Alarm.com ADC-VC727P Posts

Up to now, Alarm Grid has never enabled Pro Video with Analytics on Alarm.com video accounts unless specifically requested by the customer. This feature comes with additional costs that we have always covered. Now that Video Motion Detection is no longer an option, we've changed our policy.

Although Alarm.com ended support for enabling Video Motion Detection on new accounts in February 2023, its effect on our video customers only became clear to us recently. One of our customers alerted us to an issue that highlighted the impact of this change, prompting us to institute this new policy.

Please note that this policy change does not affect the monthly monitoring price for Platinum (Self or Full) Monitoring or Standalone Video Monitoring. This adjustment is simply to ensure our customers receive the full monitoring experience they expect. Below, we'll discuss the differences between Video Motion Detection and Video Analytics.

Video Motion Detection (VMD)

Method of Detection: VMD detects motion by analyzing brightness and color changes in user-defined pixel areas within camera images, eliminating the need for a separate motion detector.

Configuration: VMD settings are configured using VMD windows, which are drawn by the user on a live video preview. Users can adjust the sensitivity (how much change is needed to trigger an event) and target size (the percentage of the VMD window that needs to be filled by movement) for each window.

Recording Rules: VMD recording rules can be created to trigger recordings when motion is detected in specified VMD windows. However, for some camera series, the option to choose specific VMD windows to trigger a recording is not available; any motion in any window will trigger a recording.

Best Practices: For effective detection, it's recommended to draw longer and narrower boxes, similar to tripwires, in areas where motion should trigger a recording. Avoid placing windows in areas with constant or insignificant motion like moving trees or reflective surfaces. VMD windows should not overlap, as this can lead to false activations. For outdoor cameras, creating lines or barriers with the available windows is suggested instead of one large box.

Limitations:

• VMD may not always function properly due to environmental factors like flying insects, falling leaves, or precipitation.
• Certain older camera models do not show the VMD window turning orange upon motion detection during configuration.
• The VMD windows for certain cameras are not visible to your alarm dealer (for troubleshooting purposes) in the Partner Portal, even after they've been configured.
• Sensitivity settings may affect all VMD windows for some camera models.

New accounts created after February 2023 will no longer have the option to create VMD recording rules, as Alarm.com is moving forward with Video Analytics as their primary motion-activated recording solution. However, accounts created before this date, and older cameras that only support VMD will continue to be able to use VMD, and support for it will continue.

Video Analytics

Method of Detection: Video Analytics continuously scans a property and identifies and classifies objects such as people, vehicles, or animals. It can understand traffic patterns and detect specific behaviors like loitering, or objects crossing virtual lines.

Configuration: Video Analytics rules are configured using virtual tripwires (to capture movement through an area) or ground zones (to capture objects lingering in an area). Users can define the area of interest and specify the duration an object needs to be in a ground zone to trigger a recording.

Recording Rules: Video Analytics rules offer more advanced options, including the ability to trigger recordings based on the type of object (person, vehicle, animal) detected. Existing VMD recording rules must be deleted before setting up a Video Analytics rule. Users can create up to three Video Analytics rules per camera, and ground zones and tripwires can overlap.

Best Practices:

• For accuracy, avoid drawing tripwires or ground zones over objects that move on their own (like trees or shrubs) and only draw the rule where the feet or wheels of the object should cross.
• It's recommended to observe the rule's detections and then adjust the Minimum Object Detection Size or recalibrate the camera if needed.
• Proper camera placement (height, angle, distance) is crucial for Video Analytics to function effectively.

Additional Features: Video Analytics enables enhanced notifications with thumbnail images of the detected objects. It can also be used to control lights based on detected events. Features like Perimeter Guard™ (alert sounds and flashing LED) and Package Alerts for specific doorbells rely on Video Analytics.

Additional Content on Video Analytics:

• What Are Alarm.com Video Analytics?
• How Do I Set Up Video Analytics for Alarm.com?

