Horizontal Cabling for Video Surveillance Guide

Horizontal Cabling for Video Surveillance Guide 

Horizontal cabling for video surveillance connects individual security cameras from their wall outlets or mounting locations back to a main control room or telecommunications enclosure.

Complicated and particular cabling is required in video networks, especially in commercials or academic environments. The cables used in network cabling must be created from specific materials. Horizontal cabling is one of the primary cabling methods used in today’s structured cabling system.

Horizontal cabling expands from a video storage room (NVR/DVR) to the individual IP Camera outlets. It is typically installed in a star topology that connects each IP Camera to the video storage room. It consists of the I/O outlet, a consolidation point (optional), a horizontal cable, mechanical terminations, and patch cords, or jumpers, stationed in the Video storage room.

 Typically, 100 meters is about the limit for the length of a cable. And bear in mind that this standard also applies to patch leads. Of course, every kind of cabling has its own limits, but it’s important that you understand what the standards are and make sure you are properly using cables.

The environment you run your cables through can make a distance. Areas that are too hot can lead to your network to fail, which is also true of excessive moisture. The best environments for cabling are areas that are cool and dry, so if your cables are run through an area that’s excessively hot or humid, you may need to set up equipment to help adjust those conditions.  A burst steam pipe can wreak havoc on your system (yes, we’ve repaired that, too).

There are a few options when it comes to professionally installing horizontal cabling for video surveillance networks. The three options examined here are:

·       'Direct Attached', where the first terminates the field cabling with an RJ45 modular plug, and connects it directly to the camera.

·       'Jack & Patch', where the cables are first terminated to a jack or patch panel, and then connected to security devices by patch cord.

·       'MPTL', Modular Plug Terminated Link is a hybrid of the two methods above with a female jack / patch panel at the head end and an RJ45 modular plug on the far end connecting directly to the camera.

Inside this report, we explain the options, tradeoffs, and elaborate on the pros and cons of each method.

The Three Methods

Direct Attach Method: The most common method of attaching devices to a network is simply plugging each terminated end into a device. Cables are run directly to a switch and to a camera or controller in the field, using an RJ45 modular plug at both ends of the cable. Testing is performed from these plugs across the length of the single cable.

However, many cite a second more permanent method is better despite being more complex:

Jack and Patch Approach: According to the 12th Edition of BICSI's TDMM and prior, all horizontal cabling should be terminated in the closet end on a patch panel, and in the field, on a jack. Starting in later editions, this requirement was relaxed for security equipment and other installations where accessibility may be difficult or tampering may be a risk.

Connections are made from the patch panel to switch, and from the jack to device with patch cords. The resulting section of cable from patch panel to jack is called the 'permanent link'. Typically jacks are installed in a wallplate for interior cameras, and patch from the plate to the camera. In exterior applications, jacks are commonly mounted in junction boxes.

Most recently ANSI/TIA has added a hybrid approach.

MPTL (Modular Plug Terminated Link): The standard ANSI/TIA-568.2-D, published in 2018, includes a specification for horizontal cabling which is is a hybrid of both 'Jack and Patch' and 'Direct Attach' cabling methods. The standard specifies a female jack on one end and a male plug on the other end. In surveillance networks this is typically a patch panel port at the head end patched to an NVR or switch, and the far end terminated with an RJ45 modular plug connected directly to the camera. This method offers the benefit of using patch panels for organized termination at the head end with the ease of installation at the far end.

The Heart Of The Debate

Historically, the major issue driving this debate is the 'modified permanent link' which modular plugs create. Since cables are specified by standards to be terminated in the typical link fashion, testers were created to test the normal permanent link, resulting in not-quite-accurate tests when testing through a modular plug.

In 2020 this is no longer a practical concern as certifiers are equipped to test, the permanent link, full channel, and most recently MPTL.

