lens

The focal length (mm) is considered a feature of the lens. The smaller the angle of view of the camera, the greater its distance.

• fixed distance monofocal lenses;
• varifocal lenses with the ability to change focus;
• zoom lenses. lenses that allow you to manually adjust the focus range.

Lens iris control methods:

• Direct Drive;
• Video Drive.

Pros and cons of Wi-Fi CCTV cameras

Advantages of Wi-Fi cameras include the ability to simultaneously connect multiple devices to one access point and more secure video streaming.

Mobility. if necessary, the device is dismantled from one place and mounted to another without disconnecting from the network (provided that an autonomous power source is used).

• Basic knowledge is required in working with the network, setting up a router, router and setting up a DNS server, registering an IP address.
• Over a large area (over 75-80 square meters), auxiliary routers and routers are required to enhance data transmission. Also, if additional devices are available, it is necessary to configure all signal path points.

How Wi-Fi CCTV Camera Works

The principle of operation of cameras is similar to a computer system, which uses routers, local networks and setting up routing through an online network.

The camera is considered a standalone device with an IP address. It broadcasts video and audio signals, compressing information with video codecs for recording on a medium. It can be a DVR, a computer, or a cloud service on the Internet.

The camera is powered by a power supply unit or a built-in battery. Models that are capable of recording data and storing them on a separate medium are simultaneously video recorders. Other types of cameras work in the network, that is, they do not have a database of information storage.

• router (access point);
• power supply unit (standard or impulse);
• separate video recorder (depending on the configuration);
• control panel (signal receiver).

Exploitation

Before using the device, you need to test power and connect to the router. Connection is carried out in the presence of a computer and a Wi-Fi network. Next, register the network parameters. The camera drivers are installed on the computer, the device is started through the software package.

If there are two or more cameras, the connection is made to the same computer. With the installed navigation software package, several devices are viewed simultaneously. Cameras are controlled. rotate, change the angle of inclination, brightness and contrast.

Continuous recording (if this function is available) of the image will require the maximum amount of memory (HDD). Therefore, it is necessary to use MJPEG, MPEG-4, H.264 codecs.

During operation, you need to periodically check the devices for contamination and serviceability of mechanisms.

WIRELESS IP VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

A wireless IP video surveillance system is quite easy to implement on the basis of WI-FI technologies. Using a bundle of router. IP camera, you can get a wireless data transmission channel at a distance of about 100 meters. Of course, this value is very approximate, many factors affect the range of video signal transmission:

• electromagnetic environment;
• the presence and characteristics of building structures;
• the load of the communication channel, etc.

The use of wireless IP systems allows you to achieve certain savings in cabling. In addition, it is possible to quickly deploy temporary video surveillance at objects of various categories, for example, construction sites. Outdoor wireless IP cameras are ideal for this.

While we talked about autonomous systems, IP video surveillance can be easily connected to the Internet, thereby realizing remote access and viewing video information.

True, the implementation of a connection via wireless Internet has its own characteristics, the main one of which is the relatively low data transfer rate.

Thus, in this way it is possible to simultaneously view one. two CCTV cameras.

In some cases, this is enough, so the use of the same P2P video surveillance for a number of users may be quite interesting.

WIRELESS VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

Considering wireless video surveillance as an alternative to traditional wired systems is probably not entirely correct.

I’ll make a reservation right away. what has been said refers to the options for providing a wireless connection between video surveillance cameras and equipment for processing (recording, recording, displaying) a video signal.

The technologies of remote, including wireless, access to video surveillance systems via the Internet have been actively developing recently. topic for a separate conversation.

Therefore, a bundle of a wireless camera will be considered here. a control point, which can be both the operator’s workplace and, for example, a video recorder installed at home or in the country, and the conditions under which it is advisable to use wireless systems are determined.

It should be noted that the organization of video surveillance completely wirelessly is practically impossible to implement in practice, since the same camera requires a supply voltage.

The effectiveness of the use of batteries is rather doubtful. To illustrate, a small calculation can be given:

T = Ea / Ik. Where

• T. continuous working time (hours),
• Ea. battery capacity (mA / hour),
• Ik. current consumption of CCTV camera (mA).

Let’s assume that the camcorder consumes 100 mA together with the transmitter. You still need to look for this, and the capacity of the battery is 1500 mA / h, then:

T = 1500/100 = 15 hours. so let’s forget about this option.