Summary of Key Differences:

Detection Method: VMD detects motion based on pixel changes within a specified area of the camera's field of view, while Video Analytics constantly scans the camera's view, identifying and classifying objects using cutting-edge technology and machine learning.

Precision: Video Analytics offers more precise detection and reduces false triggers by accurately identifying specific types of objects.

Rule Capabilities: Video Analytics allows for more sophisticated rules based on object type and behavior (e.g., loitering, crossing a line), unlike VMD which primarily reacts to general motion within a defined area.

Notifications: Video Analytics provides more comprehensive notifications with thumbnail images and object classification.

Summary:

In essence, Video Analytics is a more advanced and intelligent method of motion detection when compared to VMD. While VMD can be effective for basic motion detection on older systems, Video Analytics offers greater accuracy, more options, and better control over what triggers recordings and notifications.

Compatible Cameras:

Cameras That Support VMD Only:

If you are moving into a home or business with existing cameras and plan to activate new Alarm.com service after February 2023, please note that the following cameras support only Video Motion Detection (VMD), not Video Analytics. With these specific models and possibly other older cameras not shown here, you will only be able to view live video remotely; creating recording rules is not possible.

Camera Name	Image
ADC-VS1 Analog to IP Converter 1-Channel
ADC-VS420 Analog to IP Converter 4-Channel
ADC-V510 Fixed Lens Indoor Camera
ADC-VS520IR Fixed Lens Indoor Camera w/IR
ADC-V610PT Indoor Pan/Tilt Camera
ADC-V620PT Indoor Pan-Tilt Camera
ADC-V700X Weatherproof Day/Night IP Camera
ADC-V720 Outdoor PoE Night Vision Bullet Camera
ADC-V820 Indoor PoE Dome Camera
ADC-V521IR Indoor Fixed IR Camera
ADC-V721W Wireless Outdoor IP Night Vision Camera
ADC-V821 Outdoor PoE Night Vision Dome Camera
2GIG HD100 Indoor 720P Camera w/ Night Vision

Cameras That Support Video Analytics:

See the table below for cameras compatible with Alarm.com's advanced Video Analytics. Given its superior accuracy for detecting threats and gathering information about your property compared to Video Motion Detection, we strongly recommend upgrading if your cameras currently only support VMD. Start planning your upgrade today, you'll be glad you did!

Camera Name	Image
ADC-V515 Indoor 1080P Camera
ADC-V522IR Indoor 1080P Night Vision Camera
ADC-V523/ADC-V523X Indoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision
ADC-V622 Indoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision and 2-Way Audio
ADC-V722W Outdoor 1080P WIFI Camera with Night Vision
ADC-V723/ADC-V723X Outdoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision and High Dynamic Range (HDR)
ADC-V724/ADC-V724X Outdoor 1080P WIFI Camera with 2-Way Audio
ADC-VC726 Outdoor 1080P PoE-Capable Mini Bullet Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC727P Indoor/Outdoor 1080P PoE-Capable Mini Bullet Camera
ADC-VC728PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal Bullet Camera
ADC-V729 / ADC-V729AC / ADC-VC729P Outdoor 4MP Floodlight Camera ADC-V729 - Powered by 24V DC ADC-V729AC - Powered by 100V - 240V AC ADC-VC729P - PoE-Capable or 24V DC Powered
ADC-VC736 Outdoor 1080P Large Bullet PoE-Capable Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC826
ADC-VC827P Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Dome Camera
ADC-VC836 Outdoor 1080P Turret Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC838PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal PoE-Capable Turret Camera
ADC-VC847PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal PoE-Capable Dome Camera
ADC-VDB750 Full HD Wired Video Doorbell Camera
ADC-VDB755P Full HD PoE-Capable Video Doorbell Camera
ADC-VDB770 Full HD Wired Video Doorbell Camera with High Dynamic Range (HDR)
ADC-VDB780B Full HD 2MP Battery-Powered (Rechargeable) Video Doorbell Camera Also available in a bundle with the ADC-W115C Wireless Chime Module. Some installations will require the ADC-W115C to use this video doorbell camera.
If a cameras in the above list has no link it's because it is discontinued and no longer offered by Alarm Grid.