Building automation systems have used the direct attach method for years, as it was recognized by TIA standards that in some cases a jack and patch cable are impractical or unserviceable. Current Editions of BICSI's Electronic Safety and Security design reference have come to the same conclusion.

However, it should be noted that security applications break other fundamental rules of BISCI standards, such as each outlet being mounted 18" above finished floor with two cables run to it. Security devices, just like BAS devices, are application-specific, and different standards apply while respecting original intent where possible.

Which Method Should I Use?

While, practically speaking, there is nothing wrong with any of these methods, and much is left up to preference, directly attaching plugs is generally preferred by the majority of integrators. There are two main drawbacks which may be a problem when using this method:

·       Cable flexibility: In UTP cable used for horizontal runs, each of the eight conductors (four pairs) is made from a solid copper conductor. In patch cables, each conductor is made up of multiple thin copper strands. This makes the conductor, and in turn, the entire cable, more flexible. For this reason, patch cables may be able to fit into tight domes where sharp bends are without straining or pinching the cable where solid conductor cable would have issues. Strictly speaking, however, according to standards, bend radius is four times the diameter of the cable, regardless of solid or stranded construction.

·       Modular plug construction: While Cat 5e cable is almost always 24 AWG, some manufacturers of Cat 6 and higher cables have sized conductors up to 23 AWG. Care should be taken when selecting cable/modular plug combinations, to make sure the plug is rated for the category cable being installed and will handle larger-gauge wire, or it may not work properly, or simply not at all.

Users should be aware of challenges in specific applications, as well:

Interior cameras: When installing interior cameras, the key consideration is where the camera will be mounted. If the cameras are to be wall-mounted, or in the case of warehouse or other open-ceiling environments, installing jacks is simple, either in a surface-mount or recessed box with wallplate. When using ceiling-mounted domes, however, installation is trickier. As discussed in our installation issues update, exposed connections are not allowed by code above drop ceilings. This means that, unless the dome has room enough to install a jack inside it (which is unlikely), a junction box must be provided to house the connections, making the direct attach method much simpler.

Exterior cameras: Using jacks in exterior locations can be much trickier than their interior counterparts. If using box cameras, a jack may be located in the housing. However, exterior domes are as unlikely as their interior counterparts to have enough space to locate a jack and patch cable. If an enclosure is provided, for surge protection, wireless equipment, or other needs, the jack may be located there. In most cases, however, the direct attach method will be simpler.

No matter which method is used, care must be taken during installation. Maximum cable pulling tension and not exceeding bend radii should be observed. All components should be matching category rated, including mod plug and patch cables. If all of these are followed, connections should experience few issues.

Best Practices for Installation

Outdoor Protection: Use UV-resistant or shielded (STP) cables if any portion of the horizontal run is exposed to outdoor elements or electrical interference.

Avoid CCA: Do not buy copper-clad aluminum (CCA) wire because it breaks easily and fails standard resistance tests

 REF: IPVM, John.

Advanced Surveillance Solutions for Homes & Businesses

Advanced Surveillance Solutions for Homes & Businesses

We all consider security, whether it's safeguarding our business from possible dangers or keeping our family secure at home. You may install an alarm system and lock your doors, but is it sufficient?

In light of shifting crime rates and changing security threats, having an additional set of eyes—ones that never blink—can be crucial. Axis security cameras can help with that. They do more than simply record video; they change the way we perceive safety.

🛡️ Core Technologies Unique to the Axis Brand

·        Axis Zipstream Technology: A highly intelligent video compression engine that maps out details (faces, moving targets, license plates) while heavily compressing static areas (walls, skies). It reduces network bandwidth and NVR storage costs by over 50%.

·        Axis Edge Vault: A dedicated, hardware-based cybersecurity platform embedded directly into the internal chips of modern Axis cameras. It features secure boot sequences and cryptographic IDs to protect the camera from network tampering or data breaches.

