One of the best kept secrets in the security industry is the power and potential of Bosch Video Management System. Below, you will find video discussions about the top BVMS advantages for end users and system integrators alike. Use the menu below to navigate between the videos, topic summaries ,and key take-away points.
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BVMS Benefits Introduction
The discussion below focuses on the challenges customers face when deploying video recording solutions and how BVMS (Bosch Video Management System) addresses these concerns through its unique architecture and feature set. Unlike traditional NVR-based systems, BVMS provides scalability, resilience, and ease of use while reducing hardware dependencies. The conversation highlights key benefits such as operator efficiency, forensic search capabilities, map-based tracking, and fault tolerance. Additionally, the ability to integrate Bosch cameras and storage solutions seamlessly into BVMS provides a robust and scalable security infrastructure.
Key Topics & Features of BVMS
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Challenges in Video Recording Deployments
- Customers face complexity in selecting the right solution.
- Need for high security, reliability, and ease of operation.
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BVMS vs. Traditional NVR Systems
- BVMS does not operate as a traditional NVR system.
- Can manage up to 2,000 cameras with just two servers.
- Uses iSCSI-based architecture rather than relying on direct server-based recording.
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Resilience & Fault Tolerance
- Ensures minimal video loss during system upgrades or downtime.
- Operator interface remains functional even if the server is down.
- Cameras can continue recording for up to four days without a server.
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Operator Client Interface
- Provides a seamless user experience.
- No operational impact even if backend infrastructure changes.
- Security officers can maintain focus on monitoring tasks without adjusting workflows.
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Forensic Search Capabilities
- Drastically reduces time needed to locate incidents in recorded video.
- Replaces manual fast-forwarding through hours of footage with rule-based searches.
- Allows faster video export for law enforcement or investigative purposes.
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Map-Based Tracking
- Enhances situational awareness for operators managing large facilities.
- Automatically selects and displays relevant nearby cameras.
- Eliminates the need for operators to memorize camera names and locations.
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Scalability & System Growth
- BVMS supports systems ranging from a few cameras to over 10,000.
- Adaptable for small remote sites or large multi-site deployments.
- Modular architecture allows for easy expansion without system overhauls.
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Core BVMS Architecture
- Management server, VRM (Video Recording Manager), and storage targets work independently.
- Uses iSCSI storage for direct camera-to-storage recording.
- Reduces reliance on redundant NVR hardware, improving cost-efficiency.
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End-to-End Bosch Solution
- Full Bosch ecosystem (cameras, software, and storage) maximizes performance.
- Designed for seamless integration, ease of use, and reliability.
- Supports live monitoring, recording, fault tolerance, and future expansion.

Unparalleled Resilience
The discussion below focuses on BVMS system resilience, particularly in scenarios where critical components such as the management server, video recording manager (VRM), or storage devices go offline due to scheduled updates or unexpected failures. Unlike traditional NVR-based systems, BVMS offers built-in failover mechanisms that ensure continuous live monitoring, playback access, and recording retention without requiring extra failover servers.
The demonstration walks through various failure scenarios, showcasing how BVMS maintains operations by dynamically adjusting recording targets, leveraging camera-side buffering, and restoring full functionality seamlessly once services are reconnected. The key takeaway is that BVMS is inherently designed to provide continuous surveillance operations with no video loss, allowing operators to maintain situational awareness and incident response regardless of system disruptions.
Key Topics & Features of BVMS Resiliency
Challenges of Traditional NVR Resiliency
- NVR-based systems lose access to cameras and recorded video when key services go offline.
- Customers require reliable failover solutions to prevent data loss during updates, maintenance, or failures.
BVMS vs. Traditional NVR Systems
- Supports up to 2,000 cameras with just two servers.
- Direct-to-iSCSI storage prevents reliance on centralized recording servers.
- Reduces need for redundant failover hardware, lowering costs.
Management Server Failure & Recovery
- The management server is responsible for configuration, licensing, and system alarms.
- If it goes offline:
- Operators retain live video and playback access.
- System alarms, analog PTZ control, and decoder control are temporarily lost.