Alarm Grid is excited to offer the new Alarm.com ADC-SVR210 Stream Video Recorder! This new recorder offers local video storage, with a 1TB or 2TB hard drive. It seamlessly integrates with most existing Alarm.com cameras and boasts wide compatibility with ONVIF Profile S and VAPIX cameras.

The ADC-SVR210 Stream Video Recorder measures 7.7" W x 7.9" D x 5.5" H (14.5cm x 20cm x 13.9cm):

Alarm.com Stream Video Recorders (SVR) offer customers the option of recording video 24/7. Without an SVR, Alarm.com limits the number of clip uploads available to each video customer per month. This allows Alarm.com to ramp up their cloud storage capabilities in line with the number of current and expected active video accounts. Without clip limits, this would be more difficult to do.

Some video customers may need access to more clips, or extended video playback. There are expansion packs available for customers who exceed their monthly clip limit due to unusual or unforeseen circumstances. But for others, the need for more clips may be the rule, not the exception.

For those customers the ADC-SVR210 offers a tidy solution. With the ADC-SVR210 video is stored locally on the recorder's hard drive. The ADC-SVR210 is available with either a 1TB or a 2TB hard drive. A monitor can be connected directly to the SVR and video can be viewed from it at any time.

Not all cameras are compatible with the ADC-SVR210, but most are. Below is a list of the recommended Alarm.com wired ethernet cameras. Many of these support Power Over Ethernet (POE) and are part of the Alarm.com commercial camera lineup:

• VC727P
• VC827P
• VC847PF
• VC728PF
• VC838PF
• VC725
• VC726
• VC736
• VC825
• VC826
• VC836
• VDB755P
• VC729P

In addition, the following Indoor and Indoor/Outdoor WIFI cameras can be used with the ADC-SVR210. If a camera has no link, it indicates that it has been discontinued:

• ADC-V515
• ADC-V523/ADC-V523X
• ADC-V723/723X
• ADC-V724/724X
• ADC-V521IR
• ADC-V522IR
• ADC-V721W
• ADC-V722W

Unlike previous Alarm.com stream video recorders, the ADC-SVR210 can integrate with third-party cameras that support ONVIF Profile S or VAPIX. ONVIF Profile S is a standardized protocol designed for IP-based video systems. VAPIX is an API (Application Programming Interface) for Axis Communications' cameras. The VAPIX API allows Axis cameras to integrate with a wide range of products on different platforms.

ONVIF stands for Open Network Video Interface Forum. This is a security standard that ensures devices from different manufacturers can work together. They use profiles to categorize products. Each profile has a fixed set of features and specifications that every compatible device must adhere to. A device can support more than one profile. You can see the specifications for Profile S here.

Per the ONVIF website, "ONVIF is a leading and well-recognized industry forum whose mission is to provide and promote standardized interfaces for effective interoperability of IP-based physical security products." The forum includes many equipment manufacturers. Some member companies you may recognize include Axis Communications, Honeywell, HIKVision, Canon, Bosch, Intel, Johnson Controls, and more.

A Profile S device (camera) sends video information over an IP-based network. A Profile S Client, like the ADC-SVR210, can configure, request, and control video streaming over an IP network provided by Profile S devices. It is the ADC-SVR210 software that allows it to comply with ONVIF Profile S. This improved compatibility offers greater flexibility when choosing security cameras for your system.