·        Lightfinder 2.0 & Forensic WDR: Instead of immediately switching to low-quality black-and-white infrared imaging, Axis keeps video streams in full, identifiable color even under moonlight conditions.

🛡️ Why Security Cameras Are Essential for Homes?

Let's face it, nobody enjoys the thought of a break-in. It's eerie. However, the truth is that residences without security cameras are more vulnerable to burglaries. The installation of Axis Security Cameras outside your property serves as a strong warning: "This home is protected." And preventing crime isn't the only goal.

During your absence, you may also use these cameras to watch over deliveries, children playing outside, or even your pets. They are a need rather than a luxury in modern society.

🛡️ What Makes Axis Security Cameras Stand Out?

Why choose Axis when there are so many security camera brands available? There is more to Axis Security Cameras than just video capture. They contribute to innovation with attributes such as:

·        Crystal-clear HD & 4K resolution: Since no one benefits from unclear footage.

·        Smart motion detection: recognizes the difference between a moving tree limb, a human, or an animal.

·        Remote access: No matter where you are, keep an eye on everything from your phone.

·        Weather-resistant build: Rain or shine, this is ideal for outside security.

·        AI-driven analytics: detects anomalous activities and promptly notifies you.

Axis security camera reviews are enough to say about its benefits. You can stay ahead of any possible attack with these smart security systems, which are more than simply cameras.

🛡️ Types of Axis Security Cameras & Their Best Uses

Your house and loved ones are always safeguarded when you invest in Axis Security Cameras, which are like having an additional pair of eyes that never blink. Here's how homeowners may actually benefit from these cameras:

·        24/7 Real-Time Monitoring: You have total control over your home security thanks to live streams and recorded video.

·        Superior Night Vision: Darkness is a common cover for criminal activity. However, Axis cameras' cutting-edge infrared and low-light technologies allow them to capture incredibly clear video even in complete darkness.

·        Smart Motion Detection & Instant Alerts: These cameras are capable of differentiating between a genuine burglar, a falling limb, and a passing animal. If any questionable behavior is found, you are notified in real time so you can respond right away.

·        Seamless Smart Home Integration: Axis cameras integrate seamlessly with smart home systems, enabling you to manage security configurations, view recorded video, and even program reactions (such as activating lights upon detecting activity) from a single application.

🛡️ Benefits of Axis Security Cameras for Homeowners

Axis security cameras enhance your safety rather than only being wall-mounted. They assist homeowners in the following ways:

·        Real-time monitoring: You may check in at any moment, whether you're at work or on vacation.

·        Enhanced safety at night: Even in complete darkness, sharp video is guaranteed thanks to advanced night vision.

·        Easy integration with smart home systems: Just a few phone touches will control everything.

·        Prevent package theft: Catch porch pirates in the act to keep them away.

·        Peace of mind: It is vital to know that your family and belongings are secure.

🛡️ How Axis Security Cameras Improve Business Security

Security cameras are so effective because of their inconspicuous presence, which promotes alertness, deterrent, and peace of mind. However, not every camera has the same function. While some are designed to be discreet, others boldly declare, "We're watching."

The many Axis security cameras and their optimal locations are broken out here:

·        Dome Cameras: These are very effective yet less obvious because they mix well with their environment, making them perfect for homes and businesses.

·        Bullet Cameras: Their obvious presence discourages would-be attackers before they ever do anything, making them excellent for outdoor security.

·        PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Cameras: Perfect for expansive homes or commercial spaces, this feature enables users to follow activity across huge regions and zoom in.

·        Thermal Cameras: A revolutionary solution for businesses that require 24-hour monitoring, even in the event of total darkness or fog.

·        Wireless Cameras: For people who want flexibility and a simple setup without having to deal with tangled wires, this is the perfect option for you.

Since there is no one-size-fits-all approach to security, there is an Axis camera made to match your unique requirements, regardless of the kind of property you are protecting.

