Home Surveillance Solutions

1. Technology Choice: IP vs. HD-TVI (Analog/Hybrid)

The first major decision is the technology platform. For new installations, IP CCTV (Internet Protocol) is the modern standard, offering superior quality and features, while HD-TVI (High Definition Transport Video Interface) can be a more budget-friendly option, especially if upgrading existing coaxial cables.

Hikvision, Dahua, and Uniview offer strong product lines in both IP and HD-TVI (often referred to as Turbo HD, HDCVI, or HD Analog) to suit your needs.

2. Key Features to Look For in 4-Camera Kits

When evaluating 4-camera kits from these top brands, focus on the following specifications:

3. Estimated Costs (South African Rands - ZAR)

The cost of a 4-camera system can vary widely based on the technology (HD-TVI/IP), the resolution (2MP/4MP/8MP), and the inclusion of advanced features (e.g., Colour night vision, AcuSense/WizSense).

Note: These prices are estimates based on market data in South Africa and include the NVR/DVR, 4 cameras, and a 1TB HDD. Installation costs vary significantly based on the complexity of the wiring, the length of the cable runs, and the installer's labour rates.

4. Installation Complexity and Hidden Costs

While a DIY kit price may seem appealing, the actual installation process can introduce significant costs and complexity, particularly for a professional finish.

5. Common Mistakes and Shortcuts to Avoid

When installing your system, taking shortcuts can compromise both the security and longevity of your investment.

6. Final Recommendation: Resolution Justification

For an easy-to-manage, reliable system from Hikvision, Dahua, or Uniview, a mid-range 4MP or 5MP IP system with PoE and an AI feature (AcuSense/WizSense) provides the best balance of value, performance, and reliability.

Why 4MP or 5MP is Recommended:

• Pixel Density for Identification: 4MP (2560 x 1440 pixels) and 5MP cameras offer significantly higher pixel density than 1080p, especially when digitally zooming into recorded footage. This higher density ensures the camera can meet the Recognition and Identification levels of the DORI standard at reasonable distances, which is crucial for distinguishing facial features, clothing details, or package contents.
• Optimal Balance: This resolution range is a sweet spot between ultimate clarity (8MP/4K) and manageable system resource usage. It provides excellent image quality while keeping the demands on the NVR, the network bandwidth, and the Hard Drive (HDD) storage requirements practical and cost-effective for a residential setup.
• Enhanced AI Accuracy: The superior detail provided by 4MP/5MP feeds more accurate data into the AI algorithms (like AcuSense or WizSense), leading to lower false alarms and more reliable human/vehicle detection.

Limitations of 1080p (2MP) Resolution:

• Poor Digital Zoom: The primary limitation of a 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels) camera is its lack of forensic detail. If an incident occurs slightly further away from the camera, attempting to digitally zoom in on the recorded footage results in severe pixelation. This often makes it impossible to achieve the Identification level of detail required for law enforcement or insurance claims (e.g., a blurry face, illegible license plate).
• DORI Distance Constraint: 1080p can usually only achieve the Identification level at very short distances (e.g., within 3-5 meters depending on the lens). Beyond that, it quickly drops to the Observation or Detection level, meaning you see that a person is there, but not who they are.
• Wider Coverage Compromise: When using a wide-angle lens (e.g., 2.8mm) to cover a large area, the limited pixels of 1080p are stretched thin, resulting in low detail across the entire scene.

We recommend that customers pay close attention to the DORI requirements and environmental factors like WDR when selecting and positioning their four cameras. Do not compromise on installation quality—it is the foundation of a reliable long-term security system.