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2) Area of coverage: A PTZ or dome camera is able to cover a wider area than a fixed network
camera. The bigger the area, the more cameras are needed.
3) Application:
i. Determine the kind of surveillance you want to conduct (overt/covert—this will help you in
selecting cameras that offer a non-discreet or discreet installation).
ii. Determine also the kind of image you want to capture: overview or close-up for identifica-
tion purposes. The purpose will determine the placement of the camera, the type of camera
and camera features required (e.g. megapixel for exceptional details, audio, security
features) and lens adjustment/type (normal, telephoto or wide angle).
A security operator using a PTZ or dome camera can cover a large area and capture different
images for different purposes. In many cases, different cameras will be needed to capture
images for different purposes (i.e. one camera providing a full overview image for capturing
an incident in action, and another camera for close-up views of a person/object for identifi-
cation purposes).
iii. Viewing and recording needs: Consider when and how often you need to view and record:
day, night and/or weekends; frame rate capabilities; resolution; type of video compression
support (H.264/MPEG-4 Part 2/Motion JPEG) and different alarm management functions
and intelligent video features such as video motion detection, active tampering alarm
and audio detection, which are also features that provide savings in bandwidth and storage
space.
iv. Connection considerations: e.g. Power over Ethernet support, wireless.
Focus on image quality, open API, free upgrades, global product support
Axis’ network video products are focused on providing high image quality. The products also have an
open API (application programming interface) that enables many software vendors to write programs
for. This benefit increases your choices in software applications. Axis also continually supports its net-
work video products with free upgrades for new functionalities that are introduced. Global product
support is also available.
In addition to network cameras, Axis offers video encoders and decoders, network video recorders and
video management software. A wide range of accessories are also available: protective housings, IR il-
luminators, Power over Ethernet midspans and active splitter, connectors and cables, lenses and lens
accessories, power accessories, as well as third-party accessories.
Before you set out to order or buy many network cameras, it is a good idea to field test a few cameras
before making a decision. Try out an Axis network camera with a free AXIS Camera Station One video
management software, which is packaged with every network camera purchase and is also downloadable
on Axis’ web site at www.axis.com. AXIS Camera Station One provides simultaneous viewing and recording
of high quality H.264, MPEG-4 Part 2 and Motion JPEG video from a single surveillance camera.
