Gemcell Australia

Forget everything you have ever heard about surveillance cameras! The future of electronic surveillance belongs to the IP camera, and the future is here! Digital technology gives the IP camera its super powers, yet digital technology can also enhance the capabilities of both new and existing CCTV systems. On the following pages we tell you how, and give you a taste of why digital will make life much harder technology for criminals, and a whole lot easier for prosecutors.

You are wheeling your trolley through the fruit and vegetable section of the supermarket on a Saturday afternoon. A display of nuts and dried fruit attracts your attention. The nuts look delicious, but you wonder just how fresh they are. So you glance right and left looking for supermarket staff but there are none around. Too easy! So you pick up a few cashews and pop them in your mouth not bad. But you didnt come in to buy cashews, so you move on.

Now you might have realised, as you munched down those half dozen nuts, that [technically] you were committing a crime. But what you might not have realised is that although there were no supermarket staff within sight, a video recording was made of you as you took the nuts out of the tray, looked right looked left, then ate them. In fact another closed circuit TV camera, one of many more installed all over the store, recorded your progress as you moved on around the store. Other CCTV cameras then took over as you entered the checkout, paid for your purchases (but not the nuts) and left the store. More cameras in the car park might have also recorded you packing your car and driving off.

Now we know that in most cases, the supermarket is unlikely to apprehend you for stealing six cashew nuts. But who is to say with all certainty that they wouldnt. So if the company decided to proceed and charge you with theft, they just might have enough evidence on their CCTV tape to convict you. What it would most probably come down to, if they decided to proceed, is whether you can be identified by the images on the CCTV networks DVR (Digital Video Recorder).

Big Brother may be smarter than you think!

Now before you start feeling smug because you were wearing wraparound sunglasses and a baseball cap, and you think CCTV surveillance camera pictures are usually not so clear and for both these reasons, identification will be difficult - think again. Police and security personnel have discovered that positive ID can be made in many other ways than by a recognisable picture of your face. That baseball cap may be exclusive, very distinctive and traceable to you by purchase records. Or, your cars licence plate may be identifiable from the camera in the car park. The point is that no matter where you go these days and no matter what you do, Big Brother is watching, and in the future BB is going to get a whole lot smarter than he is now.

Closed circuit TV surveillance systems are not renowned for their ability to make crystal clear image recordings. Most CCTV images are at best low definition and at worst grainy and indistinct, making it impossible in many cases for crime authorities to make positive identifications of criminal offenders by zooming in on their faces. So the crime investigation profession has become a whole lot smarter.

Case study number 1

A recent case of armed robbery in Queensland, where the investigating Police officer had little more to work with than about ten seconds of fuzzy CCTV footage, is an excellent example of why the face is not the only way a suspect can be identified. Now in this case - Poo Shoe Robber which was featured on the ABC TV program Catalyst, a pair of shoes that Police believed could possibly belong to the robber were taken from a suspect by detectives, and were brought in for inspection.

The Police officer investigating the CCTV images compared these shoes with images of the shoes worn by the robber in the CCTV footage, and looked for patterns or features that might be common to both. One of the frames of CCTV footage showed the tread of the running shoe worn by the suspect. The investigator noticed that the tread pattern of the shoe in the picture and the shoes brought in by the detectives were the same, but that was not enough to identify the shoes as the exact same pair.

The investigator then enlarged the CCTV image and noticed that something about the tread pattern was unusual. A dark patch obscured part of the tread. The investigator then realised that the dark patch obscuring the tread on the CCTV picture was an exact match for a patch of dog droppings on the sole of the left shoe brought in by the detectives. A positive identification of the shoes was then made and the suspect was subsequently convicted.

Case study number 2

In the United States early this year, an even more bizarre case involving cold-blooded murder was solved by analysis of images from CCTV cameras in the vicinity of the crime. According to the story by Joan Martelli and Joneil Adriano on the ABC News website abcnews.go.com, a woman who alighted from a bus in Philadelphia was murdered minutes later by a person who followed her from the bus and shot her in the back of the head. CCTV pictures from high tech cameras near the scene recorded the crime, but although the images were clear enough the angle of sight obscured the murderers face. So Police began to look for other cameras that may have photographed the crime from a better angle.

