Advantages

Disadvantages

Network cameras

No video input hardware is required.

Some cameras provide progressive scan images.

Some cameras are megapixel (high resolution).

Systems can cover large distances and are readily expandable.

Relatively expensive, especially models with good enough low light performance for outdoor use.

Analogue cameras

Cameras are widely available and are inexpensive.

Most models have good enough low light performance for outdoor use.

Cameras can be very small.

Video input hardware is required, which makes it awkward to connect a large number of cameras.

All cameras provide interlaced images.

Systems are inflexible and expensive to expand.

FireWire or USB cameras

Connects directly to the computer.

All cameras provide progressive scan images.

Only suitable if the cameras are positioned close to the computer.

Poor performance in low light.

Bandwidth and driver issues when using several cameras at once.