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Introduction to Digital CCTV
CCTV has been used by organisations as an integral part of site security and surveillance for a number of years. Recent advances in technology have significantly reduced the cost of implementing state-of-the-art digital CCTV systems to replace outdated analogue systems. As with any new technology, it is often difficult to find answers to simple questions without getting indepth into technology, so Infoniks Systems have put together a series of frequently asked questions to help you understand more about digital CCTV. Feel free to browse this section, and if you don't find what you are looking for, then please feel free to contact us through any of the methods provided, and one of our sales team will be in touch.
What is digital CCTV?
How does a digital CCTV work?
Why do I need a digital CCTV?
How can I get a digital CCTV?
With digital CCTV systems costing as little as an analog system , it makes sense to at least consider implementing CCTV on your site. In addition, all systems from INFONIKS are modular so you can build and expand your network as your business grows. Explaining Digital CCTV Recent advances in technology over the past couple of years have revolutionised the security sector and, in particular, the methods available to monitor movement and access within a specific area. Not only affordable by big business, digital CCTV is now available to the open market due to significant reductions in price and availability.
Digital CCTV
Digital CCTV comprises of a PC based, multi channel video surveillance system that utilises the most advanced compression technologies to bring you the highest picture quality and video performance. Compared to analogue CCTV, a far greater number of CCTV cameras can be connected to your network and viewed, all through a single PC monitor. Completely upgradable, your network can be expanded quickly and easily by simply installing additional cameras. In addition, you are not restricted to the type of camera you wish to install as the CCTV software is able to support all cameras within the product range. If you already have an analogue CCTV system installed at your site, you may only require a simple upgrade of some of the elements on your network in order to adopt to a digital CCTV system. Picture quality of a digital CCTV system is far superior to that of an analogue system and has been used successfully in the prosecution of thieves, vandals, and trespassers for many years. All digital CCTV systems supplied by Infoniks Systems Pvt. Ltd are of world class quality.
Digital Video Recorders
The CCTV footage generated by your camera network is recorded on a dedicated Digital Video Recorder, which can be located either onsite or offsite. Triggered by motion detectors or movement on a CCTV camera, the DVR only records footage of activity so no "dead time" is unnecessarily stored. Sophisticated redundant back-up means that the DVR also records events of upto 5 minutes previous to the trigger.
A Digital Video Recorder is able to achieve digital storage multiplexing across up to 16 channels in one standalone box, so all CCTV footage from your site can be recorded on a single unit.
Working of a Digital CCTV System Digital CCTV is a relatively new technology that has proclaimed itself to be the next level in security monitoring systems. Recent advances in technology over the past couple of years has made digital CCTV available and affordable for virtually anyone to implement on their premises.
Versatile in design, digital CCTV operates across a standard ethernet, so no extra wiring is required in the majority of situations. Once installed on your premises, your digital CCTV network can be added to quickly and easily simply by installing new CCTV cameras and adding these to your CCTV software package. Once your network of CCTV cameras have been installed on your site, you are able to analyse both live and historic event-based video clips through your PC monitor using the CCTV Systems supplied with your system.
Digital CCTV is unique in that it will only record images when movement is detected. This ultimately means that you will only have CCTV footage of activity: when something occurs across the camera's field of view. The quality of the footage generated by your digital CCTV cameras means that high
quality images are generated, which can be used in a court of law to prosecute perpetrators. Analogue CCTV systems invariably are unable to do this.
The integrational capabilities of digital CCTV mean that in addition to working extremely well as a standalone security system, it can also be connected to other installed security equipment.
Do I need a Digital CCTV
As the world becomes less safe, businesses, institutions and individuals with valuable assets need to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. In many instances, modern digital CCTV is the best answer to crime detection and prevention. CCTV cameras are springing up all over the place. One of the reasons for the increased implementation of CCTV is its deterrent ability. A survey conducted back in January 2006 in UK found that over two-thirds of burglars would probably or definitely not burgle premises that had a CCTV installation.
By setting up a network of CCTV cameras on your premises, many locations can be viewed from a single monitor, thus decreasing your need for expensive manned guarding or "stop and search" checks.
If you already have a CCTV system
CCTV footage can be very soon used in a court of law if it complies with quality, storage, export and playback. Unfortunately, the majority of analogue CCTV systems fail to adhere to these requirements and so are useless when it comes to prosecuting perpetrators. Digital CCTV, on the other hand, records evidence quality video clips. CCTV systems that record to video tape are vastly impractical when it comes to finding specific events. By implementing a CCTV DVR, you are installing a fast, accurate retrieval and analysis system whereby footage can be found almost instantly by inputting a selection of parameters.
