One of the key selling points for IP Video software is its greater scalability, flexibility and advanced functionality compared to traditional DVRs.
This test of DVTel's Latitude VMS version 6.0 provides an interesting look at the tradeoffs of this approach. While DVTel clearly has many powerful functionalities (redundancy, failover, scene stitching, case management, etc.), it demands far greater expertise for both admins and users than traditional systems.
We found:
- DVTel's advanced functionality enabled actions not possible in most DVRs and many VMS software packages
- DVTel's extensive options and settings enabled customizations not possible in most DVRs and many VMS software packages
- The complexity of the system to be challenging and likely difficult for traditional security managers and low voltage security technicians
- Resource consumption to be high and potentially destabilizing to the operation and performance of the system [DVTel responds that by design, ancillary tasks can be negatively impacted but core recording and systems tasks are prioritized - this was disclosed after testing was complete - see response from DVTel in the comments]
We think users should carefully consider these trade-offs and the important advantages and disadvantages of this system. Particularly concerning will be the traditional security professional, the most common users and most likely to find this system difficult.
Finally, DVTel's website is poor at providing documentation (e.g., their
documentation page only provides an email address and no documentation at all). Inside, based on a series of discussions with DVTel, we have provided more explanation and analysis than usual (e.g., over 50 minutes of video screencasts and product category breakdowns) to help members who may not be able to get a good background from public documentation.
Inside the Premium Section
Premium members may access the entire report including:
- 4 screencasts (51 minutes of video total) providing (1) usability, (2) administration, (3) investigations and (4) live monitoring
- Extensive analysis and commentary on the functionality and implementation of the VMS (answering 30 VMS evaluation questions on DVTels' Latitude's performance)
- Product features and pricing review for DVTel's full VMS line (including Solus)
- Recommendations on use and application
Options