- Operators receive notifications of the outage.
- Once reconnected, all system statuses and alarms return automatically.
Video Recording Manager (VRM) Failure & Recovery
- VRM acts as the "traffic cop" directing video storage allocation and load balancing.
- If VRM goes offline:
- Cameras continue recording using their last-known instructions.
- Operators retain full playback and live video through direct camera recall.
- System can function for up to four days (configurable to seven days) without VRM.
- Once reconnected, the VRM resumes managing storage allocations seamlessly.
Simultaneous Management Server & VRM Failure
- Even with both the management server and VRM offline, BVMS continues operating:
- Live video and PTZ control remain functional.
- Playback access is maintained via camera recall.
- Operators stay informed through system notifications.
iSCSI Storage Target Failure & Automatic Failover
- VRM dynamically reallocates cameras to available storage targets if one fails.
- Camera-side buffering ensures no recording gaps during storage transitions.
- Operators experience no interruptions in video playback or live monitoring.
Key Benefits of BVMS Resiliency
- Continuous recording and monitoring regardless of failures.
- No manual intervention needed—automatic system recovery.
- Reduces downtime risks for mission-critical and commercial sites.
- Eliminates need for redundant failover servers found in NVR-based systems.
- Ensures operators always have situational awareness for incident response.

End-to-End Solution Benefits for End Users
This discussion highlights the advantages of using an end-to-end Bosch surveillance solution, which includes Bosch cameras, Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), and associated hardware. The conversation emphasizes the benefits of having a unified system from a single manufacturer, such as seamless integration, optimized performance, streamlined support, and long-term reliability. The speakers discuss Bosch’s high-quality optics, low-light performance, compatibility across components, and the value of a five-year warranty. Additionally, they highlight the durability of Bosch products and how the longevity of cameras and software updates ensures continued reliability and functionality over time.
Key Topics
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Challenges of Mixed Surveillance Systems
- Issues with compatibility across different manufacturers
- The complexity of troubleshooting with multiple vendors
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Benefits of an End-to-End Bosch Solution
- Full system integration from cameras to storage and monitoring
- Optimized communication and data flow within the system
- Simplified support with a single point of contact
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Bosch Camera and BVMS Advantages
- High-quality optics and low-light performance
- Seamless compatibility between hardware and software
- Advanced features like HDR and Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA)
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Reliability and Warranty
- Unified five-year warranty across the system
- Long product lifespan with continuous software updates
- Customer feedback highlighting Bosch cameras’ durability
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Resiliency of BVMS
- Enhanced security through system-wide integration
- Scalability and adaptability for evolving security needs
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Customer Considerations
- The value of a fully integrated Bosch solution for long-term reliability
- Ease of system management and reduced operational complexity

Operator Client Overview
This discussion provides a detailed walkthrough of the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) Operator Client, focusing on its user interface, features, and operational benefits. The conversation covers logging into the system, viewing live and recorded footage, managing alarms, using PTZ controls, and leveraging favorites and bookmarks for efficient surveillance. Key highlights include the seamless transition between live and playback modes, user-defined access levels, system health monitoring, and forensic search capabilities. The session emphasizes BVMS’s intuitive design, flexibility in managing surveillance feeds, and tools for streamlining incident response and investigations.
