_Frequently_ Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs are designed to provide a better understanding of several aspects touching to our service offer and related products, as well as legal and technical issues. They provide basic information, sometimes on quite complex topics, with links to more detailed information.

Video surveillance & remote monitoring

Video surveillance is a technical tool to ensure the security of goods and persons. A video surveillance system is not only composed of cameras but also of an entire tool chain that ensure the transit of images, their storage and their exploitation.

Video surveillance resumes today the best of electronics and computers technology (IP network, digital storage, high-definition (HD) sensors,… etc).

There are two main types of video surveillance :
IP.
CCTV.
An IP-based video surveillance system is a system that allows its users to view and record videos over an IP network, ie a network that uses the tools and protocols of the Internet.

The camera is connected to a computer network and behaves like a network node (a computer for example). It is accessible through a unique IP address and has an integrated web server that returns the video stream from the sensor. The images sent by the camera (the stream) may be directly transmitted to be stored on a computer (server) with a specific software or saved to a “recorder” called NVR.

The resolution varies depending on the camera model, but is expressed in pixels, representing the number of colored points on an image.

Unlike a CCTV system, the number of licensed components is unlimited. The use of an IP network allows interoperability and integration with other systems, including access control and intrusion detection systems, as well as the ability to perform remote monitoring for additional sites.

This system has existed for several years and does not lack any type of support or resources. CCTV systems operate via coaxial cables for direct transmission of video streams.

The resolution of analog cameras is expressed in TV lines (TVL), which is the amount of lines on a pattern that the camera is capable of distinguishing. Once images are recorded digitally, the effective resolution is 768 x 576 pixels (PAL).

The number of components that this system can support is limited by the number of available inputs and outputs.

The choice between CCTV or IP systems is often dictated by the constraints of your installation.

Decide which videosurveillance system to install is not the easiest thing to do since there are advantages and shortcomings to each type.

Eyepix Solutions will help you make the right choice by showing you the differences between the two systems so that you can select the installation that suits your needs.

Easier remote access : If you want to access your cameras remotely from anywhere in the world through the Internet, you can connect directly to each IP camera, bypassing the storage system. Access is thus much more easier and faster.
Better quality images.
Compressed video streams and recordings.
IP Wires : 3x less expensive than CCTV wires.
Recording : all cameras in your network, even geographically separated, will only require a single recorder.
Security : Integrated video encryption and remote access controlled by passwords.

Price : Because of the advanced technologies built into every IP camera, the cost is generally higher than for analog CCTV cameras.
Bandwidth : Each camera accessed through a network requires a higher bandwidth compared to a single analogue CCTV system.

    Reduced costs: CCTV cameras are typically less expensive than IP cameras.
    High flexibility and choice : The range of CCTV camera models is much more larger than that of IP variants. You’re more likely to find the camera that best suits you.
    High compatibility: Most CCTV models are compatible.
    Difficult application for long distances: For remote monitoring over long distances, you cannot choose a fully CCTV-based system which supports distances greater than 500M without going through signal conversion systems.
    Recording: Each monitored area needs its own DVR.
    Limited capabilities: Some cameras do not offer zoom or audio capabilities.
    You can connect your old analog cameras as new IP cameras to a modern video surveillance system based on PCs. This can reduce your costs and you will not need to get rid of your old equipment. Such a “hybrid system” is absolutely sustainable.
    Hybrid systems support CCTV and IP cameras on the same video surveillance installation.

    The CCTV and IP cameras are connected to a digital recorder. This recorder is unique as it can receive and process analog and digital signals simultaneously. This allows to maintain the network of analog cameras already installed while including additional IP cameras.

