Our Security Cameras
Analogue HD
We are currently upgrading existing CCTV systems, which are cabled with coaxial cable (traditional analogue wiring) with HD cameras as a good upgrade solution, which removes the added cost of re-cabling. Our CCTV supplier has a large range of high-quality HD-SDI cameras, recorders and accessories available. HD-SDI (High Definition Serial Digital Interface) unites the high-quality images of IP with the point-to-point configuration of analogue systems.
This technology is a great way to upgrade an existing analogue system to digital. (*subject to cable quality)
- Unlike IP, HD-SDI operates over the familiar closed circuit system, which eliminates any security threats that could compromise the systems and also the need for IT expertise to support and manage it. Similar to your HD TV at home, HD-SDI can offer impeccable picture quality for your CCTV system, giving 720p and 1080p resolution in real time (25fps). This broadcast quality does not have bandwidth issues since it is connected directly to the DVR from Point to Point.
- HD-SDI Digital Video Recorders generally allow remote access via a web browser or mobile phone device to enable the system to be monitored and controlled remotely if required.
IP Camera Overview
"IP" stands for Internet Protocol, which is the low-level programming language used to transmit data between computers in your home and the internet. This means that an IP camera is like a little computer that you connect to in order to access your video, and as such, you do not require a direct connection to a PC to operate it, meaning it can be placed anywhere within a network and accessed remotely at any time. These cameras use NVR (network video recorder), which in most cases is just software that runs on a computer or server as it doesn't need to convert analogue video to digital. The video footage that this captures can be stored on new or existing network RAID (redundant array of independent disks) drives as directed by the NVR software.
In contrast to an Analogue camera, an IP camera excels in capturing high-definition, megapixel images as captured data is digitised directly from the sensor, and because of their increased computing power, they can perform more advanced functions such as detecting motion to trigger devices recording or tampering and act on it by emailing, uploading or recording images or video to an internal storage card external storage device.
Analogue Vs IP Cameras:
Compatibility
Analogue: Analogue video has been a universal standard for several decades. Virtually any analogue CCTV camera can be plugged into any DVR, regardless of brand.
IP: Each time you add an IP camera, you have to make sure that the NVR supports that particular model. However, many IP camera producers now support a large variety of communication protocols.
Cost
Analogue - Analogue cameras and peripheral equipment are significantly lower in price than their IP counterparts but, in the long term, can be more expensive due to limits on the number of fixed cameras per DVR.
IP - While the actual purchase cost for an IP camera is more expensive, in many scenarios, it is more cost-effective in the long term. A single IP camera can do the job of several analogue cameras, and it is easier to expand in the future.
Quality
Analogue - Analogue CCD cameras perform well across a variety of lighting conditions and manage motion well. Analogue cameras transmit the video image to the DVR, uncompressed, where it can be viewed live with no latency pre-compression.
IP - IP cameras excel in capturing high definition, with the ability to zoom in. However, some IP cameras can introduce latency, which becomes an issue when an operator needs to track something live. For this reason, Gemini Security Solutions is very careful in choosing the manufacturers we use.
What Are The Benefits of Having CCTV?
Crime prevention:
One of the primary benefits of CCTV is its deterrent effect on criminal activity. The presence of visible cameras can discourage potential criminals from committing unlawful acts, such as theft, vandalism, or burglary.
Enhanced security:
CCTV provides real-time monitoring and recording of activities, enabling security personnel to respond quickly to any suspicious behaviour or security breaches, thus improving overall safety and security.
Evidence collection:
CCTV footage can serve as valuable evidence in investigations and legal proceedings. It can help identify suspects, clarify events, and support law enforcement or security personnel in resolving incidents.
Employee safety:
In workplaces, CCTV can contribute to employee safety by monitoring hazardous areas, detecting safety violations, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.