Global Security Solutions : IP Video Surveillance

Troubleshooting IP Network Camera

Troubleshooting IP or network based live cameras is much simpler than it may appear. Most issues are related to power loss or a change in the network that supports the camera. All brands of cameras Axis, Sony, Panasonic and others are equally susceptible to outages and most likely will require some troubleshooting during the life of the
camera.

The following outline was written by Steve Surfaro of Axis Communications

When troubleshooting physical infrastructure, integrators must examine:
Cabling and wireless networks,
Equipment that controls the network devices and system power, and
Wiring plant that supports the multiple network-based security systems.

The wiring plant includes the telecommunications closet, the intermediate cross-connect, the main cross-connect and the data center, as well as the command monitoring center and the main cable head where the physical infrastructure connects to TELCO services, external WANs or the Internet.

To determine the source problem, ask these questions:

Is there power?
This is the most obvious place to start troubleshooting. Ferret out whether a break in the network cable is present or if the problem lies with the power sourcing equipment (PSE) or the powered device (PD) itself. It’s advantageous to have a network management system that can consistently monitor the endpoints of the network and pinpoint where performance has slowed down or stopped altogether, especially for larger networks.

Is the PSE’s capacity exceeded?
If an Ethernet cable connects devices to a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) switch, confirm that the device being powered can accept and use power from that Ethernet cable for its operation. As a safety precaution, a PoE switch or other PoE-compliant PSE won’t supply power over an Ethernet cable if it’s not connected to a PoE-compliant device.

Second, check the wattage rating of the network switch and the power requirements of all the PoE devices being powered by that switch. The PoE standard — also known as the IEEE 802.3af standard — designates a maximum power output of 15.4 watts per port, or 12.95 watts to the powered device after factoring in the normal power loss that occurs on a twisted pair cable. Attaching too many devices with large power requirements to a switch can exceed its power capacity. To determine the classification of a particular powered device, check the manufacturer’s specification sheet.

If the network switch supports the newly ratified Hi PoE standard — also known as IEEE 802.3at or PoE+ — it can deliver 25 watts of power per port, or 22.55 watts to the powered device once power dissipation in the cable is considered. If the Hi PoE network switch uses all four of the twisted pairs in the Cat 5 cable, it can deliver up to 51 watts of power per channel. This is more than sufficient to power and control pan/tilt/zoom network cameras, as well as (small) heaters and fans in outdoor network cameras, over a single Ethernet cable.

Is the wireless network experiencing interference?
Much like hardwired network systems, integrators should set up a network management system to monitor wireless transceivers or radios for power loss, fluctuating network throughput and poor signal strength. Radios can also be monitored for interference from external sources.

Rooting Out Logical Infrastructure Problems

When troubleshooting logical infrastructure, integrators must examine:
Network switches,
Firewalls, and
Network management systems.

This is the virtual portion of your network that controls how you segment access to network security devices and systems. It also involves the way you guarantee quality of service (QoS) for critical systems during spikes in bandwidth demand from various security systems on the network.

To determine where the problem might be originating in the logical infrastructure, here are a few pertinent questions to investigate:

Does the user have permission to access the system?
If a user complains that they’re not receiving information from a particular network-based device, check the Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) to see if they have been granted permission to access that device. The VLAN is designed to separate groups of users to prevent unauthorized access to network components such as devices or databases.

For instance, human resources might have permission to look at an access control database but is barred from the access control panels themselves. A school superintendent may be able to see all of the video cameras in the district, but principals can see only the cameras covering their own campuses. Or in an emergency, first responders may be given temporary access to a building’s security cameras.

Is a new logical security application causing communication failures?
If network-based devices suddenly stop communication, check to see if the network administrator has introduced a new logical security application that may have triggered the failure. This could be a new proxy server that doesn’t recognize the device, a new firewall that creates a barrier between the device and the network in accordance with the company’s information security management (ISM) policy, or a piece of security software that is blocking the network port used by the device.

The best way to test for these problems is to shut down the new application and see if the device begins communicating again. Start with the simplest communications path possible and then add layers of logical infrastructure and tracking when things start to fail.

Troubleshooting Specific, Network-Based Security Systems

After investigating the infrastructures, integrators should move on to the specific network systems for further inspection. The diagnostic strategies for two of the more popular network-based security systems — video surveillance and access control — are very similar.

Is the powered device working?
Whether it’s a network camera or a card reader, the first thing to check is the device itself. Is it receiving power? Are all its parts functioning? If the problem doesn’t seem to be power or part failure, try resetting the device. Start with a soft reset: simply powering down the device and then powering it back up again. If that doesn’t work, a hard reset will restore the device’s settings to its factory default. Then you can change the settings one at a time to see if a particular new setting is causing the problem.

Is the problem in the firmware?
One of the most common oversights in upgrading network-based systems is firmware compatibility between the network camera and the video management system or between the card reader, the door control panel and the access control management system. A manufacturer might have shipped you a firmware revision for the network device that isn’t supported by the management system. Or the network administrator might have upgraded the management system without considering its compatibility with the network device. Any of these scenarios could lead to a communications issue.

