As manufacturing facilities adopt sophisticated technologies, upgraded security is crucial. Many are investing in advanced devices and upgrading their PoE security networks to improve reliability, efficiency, and surveillance capabilities.

A higher PoE standard enhances PoE security networks, enabling better performance and scalability, such as PoE+ or PoE++, provides:

  • Support for a wider range of powered devices.
  • Cost-effective network equipment installation.
  • Significantly higher power output.
  • Enhanced power management features.

As network infrastructure becomes increasingly complex, upgraded PoE helps protect manufacturing outfits and campuses from potential threats.

Choosing the Right Cameras for PoE Security Networks

Cameras equipped with PoE technology can receive and transmit both electrical power and data over a single Ethernet cable. IP cameras integrated into PoE security networks simplify installations and reduce clutter. Smart camera systems can be accessed remotely and are much easier to maintain. They can even send real-time alerts to appropriate personnel should a security incident occur.

When selecting camera products for your business, it is important to consider where they will be located. Indoor settings require different camera builds than those that will be installed outdoors or in settings dedicated to manufacturing. Camera capabilities vary based on how the equipment will be used and the sophistication of the network.

Outdoor Camera

How Many Security Cameras Do I Need?

A manufacturing facility may need anywhere from 16 to 64 cameras and, depending on the size of the property, sometimes even more. By keeping a few things in mind, you can reduce the number of cameras that are right for your situation.

The Number of Areas Needing Surveillance

Make a list of all areas requiring coverage by a video surveillance system. In manufacturing, some of those areas might include:

  • Entry/exit points.
  • Parking lots.
  • Production lines. 
  • Manufacturing floors.
  • Warehouses and storage areas.
  • Restricted areas.
  • Shipping and receiving docks.
  • High-value equipment areas.
  • Employee common areas.
  • Offices and administrative areas.
  • Remote or blind spots.

Knowing how many cameras are necessary for a complete system installation ahead of time can reduce costs.

The Budget

Reconcile the number of cameras required with the actual budget available for making purchases. A good rule of thumb is to spend money on a router or gateway that can handle the number of cameras you will ultimately need. Get the cameras you can afford now, and then, as your budget allows, add more.

Planet Routers and Gateway

Ways to Multi-task with Security Cameras

Look for ways that a single surveillance camera can monitor multiple areas. Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras and those with wide-angle lenses can generally cover a wide, 360º area, helping reduce the number of cameras required.

IP Security Cameras Can Be Affordable

Pricing out a security system involves a combination of evaluating both upfront and recurrent pricing. While a camera installation is an upfront charge, maintenance may involve recurring costs. Many reputable brands offer high-definition security cameras with features like motion detection, two-way audio, night vision, and cloud storage at affordable prices. The widespread adoption of plug-and-play PoE setups that eliminate complex installations makes effective and feature-rich IP security surveillance well within reach for most budgets.

The end goal is to find a custom PoE solution that can grow with your business.

 

Basic Considerations for Indoor and Outdoor Installations in PoE Security Networks

Security cameras used for outdoor installments must adhere to different parameters than those dedicated to indoor use.

Indoor Cameras

For indoor installations, cameras tend to be smaller and are designed to be discreet. Casings are typically made of plastic and are not weatherproof, as they are meant to match the decor of their controlled environments. Fields of view tend to be narrower and are optimized to monitor confined spaces such as hallways, specific rooms, or building entryways. Motion detection is usually rudimentary.

Outdoor Cameras

Cameras dedicated to outdoor or industrial installation tend to be more robust. These products offer hardened cases often made of metal and are both weatherproof and dustproof, features that can protect cameras from the elements and harsh conditions common to manufacturing facilities. By necessity, these housings are typically larger, bulkier, and more noticeable to protect the powerful components inside, as well as act as a deterrent by making their presence known. Outdoor cameras commonly have a wider field of view and may have PTZ capabilities for more expansive coverage. Advanced motion detection can filter out false alarms like rain or small animals and focus on people or vehicles.

The ICG-2515FW-NR Industrial 5G NR Cellular Wireless Gateway

Wireless gateways like the ICG-2515FW-NR provide network connectivity for demanding applications and IoT deployments. Offering ultra-fast broadband access with 5G cellular capabilities, this gateway features:

ICG-2515FW-NR WiFi

  • Four Ethernet ports.
  • One fiber port.
  • One serial port.
  • DI and DO interfaces.
  • Automatic failover.
  • VPN technology.

Bundled into a compact yet rugged metal case, the ICG-2515FW-NR establishes a fast cellular connection between Ethernet and serial port-equipped devices for industrial automation, digital factories, and other industrial applications. Follow this link to request a quote.