The next moment. range of action. As a rule, it is declared no more than 100 meters in line of sight. this is under almost ideal conditions. Increasing the range of wireless video surveillance systems is possible in several ways:

• increasing the transmitter power, but this requires permission from the Communications Supervision Authority,
• use of directional antennas,
• installation of repeaters.

Do not forget about the electromagnetic environment, which determines the level of interference, in addition, interference can occur spontaneously during the operation of various electrical installations, which makes their prediction almost impossible.

Imagine a video surveillance system is installed, configured, and after a while it stops working. Not only will the search for the cause take time and money, but it is not a fact that it will be possible to eliminate it.

True, what has been said is more related to outdoor wireless video surveillance systems, but installing them indoors may be quite appropriate.

WIRELESS VIDEO SURVEILLANCE FOR HOUSE, APARTMENT

Installing wireless video surveillance at home (in an apartment) naturally removes the issue of laying long power circuits. You can always find a place for your camcorder near an electrical outlet or junction box. Thus, the only question remains is the organization of the video signal transmission.

There are two main options to consider here:

With its help, a standard television signal is received. Depending on the value of the carrier frequency, it is possible to view the image on a conventional television receiver when it is tuned to the corresponding channel (depends on the parameters of the modulator).

Obvious disadvantages: if you live in an apartment building, then:

• at the same time with you the image, willingly or unwillingly, can be viewed by residents of neighboring apartments,
• terrestrial television can interfere with your video surveillance system,
• You can interfere with neighbors, which is fraught with a lot of trouble.

In addition, simultaneous viewing of multiple cameras is not possible.

If you use a frequency outside the broadcast grid and a demodulator, then such a system can be connected to a video recorder, computer, etc.

For a private house or apartment, the option is optimal. In essence, you get a full-fledged wireless network (ip) video surveillance system, with all its advantages, advantages, however, and disadvantages too.

WIRELESS IP CAMERAS

CCTV cameras are the backbone of any video monitoring system. IP video cameras that do not require a wired connection can be divided into two main types:

• wireless IP video surveillance cameras using WI-FI technology;
• camcorders working via wireless 3G Internet.

Based on the first option, video surveillance systems are implemented in which a video camera is connected via a radio channel to a WI-FI router, which, in turn, can work with an IP video recorder, a specialized video server or a personal computer.

Since IP video surveillance makes it easy enough to remotely access equipment, such a system can be controlled via the Internet. In this case, a video recorder or a PC is used as an “intermediary”.

The use of wireless WI-FI cameras eliminates the need to lay connecting lines for video signal transmission, but nothing more.

There are still power circuits for video cameras, in addition, there are restrictions on the range of video signal transmission. In line-of-sight conditions, this value is no more than 100 meters.

Of course, you can use intermediate repeaters, directional antennas, etc., but this entails an increase in the cost of the system.

Another method of organizing IP video surveillance involves the possibility of transmitting information via the wireless Internet. For this, there are ready-made solutions of which the most interesting are:

• cloud services;
• P2P video surveillance.

Any of them allows you to remotely access cameras from any device connected to the World Wide Web and having the ability to install special software. To simplify the installation, it is better to use wireless IP video surveillance cameras specially adapted for the specified services.

The main disadvantage of this method is the limitation on the speed of data transmission over the wireless Internet. Therefore, a system of several cameras can “slow down” so much that at the output you will get a set of rather slowly changing slides, but not live video in online mode.

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Configuration via utilities

Another way to set up an IP camera is through a proprietary utility. To do this, use the disk that was included in the set of the device. The first thing they do is connect all CCTV cameras to the network through a router. Further actions depend on the brand of the device.

Utility camera setup will be covered through TRENDnet’s model. The disk of such a device is equipped with two programs.

Where to install?

Correct installation of the IP camera is a guarantee of normal operation. Since the device is powered by WI-FI, it is important that it is close to the router. If you put the device too far away, there will be problems with image transmission and will regularly experience other types of failures.

However, it is also not recommended to place the camera too close to the receiver to avoid interference with the router. Bottom line. the device should be placed at an average distance from the router.

Connection and configuration

The device is connected to a computer and a video surveillance camera is set up. The installation process goes like this:

• fix the antenna;
• the device is connected to the network;
• the provider’s network cable connects the device and the computer.

