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Implementing i-Catcher

Learn how to implement an i-Catcher system, from single camera residential to multi-camera - multi-site.

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Find out about suitable equipment for use with i-Catcher, from cameras to lighting, and more.

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i-Catcher & Home Automation

Controlling devices and access with i-Catcher

i-Catcher Console 4.0 includes a full-featured device control and automation system that supports a wide variety of control systems. With the software it is possible to associate input changes with actions, and alerts with device control. An example of this is to turn on a light when motion is detected on a camera.

X10 Appliance Controller

Supported systems

i-Catcher Console supports a number of commonly used access and device control/sensor systems:

Where available, i-Catcher will allow access to all control outputs and sensor inputs. Access control systems are treated as output devices for setting door open/lock states, and as input sensors for reading identified access, door override (e.g. keypad, RFID keyfob) and door force states.

ADAM I/O Controller

I/O Control

Through suitable control devices (e.g. the ADAM I/O controllers and Axis devices), i-Catcher can interface to more complex electronic systems. I/O Port devices allow i-Catcher to set the state of a signal line, which can be interpreted as required by any connected system. We use an Axis 241Q with a Velleman relay board to control our lights and fan setup. We have also constructed a 4-way remote controllable power strip using an ethernet-over-power device and an ADAM I/O block.

Sensor Inputs & Reactions

i-Catcher Console can respond to sensor inputs in a number of ways. A simple on/off electronic sensor can be used to instigate a series of actions. Similarly, analogue sensors (such as the Digi sensors) can be used to start a chain of actions when their value goes above or below a set threshold. An example would be to turn on a heater when the temperature drops below an acceptable level.

i-Catcher can perform any combination of the following actions in response to a sensor input:

  • Set an output device to a particular state. This includes locking doors, switching lights on or off, or other complex functions via a suitable I/O device.
  • Start recording on a feed for a set duration, regardless of motion being detected on that feed.
  • Generate an e-mail or SMS alert
  • Move a PTZ camera to a preset position
It is also possible to include the current sensor state as a text overlay on any feed.

Device Control Triggers

A number of different events within the i-Catcher Console system can trigger a device state change:

  • Motion detected on a particular feed
  • An object crossing a virtual trip wire when ICE motion detection is used
  • An input sensor changing state (see above)
Devices can also be manually changed from the i-Catcher Console menu bar or from the web interface if enabled. It is possible to configure user permissions to prevent unauthorised tampering.

Device control is also available via the i-Catcher Pro application for the iPhone and iPod Touch.