According to independent research on the differences
between analog and digital solutions, installation, con-
figuration and training costs for analog systems are
almost 50% more than for IP systems. For example,
cabling is almost three times as expensive in analog
systems compared with IP-based systems. The primary
reason is that coaxial cabling is more expensive than
Ethernet cabling. Also, analog typically requires sepa-
rate power cabling, while Power over Ethernet elimi-
nates the need for electrical connections in the IP sys-
tem, and separate cabling is also needed to control
analog PTZ cameras. A network video system allows
users to incorporate open PC systems and open storage
with video management software, which costs 20%
less than DVRs.
> If an IP infrastructure is installed, the network video
system is always lower in cost.
> Network video systems of 40 cameras or more have
a lower total cost of ownership than analog-based
systems.
> 32 cameras is the break-even point for IP systems vs.
analog. Beyond 32 cameras, the network video sys-
tem in common scenarios has a lower cost, and be-
tween 16 and 32, the cost is quite similar or may be
slightly lower for analog systems.
> Network video products have other benefits that
cannot be quantified: scalability, easier integration
with other systems, superior image quality, better
maintenance and service, easier troubleshooting,
and many more.
To read the full study, please visit:
www.axis.com/corporate/corp/papers/tco.htm
Total cost of ownership at a glance
All the advanced features offered by network video come at a cost. The initial price for a net-
work camera can be higher than an analog camera, if one compares only the camera. But
comparing the cost per video channel, the Axis network video system, with all its superior
flexibility and performance, quickly becomes comparable with an analog system anchored by
a DVR. In many system configurations, the upfront cost for a surveillance system based on
network video products is lower.
> Worldwide #1 in network video,
the world’s leading expert
> Proven installations across all
continents
> Broadest product portfolio in the
industry
> Broadest network of security and
IT partners
> Over 20 years of networking
excellence
Why Axis
The total cost for network video systems with existing infrastructure vs.
analog solutions will range from 35% lower for systems with up to four
cameras to an average of 15% less for systems with more than 60 cam-
eras. In cases where there is no existing IP infrastructure, analog solu-
tions have a 5%-10% price advantage for systems up to 32 cameras
vs. IP. But beyond 32 cameras, the price advantage for network video
systems averages 5%.
IP system
US$ 61,382
Analog solutions
US$ 63,481