After that, the IP camera is configured:

• log in to the “Network Control Center” section;
• go to the sub-item “Local Area Connection”;
• select the “Properties” tab;
• open “Protocol version 4”;
• the IP address, which is indicated on the device case, is driven into the corresponding window;
• log in to the browser;
• the address of the surveillance camera is driven into the search bar;
• enter the file with device settings;
• enter the login and password in the windows, which are indicated on the box from the device.

If only one device needs to be connected to the Internet, the procedure will be completed. If there are several cameras, then proceed as follows:

• Change the IP address. To do this, put an icon in front of the inscription “Fixed IP” and drive in the data. To perform the manipulation, you need the address of the router. The same address is set for the camera, but the last digit is changed.

• Opposite the inscription “Port Number” enter or select the digits 8181. If there is no such setting, set the value of the WEB port 80 and save.

• The cable is disconnected from the computer and inserted into the LAN port on the router. After that, on the computer, they enter the settings for the local network connection. All parameters are cleared, after which they put a checkmark in front of the automatic obtaining of IP and DNS.
• Return the patch cord back to the network card. They go to the new device address and enter the login and password in the appropriate columns. After that, go to the “Wireless” sub-item. Enter all the data of the Wi-Fi network. Settings save and reboot the device.

• The camera is disconnected, another device is connected and the procedure is repeated. The address for the camera is set the same as for the previous device, but the last digit is changed, and the numbers 8282 are entered into the port window. The manipulation is carried out for all available devices, changing only the indicated data.

The camera can be connected to an Android and iOS smartphone. Details in

Difference from a webcam

Webcam and IP device are different devices, contrary to the opinion of some users. The webcam mechanism allows you to communicate with other people via Skype or other similar programs. The IP device is designed for video surveillance and displaying images in a digital stream.

The IP camera has its own address through which it connects to the network.

SecurView

With the help of such a program, you can add to one control panel all the images that are displayed in the “Live View” menu in the web interface, where one image is displayed from each device.

To do this, perform the following manipulations:

• install the program and launch the application;
• enter the “Settings” menu;
• in the item “Camera List” select one of the devices;
• click on the “Add Camera” button;
• enter the login and password of the device in the corresponding columns.

This manipulation is performed for all cameras. This will allow you to receive an image simultaneously from all devices.

Configuring on a router

If we talk about how to connect an IP camera to a router, then they do it as follows. Connect the router to the camera. To do this, either use the appropriate wire, or connect using Wi-Fi.

Port forwarding is done so that the router shows the desired camera when accessing the local network address from the outside. To do this, go to the “Port Forwarding” section or any other similar one. Before that, in front of the inscription “Virtual Server” put an icon.

• service name. give any name;
• port range. assign the value specified above (for the first camera it is 8181, for the second 8282, etc.);
• corresponding IP camera address;
• the local port that was specified during device configuration;
• TCP protocol and corresponding number.

The same manipulation is performed for all devices, changing the data. After that, proceed as follows. In the browser search bar, enter the following data: “http: // static_external_provider_address: 8181”.

If the IP address is dynamic white, then the procedure is performed through the DynDNS service. To do this, proceed as follows:

• enter the router settings;
• go to the “WAN” sub-item;
• select the “DDNS” tab;
• put a tick in front of the “Yes” in the “Enable DDNS” column, set the appropriate parameters and save them.

The camera is connected via a router.

For instructions on installing and configuring a video surveillance system, see the video format:

Types of devices

There are several types of IP cameras:

• swivel;
• cylindrical;
• dome;
• square;
• corps.

Dome and body devices are the most popular of the non-rotatable ones.

Depending on the place of use, the following devices are distinguished:

• street;
• for indoor use.

Various types of devices are used for video surveillance. The main thing is to correctly install and configure the camera.

Watch the video describing the models of the best PTZ IP cameras for the home:

Setting up an IP surveillance camera: connect and configure

An IP camera is a digital video camera that transmits a video image in a digital stream over a network. Such a device is not just a device connected to a receiver or transmitter, but a full-fledged participant in the network. The camera has the ability to connect via wire or WI-FI, depending on the model. The connection and setup procedure is easy to carry out independently. The main thing is to know how to do it correctly.

Setting up a video surveillance server

To configure the Macroscop server, including activating the protection key, use the Macroscop Settings application.

The Macroscop Setup application is included in all installation packages and is automatically installed when installing both server and client Macroscop applications.