The CCTV pictures the Police had of the murderer showed the killer wearing a baseball cap, light jacket and dark coloured trousers. These features made it possible to identify the same figure on camera along the route as he ran across town, away from the scene of the crime. A camera in the parking lot showed the figure running away from the murder, and showed the direction in which he ran. By searching images from dozens of other cameras on buildings in that direction the investigators were able to pick up his progress on about ten of these as he fled from the scene until on the corner of Spruce and Sixth streets, they lost him.

Then a breakthrough! In desperation, Police released CCTV images of the killer to the TV stations in the hope that someone who recognised the killer might come forward. One of the leads generated by this appeal suggested that the killer might be a regular on the No. 33 bus, a person who worked at the same hospital as the victim. When Police examined footage from CCTV cameras at the hospital, they found an image of a person that matched the other images of the murderer - the same height, the same shape, wearing exactly the same cap and jacket and pants - entering the hospital half an hour after the murder had been committed. The CCTV evidence was sufficient for identification and when confronted by Police, the suspect confessed.

In Australia, a great many crimes large and small have been solved by analysis of images from surveillance cameras. So important has the role of surveillance camera footage become, in proving that crimes have been committed and identifying criminals, that security cameras seem to be everywhere these days. In just about every public space, cameras can be spied if you look for them. Some are hidden, but most are clearly visible to remind those who might be tempted to break the law that Big Brother is watching.

IP cameras. The future of video surveillance is clear!

Nowadays, there is something else that criminals should know. The days when the resolution of surveillance camera footage may be insufficient to enable clear identification of a suspects features (facial or otherwise) are numbered. New digital technology is beginning to replace analogue CCTV technology. Digital security cameras can capture pictures of much higher resolution than CCTV cameras and are a lot more versatile in what they can do and how they can do it. IP (Internet Protocol) cameras have their own intelligence and can be viewed from anywhere on your computer network, or from anywhere in the world via the internet. And high resolution IP cameras with zoom lenses can focus on faces in a crowd with amazing clarity.

IP camera installation sounds quite simple on paper, but if you make a mistake you can very quickly create problems on the network. That is why training and qualifications are so important.

Ian Millner - Milcom Communications

So apart from being able to capture sharp, detailed pictures, what makes IP cameras different to CCTV cameras? An IP camera is a stand-alone computer camera that can plug into a LAN on its own. Each IP camera has its own network address and security access making it possible to connect to the camera and view what the camera can see, from anywhere in the world.

Because IP cameras emit a digital signal and digital media can be compressed, image storage, retrieval and handling are easier. Each camera can be individually programmed and in addition, many IP cameras offer advanced features that are easy to manipulate. For instance, when movement is detected, alarms and snapshots can be easily pre-programmed, pan, tilt and zoom features can be built into each camera and each cameras software, and audio can be handled in real time both ways. IP cameras are easy to install, the cabling is simple and they can be hard wired or operated via wireless connections. Whereas CCTV cameras have to be connected via a co-axial cable, IP cameras simply hook into the LAN. However to get the best from them, IP cameras should be configured by suitably qualified IT professionals.

Using digital technology to enhance existing CCTV systems

In most cases, if you were planning a new surveillance system you would be well advised to consider the advantages of IP cameras. But what if you have a CCTV system that is working just fine, but you want to know if it can be extended, and improved in terms of resolution, storage and management. The answer could be a video server.

Video servers convert analogue CCTV signals into digital signals and can import IP capabilities into analogue systems. You can then view the video footage from the CCTV camera on computers and record it on a DVR. The video server will accept the analogue signals from the CCTV system via the co-axial cable. The video server would then convert the analogue signal into a digital signal and, once you have a digital signal you have the option of recording the converted footage from your CCTV cameras to digital recording equipment or a computer, or viewing the same footage over the internet.

