Cisco Meraki has introduced the second generation MV Series of Cloud Managed Smart Cameras. With refined processes and cutting-edge technology, Cisco Meraki is right now changing the playing field for security cameras.
Introducing MV Smart Camera
The new cloud managed smart cameras bring together the world of traditional security cameras and innovative smart technology, relying on the same kind of processor that powers today’s smartphone. The minimalist design eliminates complicated physical infrastructure and limitations on scalability. Powered by complex and forward-thinking software, your security system goes beyond collecting footage to provide actionable business intelligence that can inform your operations.
An Overview: Cloud Managed Smart Cameras
Cisco Meraki has made a handful of strategic changes that make the MV Smart Camera the only solution one might consider when looking for security camera systems for their small of medium sized Colorado business..
- Storage – footage is collected and stored locally, eliminating the network video recorder (NVR) altogether.
- Security – the lack of NVR not only makes installation and scaling much less complex, but it also eliminates points of weakness in the network security of the IT infrastructure.
- Advanced Features – the smart camera is equipped with a variety of features that allow for offline device alerts, LLDP insights, and remote troubleshooting.
- Cloud-Based – the camera is managed through the Meraki dashboard, reducing overhead costs associated with hardware and software requirements.
- Built-In Analytics – smart technology means that complex hardware and software aren’t required to gather real-time insights.
All of these features may seem like simple perks. In reality, the MV Smart Camera lays the foundation for more effective and efficient processes across the board.
The Architecture
One of the key elements that makes the MV Smart Camera such a cutting-edge innovation is the physical architecture of the camera itself. It is designed with not only local storage capabilities, but also cloud-augmented edge storage. The connectivity of this camera system is unprecedented on the market and adds certain value to the business.
The combination of local and cloud storage means that scaling at any point in the lifecycle is a simple, easy process. Storage expands with your system because each camera added to the overall structure comes with its own local storage capabilities. The MV Smart Camera truly grows with your business.
Maximizing Data Storage
Storage is only as good as the related ability to filter data. What good is having all of the video footage at your fingertips if it takes countless hours to sort through it all? The MV Smart Camera utilizes motion data analysis to do some of the heavy lifting for your security team. All video retention can be customized based on precedents set by your team so that you have the information that is most important to your business.
You can determine the video bit rate and frame rate to precisely dictate the storage length and image quality of all the data retained by your smart camera. The most recent 72 hours is stored locally and then intelligently trimmed to eliminate film with no motion for long-term storage.
Your Partner For Security Cameras
HCWT is proud to offer top-of-the-line solutions for all of our clients needs. The Meraki Smart Cameras are the perfect addition to any security measures you have in place for your business.
Take advantage of advanced security solutions with the help of High Country Workplace Technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Security Cameras
What is a cloud-managed smart camera?
A cloud-managed smart camera is a network security camera that can be configured, monitored, and accessed through a secure online management platform. Cisco Meraki MV cameras combine video recording, local storage, remote management, and video analytics in the camera system, reducing the need for separate onsite recording equipment.
Do Cisco Meraki MV cameras require an NVR?
Cisco Meraki MV cameras generally do not require a traditional network video recorder. Video is processed and stored locally on each camera, while management and authorized remote access are provided through the Meraki cloud dashboard. Optional cloud archive services may be added when an organization needs off-camera storage or extended retention.
Where is Meraki MV security-camera footage stored?
Meraki MV footage is normally stored on solid-state storage within each camera rather than on a centralized onsite recorder. The Meraki dashboard provides secure management and remote access without continuously sending all video to the cloud. Organizations can also evaluate optional cloud archive capabilities based on their retention and continuity requirements.
How long is Meraki MV camera footage retained?
Retention depends on the camera model, onboard storage capacity, video quality, frame rate, recording schedule, motion-based retention settings, and optional cloud archive service. Some configurations retain footage for days, while others can retain it for weeks or longer. HCWT can estimate retention for each camera based on the organization’s recording requirements.
Do smart cameras continue recording if the internet connection fails?
Because Meraki MV cameras store video locally, they can generally continue recording during a temporary internet outage as long as the cameras still have power and remain operational. Cloud-based management and remote viewing may be unavailable until connectivity returns. Network and power redundancy should be considered for locations where video availability is critical.
How much network bandwidth do smart cameras use?
Bandwidth usage depends on whether footage is being viewed remotely, exported, or archived to the cloud. Meraki MV cameras process and store video at the edge, which can reduce continuous network traffic compared with systems that send every video stream to a centralized recorder or cloud-storage platform. HCWT evaluates switching, internet, and remote-viewing requirements during system design.
What cabling and power do smart cameras require?
Most business network cameras use Ethernet cabling and Power over Ethernet, allowing one network cable to provide both data connectivity and electrical power. Camera placement, cable distance, switch capacity, available PoE power, pathways, weather exposure, and mounting requirements should be reviewed before installation.
What analytics can smart cameras provide?
Available analytics may include motion search, people detection, vehicle detection, occupancy information, object detection, activity heat maps, and alerts based on defined conditions. Capabilities vary by camera model, license, software functionality, placement, and configuration. Video analytics can help organizations locate relevant footage and better understand activity at their facilities.
Can authorized users view cameras from multiple locations?
Yes. A cloud-managed camera platform can allow authorized users to view and manage cameras from multiple facilities through a centralized dashboard. Role-based permissions can limit which cameras and functions each person can access. This can simplify camera management for organizations with multiple offices, schools, government buildings, hotels, parking facilities, or remote sites.
How should an organization protect the security and privacy of camera footage?
Organizations should use strong authentication, role-based permissions, appropriate retention policies, secure network configurations, software updates, audit capabilities, and documented procedures for viewing and exporting footage. Camera placement and use should also comply with applicable privacy, employment, contractual, and legal requirements.
Can HCWT replace or expand an existing security-camera system?
Yes. High Country Workplace Technologies can evaluate the existing cameras, cabling, network switches, power, mounting locations, coverage, retention requirements, and management platform. Depending on compatibility and project goals, HCWT can recommend a phased replacement, an expansion of the current system, or a new cloud-managed camera deployment.