IP Camera Systems and Surveillance Blog

Should a Small Business Install Its Own IP Camera

Posted on February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

What Small Businesses Should Know About Self-Installing an IP Camera System

When a small shop or business considers installing an IP Camera surveillance system, one of the first questions is whether to choose a DIY (do-it-yourself) solution or hire a professional system integrator. At first glance, DIY systems appear simpler and less expensive, while professional IP camera systems seem complex and costly. In reality, the decision depends on several important factors, including security objectives, risk tolerance, expertise, and long-term expectations.

This article describes the pros and cons of self-installation versus professional installation.

Technical Jokes and Cartoons – 137

Posted on January 31, 2026February 1, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

Two caterpillars are escaping a spider…

They climbed up a small branch and reached the edge, but realized they were now trapped.
“Hold on tight!” says the first caterpillar, and he quickly chews through the branch. It snaps, and they begin to fall, but he grabs two protruding twigs and steers the branch through the air with grace and finesse.
“That’s amazing!” says the second caterpillar. “How are you doing that?!”

Enhancing Your Video Surveillance System with Audio

Posted on January 23, 2026January 23, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

Integration of Surveillance Camera Systems and IP Audio Systems

Integration of IP Audio with IP Surveillance Systems

Adding audio to video surveillance enhances security in many ways. Today’s advanced IP camera systems are more than just surveillance. By utilizing advanced Video Management Systems (VMS), it is easy to add intercoms and paging, thus creating a very powerful security system.

This article describes how merging video and audio can enhance both situational awareness and real-time interaction, improving safety, deterrence, and response time.

Is it Time to Update Your Surveillance System?

Posted on January 17, 2026January 17, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

There Are Safety, Security, and Financial Benefits to Upgrading

Things to consider when deciding whether to upgrade your IP Camera System include a higher resolution to see a person more clearly or a wider field of view. Also, better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range, so you can see things in challenging lighting conditions. Most importantly, you can save security costs by using the latest AI-enhanced cameras. You save money by reducing the staffing needed to detect dangerous incidents; the intelligent cameras detect incidents and notify security as soon as they occur.

This article describes the benefits of upgrading your IP camera system. You can also see our video Is it Time to Update Your Surveillance System

Technical Jokes and Cartoons – 136

Posted on January 17, 2026January 17, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

A man was lost in the desert. He was desperate for water. Finally, he found a small town, and in the town was a shop. He went into the shop and found a small man behind the counter. “Help me,” he said. “I would like some water.”

The storekeeper replied, “Sorry, I have no water. Would you like to buy a tie? They are only $5.

The thirsty man shouted, “What, you lousy shopkeeper, I don’t want a tie, I need water.”

When to Consider Upgrading Your Access Control System

Posted on January 15, 2026January 16, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

When Is It Time to Upgrade Your Door Access Control System?

Door access control systems are a foundational part of any physical security strategy. Yet many organizations continue to rely on systems designed for a different era, systems that lack today’s security capabilities, flexibility, and intelligence. If your access control solution feels rigid, outdated, or difficult to manage, it may be time to consider an upgrade.

This article describes the reasons for upgrading your access control system. You can also watch our short video When to Consider Upgrading Your Access Control System.

Best Surveillance Camera System for Business

Posted on January 1, 2026January 1, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

What are the Best IP Cameras, Video Management Software, and AI-Enhanced Systems?

To determine the best surveillance system, you must first understand your objectives. The purposes of your surveillance system include increased safety, reduced theft, improved productivity, and reduced liability. It also includes how quickly you need to be notified of an alarm condition.

This article describes how to select the best IP surveillance system.

Technical Jokes and Cartoons – 135

Posted on December 28, 2025December 28, 2025 by Bob Mesnik

My therapist says I have a preoccupation with vengeance. We’ll see about that.

My neighbor knocked on my door at 2:30 AM. Can you believe that? 2:30 AM! Luckily, I was still up playing my bagpipes.

I told my wife she should embrace her mistakes. She gave me a hug.

Video Management Software Advances

Posted on December 15, 2025December 17, 2025 by Bob Mesnik

The Evolution of VMS

Video Management Software (VMS) is an essential part of the total surveillance system. It is crucial to recognize that a surveillance system is incomplete without VMS. The latest management software has progressed beyond its original purpose of recording video for later review.

This article describes how Video Management Software has evolved over the years.

Integration of IP Camera Systems with Audio

Posted on December 2, 2025January 22, 2026 by Bob Mesnik

Integration of IP Surveillance, Audio, and Intercom Systems

Modern security systems have evolved far beyond simple video monitoring. Today’s advanced IP camera systems are more than just “eyes on the scene”; when combined with sound and intercom integration, they become a much more effective security response tool.

This article describes how merging video and audio can enhance both situational awareness and real-time interaction, improving safety, deterrence, and response time.