🛡️ Choose SSA Integrate Surveillance For a Security Solution

When it comes to security solutions, SSA Integrate is a name you can trust. They offer a wide range of Axis Security Cameras with expert guidance to help you choose the best setup for your home or business. They design hardware ecosystems categorized by tiers: the M-Series for affordable excellence, the P-Series for versatile professional setups, and the Q-Series for advanced mission-critical performance.

Whether you need a single camera or a full surveillance network, they have solutions that fit your needs and budget.

🛡️ Conclusion

It's important to take security seriously. Axis Security Cameras provides state-of-the-art solutions that keep you safe around the clock, whether you're at home or at work. Their goal is to stop occurrences from occurring in the first place, not only to document them. 

Purchasing axis surveillance cameras is one of the finest choices you can make for your safety and peace of mind because of its intelligent technology, dependable operation, and knowledgeable assistance.

🛡️FAQ’s

1. Are Axis Security Cameras easy to install?

Ans: In fact! While many Axis cameras are easy to install and plug in, some may need to be professionally set up for more complex settings.

2. Can I access my Axis Security Camera feed remotely?

Ans: Of course! No matter where you are, you may watch recorded clips and live footage from your computer or phone.

3. Are Axis cameras suitable for outdoor use?

Ans: Actually, they are made to endure a range of weather situations, guaranteeing dependable operation come rain or shine.

4. Do Axis Security Cameras work at night?

Ans: In reality, they come with advanced night vision technology, so you’ll get clear images even in complete darkness.

5. How do Axis Security Cameras improve security for businesses?

Ans: They assist in keeping an eye on worker behavior, deterring theft, guaranteeing the security of customers, and offering important proof in court.

 

How to add a microphone to an IP Camera

How to add a microphone to an IP Camera

Most security cameras that are outdoor rated do not come with built-in microphones to ensure that no water can leak in. This means that you must add an external security camera microphone to these cameras in order to record audio. CCTV Camera World carries microphones for indoor or outdoor cameras. Most IP security cameras with audio input capabilities have an RCA audio connector on their pigtail for connecting a microphone. Some dome IP cameras have a connection block on the inside of the dome. In either case, physically connecting and configuring external microphones to an IP security camera is easy as shown in this guide.

How to tell which camera you have?

In case you are unsure, here's a quick image to help you understand which type of audio connection your IP camera has.

Depending on whether your camera has a RCA or two-wire line in connection, please follow the appropriate section below.

1.   Connecting a microphone using RCA input

2.   Connecting a microphone using two-lead wire

3.   Enabling audio-input on the camera

 

 

 

Setup for IP Cameras with RCA Audio Input connectors

What's needed?

Here is what you need to connect a microphone to an IP camera that has RCA audio inputs:

1. Outdoor Microphone (sku 71891) or Indoor Microphone (sku 7100CC)
2. 12V DC 500mA Power Supply (sku 12V5MA)
   You can also use PoE Power Splitter (sku POE101D) with DC Power Splitter Cable (sku DC-PJJ)
3. RCA Male to RCA Male Adapter (sku RCA01)

How to connect a microphone to an IP camera that has RCA audio input

Below is a diagram of how to connect an external microphone to the RCA audio connector on an IP camera.

It is easy to connect a mic by following these easy to follow steps:

1. Connect the microphone to the RCA audio input on the camera's pigtail using a RCA Male to RCA Male connector
2. For longer runs between the camera and microphone you can use an RCA cable with male ends to connect the input and output.
3. Connect the power connector from the 12V DC Power Supply to the female power jack on the microphone.

Alternatively, you can also use a PoE Power Splitter with a 1-to-2 DC Power Splitter to use PoE power for the microphone and camera. Simply connect the PoE cable into the PoE splitter. Then split the power to the camera and microphone using the DC splitter. The data cable for the PoE splitter then connects to the camera for data.

After you have correctly wired the microphone to the camera you can continue to the rest of the article to find out how to enable the cameras audio input for listening and recording.

