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What is the next-generation surveillance platform realized by IP cameras, VMS, and AI video analysis?

In recent years, surveillance camera systems have evolved from mere "recording and monitoring" devices to a foundation supporting enhanced safety, improved operational efficiency, and digital transformation through the use of AI-powered video analysis. While the possibilities of video utilization are rapidly expanding, including suspicious behavior detection, crowd visualization, and visualization of business processes, simply introducing AI and cameras does not immediately yield value. The success or failure of such systems largely depends on the design of the Video Management System (VMS), which forms the foundation of video utilization.
This article will focus on the "Key Considerations for Integrating IP Cameras and VMS" proposed by Genetec.
Based on Macnica 's practical experience and incorporating insights from AI-powered video analysis, we will explain three key points in VMS (Video Management System) design.

1. Open architecture increases the flexibility of AI utilization.

When selecting a VMS, the first thing to check is whether it supports open architectures. If it's an open architecture VMS,

• You can choose a camera without being tied to a specific manufacturer.
• Allows for gradual upgrades while utilizing existing camera assets.
• Flexible addition of AI video analysis, access control, license plate recognition, and more.

These are some of the advantages.
We often receive inquiries from customers who say, "We'd like to start with recording and surveillance purposes, and then introduce AI video analysis in the future."

In this case, if a closed VMS is used,

• Limited AI options available
• A separate system is required to add AI.
• As a result, it becomes necessary to rebuild the entire thing.

These kinds of challenges tend to become apparent. If we are looking ahead to the future use of AI, then VMS should be open from the start. This is a point that Macnica has consistently emphasized.

2. VMS is not a "video system" but an "IT/AI platform."

Integrating IP cameras and VMS is not just about connecting devices; it's about designing the IT infrastructure itself.
The following factors are closely related, especially when utilizing AI video analysis.

• Resolution and frame rate
• Bitrate and network bandwidth
• Server performance and GPU resources
• In-camera AI or server-side AI?
• How to use multiple AIs effectively

Depending on these design factors, the detection accuracy, real-time capabilities, and scalability of the AI can vary greatly.

At Macnica,
• It works fine in the PoC (Proof of Concept), but the increased number of machines in the production environment makes it difficult to keep up with the processing demands.
• Adding AI caused the network to become a bottleneck.
I have seen many cases like this.

Therefore, we design cameras, VMS, AI, networks, and servers as an integrated system, proposing configurations that look ahead to the "future vision" from the PoC (Proof of Concept) stage.

3. Cybersecurity and Privacy are Crucial in the Age of AI

As the use of AI video analysis advances, the importance of cybersecurity and privacy measures increases. Because video data contains a lot of personal and confidential information,

• Video encryption
• Access rights and log management
• Continuous firmware updates
• Rules for handling AI analysis results

Such measures are essential. Furthermore, from the perspective of privacy protection,

• Masking/anonymizing of individuals
• Area-specific browsing control
• Video utilization according to purpose
Such functional and operational designs are required.

At Macnica, we not only provide products, but we also support the creation of an environment where AI video analysis can be used with confidence by offering assistance that includes explanations to information systems and legal departments, and the development of operational rules.

Summary: VMS is the "foundation" for AI utilization.

To truly utilize IP cameras, VMS, and AI video analysis,

• Think not about what you can do now, but "how you want to use it in the future."

• View VMS not as video software, but as an "IT/AI platform."

• Design with security and privacy in mind.

This perspective is essential.
Macnica combines cutting-edge VMS, including Genetec, with diverse AI video analysis technologies to provide comprehensive support from proof-of-concept (PoC) to production operation and future expansion.
To not just "view" video, but to "make the most of" it, rethinking the VMS design is the first step towards a next-generation surveillance infrastructure.

Features of the physical security solutions offered by Macnica

Macnica supports its clients by combining its integrated security platform "Genetec Security Center" with the use of AI such as the anomaly detection AI "icetana" and facial recognition, a comprehensive understanding of systems from sensors and edge devices to networks, and governance design that takes cybersecurity into consideration.
In addition, based on collaboration with security companies, we have clarified the division of roles between people and systems, leading to operational optimization that takes into account the unique operational burden and regulatory requirements of banks.

You can find information about the configuration and deployment options of Genetec (Security Center / Security Center SaaS), which is designed with this integrated management in mind, on the product page.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q. What is VMS? And why is VMS necessary for IP cameras?
A. A video management system (VMS) is software used to manage and monitor video feeds from IP cameras.
It enables centralized management, storage, and analysis of video footage, and allows for easy management and protection of security across cameras installed in multiple locations.

Q. Are all IP cameras compatible with any VMS?
A. No, not all IP cameras are compatible with all VMSs.
It is important to check whether the VMS complies with industry standards such as ONVIF, or whether it is compatible with the target camera model.
A list of compatible cameras can usually be found on the VMS provider's website.

Q. What points should be considered when choosing a VMS for IP cameras?
A. Compatibility: Check if the VMS is compatible with the IP cameras you plan to install.
• Scalability: Can it flexibly accommodate future expansions?
• Cybersecurity: Does it have built-in encryption and secure access control?
• Ease of use: Is it suitable for everyday use with an intuitive interface?
• Support system: Availability of technical support, and availability of regular software updates.

Q. How do I connect an IP camera to a VMS?
A. Ensure that the camera and VMS are on the same network.
- Access the VMS interface and add the camera by specifying its IP address.
Enter the camera's authentication information.
- Check if the video stream is displayed correctly and adjust settings as needed.

Q. What are some common problems when integrating IP cameras? And how can they be solved?
A. Network configuration issues: Check if the IP address and VLAN settings are correct.
• Compatibility issues: Check whether it is ONVIF compliant or listed on the vendor's compatibility list.
Firmware mismatch: It is important to keep both the VMS and camera firmware up to date.
• Bandwidth limitations: Camera resolution and frame rate are optimized based on available network capacity.

Q. How can I maintain smooth performance when using a large number of cameras?
A. Implement a high-bandwidth network infrastructure (such as Gigabit Ethernet).
Optimize camera settings (resolution, frame rate, etc.)
- Distribute the video processing load across multiple servers.
- Monitor the overall system performance and conduct regular audits.

Q. Is it possible to integrate IP cameras and VMS with the cloud?
A. Yes, many VMS solutions offer storage and access via cloud or hybrid configurations.
This provides high flexibility in remote monitoring, data backup, and disaster recovery.

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