Analog vs IP/Digital vs Wi-Fi Cameras

• Analog Cameras render an analog signal. The analog signal is transmitted through a coaxial cable with BNC connectors. Power is run through a separate cable. The analog signal is only converted to digital signal inside of a DVR DigitalVideo Recorder. In the past analog camera systems used a special type of VCR. They do make wireless and wire-free outdoor analog cameras.
• IP/Digital Cameras render a digital signal. The digital signal is transmitted through an ethernet cable to an NVR Network Video Recorder or PoE Power Over Ethernet switch. Most IP cameras and NVR use RTSP Real Time Streaming Protocol. I have not found a wireless battery powered outdoor IP camera.
  • IP address stands for internet protocol address; it is an identifying number that is associated with a specific computer, computer network device or other devices on the network. When connected to the internet, the IP address allows the computers to send and receive information. It is kind of like your home address.
  • PoE Power Over Ethernet provide communication and power through the same cable.
• Wi-Fi Cameras transmit a digital wireless signal and is usually encrypted. Very few Wi-Fi cameras use RTSP. There for most Wi-Fi Cameras can not connect to an NVR. Some Wi-Fi cameras require plug in power while others are battery powered or both.