Integration with automation systems

MIP
1

Hi all

I have recently discovered xProtect and I am currently evaluating it from a couple of stsandpoints.

One thing that is at the top of the list is the ability to integrate the VMS with a HA system.

I see there is an API, but I dont think I need to go to that level. Basically all I need is the following

- send a message either via TCP or HTTP GET on say motion detection, or system alarms so the HA system can take approriate action (turn lights on to aid in cameras image quality)

- Receive a message on a particular port and do something based on the message. (e.g. alarm is triggered and a message is sent to tell the VMS to record all cameras)

What level of xProtect will give me this functionality. Go?, Essential, Express?

Thanks

Mick

2

Certainly this is supported, and you don’t even need the API (the free Milestone Software Development Kit).

All XProtect servers supports hardware events (Motion, tampering, crossline etc) and can act on these (throw i/o switches, raise alarms etc.) For receiving messages to external systems, we use Generic events, which is featured in the XProtect Express and upwards.

Much more on features on the Comparison Chart (http://www.milestonesys.com/Sharepoint/XProtectOverview/2014/Milestone%20XProtect%20Comparison%20Chart%20-%20August%205%202014.pdf)

3

I would like to modify the above slightly.

While XProtect can easily receive generic messages (raw IP packets with a user-defined content), and while event handling inside XProtect works like a charm, it is more difficult to send something out of XProtect.

I only know of the following ways of sending things out of XProtect:

  • SNMP traps
  • E-mails
  • SMS’s
  • galvanic outputs (via a supported I/O box or a camera with outputs)
  • program something yourself using the SDK (there is even a sample which demonstrates how to run a BAT script based on an event.

Hope this helps you a bit further. BTW, the SDK is supported by XProtect Express and above.

4

Thanks

I think the SDK is a little beyond me at the moment. I’ll keep trying though.

May I suggest that Milestone add a feature to send a generic message in future versions. This will allow better integration with Building Management Systems and IoT.