Key Topics
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User Interface & Login Process
- Access via IP address or DNS hostname
- Individual user credentials with permissions
- Configuration download on login
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Logical Tree & Camera Management
- Organizing cameras into folders for easy access
- Viewing cameras through maps with interactive previews
- Drag-and-drop functionality for quick camera selection
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Integration with Third-Party Systems
- Ability to add web-based third-party interfaces
- Direct access to system health tools like VRM Monitor
- Forensic dashboard integration
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Viewing Panes & Customization
- Dynamic resizing of camera views
- User-specific access control for number of camera feeds
- Full-screen mode for static monitoring setups
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Alarm Management & System Health Monitoring
- Alarm pane displays real-time system alerts
- Assigning priority levels to different alarm types
- Customizing alarms with colors and audio notifications
- Ability to force users out of full-screen mode for critical alerts
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PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Controls
- Manual and automated PTZ controls
- Optical and digital zoom functionality
- Predefined camera positions for quick navigation
- Auto-pan feature for covering wide areas
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Favorites & Bookmarks
- Saving frequently used camera views for quick access
- Exporting/importing favorites for easy sharing between users
- Creating bookmarks to mark key moments in video footage
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Live vs. Playback Mode
- Unified interface for both modes, reducing learning curve
- Synchronized playback of multiple cameras
- Adjustable playback speed and frame-by-frame review
- Colored timeline indicators for alarms and motion detection
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Incident Investigation & Forensic Search
- Jump-to-time function for quick review of specific events
- Exporting video footage for reports and investigations
- Planned deep dive into forensic search in future discussions

Architecture and Scalability
This discussion focuses on the scalability of the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), highlighting its ability to grow from a small, single-unit system to a large, distributed enterprise solution. The conversation covers the different components of BVMS, including management servers, video recording managers (VRM), storage options, user interfaces, and configuration tools. The flexibility of BVMS allows users to start with a small setup and expand as their needs grow, repurposing hardware for additional storage or transitioning to a multi-server environment. Enterprise capabilities enable centralized management across multiple locations, while Software Maintenance Agreements (SMAs) ensure continuous updates, cybersecurity protection, and technical support.
Key Topics
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Scalability of BVMS
- Supports expansion from a small system to an enterprise-level solution
- Can integrate new storage and cameras over time
- Flexibility in deployment across various business needs
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Core Components of BVMS
- BVMS Management Server: The central brain of the system, managing health monitoring, user rights, and system configuration
- VRM (Video Recording Manager): Manages storage allocation without processing video data, increasing efficiency
- Network Attached Storage (NAS): Direct camera-to-storage communication eliminates reliance on a central server
- User Interface (Operator Client & Configuration Client): Provides tools for monitoring, playback, and system management
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Entry-Level BVMS Deployment
- DVAR IP All-in-One Units: Small-scale, standalone units with built-in BVMS and storage
- Repurposing Hardware: Initial units can be reconfigured later for additional storage or support larger deployments
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Transitioning to Larger Systems
- Small systems can evolve into multi-server environments
- Dedicated workstations for better performance in large setups
- BVMS Pro supports up to 2,000 cameras and 4 petabytes of storage
- Distributed storage ensures local recording without WAN dependency
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Enterprise Deployment
- Multiple locations can be integrated into a single system
- Local users can monitor individual buildings, while enterprise users oversee entire networks
- Efficient alarm aggregation for centralized security management
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Resiliency & Data Flow
- Unlike traditional NVRs, Bosch’s architecture prevents data loss by sending video directly to storage
- Reduces reliance on central servers for video transmission, ensuring continued operation even if a server fails
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Software Maintenance Agreements (SMAs)
- Provides cybersecurity updates and software patches
- Ensures compatibility with new camera features and system improvements
- Grants access to Bosch Technical Support and training resources

iSCSI and VRM Advantage
This discussion provides an in-depth look at iSCSI storage and Video Recording Manager (VRM) within Bosch’s BVMS (Bosch Video Management System). It explains how VRM efficiently manages storage by balancing data loads, preventing recording interruptions, and enabling seamless technology upgrades. Unlike traditional NVR-based systems, BVMS allows direct camera-to-storage communication, eliminating server bottlenecks and enhancing system resilience. The conversation covers scalability, storage expansion, fault tolerance, and the differences between economic and enterprise-level storage solutions. VRM’s ability to support up to 4 petabytes of storage and seamlessly integrate new storage without disrupting operations makes it a highly efficient and scalable video management approach.
