One of the most exciting developments in IP Video is adding storage inside of an IP camera. In the past, cameras had to be connected to a storage device. If the connection between the camera and the storage device was lost, video recording was stopped and all video during that time period was permanently lost.

Today, most new IP cameras allow the addition of on-board storage. Most of the cameras support Compact Flash cards while a few are even adding hard drives inside of the camera. Currently, Compact Flash up to 32 GB is widely available. With Compact Flash getting cheaper and cheaper, soon you will be able to add hundreds of GB of storage inside your camera.

The two benefits of on-board storage is (1)that you can continue to record even if your network connection goes down and (2) you can eliminate using a separate recorder/server (as the recording is built into the camera). Cameras connected over wireless connections especially benefit from putting the storage on board. Plus, with small camera deployments, the savings from eliminating a separate recorder can be substantial.

At the same time, you should be aware of limitations of on-board storage. First, Compact Flash used in on-board storage costs a lot more per unit of storage than regular hard drive. Secondly, most video management systems do not support on-board storage (this will improve but be careful). Finally, if a thief gets to your camera, with on-board storage they can easily steal your recording.

On-board storage has great potential but make sure it’s right for your particular needs.

About the Author
John Honovich is the founder of IP Video Market Info. John researches and writes extensively for IP Video Market Info, providing analysis of new video surveillance technologies and emerging products.

Tags: flash card, onboard recording, onboard storage, sd card