Copyright (c) 2008 Wes Fernley

Airports are busy with people from all around the world, which is why they need high quality video surveillance. Much can happen in these places, which is why airports seem to be the first location for innovative surveillance technology to be used. If you want to know what the most recent development is, look no further than an airport. Security personnel have to deal with threats of terrorism, the many rules and regulations of the aviation industry, and the hustle and bustle within the terminal. Without using the newest innovations in video surveillance technology, airports wouldn't be as safe as what they are today. The use of IP network cameras and video analytics is helping improve the quality of surveillance while monitoring areas within airports.

IP-based Surveillance and its Benefits

The benefits are numerous when it comes to IP-based surveillance in airports. Money is saved through wireless installation, ease of installation, and the added benefits of remote access considering any authorized personnel can access the IP camera's network from a PC located anywhere.

- Live Real-Time Video - Real time surveillance doesn't involve just watching what is going on through one camera. Someone authorized to log into the network from a remote location can watch multiple departments at one time.

- Intelligent Cameras - Some IP cameras offer remote panning, tilting, and zooming. This allows for the scanning of an area in which suspicious activity is suspected. Some IP cameras are even programmed to detect certain activities such as reverse movement through airport checkpoints, detecting items that have been left behind, facial recognition, and much more. These types of analytics can also run in real-time. It is not just something that occurs during the playback of a recording.

- Expandability - As the airport gets larger, so can the IP video surveillance system. Cameras can continue to be added onto the network as they are needed. IP camera recording software allows for an unlimited number of cameras to be connected even from multiple locations - onsite or remote.

- Digital storage - The video footage is recorded and stored digitally. This isn't like the old fashioned analog system that required cassette tapes. Digital systems make finding a certain point in time a lot easier.

Configuring Your IP Cameras

The placement of your IP cameras can be rather tricky because of the high security demands and the many areas that require security. Here are some things to consider:

- What is the history of crime within the airport?

- What security systems currently exist throughout the airport?

- Have any attempted or completed terrorists plots occurred at any time?

- Does the airport have different buildings linked by some form of transportation?

- Is this a congested airport?

- Are the security checkpoints adequately staffed and do they follow procedures?

- Are there any areas that are considered high risk?

- What methods are in place to keep outsiders from accessing restricted areas?

- Is employee identification and access control handled appropriately?

- How are the planes and equipment protected?

Setting Up an IP Surveillance System

Setup is very important to ensure that all of the proper areas are monitored. Here are the things you need to do:

- Make sure the IP cameras are positioned at entrances and exits and that it is possible to see everyone passing through the doors.

- Monitor all open areas.

- Cameras need to be situated around check-in areas to have images of the procedures being implemented and passenger arrivals.

- Security checkpoints should be monitored for suspicious activity, congestion, and any disputes that may occur.

- If there are modes of transportation used to get to different areas of the airport, IP cameras should be used to.

- Cameras can be installed in the baggage claim area to prevent theft of bags and other items.

- It is also important to monitor restricted areas.

About the Author:

Network camera products offer many features over traditional CCTV security cameras. They offer the ability to monitor any location - both personal and business - from a remote location via the Internet. Network camera products should be considered for any type of surveillance application