Experiment- 83 :- Setup of an IP Camera for Basic Surveillance scenario, logging and monitoring of Devices/Locations

Aim :-  Setup of an IP Camera for Basic Surveillance scenario, logging and monitoring of Devices/Locations

Objective:

To physically set up an IP camera device on a local network, configure it for surveillance, enable logging and motion detection, and monitor the camera feed both locally and remotely.

Materials Needed:

• An IP camera (Wi-Fi or Ethernet enabled)
• Router with DHCP server access
• Computer or phone for configuration and monitoring
• Ethernet cables (if wired setup)
• Optional: Network Video Recorder (NVR) or PC with surveillance software

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Experiment Procedure:

Step 1: Camera Physical Setup

1. Unbox your IP camera and verify all accessories (power adapter, cables).
2. Choose a mounting location with good visibility covering your target surveillance area.
3. Mount the camera physically on walls, ceilings, or other suitable places.
4. Connect the camera to power (and Ethernet cable if wired).

Step 2: Network Connection

1. Connect Ethernet cable from camera to router or power it on if wireless.
2. Wait for the camera to initialize (LED indicators usually show power and network status).

Step 3: Find the Camera IP Address

1. Log into your router’s admin panel.
2. Navigate to the DHCP Client List or connected devices section.
3. Identify the camera’s IP address by matching device names or MAC addresses.
4. Alternatively, use an IP scanner tool on your phone or PC.

Step 4: Access and Secure Camera Interface

1. Open a browser and enter the IP address of the camera.
2. Log in using the default username/password (consult the manual).
3. Change the default password immediately to secure the device.

Step 5: Configure the Camera

1. Assign a static IP address within your network range to avoid future access issues.
2. Adjust image resolution and frame rate depending on bandwidth.
3. Enable date/time settings or sync with an NTP server.
4. Enable motion detection if available.

Step 6: Setup Logging and Alerts

1. Configure event logging options (motion, alarms).
2. Set email notifications or push alerts if supported.
3. If the camera has onboard SD storage, test recording features.
4. Alternatively, set up storage on an NVR or PC surveillance software.

Step 7: Viewing and Monitoring

1. Test live streaming locally from the web interface.
2. Download and configure the manufacturer app or use third-party apps to access remotely.
3. For remote access:
   • Configure port forwarding in your router for camera ports.
   • Setup DDNS if you have a dynamic public IP address.

Step 8: Maintenance and Testing

1. Test alerts and logs by triggering motion.
2. Review logs to confirm event recording.
3. Periodically check for firmware updates and update the camera.
4. Backup recorded videos as needed.

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Optional Extension:

• Use surveillance software (like iSpy or Blue Iris) to connect multiple cameras, view feeds live, and maintain centralized logs.
• Integrate camera feeds into a dashboard web app or network monitoring system.

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Expected Results:

• The camera should stream video feed in real-time.
• Motion events should be detected and logged.
• You can view the camera feed locally and remotely.
• Alerts and logs should reflect activity accurately.