Video Analytics For Security and Surveillance - An Introduction

Security cameras traditionally only displayed video requiring the viewer to identify problems. Video analytics takes video feeds from security cameras and automatically identify problems without a human operator even looking at the video This has the potential to significantly reduce the need for security monitors while simultaneously improving security.

The most common form of video analytics used in security is perimeter violation. Cameras are positioned to view a fenceline or other exterior area to determine if an intruder is breaking in. When the video analytic software detects a person crossing in, it sends a message to the PC of the operator. The operator can then immediately check the video (even if the operator had been engaged in another activity). Furthermore, the operator can use the camera to track where the intruder goes to help responders track and intercept the suspect.

The most significant concern with the use of video analytics is how well they work. Security operations generally require that the video analytics systems generates minimal false alerts. While it can vary by level of security, most operations cannot handle more than a dozen false alerts per day. Beyond that, operations tend to lose faith in the effectiveness of the system and ignore the alerts.

Video analytics are being offered for other applications including abandoned objects, removed objects, loitering and slip and falls.

The two most popular ways for dep

oying video analytics are running the analytics inside a camera (often called a "smart camera") or inside a server (often inside the DVR or digital video recorder). Smart cameras is the more popular approach in the industry but generally requires the purchase of new cameras (existing cameras generally do not have the power to run analytics). Running analytics inside the DVR is often favored by organizations that want to save money and use video analytics with their existing cameras.

John Honovich is the Founder of IPVideoMarket.info providing in-depth news and reviews on video analytics. http://ipvideomarket.info can help you in designing systems, selecting products and learning best practices.