How can I buy a Digital CCTV
Every site is unique, and hence every CCTV installation is also unique. In order to provide you with the most effective digital CCTV installation, it is necessary for one of our engineers to visit you at your premises to discuss your particular security requirements. Armed with this information, we will be able to design a practical CCTV security system including covert and overt surveillance, if required. We will provide you with a detailed costed quotation, highlighting key areas of your site, together with sophisticated diagrams to show how your digital CCTV system will work. A range of installation dates will also be provided to give you an idea of when your CCTV system will be up and running.
Following agreement on your bespoke system, our engineers will deliver and install your CCTV equipment, ensuring that all elements of the system work as you require them to. Comprehensive training on all aspects of your digital CCTV system is available either at your own premises or at Infoniks headquarters. It is vital that you have a full understanding of your installed CCTV system, so that you can gain the most from it. Infoniks Systems Pvt. Ltd provide top quality maintenance contracts for your premises and guarantee a 24 hour response time, day or night, in the unlikely event of a failure.
Introduction to Access control
Access control systems allows authorized employees get in and out of various parts of your business while keeping other people out. They can range from simple electronic keypads that secure a single door to large networked systems for multiple buildings that can include parking lot gates, integration with time and attendance systems, and multiple levels of security. The increased security provided by a modern access control system is important to many types of businesses – and for businesses working with global contracts, it’s often a requirement. However, they also greatly simplify management of your facility: no need to replace lost keys, hunt down old keys from terminated employees, or wonder who has access to which areas. Infoniks Systems Access Control guide will help explain the basics of an access control system, the types of identification available, how to choose a system, and what you can expect.
Types of security access systems
One of the biggest considerations when choosing access control systems is how authorized users will identify themselves and/or unlock the door.
• Keypads are the most popular and least expensive type of security access systems. They’re easy to use but less secure, since users have a tendency to write down the entry code or share it with others. Unlike card systems, the code can’t be “given back,” so your security is instantly compromised.
• Card readers are also popular. Proximity cards, which only need to be held near a sensor, are the most common, but fingerprint readers and other biometric technologies are becoming very popular depending on the level of security required. When cards are lost, it’s a simple matter to deactivate them and issue new ones.
• Biometric systems, including fingerprint, voice, facial recognition , vein pattern analysis and iris scanners, are by far the most secure security access systems. However they are also considerably more expensive and can seem invasive to employees forced to use them constantly. For most business security applications, card or keypad systems are sufficient and a better buy. In general, card-based security access systems are less intrusive than biometric systems, and more secure than keypad systems.
Of course you’ll also need a lock that the security access system can control electronically. The two main door options are electric strikes and magnetic locks. Electric strikes are generally cheaper and are better for doors that allow free exiting from a secure area; magnetic locks are somewhat better for situations where users have to check in and out of secure areas.
How to prepare for an access control purchase
Before you start investigating access control systems, it is very important to determine the purpose the system will serve. The most basic role of an access control system is to keep out anyone who’s not supposed to enter an area. This can be the front door, a parking garage, a server room, a personnel records room, or any other sensitive area. All computerized access control systems keep records of when doors where opened and by whom. However, you may want one that functions as part of a time tracking system, to automatically punch employees in and out for payroll purposes. The system will still only grant access to authorized users, but the focus is more on time tracking than on having airtight security. For this application, you'll need an access control system that is compatible with your time and attendance software. If your staff is working on shifts, this component is very important.
Another point to consider: how secure do you need the system to be? A basic system usually features a keypad and/or proximity card. Higher security applications may require multiple means of authentication (a card and thumbprint, for example) and include more redundancy. They're also more expensive.
Finally, consider what other systems are required to to be connected to your access control system. Monitored alarm systems and CCTV systems are two good examples. Make sure you include any connectivity requirements in your initial conversations with access control vendors.
Designing your system
Once you understand the basic role the access control system will serve, think about the number of doors you need to secure. Smaller installations may include just one: a server room with an proximity card lock is a common example of a very small access control system. Remember that not every door has to have access control — you can simply leave some locked and only give keys to appropriate personnel.
If you plan ahead a little when purchasing your system, you’ll find it fairly easy to expand later. The smallest systems, designed for one or two doors, are not very expandable, but many four and eight door systems can be linked together when you need to expand. Once you know the number of doors you’ll be securing, gather information on each one: the physical makeup and use of your doors will impact the type of locks and entry systems you need. Are some doors for customers, and some only for employees? Are the doors wood, steel, or aluminum and glass? Are any designated as fire doors? Do you have any garage doors or parking lot gates to control?
