Reliable People Detection Analytics With Server Based VMS

We have been deploying VideoIQ iCVR-HD units outdoors in remote locations with great success. However, we have an existing VideoIQ client who now wants two to guard the entries of his shop (as well as counting in future) and its a low eave so he is worried about intruders not only stealing his $2k camera but also taking all the recorded evidence with it.

Now we could record iCVR onto a server but that seems kind of redundant and not the most cost effective way.

Its a supermarket style store. Scene is 13m deep and 6m wide.

The alternative would need to be on par or better than VideoIQ in the key metrics of false positives and false negatives, but must be less costly (commensurate with the loss of edge HDD storage).

Interested in pure software solutions permitting use of standard HD IP OnvifCameras or edged based devices with no or SD onboard storage.

Have looked at VCAsys and Viasys as plugins to Exacq but would like some opinions from real world user experiences as unfortunately we are running out of time to test them in-depth.

If suggesting a pure software solution cost for 2 channels must be $2k or less.

If its an edge based solution cost of 2 cameras and software together must be less than $3k and the cameras need to be 2/3MP with WDR and ICR, also must be domes.