As limiting factors of technology, such as quality and rates of video passing over Ethernet,
have been solved, the arrival of professional CCTV systems, which are based on digital streaming
of video over Ethernet, is a natural progression.
Once end devices, such as a network camera or an access control terminal are up and connected
to the LAN, they still require power to run.
Power over Ethernet technology enables LAN enabled devices to be powered over the network-cabling
infrastructure, thus avoiding the need for separate power and data cable infrastructure and
costly AC outlets near cameras, not to mention the removal of the electricians from the
installation team.
Network cameras are traditionally installed in open high places, such as corridor ceilings,
airport or lecture halls, etc. The adding of power infrastructure was a costly and long affair,
requiring dedicated electrician teams for pulling of power cables, changes of building plans and
safety approvals.
Once operating, each device was connected to a specific electric net, which if down, meant an
appearance of unacceptable "holes" in the security coverage.
By allowing the Network cameras to be installed where they are most effective and not where the
AC sockets are, the actual number of cameras may also be reduced, further reducing the surveillance
implementation costs.
There are additional key benefits for Power over Ethernet in the Security market:
- Simple means for resetting Digital Cameras - Digital CCD cameras are complicated devices,
which tend to need resetting from time to time. A "dark" camera, once discovered to require
a reset, forces the IT manager to locate the network camera, reach it, and then reset it.
By using Power over Ethernet, resetting becomes a trivial matter, enabling reset via the camera's
respective Power over Ethernet port (instead of climbing up high ceiling installations).
- Easy changes to Camera positions as needed - Altering a camera position, no longer requires
a new AC installation. It is even possible to experiment with the camera position to achieve
ultimate coverage results.
- UPS backup for the Security network - By backing up of the Power over Ethernet Midspan in the
communication room, the entire camera network can continue operation during a power outage.
This is a real must for a high-end surveillance system.
- Assured safety with advanced line terminal detection - Line detection is the technology,
which enables safe installation without worrying about high voltage damages to laptops, desktops
and other non-power ready devices, due to a misplaced connection. A faulty camera or an access
control terminal can be detected and shut down preventing damage to expensive switches and patch
panels in the Ethernet network. The line detection is one of the reasons the Power over Ethernet Midspan
is much more than an intelligent power source.
