IP Camera Distributor

You will need some degree of knowledge to enable you to opt for one of the many distributors advertising online and in trade journals. You will not want to choose without knowing something about what you are purchasing, and also what is possible with today’s hardware and software design. Many people regard an IP surveillance system as consisting of a camera and a screen, but there is a lot more to it than that.

IP cameras are useful for both domestic and business security, largely due their relatively low price compared to standard CCTV systems. Wireless IP is especially useful, and the cameras can be sited in remote locations and also those that are hard to access. Because there are no cables to cut with wireless, and the battery operated models can be sited just about anywhere, intruders find them very difficult to disable.

The beauty of the IP camera is that the signal can be viewed from any computer anywhere in the world at any time, and remote control can also be activated from anywhere. They can be set to operate on motion detection, or on any other criterion such as on a door opening. They can also be fitted with night capability, and because they operate through the internet protocol packetized system, you can check up on your home or your premises using a laptop from any location with an internet signal – fixed or wireless.

There are, however, many different options open to you in an IP camera system. As already suggested you have the option of cable or wireless, of battery or mains power, and also the various control options: pan – tilt – zoom options, lens options (some cannot be effectively used outdoors), weatherproofing, mounting options, sound options and don’t forget the software. Your IP camera distributor should be able to keep you right on all of these. The software is often overlooked, but is a very important component of your IP surveillance system.

The software should ensure that your storage disk does not fill up, or if it does than that the oldest recordings are overwritten first. It can also be used to control the camera itself, and zoom in or pan out as needed. The software is just as important as the hardware needed, so make sure that your distributor discusses the software options with you, just as they will the camera and mountings.

If you are not sure where to find an IP camera distributor, there are plenty online, although you could also use one of the online directories such as TradeKey, eSources and Global Sources. Any of these will have a list of surveillance camera distributors that you can check through. Many are Chinese and Taiwanese, though quite a few of the Taiwanese distributors are German owned. You will find it very difficult to find any European made cameras nowadays. Although the name might be European most IP equipment is made in the Far East these days.

Once you spot a likely distributor, check out their range of products and determine if they include what you need. Then contact them and ask if they have any local outlets or engineers close to you who can visit your home or premises and discuss your needs. You can then discuss your requirements in detail. Although you will have an idea of what you want, the distributor of the IP cameras will be able to make suggestions that marry your needs with the best IP solution available in their range. They might be able to make suggestions that you had not thought of.

Your choice of IP camera distributor should be based upon geographical location, product range and the service they can provide, particularly the pre-sales service in discussing your needs and recommending a suitable system. If their pre-sales service is poor, then don’t expect much of the after-sales service either. There are many IP camera distributors advertising online, and also listed in any of the many available trade directories such as those already mentioned.