Larger installations may include more than one site. An access control system that can be operated over a network lets you manage the security at all your locations from a central point. Free exit and controlled exit systems. Another key distinction in access control systems is the difference between free exit and controlled exit systems. In a free exit system, there is no requirement for leaving a secure area. The system either detects someone approaching an exit (usually with motion sensors) and unlocks the door, or has a release button or bar that allows people to leave.
Controlled exit systems use the same security for travel in both directions: employees have to enter the code or wave their card to get in or out of the secure area. By law, access control systems have to be set up to allow people to exit if the system fails or power goes out. Controlled exit systems increase both security and your overall costs. Security access systems and locks There are several components to a security access control system. First you need a way for authorized users to identify themselves and/or unlock the door: Keypads are common for single door security access and less expensive systems.
They’re easy to use but less secure, since users have a tendency to write down the entry code or to “lend” it to others. They also don't provide detailed audit trails unless you provide each employee with an individual code.
Another point to consider: how secure do you need the system to be? A basic system usually features a keypad or proximity card. Higher security applications may require multiple means of authentication (a card and thumbprint, for example) and include more redundancy. They're also more expensive.
Card readers are the most popular option in commercial access control. They're easy to use, and when cards are lost, it's a simple matter to deactivate them and issue new ones. They can also be combined with photo IDs for additional security. Proximity cards, which can work from one inch to three feet from a sensor, are the most common. Because there's no contact between the card and reader, they're very reliable and suffer little wear and tear. They're also inexpensive. A specialized type of proximity card is the automobile tag, which allows access to a parking facility without requiring the driver to open their window or get out of the car. Automobile tags can work at hundreds of feet away from a sensor.
Biometric systems rely on physical characteristics of the users for identification such as fingerprints, retinal scans or even vein patterns. They are by far the most secure methods of access control. However, they are also considerably more expensive. They're also very unreliable outdoors, so they're not good for exterior security access. Smartcards carry larger amounts information on the card itself, such as employee records or spending account balances, instead of just an ID number that references a database. They get some good press but haven't made much progress into access
control — yet. In the future, as costs decrease and interoperability between different types of systems increases, their popularity may rise, but for now they remain a niche solution. Other types of sensors can be used in free exit systems: loop detectors, photo cells or beams, and motion detectors all function by detecting a vehicle or person approaching an exit and unlocking a door.
Locks and gates
You'll also need locks that the security system can control electronically. The two main options for locking standard doors are electric strikes and magnetic locks. Electric strikes are generally cheaper and are better for free exit doors. They're also more appropriate for standard wooden or steel doors. Magnetic locks are better for aluminum and glass storefront doors, as well as for controlled exit situations and emergency exits.
Often, door hardware will include sensors that know when a door is open and can send an alarm signal if the door is opened without clearance. Systems can also sound an alarm if a security access door is kept open for a specified amount of time. For restricting vehicle access, there are several options. The most secure are full garage-door openers. Almost as secure are various types of gates: sliding or swinging gates, depending on available space, move aside to let a vehicle into a parking lot. More common and much less expensive are automatic barrier arms that simply control the flow of traffic into a parking facility.
Access control systems software and features
One of the biggest differences between competing access control systems is the computer software used to run them. The software lets you set access levels for each ID and door, view reports, and conduct audits to see who used a door at a certain time. Make sure it’s easy to understand and use: access control systems should decrease administrative headaches, not introduce new ones. Ask for a demonstration of the software and see how easy it is to add new employees, change access levels, create groups, and find detailed reports.
Match the software with your computers' operating system carefully: some access control systems only work with specific versions of Windows or other operating systems, so know exactly what OS you're running before finalizing your decision. Most access control system software is powerful enough to handle the needs of companies up to at least a thousand users. When you start needing to manage multiple shifts, several thousand employees, and hundreds of doors, you drastically increase the overall complexity. At that level, you’ll likely want ODBC- compliant (Open DataBase Connectivity) software that can connect to your existing payroll, time and attendance, and other HR and security systems.
Additional access control system features to consider
• Timing — lets you set specified times when a door should lock and unlock. Particularly useful for doors that are open to the public at some times but only to employees at others.
• Tracking — Any computerized access control system will do some basic tracking of usage. Check out the available reports and see if they provide the level of detail you need.
