Category: Dorani News

Many people ask if their CCTV system can record video and upload it to “the cloud”.

In short, the answer is no.

No CCTV system can record high quality, high resolution images off-site from where the recorder is based.

You may see some of Dorani CCTV Systems competitors advising that they have cloud storage. However, when you look more into this, it is usually still images based on alarm notifications dependent on the type of cameras used and not actual video footage.

So you might ask, why can’t CCTV be recorded to the cloud?

Well, there are 3 main reasons…

1) The biggest restriction to cloud based storage is speed, upload speed to be exact.

Each camera at its highest resolution uses approximately 4000mbps (4M per Second for a 4M camera).

Yes, there is some variation to that depending on choice of encoding, but lets work round figures to make things easier.

4MP camera = 4Mbps
8MP camera = 8000mbps

The average speed for upload on todays internet services in Australia is 15mbps (150000Mbps) – this is average, many are much lower than this, we find in real world testing 8 -10mbps is the average.

So, with 1 x 8MP camera streamimg out of your modem, it is already at near maximum, this is with NO other services operating, or in high peak usage times.
The cloud storage service you are also sending the information too is restrictive in the speed that it can receive and write the information to the cloud.

Also remember, in a blackout, no modem = no upload, a UPS will not work as the NBN nodes in Australia are not always battery backed to maintain a stable internet connection to all regions in the event of a blackout.

2) The second is storage availability and cost

Your recorder generally hold 12 days of footage for 4 x 8MP cameras. This equates to around 2TB of space, which would need to be paid on a monthly basis to your cloud provider. That would be a costly subscription expense that you have to pay monthly based of site storage facility.

3) The third is to do with the recorder, the rules and legislation about the storage of footage, retrieval and encryption.

Recorders are designed to encrypt, time stamp and hold the footage in a manner to be retrieved using the recorder or the recorders available software. You cannot just take a HDD from the recorder, plug it into your computer and play the footage back. This is because if you could do this, you could tamper with the footage that is on the recorders HDD.

When you use the recorder to extract the footage, this removes the encryption and puts it in a viewable file to be played on consumer media playing software.

Be wary, some competitors state they have cloud based storage, along with a subscription fee.

This is generally NOT all footage being stored. It often can do small snippets of footage based on the correct set up for your cameras, etc. or snapshots taken and sent to the cloud. All of this at a fee.

What does Dorani suggest?

Run Dual Recorders

The simplest way to make sure your recordings are secure is to mount the recorder in a location inaccessible from thieves.

Run Dual recorders, this may cost a little more at installation time, but would only be equivalent to a few months of “cloud storage” that we have identified as being impossible with the current networks within Australia.

Have one recorder installed in different location to the main recorder. This isn’t just securing the footage from being stolen (1 gets stolen, but the other remains) however also ensures if a HDD failure was to occur, a 2nd devices is operating.

The 2nd device may not need to have all 8 cameras, or as long recoding time.

Maintenance

The biggest issue with recordings, or lack of recordings is people not maintaining their system properly – at a minimum you should check that there is no updates available for your system (Dorani updates are free and cloud based) and that your system is still recording correctly, go back into the footage using your mobile device, or on your recorder itself and make sure ALL cameras are recording properly.

Subscription Free Notifications and Emails

What if you still want OFFSITE information.

Subscription FREE notifications and emails. All the cameras can be used to send notifications, however If you choose AI cameras and have them configured correctly to achieve accurate alarms, you can have AI VCA events snapshotted and emailed to your email at the time of the snapshot.

This does take some setting up and you need to maintain/monitor this setup to ensure that only valid events are snapshotted and emailed, and that you do not fill your email with irrelevant information.

Not offsite, but many Dorani cameras offer onboard storage solutions also to an SD card that can be installed in the camera, this means if a failure to the HDD was to happen or the HDD was to be stolen, the footage would have been recorder to the SD card also. Please note however, at the time of the recorder being unplugged the camera will lose power and not record any more footage.

There are many solutions that can make you feel more secure at home, however they all come with advantages and disadvantages, talk to your installer or the team to ensure the best solution is provided.

Many people enjoy having all their technology right at their fingertips by being able to access it via a smartphone or tablet. With an increasing number of people installing video surveillance systems to protect their homes and businesses, it’s no wonder that a lot of them wonder if CCTV can be connected to phones. The good news is that most modern CCTV systems offer this functionality, provided you have a compatible smartphone or tablet.