    Simplified maintenance and upgrade of the existing analog network.
    Reduced cost.
    Modernization of your video surveillance system.
    Improvement of the architecture of your video surveillance system.
    This provides a link between your video surveillance system and other systems such as access control, fire detectors, intercoms controllers or even alarms.
    You can also benefit from smart image analysis capabilities such as : Motion detection, facial recognition, … etc
    You can save images from analog and IP cameras on a digital recorder. Video images can be simultaneously viewed live, read, recorded and sent over the network. The maximum possible recording time depends on the image quality, the number of installed cameras and the size of the hard disk.
    Video compression produces video streams with reduced size leading hence to an optimzed bandwidth and accelerated data transfer rates – compared to the uncompressed video format – which contributes to the minimization of memory space required for recording.

    There are different compression modes; MPEG and MJEPG being most commonly used. Other types of compression include for example.
    MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.263, H.264/AVC, …etc.

    The main types of materials that make up a video surveillance installation are :

    Video surveillance cameras
    Surveillance cameras are the elements that allow to film the areas to be monitored.
    There are two main surveillance camera technologies: analog(CCTV) and IP cameras.

    These cameras exist in different types with varying options and characteristics: day/night camera, mini dome camera, motorized camera, Fixed camera … etc

    Video surveillance recorders
    The recorders allow to save the video streams acquired from the cameras. The recorder will offer the possibility of playback for the recorded video streams. It is also possible to include one or more hard drives of different capacities (500GB, 1TB or 2TB) into your recorder. Besides, several parameters are programmable on the recorder including: motion detection, video streaming for remote access … etc

    There are two main categories of recorders: Digital video recorders (DVR) and IP recorders.
    The DVR can accommodate a number of camera defined by the number of available channels.

    Video surveillance screen
    A video surveillance screen allows you to view live video streams from the cameras or to playback the saved records on the hard disk of the recorder. The video surveillance screen is a requirement for setting up your video surveillance installation. Most installations are equipped with a 19 or 22 inch LCD monitor with a VGA input.
    The screen quality is still important to view the images filmed by the cameras.

    Video surveillance wires
    Analog video surveillance facilities are equipped with a wired connection between each camera and its corresponding recorder. KX6 is the most used CCTV cable type for analog video surveillance systems.
    IP-based video surveillance installations are equipped with an RJ45 cable which connects the cameras to the network switch.

    Power supply of video surveillance cameras
    Surveillance cameras need to be powered by an electrical power supply compatible with their needs.

    Video Surveillance Software
    Video surveillance software is used to access cameras remotely over the internet. Usually, a video surveillance software is equipped with multiple features depending on the architectural complexity of your system or the available features in the installed cameras.

    Remote access via Internet
    The evolution of technology today allows you to access your video surveillance cameras remotely given that your installation is connected to the Internet.

    The image resolution

    The resolution of the image of an analog camera is measured in TVL which is defined as the maximum number of alternating light and dark vertical lines that can be resolved per picture height. The greater the number of lines is, the better the image quality.
    Standard resolution: 420 color lines
    Good resolution : 540 color lines
    High resolution : 600 color lines
    Very high resolution : 700 color lines

    The image resolution of an IP camera is usually expressed by the screen resolution.
    Standard VGA resolution : 640 x 480px
    High resolution S-VGA : 800 x 600px
    High Definition HD 720P : 1280 x 720px (1.3 megapixels)
    High Definition HD 1080P (Full HD) : 1600 x 1200px (2 megapixels)

    Brightness (Lux)

    This attribute determines the minimum amount of light required by your camera to operate properly. The brightness is measured in lux, so it is essential to judge the brightness of the area you’re willing to monitor when choosing your cameras if you want to ensure an optimal image quality.

    The CCD sensor

    CCD is the electrical component that captures the light signal and translates it into an image. Thus, the combination of the CCD sensor and chipset lets you get video streams. The CCD sensors and chipsets which Eyepix Solutions offers are high quality products manufactured by SONY, Panasonic and many other brands.

    Lens

    Lens determine the viewing angle of your cameras. They are available in several sizes to best adapt to the vision you want. They have a size of 2.5mm to 100mm which corresponds to an opening angle of 107° to 2.8°. The larger the lens size is, the greater the viewing angle is narrow and more remote areas will be closely filmed and the zoom will be much better. The choice of lens is essential since they can be regarded as the eyes of the camera.

