Are you thinking about getting a new CCTV system or upgrading your old one but you’re not sure what to get? Let us help.
We install all types of cameras in our CCTV systems and it’s fair to say that it’s not a “one size fits all” solution. Different equipment is suited for different properties. Cameras can be required for all sorts of reasons. Watching a car over a driveway, keeping an eye on vulnerable areas around a property such as a garage or in a commercial setting for theft are the most obvious examples.
However they can be used for other more personal reasons too. We’ve installed for elderly clients where their children want to make sure they aren’t getting exploited by door to door salesmen. Inside the property we’ve had people wanting to keep an eye on sick pets. We’ve also ensured that home helps are coming/going at the times required.
You’ve maybe seen on some sales sites “IP CCTV” or maybe you’ve got an analogue system but are unsure if you need to change it to IP. But what does it actually mean?
The main difference between IP CCTV (Internet Protocol Closed Circuit Television) systems and analogue CCTV systems is the way they transmit and process video signals.
Analogue CCTV systems use analogue cameras to capture and transmit video signals to a digital video recorder (DVR), which converts the analogue signals into digital format for storage and playback. The cameras are connected to the DVR using coaxial cables, and the distance between the cameras and the DVR is limited by the length of the cables.
On the other hand, IP CCTV systems use digital cameras to capture and transmit video signals over an IP network. The cameras are connected to a network video recorder (NVR) using Ethernet cables. The distance between the cameras and the NVR can be much greater than with analogue systems, as they are not limited by cable length.
Another major difference between the two systems is the image quality. IP CCTV systems offer higher resolution and image quality compared to analogue CCTV systems. This is because IP cameras capture images in digital format, which can be compressed and transmitted over the network without losing quality. In contrast, analogue cameras capture images in analogue format, which must be converted into digital format for storage and transmission, leading to some loss of quality.
IP CCTV systems also offer advanced features such as remote access and management, analytics, and integration with other devices and systems. The cameras can be accessed and managed remotely using a web browser or mobile app. This allows users to view live and recorded video from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, IP cameras can incorporate advanced analytics such as facial recognition, object tracking and intrusion detection. This can be used to improve security and automate various aspects of the system.
How does it compare in cost?
IP tends to be a bit more expensive the analogue so if you’re looking for a simple system and you’re not fussy about all the bells and whistles, then analogue is a great system. It will give a great picture and record and save video in high resolution.
However if you’re looking to future proof as much as possible and want the extra features, then it’s a good idea to go straight for IP. That way you won’t have to change it in the future. There is a lot more choice in features and will last a long time without the need to upgrade.
Conclusion
While analogue CCTV systems may still be suitable for some applications, IP CCTV systems offer many advantages. This includes higher image quality, advanced features, and greater flexibility in terms of distance and network connectivity.
For more information on UK Govt recommended standards on IP CCTV, look here.
If in doubt, get in touch and we can pop out and offer some advice and a quote!