Advantages of IP CCTV | Disadvantages of IP CCTV
This page covers advantages and disadvantages of IP CCTV system. It mentions benefits or advantages of IP CCTV and drawbacks or disadvantages of IP CCTV.
The CCTV systems are broadly classified into IP CCTV and Analog CCTV. Both the systems allow us to view on smartphone, record on a digital hard drive and help us produce up to 4K 1080p HD images.
What is IP CCTV ?
In digital CCTV or IP CCTV system, IP video cameras are connected with NVR (Network Video Recorder) through ethernet cables. In this system, IP cameras broadcast digital video stream over IP network. The digital form of videos are recorded on hard disk drives. Cameras are connected with NVR through ethernet switch. Latest NVRs are equipped with built-in ethernet switch for interfacing cameras.

Figure-1 : IP CCTV system block diagram
The block diagram depicts connections of various modules used in IP CCTV system. All the system modules shown are manufactured by Hikvision (Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd.). HIKVISION is a chinese state owned manufacturer. The major module is Network Video Recorder (NVR) with which all the other modules of the system are interfaced. Hard disk such as Seagate is connected inside the NVR box as per requirements such as 1TB, 2TB etc.
The complete system with all the components are easily available from reputed vendors across the world as per required number of cameras. As shown wifi router is interfaced on ethernet port of the NVR. Router can provide connectivity with ISP (Internet Service Provider), ethernet switch, desktop or laptop and NVR. All the wired or wireless devices can connect with internet via the router. Cameras provide connectivity with NVR directly or through ethernet switch/router based on NVR models used. Monitor can be interfaced with VGA or HDMI port as per resolution requirements.

Figure-2 : NVR Back Panel
Following table mentions rear panel interfaces used on network video recorder DS7600 series.
No. | Item | Description |
---|---|---|
1 | Power Supply | 12V DC power supply |
2 | Audio IN | RCA connector for audio input |
3 | HDMI Interface | HDMI Video output connector |
4 | LAN Network Interface | 10/100/1000 Mbps self adaptive ethernet interface |
5 | Audio Out | RCA connector for audio output |
6 | VGA Interface | DB9 connector for VGA output. Display local video output and menu. |
7 | USB interface | Used to connect USB devices such as mouse and hard disk drive |
8 | GND | Ground |
9 | Power Switch | Used to switch ON/OFF the NVR. |
10 | Network interfaces with built-in switch function. | Built-in switch network interfaces for cameras. |
Benefits or advantages of IP CCTV
Following are the benefits or advantages of IP CCTV:
➨It can use existing CAT5e wiring.
➨It is scalable system. Multiple cameras can be added to the NVR (Network Video Recorder).
➨It is easy to integrate in home automation environment.
➨It supports smart features. IP cameras can be configured remotely. They support advanced features such as motion detection,
video analytics etc.
➨It is more flexible and upgradable due to use of IP feature.
➨It uses PoE (Power over Ethernet) which eliminates need for power cables.
➨It supports much higher resolution and better picture quality than analog CCTV system.
Drawbacks or disadvantages of IP CCTV
Following are the drawbacks or disadvantages of IP CCTV:
➨It requires considerable technical knowledge for installation compare to analog CCTV.
➨Cameras required IP network to be up and running for their operation.
➨IP cameras are expensive compare to normal cameras.
➨ Also refer advantages and disadvantages of Analog CCTV System >>.
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