How are CCTV cameras with motion sensors used?

Innovative technologies are used to ensure safety in the commercial and domestic sectors. They help to maintain a static observation of what is happening around and react to every event that happens. For this purpose, a camera with a motion sensor is used.

Using cameras with motion sensor

For security purposes, special devices are used that react to the movement of an object in the field of view of the device. As soon as some movements appear nearby, they begin to record information. In this case, the reaction manifests itself instantly. A device is installed on the streets to monitor the situation, in the security systems of shops, government agencies, private houses.

The choice of such a device is required taking into account its technical characteristics and the tasks that it will perform. Some cameras have a microphone with a different sensitivity threshold. Information is recorded on a memory card inside the device or on a server.

Difference from other cameras

The main difference between such a device and other types of recording devices is the principle of operation. Recording starts when a moving object enters the field of action of the sensor. Such cameras are installed in places where there is not a very intense flow of people.

In the absence of movement, the device is in standby mode. This time is 240 hours. Expensive cameras can be adjusted so that they don't just go off. You can also exclude some movements to which the device will not respond. This will save space on the storage medium.

Types of cameras with a motion sensor and characteristics

CCTV cameras with motion sensor and recording are analog and digital. They are intended for outdoor or indoor installation.

Analog

Analog equipment is characterized by the presence of an additional data carrier, which is connected separately. There is no motion sensor in them. Movement is detected by a software function. It is fixed by a video recorder.

The principle of operation of the apparatus is simple. The video stream is sent to the DVR. There it is divided into the same number of squares. After that, the analysis of the color flow occurs. Thus, movement is detected due to significant changes in the squares.

Digital

Digital camcorders are more popular. They shoot in high definition. In such a device, there is a memory card for recording data or a hard disk.

Swivel

In such devices, the automation is adjusted so as to notice the change in pixels in a certain area of ​​the frame. Noticing any movement, the camera pans to this area. As soon as the subject is out of range, the camera returns to its original position.

Such devices are characterized by an automatic patrol function. For this, their movement along a certain route is configured.In this case, there can be several dozen programs. As soon as the device reaches the mechanical limit of movement, it turns in the opposite direction. PTZ cameras are additionally equipped with infrared illumination, they can react not only to movements, but also to sound.

Such devices are installed on the street or in a building. They are domed or spherical in shape.

The case is often made of a durable material that is resistant to mechanical damage. However, the rotary mechanism is located outside, therefore, it is exposed to external negative factors. This can disable the device, therefore it is better to install it in the house.

Outdoor cameras

Outdoor surveillance devices are available in color and black and white. The second option is more expensive. Such cameras shoot day and night, and the image quality in expensive models is equally good. Black-and-white cameras provide a clearer picture in low light conditions.

Outdoor devices are able to withstand frost or heat. Their body is durable, dust does not get inside, so the service life of the device does not depend on the influence of external conditions. These cameras are expensive. There are cheap options as well, but they can be easily overwhelmed. Before using the outdoor camera, you need to determine exactly where it will be installed.

These devices are intended for round-the-clock monitoring of the protected object. Miniature cameras are used for covert shooting. For the correct choice of the device, the following parameters are taken into account:

• Body shape. For surveillance of a large area, body products are more suitable.
• Matrix resolution. It affects the quality of shooting and image detail. The optimal indicator is considered to be 1-2 megapixels.

Outdoor camcorders need to be purchased based on cost. Cheap options will not last long.

Indoor cameras

Internal cameras are intended for an apartment, entrance or summer house. They are characterized by high quality shooting. The motion sensor in such devices is especially relevant.

IP Cameras

The main feature of the IP camera is the built-in network interface as well as the web server. It can be connected to any internet network. With the help of such a device, you can record data and transmit it to any point on the planet. They are often used in video surveillance security systems. The devices are equipped with additional accessories:

• microphone (it is intended for speakerphone);
• speaker (recorded video can be viewed with sound).

Any other sensors can be connected to the device. It can automatically send messages to e-mail, connects to a modem. You can use special software or a standard browser to work with them.

Access to the IP camera can be individual or shared. The first option is used in security systems. The second is used in public places near landmarks.

Methods for implementing motion detection

Motion sensors are hardware and software. They differ in the method of motion detection.

Programming method

The software method is used in new models of video cameras. The optical signal is converted into a digital image on a photosensitive matrix. The program reports changes in the frame depending on the change in the light flux. The pictures are compared with each other, after which the movement is determined.

It is common for expensive systems to use intelligent software. It supports video analytics. Some models of cameras pre-process frames, automatically capture a video stream.

The disadvantage of this method is the low efficiency of work at long distances.Outdoor cameras capture a large number of false movements that are caused by changes in lighting, and at night, by increasing the sensitivity of infrared illumination.

It is better to use devices with software for motion detection indoors. Notifications about any movements can be sent to the phone. Software sensors are more suitable for larger areas.

Hardware method

Some cameras use hardware-based detection. Moreover, such a sensor is separate from the camera. It can be wired or wireless. In the first case, signal and power transmission is carried out by wires. The second option requires Wi-Fi or a radio signal to work. Models with wireless sensors are more popular.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Motion Sensor Cameras

Many motion-sensor cameras are self-contained. Such devices have the following advantages:

• only selected moments are recorded, which allows you to significantly save space on the storage medium, reduce video viewing time, filter out unnecessary frames;
• the ability to save data in high quality - you can see the smallest details;
• species diversity: can be chosen for indoor or outdoor observation;
• advanced functionality and ease of use;
• the possibility of long-term work in autonomous mode if the model is equipped with a battery;
• there is no need to install a separate server on which data will be stored, since you can pick up a device equipped with a large memory card;
• small size, which allows the camera to be installed in hard-to-reach places, hidden areas.

Any CCTV camera is capable of recording information with minimal object movement.

The equipment also has certain disadvantages:

• There is a possibility of remotely causing damage to property, since data recording starts only at the moment the movement of an object in the field of view of the device starts.
• If the sensitivity of the sensor is not adjusted correctly, the device automatically turns on when small animals, debris carried by the wind, enter the tracking area. With frequent switching on, the resource of the equipment decreases.

The device is adjusted manually or automatically. The efficiency of the camera will be higher in places where the traffic of people is low.

Installation and configuration features

The equipment must be installed at a considerable height so that no one can intentionally remove it. The tracking area should not contain objects or objects that block the view of the camera itself, as well as the motion sensor. The device must monitor windows, attic hatches, emergency exits, fire escapes and other points through which intruders can enter the building. The adjustment allows you to configure the following parameters:

1. Picture resolution.
2. Record type, start time. It can be carried out continuously or turn on only when there is movement. You can enable video recording only at night.
3. Choosing a storage location. It all depends on the quality of the picture. If the recording is inconsistent and the image resolution is low, a memory card is sufficient. Professional systems transmit data to the server. The storage time is also customizable.
4. Receiving notifications. If movement is detected, messages can be sent by email or SMS.
5. Access settings.

Cameras for surveillance systems equipped with a motion sensor are the best option for monitoring residential or country houses, streets with a small flow of people. Their work does not require a large storage medium, because information is transmitted directly to the server.Thanks to the advanced functionality, it is possible to make different settings, watch video with sound, or just the necessary frames.