Comparison TP-LINK Tapo C400S2 vs TP-LINK Tapo C420S2

This parameter refers to the included DVR and describes the types of video signal (and therefore cameras) with which it is compatible. In some cases, the model is also indicated - for connoisseurs of the matter. So you can learn more about the capabilities of the device on specialized sources.

- Analog. Recorders capable of working only with analog cameras, usually connected via the BNC interface (see below). The functionality of such devices is less extensive than in digital and hybrid models, but they are simple, inexpensive and quite capable of coping with basic video surveillance tasks. We also note that a modern analog recorder usually has video outputs and service interfaces in a digital format - primarily HDMI and LAN (see below).

- Digital. Recorders designed to work with IP cameras - that is, cameras that transmit video signal through computer networks. This signal format provides improved noise immunity and a greater number of additional features compared to analog. In addition, it allows you to build video surveillance systems based on existing local networks, and cameras can be connected not only by wire, but also wirelessly (see below for more details). On the other hand, digital recorders and cameras are more expensive than analog ones, advanced functionality is not often needed in practice, and the transfer of a large number of video streams can create a high load on net...work equipment. Therefore, it makes sense to purchase such a recorder only if the described advantages have crucial.

- Hybrid. Recorders that combine the capabilities of analog and digital models - that is, compatible with both analog and IP cameras. This combination allows you to combine the advantages of both types and partly compensate for the shortcomings, but significantly increases the price of the registrar.

A model of pointed cameras supplied with a video surveillance kit. Knowing this data, you can find detailed information on the cameras and clarify their characteristics. Also, if you buy additional cameras of the same model, you don't have to worry about compatibility.

The type of matrices used in pointed cameras.

— CMOS. Also known as CMOS. Matrices of this type have good speed, small size, low power consumption and lower cost than CCD. On the other hand, the image quality of CMOS matrices is somewhat worse, and the noise is noticeably higher. However, these shortcomings can be corrected with the help of constructive tricks, and the technology itself is constantly being improved. Therefore, today CMOS matrices can be found both in inexpensive and in fairly advanced cameras; the actual quality of the sensor usually depends on the price category of the camera.

— CCD. Another well-known name is CCD. Compared to CMOS, such matrices are much more expensive and thicker, but they have lower noise levels and noticeably improve image quality. Of the practical disadvantages of CCD, it is worth noting that it is difficult to properly process point light sources; however, in many cameras, this moment is compensated to one degree or another by special technologies. Matrices of this type are typical for cameras of the middle and top levels.

— DIS. The main feature of DIS matrices is the presence of a built-in image processor in the sensor itself. This allows you to achieve good image quality with small dimensions and low cost of the cameras themselves. In addition, DIS matrices are resistant to low temperatures, which makes them especially suitable for outdoor applications.

Sensor resolution of pointed cameras in megapixels (millions of pixels).

Higher resolution allows you to get a more detailed "picture". However, increasing the number of megapixels without increasing the sensor size can result in poor overall image quality and noise, especially in low light. Therefore, in itself, the high resolution of the matrix does not guarantee high quality shooting.

Focal length of the lens of pointed cameras included in the set.

The focal length is the distance between the lens and the matrix, at which the image on the sensor is as clear as possible (when the lens is focused to infinity). This indicator directly affects the viewing angles and the degree of magnification: the larger the focal length, the narrower the viewing angle and the more the camera "brings" the object. At the same time, it should be noted that the actual viewing angle is determined not only by the focal length, but also by the size of the matrix (see above). In fact, this means that with different sizes of matrices, lenses with the same focal length will have different working angles. Therefore, only cameras with the same matrix size can be compared with each other according to this indicator.

The viewing angle of the directional cameras supplied as standard is horizontal.

Wide viewing angles allow you to cover a large area; this is especially important given that directional cameras are often made stationary. On the other hand, all other things being equal, a larger viewing angle will mean a lower degree of magnification - objects will look smaller, detail will be worse. Therefore, when choosing according to this parameter, you should proceed from what is more important - a wide field of view or “range”.

Maximum HDMI resolution.

The maximum image resolution that can be output via HDMI to the screen of the connected video equipment (monitor, TV, etc.). The HDMI output on the DVR allows you to stream Full HD, 2K or 4K images for high quality multi-screen images.

The maximum frame resolution in which the complete recorder can record video if all video channels are involved in operation. In fact, we are talking about the highest resolution in maximum load mode; if some channels are idle, some models allow higher resolutions. However, it is customary to indicate this parameter in the specifications - it most accurately characterizes the capabilities of the device.

As for the resolution itself, the higher it is, the more detailed the image is; on the other hand, such video requires significant processing power and capacious storage drives, which affects the final cost of the equipment.

Popular maximum frame resolutions in which modern recorders record: HD (720), Full HD (1080), Quad HD, Ultra HD (4K).

The highest frame rate at which the complete recorder can record at full load when all video channels are used. In other words, this is the guaranteed maximum frame rate that can be achieved at any load level (with some channels idle, the number of frames per second may be higher, but not necessarily).

The higher the frame rate, the better fast movement will be captured, the less blurry objects in such scenes will turn out. On the other hand, this indicator directly affects the cost of equipment and the amount of memory occupied by the footage. For video surveillance systems, an indicator of 24 fps is currently considered the minimum necessary, 50 – 60 fps is not bad, and in the most advanced registrars this number can reach 120 fps.