Video servers are usually installed into a CCTV network at the point where the co-axial cables from the CCTV cameras merge. By installing a video server between each camera and TV, VCR or DVR, you could then install an ethernet cable from the video server to the LAN. The cameras analogue video signal can then be converted into a digital signal by the video server. This in turn allows you to record the digital footage to your DVR, your computer or view it on the internet from wherever in the world you can find a connection. If you have a mobile phone that operates on the 3G network, you can even access your cameras on the internet and view the footage on your mobile phone.

Generally speaking, most video servers come with a BNC OUT connection. This not only lets you send the converted digital signal to your computer or video recorder, but it also lets you retain the analogue signal so that you can also send it to your TV or VCR. With their built-in web servers, video servers also have additional capabilities that can further enhance the performance and functionality of your CCTV system. Alarm notification along with sequential snapshots can save time and money by triggering the system to operate only when it detects movement or a pre-programmed event, such as an opening door, and send a message to security personnel via email or FTP.

Other high tech facilities that are being incorporated into video servers include IVS (Intelligent Video Surveillance) and Video Analytics, which enhance the systems motion detection and motion tracking abilities. An object recognition capability is also available on some more advanced models, which can detect if objects have been either added or subtracted from the cameras field of view. However all the features described here may not be available on Australian models at this point in time, so it pays to check with your Gemcell dealer.

IP based CCTV systems of the future will also have PoE (Power of Ethernet) capabilities allowing for both video/audio and power to be transmitted over the Cat5E or Cat6 System (no need for local camera power source). Future requirements might require Cat7 bandwidth capabilities as per the NEXANS solution by OMEGA.

Aleksandar Stefanovic, Marketing Manager - Omega Power Equipment Pty Ltd

Another IP based solution, Digital Video Recorders can bring many of the advantages of digital technology to analogue surveillance systems, providing benefits in both operation and recording. When linked to a DVR, Omegas TeviCom range of analogue CCTV cameras offer resolution of up to 540 TV lines which can be viewed and controlled over a standard IP network.

Video intercoms: Big Brothers little brother

If all this is getting a bit too complicated, perhaps you might prefer to get back to basics. Basic video intercom sets are sureveillance systems at their simplest, and work surprisingly well if all you need to know is who is at your front gate and why. Offering B/W or colour video and two-way audio, video intercoms are surprisingly affordable, visibly discreet and relatively simple to install. And they can add a useful measure of security to homes and businesses where high level security and video systems are not required or are outside the owners budget.

Video intercoms can be as basic or as elaborate as you want them to be. Many systems can be customised by adding additional terminals, and some offer additional features. Clipsal, Panacom, Legrand, TeviCom and Housewatch all offer neat, compact video intercom systems. The price range varies according to features and capabilities so ask your Gemcell electrical wholesaler to show you the range.

Small home surveillance systems the next step up

Surveillance cameras for the home can be as simple as a single wireless audio-video camera. Useful for door and gate entry surveillance, or for surveillance of any area around the home. Units such as the Magnavox 970CAM allow you to use your TV as a monitor and your VCR as a recording device.

Magnavox 970CAMWireless Colour Camera

CCTV really does not get any more simple, or any less expensive than this. The Magnavox camera is weatherproof, so it is ideal for outdoor use. With a transmitting and receiving range of up to 80 metres, the 970CAM comes with its own 9V 300mA power supply and 2.4GHz antenna. A logical alternative might be something like a Home TV Surveillance System such as the TeviCom TTC-261/361 N/NM series.

Omega TeviCom TTC-261/361 N/NM

These systems are very neat, compact and unobtrusive in comparison to the long and bulky commercial cameras. In this system, the camera simply connects to the TV and VCR via a small distribution box that can be hidden away in a cupboard, under stairs or anywhere it is out of sight. Cameras are available in colour or B/W models, allowing wireless activation of the VCRs recording on motion. Built in motion detection and audio buzzer allow it to be used for small retail shops as an audio entrance notifier. A built in intercom system allows for true two-way intercom communication as well, all in the one unit.