To work with the Macroscop Settings application, it is recommended to use a screen with a resolution of at least 1024 × 768, as on screens with a lower resolution there may be problems with displaying the application.

During activation of the protection key, it is desirable that the server has access to the Internet, since the most convenient way to activate the key is automatic activation via the Internet. In this case, in most cases, you should follow the sequence of steps suggested by the Install a default license wizard. This method of activating the key is described below.

To activate the protection key, run the Macroscop Settings application on the Macroscop server. In the authorization window that opens, select the server, enter the username and password of a user with Macroscop settings rights and click OK.

If the key is not activated on the server, then when the Macroscop Settings application connects to the server, it will offer to install the license; if you agree, the License Installation wizard will open.

An alternative way to launch the wizard Installing a license. from the Macroscop control window Status Info: if the license is not installed on the server, in the control window instead of the button for opening the settings there will be a button Install license, when you click on it, the wizard window will open.

On the Select installation option page, select License for USB key and click Next.

The Select Key page opens with a list of USB keys connected to the server. The list, in the Dongle number column, displays the number stamped on the edge of the USB dongle. If the required key is not in the list, then it is not connected to the server’s USB port; in this case, you need to connect the key to the server and after a few seconds press Refresh. the list will be refreshed. To continue installation. click Next.

The next step is to activate the key. If you have access to the Internet, the Macroscop server will connect to the remote activation server and will automatically try to activate the key in accordance with the licenses associated with it (if you do not have access to the Internet, you can activate the USB key offline). During activation, the Online License Installation page will be displayed.

If activation is successful, the License Installation Completed page opens. To exit the licensing wizard, click the Finish button.

If activation fails, the Select installation option page opens with two options: Try to connect to the activation server again and Install the license in a different way. If you select the second option, an attempt will be made to activate the USB dongle offline. You can also interrupt the activation process by closing the wizard window.

Possible reasons for online activation errors:

• during the activation process, the connection with the activation server was interrupted. for example, due to a broken or low connection speed, or due to problems on one of the links of the network route;
• the license is not tied to this key. in this case, you should contact the supplier (seller) of the license;
• the license is for another software product.

There are several ways to launch the Macroscop Settings application:

• from the Start menu;

• from the Windows start screen;

• from a shortcut on the Desktop;

• from the Macroscop utility window Status Info;

• from the Macroscop Client application.

During the startup process, an authorization window will open, in which you should specify the server address in the Server field (or select the address from the drop-down list to the right of the input field), as well as the username and password, and then click the Connect button.

During the initial installation of the Macroscop Server application, the root user is created by default with an empty password and has a full set of rights; in the future, it is recommended to change the password of this user in the Macroscop Settings application.

The default client connection port is 8080; if necessary, it can be changed in the Macroscop Settings application.

After successful authorization, the main window of the Macroscop Settings application will open.

To connect a camera, you must first have the following information about the camera:

• camera address (IP address or URI);
• the manufacturer (brand) and model of the camera, or information on whether the camera supports ONVIF or PSIA;
• name and password for connecting to the camera (not to be confused with the login and password of the Macroscop user), most often the name and password of the camera administrator are used;
• number of streams (one or two) from the camera and codec (H.264, MJPEG, MPEG-4, H.265, MxPEG) of each stream;
• availability of additional options: sound reception, PTZ camera and others.

Below is an example of a simple connection of a camera to the Macroscop server. For more details on connecting and configuring cameras, see the complete product documentation.

To connect the camera to the Macroscop server, you need to launch the Macroscop Settings application and connect to the server.

The main window of the Macroscop Settings application will open.

Below are the steps to add and configure a camera:

In the Macroscop Settings application go to the Cameras tab.

Press the Add camera button. a new position will appear in the list of cameras: Camera 1.

Further, on the Connection tab, you need to configure the connection to the camera, as well as the parameters of the video streams received from the camera.

Specify camera address. IP address or URI.

Select the manufacturer (brand) of the camera. If the connection to the camera will be carried out according to the ONVIF or PSIA standard, then this field indicates the name of the standard.

Select a camera model. This drop-down list may contain items related not to a specific model, but to several models, series of models, or a single item for all cameras of a given manufacturer. For connection standards, as a rule, the value Compatible device is automatically substituted.

7-8. Specify username (login) and password to connect to the camera.

10-11. If the camera broadcasts two streams, then you should enable the Alternate stream option and select the codec for the alternate (second) video stream.