Dorani is on the frontline when it comes to research, development, design and building processes for security solutions in Australia. When you work with us, rest assured that you’ll have access to some of the most innovative technology on the market. Contact our team today for more information on CCTV systems that can connect to smart devices or for a free quote.

Why Would I Want to Connect my CCTV to my Phone?

There are actually a number of benefits to connecting your home or business CCTV system to your phone, the most notable of which is that it allows you to check on your cameras from wherever you are in the world. If you notice anything unusual in the footage, such as an intruder or even a fire, you will be able to alert the relevant authorities immediately. Some systems can be set up so that they alert you to move when you’re out, letting you know instantly that something is amiss.

Some CCTV systems also offer the ability for two-way audio, allowing you to have a conversation with someone at your home or business even if you’re on the other side of the world.

At Home

Some people use their CCTV cameras to check on their children or pets when they’re at home alone. This can provide you with peace of mind that everyone is okay and where they’re supposed to be. They can also alert you when packages are delivered, when contractors arrive or leave, and when surprise visitors turn up.

In a Business

Some people use their CCTV cameras to check on their employees and ensure that they’re doing their jobs correctly. They can also be used to identify visitors to your premises and buzz them into the building remotely. In loading dock or retail areas that aren’t always manned, you can be alerted when a delivery or customer has arrived.

How do I View CCTV on my Phone?

Setting up your CCTV cameras so that the feed is viewable on your phone is actually quite simple:

The very first thing you need to do is determine whether your system allows for remote viewing. This information should be available in your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. You may also need to download an app or install software to make remote viewing possible.

To view your cameras from your phone, most – if not all – systems require an online connection. You will need to ensure that your CCTV cameras are connected to your home or business’s WiFi.

From your computer or network video recorder (NVR), you will need to configure the account that manages your CCTV system. You will need to set a secure account name and password. This is absolutely critical, as it will ensure that you are the only person who can access the feed.

Not having a password on the account could allow anyone to access your cameras and use them for their own nefarious purposes.

Once your account name and password have been set, you will be able to input these into the app on your smartphone or tablet. This will provide you with access to the app version of the management system.

View the camera feed from wherever you are.

If your system allows, you can enable push notifications (usually motion activated) so that you’re alerted to the goings-on around your home or business. Some systems allow you to set timeframes that you want to be alerted during and even allow you to set the sensitivity of the sensor.

ALL Dorani CCTV systems can be viewed on mobile devices with the correct network settings and connection through either Dorani IP Viewer App, Dorani Smart View App and Dorani PC Management Software.

Troubleshooting Guide

It’s not unusual for there to be a few issues with viewing your CCTV on your phone from time to time. Use these basic troubleshooting tips or contact your provider for more personalised assistance:

I can’t see my camera’s feed

This may be a router issue – check if your cameras have been correctly configured to your router. The network may also be down, so the cameras can’t stream the feed to you.

Alternatively, it could be your phone’s network that’s down. Remember that streaming video tends to take up a lot of data. Your connection may be slow or weak and that is affecting the stream.

My camera’s feed isn’t clear

Check your camera lens for any smudges or obstructions. Ensure that they have been placed in locations where they get an unrestricted view of the area.

A weak internet connection could also be the culprit. Your phone may not have the data speed or connection necessary to stream the feed with full clarity.

I can’t hear my camera feed’s audio

Check to see whether your particular camera offers sound recording. If it does, ensure that this feature has been enabled (some systems don’t enable it in order to save data space).

Watch Over Your Property from Anywhere

The ability to check in on your home or business from anywhere in the world is a feature that many people find desirable. Dorani offers a range of CCTV cameras that can be connected to smartphone and tablet devices, allowing you the flexibility to check the feed at any time and from anywhere. To learn more about which systems offer this functionality, contact our skilled team.

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CCTV cameras that are used outdoors will be exposed to all sorts of weather – including sun, rain, hail, wind, frost, dew, and even snow in some cases. We all know that electronics and water do not generally mix, so it’s understandable that you might wonder whether CCTV cameras are waterproof or not.

Dorani has been providing customers in the Melbourne, Brisbane and Gold Coast areas with high-quality, customised security solutions for more than a decade. We can help you select CCTV cameras that will be able to withstand all kinds of weathering, ensuring that your system continues to monitor your property no matter the conditions. Contact us for more information.

So, Are CCTV Cameras Waterproof?

The short answer is no. A device that is waterproof will be completely impervious to water. When we’re talking about cameras, these are the ones that people use to take photographs underwater.

