Cisco Systems Release 4.2 manual Cameras, Video Encoders, Client PCs

Chapter 1 Overview

Introducing the Cisco Video Surveillance System

Cameras

Cameras provide video images and, depending on the camera, audio. VSM supports a wide variety of fixed and movable pan, tilt, zoom (PTZ) cameras of these types:

•Analog cameras—Capture video and (on some models) audio and output this information in one or two analog streams (depending on the model). An analog camera requires a video encoder to convert this stream to a digital stream that can be processed by the IP network and VSM components.

•Digital cameras—Also called IP cameras, these devices capture video and output this information in one or two digital streams (depending on the model).

For details about the features, functions, placement, installation, and operation, of a camera, see the documentation that is provided for the camera.

Video Encoders

Video encoders convert video streams from analog cameras into IP packets, compress these packets, and forward them to the network. An analog camera must be connected to a video encoder to operate with VSM.

Client PCs

Client PCs are computers that can connect to the network on which VSM runs and that you use to access various VSM features and perform various VSM operations. These PCs are identified as follows:

•VSOM client PCs—Provide access to the VSOM web-based interface that you use to configure, manage, and operate VSM.

•VSVM client PCs—Provides interactive access to live and recorded video, which you can display on configured monitors.

One PC can function as both a VSOM client and VSVM client simultaneously.

Cisco has verified the successful operation of dedicated client PCs that are configured as follows:

•Operating system—Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2

	Cisco Video Surveillance Manager Getting Started Guide, Release 4.2/6.2
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