If you have CCTV cameras on your business premises are you aware of whether they are IP or analogue? And why does this matter?
In this blog we’ll show you why IP CCTV provides a superior security option for your premises whether that’s a large shopping centre, a haulage depot, an office building or a factory.
How do you know if you have got analogue cameras?
There are a few ways to determine if you have analogue CCTV cameras:
- Look at the camera itself.
Analogue cameras typically have BNC connectors (chunky metal connectors attached to wires) on the back that are used to transmit video signals. They may also have separate power connectors.
- Check your recording equipment
Analogue cameras require a DVR (digital video recorder) to record and store footage. If you have a DVR connected to your cameras, it is likely that you have analogue cameras. IP cameras, on the other hand, can be connected to an NVR (network video recorder) or a software-based recorder.
- Check the quality of the footage
Analogue cameras typically have lower resolution and poorer image quality than IP cameras. If you notice that your footage is blurry or pixelated, it may be an indication that you have analogue cameras.
- Consult with a security professional
If you’re still unsure, you can consult with a security professional, like JKE, or a CCTV installer. They can inspect your cameras and recording equipment and provide you with a definitive answer. That way you’ll know exactly what systems you have in place and whether they are good enough for the protection you need/
Why should you upgrade your analogue CCTV cameras to IP?
There are several reasons why upgrading from analogue CCTV cameras to IP cameras is beneficial.
The most important reasons include:
Higher resolution: If there are issues in your area or you need to have really good coverage from your CCTV then you should know that IP cameras offer much higher resolution than analogue cameras. This means that they can capture more detailed images and videos which makes it easier to identify people, objects, and events in the footage.
Remote access: Perhaps you operate across multiple sites or you want to provide your team with protection from tricky events. One of the major benefits that IP cameras have is that they can be accessed remotely from anywhere with an internet connection, which means that you can monitor your property or business from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Not in person.
Scalability: IP camera systems can be easily scaled up or down as your needs change. You can add or remove cameras as necessary, and you can also upgrade the system with new features and technologies as they become available.
Analytics: IP cameras can be integrated with advanced analytics software that can detect and alert you to suspicious behaviour or events. This can help you prevent theft, vandalism, and other types of crime. This could be useful if you have high value stock and you want to integrate footage with the stock control system you use.
Cost-effective: While IP cameras may have a higher upfront cost than analogue cameras, they can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their longer lifespan, lower maintenance costs, and better performance.
Should you upgrade?
Once you’ve understood whether you have analogue or IP cameras your next step it to decide whether you should upgrade your security system.
Upgrading from analogue CCTV cameras to IP cameras can provide you with better quality footage, greater flexibility, and improved security, making it a smart investment for businesses and property owners.
If you’d like to talk CCTV cameras for your site security drop us a message to marketing@jkesecurity.com or call us on 0800 2545645