Choosing The Right Video Surveillance System Can Be A Challenge



by Katelyn Valenzuela


You can find so much information online about analog security cameras versus networked cameras. There are fans of analog because of it's longevity and lower cost. Advocates of IP technology will tout the many benefits IP has over analog. But a hybrid solution, a combination of digital and analog components can offer the best of both worlds.

Analog Security Camera Systems - In Use for Decades Quite simply, analog security cameras are not as expensive as IP cameras. Analog technology tends to excel in low light environments more so than IP. Unlike analog cameras, IP camera systems cannot always be made up of different camera brands. Analog CCTV coaxial cable is more expensive than the Cat5/6 cable used in an IP surveillance solution. The cost for a larger analog surveillance solution can exceed the cost for a networked security camera system.

IP Surveillance - Greater Functionality IP surveillance cameras are typically more expensive than analog security cameras, but there's no mistaking the higher image quality that an IP camera provides along with a host of other benefits. Built-in features such as video motion detection, audio tampering alarm and active tampering alarm enable the cameras to analyze and automatically respond to events and send alarm notifications to users anywhere. Technologies such as Wi-Fi and PoE (Power over Ethernet) provide flexibility not possible with analog cameras. PoE allows for IP cameras to be placed without having to worry about running a separate power line. Power for the camera is provided by the Ethernet cable. Wireless security cameras are available for areas where running cables is not possible.

Combine Analog and Digital You can have all the technology features that IP cameras bring without having to remove your analog security cameras. A video encoder changes analog to digital so the security camera images can be viewed over an IP network. Hybrid security camera systems will combine the features and benefits of analog and IP camera solutions.

Maintain Your Inventment in Your Analog Surveillance System A video encoder makes it easy to combine the features of traditional CCTV and IP camera systems. Protect your investment while gaining additional functionality and flexibilty that comes from networked security camera solutions.

You should consider getting a free site survey to help you decide which video surveillance solution is the best for you.




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