CCTV cameras don’t actually need to be waterproof, but they do need to be weatherproof to ensure that they can withstand the elements when installed outdoors.

Dorani CCTV Cameras are IP67 rated which is extremely high weather protection, ensuring correct installation and cable connections can mean these cameras can be installed in extreme conditions.

What Does Weatherproof Mean?

As the name suggests, weatherproof CCTV cameras will be able to withstand the weather. This includes rain, sleet, snow – whatever Mother Nature chooses to throw their way. They’re fitted with a weatherproof cover or housing that is designed to keep moisture, dust and dirt out of the camera’s delicate internal components.

It’s important to remember that not all weatherproof cameras are equal. As well as protection against wet conditions, a high-quality camera will also provide protection against extreme temperatures, extreme humidity, shocks, and even high falls. When shopping for CCTV cameras to use outdoors, you should be looking at their environmental ingress protection (IP) rating.

What Is an IP Rating?

The IP rating refers to how protected the CCTV camera is against solids and water getting inside it. The rating is represented by the abbreviation IP followed by two digits. The first digit refers to protection against solids, and the second digit refers to protection against water.

IP first digit (solid protection) rating:

IP second digit (moisture protection) rating:

The three most common ratings that you would see on a CCTV camera designed for outdoor use are IP66, IP67 and IP68.

A rating of IP66, for example, means that the camera is dust-tight and is protected against strong water jets, like a pressure washer.

What Is an IPX Rating?

Sometimes, you may come across CCTV cameras that have ratings like IPX6 or IP5X. This means that one of the protection ratings (solids or moisture) has either not been tested for or it just hasn’t been provided. The X is used to replace the unknown number.

So, a camera that is rated at IPX6, for example, doesn’t have a rating for its protection against solids but does offer protection against strong water jets.

What IP Rating Should I Look For?

The preferred IP rating of your CCTV cameras will depend entirely on where you intend to use them. This breakdown may be of assistance:

• Cameras rated at IP44 or less should only be used indoors
• Cameras rated at IP44-45 may be used outdoors, but only in well-sheltered areas
• Cameras rated at IP65-67 can be used outdoors and are weatherproof
• Cameras rated at IP68 are submersible and are usually reserved for marine purposes

Please keep in mind that these are only recommendations; the requirements and specific environmental factors of your premises may require cameras with a certain IP rating to be used.

Choose Weatherproof CCTV Cameras with Dorani

At Dorani, we want you to have peace of mind that your CCTV camera system will stand the test of time – no matter where it has been installed. This is why we offer a wide range of high-quality cameras with varying IP ratings, ensuring plenty of options for outdoor installations. If you want to install CCTV cameras at your home or business and are unsure of the IP ratings to look for, get in touch with our helpful team for assistance.

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If you’re in the market for a security system for your home or business, it probably didn’t take long for you to realise that there are many different types to choose from. Abbreviations are also commonly used, like DVR and NVR, which can make the process even more confusing. If you’re wondering what is an NVR in CCTV systems, you’ve come to the right place.

As a leading provider and installer of security solutions, like NVR CCTV systems, Dorani is committed to providing our customers with innovative and aesthetically pleasing products that are backed by quality and reliability. Check out our NVR video surveillance systems on our website and get a free quote for your home or business.

What is an NVR System$

Network video recorder (NVR) camera systems are a type of CCTV system that records video footage and stores it on a hard disk, mass storage device or even in the cloud so that it can be reviewed at a later date. These systems are paired with digital internet protocol (IP) cameras to create a thorough video surveillance system that is suitable for use domestically or commercially.

NVR systems can be as small as a single camera that keeps an eye on your home’s front door or as large as thousands of cameras spanning multiple locations across the globe. Both indoor and outdoor cameras can be used as a part of the system to ensure maximum visibility. Cameras are usually left running 24/7 and can even be customised to alert you to certain activity during specific times of day or night.

DVR Systems are now old technology using analogue based cameras, Dorani only offer NVR IP Based systems as these give a much higher level of image quality and recording ability.

How Does an NVR System Work?

Generally speaking, NVR camera systems are made up of three components and they work together as follows:

• Cameras
  There are many different types of security camera to choose from (including analog and wireless WiFi). As mentioned above, NVR systems are typically combined with IP cameras. An IP camera that uses an Ethernet connection is known as a Power over Ethernet (PoE) camera. In such a case, the ethernet cable will perform double duty – it powers the camera as well as transfers data to the NVR. PoE IP cameras are available in many styles – Turret dome cameras are now the most popular.
• NVRs
  A key part of the CCTV security system is the NVR itself, which is a device that receives video footage via a network data connection and stores footage so that it can be reviewed later. Some NVRs contain hard drives, whereas others are cloud-based. NVR devices contain several Ethernet ports, allowing multiple cameras to be connected (i.e. an 8-channel NVR will be able to support up to 8 cameras).
• Network Connection
  Finally, IP cameras will connect to the NVR device using either a wired or a wireless connection. Typically, a wired connection will see the cameras connected to the device via Ethernet cables.

