When using a fast CPU - say, 3GHz - and network cameras similar to Axis 205, how many cameras can be supported by a single server, if it's running in motion detection mode at 320x240 and at a pretty low framerate (surveillance, not video conference)?
I realize that the answer depends on a lot of factors. I only need approximate numbers, I'm only trying to get an idea of how much hardware I need.

If the machine is dual-CPU, will ZoneMinder utilize both CPUs efficiently?

Hi.

The FFMPEG video encoding will utilize the both of CPU's - I saw a huge boost when doing the encoding with both CPU's enabled, rather then with one. I can't say for sure for other functions, as the zmc capturing daemon and the zms streaming application.