Several factors influence how much footage can be stored and how long it can be kept.
- Video Resolution: Higher resolution video files (e.g., 1080p, 4K) take up more space. While higher resolutions provide better image quality, they also require more storage. Lowering the resolution can help maximize storage, though at the cost of video clarity.
- Frame Rate: The frame rate of a camera determines how many frames are captured per second. A higher frame rate (e.g., 30 frames per second) results in smoother video but consumes more storage. Reducing the frame rate to 15 or 20 fps can help extend the retention period.
- Compression Technology: Modern cameras use compression technologies like H.264 or H.265, which reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality. This is an effective way to maximize storage while maintaining good video clarity.
- Motion Detection Settings: Continuous recording takes up more space than motion-triggered recordings. If your system is set to record only when it detects motion, it will use less storage than if it records non-stop. This is particularly useful for outdoor cameras where activity is sporadic.
- Number of Cameras: The more cameras you have, the more storage you’ll need. A multi-camera system will consume significantly more space than a single-camera system, so it’s essential to plan your storage capacity accordingly.
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