IP Camera : Introduction

An IP camera is a networked digital video camera that transmits

data over a Fast Ethernet link. IP cameras (also called "network
cameras") are most often used for IP surveillance, a digitized
and networked version of closed-circuit television (CCTV).
Two types:
Centralized IP cameras, which require a central Network Video
Recorder (NVR) to handle the recording, video and alarm
management
Decentralized IP cameras, which do not require a central Network
Video Recorder (NVR), as the cameras have recording function builtin and can thus record directly to any standard storage media, such
as SD cards, NAS (network attached storage) or a PC/Server.

Two industry groups for standardization of IP video surveillance

The Open Network Video Interface Forum : 20 companies including
Honeywell, GE Security and Cisco
The Physical Security Interoperability Alliance : includes Axis
Communications, Bosch and Sony

 Benefits of IP camera over analog technology include:

Remote administration from any location.
Digital zoom.
The ability to easily send images and video anywhere with an Internet
connection.
Progressive scanning, which enables better quality images extracted
from the video, especially for moving targets.
Adjustable frame rates and resolution to meet specific needs.
Two-way communication.
The ability to send alerts if suspicious activity is detected.
Lower cabling requirements.
Support for intelligent video.

Disadvantages:
Higher initial cost per camera
High network bandwidth requirements
Extra security measures needed to ensure data privacy

 IP Camera Manufacturers

Vivotek Inc
Axis Communications
Arecont Vision
ACTi Corporation

4XEM Corporation
Panasonic
Sony
PiXORD Corporation
Multipix
MOBOTIX
Lumenera Corporation
JVC
IQinVision
D-Link

Depending on available features the cost varies from USD20 to

USD500