CCTV Surveillance Systems and Wireless Video Security Cameras
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CCTV surveillance systems provide the user with an integrated solution for security and safety monitoring. Here are some key elements and features in a typical system.
CCTV surveillance systems provide the user with an integrated solution for security and safety monitoring. Here are some key elements and features in a typical system.
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CCTV cameras. A surveillance system uses one or more CCTV cameras. These cameras range in size, durability and performance. Cameras can be mini sized to be hidden in other objects or behind common household items like books, etc.
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The cameras can transmit their video signals either through a cable or may have wireless capabilities. The wireless option provides a great deal of flexibility in terms of installation but has limits in terms of transmission bandwidth.
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Cabling requirements. Cameras may utilize video cabling or wireless transmission. For cabling applications, the most common type is BNC or RCA connections. In addition some cameras can be connected through an Ethernet cable which also provides power to the camera. You need to properly plan out your cabling requirements before you begin your installation to avoid delays and extra cost.
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Monitors. Most modern CCTV surveillance systems use LCD monitors which range in size from 14" to 19". Prices can vary widely depending upon resolution, brightness, contrast, and other options desired on the monitor.
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The heart of the CCTV surveillance system is normally the monitoring component. This is typically a multi channel DVR. This type of device can control and record video from multiple cameras.
It can also compress the video signal and record it in digital form to a hard drive for later retrieval and review. Most of these DVR's provide a time and date stamp for the recorded videos. In addition the videos can be easily searched and reviewed.
Many controllers can also record audio which is an important security monitoring element as well. This is synchronized to the video.
It is also possible to remotely control, monitor, and review videos through an Internet connection anywhere in the world. This is especially useful for out of the way monitored locations. A user can monitor critical locations for the comfort of his home or office. This saves money and is a safety factor for many applications.
There are also lower cost DVR solutions which basically consist of a circuit board controller which integrates which a PC. This saves the cost of a dedicated DVR controller/recorder. And a PC solution can also integrate well with Internet based monitoring and control.
The ability to monitor and control the CCTV surveillance system remotely is also very convenient in that it allows multiple users to utilize the system. In this someone can ask one or more of his colleagues to inspect a video and obtain further analysis and review as required.
