Bandwidth requirements per camera or per site vary significantly depending on factors such as manufacturer, video quality and scene complexity. Understanding these requirements is essential for ensuring smooth video streaming and optimal system performance.
What is Bandwidth for CCTV?
Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given amount of time. It’s usually measured in megabits per second (Mbps).
For Cloud video surveillance, bandwidth determines how many cameras can stream at once and at what quality (HD or 4K video requires more bandwidth).
How does Bitrate Relate to Bandwidth?
Bitrate is the amount of data each security camera generates per second during video recording and streaming. Higher bitrate means higher CCTV video quality, but it also requires more bandwidth to upload to the Cloud smoothly.
For example:
A 1080p HD camera might have a bitrate of 1–5 Mbps
A 4K camera can generate 8–12 Mbps or more
To avoid issues like dropped frames or choppy video, your available upload bandwidth must be equal to or greater than the total bitrate of all cameras streaming at the same time.
What can happen if my bandwidth is too low?
Because video footage is continuously uploaded from your cameras to the Cloud, insufficient bandwidth can cause:
Dropped frames or choppy footage
Lower resolution or forced compression
Delayed or failed uploads to Cloud storage
That’s why getting bandwidth right is crucial when moving to Cloud CCTV.
Factors Influencing Cloud CCTV Camera Bandwidth Requirements
- Camera Manufacturer and Model: Cameras have various specifications, which will affect bandwidth consumption. High-definition cameras generally require more bandwidth than standard-definition ones.
- Video Quality and Resolution: Higher video quality and resolution, such as 4K or Full HD, demand more bandwidth compared to 720p or SD. The desired level of detail in the video will significantly influence bandwidth needs.
- Compression Standards: Advanced compression technologies like H.264 and H.265 can reduce bandwidth requirements while maintaining high video quality, compared to older compression standards.
- Frame Rate: Higher frame rates provide smoother video but increase the data volume, necessitating more bandwidth.
- Scene Complexity: The complexity of the scene being monitored also affects bandwidth requirements. For instance:
- Static Scenes: A camera monitoring a quiet corridor with minimal movement may require as little as 100 Kbits/sec. The lack of movement and low scene complexity mean less data needs to be transmitted.
- Dynamic Scenes: In contrast, a camera covering a busy car park with constant vehicle and pedestrian movement may need significantly more bandwidth, potentially exceeding 2 Mbits/sec. The higher level of activity increases data transmission due to more frequent changes in the image.
Bandwidth Estimates Based on Scenarios
- Standard Definition (SD) Cameras: Typically need between 100 Kbits/sec and 500 Kbits/sec, suitable for low-complexity scenes like static corridors or indoor spaces with little movement.
- High Definition (HD) Cameras (720p): Generally require around 500 Kbits/sec to 1.5 Mbits/sec. This range is adequate for moderate activity levels, such as monitoring a small office space.
- Full HD Cameras (1080p): Can range from 1 Mbit/sec to 5 Mbits/sec, depending on the quality settings and scene complexity, like a retail store with customer traffic.
- 4K Cameras: Often demand 8 Mbits/sec or more, especially in high-activity areas like shopping centres or large car parks, where detailed footage is crucial.
Site-Wide Bandwidth Considerations
Consider the total number of cameras and their combined data output. The nature of the scenes being monitored, and the overall network capacity. It’s essential to ensure that your network infrastructure can handle the cumulative data load.
Contact us for further information on determining the bandwidth requirement per camera and site. Our team is ready to assist you in designing an efficient surveillance system that meets your needs and maximises your network resources.