How Do IP Cameras Work, And What Are Their Benefits?

Home / Blog / How Do IP Cameras Work, And What Are Their Benefits?

An IP camera or Internet Protocol camera is not the usual type of camera. These cameras are used for surveillance purposes, and they use the network that connects our computers and mobile devices to render their services. Unlike other surveillance cameras, IP cameras do not require a local recording device but a local network. This network helps us watch over our surroundings from anywhere in the world.

An IP camera addresses or identifies itself through an IP address. The components of an IP camera include sensors, lenses and amplifiers

The Working Of An IP Camera

An IP camera is very similar to a normal analogue camera with an analogue digital converter and a microcomputer; all of this is set up in one box. The camera possesses a lens and a sensor which converts light into electrical signals. The analogue digital converter inside the IP camera captures these analogue signals and converts them into a digital stream. 

The digital stream comprises binary language or binary codes, ones and zeros. Each of these codes represents the colour and intensity of each picture element captured. The microprocessor inside the IP camera compresses the video; some technologies provide the best compression. The microcomputer places the coded video into packets and sends them to the local network. 

Each IP camera is identified through an internet protocol address. The IP cameras these days come with higher resolution lenses which, compared to analogue cameras, let people see their surveillance with better clarity. These videos can be stored on a computer's hard disk, which increases security. 


You can also read about different types of CCTV cameras

What are the advantages of an IP Camera?

Security cameras have become a prevalent device in our day-to-day life. Security cameras can be strong deterrents against thieves, unauthorised access, and other untoward events. They help create an intent that precisely conveys that the area is under strict surveillance, which will amp up the security of the space. 

When security is the primary concern, it is necessary to pick up the best surveillance cameras. 


Let us take a look at the benefits of keeping an IP camera for our security:

Video Analytics

IP cameras have a vast amount of storage when compared to analogue cameras. Every movement around your home or office is recorded effectively. As the recording process happens simultaneously, there is no requirement for personnel to always keep a watch on the camera feed. If the camera detects an unauthorised person, it is sure to note through an alarm which will alert security. The analytic function of an IP camera includes trip wire, image tracking and motion detection.  

Embedded Linus and Networking system

IP cameras enable the streaming of video to more than one client. The streams are encrypted using effective technology, making them immune to hacking and tampering. 

Newer technology, Better results

IP cameras now have better video compression compared to the previous version of MPEG 4. The new version is called H.264, which provides twice the compression of MPEG 4. H.264 gives the same video quality at the lowest bit rate, making it a good choice for video security cameras. The high-definition video recording helps the IP cameras to capture the facial features and the licence plates of vehicles. 

Accessibility

The feed from IP cameras can be accessed from anywhere in the world. The accessibility is limited to people with the right login credentials to enter the system. 

Compatibility and Multi-functionality

IP cameras can be easily integrated with other web-based applications. This gives rise to an immense scope and opportunity through using IP cameras for security purposes. 

Security

IP cameras have an encrypted data security system, making them safer than analogue cameras.