Nitty-Gritty of IP Video Migration

Learn about essential technologies to step clients through the IP video upgrade process, be it baby steps, significant migration tactics or a complete forklift overhaul.

While the tectonic shift from analog to IP continues to steadily hasten in the security industry, companies of all sizes remain hesitant to make a head-long leap into a full networked video surveillance installation.

Why ditch legacy infrastructures that can still get the job done, many cost-conscious and budget-strapped customers resolve. Hence, the vast opportunity that exists for installing security contractors to create a migration path for customers and achieve the benefits of IP video as an alternative to forklift overhauls.

There are a number of migration paths available to upgrade a site from analog to IP. These solutions are providing end users with several network functionalities, including audio detection and video motion detection, remote pan/tilt/zoom (p/t/z) and Power over Ethernet (PoE). All the while user expectations are being met and exceeded for image quality, recording capabilities, reliability, fiscal requirements and other essential needs.

Let’s take a look at some of the fundamental technology being harnessed to provide end customers with multiple migration options, as well as some practical application examples by an integrator that specializes in this arena.

Hybrid NVRs Remain Mainstay of IP Migration Path

Hybrid NVR appliances have been on the market for a number of years and remain one of the most practical methods of migrating legacy systems to IP capabilities. At its core, a hybrid NVR eliminates the need for a separate video encoder. Video compression cards are built into the appliance, allowing standard coaxial cable cameras to be directly connected to it. The devices also accept IP video streams through network connections. The result is end users can maintain their existing analog cameras while seamlessly integrating new IP cameras into the system as their budget or needs dictate.

“This reduces installation time and end users save a significant amount on the cost of an overall system upgrade,” says Deborah Paterson, a channel marketing specialist with Honeywell Security Group. “Hybrid NVRs are also great for growing businesses because they are scalable. Adding more IP cameras to the system down the road is a quick and easy process.”

For many end users’ security needs, analog cameras are still highly effective and can be maintained in locations considered less critical. By utilizing a mix of IP and analog, end users save valuable network bandwidth space and costs. “Plus, as a single-box solution they do not require additional product components to set up, install and function,” Paterson adds.

As an example of available performance features, Honeywell’s recently introduced hybrid NVR supports simultaneous recording and live monitoring for up to 32 cameras. End users can access the system remotely using a Web browser client or a mobile app.

In order to provide customers with hybrid NVRs and other analog-to-IP wares, security dealers will need to understand basic network design capabilities including Ethernet and cable requirements. Dealers should also have an understanding of how to effectively communicate NVR integration requirements when interfacing with the customer’s IT department staff.

“To gain respect from customers, it is recommended that dealers offering these solutions invest in an industry recognized certification training program,” Paterson advises.

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About the Author

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Although Bosch’s name is quite familiar to those in the security industry, his previous experience has been in daily newspaper journalism. Prior to joining SECURITY SALES & INTEGRATION in 2006, he spent 15 years with the Los Angeles Times, where he performed a wide assortment of editorial responsibilities, including feature and metro department assignments as well as content producing for latimes.com. Bosch is a graduate of California State University, Fresno with a degree in Mass Communication & Journalism. In 2007, he successfully completed the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association’s National Training School coursework to become a Certified Level I Alarm Technician.

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