Adding new security cameras with higher resolution to an existing video surveillance system seems like a wonderful idea. Why would you not want to capture clearer images? Unfortunately, its not as easy of an upgrade as one might imagine.
First, compatibility with your existing video management system and network infrastructure needs to be evaluated. We consider these key factors:
Next, and this is the big one, do you have enough space on your storage appliance(s) without decreasing storage retention time?
Increased image resolution often comes with increased bandwidth. Increased bandwidth means more storage consumption. And without a proper calculation, you could end up recording video for fewer days for every camera on the system. A properly calculated estimation of storage space required needs to be performed to ensure ample hard drive space is available for the new or replaced cameras. Caution should be taken if a security integrator sales person or manufacturer representative is estimating the storage required to add new or replace old cameras with new technology. One might ask why this could be the case... In a competitive environment where low price often wins, it's a balancing act that sales representatives must perform to keep from overpricing the project and losing to a competitor or discovering a budget to project cost mismatch. As a result, storage estimations are often low due to conservative bandwidth estimations.
For an unbiased bandwidth and storage calculations, be sure to contact a third-party consulting firm like Theseus Professional Services.
Contact us today for an independent technology upgrade evaluation >>