CCTV is one of the most powerful tools today yet the most dangerous weapon when it falls into the wrong hands. This is because access to it by unauthorized individuals can create massive security problems including robbery and terrorism.
We always advise customers and the general public to choose a reputable company, ideally recognized security service providers to install and maintain security systems. Certified CCTV technicians provide the exact solutions you or your company needs.
Before purchasing and installing or upgrading security camera equipment, understanding analog and IP is key.
Analog vs IP
Today, many security camera systems incorporate both analog and digital. But the difference between analog and IP security cameras is how video footage moves from the camera to the video recorder.
Analog cameras capture video and transfer it directly to a DVR through a coaxial cable. Then, the DVR converts the video from analog to digital signals, compresses the file, and stores it on a hard drive. Traditional CCTV cameras commonly use analog cameras.
On the other hand, IP cameras transfer video digitally over a network and connect to a recorder using an ethernet cable via a network switch. Because each IP camera has its own IP address, the cameras can be found and streamed over the network. Modern security systems incorporate IP cameras.
Why choose Analog over IP?
Analog cameras are ideal for businesses with pre-existing coax cabling and are easy to setup. Although analog cameras are available up to 8mp resolution, 3-5mp is more common. However, analog cameras can cost less than IP cameras. Three main advantages of analog cameras include:
- Simple setup: Analog cameras plug directly into the DVR with coaxial cable and require less programming.
- Lower bandwidth: Because analog cameras transmit video files to the DVR over coaxial cable, transmission takes less bandwidth, putting less pressure on the network.
- Lower cost: Simple technology means analog security cameras cost less than similar IP security cameras.
Though analog cameras require less programming, they need more cabling for both the power supply and the DVR. As well, they have a maximum resolution, which impacts zooming. Analog also has limited throughput. Therefore, the higher the camera resolution, the lower the cameras can be used before compromising bandwidth. Overall, analog cameras are more suitable for smaller, simpler surveillance setups.
Why choose IP over Analog?
If simple surveillance is not enough, IP cameras are the better choice because they offer resolution up to 30 MP (7K). As technology advances, more options and features are available, including multiple users and department access. Companies needing broader site coverage, like parking lots and construction sites, are ideal for IP cameras. Three main advantages of IP cameras include:
- Requires less wiring: IP cameras are simpler to setup. They connect to an existing network with one cable that provides power, video, and data. Therefore, there is no need to invest in new cabling. And with power over Ethernet (PoE), a power outlet close to the camera is no longer needed.
- Flexible and scalable: IP cameras offer more expansion options because their cabling requirements are less complicated.
- Better video quality: IP cameras are available in high resolution, up to 30 MP or 7K, yielding better quality video. As well, many models offer digital and optical zoom and provide more usable and meaningful footage.
However, IP cameras tend to cost more and require more bandwidth for video transfer over a network. As well, many advanced IP cameras have better compression technology and can help keep bandwidth low. Although throughout remains a concern, bandwidth can be managed with a custom-built server and a video management system (VMS). Because of the high resolution and frame rates IP cameras provide, a larger hard drive for storage is strongly recommended.
Our proactive, reactive systems and accessories we provide to our customers especially in the African market are designed to cope with the weather conditions and withstand any harsh environmental conditions.
In our quest to build a long-lasting relationship with our customers we invest a lot of time in helping them select the right systems. We do this because we understand that each client and project is unique. This is why we have developed a robust assessment process to ensure maximum customer satisfaction.