Setup for IP Cameras with Audio Line-in Input

Some IP security cameras include an internal audio line-in block or a two-wire lead that requires a two-lead connection for connecting a microphone. At first it may seem puzzling how a microphone with a RCA connection would connect to a two-wire input. As an example, in the section below we use a video balun, BNC to RCA connector, and two-lead wire to connect the microphone to the line-in block.

What's needed?

You will need the following items to connect a microphone to a camera with a line-in audio connection consisting of two-lead cabling.

1.   Outdoor Microphone - (sku 71891) or Indoor Microphone (sku 7100CC)

2.   12V DC 500mA Power Supply (sku 12V5MA)
You can also use PoE Power Splitter (sku POE101D) with DC Power Splitter Cable (sku DC-PJJ)

3.   Video Balun (sku VB2PHD)

4.   BNC Female to RCA Male Connector (sku BNCRCA02)

5.   Two-lead Wire for the balun

Best Practices for Using A Two-Way Audio Security Camera

Whether you have a security camera system for a home or business, the need for two-way audio interaction with talk-back capability may arise. CCTV Camera World offers solutions for both one-way and two-way audio. One-way audio is great for listening to sound originating from the location of a camera, but it will not allow interaction with a person at that location. To be able to interact with a person at the camera, the camera would have to have two-way talk capabilities, i.e. a speaker and microphone built-in similar to an intercom.

Two-Way Audio Setup With PoE NVR

Step 1) Connect cameras to NVR

In this guide, we will be using our security camera with two-way audio, sku IP3MPA.  It is a two-way audio IP camera that allows the user to not only listen-in, but also talk back to the person at the camera. These cameras are very easy to connect using the plug-and-play technology. In the video demonstration above we show how easy it is to connect our PoE IP cameras to our PoE NVRs. Simply connect the cables between the camera and the NVR. A single network cable transmits power and data to each camera from the NVR, and plug-and-play technology handles IP address configuration between the camera and NVR without user intervention.

Using a Web Browser for Two-Way Audio

Our camera systems allow the user to engage in two-way talk over the network by using Internet Explorer on a computer or by using our iOS and Android apps for both phones and tablets. First, we will demonstrate how to use the web portal called Web Service in our security systems. A Windows PC running Internet Explorer is required for two-way talk capability through the web browser. To be able to talk-back, you will need to make sure you have a headset or combination of microphone and speaker on your PC to listen and talk-back.

All DVRs and NVRs from CCTV Camera World are network devices and have their own IP address. You first need to connect your security camera system to your network by assigning the DVR/NVR an IP address that fits your network scheme. Once that is complete, you will be able to view your system from a computer or smartphone and use the two-way audio feature over the network. If you wish to view the system over the web when away from home, you will need to set port forwarding rules on your router's firewall to allow remote viewing from the internet.

Once your system is properly connected to your network and port forwarding rules have been created on your firewall, you will be able to engage in two-way audio communication using your smartphone, tablet, or PC from anywhere in the world where Internet is available.

Step 2) How to use two-way talk on Internet Explorer

1.   Open an Internet Explorer window on your Windows PC and type in either your NVR's IP address for local viewing, or external IP address for remote viewing.

2.   Type in your system's username and password, and select Login.

3.   Make sure audio is enabled in your two-way camera by going to Setup and Encode.

4.   Click the Audio Enable check boxes for both the Main and Sub Streams (if they are not already checked).

5.   Select OK to ensure your settings have been saved.

6.   Click the Preview tab to view your camera's live feed.

7.   Select the channel by clicking the quadrant containing the video feed. A green frame will appear around the video feed to distinguish the selected channel.

8.   Select the Speaker Icon in the top-right corner of the selected camera's video feed for one-way audio. This will allow you to hear audio that's taking place at the location of your camera.

