The best microphone for video surveillance

The video surveillance system naturally focuses on providing visual information about what is happening in the coverage area. The classic security system includes a compact video camera and ancillary equipment for fastening and data transfer to the control panel. The recording of sound fades into the background, and in most cases is not supported by cameras. It would seem that the problem can be solved by the initial purchase of a model in which the microphone is integrated - such devices are also available on the market.

However, the presence of a built-in means for recording sound does not have the best effect on the individual operating qualities of the equipment, but the aspect of its location is even more important. A compact microphone for video surveillance, in contrast to the camera, should not be located at the point of optimal viewing, but in the zone most beneficial for capturing the sound signal. In other words, the most effective is the separate configuration of the placement of the video camera and microphone. It remains only to choose the optimal model of the remote-type device.

Active and passive models - which is better?

The difference between the microphones of these types, as in the case of high-grade acoustic equipment, is the way the signal is amplified. In the case of active devices, the internal integration of the amplifying module into the structure is assumed. This approach optimizes the processing and transmission of the signal, completely fits into the concept of an operational and functional security complex. However, an active microphone for video surveillance requires additional tuning and is not capable of completely blocking extraneous noise.

Passive models, in turn, work with a dedicated amplifier, forming another link in the data transfer chain. This technology of dynamic signal processing justifies itself in solving specialized tasks with a limited set of operations. Active models are more profitable thanks to their multifunctionality, which allows them to be used in a variety of configurations of security systems.

Main characteristics of the microphone

Such equipment does not require the creation of special conditions in terms of power supply, but the ability to work with sound is important to evaluate at the selection stage. The main characteristic in this part will be the range, that is, the coverage of the signal. In traditional microphones, this parameter is expressed by sensitivity, but in this case the manufacturers only point to the distance - it averages 5-7 m. Here, the bandwidth frequency range that determines the recording quality is taken into account. Typical budget versions, for example, operate in the spectrum of 20-20 000 Hz. This is quite enough for speech processing. Also it is necessary to take into account the protective means that provide a microphone for a video surveillance camera in a specific modification. Depending on the site of application, a refractory shell, a shockproof frame or insulation from moisture may be required. Take into account and the temperature effect - usually such equipment stably operates at the lowest and highest rates.

Features of IP microphones

IP-video surveillance systems have long been not considered a separate category of security devices. The emergence of network equipment in this area is just one of the inevitable stages in the development of digital systems, which are actively replacing the analog equipment. What are IP cameras with a microphone? In essence, this is a standard digital technique, which additionally supports the ability to work with the channels of network communication.

That is, a unified security infrastructure is built, built on the technologies of network communication and united by a server or a group of servers. From the point of view of the user, the way to organize the interaction of individual components - the same microphone, camera and control panel - is especially important. This task can be solved in a wired way by means of an Ethernet network and Power Over equipment or by means of a more advanced wireless Wi-Fi module.

Reviews of models Stelberry

The Stelberry company is closely represented in this segment. The company's developers offer high-sensitivity devices with a wide frequency range and the ability to adjust key parameters. Owners of Stelberry microphones indicate worthy product performance, its mechanical reliability and functionality. The internal filling is protected by high-quality plastic and metal, which allows using this microphone for video surveillance not only at home, but also on the street. However, experts still recommend providing additional protection frames with a shockproof effect.

Reviews about models SoundMonitoring

Also one of the leaders in the market of audio equipment, under the brand of which modern models of compact microphones are manufactured. What can surprise SoundMonitoring products? According to users, active models of this family are characterized by efficient operation in the conditions of extraneous noise. That is, the creators focus on the implementation of noise-suppressing systems - as a result, the material is collected at the output with a clean and detailed sound. To the microphone for video surveillance does not exclude targeted third-party sounds from the general flow, the user also has the option of separately adjusting the filters at different frequencies.

Feedback on "ByteErg" models

This is a domestic manufacturer specializing in equipment for video surveillance. In the line of this company, consumers especially appreciate the miniature model MVK-M022. This is an active two-wire microphone, which provides the ability to broadcast the signal over long distances. Technically, transmission is possible at a distance of about 1000 m. In addition, among ordinary users, the microphone for video surveillance in the modification MVK-M022 is valued for the ability to connect to digital and analog technology. However, in some cases, you need to purchase special decoders and recorders for this.

How to choose the best microphone?

The choice will depend primarily on the application conditions and the requirements for the connection interfaces. In this case, of course, you need to pay attention to the ability of sound recording. For domestic purposes, it is possible to limit the standard digital model to the active type, which is connected to the control panel parallel to the camera through the wire. If you want a microphone for video surveillance systems at critical sites in complex security systems, then it makes sense to apply to models that support a network connection. This option will justify itself for economic reasons, and will simplify the physical processes of infrastructure organization.

Microphone connection

In the case of a wired connection, three channels are usually assumed. Two of them will provide power supply, and the third will act as the information transmission line. Again, the first point on which the signal is applied can be played by the amplifier, as in the case of passive devices, and directly by the system control panel. The question of how to connect a microphone to video surveillance through a network organization is solved by setting up protocols and software. More important here is the software connection between the components. Usually, IP-devices are supplied with proprietary software, so the process of connecting a microphone to a receiving unit or camera should not cause any particular difficulties. The most common setting is automatic mode after specifying the basic source data.

Conclusion

Although at first glance the inclusion of a microphone in the security system of video surveillance seems complicated, the practical part of the implementation of this task is quite possible even for the inexperienced user. In addition, the costs of this event fully justify the function of sound recording in order to ensure security. For example, a modern IP-microphone for video surveillance can be purchased for 2-3 thousand rubles. And this applies to high-quality models from large mentioned manufacturers. The simplest modifications are much cheaper - good options can be found in the price level up to 1 thousand rubles. There are absolutely budgetary solutions worth less than 500 rubles, but this choice should be avoided, since frankly cheap products will lose not only in functionality, but also in the reliability of the internal stuffing.