WHAT IS HIGH DEFINITION OVER COAX?
High definition over coax is a new video standard that transmits high definition video over coaxial cable. This technology emerged in the video surveillance market in 2010 as an alternative to analog and IP video surveillance solutions. In recent years, HD over coax has grown in popularity with the development of new technologies.
Available high definition over coax technologies include:
- AHD (Analog High Definition)
- HD-CVI (Composite Video Interface)
- HD-SDI (Serial Digital Interface)
- HD-TVI (Transport Video Interface)
HOW DOES IT COMPARE?
While most of the high definition over coax technologies offer the same benefits compared to analog or IP, each of these technologies feature unique capabilities and compatibilities. The table below shows the average transmission distance for all HD over coax technologies. To see the comparison chart for each of the available HD over coax technologies, download our free High Definition Over Coax Solutions Whitepaper.
| SPECIFICAtTION | HD OVER COAX | ANALOG | IP |
| Resolution | 720p HD 1080p Full-HD |
960H | 5MP+ |
| Coax Cable (RG59) Transmission Distance |
~ 500m ~ (1500ft) |
300m (1000ft) |
N/A |
| Twisted Cable (CAT5) Transmission Distance |
~ 200m ~ (700ft) |
100m (330ft) |
100m (330ft) |
HOW DOES IT WORK?
High definition over coax technologies convert digital signals to analog signals. The video is transmitted over standard coaxial cable (RG59) and twisted pair cable (CAT5/6), allowing existing coaxial cables to be used to transmit high definition video quality. The ability to use existing coaxial cable reduces the time and cost associated with transitioning from an old analog system to high definition video. HD over coax cameras install just like standard analog cameras, simplifying system installation with no networking or additional licensing requirements.
CONCLUSION
Costar Video Systems has released an HD-TVI product line of cameras and digital video recorders that utilizes the Transport Video Interface technology. HD-TVI will offer our customers even more flexibility when it comes to selecting a solution, allowing them to use analog, HD-TVI, IP, or a combination of the three technologies.
Want to learn more about HD-TVI or other high definition over coax technologies?
Download our free High Definition Over Coax Solutions Whitepaper.