What is a Video Server? With the convergence of IP Network Video into CCTV (Closed Circuit Television), many are looking to convert their existing CCTV surveillance system into an IP Network Video system. Is this possible? How can it be done? Video Servers have been created to do just that. Let’s take a look at the questions regarding Video Servers and let’s discuss how they can benefit you if you have an existing CCTV surveillance system.

3.2/5.0 (11 votes total) Rate: Select 1 - Terrible 2 - Poor 3 - Average 4 - Good 5 - Outstanding

Wes Fernley February 21, 2007

With the convergence of IP Network Video into CCTV (Closed Circuit Television), many are looking to convert their existing CCTV surveillance system into an IP Network Video system. Is this possible? How can it be done? Video Servers have been created to do just that. Let’s take a look at the questions regarding Video Servers and let’s discuss how they can benefit you if you have an existing CCTV surveillance system.

So what is a Video Server? Well in basic terms, a Video Server is a device that can convert an analog signal from an Analog CCTV Surveillance Camera into a digital format similar to IP Network Cameras. The Video Server can then be plugged into your computer network allowing you to record relevant video to a network device such as a PC or NAS (Network Attached Storage). The 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 location.

Video Servers also include a built-in web server. This means they can run independent without the need of a PC, like a webcam does. Some Video Servers even have built-in motion detection or Video Analytics that allows the Video Server to detect unwanted motion or track objects. Security personnel can then be notified immediately of this and proper actions can be taken.

Video Servers can start for around $100 USD but can go up to the thousands if you are looking for specific features. More and more Video Servers are becoming available by a wide range of manufacturers. As mentioned before, Video Analytics are starting to be integrated into Video Servers that allows the video server to have smart motion detection, object tracking and object recognition. This means the Video Server can monitor the camera for you and notify you immediately if unwanted perpetrators or objects are found where they should not be.

Most Video Servers also offer a Video-Output jack. This allows you to integrate the Video Server into your existing CCTV surveillance system but also convert the signal from each camera to a digital signal. This allows you to 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 also record audio as well.

The world is a changing place and so is the security industry. Video Servers have been around for a few years, however, they are not at their full potential. If anyone is thinking of upgrading their current surveillance system, I would highly suggest integrating Video Servers into your current surveillance system or even upgrading your system to IP Network Cameras. Video Servers offer a wide variety of benefits and can help you easily monitor your home or business when you can’t be there.

I have also written an article that discusses the benefits of Video Servers. The article is currently featured on the NetworkCameraReviews.com website.