Press the Test camera button. if everything is configured correctly, the live video from the camera will be displayed.

If the image does not appear, then you need to check that the camera is accessible from this computer through the web interface of the camera itself. Then you should make sure that the address, username and password, as well as the codec are correct. If the camera is available, the connection parameters are correct, and the video from the camera is not broadcast in the test window, then you can try to select other device models of the same manufacturer from the list.

13-14. Below, in the Advanced settings group, you can configure additional camera capabilities (only if support for these capabilities for this camera model is implemented in Macroscop): audio reception and transmission, support for alarm inputs and outputs. PTZ control interface. It is also recommended to enable the Connect via server option in this section.

To use motion detection, switch to the Motion detection tab.

Then you need to enable the Motion detection option.

The Detector type switch determines which motion detector will be used:

• Macroscop. software motion detector on the Macroscop server.
• On-camera. motion detector built into the camera.

When using a motion detector built into the camera, video analytics on the Macroscop server for this camera becomes unavailable.

When using software motion detector and receiving two video streams from the camera, you should select Video stream for analysis. This parameter determines which stream will be used for software motion detection on the Macroscop server.

Recommendations for choosing a stream for analysis, provided that the main stream is of higher resolution than the alternative one; for example, the main one is 1920×1080, the alternative one is 640×480:

Alternative. if no mining modules other than software motion detection are used.

Primary. if, in addition to the software motion detector, at least one additional video analytics module is used, including external modules.

To configure the parameters for recording video and sound from a connected camera to the archive, go to the Archive tab.

Recording to the archive will be performed only when the Recording and viewing archive option is enabled.

You can leave the default settings for recording to the archive: in this case, the video archive will be permanently recorded. At the same time, if a motion detector is used, it is recommended to select the By motion mode: in this case, recording to the archive will be carried out only when motion is detected in the frame, as well as at the command of the operator.

To record audio from the camera, you must enable the Record audio option.

To connect other cameras, repeat steps 1-22.

After making any changes to the settings, it is imperative to apply these changes. only after that the new settings will take effect.

Settings tab titles that have unapplied changes are marked with an asterisk.

To apply the settings, click the Apply All button.

The Apply Settings window opens, in which, on the Check Configuration tab, elen shows the results of checking the settings before applying, and on the Changes tab, the current settings changes.

To finally apply the settings, click the Apply button, to return to changing the settings without applying them, click the Cancel button.

After applying the settings, you can close the Macroscop Settings application and start normal work in the video surveillance system.

Video parameters settings WI-FI CCTV camera

There is a separate menu item for detailed adjustment of the image quality of the IP camera: Image parameters, which is called from the System menu. To access it, the easiest way is to use the CMS program, although there is an identical item in the camera’s WEB interface.

Let’s write down the purpose of each parameter in order.

Exposure mode
Sets the mode of operation of the electronic shutter of the camera. In the “Automatic” mode. the camera itself sets the shutter speed depending on the illumination of the object, adjusting the luminous flux to the matrix. Thus, the overall brightness of the picture will be optimal. You should not change the default value of this parameter, unless you have an auto iris lens installed (In most IP cameras, there is no aperture, its role is played by an electronic shutter).
If necessary, you can manually set a constant exposure. 1/50, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, 1/100000
In this case, it should be borne in mind that when the illumination of the object changes, the image may become too dark or too overexposed, since the camera no longer controls this parameter.

Minimum time (min time) / Maximum time (max time)
Exposure limits can be set (in milliseconds).

Day / Night mode
Day-night mode control. Automatically. the camera switches from color to black and white and back when the light threshold is reached. If necessary, you can manually set permanently color (with sufficient night illumination or when using a particularly sensitive matrix such as IMX185) or permanent black-and-white mode.

BLC
Back Light Compensation This technology is designed to equalize the brightness of dark areas of an image, sacrificing detail in bright areas by increasing the overall brightness of the picture. Example: a significant part of the image is occupied by the sky, in order to see a person’s face against this background, this function increases the overall brightness, thereby the face becomes distinguishable, and the sky area becomes overexposed and loses detail.

Auto Iris
If you have an auto iris lens, this option should be enabled. Most IP cameras do not have aperture, so this option has no effect on the image.

Profile
Determining the environment in which the camera operates. The options are Automatic, Outdoor and Indoor. Affects the color tone of the picture.

