At iWATCH we make it our business to understand how new storage technologies fit and how they can help increase the value of surveillance systems for our clients. New camera devices that have been introduced are gathering and storing more data. Data storage is an important but often overlooked piece of the surveillance package. Normally, data storage is primarily delegated to digital devices in the form of hard drives. Raid 5 technologies are abundant but are limited and sometimes unreliable. Additionally, direct connect storage is cumbersome to replace or upgrade and in many instances valuable data can be lost. Cluster storage is becoming more recognized but fiber infrastructures and enterprise class storage come at a premium cost to the end user. The emergence of new storage technologies utilizing Ethernet networks can help organizations manage ever-increasing amounts of data more effectively and efficiently. Ethernet storage also provides greater integrity and reliability as well as better overall system performance and the unique scalability that are welcome additions to antiquated storage.

Making the immense amounts of gathered information useful to the user interfacing with the data is key to deploying a successful surveillance solution. The ability to view, analyze, retrieve, and share video can make the difference between a surveillance solution being a necessary cost to becoming a valuable investment. The ability to analyze and group or index incoming data is a function of evolving software algorithms and data base functionality. The increased ability to group video by content is a valuable resource to assist in achieving security protocols. Proactive system assistance can help save lives. Additionally, the functionality can prevent significant losses in assets and resources. When deployed correctly the technology is easily upgradeable allowing for further functionality and enhanced capabilities.

The digital revolution is an ever-evolving science. Camera devices used for gathering surveillance data are rapidly being adapted to new technology advancements. Soon the days of analog cameras will be past as we push toward more functionality at the peripheral end. Currently, next generation cameras are manufactured as network devices utilizing Information Protocol (IP). The use of software and enhanced processing at the device itself enables the ability to capture a larger amount of data or images. These "mega pixel" devices are becoming more widely deployed. The ability to see more is attractive to many surveillance professionals. The use of larger images with more data allows greater analysis of that data and more ability for technology to be proactive. Video images being used for marketing, training, and even as direct income generating opportunities in addition to security duties can supplement implementation cost for newer technologies.