Ready Your Physical Security Network for IP

modernization to the advanced capabilities of an IP-based security and surveillance solution is the best step in protecting your people, customers and business. But the challenges are many. Proper planning is critical to avoid cost, risks and disruption to business. When you design your LAN upgrade with long reach PoE switches, you simplify and save on costs. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your modernization to IP:

#1: Take an inventory:

Document all of the IP end points you wish to deploy (i.e. IP cameras, speakers etc.) along with the specific locations of each device.

#2: Consider bandwidth:

Determine the bandwidth that is required to serve the device and requirements today and into the future. What is important for real-time applications is availability of bandwidth. The point-to-point topology and dedicated bandwidth per end point ensures the availability and amount of bandwidth is available regardless of loads on the production or other networks. IP cameras generally require between 3mbps and 50mbps and down.

#3: Power considerations:

Remember that IP security and surveillance devices typically require between 5 and 30 watts of power.

#4: Separate the network:

Keep in mind that you will not want the IP end points and applications on your core production network. Given bandwidth requirements of streaming video it is recommended to have a physically separate LAN for IP security.

#5: Save by leveraging what you have:

The existing coax point-to-point infrastructure can be leveraged with new long reach PoE over coax switches. By transforming the existing coax infrastructure when modernizing to IP, you save on costs associated with ripping and replacing the infrastructure.

#6: Eliminate dependence on IDF Closets:

Long range PoE over coax switches have an advantage over standard PoE switches, eliminating the reach limitations and reliance on multiple IDF closets. You will no longer need to worry about how far the end point is from the nearest IDF closet. The introduction of new switches does not create new IDF closet requirements.

#7: Allocate cost savings to areas that matter:

By repurposing the existing infrastructure, the savings can be allocated to applications, driving a better return on investment vs. spending more on infrastructure.

Download PDF here.