Higher Resolution. Smarter Detection. Infinite Scalability.

What is the difference between a 2MP, 4MP, and 8MP IP camera?

Resolution determines how much detail is captured and at what distance subjects remain identifiable. A 2MP (1080p) camera can clearly identify a face at 6–8 metres and read a vehicle plate at 8–10 metres. A 4MP camera extends this to 12–15 metres for faces and 18–22 metres for plates. An 8MP (4K) camera identifies faces clearly at 20–25 metres and reads plates at 30–35 metres. For most Indian office and factory deployments, 4MP is the recommended minimum – providing excellent detail without excessive storage consumption when using H.265+ compression.

What is PoE and how does it simplify IP camera installation?

PoE (Power over Ethernet) delivers both electrical power and network connectivity through a single CAT6 cable from a PoE switch to each camera – eliminating the need for a separate power cable and electrical outlet at every camera location. This reduces installation cost by 25–40% (fewer cables, no electrician required for camera power points) and enables cameras to be placed anywhere a CAT6 network point can reach. PoE cameras also benefit from centralized power management – a UPS on the PoE switch keeps all cameras running during power cuts without individual camera UPS units.

How do I verify that an IP camera is genuine and not a counterfeit?

Verify genuineness through three checks: first, scan the QR code or enter the serial number on the brand's official website (Hikvision, Dahua, and CP Plus all have serial number verification portals). Second, check that the camera's firmware can be updated through the brand's official firmware download portal – counterfeit cameras cannot be registered or updated. Third, purchase only from Trade4Asia-listed providers who have provided official brand distributor certificates – grey-market cameras often arrive in plain boxes without brand packaging or warranty cards.

Can IP cameras work without internet? Do I need cloud access?

Yes – IP cameras work entirely on a local network without internet connectivity. The NVR records footage locally, and cameras are viewed via a local network monitor or PC. Internet is only required for remote access (mobile app viewing from outside the premises) and for cloud-based analytics platforms. For most Indian factory and office deployments, a local NVR with optional router-based remote access is sufficient and more secure than cloud-dependent systems. Always use VPN or manufacturer cloud relay instead of direct port forwarding for remote access.

What PoE switch do I need for 16 IP cameras?

For 16 cameras, you need a 16-port or 24-port PoE switch with sufficient total power budget. Standard IP cameras draw 7–13W each (802.3af PoE); IR bullet cameras and PTZ cameras may draw up to 25W (802.3at PoE+). For 16 standard cameras at 10W average, you need a switch with at least 160W PoE budget – budget 180–200W to allow headroom. Recommended: a 24-port managed PoE+ switch with 200–400W power budget (e.g., TP-Link TL-SG1224P, Hikvision DS-3E series, or Cisco SG350). Always confirm per-port and total power budget – cheap switches advertise total wattage but limit per-port output.