• Battery backup — keeps your premises secure for hours, even during a power failure. • Template layouts — lets you create a graphic blueprint of your building and point and click your way around to change permissions for different doors.
• Badge printing — The vendor may be able to supply a specialized printer so you can create new cards as needed, with or without photos.
For some types of access control systems, you may also want voice communication capabilities, such as an intercom or a telephone-entry system. A simple intercom allows visitors to talk to a central control booth. Telephone-entry systems, common in large apartment buildings, allow visitors to dial a specific unit to request entry and let residents unlock the door using their phone.
Choosing an access control dealer
As with any major business purchase, it’s worth taking the time to ask a lot of questions when choosing an access control vendor. You want a vendor who is large enough to be stable and provide timely customer support when you need it, yet small enough to be responsive to your needs. Flexibility is also important: the vendor should be able to adjust to your specific requirements. The best vendors will ask you questions as well. They'll walk you through the specification process and help you find the solution that best fits your needs. They don't always need to see your facility, but they may do a site visit or ask you to send digital pictures of specific entry points. Avoid vendors who have the "perfect system for you" after five minutes of conversation — and by the way, it's on sale this week only!
Most access control vendors work with a wide range of customers, but you should look for one that has experience in your industry. In particular, don’t work with a company that handles mostly residential systems: for your business, you need commercial-grade access control. Many manufacturers produce residential versions that are considerably cheaper — but they are not as reliable and not built for the same amount of use as commercial systems. Controllers and software are more specialized, so make sure the dealer you choose has significant experience installing and supporting the brands you decide on. Factory certification from manufacturers indicates a greater level of training and support.
Integration and installation
In addition to providing you with the right products and appropriate support, the vendor you choose will also be responsible for installing your access control system and integrating it with any other related systems you have. There is no real standard for connectivity between access control and alarms, time and attendance, video surveillance, and software, so there will always be some custom work involved in creating links between these systems. However, an access control vendor should be
prepared for this and have experience with the type of systems you want to connect. There are international codes governing the types of locks and hardware that can be used on fire and exit doors, so make sure your vendor is familiar with the same. Installation can take anywhere from a couple of days to six weeks, depending on the total number of gates and doors being controlled by your system. The vendor will install the software on your computers, set up your first users, and install the locking and detection hardware. They’ll include some type of training on how to manage the software, but this can vary quite a bit from one vendor to another. For a basic system, an informal demonstration of how to create cards and reports should be enough, while on larger systems, you may need a more comprehensive training session.
Access control system pricing
Arriving at good estimates of access control system pricing is difficult: most accesscontrol vendors will want to discuss your needs in detail before providing you with estimates. That said, there are some general costs you can keep in mind. A complete keypad or card-based access control system for a single door is typically Rs.5000 to Rs.15000 . The more doors you add, the lower the per-door pricing is. These prices include everything – the hardware, software, and installation. The only exception is the cards themselves, which are usually priced separately. Access control system pricing increases when you start including additional components such as photo ID printers, door prop alarms, and higher-security locks. While the prices listed here can help you get an idea of your budget, your total costs will change throughout the project as you add and remove components. Budget-minded companies can buy the components and do their own installation, but you'll often need to hire a general contractor to do the hardware installation anyway, so the total savings aren't likely to be that much. In addition, professional installation helps guarantee that the system provides the security your business requires. Do remember to buy only commercial-grade equipment, not residential equipment: you'll get better reliability and more features. Your access control system pricing should include basic email and telephone support, at least for the first year. Some vendors provide lifetime support for products they install. Most dealers will also offer extended warranties or maintenance contracts, but the basic manufacturers' warranty is often sufficient for access control hardware. The components are relatively simple and don't have many moving parts, so they don’t tend to break down easily.
Security access control buying tips
Safe or secure? Different types of locking hardware can be "fail secure", meaning if the power goes out, the door remains locked from the outside, or "fail safe," meaning the door will unlock completely in a power failure. Both safety regulations and your own security requirements can have an impact on which type is right for your situation. (Remember that in a power failure, security doors must allow anyone inside to exit.) Reuse equipment. Hardware — locks, sensors, and card readers or keypads — is fairly interchangeable between different security access control systems, so upgrades and add-ons can incorporate existing materials.
Don't overbuy. Securing door after door inside your facility is likely to frustrate employees more than increase security. Don't feel like you have to include every door in a security access control system: a mix of card access and plain old keys is often the best combination. Focus your access control points on the perimeter of your building.
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