All IP implementations
In the last few years, we have seen the introduction of intelligent IP cameras that provide enhanced capabilities such as video analytics, multi-stream video and megapixel resolutions. Moving some of the intelligence to the edge has allowed VMS solutions running on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) servers to scale, replacing analog cameras and proprietary DVRs in the process. Figure 3 shows an all IP video implementation.

Figure 3: An all IP video implementation.

IP cameras provide several benefits to organizations including:

• Distributed computing, by pushing intelligence to the edge for encoding, compression, video analytics, email notification, motion detection and field upgrades
• Lower cabling costs through the use of structured cabling systems (UTP vs. coax)
• Simplified power distribution by leveraging Power over Ethernet (POE)
• A converged IT management infrastructure
• Use of COTS servers
• Transmission of pan, tilt, zoom (PTZ) commands and alarms over the same cable
• Multi-stream capability, e.g. MJPEG and H.264, to different users or applications
• Higher resolution including High Definition (HD) and megapixel capabilities
• Reduced camera requirement because of high-resolution cameras

The main disadvantage for IP cameras stems from a lack of standards and the different implementations necessary from vendor to vendor for video streaming, configuration and status notification, as well as the networking skills required to implement these devices.

Next: Leveraging IP protocols