Category: Camera

Youve read exactly about them, youve searched the internet, evaluated prices and now have reached in conclusion that for the sum youre spending, camera stabilizers seem to be a good enough idea. So, you eagerly await your purchase and when delivery comes, you excitedly tear at the box. And then, for the life of you, you cant get the dratted thing to balance!

This seems to be the most famous subject in help sections around videography discussion boards on multilple web sites. How does one acquire camera stabilizers to operate properly or maybe at all-they have to start at setting it up balanced first, right? Before getting irritated as well as throw it all frustrated golf player having a golf club; or more painful, before experimenting with the digital camera stabilizers weights and finding the tool going topsy-turvy and with your camera quite possibly ending up on the concrete sidewalk, control be simple guiding principle behind the video camera stabilizer in order to understand it quickly.

No reason to break open your highschool physics books but it does relate to that particular branch of science. Imagine a seesaw in the playground; its a wooden plank having a post that acts as a pivot point (or fulcrum) within the center. If you place 2 equal weight loads to the reverse ends, and because the fulcrum is equidistant from both sides, the plank will certainly balance at a level position. If we make either side of the balanced plank more heavy, that part will drop lower and the other will definitely move higher. The seesaw plank is now unbalanced. If holding the same weight on both sides of the plank isn’t a choice, then you will not obtain balance unless you adjust the fulcrum point (your seesaws post, remember?); by nudging it closer to the heavier part of the plank, you could attain a point exactly where it can once more level out to a balanced position.

You can employ this same theory to help you when balancing your video camera stabilizer; however, you have to identify the location where the fulcrum point is on the digital camera you’ll be employing on the stabilizer. Identifying where center of balance is on your camera or camcorder is important and you’ve to accomplish it with batteries, tape, disc, or card, and other things youll use during a shoot, all in.

Smartec product line of the network cameras has been supplemented with the new STC-IPM3095A Day/Night IP-camera, designed for video surveillance of the applications with higher requirements for image quality. Due to Sony ExViewHAD CCD, this megapixel IP-camera can transmit video in MPEG/M-JPEG with up to 1280×960 pix. resolution at up to 25 fps. In addition, STC-IPM3095A features Day/Night software function and PoE technology. New IP-camera is equipped with audio I/O, motion detector and SD-card slot with 2 GB SD-card (supplied).

New megapixel IP-camera transmits video in SXVGA (1280×960 pix.) resolution at up to 15 fps, whereas in VGA (640×480 pix.) or QVGA (320×240 pix.) video frame rate will increase up to 25 fps. In this case, megapixel video from the network camera can be used for archive storage, while video with lower resolution is appropriate for transmitting to the remote users or recording on external media.

Unlike many analogues STC-IPM3095A is equipped with Sony ExViewHAD megapixel CCD that allows IP-camera to transmit video with improved color rendering and S/N ratio. Due to 1.3 Mpix resolution, this megapixel IP-camera can be installed at the applications with higher requirements for image quality. In addition, digital zoom function helps the operator to monitor every part of the application.

Easy Day/Night function allows the operator to set up STC-IPM3095A operation mode under different light conditions. When selecting B/W or Color mode IP-camera will transmit B/W or color images respectively in all light conditions under 0.4 lux of minimum illumination. In addition, the operator can set the sensitivity level at which megapixel IP-camera will switch automatically between B/W and color modes.

To prevent accidental switching between Day and Night modes this megapixel IP-camera enables the operator to select the switching delay time. This option is especially useful to avoid camera switching in Color mode when IP-camera is briefly illuminated by the car lights.

Another advantage of this megapixel IP-camera is its ability to transmit simultaneously two video streams over the network, which helps the operator to optimize image quality for the IP-channel bandwidth. For example, in M-JPEG megapixel IP-camera allows the operator to select the resolution and adjust video compression level. In MPEG-4 the operator can set QVGA or VGA resolution as well as the rate of video broadcast. Due to multicast video transmission support, MPEG-4 can be utilized for remote monitoring (unlimited number of users).