Are the databases synched?
If multiple network-based security systems are designed to work in tandem, it’s important to synchronize their databases to ensure that they operate properly. For example, a visitor management system might allow visitors to enroll online to ensure a badge is waiting for them when they arrive at the facility. However, if that information doesn’t automatically populate the access control system database, then the visitor’s badge won’t be recognized by the card reader.

Is remote access being hampered?
For network video surveillance systems in particular, problems can emerge with WAN connectivity when monitoring video streams remotely. To correct, first ensure that the individual monitoring the cameras is accessing the correct static IP addresses. If the network doesn’t use static IP addresses for the network cameras, check that correct port forwarding or network address translation protocols are in place. This might require specialized programming to determine if the camera’s video stream is transmitting properly through the router.

Hosted video solutions US Relay avoid much of this complex protocol connectivity by connecting the cameras to an outside dispatch service. The service automatically reconfigures the cameras to stream video to a hosted video portal, where it can be accessed by remote users.

Keeping It Simple

Even in a complex network environment, the simplest approach is the most effective one. Start troubleshooting by ruling out more obvious problems such as power loss before exploring other possible issues affecting system performance. Try to recreate a simple communications path between the network device and the user of that device’s information — be it a video stream or an entrance permission. Then gradually introduce other areas of the network to determine where and when the problem occurs. This systematic layering of complexity will make it easier and faster for you to root out the problem and bring the security systems back to full operation.

Troubleshooting Checklist:

Check physical infrastructure
Power to all devices?
Manual soft or hard reset?
PoE capacity exceeded?
Wireless interference?

Check logical infrastructure
User permission for VLAN?
New logical security application?
(Proxy server, firewall, security software, etc.)
Firmware compatibility?

LED flashlight Night Vision Camera

Ghost hunters, rejoice. Not only does this $150 LED flashlight record 640×480 video at 30 frames per second, it’s also got an eight foot nightvision range that allows it to record in complete darkness.

There’s a five-hour rechargeable lithium ion battery, support for microSD cards up to 8GB (20 hours of video) and, oh yeah, it’s a flashlight too. You know, for seeing in the dark.

According to the product description:

With this hidden camcorder that looks and acts like a regular LED flashlight, you can use it as just that, and record at the same time. With the built-in nightvision, you can record crystal clear footage and take pictures without anyone knowing exactly what you’re doing. This is great tool for bouncers or security guards working in dark bars or clubs for when they check IDs. Also great for regular surveillance hoping to protect themselves, throw the Flashlight Camcorder in your car or pocket and be prepared for any break down or nighttime excursion.

This actually seems like it’d be very useful for certain applications, and not ridiculously expensive at $150. Aside from ghost hunting and ID checking, this product will unfortunately be a big topic of discussion at peeping clubs everywhere. Do they have peeping clubs?

Contact Us at 918.877.0036 to find out more.

Three Men Wanted For Cellphone Store Crime Spree

Axis network cameras chosen to improve security for Prague’s buses

3 Feb 2010
Lund, Sweden, Headquarters
Axis network cameras chosen to improve security for Prague’s buses

Axis Communications’ network cameras will be installed in buses for municipal transport in Prague. The 3,500 AXIS 209FD-R Network Cameras will be part of a system for monitoring each vehicle’s interior, improving passenger security and providing evidence to help solve incidents of vandalism and other crimes. The installation started in November 2009 and the whole installation will be finished in 2014.
 
Axis network cameras will be installed of 620 buses for municipal transport in Prague. The new buses will have a modern design and meet strict environmental criteria.

”Several transportation authorities have chosen network video products to improve safety and security in their transit systems, or to view and share real-time information on traffic and road conditions, says Ray Mauritsson, President of Axis Communications. “Axis’ network video products have been installed in many demanding environments, including buses in Stockholm, trains in Zurich and subway cars in Moscow.”

The AXIS 209FD-R Network Camera is a palm-sized, discreet, rugged network camera specifically for the tough environments found in mass transit vehicles. Its durable transparent cover provides excellent protection against dust, humidity and vibrations. The small built-in heater eliminates condensation on the lens or cover. The cameras are designed for easy installation and can withstand the tough and changing conditions in buses.

About Axis Communications
Axis is an IT company offering network video solutions for professional installations. The company is the global market leader in network video, driving the ongoing shift from analog to digital video surveillance. Axis products and solutions focus on security surveillance and remote monitoring, and are based on innovative, open technology platforms.

Axis is a Swedish-based company, operating worldwide with offices in more than 20 countries and cooperating with partners in more than 70 countries. Founded in 1984, Axis is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Stockholm, under the ticker AXIS.

ACTi IP Cameras for Parking Building Surveillance

Acti Security Cameras in Sweden Schools

Simon Property Malls

Global Security Solutions is working with Simons Property Malls to enhance its security with deploying the latest in IP CCTV cameras. The well-balanced tenant mix at Woodland Hills attracts affluent shoppers and covers a variety of sectors including an attractive array of restaurants catering for all tastes, such as Midway Grille restaurant.  An emphasis was placed on shopper's accessibility to the mall by public and private transport. 

