Testing OnSSI's NetDVMS and Ocularis Client Lite

OnSSI, one of the most well known VMS providers, gained significant attention with their 2009 announcement of the Ocularis 'platform'. Ocularis's client with its 'slick' user interface was the most regularly noted element.

In this test, we examine OnSSI's NetDVMS system with their Ocularis Client Lite application (specifically NetDVMS 6.5f and Ocularis Client Lite 1.62). [Note: you can download and try it out yourself with a free 30 day trial of NetDVMS.]

Our key findings include:

• NetDVMS offers the same features as Milestone Enterprise with the same applications and layout. As such, the core strengths and weakness of the two systems are the same.
• Ocularis Client Lite is unique to OnSSI (not available from Milestone)
• Operators are unlikely to be overwhelmed or distracted due to the minimalist design of Ocularis Client Lite.
• However, Ocularis Client Lite may confuse and disorient operators as it is hard to know what each functionality does and where to access them. With training and regular use, operators may be able to overcome this.
• Ocularis Client Lite has notable limitations on PCs supported and sharing exported video.
• NOTE: We did not test the touchscreen features of the client. Those who use touchscreens or are interested in using them for surveillance monitoring may find this valuable.