9.   To talk back and send out audio through the camera's speaker, select the Microphone Icon in the top-right corner of the selected camera's video feed. You will need either a headset with microphone, or a combination of microphone and computer speakers to listen and talk back.

Now you will be able to listen and talk back to someone at the location of your camera. Note that you will be able to listen to camera audio feeds one at a time - you will not be able to listen to multiple audio feeds simultaneously. Multiple users can listen to one-way audio from a camera, but the talk back function is done by one user at a time.

If a computer is not available to view your two-way audio camera system, then proceed to the next section where we explain how to use two-way talk with a smartphone or tablet.

Two-Way Audio Interaction Using iOS or Android Phone/Tablet

A more convenient way of viewing you security camera system and engaging in two-way audio talk is through your mobile device. The App allows the user to hear incoming audio from the camera and uses the microphone from the phone to talk back, sending out audio through the camera's speaker.

Step 3) How to use Two-Way Talk with a Smartphone or Tablet

1.   First, Open the app (iDMSS) on your iPhone or Tablet (or gDMSS for Android devices).

2.   Select the Menu Icon in the top-left corner, and choose Device Manager.

3.   From here, select the Plus Sign in the top right corner,  Wired Device and then IP/Domain.

4.   Fill out the appropriate credentials of your NVR. You will need to create two entries - one for viewing at the location of your system using Wi-Fi, and second entry for when viewing remotely over the internet away from home. We have a tutorial on how to create entries for both local and remote viewing. After all credentials have been entered, select Start Live Preview.

5.   Select the camera channel you want to engage in two-way audio with by tapping the video feed from that camera, and then press the Speaker Icon. The speaker icon allows the user to  listen to incoming audio from the camera and talk-back sending out audio through the camera's speaker.

Briefly, here is what we did:

1.   Open the dome cover of the camera using the included hex-key tool. Do not use powered screwdrivers or drills or you will damage the dome.

2.   Connect the BNC Female to RCA Male connector to the balun.

3.   Connect the RCA Male tip to the RCA input on the microphone.

4.   Use the video balun to wire in the two lead wire, tighten the screw-downs for the wires.

1. Make sure that you remember the polarity for your wires. We suggest using Red for the positive wire, and Black/Striped for the ground/negative wire.
2. Having a bad connection or the wrong polarity will not record sound or have loud interference.

5.   Locate the small rubber insert next to the Audio/Alarm block and create a small hole for the wires.

6.   Slightly unscrew the screw-down for the Audio-In connector on the block. Insert the positive wire from the video balun and screw it down.

7.   Slightly unscrew the screw-down for the ground connector (GND). Insert the ground wire from the video balun and screw it down.

8.   Run the power cable for the microphone to the 12V DC power supply that is connected to a 220V AC power outlet. Connect the power supply to the microphone.

a)   Alternatively you can use a PoE splitter with a 1-to-2 DC power splitter.

b)   Connect the PoE cable for the camera to the PoE splitter. Then connect the PoE splitter to the 1-to-2 DC power splitter.

c)   Connect the camera and microphone to the DC power splitter connectors.

d)   Connect the RJ45 jack coming from the PoE splitter into the pigtail on the camera.

Once you finally have your camera and microphone connected you can continue to follow the rest of this guide to learn how to enable audio input on the camera.

How to enable audio recording on an IP camera

After everything is connected you must configure the camera to recognize and use the external microphone. This step is extremely important before trying to listen and record a camera. Do not assume that the camera is automatically recording audio when you plug the microphone in.

Using Internet Explorer to enable and modify audio settings

In the video below we show how to use Internet Explorer to login and modify the settings on an IP camera. This process requires knowing what the IP address of the camera is. After that it is as easy as logging in and going to the Settings page. Navigate to the Camera > Audio page. There you will find the audio settings for the camera. You can enable audio for Main-stream or Sub-stream, fine tune the volume settings, and enable the noise filter. Also if a camera has a built-in microphone you can set it to use the external microphone instead.