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Deja IP all over again

I had a couple of interesting conversations this month with system integrators that have been working in our market for some time. As these things go, both said the same thing while disagreeing.

On the one hand, one of the integrators was adamant that almost all the new projects out there are open-platform jobs, meaning IP-based systems that can (supposedly) incorporate various camera, storage and video management brands. The other, while acknowledging that open systems are becoming the norm in the security world due to the flexibility they offer users, also noted that analogue still has a place (mainly due to price) and that openness is hard to define. Ideally, an open system would allow the user to pick and choose best-of-breed components that suited his/her needs and integrate them with no problem, however, those who have actually tried that know it is not all that simple.

The growth of IP versus analogue is a fact, but I wonder if everyone out there is simply ready to pay a premium for an IP system when in many cases analogue solutions can do the job? There are many installers and integrators (and even some consultants) that still recommend analogue for certain functions. And if it meets the user’s requirements, why not?

With the HDcctv alliance starting to have a say in the market, I think we will see analogue extending its lifespan substantially, unless IP systems come down even further in cost. Look out for an article we are sourcing on HDcctv in a future issue – it brings amazing potential for existing analogue users, as well as a catch in terms of the equipment you use.

Also in a future issue, we will be taking a look at a camera shoot-out between six manufacturers that happened right here in Johannesburg. We cannot give all the gruesome details, but we hope to get you some good insight.

Biometrics Selection Guide

As for this issue, you will notice a rather large section containing our annual Biometrics Selection Guide. Who knew there were so many options? It would be nice to see more non-fingerprint entries, but I guess the market wants what it wants and fingerprint devices rule the roost at the moment.

We also accompany the biometrics tables with some interesting views on biometrics and a bit on mobile biometric standards. Just think how interesting the market would be if users knew enough about standards to make investment decisions. The bakkie brigade and some more ‘acceptable’ installers would have a hard time of it. Fortunately there are still lots of customers out there making decisions based on price and what someone else told them – if you are interested my cousin will make you a good deal on cameras, very cheap.

It is a bumper issue this month (do not miss the news section) so I will not go into any more detail except to say enjoy your read and feel free to let us have any comments or criticisms at andrew@technews.co.za.

Andrew Seldon, Editor

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