Hikvision Cameras with Audio Recording Capabilities
Overview
Hikvision surveillance cameras with audio recording capabilities are generally divided into two categories: those with built-in microphones and those that can accommodate external microphones. The quality of the audio recording depends on the quality of the microphone. Hikvision offers various types of surveillance cameras with audio recording features. Cameras with the letter "S" at the end of their part numbers are equipped with audio recording capabilities. Below, we will introduce the types of surveillance cameras with microphones and explain how Hikvision cameras with microphones work.
What is a Microphone-Enabled Surveillance Camera?
In our daily lives, we often see surveillance cameras with microphones and small microphones, but we rarely think about what they are. A microphone is a device that captures sound waves and converts them into electrical signals. These signals can then be stored, played back, and even amplified.
In the context of surveillance cameras, microphones record sounds simultaneously with video signals. This dual functionality is used to prevent crimes in commercial or private spaces. Combining audio and video creates a much stronger security system by providing more information for identifying criminals, deterring crimes, and general surveillance.
Types of Microphones for Surveillance Cameras
Technically, all Hikvision surveillance camera microphones function the same way: they record sound as part of a two-part (audio and visual) surveillance strategy. However, there are two main types of microphones for surveillance cameras: internal and external.
Internal Microphones:
These are typically less conspicuous and integrated into the camera itself. Cameras with built-in microphones are usually more expensive.
External Microphones:
These are separate from the camera and are connected to provide audio input. Depending on the model, external microphones may connect directly to the camera or through a DVR/NVR device. If a dedicated port is available on the surveillance camera, installation is straightforward. They usually use RCA cables, but different connectors are also available.
How Do Hikvision Cameras with Microphones Work?
As mentioned above, microphones work by converting raw sound waves into audio files for surveillance and security use. A microphone operates using a diaphragm that vibrates when struck by sound waves. This vibration moves a magnet alongside a coil, converting sound into digital signals, which are then stored as audio files.
A less common type of microphone is the wireless microphone, which uses a radio transmitter to send data wirelessly through a network connection.
Types of External Microphones for Surveillance Cameras
External microphones for surveillance cameras can be categorized into three types based on their shape and structure:
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Needle Microphones:
Named for their slim design, needle microphones are also known as hidden microphones due to their discreet appearance. -
Box Microphones:
These have a rectangular body with a knob for adjusting the volume. -
Golf Ball Microphones:
Encased in a shell resembling a golf ball, these microphones are lightweight and compact, operating on 6 to 12 volts.
How to Determine if a Surveillance Camera Records Audio
Installing Microphones on Different Types of Surveillance Cameras:
IP (Network) Cameras:
Unlike analog systems, in network systems, the microphone connects to the audio input of the surveillance camera. IP cameras typically have either RCA or AV ports for microphone connections or a 3.5mm audio jack. If the camera has a 3.5mm audio jack, it does not require direct power as it draws power from the camera.
Analog Cameras:
In analog systems, the microphone connects directly to the DVR. The analog signal is exchanged directly between the microphone and the DVR, with the number of microphones that can be connected to the DVR limited by the available audio inputs.
Common Issues with Microphone-Enabled Cameras
If the audio from the surveillance camera has noise, it could be due to two main reasons:
- Low-quality microphone.
- Issues with the socket to which the microphone is connected.
Advantages of Hikvision Microphone-Enabled Cameras
One of the significant advantages of Hikvision microphone-enabled cameras is that they transmit both audio and video over a network cable as a single media stream. This integration helps avoid many synchronization issues between audio and video that users may encounter with other brands.