IP camera – SOHO

CABACs IP camera SOHO is an entry level IP camera ideal for use in the home or small office. The IP SOHO is compact in size, yet able to capture digital 24 bit colour images at 30 frames per second. The in-built web server allows you to view the camera from your home or office, or anywhere in the world via the internet. Being an IP camera it does not need to be connected via a co-axial cable, but should be installed by a licensed technician.

Later this year a wider selection of IP based cameras and servers will be available through Gemcell outlets. Soon to be released, a new range from Omega will allow WiFi connection and true PoE (Power of Ethernet) linking.

Networked security cameras. Now youre getting more serious.

The need to move up-scale from small home and SOHO cameras into large home and commercial surveillance systems can present you with a number of choices. On the surface, it might appear obvious that IP cameras offer advantages over CCTV, and that the decision - when faced with a new system installation to opt for IP cameras - would be a no-brainer. But each installation should be designed with regard to all aspects of the property, the intended uses for the system, the owners needs and the financial constraints.

For instance, for an extensive home which might already have a large number of TVs and VCRs throughout the house, a CCTV system might make good sense, as the existing TVs can be used as monitors. The VCRs could be used as recorders if recording demand was not high, but if higher recording capacity and capability than the VCRs can provide is required, a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) might need to be added.

Being analogue, CCTV systems are connected via coax cabling and are limited by the extent of the coax network. However, in a commercial complex that has a Local Area Network in place, IP cameras would be a logical choice for installation of a new system, in some part due to the ease of installation in this scenario. The IP cameras do not need any further cabling if a LAN is in place, as each IP camera simply connects to the network in any place you want. Cabling is point to point, camera to device, and each IP camera is a computer, with its own web server and web address. So all you have to do to is to go to the web address of each camera to view it on line. And you can do that anywhere in the world that a connection is available.

In addition, IP cameras can (generally speaking) send and record images of higher resolution than CCTV cameras. In many installations this may not be an advantage or a disadvantage either way, but in a situation where identification of faces could be vital to law enforcement agencies, such as security cameras in large public places such as malls or sports arenas or cameras placed in banks, IP cameras can give security personnel the advantage of being able to scale up an image of a crowd scene and in many cases, be able to identify individual faces. In comparison, CCTV cameras would need to be very highly sophisticated in order to perform a similar task.

IP camera selection, not for the uninformed or feint-hearted!

This is not as simple as just choosing off the shelf. The selection procedure for an IP surveillance camera can be a lot more complicated than choosing a digital camcorder, and a number of factors need to be considered, weighed up and even calculated. For this reason you may benefit from the advice of an IP camera professional.

For instance, will a fixed camera take in everything the camera needs to view, or will you need a PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) camera? If you are going to get it right, you will need to survey the site.

Secondly, you will need to determine what level of resolution you will need. Do you need clarity sufficient to make out peoples facial features? If so, you will require high resolution, but just how high do you need to go?

Next, you might need to consider which lens you will need. Some cameras (usually low end) come with a standard lens which can be OK in a majority of situations. But you can interchange lenses on most of the higher end IP cameras and if you want to make the most of the IP cameras capabilities, you may want to select the optimum lens for the job.

A camera is not always working in optimum light, so light sensitivity is the next factor you may want to consider. Again, you may require specialist knowledge so if you are not sure, consult a professional. You may also need professional advice on power supplies and enclosures.

I am not saying that camera selection is too hard for the average bloke, but what I do want to emphasise is that you really do need to do your homework if you want to get it right. Especially if you consider a couple of other factors that, if you are going to get the best results from your IP cameras, must also be decided (see below).

Video management software.

IP cameras usually come supplied with a basic software package. Typically, the cameras software enables one camera individually, or many cameras to be viewed at any one time. The software is programmable to enable a given set of functions including the following (these examples are from CABAC):

• Setting of frame rates
• Configuring compression
• Selection of recording modes including the following:
  • Continuous recording,
  • Detection of movement,
  • Alarm settings,
  • Scheduled recording
• Retrieval of events
• Alarm management using E-mail, Sound and Pop-ups
• Access from any computer in the world with internet connection
• 2-way audio from camera to monitor and back to camera
• Control of PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) functions.

