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Optional Equipment |
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Listed here is optional equipment and components available to customized your installation
so that not only does it get the job done, but is resistent to loss of power, physical threats,
and takes advantage of the latest camera, alarm, video, and network technology. |
| Power Supply |
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Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS)
A UPS provides two important functions for any critical electrical equipment. First, as a
sophisticated battery backup during power outtages or when power to the building is intentionally turned off by bad guys.
Secondly, as a line conditioner to protect against brown outs and voltage spikes to ensure the
constant delivery of clean power. Different models are available depending on system power
consumption rates and required run length while in back mode. |
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Network Controlled Power Outlet Box
At first glance this device looks like a simple power strip with a grounded cord that plugs into the wall and connects to
a black box containing 4 outlets. However, it is in fact a powerful network device that connects to your router or access point and allows individual control over each power outlet over the internet! It has a built in web site where you can instantly control over each outlet or the setup up of time schedules on a calendar. Access to the unit secure and password protected. The applications for this functionality are almost endless. However, we've found it very useful for rebooting remote computers and IP cameras which may have "hung" in additon to controlling lights. |
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Dedicated Camera Power Supply Distribution Box
If your installation has more than 2 cameras it is recommended that a single, dedicated power distribution box be used
in lieu of individual transformers (also known as "wall worts"). These power supplies come in 4,8,9, 16, and 18
camera
configurations and supply 12 volts of DC power to cameras, microphones, and IR illuminators. Each power lead is protected by a resettable "PTC" fuse. If there is a short condition, only power to the camera with the short is halted. And because its of the PTC type, there's no fuse to replace and power will automatically be restored when the short is fixed. |
| Cameras |
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Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera
Also known as PTZs or Speed Domes, these versatile cameras are truly quite amazing in their
ability to quickly survey a large scene, then zoom in and focus on a subject. Not only is operating these cameras outright
fun, but they can now be controlled through any combination of your DVR's remote, a standalone joystick controller, or
through software over the internet. Once only affordable to casinos, millitary installations, and industrial
clients, these remarkable cameras have recently dropped a great deal in price, now making them much more affordable to home
owners and small businesses.
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Wide Dynamic Range Camera
Sometimes bright light and dark shadows make for conditions that are difficult for normal cameras to perform
adequately. The problem is that light exposure adjustment is applied equally to the entire scene, making a
good picture impossible when there is a large range or constrast in light levels. This is where the wide
dynamic range (WDR) camera is needed. It uses advanced logic to optimally adjust the brightness level of
each pixel on an individual basis. The result is a great picture regardless of the light conditions.
These cameras also work very well in low light conditions and can make use of IR illuminators.
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Standalone IR Illuminator
These units just contain a collection of LED bulbs for the purpose of adding infrared (IR) light to a scene covered by a
night vision camera.
Sometimes they are used to augment the light produced by LEDs present on an existing camera, and in other cases they are the sole source of IR light for a night vision camera that has no LEDs. |
| Network |
Wireless Router If your current internet connection consists only of a modem (broadband or dialup)
that connects to a single personal computer, then you may want to consider installing a wireless router. We say “wireless” because
the ability to support laptop connections and other wireless devices is worth a lot compared to the very small cost savings
over non-wireless models. The router itself is actually a small computer that has many functions including being a network
switch and a multi-port switch. The built-in switch will typically allow 4 connections using standard cat-5e network cable in
addition to potentially dozens of wireless connections. Wireless connections can have strong password protection or disabled
altogether if desired. However, it is a good feature for future expansion and will also allow the DVR to be placed in a separate
location and communicate with the router without having to run additional cable. Another important function of the router is
to establish a secure, private network whereby computers and devices can communicate directly with each other. Communication
within this private network does not travel over the public internet, making it faster and more secure. The router must
be specially configured to allow an outside connection
via the internet to access a device on the private network. Typically, both the CCTV DVR and your local personal computer will
both plug into ports on the back of the router. Check out the How It Works section for a diagram showing the most common way
a small network is connected to the router.
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Wireless Access Point (WAP)
This device can be thought of as a wireless
extension cord
to one of the router ports. It will allow the DVR or other network devices that don't have a built-in wireless network
card to connect wirelessly to the router. |
Network Switch A switch is used in conjunction with a router or wireless access point (WAP) to expand
the number of ports that accept direct network connections. Since most routers already come with at least 4 input ports, a
switch is most often used to connect more than one device to a WAP which typically only has one port.
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| DVR Accessories |
Flat Screen Monitors and TVs Flat screen technology is the way to go if you need
a monitor or TV to view DVR output. Depending on system configuration and budget, WattWire will
help you select the best equipment for you to view your surveillance video feeds and control menus.
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Hard Disk Storage
All WattWire DVR systems come with a minimum of 250GB of hard
disk storage space used to store recorded video. This is a lot of space. However, your requirements may
demand more capacity. Most DVR systems are configured to gracefully handle the "disk full" event by
overwriting the oldest video clips first. Thus, there is always a moving window of time from which you can
search event logs and archived video. To calculate how much disk space you need, we need to know two things.
First, "What is the minimum period of time that you may have to go back and retrieve archived video?"
Secondly, "What is the average amount of daily disk consumed by recorded video?" The answer to the second
question depends on the number cameras, recording resolution, quality, frame rate, and the average time
each camera records every day. The calculations can be a little complicated for the uninitiated, but with
our experience we'll be able to get you the right answer.
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DVR Lock Box This is a super strong enclosure made of 16 guage steel that can be bolted to a wall or
the floor in situations where extra physical security is required to prevent the DVR from being stolen or vandalism..
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| Alarm |
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Alarm Sensors
The two most common alarm sensors are reed switches which are useful for detecting a door or window opening
and motion detectors which use passive infrared light. However, there are many more that can sense temperature
drops, flooding, and other environmental conditions. Alarm sensors can be associated with a camera and trigger
the recording of video, email alerts, and even external electrical devices (see below). |
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Sirens, Chimes, Speakers, Flashing Lights Sometimes it is useful to have light or sound indicate when a camera
detects motion or an alarm sensor has been activated. The level of sound or light can be customized anywhere from very intense to being comforable and just
subtle enough to get the job done.
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