Analog CCTV is the most established, and continues to be the most commonly used, security technology – specifically for smaller camera count, single-site applications. Analog systems include one or more analog cameras that transmit video via coaxial cabling, which connects directly to an analog DVR (digital video recorder). The DVR uses video capture cards to convert the analog signal to a digital signal for storage and network transmission.
Traditional analog systems offer resolutions ranging from CIF (352 x 240 pixels) to D1 (720 x 480 pixels), and recent analog technology offerings promote even higher resolutions of up to 960H (960 x 480 pixels).
However, while analog solutions are capable of capturing clean video evidence, these maximum resolutions limit the ability to digitally zoom in on live and recorded video without significant loss of image clarity, and typically do not provide the level of detail required for applications such as facial recognition or license plate identification.
That being said, analog video security solutions are a popular option for many residential and small business applications, as they are simple to install and operate, and very affordable when compared to traditional IP solutions.
HD Analog technology delivers the simplicity and affordability of traditional analog solutions, while addressing many of the limitations listed above.
HD Analog systems are capable of delivering megapixel resolution HD video (up to 1920 x 1080 pixels) over standard coaxial cabling, providing the ability to digitally zoom in on both live and recorded video to capture the forensic level of detail needed for positive identification.
Additionally, HD Analog solutions are compatible with existing analog CCTV cameras and can leverage existing coaxial cabling, dramatically reducing the time and cost associated with a transition.
And importantly, HD technology has become increasingly accessible. With the growing demand for higher definition video and the recent emergence of more cost-effective technologies, the market price for HD Analog solutions has reduced dramatically – almost to Analog levels.
Technology  |
Analog | HD-CVI | AHD | HD-SDI | HD-TVI | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Resolution | 960H960 x 582 px | 1080p1920 x 1080 px | 1080p*1920 x 1080 px*expected EOY 2014 | 1080p1920 x 1080 px | 1080p1920 x 1080 px | |
| Video Output Quality | FairLeast crisp images True colors (mftr dependent) |
Very good in daylightImages not as crisp in low light conditions | GoodImages not as crisp Colors not as accurate |
Very goodSharp images up to 1080p True colors |
Very goodSharp images up to 1080p True colors |
|
| Transmission Distance | Coaxial Cable (RG59) |
1000’ | 1600’ (720p) 1300’ (1080p) |
1600’ | 492’ | 1600’ |
| Twisted Pair (CAT5) |
350’without ballun1000’with ballun | 650’ | 492’ | 350’(digital converter required) | 700’ | |
| DVR Input Compatibility | Analog | All analog cameras, on any channel, in any configuration | All analog cameras, limited channels, limited configurations | All analog cameras, limited channels, limited configurations | Limited models, limited channels, limited configurations | All analog cameras, on any channel, in any configuration |
| HD Analog | N/A | Like-branded HD-CVI cameras, on any channel, in any configuration | Like-branded AHD cameras, on any channel, in any configuration | Select HD-SDI cameras, on any channel, in any configuration | Any HD-TVI camera, on any channel, in any configuration | |
| IP | N/A | Supported IP cameras, on select channels, in select configurations | N/A | N/A | Supported IP cameras, on 2 channels, in any configuration | |
| DVR Hybrid Capabilities | Select models offer hybrid capabilities | Limited configurability |
Limited configurability | Limited configurability | Yes, unlimited configurability | |
| Format Compatibility | Open standard, countless manufacturers with unlimited cross- compatibility | Proprietary technology, only produced by 1 manufacturer, Dahua - out of China. Concern is limited supply options, limited technology options, and lack of competitive pricing | Open standard, limited manufacturers | Open standard, multiple manufacturers - are currently exiting the market as alternative HD formats outpace SDI | Open standard, over 100 manufacturers have launched or are developing solutions using TVI technology | |
| Learn About HD‑CVI | Learn About AHD | Learn About HD‑SDI | Learn About HD‑TVI | |||