    The installation of a video surveillance system is strictly regulated by Algerian law. Obtaining an operating permit from local authorities is required for the installation of such a system. The authorization also protects the owner so he can use his recordings legally, making them admissible as evidence in case of litigation. Eyepix Solutions brings you all the legal and administrative information needed to install your video surveillance system.

    Several laws govern the use of video surveillance systems:

    Executive Decree No. 09-410 of 23 Dhu Al Hijjah 1430 corresponding to December 10th, 2009 laying down security measures for activities related to sensitive equipment.

    Interministerial Order of 15 Dhu Al Kaada 1432 corresponding to October 13th, 2011 fixing the conditions and procedures for the acquisition, possession, utilization, use and disposal of sensitive equipment.

    Intruder alarm systems

      The intruder alarm systems are designed to alert the presence of intruders in secure location. This type of alarm will protect you from theft when you are not present at work or at home.
      The intruder alarm is suitable for:
      Houses or apartments.
      Businesses.

      La centrale :
      The control panel is the heart of the alarm system. You will find it also in any type of alarm, be it intruder alarm, fire or gas.
      The control panel manages the entire alarm system. It receives and analyzes the information emitted by the detectors and it will trigger the internal and external siren if necessary.

      Detectors:
      Parametric detectors
      – The opening detectors: Attached to doors or windows. These sensors detect intrusion attempts whenever a door or window is opened and transmit the information to the center which in turn launches the alert.
      – The shock detectors: Shock detectors are extremely sensitive to small vibrations. They can also be mounted on walls and roofs.
      – The curtain detectors: designed for indoor protection for windows and large glass doors in residential and commercial environments.
      – Seismic detectors : Seismic detectors are designed to monitor safety deposit boxes, night deposits and ATMs.

      Motion detectors
      – Passive infrared detectors: A passive infrared detector is an electronic device that measures the infrared light emitted by objects in its field of view. Movement or presence of humans are detected when an infrared source at a particular temperature is within the sensors’ field.
      – Microwave detectors: The microwave technology is considered very old because it was considered “too sensitive”. The microwave RF detection device will capture all movements regardless of the temperature difference.
      – Dual technology detectors: The dual technology sensors combine a passive infrared sensor with a Doppler microwave sensor.

      Warning devices
      – The internal siren.
      – The external siren.
      – FLASH.

      The transmitter
      It is the transmitter, connected to a telephone line or a GSM module, which will signal the intrusion to the monitoring service and the owners of the buildings via preprogrammed numbers.
      A wireless alarm system is an alarm whose components are connected through radio waves or wifi.
      A wired alarm system is an alarm which all components (siren unit, detectors, transmitter …) are connected through a cable network.
      The choice between a wired and wireless alarm alarm depends on the area of your home or your business.
      The wired alarm systems are mainly intended for workplace environments, such as commercial buildings, factory warehouses and offices.
      Wired alarm systems are interesting for individuals when the house is being built, the installation should be easily installed given that a reference distance is respected due to the propagation characteristics of high frequency waves.
      The wireless alarm systems are designed for private homes and small apartments. You can also find this system in small and medium-sized business structures.
      Wired alarm system is preferred if the premises to be protected does not exceed an area of 100 m2 on one level.

      Economical : Economic components.
      Reliable : High reliability.
      Electric power supply: No battery replacement. This need is eliminated through continuous power supply.

      Cabling is necessary. All detectors shall be connected to the control panel through wires.
      The wired alarms are difficult to move.
      The installation of a new sensor requires new wiring.

      Enables operation in inaccessible places.
      All additional components are integrated quickly.
      The motion detectors can be easily moved if you change the arrangement of furniture in a room.

