06/13/2012
HD-SDI vs IP
I've been reading a lot lately about HD-SDI being able to transmit full 1080P resolution video using existing RG59 coax cable, so long as the cameras and DVRs are HD-SDI. The demos that I've seen appear to be stellar in quality.
Having mainly installed NTSC DVRs that are limited to D1 resolution, I've been looking on how to break into the HD market. IP has seemed like the way to go, but there is just so much upkeep and configuring that goes on with IP. You also run into bandwidth issues where having a decent sized system (8-10+ cameras) will basically require it's own network, otherwise it will just kill the bandwidth for the rest of the building.
What are the pros and cons of HD-SDI, in comparison to IP? In my opinion, IP has always given more flexibility and higher quality images, but with lower reliability (network dependent) and more maintenance. If HD-SDI can offer the great image quality, with most of the flexibility (DVRS are basically network appliances these days), then why would I use IP over it?