What is the Difference Between Analog and IP Cameras in a CCTV System?
When you are considering different security systems and potentially implementing surveillance cameras into your home or business, a big question is whether you want IP or analog cameras. Global Market Insights estimates that the IP camera market will be worth more than 20 billion by 2025.
With today’s technology both IP and analog systems can be viewed from a multitude of platforms including your pc, television, and through a network connection to your smartphone or tablet. The principal differences between the two systems are cost and video quality. Analog systems are less expensive, but the quality of the picture is limited to HD. IP systems, although more expensive, provide extremely high-quality video.
Analog Cameras
Analog cameras are what most people think of when thinking of a CCTV, aka closed-circuit television, system. Typically, an analog system was a camera or cameras connected to a VCR and every day or two the tape had to be changed. Over the years, analog became a bit more complex using multiplexers and multiple VCRs. In more recent years, analog to digital converters were introduced making analog cameras more sophisticated. In today’s world, analog cameras are very similar to digital IP cameras less the picture quality and the cost. Like IP, analog can be streamed, viewed remotely, and stored in the cloud.
IP Cameras
Internet Protocol cameras, also known as network cameras, are what most businesses today are choosing because of their flexibility. IP camera systems are a bit more complex to install than analog systems since each device has its own IP address on the network. In most cases, the CCTV system will reside on its own network because the CCTV system will demand more bandwidth than is typically available on a company’s internal network. Each camera is connected directly to the network and its video is sent through routers and switches to a location determined by the user. Some cameras may be viewed live, others recorded for later viewing, and others may be sent to a mobile phone or other device. All, or a select few, can be recorded and saved either on an internal or cloud-based server.
Wireless IP cameras can also be used for small applications, such as in-home use or just for a couple of cameras in your small business. These are easy to setup in your home or small business, but again be aware that too many wireless cameras will bog down your internet speed and you may not be able to view them live remotely if you do not have enough bandwidth. The typical home might have a doorbell camera, a back patio camera, and one or two others. Any more than that and your internet speeds may be compromised.
Considerations
Designing a CCTV system can be complex. Without the proper guidance, you may not get the system you want. There are a ton of CCTV systems available online, and out of the box options at your local retail store, but none of these can give you the quality and personal service you will get from a professional. Don’t waste your money on these cheap camera systems. Use a reputable firm that provides service, support, and warranties for their products and will help you design a system that works for you.
If you are interested in learning more about different security cameras and want to find out which one will suit your needs, give the FSS Technologies experts a call!
Explore Our Other Blogs
What Kind of Certifications Make Our Team Security Experts?
At FSS Technologies, we pride ourselves on the fact that we are not your typical fire safety or security company. When people call us, they don’t want a one-size-fits-all solution — they want our experts to design a system that perfectly fits their needs. We take “First in Security, First in Satisfaction” seriously to ensure every…
Can Motion Sensors be Triggered by Light?
Motion sensors are a common part of our world today. Wave your hand under the faucet and the water runs. Pull open the closet door and the light turns on. Walk near the doors of the grocery store and they automatically slide open. Motion sensors are devices that detect movement. They are common features in…
Has Chicago’s CCTV System Helped Lower Crime Rates?
It’s been 19 years since the Chicago Police Department (CPD) kicked off its pilot of Police Observation Devices (PODs). Today, there’s a network of 50,000+ surveillance cameras in use all over the city. But Are They Working? This simple question has no simple answer. According to the Chicago Police Department, in some areas, narcotic related crimes…
Cons of DIY Home Security Systems
When considering getting a home security system, some people might assume they can set up a fully functioning system themselves. The reality is that DIY systems come with some significant drawbacks. Here are some of the things to consider before you decide to take on this project yourself. Not Professionally Installed The importance of having…
Best Security System Setups for Senior Citizens
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90% of senior citizens want to stay in their homes as they age even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Unfortunately, criminals often target senior citizens as victims. Thieves assume older people will not be able…
What is the Difference Between Analog and IP Cameras in a CCTV System?
When you are considering different security systems and potentially implementing surveillance cameras into your home or business, a big question is whether you want IP or analog cameras. Global Market Insights estimates that the IP camera market will be worth more than 20 billion by 2025. With today’s technology both IP and analog systems can be viewed…
Security Cameras Are Not Created Equal
The Difference in Security Cameras Cameras are one of the most critical components in your security arsenal, and not all security cameras are the same. Why you ask? Consider these differences: Various types and sizes of cameras Indoor vs. outdoor cameras Cameras that are easy to camouflage Cameras that provide high-quality video footage Wired cameras vs. wireless…
Avigilon Alta: The Industry’s Leader in Commercial Access Control
With the rise in popularity of hybrid workspaces and flexible scheduling, more business owners are turning to access control systems to secure their investments. Not only are access control systems the latest standard for commercial security, but FSS Technologies is a proud partner with Avigilon Alta, the leading access control system manufacturer. Why Avigilon Alta?…
Fire Systems for Commercial Properties
Commercial property management companies have portfolios varying in scale and specialty. Still, they all share the standard responsibility of understanding and implementing fire safety measures for their operations. Fires pose a significant but avoidable threat to your properties, occupants, and sources of revenue. While not all fires can be prevented, some can cause catastrophic damage…
Where Should Security Cameras Be Installed in a Business?
Security camera placement in a business needs to be strategically decided based on several important factors. Areas that store valuables, have high foot traffic, and enable access to your building should be some of the essential locations. Learn more about what kinds of security cameras you can use and where they should be installed in…