The biggest segment of the security systems market is the network or IP security camera.
And the two fastest growing IP camera technologies are megapixel security cameras and high definition HD security cameras.
Because these two technologies indicate an improved level of imaging performance compared to traditional analog images, they are often thought to be the same – but they are not.
So what exactly is the difference between megapixel and high definition HD security cameras, what do the two terms mean, and what are their benefits for business owners?
In simple terms, ALL megapixel cameras are HD (or higher) resolution, but not all HD cameras are megapixel cameras.
Let’s look at this in more detail…
Megapixel Security Cameras Defined
Any camera with a resolution of more than 1,000,000 pixels is, by definition, a megapixel camera:
One million or more or more pixels of resolution
Flexible image formats: 4:3, 5:4, etc.
Flexible resolutions: 1 to 10 megapixels (or more)
Maximum resolution (today): 29 megapixels
Frame rate: 3-15 frames per second
The range of megapixel cameras continues to expand to accommodate various application requirements.
HD Security Cameras Defined
HD security cameras are defined by specific resolutions, at specific frame rates, with a specific aspect ratio, as follows:
Two resolutions: HD (720p) and full HD (1080p), measured by pixels of horizontal resolution.
A 720p HD security camera resolution provides images that are 1280 x 720 pixels, which equals 921,600 pixels. (Technically is not a megapixel camera.)
A 1080p HD security camera provides 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, or 2.1 megapixels. (Technically is a megapixel camera.)
16:9 image format (rather than 5:4 or 4:3).
Frame rate: 25/30 Hz
Progressive scanning: all lines in each frame are drawn in sequence.
Conforms better to multimedia systems, but resolution and image format choices are more limited.
What Are Their Benefits For Business Owners?
Megapixel and HD security cameras can be of great advantage to businesses, as well as being cost effective.
Because of the higher resolution provided by this technology, it is possible to use fewer cameras to cover larger areas, whilst maintaining a high level of detail.
Megapixel and HD security cameras can also translate into reduced infrastructure and cabling costs for businesses, and an overall lower total cost of ownership.
Additionally, the superior resolution provided by megapixel and HD security cameras enables highly detailed and accurate digital pan/tilt/zoom of live and recorded images.
Proper deployment and application of this imaging technology will allow you to provide a better performing security system, whilst maintaining cost competitive pricing.
Our experienced security technicians at Insight EDS can help you identify what kind of cameras you need for your location and requirements.
