What Is A Video Server?

Converting your existing CCTV system into an IP network video system has become a reality largely thanks to the introduction of Video Servers.

A Video Server is a device that converts a signal from an analog CCTV camera into digital format, which is similar to IP network cameras. You can plug the server into your computer network, which allows you to record relevant video to a network device such as a PC or NAS (Network Attached Storage).

A Video Server can also be connected to the Internet allowing you to view live video from anywhere in the world and even record video to a remote video location.

Video Servers can run independently without using a PC as they have a built in web server. Some Video Servers can detect unwanted motion or track objects as they have a built-in motion detection or Video Analytics.

Video Analytics are being integrated into Video Servers allowing the Video Server to have smart motion detection, object tracking and object recognition. This allows the Video Server to monitor your CCTV cameras for you and you will be notified immediately if unwanted perpetrators or objects are found where they should not be.

Most Video Servers offer a Video-Output Jack. This allows you to integrate the Video Server into your existing CCTV surveillance system and also convert the signal from each camera to a digital signal. In doing this you can still view and record video on television but also view and record on your PC. Some Video Servers include Audio–in which allows you to record audio as well.

Although Video Servers have been around for years they are not at their full potential. Should you wish to upgrade your current surveillance system then it is highly suggested to integrate Video Servers into your current system or by upgrading your system to IP Network Cameras.

The price of a Video Server starts from around £50 and can cost thousands if you want specific features. They are becoming rapidly available from a wide range of manufacturers.