Axis Network Security Cameras in Portugal

4 Dec 2009 Axis network cameras increase safety in Portuguese schools Axis Communications today announced that its network video cameras will play a key role in a comprehensive safe school project in Portugal. More than 12,000 network cameras will be installed in order to increase security in public schools in a cost-effective way. The installation started in August 2009 and is expected to continue during 2010.

The selected network camera models are the AXIS 225FD for the indoor installations and the AXIS 221 for outdoor installations. Axis network cameras are going to be installed in 1,200 schools, in 2nd and 3rd class of primary education and in secondary schools. The cameras will be installed in corridors and school entrances. “We are proud to deliver our network cameras to the schools in Portugal. We have seen an increasing interest in installations of network video products at schools and universities due to a heightened interest in student security.” said Ray Mauritsson, President, Axis Communications. “As the schools often have the infrastructure in place, a cost-efficient installation of network cameras with superior image quality can easily be deployed.” Axis’ network cameras have been selected for this project because of their exceptional image quality, ease of installation and maintenance as well as their ability to connect directly to existing IP networks in schools.

Furthermore, the functionality PoE (Power over Ethernet) will also reduce installation costs as the cameras will be fed with power through the Ethernet cable, unifying power and data on one cable.

IP CCTV System at Brampton

Situated in East Ham, Brampton Manor has 1,600 students and has recently been awarded specialist status as an art college. Security Systems Technology (SST) have designed and implemented a major IP CCTV system for Brampton Manor School in east London. The school now has a 114-camera configuration that is integrated with pre-existing IT infrastructure and allows multi-user viewing by authorised personnel right across the campus.

SST have installed a mix of cameras, predominantly Power over Ethernet IP-addressable models, and are now clarifying positions for further vandal-resistant dome units in an additional wing and wireless PTZ domes for the newly-landscaped grounds. A new sports hall has been built and the former building transformed into drama facilities, a development that reflects Brampton Manor’s position as a specialist performing arts school.

The ability of SST’s consultants to integrate technologies has seen the introduction of IP internal dome cameras from Axis combined with use of Axis encoder blades which are allowing legacy analogue models to produce IP feeds and so co-exist on the network. This has meant that original units which were still fit for purpose have been retained, so making optimum use of budget.

IT and facilities management staff have been impressed by the ease with which the cameras can be connected to the school’s computer network and the empowering effect of multi-user access. There is full wireless telemetry via an Axis joystick in the security office and also the ability to use virtual joysticks through Xprotect Enterprise server software provided by Milestone Systems. Video is transmitted through the school’s fibre network although over 10,000 metres of new Cat5 cable was run, and SST have proved adept at avoiding data bottlenecks.

Chetan Vasudev of SST said: “The large number of cameras necessitated complex bandwidth calculations. By running our feeds in parallel with the existing main network via fibre, we not only produced a ‘green’ solution but also minimised disruption to the school’s operation.”

In the case of camera installations at new, external positions, SST have used wireless technology from Netgear. Due to the distance involved and the high costs of running cables underground, the decision was taken to use wireless transmission to send both live video and telemetry back to the main school premises. All of the cameras are controlled by Milestone software and SST have become Milestone-certified installers.

Resource :  www.securitypark.co.uk

New $1.6million CCTV network

Adrian Taylor | 28th November 2009

CRIME will fall and we’ll all feel safer when Rockhampton’s new $1.6 million CCTV network is switched on in March, says Deputy Mayor Rose Swadling. Tom Upton and Rose Swadling at Victoria park where new security cameras are going to be installed.

CRIME will fall and we’ll all feel safer when Rockhampton’s new $1.6 million CCTV network is switched on in March, says Deputy Mayor Rose Swadling. Work will start soon on installing an additional 35 cameras at key locations in the CBD and at potential crime hot spots to dramatically boost the cover provided by an existing nine cameras. The project, jointly funded by the State Government and regional council, has been two years in the planning and Cr Swadling says she’s counting the days to when the system finally goes live.

“We have worked very closely with police to ensure the cameras will cover the right locations,” she said. “It’s a sophisticated system that will allow 24-hour monitoring of the city centre and places like Victoria Park where there has been a problem with vandalism.“Police will be able to see everything that goes on and if people are doing the wrong thing, they will get caught.” She said cameras not only enabled police to keep a close eye on a vast area but would also provide excellent evidence to help criminal prosecutions in the courts.“The police will be able to respond very quickly to a situation that is picked up by the cameras. This will be great for protecting people and the city’s assets,” she said. Once the system is operating, the council will stop using private security patrols in the CBD although Cr Swadling would personally like to use the two systems in tandem.“That will eventually be up for councillors to decide but I personally believe the safety of people is the greatest priority we have.”
The new system involves an extensive fibre optic network in the CBD linked to parks on both banks of the Fitzroy.The system will be controlled and monitored from inside the Kodak rotunda in Quay Street and there will be a second monitoring station at the police station in Bolsover Street.

Cameras will be located at various points in Quay and William Streets, various points in East Street, and in Denham as well as at high points giving extensive coverage of riverside parks.The cameras are pan, tilt and zoom units that will allow monitors to get close-up images of people involved in criminal activity.