The communication language of ACTi cameras is very simple – it consists of clearly understandable text based commands. Since the receiver of the commands is usually the built-in web server within the camera, those texts are also called URL commands. By using URL commands it is possible to change the configuration of the camera, check the status of any of the services or alarms, request video or snapshots, and much more.

While the most common usage of URL commands is ACTi camera integration with video management systems, the simplicity of the commands allows them to be used in variety of practical applications even for those who have no previous experience in text-based camera control.

The most frequently used applications that can take a good use of URL commands are related to event management – by using the URL commands within the Event Handler system of the camera it is possible to change the system or video settings or change the PTZ position of the camera itself or any other ACTi camera upon triggered events.

That’s not all – it is even possible to integrate ACTi cameras with web applications by using URL commands. You could easily create a web page by which you can display the list of camera events, snapshots or live video from the camera or change the camera settings by pressing the buttons on your custom made website.

Last, but not least – URL commands help save lots of camera installation time. Instead of repeating same configuration steps on multiple cameras, such as full-screen motion detection region setup, it is possible to take a good use of ACTi IP Utility 4 that allows configuration of any parameters on multiple devices at the same time by using URL commands.

The following chapters are divided into two main parts – the practical applications for the end user daily surveillance purpose and convenient installation tips for system integrators using URL commands.