Specifications For The ADC-SVR210:

• Recording Channels: Up to 8 cameras
• Video Input: 8 channels, 70 Mbps total
• Local Display Capabilities: Live view, recorded playback, clip export
• Local Display Output: 1 x HDMI
• Local Clip Export: Available (1 x USB 3.0 and 2 x USB 2.0)
• Internal Storage: (1) 3.5" HDD, SATA 6 Gb/s, (2TB total)
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 7.7 x 7.9 x 5.5" (14.5 x 20 x 13.9 cm)
• Operating Temperature: 32℉ - 104℉ (0℃ - +40℃)
• Compliance: FCC Class A, IC, CE Class B, UL Listed, NDAA
• Included Accessories: AC power adapter, Ethernet cable, QR card with code that links to this digital installation guide
• Requirements: Power: Standard Electrical Outlet ; Network: Ethernet connection to broadband internet
• PoE Power Adapter: 12V DC
• Max Weight: 2.55 lbs (1.16 kg) with 3.5", 2TB HDD installed

Alarm.com now offers a new burglary deterrence feature available from some of its cameras. Alarm Triggered Warning Sounds, once configured, will cause selected cameras to emit a siren when an alarm is triggered. This feature can be activated based on sensors, partitions, or the entire panel.

One crucial note about this feature is that it is only compatible with non-doorbell Alarm.com cameras that support the two-way audio feature. A full list of compatible cameras, with links, is available in our FAQ that walks you through setting up this new deterrence feature.

The requirements for this feature are fairly simple:

• A security service package with Panel/InApp panics enabled by your alarm dealer.
• A video service package with the Audio for Non-doorbell Cameras add-on enabled by your alarm dealer.
• At least one camera compatible with the MTWS feature.
• An IQ4 Panel (IQ Panel 4, IQ4 Hub, or IQ4 NS). You can't do this with a video-only account.

See? Easy peasy! If you have an Alarm.com camera that supports two-way audio, and it's not a doorbell camera, then it likely supports this feature. On general principle, be sure your camera is updated to the latest firmware. For most cameras, the minimum firmware to support this feature is Firmware Version 0.6.7.852+. The exception is the ADC-V515, which requires Firmware Version 0.0.5.476+.

This feature is easy to set up. Just use the Smart Rules Builder through either the customer website or the Alarm.com app available from Google or Apple. Once you log into your account it takes about two minutes to create the rule needed to utilize this feature.

The Alarm Triggered Warning Sounds (ATWS) feature works hand-in-hand with the Manually Triggered Warning Sounds (MTWS) feature. If you have any MTWS capable cameras, then you know you will be able to configure the ATWS feature and vice versa. Manually Triggered Warning Sounds are not automated. Instead, a user must manually trigger the sound while logged into either the app or the website. You can check out how to use MTWS here.

When you manually trigger a warning sound from one or more cameras, the sound duration is 30 seconds, unless you manually turn the warning sound off sooner. When the warning sound is alarm triggered, the duration is five (5) minutes, or until the alarm is canceled by a user disarming the system where the alarm occurred.

Scenario 1: Manual Trigger

You're away from your home or business. You receive an alert that motion has been detected by one of your cameras. You log into the app and, pulling up the live view for your camera see a person or animal in an area of your property where they don't belong. While you're viewing the live video, and assuming this is a compatible camera, you can choose to trigger a warning sound that will hopefully scare the person or animal away. In this scenario the Manually Triggered Warning Sound can be used to great effect.

Scenario 2: Alarm Trigger

You're at home, and your system is armed in the Home mode. While you're asleep an intruder attempts to enter your home by breaking a first floor window. They may have triggered an alert from one of your outdoor cameras, but you slept through it. The window they're attempting to enter through has a glass break detector associated with it and this detector is active when the system is armed in Home mode. The intruder breaks the window, but the alarm goes off. This causes not only the alarm panel, but also your outdoor cameras to begin sounding a siren. The would-be intruder hears the sirens and leaves, preventing an actual break in.

One limitation of all-in-one panels is that they aren't high-current siren friendly. That's not to say that you can't add one of these sirens, but it takes some work and it can get expensive. Not to mention, where do you put the equipment for it? By allowing the cameras that offer siren sounds to use those sirens in an alarm situation you're adding extra sirens to the system at no additional cost, assuming you planned to have compatible cameras anyway. In my opinion, this is a great new feature. It's also an example of how Alarm.com continues to add value to their products without requiring additional investment.

