A Conversation with James Whitcomb

  • Aug 10, 2011

 With IP capabilities increasing seemingly by the day, end users need a system that can manage all the information they’re getting. Video Insight’s CTO James Whitcomb is an expert on the subject, so we sat down with him to discuss VMSs.

Q. What advantages does a centralized VMS, such as the Monitor Station in Video Insight's IP Video Surveillance Version 4.3, provide a user?

A.

Network speed and reliability have improved dramatically over the past few years as more critical systems move to the network. Telephones now use VoIP, and entire organizations rely on software applications like e-mail to function. Analog video surveillance had been installed in decentralized buildings due to the cabling limitations, but with H.264-based IP cameras connecting to existing network infrastructure, a centralized VMS can dramatically reduce the number of servers required. This also decreases the maintenance costs, because technicians do not have to travel to distributed server locations.

Q. In today's multi-camera IP environment, configuring cameras can often be a time-consuming task. How does the Monitor Station simplify that process?

A.

When using multiple Video Insight servers, the Monitor Station will store all settings in a Microsoft SQL Server database. This allows a user with the Monitor Station and administrator privileges to configure cameras centrally on any server. In addition to auto-detecting new cameras, the Monitor Station allows users to set all critical camera features includes fps, resolution, image quality and motion settings for more than 1,100 different camera models.

Q. Mobile surveillance and the ability to bring up live and recorded camera video from any computer or mobile device is becoming a talked-about feature. What mobile surveillance options can Video Insight provide a user?

A.

Users with iPhones, Blackberries, Androids, iPads, iPods and Windows Mobile Professional-based PDAs can access live and recorded video and see motion alarms. This access can occur via WiFi or cellular connections and uses the same Microsoft IIS infrastructure as the Web Client. Users access the same URL as the normal browser except the server automatically detects the device and removes the left navigation tree in favor of device-specific navigation. Users have the ability to view live and recorded video from any camera on the Video Insight system. User authentication uses the same method as the other clients, including active directory.

Featured

  • Brivo, Eagle Eye Networks Merge

    Dean Drako, Chairman of Brivo, the leading global provider of cloud-native access control and smart space technologies, and Founder of Eagle Eye Networks, the global leader in cloud AI video surveillance, today announced the two companies will merge, creating the world’s largest AI cloud-native physical security company. The merged company will operate under the Brivo name and deliver a truly unified cloud-native security platform. Read Now

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.