Video Surveillance with Audio Recording
Applications
Analog Equipment
IP Systems
In security systems, more and more attention is being paid to recording audio alongside video. Ten years ago, sound in video surveillance was primarily used for two-way communication (like entry control systems, video doorphones, etc.).
However, with the increasing demand for enhanced security, hybrid systems are gaining popularity, where audio monitoring is a vital method of detecting threats.
Practical Applications
From a practical standpoint, video surveillance with audio recording is recommended in the following areas:
- Business – Stores, offices, service centers.
- Home security – For houses and apartments.
- High-security facilities – Where audio analytics are used for a comprehensive threat assessment.
In the first two cases, video cameras with built-in microphones are typically used, which cover a specific area of the room. For special facilities, separate audio monitoring systems are used, and synchronization with video channels is not always required, especially in the investigative phase.
For both analog and IP cameras with built-in microphones, this is an optimal solution for both budget-friendly systems and professional-grade video surveillance with audio recording. Hybrid equipment offers simpler installation and configuration, as well as the ability to significantly enhance the overall security level.
Areas and Features of Application
For instance, installing a camera with audio recording in a store can help effectively resolve conflicts with customers. In an office, such systems provide complete employee monitoring, allowing you to quickly identify cases of negligent work performance.
Additionally, video cameras with audio recording are used for monitoring conversations and evaluating customer service quality.
From a legal standpoint, the use of such equipment is allowed as long as it complies with existing legislation (e.g., video surveillance cannot be installed in break rooms, cafeterias, or changing rooms). It’s also illegal to conduct covert (hidden) video recording with audio. (See our article on the legality of video surveillance).
Benefits of Video Surveillance with Audio Recording
One significant advantage of video surveillance with audio recording is the ability to gather more complete information about an incident at the protected site. There have been instances where audio monitoring allowed for quicker identification of suspects.
Increasingly, software recognition and real-time sound analysis are being implemented. These technologies classify the threat level based on the sound background (e.g., screams, gunshots, breaking glass, etc.).
Given that most modern IP cameras are equipped with built-in microphones, surveillance systems are often designed with audio monitoring capabilities. However, video surveillance remains the priority, and camera placement doesn’t always account for the microphone’s coverage area.
Surveillance Cameras with Audio Transmission
Surveillance cameras with audio recording fall into two main categories:
- Analog
- Digital (IP)
The digital category is broader, with equipment varying in the method of transmitting digital data (IP, P2P technologies). There is a steady trend toward the adoption of digital video surveillance systems, which offer broader functionality.
Professional analog surveillance cameras with audio recording (models with built-in microphones) are rare. The main reason is that quality audio recording and monitoring typically require separate, active microphones.
However, due to the growing popularity of video systems with audio channels, some manufacturers now offer equipment with the option to connect an external microphone directly to the camera. This approach helps reduce the costs of setting up an audio system (no need for a separate power line).
IP Cameras with Audio Recording
With IP cameras that include audio recording, using a digital data transmission channel allows the microphone to be built-in (no need for additional cables). The sound quality, however, can vary significantly depending on the camera model.
In budget models, cheaper microphones are installed, and low-quality recordings are often improved using software processing (e.g., noise cancellation).
These cameras are often equipped with a speaker for two-way communication. This equipment is typically used for home surveillance or security systems for private properties with lower security needs.
In professional IP cameras, microphones with higher sensitivity are used, and sound correction software ensures that soft sounds aren’t filtered out, regardless of the recording quality. Many professional models also allow for the connection of an external microphone.
It’s worth noting that active microphones require separate power lines (you cannot use PoE for external microphones).
Such systems allow for a full-fledged audio monitoring setup and can be configured for analysis according to the specific characteristics of the monitored location.
Audio Recording in Analog Systems
Audio recording in surveillance systems depends on the type of system:
- Analog – Requires a DVR or a PC with a video capture card.
- Digital (IP) – Uses a network video recorder, PC, or cloud servers (audio is recorded simultaneously with video).
In professional analog surveillance systems, special DVRs are usually used. The choice of DVR depends on the number of cameras with audio recording. For example, some models offer 8 video channels but only 1 audio channel. This means audio recording is only available from one camera (microphone).
If many cameras with audio recording are needed, a DVR with matching video and audio channels is required.
The main drawback of such a solution is the high cost of the DVR. Microphones are connected via separate lines or combined cables. For example, using a KKSV-3-4x0.50 cable can power an active microphone.
IP Video Surveillance with Audio Recording
IP surveillance systems are the optimal solution for video with audio recording. With IP cameras equipped with built-in microphones, you can configure the audio recording from each device, and the audio track will be synchronized with the video.
Recording audio with an IP NVR is straightforward – just select the video and audio option in the camera settings, and the sound will be saved on the same track as the video.
When using a PC or cloud service for surveillance, the process is the same—just enable the audio recording function in the camera menu. The key when setting up IP surveillance with audio is choosing the right camera based on its technical specifications for your needs.
If an analog surveillance system is already in place at the location, you can extend its capabilities by installing microphones (a popular model is the "SHOROH") and using a DVR or video capture card with audio channels.
For IP systems, it’s recommended to purchase cameras with built-in microphones right from the start, as it’s a more efficient solution, regardless of the surveillance application. You can always add an external microphone later if needed.
Note: Outdoor cameras may not be ideal for audio monitoring due to high ambient noise, which can hinder effective sound capture.