Main stream, sub streams for ip cams

[master_tinkerer]

What is the purpose of having multiple streams with generally degrading resolution? I don't understand the big picture. Secondly , how do you tell how many streams ( connected ip addresses, I think) a camera will feed? I have 4 differentry outdoor ip ptz cams but don't really understand the way they work past connecting them up.
2 Axis, Hikvision, no name direct import. Didn't realize how different the controls were. Added BI which helped. Thanks, rob

 

[Myllerman]

Substream is good to use on mobile devices for example. Not only for requring less bandwith but also data use. Sure 4G can handle alot but when i am in another country and not on wifi it could get expensive with full stream. I still want to watch my feeds if there is an push alarm notice. Was on a walk in another country and got a push alarm, took only a few sec to watch the substreams. Very handy. On 3G and less substream is required for sure or the picture will have a hard time getting true.