Video surveillance systems are used to control the adjacent territory at the entrance and the landing of a multi-storey building. A video call to the door to the apartment shows the guests who have arrived. The scheme is an intercom with video function, it has a limited scope for controlling visitors at the entrance to a house, office or enterprise.
Varieties of video call to the door to the apartment
There are many models on the market ranging from video eyes with basic functions to sophisticated devices with motion detectors and recording cameras.
The design may be wired or wireless. The first type is installed on the front door, signals are transmitted by cable. Wireless models are mounted in a convenient place; a control panel with buttons is provided. A small transmitter transmits the video signal from the gate of a private house or the gate of the enterprise.
A simple video eye is placed at the entrance to the apartment. The compact device provides security, takes pictures of visitors and sends it to the owner’s phone, is programmed to communicate with several users. The models are equipped with an answering machine and connect the guest with the owner in his absence through mobile communications or messages on the phone.
Wireless
Models use Wi-Fi, a radio channel or GSM to transmit information. This type is popular among owners of private buildings, because they provide visitors with a connection from the gate and gate. After the conversation, the owner presses a button and a passage opens. The screen is mounted on the door, carried up or away from the panel and the transmitter.
There are disadvantages in the operation of the devices:
- a wireless video call for an apartment is prone to malfunctions due to radio interference on the air;
- autonomous power is running out and battery replacement is required;
- budget models are poorly protected from vandalism.
Wireless devices do not tolerate heat and frost, so you need to choose models with the appropriate range for a particular area.
The disadvantages are minor compared with the advantages of using the device for the owner of the house.
Video eyes
The equipment is mounted on the door leaf in place of the standard eye. A miniature device records what is happening and transmits to the owner. Information is saved on the Micro-SD card and is not lost in the event of a malfunction. Information can be viewed on the screen of a smartphone, tablet or computer.
The visitor is not aware of video surveillance, because visually the device does not differ from the ordinary peephole in the door. High-quality image comes from a micro camera with a wide viewing angle. The owner can see the guest if he himself is in another city or country.
Manufacturers of well-known brands keep up with the technological progress and build in additional sensors, sensors, microphones. The device is popular with residents of the multi-storey sector when they leave apartments unattended.
Complex systems
Manufacturers combine video call and intercom in one device. Systems with a large set of functional modules are installed in large facilities and warehouses, as It is possible to coordinate cameras on several inputs from one reading gadget.
The work of complex systems includes:
- adjusting the video image in the desired format, while the picture is clearly visible and conveys all the details;
- inclusion of illumination in infrared rays, if a video call to the apartment is used at night or at dusk;
- ensuring the confidentiality of the observer, because the visitor is not aware of the presence of the owner and the observation of his actions.
If the owner leaves the object, in complex systems, an answering machine will turn on, which informs the visitor about the absence of the owner.
Main functions
A video doorbell performs many purposes, but the main thing is to see the identity of the visitor. Work begins with a guest click. A signal sounds in the room, the overview device turns on. The device is programmed for automatic photography and provides voice communication.
The image is stored on a built-in storage module or transferred to an external device. This allows you to identify the visitor, if necessary, submit an application to law enforcement agencies with the addition of a photobot. The system is configured so that a video doorbell can begin to work when driving. The owner sets the shooting parameters - a full video or a standard photo.
Device and principle of operation
The video call is divided into internal and external parts. The external panel contains a touch camera, speaker, microphone, optics and a call button (on some models). Both parts are combined by a flexible cable, which is laid in the hole of the door eye. The outer and inner sections are connected by screws so that the visitor cannot dismantle it.
The inside has:
- display;
- control keys;
- autonomous power supply or electrical unit.
The image from the external display goes inside to the panel, where the electronics carry out digital processing. The image is displayed on the internal screen as amended (if there is a distortion of the geometry).
The screen belongs to energy-consuming modules, therefore it is produced with small parameters on the diagonal. Charging is enough for months or weeks, depending on the type and intensity of work.
Main characteristics
The design has a Wi-Fi module, thanks to this a security device transmits video to the owner’s gadgets many hundreds of kilometers from home. The built-in GSM element facilitates the organization of telephone conversations or sending MMS or SMS.
Advantages of installing a video call:
- serial versions are mounted independently within 20 - 40 minutes, while the owner does not require special skills;
- the appearance differs little from the standard peephole; the video peephole is easily disguised as an optical device;
- the device is programmed to alert you to unforeseen circumstances, for example, a fire, flooding from above or a case of breaking.
If there is no function to transfer recordings over the Internet, the homeowner can view the stored files after returning home.
Rules for choosing a video call on the door to the apartment
It is not always necessary to immediately purchase additional modules to expand functionality, so when buying, you need to consider the ability to connect structural elements later. This can be a panel with a reinforced body, a camera with a larger coverage area or an integrated motion detector.
When choosing take into account:
- functionality that directly affects the formation of value;
- material of the box, lens, video call connection to the Internet;
- signal transmission method and the presence of a wired analog connection.
If the video lock is used in the presence of the owners of the house, any model is suitable. Devices with a motor activity detector are selected if visitors are registered in the absence of the owner.
Features of installation and connection
Manufacturers attach installation instructions to the video call. The owner can easily put the device on his own.
Installation steps:
- After dismantling the old optics, the outer part is inserted into the hole.
- An internal module is installed, a loop is connected, the inner plate is connected with screws.
- Batteries are installed, contacts are connected, working parameters are adjusted.
If you are installing a wireless device, it may be difficult to connect electronic locks. Specialists are invited if the user does not have such experience and knowledge.
For wireless video calls, the internal monitor is placed anywhere; for wired ones, the cable of the right size is used for this.
Well-known manufacturers
The brand Commax produced in South Korea. Video call models are equipped with high-quality flat monitors with a clear image, there is the possibility of adjusting the coverage area, sharpness and brightness, connecting an additional user panel.
Security firms often choose Korean company models Intervisionwhich have reasonable cost and wide functionality. A feature of the brand is that all assembly elements are produced at the company's sites. Official representatives simultaneously advise customers, help to install and configure video devices, conduct free follow-up service.
Chinese brand Slinex Positions non-standard models that additionally control the area around the building or courtyard. There is the possibility of simultaneous work with four screens, while 2 - 10 control panels are involved. The equipment instantly alerts the user in real time and stores all videos.
