Choosing the video monitoring system (VMS) for your project may not be an easy task. Today, this sector has undergone many changes due to market integration trends. Therefore, we decided to bring some tips on integrating alarm systems with video monitoring.
The transformation of video monitoring environments into multi-use monitoring requires the inclusion of various hardware beyond cameras, such as IoT.
Thanks to this technology, we can now perform various activities remotely with more effectiveness and security than before, when they were done in person.
But what exactly is IoT?
Internet of Things, or IoT, refers to the interconnection between everyday devices and the internet. In other words, it is the ability to connect any type of device so that they can communicate with each other remotely via the cloud.
Want to see a practical example? Let's go!
You own a clothing factory and have taken all precautions against future unwanted events, such as break-ins. You built a wall, installed security cameras, motion sensors around the perimeter, sirens, video intercoms at access points, automated access control doors, and various other equipment.
But now, during the pandemic, the factory is operating at reduced capacity, and hiring a security team has become unfeasible not only due to budget constraints but also because it is increasingly difficult to find trustworthy professionals these days.
I'm sure you're thinking: how will I stay safe without a local security team? How will I monitor my business?
Don't worry! We have the solution!
You can simply grant access to your resources to a central monitoring station that oversees multiple locations simultaneously, and for any triggered event, they take predefined actions, such as confirming the event through the cameras, activating an alert audio for your siren, or triggering the anti-theft system to persuade the intruder to leave the premises. When contacting the police, the recorded images can be shared to assist in the investigation.
Fortunately, all of this IS POSSIBLE!
But first, let's check some precautions that deserve special attention.
Attention to electrical and data network: considering a good power source is essential, especially for those moments when there is a power outage and your system needs to remain active.
Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) with well-dimensioned warning sensors and dedicated exclusively to the security system are also important, along with one (or more) internet links, using firewall routers to provide the solution you need so that you don't have to worry about possible supply failures in the future.
Standard protocols: on one hand, using standard communication protocols facilitates integrations, but on the other hand, they are the primary target for cyberattacks and are usually the most vulnerable. In other words, if you are sharing images captured by your cameras with port forwarding in DDNS format, direct access to video streaming via RTSP or Onvif, your security may be at risk in all aspects, whether physical, digital, or in the cloud.
It is important to work with equipment and software that are certified and use encrypted protocols at all levels of communication, such as HTTPS, SRTP, SRTCP, and in the case of hardware that utilizes security chips like TPM or PLUTON.
Therefore, both the choice of software and IoT hardware for managing these devices must be made carefully to ensure the success of your project.
The Milestone XProtect (the main software line from Milestone) is a reference in this market and is moving towards the unification of systems, including IoT devices such as cameras, alarm systems, access control systems, measurement sensors, remote switching modules (I/O), and many others. Always with a special focus on cybersecurity, being the only one so far to have official GDPR certification.
About Milestone
Since its founding in 1998, Milestone has aimed to make its IP video platform open and independent, helping people protect themselves and allowing its clients to optimize their business processes.
The world's number one developer of video monitoring and video analysis software and solutions is already present in over 200 countries, being the favorite of organizations of all shapes and sizes.
Equipment for receiving alarm signals from sensors
Now that you know about Milestone software, it's time to check out some equipment that offers excellent performance for this type of project.
Bosch B9512G - Control Panel
The B9512G model is Bosch's new top-of-the-line commercial control panel. It features a simple user interface for all systems and allows for the integration of intrusion, fire, and access control.
Like Milestone, it can also adapt to various installations, whether large or small, providing up to 599 individually identifiable points that can be divided into 32 areas.
It is an updated version of older control panels from Bosch and includes essential features to make the user's daily life as practical as possible, such as reporting capabilities.
With it, you can measure important data, such as the number of individual points, remote programming attempts, diagnostic reports, and opening and closing reports by user and area number.
Another important benefit it provides is the event history. It stores up to 10,192 local and reported events, including time, date, event, area, point, and user.
It also features a personal notification capability, sending text messages or email notifications via Ethernet or using a cellular communicator in the event of a new occurrence.
In addition to all the benefits we've mentioned, Bosch's intrusion alarm can be perfectly combined with Milestone XProtect, encompassing integrated alarm management, video verification, map viewing, door handling, and event viewing from a user interface.
AXIS A9161 Network I/O Relay Module
The Axis A9161 is an I/O relay module from Axis Communications. It features one C relay and six I/O ports with supervised inputs and configurable levels. The module reacts to inputs, such as signals from PIR motion detectors or switches, to trigger actions.
Looking for that versatile piece of equipment for your project? You just found it! It can be integrated with any type of sensor and operated remotely.
Now let's check out some examples of how to use this unique and versatile equipment from Axis Communications.
The Axis A9161 can be used in conjunction with the Axis network intercom and Milestone XProtect, enabling video call reception in the Milestone monitoring system. This makes the operator's daily tasks easier, as they can talk to and see the person on-site and remotely authorize door access.
Another usage option is the combination with Axis A1001 controllers, where, in addition to remote opening and communication, authorized individuals can use their credentials to access specific locations.
Another important factor to mention is that not only the operators remain safe, but the entire system does as well, since Axis and Milestone use secure and encrypted communication protocols.
Still unsure about which hardware and software are best for your project? Then come get a quote from our specialized team! We will recommend the best equipment according to your project.