How do I View the Camera Stream or Recorded Footage?

Software is usually packaged with NVR devices that includes camera setup, onboarding, and viewing capabilities for playback. This allows the footage from the cameras, once it has reached the NVR, to be stored or viewed remotely, online or offline.

The NVR works together with the cameras and the network to provide live viewing, notifications, alerts and alarms.

On-Premises NVR vs. Cloud NVR

When choosing an NVR CCTV system, you will need to decide whether you want the footage stored onsite or whether you want it stored in the cloud. There are many arguments for cloud systems in this day and age.

The cloud is used as an avenue to connect your recorder to your mobile device, it allows easy connection across all platforms. The cloud is NOT the location where your images and footage stored, to store all footage offsite is not possible based on network restrictions, in Australia there is no upload speed available that would allow the 5mbps PER camera to stream to the cloud. The average upload speed in Australia is 12mbps, there is also storage costs, etc. that further limit TRUE offsite cloud storage facilities for recorded footage.

Competitors to Dorani may offer cloud based storage, however this is generally a few snapshots only, and normally requires a subscription.

Dorani NVR’s can be set to do similar, however the snapshots can be emailed to you with ZERO subscription fee.

What Features Should I Look for in an NVR System?

NVR CCTV systems may offer a wide range of features, including:

• Cloud-Based
  If you want the convenience of visibility on the go, a cloud NVR system will be a better match. With cloud-hosted footage, you will be able to access all your cameras and footage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from anywhere in the world. You will also receive the usual cloud benefits – a managed infrastructure, flexibility with customised applications, and automatic firmware and software updates.
• Export and Share Clips
  The whole point of a CCTV video surveillance system is to monitor your property and keep it safe. If an incident were to occur, the ability to export and share clips of the captured footage with relevant stakeholders will be beneficial. If there was a break-in, for example, you’d be able to hand over footage of the intruders to the police to help in their investigation.
• High Quality Cameras
  If you want to capture high definition video, you’ll need to partner with a provider that offers high quality PoE IP cameras. Look for cameras that offer super HD resolution (for crisp video quality), wide dynamic range (to optimise video quality in high-contrast lighting), night vision capabilities, and an IP67 weatherproof rating.

Choose NVR in CCTV Video Surveillance with Dorani

With more than 10 years experience in the provision of high quality security solutions to the Melbourne, Brisbane and Gold Coast regions, rest assured that Dorani’s skilled installers know what they’re doing when it comes to the use of NVR in CCTV systems. No matter what sort of property you’re trying to protect, our team can create a video surveillance solution that gives you peace of mind and enables you to access it whenever or wherever you want.

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One of the most common questions asked is how much it will cost for a security system. However, it is difficult to answer as every house varies and every customer’s requirements are different.

The biggest factor to consider is whether your home is in construction or an existing home, the size and structure of your home, and what is required to get cabling installed. Then it comes down to the individual system.

CCTV Systems

When it comes to installing a CCTV system, there are several factors to consider beyond the ones mentioned above. For instance, you need to determine how many
cameras you require for adequate coverage and peace of mind, what level of camera you need, and what additional features you want, such as audio, alarms, notifications, or Artificial Intelligence.

Other considerations include whether you need a monitor, brackets, an internet feed, and where your modem is located.

Taking all of this into account, for an Australian-distributed CCTV system like the Dorani CCTV system with four cameras included with a recorder, prices start around $1,800. This covers the majority of single-storey homes on standard house blocks, but prices will vary depending on the above factors.

It is essential to be aware of the many black-market CCTV products on the market that are not supported in Australia for warranty or service support. Although they may appear similar and much cheaper, they are not the same as branded and supported products. Please note that there are some restrictions on installing certain brands of CCTV systems in government buildings and other sites. For more information, see this article: Victoria Prepares for Potential Purge of Chinese Made CCTV Cameras. At present, there are no restrictions for domestic or commercial installations.

Alarm Systems

When it comes to installing an alarm system, you need to consider the number of detectors required and whether you have pets. You may also want to consider additional features like remote disarming, night arming, and an app connection to notify you when the alarm goes off or to disarm it from your phone.