Key Topics
VRM & iSCSI Storage in BVMS
Scalability & Storage Expansion
- Supports up to 4 petabytes per VRM server
- Multiple VRMs can be deployed for larger enterprise systems
- Adding new storage is seamless:
- Turn on a new iSCSI unit
- Format and add it to the VRM pool
- Mark old storage as "read-only" for uninterrupted access to archived footage
- Decommission old storage once retention time is met
Resiliency & Fault Tolerance
- Automatic redistribution of recording tasks if a storage unit fails
- No manual intervention needed to ensure continued recording
- Supports planned and unplanned system shutdowns without losing video data
Comparing BVMS to Traditional NVR-Based Systems
- BVMS VRM Architecture:
- No data flows through a server (direct camera-to-storage)
- Minimized hardware requirements (one VRM server can handle massive storage pools)
- Easier upgrades without affecting operations
- NVR-Based Systems:
- Requires manual balancing of storage
- If the server fails, video recording stops
- Expanding storage often requires splitting or reconfiguring the system
Storage Solutions: Economic vs. Enterprise-Level
- Economic iSCSI Storage:
- Cost-effective and suitable for smaller deployments
- Uses Windows-based iSCSI targets
- Enterprise NetApp Storage:
- High-performance, data-center-grade storage
- Handles higher throughput and more direct camera connections
- Reduces physical rack space needs
Monitoring & Management
- VRM Dashboard: Provides real-time system insights (storage health, retention estimates, alerts)
- BVMS Integration: Can embed VRM monitoring tools into the user interface for quick diagnostics

Architecture Explained - Where Does the Data Go?
This discussion provides a deep dive into the architecture of Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), highlighting its resilience, security, and efficient data management. Unlike traditional NVR-based systems, BVMS uses iSCSI storage and Video Recording Manager (VRM) to enable direct camera-to-storage recording, eliminating server bottlenecks and ensuring continuous operation even during failures. The video details how BVMS handles live and recorded video streaming, the advantages of VRM’s distributed storage model, and best practices for designing high-reliability surveillance networks. It also discusses multicast vs. unicast network designs and the importance of collaboration between security and IT teams for optimal system performance.
Key Topics
BVMS System Components & Data Flow
- Key Elements: Cameras, iSCSI storage, servers, workstations, and the network.
- Live Video Streaming:
- Operator requests video → Workstation retrieves rights from BVMS management server.
- Workstation directly requests video from the camera.
- Camera sends video directly to the workstation (bypassing BVMS and VRM servers).
- Playback of Recorded Video:
- Workstation queries VRM for storage block locations.
- iSCSI storage sends video directly to the workstation (not through VRM).
The Role of VRM & iSCSI Storage in BVMS
- VRM is the database manager, tracking where video is stored in iSCSI storage.
- VRM never processes video data; it only manages storage allocation.
- If VRM goes offline, cameras can still access stored video using their internal block list (though with limited retention).
Advantages of iSCSI Over NVR-Based Systems:
- No folders or indexed files like traditional NVRs.
- Uses block-based storage, making it impossible to manually access or delete video files.
- Higher security: No single place where all video data is stored.
Storage Expansion & System Resilience
- VRM dynamically allocates storage pools and prevents overwrite until retention periods are met.
- Seamless technology upgrades:
- New storage can be added without interrupting operations.
- Old storage can be set to “read-only” until retention periods expire.
- Supports up to 4 petabytes of storage per VRM.
- Failover & redundancy:
- Cameras pre-cache block lists 4-7 days in advance, allowing uninterrupted recording even if VRM fails.
- VRM automatically reassigns cameras to alternative storage in case of failures.
System Design Considerations for Reliability
- Balancing data throughput:
- Bosch NetApp storage supports higher throughput than traditional DVR IP units.
- Systems requiring maximum uptime should distribute storage loads across multiple devices.
- Failover Planning:
- If a storage unit goes offline, remaining units must handle all video data without exceeding capacity.
- Best practice: Use more controllers and smaller hard drives to increase redundancy.
Importance of Security & IT Collaboration
- Security and IT departments must work together to prevent network disruptions.
- IT network updates can impact security system performance.
- VRM is constantly monitoring system health, ensuring video is recorded properly.
- If network inconsistencies occur, VRM rapidly reassigns storage, but excessive disruptions can cause system instability.
Unicast vs. Multicast Network Designs
- Unicast Network (Standard Design):
- Every workstation retrieves video directly from the camera, increasing network load.
- Bandwidth demand doubles for each additional user.
