As 2015 comes to a close, it’s a good time to look back at how our industry has changed this year and what we can expect for 2016.
Specifically in the area of video surveillance, the trend toward higher resolutions continued this year. Whereas a few years ago, 720p was the most popular resolution for HD cameras, 1080p has now become the standard choice, and even higher resolutions, such as 4K ultra HD cameras, are seeing increased sales. Integrators are also using a broader mix of cameras in installations; panoramic cameras are more prevalent and are often used as a complement to other fixed and moving cameras.
Wider acceptance of video analytics
Looking ahead, the adoption of video analytics will continue to grow. While still more dominant in enterprise-level and mission-critical installations where analytics are specified into the system, we’ll see this technology trickle down into everyday installations, like larger retail stores, schools and offices. Soon, the cameras used for these applications will begin to offer some level of built-in analytics, representing an improved feature set for mid-range cameras.
Easy-to-install security systems
Products and systems will also continue to get easier to install. This is true both from an individual product perspective – such as cameras where more of the setup and maintenance can be done remotely – and from a complete system perspective. Now, products work together to create a truly integrated solution without the integration complexity. Video verification of access and intrusion events, better management of video and security devices with a single view of status and events, and remote control and operation of devices becomes seamless for the user and simpler to install for the integrator.
Cloud-based video monitoring on the rise
In addition, cloud-based video monitoring will become more prevalent in 2016, helping to prevent theft and vandalism. For example, alarms generated by an IP camera are sent to the central monitoring station, where the operator verifies an attempted break-in is in progress. The operator then takes immediate action through audio intervention to prevent theft and further damage. This is just one example of the capabilities enabled by cloud-based video monitoring.
Moving into 2016, there are many opportunities for end users and integrators to enhance security using the latest technologies. It continues to be an exciting time in the industry.
See the full coverage of 2015/2016 Review and Forecast articles here