IR cut filter (IR_CUT)
IR filter operating mode. Synchronous with IR illumination (IR Synchronous Switch). the filter is triggered when the camera’s IR illumination is turned on. Recommended to use as default.
Automatically (Automatically Switch). The IR cut filter switches when the camera switches from day to night mode and back. It is recommended to use it only if the camera has no IR illumination, as it has a drawback. with a very smooth change in illumination, the so-called “soft evening”, for some time there is a cyclic day-night switching until the illumination decreases significantly (this is due to the peculiarity of the camera in night mode: when the IR filter is opened, the total luminous flux increases due to the infrared component. and it already becomes enough for the day mode, and after turning on the day mode, the flow decreases again).

AE Reference
Sets the reference value of the picture brightness level, to which the electronic shutter speed value is adjusted. Smaller values ​​will give a dark picture, larger ones. light. Recommended value 50.

AE Sensitivity
Sets the interval in seconds through which the camera adjusts the shutter speed.

Dnc Threshold
Setting the threshold at which the camera switches from day to night mode and back. Relevant when the IR_CUT parameter is set to Automatically Switch. The camera changes day-night mode simultaneously with switching the IR filter.

DWDR
Digital Wide Dynamic Range is a dynamic range expansion technology. Used to improve visibility in dark areas by increasing the gain in those areas. This allows you to make dark areas more contrast and distinguish objects even in them. Relevant for night mode. Increasing the gain also amplifies the noise, therefore it is recommended to enable the squelch in conjunction with this option, since the noise increases the overall bitrate and, accordingly, reduces the depth of the archive.

Defogging
The function appeared relatively recently, in the firmware of March 2015 it was not yet available. Artificially increases the contrast in homogeneous areas of the image, thereby slightly compensating for the loss of clarity in foggy weather and when the camera glass fogs up.

AGC (AGC)
Auto Gain Control of the video signal. Additional digital brightness correction allows you to raise the brightness in a dark picture. Relevant for night mode. It is recommended to use either AGC or DWDR, but not both options together, as their combination will degrade the result.

Slow shutter
In very low light conditions, an image can still be obtained by increasing the shutter opening time for one or even several frames. The downside of this solution is the blurring of moving objects. The value is None. does not allow this technology, High. allows you to use the maximum shutter speed. Recommended value Low.

DayNTLevel (day) / NightNTLevel (night)
Squelch settings in day and night modes. 0. squelch disabled, 5. maximum squelch. Recommended value for the day. 2-3, for the night. 4-5.

Mirror
Mirroring the picture about the vertical axis.

Flip
Flip the picture about the horizontal axis.

Anti flicker
Eliminate flicker from fluorescent lamps, etc.

IRSwap (Reverse IR)
Switching the operating mode of the IR cut filter to the opposite. This option should only be used if the IR filter is incorrectly connected (reverse polarity), that is, in cases where the filter is open during the day (the image is pink), and is closed at night (the image is very dark even with IR illumination).

ManyCam

ManyCam application significantly expands the functionality of the webcam, providing additional capabilities for Skype, ICQ, MSN, Yahoo and many other platforms. Various effects and filters are applied to the image, which are visible not only to the user himself, but also to his interlocutors. The main feature of the solution under consideration is the multi-channel connection mode, which allows you to broadcast a picture from several sources at once.

An extensive library of effects is available that can be applied to a webcam image: filters, distortions, backgrounds, frames, objects, overlays, face and emotion effects, and text, picture and date overlays over time. The function of loading additional content into the built-in database has been implemented. The free version of ManyCam has a limited list of features, but it is not limited in time. There is a fairly high-quality Russification.

CyberLink YouCam

CyberLink YouCam is a multifunctional solution that allows you to superimpose many different effects, filters, stamps, etc. on your webcam image. Processing occurs in real time while the user uses the device in other applications. It is worth noting the function of improving the image quality by adjusting some parameters. Available as a simple mode, in which brightness, noise level, exposure and other parameters are adjusted, as well as an advanced mode, where more advanced settings are available.

Another feature that many users love CyberLink YouCam for is the Face Beauty feature. When activated, the system applies image processing algorithms, after which facial features become more attractive and natural. A huge number of tools can be used to personalize an image: scenes, frames, particles, filters, distortion, emotions, gadgets, avatars, markers and stamps. In this case, both embedded content and downloadable content can be used. The developers have optimized the solution for working with Skype. just select CyberLink YouCam as a camera in the application settings.

