9 Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Wireless IP Camera

Today, wireless IP camera surveillance has become the most flexible and foolproof option for surveillance and security installations. However, when it comes to installing such a security and surveillance system, there are likely many things that you do not fully understand. Even if you are a security professional yourself, it is very likely that you may end up making one or more of the following mistakes when installing an IP surveillance system. So, if you want to ensure successful implementation of an IP security and surveillance system, you should try avoiding these.

Mistake 1: Choosing the wrong wireless IP camera
It is important that you select IP cameras that meet the need of your installation and organization. Choices include cameras that are fixed, vandal-proof and/or waterproof and those that can pan, tilt and/or zoom. You can blend any of these cameras into an IP Surveillance system and solve your security needs by creating a total package. Moreover, you must keep in mind that every network camera is created differently. You may find yourself attracted to some low-cost IP cameras but you must also consider the durability and performance of the camera too.

Mistake 2: Selecting the wrong compression
When it comes to digital video, using some type of compression is crucial for virtually any digital video surveillance camera system. Video files tend to be so large in size that they can cause the networks to come to an abrupt stand still, unless effective compression is used. It will be vital that you select the right compression, and you will have to choose between industry standard or proprietary modes, such as MP4 or Motion JPEG. Whether or not a court of law will accept video footage in a court case, if the need ever arises, will also depend on compression.

Mistake 3: Not considering factors that determine video management
These days, a wireless IP camera connected to a network surveillance system will not just record video, but can even evaluate situations and take relevant action. Apart from the application, there are many other factors that determine video management tools and you will have to consider them. These factors that you will have to consider include bandwidth, frame-rate control, integration capabilities, scalability, and storage capabilities.

Mistake 4: Not determining the video storage requirements
One of the main benefits with wireless IP camera surveillance is that open video storage solutions can be used. In order to determine video storage requirements, you will first have to consider factors like the amount of time needed for video storage, frame rate, the redundancy required, and finally, the type of storage that will be most suitable, such as a network attached storage, or a storage area network.

Mistake 5: Incorporating analog IP cameras
No doubt, it is possible to use video servers in order to integrate analog cameras into an IP network video system. You will simply have to connect the analog camera to a video server, after which video will be digitized, compressed and transmitted over the network. Since analog cameras are technically older equipment, installation costs will be reduced. However, in many cases, limitations in video quality will prevent analog video streams from being effectively converted into digital, so it is better to install digital IP cameras in the first place.


Mistake 6: Overlooking wireless networking
When it comes to security and surveillance installations, wireless solutions are currently the most cost-effective and ideal option. For instance, historic buildings where the interior would get damaged by the installation of cables, or in facilities where cameras regularly need to be moved to new locations, wireless networking can prove to be useful. You can even use the technology to bridge sites without costly ground cabling.

Mistake 7: Not designing the network appropriately
Network designs should always be specific to the needs of the specified installation and the user. Apart from the actual IP cameras, IP addressing and transport protocols must also be considered along with bandwidth, network security, scalability and transmission methods.

Mistake 8: Not securing the video
In order to create a successful IP surveillance installation, it is important to secure video. Sensitive information is contained in almost every security and surveillance application, so anyone with an internet connection should not have access to it. It is important to understand the different security options, such as firewalls, password protection and virtual private networks (VPNs), and then choose the right one. This way it can be ensured that an IP surveillance system is not open to the public.

Mistake 9: Not hiring a professional IP surveillance system installation specialist
If you do not get a wireless IP camera surveillance system installed by a professional, you should be prepared for improper installation. Proper installation can actually ensure that a limited number of IP cameras cover a wider field of view and you will end up saving on the number of cameras you will have to purchase. In the case of improper installation, they may install the cameras in such a way that the coverage is reduced and you would be forced to incorporate further, unnecessary cameras into your surveillance system. Over the years, professional IP surveillance specialists in Singapore have installed thousands of surveillance systems and they have learned many lessons. These range from simple tips on how to properly place cameras and proper lighting conditions to determining issues, such as peak network usage times, by working with IT departments and technicians.

Bonus Mistake 10: Not taking advantage of latest technologies
Today, the amount of video being recorded is far more than what could even be monitored. Hence, intelligent video has emerged as trend in IP surveillance. Advanced wireless IP cameras come with built-in event handling and motion detection. Additionally, manufacturers are incorporating more intelligent algorithms into security and surveillance systems. These systems are far more effective and reliable, so it makes sense to take advantage of them.

Conclusion
Wireless IP camera surveillance has gained tremendous momentum. Unfortunately, many IT departments and security professionals often misunderstand the technology and end up frustrating themselves by making the above mistakes. If they manage to avoid the mistakes outlined above, IP surveillance installation will hopefully be simplified and will ensure that these systems function efficiently and smoothly.