- Multicast Network (For Large-Scale Deployments):
- Cameras send video to the switch once, and the switch distributes video to multiple workstations.
- Reduces network load significantly in large-scale systems.
- Requires more complex and expensive networking infrastructure.

Map-based Tracking
This discussion explores the mapping and map-based tracking features in Bosch Video Management System (BVMS). The mapping tool provides a visual representation of security assets, allowing operators to quickly navigate between cameras, alarms, and other integrated devices. Map-based tracking enhances situational awareness by dynamically suggesting and displaying the next logical camera view, making it easier to track movement across a facility. The integration of PTZ cameras allows for automatic repositioning based on map interactions. These features improve operator efficiency, enhance response times, and streamline incident tracking in both small and large-scale security environments.
Key Topics
Mapping Features in BVMS
- Logical Tree & Maps Integration:
- Maps can be added to the logical tree alongside cameras, alarms, and other security devices.
- Operators can double-click or drag maps into the viewing pane for quick access.
- Types of Maps Supported:
- Offline Maps: Floor plans, site layouts (JPEG, PDF, etc.).
- Online Maps (HERE Maps Integration): Provides a real-time, zoomable representation of large campuses or multi-site locations.
- Active Displays & Status Indicators:
- Cameras and other devices change color based on motion detection or alarms.
- Provides a real-time overview of security system activity.
Multi-Layer & Multi-Building Support
- Up to 100 layers supported within a single map structure.
- Operators can separate internal and external views.
- Buildings and areas can be aggregated within a larger campus view, improving navigation.
Map-Based Tracking for Incident Response
- Enhanced Camera Navigation:
- Allows operators to track individuals or vehicles without searching through a logical camera tree.
- Algorithm automatically suggests the next nearest cameras based on movement.
- Clicking on a suggested camera instantly updates the central view while repopulating surrounding suggestions.
- Uses for New & Experienced Operators:
- Helps new operators unfamiliar with camera locations.
- Reduces confusion during high-stress incidents by guiding users to the next camera in sequence.
- Alarm & Event Integration:
- Map-based tracking can be automatically triggered by alarms (e.g., motion detection in hallways).
- Operators can immediately activate tracking mode when responding to a security event.
PTZ Camera Integration & Automation
- Automated PTZ Control:
- PTZ cameras automatically adjust when operators click a map location.
- Uses pre-configured field-of-view settings to align with static camera positions.
- Configuration Simplicity:
- Operators define PTZ positions in the configuration client.
- Once set, the tracking assistant takes over, allowing for seamless PTZ movement when switching views.

Multi-Camera Forensic Search
This discussion explores the Forensic Search capabilities within Bosch Video Management System (BVMS), focusing on how operators can efficiently retrieve evidence from recorded video. Unlike traditional NVR-based systems, BVMS searches metadata instead of raw video files, allowing for faster, more precise results. The multi-camera forensic search feature enables users to search across multiple cameras simultaneously, significantly improving investigation efficiency. New un-synced playback, bookmarking, and export features further streamline forensic investigations by allowing asynchronous playback, customized video exports, and seamless evidence sharing.
Key Topics
Advantages of Forensic Search in BVMS
- Metadata-Based Search:
- BVMS searches metadata instead of video footage, making it significantly faster than motion-based searches in traditional NVR systems.
- Allows for granular search criteria without manually reviewing hours of footage.
- Multi-Camera Search Capability:
- Searches multiple cameras simultaneously, applying the same criteria across different locations.
- Helps uncover additional incidents that may have gone unnoticed.
- Faster Investigations:
- Eliminates the need for scrolling through sped-up video.
- Saves hours of manual review by identifying relevant footage instantly.
Two Types of Forensic Search in BVMS
- Individual Camera Search:
- Each camera can be configured with unique search rules (e.g., line crossing, object detection).
- Results are shown on a single timeline, making it easier to review incidents across cameras.
- Common Camera Search:
- Applies one search rule across all selected cameras, simplifying broad investigations.
- Ideal for tracking a person or object moving through multiple areas without specifying rules for each camera individually.
