A simple guide to choosing between two FootfallCam deployment options.
Why This Matters
Both Pro2 and Centroid analyse video and deliver the same analytics layer. The main difference is how they’re deployed on site.
One-Glance Comparison
| Topic | 3D Pro2 | Centroid |
| Primary role | All-in-one people counter + analytics | Video hub/NVR replacement + analytics |
| 3D sensing | Built-in stereo 3D for ceiling mounting | Uses existing cameras (no onboard 3D) |
| Where it sits | Overhead at door/front-of-store | Back room/rack with network + storage |
| Camera inputs | Native (its own sensors) + can read a few IP streams | Many IP cameras; can ingest legacy/analog via DVR/encoder |
| VLM analytics | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Fast add-on of people counting where CCTV already exists | Consolidating CCTV + loss prevention + visitor analytics + SOP adherence |
| Typical swap-out time | ~1 hour (existing Ethernet at doorway) | Project-style rollout (replace/repurpose CCTV box) |
| Installer profile | Low-touch (like replacing a counter) | CCTV contractor (reuse existing skillset) |
| Cost stance | Lowest friction for analytics only | Best economics when you want “four functions in one” (CCTV, LP, Analytics, SOP) |
When to Use Pro2
Choose Pro2 when you already have a working CCTV/security setup and only want to add reliable people counting and shopper analytics.
- Add-on mode: Keep your CCTV as-is; mount Pro2 on the ceiling at entrances.
- Speed: Door Ethernet already wired? It’s often a one-hour swap for older people counters.
- Accuracy: Built-in 3D sensing handles entrances, U-turns, and tall ceilings well.
- Minimal change: No retraining of staff or rewiring of the back room.
Typical Scenarios
- Replacing legacy people counters (ShopperTrak/Brickstream/RetailNext, etc.) with a like-for-like device.
- Stores where security/VMS is owned by a different team and shouldn’t be touched.
- Pilot sites that need rapid proof of value with minimal IT involvement.
When to Use Centroid
Choose Centroid when you want your video box to do more than CCTV—and you’d like to reuse existing cameras and installers.
- Four functions: CCTV security, loss prevention (LP), visitor analytics, and SOP adherence—on one platform.
- Reuse what you have: Plug in existing IP cams; bring in analog via DVR/encoders.
- Operational fit: Your CCTV contractor can deploy/maintain it like an NVR.
- Economics: One box replaces multiple point systems over time.
Typical Scenarios
- New builds/renovations: No sunk cost—standardise on a single video platform that also does analytics.
- LP-heavy estates: Need video evidence, exception review, self-checkout monitoring, plus traffic analytics.
- Multi-zone analytics: Leverage existing shelf/ceiling cameras for heatmaps, dwell, queue KPIs, and SOP checks.
Quick Decision Guide
- Do you already have CCTV and just need people counting?
→ Pro2 - Do you want one box to cover CCTV + LP + Analytics + SOP?
→ Centroid - Is this a fast replacement of old door counters with Ethernet at the door?
→ Pro2 - Is this a new site (or a CCTV refresh) and you want to reuse cameras/teams?
→ Centroid
Deployment Notes
Pro2
- Ceiling-mounted at entrances; PoE; minimal cable work if door drops exist.
- Fastest path to accurate counts and “shopper analytics overlay.”
Centroid
- Lives in back room; connects to many cameras (IP + legacy via DVR).
- Plan like a CCTV job (network, storage, camera mapping, user roles).
- Best long-term TCO when you consolidate multiple functions.
Outcome Examples
- Chain with solid CCTV, weak counting → Pro2
Swap old counters at doors; keep CCTV untouched; go live in days. - Refit with LP focus → Centroid
Replace the NVR, feed existing cameras, add analytics and SOP audits. - Flagship store with many zones → Centroid
Use multiple in-store cameras for movement heatmaps, dwell, and queue KPIs.
FAQ
Do both support VLM?
Yes. Same analytics layer on top of video.
Can Centroid do people counting like Pro2?
Yes—by ingesting existing cameras. Pro2 adds dedicated 3D sensing at entrances.
Will Pro2 replace my NVR?
No. Pro2 is a specialised counter/analytics device. Keep your current CCTV.
Can Centroid take analog feeds?
Yes—via DVR/encoders. It’s designed to live where your CCTV lives.
Which is cheaper?
For analytics-only add-ons, Pro2 is usually lower friction and cost.
For multi-function (CCTV+LP+Analytics+SOP), Centroid is more cost-effective over time.
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