CCTV System Types Compared: IP vs Analog, and How to Choose

A practical comparison of IP and analog (HD-TVI/AHD/CVI) CCTV systems for commercial buildings in Iraq, including cost, scalability, image quality, and when each is appropriate.

IP CCTV

IP cameras transmit video as digital network packets over Ethernet (Cat6 or fiber). Each camera is a small networked computer with its own processor, codec, and (often) on-board storage option. Recorder is a Network Video Recorder (NVR). Modern IP cameras support resolutions from 2MP up to 12MP+, H.265+ compression for bandwidth efficiency, and advanced AI features (line-crossing, intrusion, face capture, license plate recognition). IP is the standard for new commercial installations.

Analog HD CCTV (HD-TVI, AHD, CVI)

Analog HD cameras transmit video over coaxial cable to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). They are simpler, cheaper per channel, and can re-use existing coax cabling from legacy installations. Maximum resolution is typically 5MP — sufficient for many small/mid-size deployments but limited compared to IP. Analog HD remains the right choice for retrofits where running new Cat6 to every camera location is impractical.

Decision criteria

Choose IP when: (a) the building is new or being renovated, (b) you need 8MP+ resolution, (c) you want analytics/AI features, (d) you need centralised storage with redundancy, or (e) the camera count exceeds ~32. Choose Analog HD when: (a) you are retrofitting an existing coax infrastructure, (b) the project is small (under 16 channels), and (c) budget is the primary driver.

What TSB Smart Tech installs

TSB Smart Tech primarily installs Hikvision IP CCTV systems — bullet, turret, dome, PTZ, and panoramic models. Typical commercial deployments use 4MP turret cameras for indoor coverage and 8MP bullet cameras for outdoor perimeter, with NVRs sized for 30-90 days of recording at full resolution. We also supply HD-TVI analog systems for retrofits.

Frequently asked questions

Do I still need CCTV if I have access control?

Yes. Access control records who entered with valid credentials. CCTV records the actual scene — who was at the door, what they did, and any unauthorised activity. The two systems are complementary, not redundant.

How many cameras do I need for a typical office floor?

A reasonable starting point: one camera per entry/exit, one per corridor intersection, one per public area (reception, server room, finance). A 1000m² office typically needs 8-16 cameras for full coverage.

How long should CCTV footage be retained?

30 days is the common minimum for commercial sites. Banks, government buildings, and oil & gas facilities often retain 90-180 days. Iraq has no national mandate, but contractual requirements often specify retention.

Can CCTV cameras work in Iraq's power outages?

Yes, with a properly sized UPS for the NVR and PoE switches. TSB Smart Tech systems include UPS sizing for 30-120 minutes of operation depending on critical-system requirements.