STC-IPM3095A can automatically adjust image brightness by using electronic shutter and lens aperture. To improve image quality in all light conditions below 0.4 lux, it is recommended to use Slow Shutter Mode that allows megapixel IP-camera automatically select slow shutter. Due to the backlight compensation, STC-IPM3095A will transmit clear image even in bright light.

Built-in SD-card slot and supplied 2 GB SD-card provides megapixel video recording without using additional network devices. In this case, the operator can record alarm video as well as pre- and post alarm video streams. In addition, megapixel IP-camera enables adjusting of SD-card cyclic rewriting as well as backup of the information, transmitted to the FTP-server (in case of server malfunction).

STC-IPM3095A is equipped with a web server that allows the operator to view video on any PC through a standard web browser. For deployment of a multi-channel video system it is recommended to purchase NetStation software for processing of up to 64 channels. This software enables remote video monitoring, recording, search and video playback as well as PTZ cameras operation control.

New product offers two ways of power supply: directly from 12/24V AC/DC sources or using Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. Due to PoE support, megapixel IP-camera can be powered by the same twisted pair that transmits video streams and receives control signals. It can reduce installation time of IP-camera and minimize the cost of electrical cable as well. Due to the audio I/O, STC-IPM3095A provides two-way audio communication between the operator and the application.

New Smartec STC-IPM3095A megapixel IP-cameras are offered from stock by Smartec dealers. For more information about ST!-IPM3095A and other Smartec IP-equipment, please, send your request to or contact your Smartec dealers directly.

When people purchase bullet style security cameras they will sometimes run into an issue with them fogging up or having moisture inside the glass enclosure. This can be quite the nuisance as it makes it quite hard to get a quality video. I will address the steps necessary to try and solve this problem.

Disclaimer

Before we start please be aware that the steps involved in this may possibly void your warranty, and it would be a good idea to talk with your surveillance equipment provider before beginning.

Step One

Remove the hood / sunshield if necessary.

Some bullet style security cameras, especially the outdoor cameras will have a hood or sunshield on top of them to help deal with the elements. You will first need to remove this shield. Generally these hoods will slide off, but it may require a bit of force as they are secured on rather tightly; also be sure that they are not screwed into the mount, and if they are remove the screw.

Step Two

Unscrew the glass covering.

At the end of your bullet camera you will have a cap that can be screwed on and off. This cap contains your glass covering that is fogging up and it will need to be removed from your security camera. Be aware that an O-ring may be present to help with the sealing of the cap. Do NOT lose this O-ring.

Step Three

Use a soft towel and some Rain-Ex.

Now that you have your end cap screwed off, you will need a soft towel that is not going to scratch the glass and a bit of Rain-Ex.

Take and apply the Rain-Ex to the glass cover as instructed from the bottle and make sure to dry it off thoroughly when done. Do NOT get any Rain-Ex in the surveillance camera itself.

This should be done in a cooler environment with relatively low humidity to have the best effect.

Step Four

Re-assemble your surveillance camera.

Put your glass covering cap back on the bullet camera along with the O-ring if applicable; then reattach your hood and this should help solve your fogging issue.

Quick Overview For Defogging Your Bullet Camera

1.Unhook the sunshield / hood

2.Remove the glass covering cap end

3.Use a soft towel and apply Rain-Ex to the glass covering

4.Reassemble your surveillance camera

These steps will help prevent and fix any issues your bullet camera may have with fog on the glass covering. If the problem persists after doing this; you should consult a surveillance professional for further options.

Christian M Gillman has worked in the surveillance industry for over 6 years. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter, learn more about surveillance, and find great products at http://www.cu1.com

– CU1 – Your CCTV Products and Surveillance Equipment Source

First of all, lets take a look at IP camera definition. IP camera (Internet Protocol Camera) is utilized in local and distributed surveillance systems and can transmit/receive megapixel video information via the Internet and local computer network. This enables the operator to view, manage and control this megapixel IP-device using a standard web browser or professional video management software (like VMS) from different monitoring posts.
An IP-camera (also called network camera) has the following components:
1. Lens.
2. Image sensor, which allows camera to generate high-quality megapixel images with high resolution.
3. Processor, providing video processing, compression, video analysis etc.
4. Memory for storing special firmware.
Megapixel IP-camera can be configured to transmit simultaneously several video streams, to send video for viewing in different modes and to set up camera responding upon receiving alarm signals or motion detection.

Advantages of megapixel IP-camera

Higher Video Resolution and Image Detail
To understand the difference between standard analog camera and megapixel IP-camera lets compare the effective pixels each camera can transmit:
A standard resolution analog camera with 380TVL transmits images with 480×380 pix. resolution, or 182,400 pix. that is roughly 1/5 of a megapixel!
A high resolution analog camera with 520TVL can generate images with 480×520 pix. resolution that is equal to 249,600 pix. of around 1/3 of a megapixel.
For example, a 2 megapixel camera produces 1600×1200 pix. images that is equal to 1.920,000 pix.
Progressive Scan – No Interlace Distortion of Moving Objects
Most of presented video recorders) often face some difficulties when recording fast moving objects resulting in comb effect of recording footage. Modern network cameras feature Progressive Scan technology that allows the camera to produce crisp images.
Easy Installation and Reduced Costs
If your premises have existing computer networks, so you can easily install IP-camera as a part of this network without any difficulties. Due to PoE support, megapixel IP-camera can be powered by the same cable that transmits video streams. In many cases, it reduces installation time of IP-camera, as well as eliminates the cost of a separate power supply wires. Due to the audio I/O, megapixel camera can provide two-way audio communication between the operator and the application.

Summary

As you can see, IP-camera usage has a number of advantages with excellent picture quality, easy installation and set of viewing modes among them. However, modern network camera also has some disadvantages that include greater complexity and bandwidth demands.

Eugene Azarell
NKK Smarteco LTD (http://smartec-security.eu)

For general issues, questions or information about Smartec CCTV equipment, please, send your request to or contact your Smartec dealers directly.

Under Smartec brand name, a wide range of equipment is supplied, allowing to build traditional and digital video surveillance systems of any configuration and complexity. The product line includes standard analog cameras (B/W, color and day-night), IP-cameras, varifocal lenses, speed dome cameras, 15-32 LCD-monitors, 4-32-ch DVRs, IP-video servers, camera housings, brackets and other video surveillance devices.

Camera bags have come a long way, just as the digital technology of
photography has grown by leaps and bounds. In order to keep up with the digital
photography world, camera bag manufacturers have had to make modifications.
Multi-modular camera bags, like those made by M-Rock have the most features for
the money, and incredible craftsmanship that allows for hours of adventures.

Features: When M-Rock began creating camera bags, they thought of all the
details for outdoor adventure in photography. All M-Rocks
modular camera bags are equipped with a number of quality user-friendly features.

Exterior: Protective weather jacket
-Adjustable padded shoulder straps: can covert to backpack or chest pack
-Two Large belt loops to attach to modular belt
-Triple protection-rain flap, zipper, and front buckle
-Three exterior pockets: passport pockets, and easily accessible side pockets
-Bungee straps for carrying additional accessories: windbreaker, tripod, umbrella

Interior: Closed Cell thick foam, protects and adds structural rigidity.

-Ultra-soft felt, non-abrasive and perfect for digital cameras
-U shaped padded lens cradle

How it works. M-Rock has a compact line of 15 different sizes and styles of
camera bags. Any of the small modular camera bags can be attached to the left or
right of medium or large modular camera bags. Using a Velcro double attachment
system, the small bags have Velcro arms that slide through loops on the larger
bags or modular belt, to create an extremely secure attachment.

Advantages of MRock. All M-Rock products have a lifetime warranty on workmanship and
materials. The warranty is just a testament to the high integrity of
craftsmanship that is used in the making of M-Rock camera bags. M-Rock camera
bags are long lasting, and will protect cameras and equipment for years to come,
not start to fall apart in a few months. M-Rock bags are also very affordable,
making them available for any level photographer.

The choice is easy when it comes to camera bags. No other competitor comes close

to the features, craftsmanship, and functionality of M-Rock camera bags. Modular
camera bags will change the way you take pictures and open up a whole new world
in photography.

Angela Oliver is an author for www.M-Rock.com, maker of the most functional and user-friendly camera bags. Visit M-Rock.com today and check out their complete line of unique and high quality modular camera bags.