A Smart Camera is a self-contained unit. It includes the imager as well as the ''intelligence'' and related I/O capabilities. Because this format resembles the format of many intelligent sensors, these products are often referred to as ''vision sensors.'' More often than not, however, a vision sensor has a limited and fixed performance envelope, while a Smart Camera has more flexibility or tools, inherently capable of being programmed to handle many imaging algorithms and application functions.
The main advantages of Smart IP Cameras can me summarised as follows;
Lowest Network Load - Processing is done on the camera which results in the shortest reaction times. This also alleviates the workload for any recording devices in the system and makes "event-driven surveillance" possible; that is, unless activity is detected in the scene, no video (or only video with low frame rate) is sent to the` operator or recording system.
Integratability – Infinitely scalable and highly customiseable to suit any environment.
Reliability - With fewer moving components (fans, hard drives) and lower temperatures, Smart Cameras are more reliable and offer the higher durability than DVRs.
Accessibility – Remote administration and/or viewing coupled with online updates and upgrades of on-camera software
Simplicity - Software tools available with Smart Cameras are of the point-and-click variety and are easier to use than those available on DVRs. Algorithms come pre-packaged and do not need to be developed, thus making the Smart Camera quicker to setup and use.
Cost - Smart Cameras are generally less expensive to purchase and set up than the DVR solution since they include the camera, lenses and processing.
