Convert To IP Cameras – Do or Dont?
Hey everyone, Joe here, and today SCK wants to address a question we get asked quite a bit which is: “Should I Convert to IP Cameras?” This is a really good question, and chances are if you’re here or asking this yourself that means you have a CCTV system installed of some kind at the location in question. We’d also bet that your recorder isn’t an NVR- a network video recorder, but rather a DVR- a Digital Video Recorder. Likely you have a few Coaxile cameras connected to your recorder as well. This is where most people are at when they are wondering if they should convert to IP cameras. It’s important to realize that any technological conversation is going to incur costs and that you’ll need to weigh some pros and cons against these costs. Only then would you be able to truly determine what’s right for you. However, we have some information about how it could be beneficial to cover to IP cameras. This might help you make a more informed choice as to whether or not this type to upgrade is right for you, or even really an upgrade at all!
Coax cameras and DVR technology have actually come a long way and are surprisingly still very relevant. You might want to take a look at the model number and manufacturer of the equipment you have at the location in question. If you already know the specifications of this equipment, it’s going to be helpful in comparing your options. If not, this model and manufacturer info on your recorder and cameras will give you insight into some key features. Try and take note of the following information:
- How many Cameras can the recorder work with
- What is the maximum resolution the recorder can work with?
- What is the maximum resolution of the cameras you have right now?
- How old is your current DVR? Is it a newer model within the last 2 Years?
- How much footage are you getting (in time or days) versus how much do you need or want?
- To add to the point above, how much HDD Space can your DVR handle.
- How accessible would the location be for running new cabling?
- Will you need to hire an installer, or are you a CCTV pro?
- Do you have basic computer networking skills, or have an IT person that can perform these tasks?
There are probably a million other questions you could ask and answer to help you decide if you should Convert to IP Cameras. Let us go over what we have listed here to give you a good idea of what might work for you. Always remember to contact one of our Sales Pro’s if you’re looking to upgrade before your purchase. Our representatives can help you determine the products that can work with your existing equipment should an option be available, and offer compatibility guarantees.
The First 4 items on that list are somewhat related and a big factor in making the choice to convert to Ip cameras. You don’t want to lose coverage areas, so you’d need to make sure it’s within your budget to purchase a system that has at least close to as many cameras as you currently have. While we offer the best prices out there, generally IP cameras are more expensive than their coax counterparts. Additionally, if you’re looking to upgrade resolutions you need to know the maximum capabilities of your current cameras and recorder. It might not be very wise to shell out a large amount of money to cover IP cameras if you end up with exactly the same visual quality and the same or fewer cameras. Along with all of this, the age of your recorder is also important. Many newer DVRs produced within the last several years are able to utilize IP cameras. If you only need to cover a smaller area or upgrade a few key spots, you might not have to upend your current installation to add a few cameras.
Older recorders hold less hard drive space, but might get the same amount of footage as a newer recorder, recording at a higher resolution that has more HDD space. The image quality, framerate you need, and amount of footage in days you require should be information you give to a sales sport so they can help you determine if it will be worth it to convert to IP. If you are doing a full conversion, you’ll likely also need to pay for an installer and for cabling to run. Make sure your location is ready for the downtime this might result in. Since IP cameras use the same computer networking protocols and systems as any network device such as a PC, you’ll want to ensure you have a PC on-site, and someone who is familiar with managing a computer network to help set up system configuration.
Lastly, IP cameras and Recorders called NVRs have the most advanced features available on CCTV systems today. If any of the following interest you, you might be a good candidate for IP cameras:
- AI Enhanced Permiter protection
- Human and Vehicle Detection
- Facial Capture and Recognition
- Thermal
- Active Deterrence
- License Plate Detection, Recognition, and Logging
- Dynamic control on a per camera basis.
IP cameras are definitely an amazing choice for those looking to have access to the most cutting-edge CCTV tech and are a no-brainer if you’re coming from a position where you absolutely need an entirely new CCTV system. However, it’s worth considering other options if you have a semi-modern, well-functioning COAX system currently installed. Again, always call in for advice from the leading industry pros who can help you determine the best course of action.
Thanks for joining us today as we talked about when its a good idea to convert to IP cameras. For any questions on product compatibility, availability or any other information don’t hesitate to give our Sales Pro’s a call at 561-288-5258 . Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more Tutorials and CCTV info. Until Next time, Stay Safe!
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