WebcamMax

WebcamMax is another great tool for setting up your webcam and recording video from it. The application has a fairly similar functionality to the solutions discussed earlier (CyberLink YouCam, ManyCam), but here everything is implemented a little differently. It is possible to superimpose one image on top of another. A huge library of standard effects superimposed on the picture deserves special attention. But most of them become available only after purchasing a license, and in the free version, objects are protected by a watermark.

Among the additional features, it is worth highlighting the presence of templates, on the basis of which you can create individual sets and instantly apply them if necessary, without wasting a lot of time choosing the desired effects and parameters. There is no video storyboard or format selection function, which will require you to use an additional video editor to post-process your footage. We are glad to have a Russian-language version, which makes the workflow easier for novice users.

Live WebCam

Live WebCam is a handy application that can be used as an auxiliary tool when organizing video surveillance. The interface is divided into two blocks: a device window, where the image itself is fed, and a panel with available functions, including creating a screenshot, activating auto-capture, and uploading captured materials to an FTP server. The parameters also contain two categories: “Program settings” and “Detector settings”. The latter allows you to make the webcam independently activate and record what is happening.

The main problem with Live WebCam is that it is not intended for video recording and only takes snapshots. However, the application contains an impressive number of parameters that allow you to correctly configure the device to suit your needs, and with the Russian-language interface, this will be even easier. Among the main advantages, in addition to the free distribution model, there is an excellent autonomy of the application with minimal user participation: the webcam itself activates at the right time, takes a picture and sends it directly to the specified server.

Webcam configuration software

As a rule, to configure the webcam, it is enough to connect it to the computer and install the drivers. However, built-in solutions do not allow to control all the capabilities of such devices, and sometimes they do not at all allow achieving the desired goal. In these cases, it is worth using special applications designed for advanced work with devices for shooting.

Active WebCam

Despite the outdated interface, Active WebCam can also be a good solution for setting up a webcam and organizing video surveillance. The main features practically do not differ from Live WebCam, while both a web and a regular video camera can be connected to the application. This can be done in several ways: locally (the camera is connected to the computer), over the network (using an IP camera in the local network) and remotely (the source computer communicates with another PC, to which the device is connected). The captured signal is saved in AVI or MPEG format, after which it can be sent to the specified FTP server.

The developers claim that Active Webcam is great for both home and professional use as a real surveillance system. The program supports a multi-channel mode, in which a signal from several devices is displayed at once, the image of each of them can be saved either separately or in one common video file. For one-time needs, a demo version is suitable, but if you are going to use the application on an ongoing basis, you will need to purchase a license.

WebCam Monitor

WebCam Monitor is designed to transform a webcam into a full-fledged video surveillance device and works roughly the same principle as Live WebCam. The device is activated automatically when movement or noise appears in its field of view. it depends on the set parameters. It is possible to track both the entire area and certain parts of it. The webcam itself is configured instantly when it is connected. The developer claims to support over 100 models without the need to install drivers.

Additional actions are also configured that will be performed when the device is activated, in addition to recording video. These include taking a screenshot, sending a notification to the user’s email, launching another application on the computer, playing any sound, and downloading media files. Captured videos can be saved to your hard drive or automatically sent to an FTP server. Among the shortcomings, it is worth highlighting the lack of a Russian-language interface, a limited demo version and a limit on the number of connected webcams, which does not disappear even in the paid version.

Skype

Oddly enough, Skype can also be used as an application for setting up a webcam, although it was not originally intended for this. However, one of its main functions is the organization of video communication, so it is quite expected to find here a section with the parameters of the connected devices. It is divided into two categories: “GPU Gain” and “Camera Control”. In the first, brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, clarity, gamma, white balance, shooting against light, gain, color and frequency of the power line are adjusted. In the second, the user sets the zoom, focus, shutter speed, aperture, shift, tilt, pan, and low light compensation.

Thus, if you only use your webcam to communicate with your friends via Skype, it is not at all necessary to install additional programs to configure the device, except for cases when you need to apply various effects, graphic elements and filters to the image. Skype is a free application in Russian and is actively used all over the world.

We’ve looked at a few robust apps that make it easy to set up your webcam for quality performance. Many of them are designed to organize a complete surveillance system and are endowed with many additional options. There are also those that work directly with the image, allowing you to apply various effects to it and increase the quality of the recording.

