7 Reasons You Should Switch to Cloud-Based Cameras
1. Hardware
Traditional camera systems connect to a local piece of hardware, typically either an NVR or DVR. The NVR/DVR is the central brain which houses the software, storage, and settings for the cameras. Because NVRs/DVRs connect locally on the network, at least 1 is required for each physical location, sometimes multiple depending on how many cameras the NVR/DVR needs to support. Additionally, NVRs/DVRs use hard drives to store the camera footage, which fail periodically and are costly to replace.
One of the greatest benefits to cloud-based camera systems is that they do not require an NVR/DVR. Each camera has it’s own built-in flash or SSD storage, and upon booting up the camera reaches out to the cloud for its configuration and settings. As long as the camera has power, it will keep on recording, even if internet connectivity is severed. Once the internet connection is restored, the camera picks up right where it left off, and it will continue to backup on its regular schedule.
2. Scalability
Because cloud-based cameras reach out to the cloud for their configuration rather than a local network device, the possibilities with scalability are endless. The cameras can literally be installed anywhere, as long as power and internet are available. Regardless of location, all cameras can be seamlessly viewed and managed from a single-pane of glass.
3. Advanced Analytics
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of cloud-based cameras is that the leading brands have advanced AI analytics. Typically, these features aren’t available on the majority of other platforms: including License Plate Recognition, Facial Recognition, Person History, Vehicle History, Attribute Search, and more. Camera manufacturers are adding new technical capabilities to their cameras everyday!
4. User Management & Interface
The best possible scenario for user management is one single-pane of glass, which is exactly what a cloud-based camera platform offers. Cloud-Based user consoles can be accessed via web browser or mobile app, allowing for quick and easy access. These interfaces also include user groups and permissions, so that all users at every site can be given the appropriate access. It’s also very easy to configure desired alerts via push notification, SMS, or email.
5. Intergrations
Truly, the cloud is a beautiful thing. Cloud-based camera manufacturers are leveraging the power of the cloud by using the same console for all of their other products as well: including access control, environmental sensors, alarm, and more. Many cloud-based camera manufacturers have also built their software to allow integrations with other online services or hardware products that they do not offer, so that they can continue to provide the seamless single-pane of glass experience.
6. Warranty & Support
The two leading cloud-based camera manufacturers are local to the United States and provide a 10-Year Warranty on all of their cameras. If a camera stops working within that 10 years, the warranty replacement will be the latest and greatest camera model that they have to offer. They are also industry leading in customer support, in both quality and availability.
7. Off-Grid Capabilities
Because of the flexibility that comes with cloud-based cameras, they work great for off-grid deployments, where there is no power or internet that can be tapped into. These cameras can be powered by solar and use cellular connectivity to communicate with the cloud. ATG is now offering custom off-grid packages for these types of deployments, contact us to learn more!
We Can Help
Ready to make the switch? We’d love to help! We offer free consultations and we’d be honored to learn about your project. We can determine which cloud-based camera system is right for you, and provide you with a free quote for installation.