High definition transport video interface, or HD-TVI, is one of the most exciting new surveillance camera technologies in the consumer market today. While high definition surveillance has been available for some time with IP cameras and HD analog cameras, both technologies have drawbacks that have prevented widespread consumer adoption. TVI technology is simple and eliminates confusion, and is often compatible with the infrastructure already in place. That means users don't  have to learn how to configure an IP-based network or replace any cables -- or hire professionals to do these tasks for them. Install a TVI compatible DVR/NVR, climb the ladder once to replace your old camera with a new HD-TVI camera, and you're done. Ease of use is one reason that TVI, or HD-TVI, is quickly becoming the format of choice for many business and residential surveillance networks throughout the United States.


Techpoint, a privately held design, sales, and marketing firm based in San Jose, California, designed the TVI format. Techpoint sold the technology to chipset manufacturers that include Intersil, Hikvision and Hanbang. Surveillance equipment designers and manufacturers may purchase TVI chipsets from a number of vendors, which means lots of choices for the consumer and lower prices for TVI-compatible cameras and security DVRs.


Along with low unit cost and easy configuration, TVI has many features that simplify CCTV security networks. You will not find this combination of capabilities and ease of use with any current IP camera or HD analog 960H, AHD, CVI or SDI product.

  • High definition image resolution of 1080P or 720P (lossless)

  • Video transmission over coax or twisted wire

  • Coaxial cable runs of up to 500 meters (over 1600 feet)

  • Twisted pair (UTP) cable runs of up to 200+ meters (over 650 feet)

  • Can use low-cost cable (does NOT require high performance coax)

  • Real time imaging at 30 fps at 1080P, up to 60 fps at 720P

  • Zero transmission delay

  • RS485 data over coaxial cable

  • Audio signal over coaxial cable

  • TVI DVRs can handle mixed 720P/1080P signals


While TVI is a digital signal, it does not use internet protocol, so there are no IP configuration issues. There is no video delay to images you view on a local monitor, or those recorded on a TVI DVR. (Keep in mind that remote viewing on a Smartphone or other device will be subject to network lag just like any other streaming video product.) There is no video loss due to video compression, and TVI cameras are very resistant to signal interference that can degrade your image. Audio and data signals can go over the coax cable, so there are no additional wires to connect if you install a camera with a microphone or one that can pan, tilt or zoom using RS485 communication protocol. All of this makes a TVI surveillance network easy to set up and very attractive to do-it-yourselfers.


Surveillance systems are an important investment. The cost of upgrading an old surveillance network can escalate quickly, especially when you're working on installations that use multiple cameras. By providing high quality imaging and simplifying installation and configuration issues, TVI helps to eliminate one of the biggest challenges faced by many consumers – deciding the best way to invest their money.