What makes video HD?
Video can be recorded in many resolutions and can also be compressed through a variety of different methods to make file sizes smaller thus improving transfer speeds and reducing the overall cost of storage. At times, the term “high resolution” can be confused with true high definition video.
HD video is 1280 x 720 or 1920 x 1080, referring to the number of pixels used to create the image being recorded. Commonly, these are referred to as 720p or 1080i/p respectively. Even with the latest video compression technology, HD video files are still considerably larger than SD files. Below is an example of video file sizes using the latest H.264 main profile compression. Keep in mind not all in-car video systems are using this compression, which means file sizes for the same resolution could easily be much larger.
- 1 Hour SD video (720x480) = 1.0 GB
- 1 Hour HD Video (1280x720) = 2.3 GB
- 1 Hour HD Video (1920x1080) = 5.0 GB
Recording in HD will provide extremely clear video evidence, allowing you to read license plates, determine make, model and color of vehicles, and in some cases, even gather key details of a suspect’s appearance. Therefore the technology is very desirable when it relates to evidence, but agencies need to be informed of the financial impact of HD video so they can choose a manageable and affordable system.
Marc Palmieri | Technical Sales Director WatchGuard Video
Marc joined WatchGuard Video in January of 2006 as the Regional Sales Manager for the Lower Northeast Territory. His background in security camera sales and computers made him an ideal candidate to build this new territory for WatchGuard. Marc quickly grasped the technology, along with the demands of the industry, and immediately became committed to serving the law enforcement community. Marc spent more than two years developing and implementing a successful sales strategy, and in August of 2008 he moved to Florida to manage the Southeast Territory. During his four years in the Southeast, Marc was able to build on the prior success of this territory and helped WatchGuard maintain its position as the leading in-car video manufacturer utilized throughout the law enforcement industry. In July of 2012 Marc relocated to WatchGuard Video Headquarters in Allen, Texas to assume the position of Technical Sales Director. Marc’s key roles and responsibilities include bid and RFP responses, contract and project management, as well as various responsibilities with product management and training.
