Emerge Help Desk Q & A: The AV Cloud

Emerge Lead Audio Visual and Service Technician, Ryan Leslie, reviews some of his most frequently received AV Cloud related questions from Emerge customers.

Q: Which devices (Apple or Android) are better for viewing and tracking the “cloud” based camera application?

A: Either. Both the Apple and Android devices have access to the camera application which has the same functionality. Ultimately this is good news for all users, as they will have access regardless of what device they currently own.

Q: What happens if I forget or lose my log-in credentials to the camera application?

A: Any issues, including credential information, are all supported by the Emerge Help Desk. If a user experiences any types of issues, they can simply contact the Emerge Help Desk, and someone will work with the user to get the issue resolved in a timely manner.

Q: What if I am unable to configure the settings to connect to the camera system?

A: An Emerge Engineer or Technician will work with the user to get all settings configured and camera images aimed correctly before handing the application over to the end user.

Q: Can I have multiple accounts for different users?

A: Yes. Users can add several additional accounts with separate log-in credentials, which are called guest accounts. Adding guest accounts allows for the administrator to give viewing access to several other users. When adding guest accounts, the administrator can set the rights of each account which can give each user different types of access when viewing the cameras (i.e. one user may have the same rights as the administrator such as being able to move the camera image as well as adjust settings. However, other users may only be allowed by the administrator to view the image on the camera without being able to adjust any settings.

Q: Am I able to make any changes to the account or settings after the application is configured?

A: Yes. If there are any changes that a user, who has administrator rights, would like to make to their settings, they will have access to those at all times. In the event that an administrator, would like to make changes, but is unaware of how to do so, then the user will be able to contact the Emerge Help Desk and receive assistance.

The AV Cloud

Cloud Solution Brings Explosive Growth to IP Surveillance Solutions

The Internet; a vast and often undefined expanse of bits and bytes has once again enabled new life. Much like in the organic oceans of our blue planet, the Internet gives birth to new species with regularity.

 

IP Surveillance at Emerge Headquarters

As the mobile device market grew from a novelty in the 1980’s, to a convenience in the 1990’s, to business critical 2006 and of course the preferred means of communication for the millennial generation the birth of a species is now complete. The “mobile” species is no longer an idea, it is indeed a market segment that has grown to a stunning level. According to Gartner Research 428 million devices were sold globally in 2012. The sale of mobile devices represents several devices and 2 main markets.

From the Apple platform to the Android to the Windows 8 based “Ultra-book” on a multitude of platforms (Apple platform supports iPod’s, iPad’s, iPhone’s, and Macbooks. The Google or Android platform supports a wide variety of smart phones from the Samsung Galaxy to the HTC “One”. Additionally Samsung has a Galaxy Tablet Series to compete with the iPad.  The latest entrant to the mobile market is the Windows 8 based “Ultra-book”.) users are able to communicate via voice/text/mail/social media and engage the internet. This connection to the internet enables these devices to engage with “cloud” based technologies, becoming a catalyst for the dynamic growth of the IP Surveillance market.

Gone are the days of time lapse recordings on VHS tape, or expensive DVR’s that are limited to 16 channels and provide a single point of failure and also require expensive on premises hardware for storage. Today, a user can monitor any area they have a “cloud” friendly IP Camera installed by simply purchasing an app for less than $10.00US. This app manages camera functionality, such as lights/ pan, tilt, zoom/ live view and access to recordings.

By leveraging “cloud” based technology a user can install a simple IP Camera that functions as a “web-server” and can be associated to a private cloud for storage and made available to secure access via the Internet. By leveraging shared infrastructure the initial cost of provisioning the storage and servers to manage the content is eliminated. The user can engage with this solution for a low monthly fee, often less than $20.00US per camera.

In vertical markets, such as quick service restaurants, retail stores, gas stations and many more, this solution is a perfect fit. All the owner needs is a simple Internet connection, as the cameras require approximately 30k of bandwidth for upload, which is very small. The retail stores only need to connect the cameras to their network and log in to the “on line” or mobile site and they are monitoring the cameras in minutes. This is particularly powerful for users will multiple sites, as it doesn’t matter where the cameras are. Once a camera is associated with the owners “private” account, the camera will be locked in and available for live view and recording.

Check back for my next “AV Cloud” on Digital Signage.

Mobile Device Stats 2012

http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/2237315

 

IP Surveillance / IP Cam

http://www.axis.com/products/video/camera/index.htm

Emerge Web Site

www.emergeits.com

Culture Matters

Cheat Day Friday Waffle Breakfast

Did you know that Emerge has been nominated and won Best Places to Work by the Greater Cincinnati Business Journal?

Company culture is very important to Emerge.

Michelle Caridi, Emerge Business Operations Manager puts it this way, “Our people are the foundation of our company. Taking care of them and having morale boosting events is a small way to show them we appreciate how hard they work each day.”