For a Bosch alarm system installed in a single-storey home, prices start from $1,100 for a fourdetector one-keypad system with sirens, battery, and plug pack, which will cover the average 240sqm home depending on layout.

Intercom systems

If you are interested in installing an intercom system, you need to determine how many monitors you need, where to install the door station, and whether you need a keypad, internet diversion, or exit buttons. For a Dorani intercom system installed in a single-storey home with one door station and one monitor, prices start from around $880.

Please note that all of these prices are approximate and vary depending on every installation. We recommend that you contact us with your details, and we will happily forward your details to one of our preferred installation agents in your area. These prices will also vary if you wish to install them during construction, so plan ahead, and we can assist in organizing a preferred agent to provide a solution during construction. It is essential to discuss all your security requirements and needs with the installation agent to ensure that the products, design, and process are precisely what you need for your security.

Lastly, don’t forget to ask about a Premier Clean Ducted Vacuum System. The majority of our agents can assist with the installation of a ducted vacuum system into your home.

Commercial properties from retail stores to office buildings are prime targets for vandalism, theft, and an array of other security threats. Now more than ever, these properties need to have reliable security measures in place to best protect their assets and ensure the safety of their employees and customers alike. Businesses of all sizes need to ensure they are doing everything they can to protect the ongoing safety of their property.

CCTV (closed-circuit television) remains as one of the most popular security measures for a reason. Continuous monitoring of your commercial property is essential, and the benefits vastly outweigh the costs involved. However – with just a big market of security technology available, where should you start? Continue reading as we break down the best commercial CCTV systems in the 2023 market.

For personalised security advice, contact our team at Dorani today.

Timeless Security With CCTV

Even as technology continues to grow and change, CCTV remains one of the best possible security options for commercial properties. The range of benefits offered by CCTV security makes it an exceptional option for businesses looking to protect their assets. By capturing visual evidence in the case of an accident or act of crime, you can rest assured that CCTV will give you everything you need to respond accordingly.

Give yourself total peace of mind by making it easier to identify intruders, capture safety issues, and help law enforcement as they prosecute offenders. Additionally, CCTV can act as an effective deterrent for criminals. Just seeing the presence of cameras can discourage criminals from attempting to break into a property. Modern CCTV has grown with the advancement of technology, making current systems sophisticated, high-definitation, and filled with endless features. From remote monitoring to advanced analytics, you can probably find a CCTV system that will cater to your every security need!

The Importance of Professional Installation

Working with security experts to design, implement, and install your commercial CCTV system is vital to the security of your business. As tempting as it can be to take matters into your own hands, an expert should be the one installing your security system. With the necessary expertise and experience to ensure correct installation and optimised design, it will be well worth the extra cost to work with a professional.

Of course, partnering with an experienced security team can also give you greater insight into the technology available and what might be the right choice for you. At the end of the day, taking the time to discuss the needs of your business and the unique requirements of your commercial property is the only way to ensure you receive the perfect security system down to every last detail.

Finding Your Perfect CCTV System

So, what type of things need to be considered when matching a business with a CCTV security system? Ultimately, consulting with a business about CCTV for their property is all about finding their own unique solution. There is no one solution fits all for security, so several things need to happen to ensure your CCTV is perfect for your business. First, your premises will need to be comprehensively surveyed. 

From there, you will need to pin down your ideal budget and all the features you’re looking to include in your security setup. With different types of systems available, it’s important to understand what’s on the market and what is going to suit the needs of your property best. With so many options on the market nowadays, it’s going to take some deliberation to ensure you find the right fit!

Popular Commercial CCTV Systems 

So, where should you start? There are plenty of brands advertising CCTV systems nowadays, and it can be hard to know which ones are best. Fortunately, getting advice from some local security experts can help give you a better idea of what to look for. Here are just a few of the reputable CCTV brands endorsed by security professionals for commercial use:

• Bosch
• Panasonic
• Sony
• Dahua
• Hikvision
• UNV (Uniview)

Dorani Systems are all manufactured by Uniview technologies.

Contact Dorani for Personalised Security Advice

Protecting your business is a serious matter. Any commercial property owner will understand the importance of taking every single precaution and measure possible to protect their business and assets. Fortunately, you don’t need to take on this endeavour alone. At Dorani, our security experts take pride in helping businesses of all sizes to ensure their ideal security systems. To enquire further about commercial CCTV installation, reach out to our team today.

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