mytheory.

Hi, I need some advice regarding our setup... and the best way to upgrade it. Here is some background info. We have 3 stores/locations. Each store had 1 or 2 standalone DVRs each with 16 channels. One location has 1 DVR with 16 channels, and other two has 2 DVRS with 16 channels each (so a total of 32 cameras). These location have each DVR outputting to a separate TV (one for each dvr). We use the same DVRs and they all record at D1 (ithink 7 fps). We want to upgrade our systems and these are the reasons why: 1) The pictures from pulled from these DVRs/Cameras are not clear enough. We need to be able to see the persons face and at least the type of car they are driving. 2) It is too difficult to pull footage. When an incident occurs and we have to pull video for the detectives it is a pain. 3) Networking all 3 locations is very difficult. It is difficult to access our cameras from somewhere else. We also want to link all 3 locations into 1 CMS program. Basically, so the owners can monitor all 3 locations from home. Each individual dvr can be at their respective location, we just want to be able to access them all from outside. 4) Must be able to output on to at least 2 tvs for real time viewing from the storefront. So employees can monitor in real time. 5) Must be stable 6) Must be easy to upgrade... if we add another location we want to run the same setup and easily tie it back into the current/upgrade system. 7) It is difficult to backup in case of hardware failure. The main reasons are the reasons for upgrading, but also the most important points we need for the new setup. Although we would like to keep the original rg59 cables, if it makes sense we are willing to re-run new lines (cat5/6 or whatever it may be). So, what is the best system at the moment that may address these issues? The top 3 are very important... clear picture of suspect, easy to review tape, and network all systems into 1 central location. I've been hearing a lot about IP cameras... I imagine networking being more easily but hows the picture quality and setup process? Any advice is much appreciated. Thank you!

Hi, Thanks for your advice. I've reviewed Avigilon's site and they appear to offer a wide selection of hardware to suite our needs. However, there are no prices and I can't get a response via their contact form. How did you get your Avigilon setup? Is there a online store, or does it have to come from a distributor/sales rep? Thanks!

Hi, Thanks for the reply. How does video quality compare between IP and HD-SDI? I recently heard that some existing RG59 cables might not work with HD-SDI... is this correct? If we don't this would be a great option. But if we do have run new lines anyways which one is better? Thanks! PS. We are located in Nashville, TN.