Motion detection is a valuable tool that most current IP network cameras are equipped with. Motion detection generally has many variables, so that it can be configured to fit your specific requirements and environment. For this tutorial, we are using a Loftek CXS 200 IP camera. The CXS 2200 IP network camera is an entry-level camera, but the features and quality make it a popular choice as a first IP network camera. After setting up the camera, users can take advantage of the motion detection features of the camera. All alarm settings can be accessed under the Alarm tab of the web interface. On the CXS 2200 IP network camera, the main alarm window is divided into three sections, Alarm Detect, Alarm Action, and Scheduler.
Motion Detect Armed / Sensitivity
This is the ON/OFF setting for the motion detection. It also adjusts the sensitivity. For reasons unknown to mankind, the higher the number the less sensitive the camera. Users can choose from 1-10 from the dropdown box.
Alarm Input Armed
The CXS 2200 IP network camera is equipped with a series of external alarm pins that can be connected to optional alarm sensors. For example, a magnetic door or window sensor can be used to signal an alarm to the camera. Both always on and always off circuits can be used, and are specified by “Open” or “Close” in this section.
IO Linkage on Alarm
This setting also sends a signal through the external alarm outputs on the camera, and provides an optional way to activate an external device when motion is detected, such as an audible alarm or light.
Send Mail on Alarm
The camera can automatically send email notifications with screenshot to up to 4 receivers upon detecting movement, using credentials from a user-specified email account.
Upload Image to FTP
The camera can automatically upload screenshots to an FTP server upon detecting movement, and can also upload to a server at regular intervals.
Enable Alarm Server
Users can send alarm alerts to a server by providing the address, port, user name and password.
Send Alarm Notification by HTTP
Users with HTTP access can have the camera automatically send alarm notifications to an HTTP server and proceed with customized actions. Users with programming knowledge can create any number of actions using the HTTP notification together with the following code:
GET /api/alarm.asp？
username=username&
userpwd=password&
rea=alarm type (1=Motion Detection, 2 =Alarm from Alarm in port)&
io=0
Scheduler
The CXS 2200 IP network camera in this example has two settings, one for continuous monitoring, and one that activates the alarm during specified times. The times are based on the camera’s internal clock, so users should ensure that the clock is properly set. The alarm times are divided into days, and 15-minute time blocks. This feature is useful for areas that receive high traffic during specific times and motion alarm is not needed, for example a business that follows normal business hours.
The following main settings of the CXS 2200 IP network camera will allow users to get the most out of the motion detection features of the camera, and will allow the camera to assist in providing an extra level of security in addition to standard monitoring.