      Telephone switchboard

      The telephone switchboard is a device ensuring the professional processing of calls within a company. The range of telephone exchanges is very wide, fitting hence the needs of various sized companies.
      PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) is a private telephone exchange system used in companies. The users of the PABX system share a number of outgoing trunk lines for making external phone calls.
      Voice over IP (or VoIP shortly) is a telephony mode based on IP communication protocols (Internet Protocol).
      Voice is digitized and then sent as packets like any other data transmitted over the corporate IP network.
      An IP-PBX allows Internet telephony (VoIP), instead of a traditional PBX using traditional PSTN (public switched telephone network).
      Internal calls between all terminals connected to the telephone network are free of charge.

      IP telephony requires little bandwidth. So companies can make a private network serving many connected remote sites simultaneously. Telephone communications between them are then completely Free .

      IP telephony is extremely advantageous and perfectly suited for organizations with multiple separated geographical locations.

      Scalability, Flexibility and productivity
      In a VoIP architecture, it is very easy to add additional sites or enlarge an existing network, which is not the case with non-IP systems.


      Attendance systems

      An attendance system is an electronic device that has the essential function of recording the attendance of your personnel. This is an electronic device that allows you to point the presence of an individual in several modes. A system which is ideal for large companies.
      Code.
      Badge.
      Fingerprints.
      Face recognition.
      Biometric attendance systems use different physiological data according to the mode supported. This system works through the identification of digitized human details which it stores in its computer memory. The information gathered may reflect different physiologic information including:
      Fingerprints.
      Facial expressions.
      etc.
      The system records the basic information about your staff (arrival, departure …). The biometric data is transmitted to a central computer (network, Internet or USB) and analyzed using an attendance management software.
      The elimination of fraud : human characteristics are unique and can not be transferred. It is therefore not possible for some one to impersonate someone’s else identity. The use of human characteristics ensures a 100% identification of the person.

      Ease of use : with this system, losing magnetic cards, badges or key containing sensitive identification data is no longer a problem.

      Economic : no magnetic cards or badges.
      Depending on the number of staff and activity of the company. Attendance systems must be adapted to the particularities of each company.

        Fire Alarm Systems

          A fire detection system or a fire alarm is a unit within the fire safety system (FSS). A fire alarm is an electronic system which aims to detect the birth of a fire in a specific place. The fire alarm is designed to alert you when a fire spreads through the detectors installed on the ceilings of the monitored area.
          The fire detectors.
          Control and Signaling Equipment.
          Manual Triggers.

          The main physical or chemical phenomena detected by the sensors are related to the occurrence of:
          Flames.
          Fumes.
          Heat.
          Combustion gases.
          Smoke detector is a security element which reacts to the presence of smoke or vapor particles in the air.

          Carbon monoxide detector is an apparatus which analyzes the air to detect whether an abnormal level of carbon monoxide is present or not.

          The thermostatic heat sensor : This is usually triggered when a room reaches a temperature between 50 and 65° C.

          The thermovelocimetric heat detector : It detects the temperature elevation rate . The velocimetric heat detectors are in turn sensitive to the rate of temperature rise, usually giving information earlier that the thermostatic variants. However, they give much more false alarms if they are positioned in the wrong place (e.g rapid temperature rise due to the opening of an oven in an industrial kitchen).

          Flame detectors :detection of wavelengths located in the infrared or the ultraviolet spectrum.
          This type of system works on the principle of measuring the electrical current generated by each sensor connected to one of the input lines of the control panel. Conventional power plants can signal the warning area without specifying the exact location of the element which detected the start of the fire. There exists for this system type visual signals that can be installed on the entrance of building to facilitate the location of the fire area. Detection of conventional fire is still used today and is considered ideal especially for buildings of small capacity.
          This intelligent system uses a serial communication protocol between the sensors and the control panel. Each sensor is connected to a loop system also called the network and is identified by the control panel unit through a unique address which makes the detection of the fire location faster. This powerful system is widely used in large buildings.

          More questions?

          You can always contact us for other questions that touch to our service offer.

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