Alarm.com has made some nice feature enhancements for video customers. They will now have support for some 3rd party cameras. They've bumped up the maximum number of supported cameras to 64. They have introduced clip limit Auto-Restart. And perimeter guard is now available for ADC-VDB770 customers.

Alarm.com offers a wide range of video products. These include many different cameras and video doorbells. They continuously work on strengthening their video portfolio. Alarm.com, besides continuing to release new products, also focuses on improving current offerings. This announcement is proof of their dedication to their video customers.

Alarm.com has announced it will now support some 3rd-party camera setups. This enhancement is available for business accounts only. They will now make it possible to integrate hardwired cameras that use ONVIF Profile S and VAPIX communication protocols, to allow for operation with the Pro Series CSVR (ADC-CSVR2000P, ADC-CSVR2008P, or ADC-CSVR2016P). Businesses with those current video setups do not need to replace their entire camera lineup in order to begin using the features of alarm.com. This allows customers to begin taking advantage of things such as live view, 24/7 recording, and the SVR timeline, all accessible via Alarm.com website or mobile app (available for iPhone and Android devices).

Alarm.com will also allow twenty-five (25) live video feeds on a single Live View tab. Now you can live stream on more cameras, all at once. Making it easier to monitor or follow desired activity.

They have also bumped up the total number of cameras per location. Previously, it was 40 cameras max. Alarm.com will now allow a maximum of 64 cameras before requiring a second "location" to be set up. This enhancement is available for residential and commercial video services. Alarm Grid video customers still receive a max of eight (8) cameras per video package, but will no longer require the addition of a second location on their account for cameras 41-64.

Alarm.com still imposes a clip limit per service package. So, it is still important to set up your recording rules so that your cameras are only capturing the desired activity. For Alarm Grid Video customers, if you are surpassing your monthly limit every month, please contact us to discuss your options. For those customers who run into a "high" activity month from time to time, Alarm.com will auto-restart your recording rules on the first day of the following month. Previously, customers would have to log in on the first of the month to manually restart their recording rules. This update will only apply to cloud-saved clips. Clips will always continue to record on SVRs and onboard recording cameras.

Also, for customers with an ADC-VDB770, Alarm.com will now offer the Perimeter Guard feature. Perimeter Guard uses video analytics to detect people and then react with attention-grabbing audio alerts (for supported cameras) and blinking LED lights. The purpose is to alert unwanted guests and deter malicious activity. This has been available for some time on certain cameras, but will now be available on the ADC-VBD770 video doorbell. This feature is configured using the Customer Website or Customer app as part of the Video Analytics rules. There you choose your audio alert and LED options, for when the detection occurs.

Alarm.com has also updated their latest WIFI cameras to include manually-triggered warning sounds. Use this on-demand feature to deter potential intruders when you spot them in real-time. It can also be used after receiving a notification about unwanted activity. Access the desired camera from the customer website only, to manually activate warning sounds. This will sound an alert for thirty (30) seconds or until you manually turn it off. This feature is now available on ADC-V523, ADC-V523X, ADC-V724, ADC-V724X, ADC-VC727P, and ADC-VC728PF (LED only) cameras. This option is not offered on the mobile app at the time of this writing.

To round up our list of features and enhancements, there are improvements that will be coming to the Alarm.com mobile app. These are not yet available but will include bottom navigation for easier accessibility. The purpose is to provide a faster, more streamlined, and more intuitive experience for all. An all-new activity feed with video clips and grouped events will also be added. Alarm.com will also include more modern, easy-to-use controls that better utilize the entire mobile screen, with refreshed action sheets. They will also provide additional performance and visual enhancements to improve the overall app experience. This provides us with some cool stuff to look forward to.

Check out some of the new enhancements and let us know how you are enjoying them. Please feel free to comment below and share your experience.