General setup procedure

How to choose the right place for the camera, see

For the initial setup of the device to work over a Wi-Fi network, you need to access the Web interface of the camera through a cable connection between the device and a computer with Internet access.

• Using the default browser, open the Web page of the device that appears in the Network Neighborhood;
• After entering the login and password (specified by the manufacturer in the documentation), the image transmitted by the camera will appear in the browser window;
• Setting, as a rule, consists in entering into the appropriate fields of the interactive form the key parameters of the network IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, DNS server, password on Wi-Fi.

Principle of operation

How the device works, see the picture:

Outdoor CCTV camera with Wi-Fi is equipped with the following items:

• Protective cover;
• Power supply unit (charging battery or replaceable batteries);
• Lens (can be monofocal, vari- or zoom);
• Infrared filters or floodlights for nighttime surveillance;
• USB connector;
• Additionally, a speaker, microphone, memory card slot can be installed.

The considered device is an independent element of a wireless network with an IP address. Connection to a computer or mobile device is carried out via Wi-Fi through a router or router. The device broadcasts video / audio information from the observation point via the Internet or a local wireless network. Image transmission can be carried out in black and white or color format.

Inversely, the information transfer rate depends on the distance and the load on the Wi-Fi network. Several outdoor surveillance devices can be connected to one access point at the same time. Thanks to its mobile qualities, the camera with an autonomous power source without disconnecting from the wireless network can be easily installed in another place.

Design features of outdoor surveillance devices

The wireless outdoor camera does not require the installation of a signal transmission cable. You just need to take care of the power supply of the device, you will also need a router.

Structurally, outdoor cameras with a Wi-Fi module may differ in basic characteristics and the presence / absence of additional parameters:

The general construction of the chamber is shown in the picture:

• fastening method;
• matrix resolution;
• viewing angle;
• focus adjustment;
• changing the field of view due to the possibility of rotation;
• motion and sound sensors;
• night vision function;
• backlight;
• level of protection against external influences;
• memory card.

Such a device provides the ability to shoot, broadcast images via a wireless communication protocol (802.11 protocol) and remote monitoring on a computer, tablet or smartphone connected to the camera.

How to choose a camera. see tips in video format:

Outdoor CCTV cameras with Wi-Fi: features and overview

To ensure security, video surveillance systems are widely used these days. An important element of such a system is a video camera. The modern market presents a large assortment of devices that capture everything that happens in the field of view of the lens.

An essential niche is occupied by the segment of outdoor video cameras. We suggest you familiarize yourself with the functional features, varieties of the assortment of this group below.

Application in practice

Wireless surveillance cameras with a Wi-Fi adapter are widely used for tracking objects such as:

Before the direct execution of installation work, the installation site is selected taking into account the following points:

• Illumination level of the object of observation;
• The degree of view when changing conditions that worsen the completeness of the observed object. For example, so that parked cars do not block the view of the entrance to the entrance;
• Protection from vandals, as well as other external influences;
• Location accessible for maintenance (replacement of power supplies, cleaning, dismantling for repair).

An equally important step is to install software on a computer for a specific Wi-Fi surveillance camera model.

It is important to note that in practice, during installation, basic knowledge of configuring wired and wireless connections of devices on the network is required.

Model overview

You can see an overview of popular models here:

Let’s briefly describe some models from different price segments:

• AVC MVS-RW810 (WI-FI) is a budget sector device (no more than 4000 rubles). The device is suitable for organizing video surveillance in the country. Sensor specifications: 1MP CMOS, 1.4-inch matrix, resolution 1280 × 720 pixels, Focus fixed 3.6, viewing angle 56.14 °. The camera is equipped with a motion sensor, IR illumination with a range of 30 meters, a microSD memory slot. Powered by a 12V source. Video can be recorded to a card (up to 64GB supported) or transferred to a DVR over the network. The camera is presented in a housing protected from moisture. Protection level IP66.

• Millenium Street PTZ Wi-Fi. PTZ IP camera with 5x zoom. The degree of protection of the case is IP66. Performs a 180 degree turn in 15 seconds. Records videos in FullHD quality. Perfectly performs its functions both in bright sunlight and in the dark, thanks to IR illumination. Night video surveillance is possible at a distance of up to 50 m.This camera costs about 10 thousand rubles.

Hope the article was helpful. If you have any questions, be sure to write in the comments. We will also be glad if you share your personal experience on the use of street cameras. Thank you all and see you!