Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
CCTV is usage of video cameras fixed on a strategic position to allow transmission of live video feeds to a designated set of output monitors. Unlike the common television broadcasting signal which is done to the public openly, CCTV uses point-to-point/multipoint connection and mostly used for surveillance systems in designated areas that may be in need of extra security or continuous monitoring. In this article, we shall learn more about CCTV cameras and their uses in the current digital world.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of CCTV
- CCTV doers enhance the current security system and offers safety which is include,
- 24/7 surveillance
- Access in remote places
- Acts as evidence in case of an incidence
- Puts off criminal activities
- Most of time, it offers insurance
Disadvantages of CCTV
- In work places, the privacy of employees maybe interfered with if there stay under CCTV Surveillance which may lead to negative impact and productivity.
- The cost of acquiring and installing a CCTV Camera system cannot be ignored. Recording equipment, monitors, cameras and technological updates are financial intensive for business.
CCTV Designs/Types of CCTV Cameras
- Bullet Camera
This is a camera that have cylindrical shape which are designed with an adjustable wall mounting that. Bullet cameras have the strength of covering longer distances views. Besides, it has protective cases that keep off dust and other natural elements. This camera is best suited for outdoor installations and deters attempting onlookers.
- Dome camera
This is one of the fashionable CCTV Cameras which easily blend with the place installed and its dome shape makes it hard to identify which side it facing. Therefore, its design offers deterrence features to onlookers. Also, they are easy to install and have IR features to assist in low light both interior and exterior environments.
- Turret Camera
Turret Camera is also known as flat-faced dome camera due to a ball and socket in its design that offers rotation capabilities. This camera allows for more than one view direction with only one camera. Most of the time, common turret surveillance cameras are powered by PoE (Power over Ethernet). However, this camera limits wireless camera connections.
IP Surveillance System
IP based Cameras make it possible to achieve an IP Surveillance System that incorporates use of digital cameras that receives feeds and transmits frames via a IP network. For it to work, it operates within a local area network (LAN). It is important to note that IP camera are supported by network video recorder (NVR) which has to be connected in the network.
Analogue Surveillance System
This kind of surveillance system captures video feeds which are not digital and get then transmitted to Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or Video Management System through coaxial cables. The advantage of analogue surveillance can transmit the data over long distances however, they can only be accessing on-site interfaces.
Fixed Lens Camera, Varifocal Lens Camera and PTZ Camera
- Fixed Lens Camera
Such camera normally comes with a pre-configured lens setting and only few parts that can be moved during installation. Fixed lens camera is more affordable for small business enterprises it offers general protection and used with readily available applications.
- Varifocal Lens Camera
This kind of camera has a lens that is adjustable focal length, level view angle and zooming capabilities. It allows the you to have the most perfect view of the scene which is supported by variant varifocal lenses available.
- PTZ Camera
A pan-tilt-zoon CCTV Camera has the capability to pan horizontally, tilt vertically and zoom in and out. It is primarily made to function in expansive areas that require 180 to 360 degrees surveillance. Based on technology, you can automatically set the camera to monitor as per set schedules.
CCTV Video Recorders (DVRs and NVRs)
Both NVR and DVR are equipment used during Surveillance cameras installation and is determined based on what kind of camera and purpose one to achieve. NVR and DVR differs in how they process recorded raw video data. For NVR, it does encode and processes video data at the recording camera before transmitting to the storage and external view. On the contrary, DVR does conversion of analogue footage to a digital footage.
Resolution and Megapixels
In digital cameras, resolution pixel are smallest pieces of information captured by a CCTV Camera and represent different color arranged in tiny squires. After they have been processed by the camera engine, they reveal visual footage. Whie megapixel measures the number of pixel (resolution) of CCTV Camera imaging sensors which is indicated in millions of pixels (MP)
Factors to Consider Before Installing CCTV
- Camera type to be installed
- Area to be covered by the camera
- Camera positioning
- CCTV Surveillance system power supply and backup
- Maintenance of CCTV Cameras
- The quality of the Image and Video
- Setup procedures
What Type of Camera to Buy?
The kind of camera you should buy is entirely demined by your preferences and needs. Different cameras are suitable for different needs and position to be fitted. Also, you can incorporate different cameras into a single surveillance system. It’s important to note that no camera is superior that the other rather, specifications differ.
What To Look for In A CCTV Camera Security system features
- Night Vision
This is a feature you should consider while buying a CCTV camara that will assure you recording and capture of clear images which are perfect in low right environments especially at night.
- Starlight Technology
CCTV camera with starlight technology is designed to allow color, black and white vision depending on the intensity of lighting and produce better images unlike average camera without this technology.
- Remote Access
This where one is able to access CCTV camera footage wherein a remote location especially using smartphone apps or computer. Through remove access, you are able to access the premise and assess the status and safety while away. With advancement in technology, better remove access controls to areas under surveillance will be unleashed.
- Smart Detections
Camera with smart detection features is capable of analyzing movements and capture events that will identify any intrusion to premise without access.
- Expandability
Surveillance System must proof the cost of investment and convince future adaptability that are likely to come upon even with differing security needs.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Camera with PoE does not need power tethering connections within the systems but rather draws power over the ethernet cable. This reduces cost of surveillance cameras installation
In conclusion, Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems is here with us to give you the most versatile solutions that aligns with your surveillance requirements based on the needs. The provision of live feed recording and monitoring will give the best security updates.