Internet security cameras are specially designed for remote monitoring. These
cameras can be accessed from any computer station connected to the Internet.
Internet security cameras can be used to know everything going around your home
or office by staying in any part of the world.
Internet security cameras usually have the ability to stream images instead
of displaying still images. The frame flow will create an illusion of moving
image. The frame rate may vary from 7.5 fps (frames per second) to 40 fps. Most
Internet security cameras have 30 fps. They can provide resolutions in multiple
ranges such as 640Ă—480, 320Ă—240 and 160Ă—120. Remember that with higher frame
rates resolution decreases.
Internet security cameras usually have features such as fixed lens with
manual focus, capability to pan, firmware updates, and protocol support. They
usually include Web server, IP address, e-mail and monitoring software. The
usual capacity to pan is 270 degrees. They can be tilted 90 degrees upwards and
downwards. The price range starts from $120 and goes into thousands.
The advantages of Internet security cameras include no requirement of
expensive coaxial, dedicated monitor, and driver installation, multi-user (2 to
10) accessibility, easy operation from viewer's PC. These cameras follow most
network protocols such as HTTP, FTP, TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, ARP, DHCP, and ICMP. They
can be used with a variety of operating systems. They transfer images as JPEG or
MPEG formats. Most new cameras have a built-in Web server to channel images
directly to the Internet. One disadvantage of low priced cameras is that an
intelligent person can gain access to your camera by guessing the URL/IP.
There are also internet security cameras with motion sensors, which can
detect anything moving within their perimeter. They automatically take snapshots
of the object and will save them on the computer or send to a particular
destination though e-mail. Many internet security cameras also have built in
microphones. Internet security cameras require high bandwidth, at least a
cable/ADSL level connection.