Key Forensic Search Features
- Search Criteria Options:
- Line crossing: Detects when a person or object crosses a virtual boundary.
- Object in field: Searches for specific objects (e.g., a person in a restricted area).
- Person detection: Finds all instances where a person appears in a scene.
- Results Visualization:
- Search results appear as white markings on the timeline, allowing for quick navigation.
- Users can sort search results by time or camera for better review.
Un-synced Playback for Investigations
- Traditional Synchronized Playback:
- Previously, all cameras in playback mode were synced to the same timestamp.
- New Un-synced Playback Mode:
- Each camera can be paused or played independently, helping track a subject’s movement across multiple areas.
- White markings on the timeline show where each camera is positioned in the investigation.
- Allows for simultaneous analysis of different moments in time from different cameras.
Enhanced Bookmarking & Evidence Export
- Bookmarking Enhancements:
- Bookmarks now retain forensic search results and playback settings, making it easier to resume an investigation.
- Bookmarks can be shared with supervisors or security teams for further analysis.
- Video Export Improvements:
- Users can now export video with custom time frames based on un-synced playback settings.
- Previously, exports were limited to a fixed time range across all cameras.
- Now, operators can export different time segments per camera, ensuring precise evidence collection.
- Batch Export for Multiple Cameras:
- Allows for bulk exporting of multiple short video clips instead of exporting each camera individually.
- Saves significant time when preparing evidence for investigations.
Practical Example: Tracking an Intruder
- The forensic search tool was used to track a suspect’s movement through an office:
- Person detection search identified the suspect at different locations.
- Unsynced playback allowed tracking across multiple cameras without manually jumping between views.
- Bookmarks were created to document key moments in the timeline.
- Exported video clips provided a step-by-step visual record of the suspect’s movements.

Video Streaming Gateway (VSG) for 3rd Party Cameras
This discussion explores how Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) integrates with third-party cameras using Video Streaming Gateway (VSG). While BVMS is optimized for Bosch cameras, VSG enables customers to incorporate non-Bosch cameras into their system, providing a cost-effective migration path. The VSG service runs on Windows-based servers and allows third-party cameras to communicate with BVMS via ONVIF or RTSP streams. Though VSG introduces some NVR-like characteristics, BVMS still maintains its fault tolerance, load balancing, and scalability via Video Recording Manager (VRM). Bosch also provides compatibility testing and recommendations for third-party devices to ensure smooth integration.
Key Topics
Integrating Third-Party Cameras into BVMS
- Customers may want Bosch cameras but have an existing investment in third-party cameras.
- BVMS can integrate these cameras via Video Streaming Gateway (VSG).
- VSG enables compatibility via two methods:
- ONVIF: Supports live streams, motion detection, and alarm events.
- RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol): Basic streaming option for non-ONVIF cameras.
What is Video Streaming Gateway (VSG)?
- VSG is a Windows-based service that acts as a bridge between BVMS and third-party cameras.
- Each VSG instance can support up to 32 cameras.
- VRM still manages recordings, but instead of per device, it does so per VSG instance.
How VSG Works:
- Third-party camera → VSG Server → VRM → iSCSI Storage → BVMS.
- Unlike native Bosch camera integrations, video must pass through VSG before reaching storage.
- Introduces some NVR-like behavior but retains BVMS’s load balancing and storage fault tolerance.
Where is VSG Installed?
- Runs on a Windows-based machine (physical server or virtual machine).
- System design considerations:
- Avoid overloading a single server with too many devices.
- Use multiple VSG instances for scalability and redundancy.
Bosch’s Compatibility Testing & Recommendations
- Bosch maintains a list of tested and verified third-party cameras.
- If a camera is not on the list:
- Customers can send the camera to Bosch for compatibility testing.
- Bosch evaluates live video, PTZ functionality, and recording capabilities.
- If successful, the camera receives a "green light" for use in BVMS.
Can BVMS Work Without Bosch Cameras?
- Yes, some customers run BVMS exclusively with third-party cameras.
- VSG serves as a bridge for those looking to transition to Bosch cameras gradually.
- This approach allows phased upgrades based on budget and operational needs.

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