Let say that you want to install a video surveillance system. You start shopping the cameras, and an NVR (network video recorder), the switch and the necessary wiring. Then, as soon as everything gathered, the installation will follow to enjoy your system and take advantage of its features. Precisely these features are the outcome of the Video management system (VMS).
Therefore, in this article I am going to walk you through the Video Management System.
A video management system is a software that manages the features of the video surveillance system. Which are mainly: receiving footage from cameras. Storing the feeds and allow users to have access to the recorded footage. It also allows the users to access to live feeds; use PTZ controls and play back recorded videos and export them and make screenshots. All these features are offered by basic VMSs, which are provided in all NVRs.
A Video Management System
The cameras quality is not the only thing that determines the performance of your system. Because a video surveillance system is much more than cameras and screens.
Depending on your system, how big it is, your expectations, its scalability; whether you are using cameras from the same manufacturer … etc., you would be better to choose a VMS
Why choosing an integrated VMS ?
- Architecture
An open VMS uses a servers-client architecture between the server/NVR and a workstation. It allows having variable workstations with a standalone software at each station with specific configuration. Furthermore, the server and all workstations are constantly communicating
- Flexibility
The ONVIF profiles ensure the integration of all compliant cameras into the system. That allows you to integrate all compliant brand cameras. Further this helps to extend existing systems by adding or mix all the cameras you have
- Video analytics
Analytic capabilities make VMS much more sophisticated than the built-in software. It allows very advanced features of video analytics. It can provide object recognition. Face recognition and tracking. It can also provide license plate recognition. As a result, it enables the system to locate a particular vehicles
Read more about video analytics
- Integration with other security systems
Most video management system integrate all other security systems. So it triggers access control alarms and automated security devices. It sends alerts to the work stations to alert the operators about any particular event.
- Redundancy
Allows recording feeds and stock database on multiples servers. Thus, it is the best way to ensure a reliable back up policy
How to get a vms ?
Sounds good having a VMS !! But, how can someone get it ? How affordable it is ?
Actually, Video Management Software (VMS) providers offer different option to purchase their products. As a matter of fact, there are Free versions. Licensed ones. While others are available with limitations.
Bluecherry is a free VMS with optional paid support that runs on Linux system
Axis companion is a free VMS with only axis cameras
In conclusion, take your time to choose the best video management software for your system. And keep definitely the price in mind. Are your needs more for the short term or long term ? Is it worth to go for a VMS or a built-in with the NVR can do the job? Analyze those questions to make sure you build a reliable security system for your premises.
