Next-gen tech breeds optimism for greater adoption of HDcctv solutions

While there are those who remain bullish on the prospects for HDcctv technology as a viable alternative to high-definition IP cameras, there are others in the video surveillance industry who don’t believe in the analog technology at all, according to research note released this week by market research firm IHS.

“Even accounting for the inevitable bias towards their own product line – there seems to be genuine uncertainty amongst manufacturers at the future direction for HD, low-latency video provision”, David Green, senior analyst for video surveillance at IHS said in a statement.

While HDcctv solutions offer users live view, high-definition image over legacy coax cabling, IHS says that relying on demand from markets with high volumes of installed analog systems has not been a guarantee of success. Although over four million analog cameras are sold in the U.S. each year, IHS says that penetration rates for HDcctv remain low when compared to other markets like China.

“Cost and cable reach are the common discussion points that seem to put many off,” said Green. “Whilst there’s clearly a demand out there for this third solution, it’s fair to say that sales can’t hit that next level of growth until costs reduce and 100 meter transmission limits are improved.”

However, the research firm said that there is cause for optimism with the launch of “second-generation” HDcctv products.

“For example, Dahua has already launched its CVI technology, the HDcctv Alliance has released the 2.0 standard, and it’s more than just rumour that other equipment and semiconductor manufacturers have their own proprietary solutions in the latter stages of development,” wrote IHS. “In all cases, the claims of 300-1,000 metre transmission ranges and prices closer to analog than network equipment should break down some of the barriers to adoption.”

“Whether or not HDcctv can crack more developed markets such as the USA remains to be seen,” added Green.  “But second-generation HDcctv solutions sold to developing markets definitely pushes the global picture towards a growing slice of the market, rather than the small-time niche.”