Frequently Asked Questions
What is a HD IP CCTV Camera?
HD IP CCTV sets the new standard in surveillance. Never before has CCTV been so intelligent, sophisticated, integrated and crisp.
Will IP CCTV integrate with my existing CCTV system?
IP CCTV isn’t compatible with analogue CCTV as the technology is completely different; however:
Which manufacturers do you use?
What is the difference between a Samsung Techwin CCTV camera and another brand?
Samsung Techwin manufactures video surveillance products utilising innovative technologies; many of which are unique to Samsung. Samsung Techwin’s products are based on “3 Pillars” of development, namely Image Quality, Bandwidth Utilisation and Ease of Use. The Samsung range also includes hybrid options; such as encoders to allow existing analogue cameras to be incorporated. By delivering Smart Security products, Samsung provides a complete range of end to end IP network solutions; including Network Video Recorders (NVR), licence free viewing and recording software and a comprehensive range of High Definition megapixel cameras. Smart IP CCTV Cameras, offering your cameras to be monitored by an Alarm Recording Centre. Samsung NVR’s incorporate a “Hot Swap” facility to allow replacement without interrupting recording. Power supply reliability is enhanced by way of Dual Power supply.
What is a BS8418 CCTV system?
BS8418 has proved such a success that TI Security is incorporating many of its design requirements to ensure a better service and use of resources. When businesses are looking to have a monitored CCTV security system installed, they want to know that every aspect of its performance is going to meet their needs. BS8418 was developed for that very purpose, especially because compliant systems can be eligible for a ‘first response’ service from the Police. Rather than specifically being created with the end-user in mind, BS8418 started life as a set of best-practice recommendations in order to stop the high incidences of false alarms that were being reported by remote video response centres (RVRCs). Rather than setting out restrictive guidelines for components and design specifics, the standard has been developed to eliminate issues such as the system failing to trigger when needed, and bogus alarms that can result from badly thought-out installations and poor operation. Now rolled out as an official standard, BS8418 has 2 primary purposes:
What are the benefits of a BS8418 monitored CCTV camera system?
When a camera surveillance system is implemented and designed properly, control room staff can provide a much better service, with their time focused on handling actual, real-time events, instead of being side-tracked by false issues created by insufficient systems. When the standard was first unveiled, it provided an additional opportunity for suppliers and customers to install a system that could in the future be granted ‘first response’ status by the Association of Chief Police Officers – who adjusted the ACPO Security Systems Policy to include this type of onsite security measure. However, for a monitored CCTV surveillance system to meet first response requirements, the design must include a facility for monitoring staff to issue a warning via a speaker, as per the latest iteration of the standard: BS8418:2010. This audio aspect allows control room personnel to tell the intruder that they’re trespassing on private property, are being monitored via onsite cameras, and should remove themselves from the area with immediate effect. In many cases, this warning is sufficient to persuade the offending party to leave – especially as many triggered events are an accidental breach, rather than a genuine incident. Details of the unauthorised entry can be logged on the reporting system, but require no further action. Of course, if the audio challenge to leave is ineffective, the person needs to be removed from the protected site – so the designated keyholder is advised of the breach and asked to attend. With the RVRC operator being connected to the site by audio, there’s the additional benefit of being able to provide ‘back up’ once a responder is in attendance. Having someone watching the area, while simultaneously being able to communicate their observations, offers real peace of mind. When suppliers work towards the compliance standards, the end-user will benefit from:
What should you expect as the customer?
The specifics of how operators manage alarms and site monitoring are truly flexible with this type of camera surveillance security system, and response actions can also be defined according to business needs. The specification, plus clear details of how the system will be designed and implemented (including the exact operational parameters it offers), should all be stated in the proposal/scope of work provided by the supplier. This document should evidence best practice and all considerations made to ensure that the system is effective and completely fit-for-purpose – this should include details of audio challenge functionality and quality, RVRC services and camera configurations. In essence, this standard-compliant document should leave the user in no doubt as to the system’s capabilities and how triggered alarms will be dealt with – while also allowing them to suggest any potential changes that could be made based on their personal knowledge of the site. Working towards a BS8418 compliant system that marries CCTV surveillance with activity-triggered capabilities offers a fantastic, advanced solution for businesses that need to ensure their site is secure inside and outside of operational hours. One of the greatest benefits is the flexibility it offers, giving owners all the usual CCTV functionality, with the added reassurance of a monitored system, and site response, when it’s most needed. The standard also requires these elements to be clearly defined and explained: