FAQs

IP stands for Internet Protocol. An IP camera is a digital video system that can transmit data over a network. These systems work with mobile devices so that you can view your security feed from anywhere with an Internet connection. IP cameras may also be referred to as network cameras or webcams.

In a traditional security system, data is transmitted through a cable to a DVR (digital video recorder). With an IP camera, the Internet is used to transmit digital video. The unit contains everything it needs to do this. It’s connected to your network much like other external IT equipment like a printer. To store video, your IP camera may contain storage in-unit or it may transmit video to a device also connected to the network to be stored, also known as a network video recorder (NVR). Digital cameras and IP cameras capture images the same way, although the transmission method is different. Your quality won’t be compromised with an IP camera—in fact, the resolution is better.

For an IP surveillance system, you’ll need the actual IP cameras, an NVR or other type of storage system, accessories such as a microphones and speakers generally will come built into the cameras so additional parts will not be required. At IDView, we can help determine your needs and set you up with the best equipment for your budget.

You can use either a physical router for your network (wired) or a WiFi connection (wireless). Wired networks tend to be more secure and reliable, although WiFi is easier, it leads to the increased need for security. IDView can help you encrypt these networks and customize a wireless network to minimize chances of any problems with a WiFi setup. You may also choose to use a cellular network, which tends to be safer than WiFi, but also slower. IDView can discuss your options with you to determine which one would be best for your custom setup and security needs.

IP surveillance systems offer you many advantages that traditional CCTV systems don’t. They offer: · Higher resolution · Easy install · Improved capabilities for the cost · Faster and more reliable · Easy to manage · Easy to meet IT compliance regulations · And more!

DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. A Security DVR is a device that takes the video from analog cameras and converts it to digital format to be recorded on a hard drive. HD video can be recorded. These devices can go weeks or even months with no maintenance.

NVR stands for Network Video Recorder. This type of recorder is used only with digital cameras (IP cameras). It functions the same as DVR.

Motion detection is a software-based feature. When pixels in the image change, the software alerts the system to begin recording. You can set the sensitivity on most DVR/NVRs so that drive space isn’t wasted on every stray cat that wanders through the property.

Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are a traditional analog system of using cameras that use a DVR to record video. They’re reliable, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install. However, they don’t offer you the same versatility, high resolution, and higher security that IP cameras do.

Yes. All of our Security DVR/NVR systems are Internet enabled. That means you can view live and recorded video from anywhere via an Internet connection.

Yes. All of our Security DVR/NVR systems come with this feature. However, an optional audio module is needed to allow you to listen to live and recorded audio from anywhere via the Internet.

Most Internet-enabled Security DVR/NVR systems allow multiple users to view the same site simultaneously. However, as more people look at the same cameras/DVR/NVR at the same time, the bandwidth will be shared between them. This reduces image quality.

Yes. You can use your existing CCTV cameras. We offer a hybrid NVR which gives you the ability to use both Analog and Digital Cameras.

There are a number of factors that come into play. How many cameras are in the system? At what framerate (FPS) is the video being recorded? What size hard drive does the DVR/NVR have? Our preconfigured systems usually provide several weeks of archive when set to motion detect mode.

A video capture card, or DVR card, is the graphics card inside a DVR system that is used to capture the video feed and store it on the hard drive.

Yes. Onsite monitoring of both live and recorded video is possible.

Basic DSL or cable will suffice in most cases. DSL works for DVRs, but Cable is recommended for NVRs.

Yes. Make sure the Security DVR/NVR system you select comes with an audio option. Most analog cameras do not come with built-in audio, so you will probably need a separate audio kit if you chose analog cameras over digital.

This will depend on the size and layout of the area you wish to survey. On average, we recommend one camera per 600 square feet for an Analog System and per 1200 square feet for a Digital System.

IDView carries a large selection of security camera lenses, but the lens you will need depends on where and how you plan to use it, so check with our professionals to learn more and make a good choice.

Illumination is measured in units called Lux.

Most PC-based Security DVR Systems use Windows 7 Professional or above, and Standalone Security DVRs are Linux based.

Security DVR/NVRs will come back on as soon as power is restored. However, we suggest an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) which provides a short period of backup power and also serves as a surge protection device. This ensures your video surveillance will still be online in the event someone cuts the power to break in unnoticed.

Yes. If the alarm is triggered, the DVR/NVR can reach out to a monitoring service.

Our Security systems work with most PC-based and electronic cash registers. Contact us with the make and model of your register, and we can tell you if your system is compatible.

Use Siamese cable, which is an RG59 coaxial cable and a pair of 18-gauge wire in the same jacket, to make installation easy for Analog Cameras. Use Cat 5 or 6 for IP cameras.

Yes, but you need a special camera called a Pan-Tilt-Zoom or PTZ camera. Browse our selection of PTZ cameras, and find the one that is right for you. Or we can make recommendations based on your specific needs.

An auto iris lens provides a consistent video image in areas where light levels vary. This is important for maintaining a viewable stream in both high and low light situations.