What’s the difference between analogue CCTV and IP Cameras?
There are a variety of CCTV solutions available which can be installed to protect both your home or business 24/7 to help deter crime. If you are thinking about installing a CCTV system, you will have the option of an IP or an analogue HD video format. In today’s blog, we will help explain the difference between the two systems to discover which is the best option for you.
Analogue CCTV camera
An analogue HD CCTV system is a traditional camera system which records images to a digital video format. To view the video, a DVR (digital video recorder) must be connected to a monitor which will convert the video from analogue to digital signals which can then be stored on a hard drive.
IP CCTV camera
An internet protocol camera, commonly referred to as an IP camera, is a digital video camera which transmits and receives data over a network or the internet. The IP camera connects to a network in the exact same way as any other standard network device such as a laptop or switch..
What’s the difference between an analogue and IP CCTV camera?
Unlike a few years ago where CCTV systems have poor video resolution, IP cameras now offer 4K HD quality that can outmatch any analogue HD camera solution at the same resolution. The higher pixel resolution detail of the IP camera means you can zoom into the video itself, revealing a higher level of detail of a particular scene/event – or even a person’s face.
Analogue on the other hand uses NTSC or PAL analogue video standard. There is a wider variety of analogue camera designs, so you may find what you’re looking for with all the features at a slightly lower cost but it is worth noting that the image quality will not match that of an IP CCTV system, and the zoom-in feature will be of noticeably lower quality.
To summarise, the initial cost of an IP CCTV camera system will be higher due to the increase in hard drive size and the processing power of the Network Video Recorder. It’s worthwhile to note that these systems are neater and cleaner to install and are also flexible and scalable than traditional analogue HD systems.
Whether you’re looking for a domestic or commercial CCTV installation, IP cameras may be the way to go for you if you’re looking for a modern picture-quality solution.
Bellmont Security Systems offers CCTV maintenance and CCTV installation services in Basildon and the surrounding Essex area. Our team will work closely with you to ensure your security needs are met within your budget while fully protecting your premises. Get in touch with our security experts today to learn more.