Embedded vs. Software

[Paul]

Would it be better to have embedded video analytics or software that runs on a PC? I will be connecting four cameras to record on intelligent motion. Would it be better to have the cameras run to a digital video recorder on a pc or just use a video server with an embedded video analytic platform. I hear Object Video offers video servers with embedded video analytics.

[Wes]

I would suggest just using software as it could be the cheapest solution for you considering you are only using 4 cameras. If you are installing more than 4 cameras, I would suggest using a video analytics video server for each camera. Video analytics software does take a lot of system resources on your computer to run. Using a video server with built-in video analytics will reduce the amount of CPU load on your computer.

What are the specs of the computer you will potentially be running the software on?
_________________
Wes
VideoAnalytics.net
www.videoanalytics.net

[Rambler]

I'm not sure that software is the best solution
using sophisticated edge device can be very easy and helpfull

[user1]

4 cameras shouldn't require a server..but merely a desktop pc running the right software. i-flashback from ControlByNet is not listed on this site right now but it would do what you are looking for.

[isafekurt]

[GregFisk]

You said you want to record on event based on the rule. What are you recording to? The interface between the recorder and the analytic is very important and should not be over looked. Not all NRV software integrates with every analytic manufacturer’s software or appliance.
For example ONSSI will integrate very nicely with Agent VI but not so well with anything else. Genetec integrates with more options but it is a very expensive recording solution. There are many lesser known manufacturers of NVR software that make grand claims of integration but may not provide what you need.
The way I would approach this is to settle on an NVR solution select the cameras then select the IVS based on the other decisions.
There may be advantages to an appliance in that it may have I/O built in that will allow for triggering of other devices such as a hybrid DVR or to an I/O board that will communicate with you NVR. ONSSI has an IP based I/O solution that will allow you to do this. It requires programming generic events and such and can be tedious. It is far better for the interface to be done for you at the software level so you do not have to monkey with it. Either solution an appliance or software based can do this for you.

I disagree that if there are more channels that an appliance is better. The reason I say this is because I do not think it has anything to do with the number of channels. Many software packages can do way more than the 4 that used to be standard (based on the OV model) if they are doing basic algorithms. The kicker is these can now be done pretty effectively at the camera. Bosh is rebranding the Aimitis products as their on board analytics and they are real good. Mark has done a wonderful job with this product. The Agent VI product uses an agent at the camera although it clunkier than the Aimetis product in that you need a client to set the rules. Sony has come a long way with their analytics but your recoding solution has to be able to talk DEPA. If you are going to do advanced algorithms you need the computer and you will not be able to do many channels per computer. Since you are only doing 4 you should be ok with just about anything.

I would find out in great detail how that integration is accomplished and what is required of you from a programming perspective before I lay out any cash.
Remember the best analytic in the world will do you no good if it cannot communicate that the rule has been broken to your NVR so the NVR can trigger the desired response.