Posted: 7/23/2010 10:24:21 AM EDT
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I'm installing a security and video surveillance system in a building. I'm looking at using either Acti cameras with Acti NVR software or buying a "canned" camera/DVR system from Lorex, Clover, etc. For example: Clover
The Acti setup is expensive (530/ camera x 8 + PC + 1200+ for the software) and seems difficult to setup. The "canned" setups appear to be easier for the non-expert to setup. I also will leaving the system in the hands of folks who are NOT computer experts in any way. Is there any experience, insight or suggestions anyone can provide? Cost is not a significant consideration. We need 8 cameras and DVR recording. Hardware motion detection would be a plus, but not a necessity. Ease of setup would be great for me, but ease of use by the end user is a must. Thanks in advance... |
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These are 2 different animals...
If your going with the "canned" system, try Super Circuits as they may have comparable equipment for better pricing. Issues with these types of system tends to be poor video compression, poor resolution cameras and short pre made cables that are either coax or UTP, not IP capable. As for the ACTi, yes it is more expensive, but it's by far a much better system. IP and network based which allows for high bandwidth mega pixel cameras and larger storage devices. If you can set up a home network, you can set up a NVR system. Basically a master server, storage device, network switches and the cameras. Remember IP will only work out to 333 feet, any further will need additional switches fibered back to the main switch. Good luck! |
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Quoted: TheGrayMan knows his stuff...Quoted: IB4TGM What's the GM? http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=10&f=17&t=624112 |
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I've had good results with these; ArcVision Technologies
I've installed these in multiple commercial locations around he state, and haven't had any issues with reliability or capability. With any system, get a decent master power supply for the cameras, and a quality UPS. (surge protection + battery backup for those unfamiliar with an Uninteruptable Power Supply) http://www.arcvisioncctv.com/index.php I've done a ton of GeoVision systems for a particular account, they are really nice systems, but a little more spendy IIRC. Edit- You didn't state the specifics of the application - what are the fields of view, how far off are you trying to view, all inside, outside or mixed? For most residential (and smaller commercial) applications, I would look for the smallest dome cameras you can use, and "bullet" style cameras outside. People tend not to notice small cameras, even when they are in plain view. Most applications don't need large, obvious "Wal-Mart parking lot" outdoor housings, or Pan/Tilt/Zoom features. I don't sell the stuff, I'm just the guy who has to make it all work... 
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Analog or IP cameras? Well, the ACTi cameras are IP with PoE which would be handy, but not necessary really. If the DVR system can be remotely accessed (which most of them seem to be), this would suffice. Any quality DVR system should be remote accessable, you just need to connect it to a network. Analog cameras are "good enough" for a lot of applications - do you need the higher resolution provided by mega-pixel IP cameras? Sometimes it might mean the difference between ID'ing a model of vehicle, compared to getting the plate #... |
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I think I do need the resolution of the IP cameras. It will be going into a government office and the goal would be to record fraudulent activity (customer and operator) during the day and break-ins at night. So detail would be important. I am looking at the ACTi ACM-1511 cameras. I'll have 8 cameras working a (relatively) small area. Less than 50' x 100'.
Thanks for all your replies. I've been reading through the unbelievably comprehensive thread by theGrayMan that someone linked. Thanks. |