Understanding compression.

Video compression sounds complex but once familiar with the basic principles it is really quite simple in concept. A number of methods are employed for compression of electronic media - the MPEG system is a common format. MPEG recognises that most cameras are in a static position, and as such, send the same image along the line frame after frame. There may be people moving in the centre of the image, but the background remains identical.

The compression program can distinguish this, by comparing each new frame with the last frame, and is able to leave the unchanging portion of the image as it is while sending only the portion of the image that has changed. This means that only a fraction of the recording space (or recording media) is needed to record the cameras field of view over a given time interval when compared to the media that would be consumed if the entire image was being recorded.

Picture compression is used in individual pictures. Basically, a picture with a large white background will require a lower file size for recording than an image with complex shapes and colours. The JPEG and M-JPEG formats utilise a number of standards and it does get quite complex when bit rates, frame rates and other factors are thrown into the mix. In IP cameras the following systems dominate:

• JPEG is a single-picture-at-a-time system without frame-to-frame compression, and is used mainly in low-end cameras. With JPEG, the picture can be compressed, but this compresses the actual image, lowering the image quality. Omegas TeviCom KR-5700 series DVRs utilise an advanced version of JPEG technology JPEG2000 which allows for greater compression and better video reproduction in comparison to the MPEG-4 algorithm.
• M-JPEG is basically Motion-JPEG. Each individual picture is compressed as an individual JPEG and the frame rates are scalable. The picture is in real time, without the latency which occurs in MPEG-4.
• MPEG-4 is a true video compression where only the changed information is sent frame by frame. High compression rates can be achieved and in addition, frame rates are scalable. Although MPEG-4 has latency, bit rates are much lower due to compression, so bandwidth requirements are lower.

Sensor types.

• CCD sensors are used in high-end cameras and have good low light capability. They are more complex and expensive than CMOS sensors, yet they may have a problem with bright objects in the frame.
• CMOS sensors are lower quality and cost considerably less than CCD sensors. The main disadvantage is that they may not perform well in low light, but if low light is not a problem they can be acceptable performers.
• Mega-pixel sensors are now becoming available in some IP cameras and can deliver super high quality images. They will also change the PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) concept by doing it all digitally.

Wi-fi networks.

Wi-fi or wireless networks are pretty common these days, used by everything from the internet to C-Bus. They are also used to operate wireless IP cameras. If you want to go wireless you will be spoilt for camera choice as a wide selection of models are available in wireless versions. Some may come with a slot where you plug in a wireless card, while others can become wireless if a point for an external wireless device is added. For more information on wireless IP cameras (or IP cameras in general) ask your Gemcell electrical wholesaler.

Surveillance cameras in public places?

If you intend to install cameras that survey public spaces, even (for example) the street outside your house, the installation may be subject to regulations governing the use of cameras and the images from cameras surveying public spaces. Regulations may vary from place to place, city to city and state to state, and individual Councils and/or Government regulatory authorities may have their own codes for surveillance camera installations.

The only way to be sure that you do not violate any codes or laws is to make the relevant inquiries before you install the camera. Depending upon where the cameras are being installed and what they are surveying, the installation may also need to comply with Australian Standards. Once again, you will need to do your homework to be sure one way or the other.

Want a piece of the action? First secure the right qualifications.

If you are going to work in design, installation, maintenance, service and/or repair of surveillance systems youll need a Master Security Licence - Class 2C. You will also need an ACA Open Registration [communications and data] cabling qualification. Neither certificate is hard to get, and information is available from NECA, Milcom and other professional and training authorities.

If you would like to know more about IP cameras (and why wouldnt you, this is really amazing technology) you may find an introductory course beneficial. One such course Getting IP Ready is available at Milcom (www.milcom.com.au) and runs over 4 days.