Video surveillance is a controversial topic due to privacy issues. Yet, this is the case only because of irresponsible use. In reality, given the poor current social climate, the security it offers remains unparalleled. Hence, whether you are a homemaker or a business person, you would want a (CCTV) security system.
When putting together a home or business CCTV security system, high-quality cameras are fundamental in keeping an eye on your property. Hence, allow Comfort Electrical Services to help you safeguard your place by walking you through everything you need to know about CCTV security cameras before installing one!
What is a CCTV System?
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is almost synonymous with video surveillance. It is a system of cameras that allows video recording and monitoring without being publicly distributed. This is because the footage is sent via a closed circuit and transmitted over only a single channel. Since it remains private, only authorised persons have access to it.
What is the Purpose of a CCTV System?
CCTV systems heighten security in an area. Video recordings allow persons and organisations to keep an eye on their facilities and properties remotely. These can also be used as evidence in criminal investigations.
How Many CCTV Cameras does my property need?
The number of CCTV cameras you need vary depending on the size of your property and the level of security it requires. At a minimum, one camera at the main entrance is recommended. For added security, it is best to add more in entry points and areas you frequent.
What are the Different Types of CCTV Cameras?
CCTV cameras vary depending on their features. These include the location you may use them in as well as their power source, connectivity, design, and storage.
In terms of location, there are indoor and outdoor cameras. Indoor cameras are usually installed in enclosed spaces and require an internet connection. Outdoor cameras, on the other hand, are designed to withstand a range of temperatures and natural elements such as dust, rain, snow, and hail. For superior security, you can mix and match both types.
Under outdoor cameras comes a sub-type called video doorbells, which are specifically used on front doors. These usually include a doorbell setup and allow people to see and speak to the person at the front door remotely through a screen or a mobile device.
CCTV types may also depend on their power source. Wired cameras, typically placed indoors, are plugged into a wall outlet. Wireless cameras, on the other hand, require batteries, which can be replaced or recharged. Some wireless cameras do not need battery changes as they can source solar power.
Most CCTV cameras are Wi-Fi connected. Also known as smart security cameras, these have corresponding apps that allow them to control the camera, live stream the footage, and receive signals and notifications remotely. On the contrary, analog CCTV cameras store footage on an SD card or hard drive. These let the user download the recording and watch the video on a computer later.
You can also select a CCTV camera based on its shape, style, and additional functions. True to their name, box cameras look like the shape they’re named after. Dome cameras, on the other hand, have a spherical design. This allows them to provide a wider field of view and is usually placed on a ceiling’s centre. Bullet cameras are wireless and designed to record videos, usually from a room’s corner. Eyeball cameras look like dome cameras but have better night vision features, and can be positioned at any angle.
Pan, tilt, or zoom cameras have panning, tilting, and zooming functions that boost coverage. Lastly, hidden cameras are designed to look like anything other than a camera. These are usually disguised as another object, such as a teddy bear or pen.
When it comes to CCTV recording and storage systems, there are two most common types as well: network video recorders (NVRs) and digital video recorders (DVRs). Both come with physical hard drives for storage. However, cameras that support DVR send only raw footage, which needs to be digitised by the DVR. Cameras that are compatible with an NVR digitise the footage, which results in faster processing. A third type is cloud storage. While it does not need a physical hard drive, it relies heavily on the internet, which may cause recording delays.
What Features are Recommended for Home and Business CCTV Security Systems?
After determining the CCTV camera type you prefer, it is wise to further delve into their special features. Some devices have better zoom functions, field of view, night vision features, and built-in audio systems. Aside from these, you would want to consider the following:
- Video resolution – The latest security cameras have a resolution of 1080p HD. More advanced ones even have 2K or 4K resolution.
- HDR – The high dynamic range of a camera elevates the quality of an image by limiting glares and shadows of a footage. Hence, when covering outdoors, it is best to go for HDR CCTV cameras.
- Connectivity – If you are working with a Wi-Fi-compatible camera, make sure it has the same frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) as your router to avoid connectivity problems.
- Artificial intelligence – Aside from sending notifications and app compatibility, cameras can also recognize motion and alert property owners. Yet, most of these are false alarms brought about by harmless animals and objects.
Steer clear of these false signals by settling with cameras that have facial identification, object recognition, and licence plate recognition (LPR) features. Some cameras can also focus on certain activity zones while ignoring others that you specify to not cover. - Smart home integrations – Modern technology and innovative systems can work with home security systems, which levels up efficiency. Command-and-control systems such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant can support your security by controlling your camera for you per your voice command.
- Privacy – When deciding on a CCTV security system, it is best to choose a product that is free from a history of breaches. Hence, choose a brand that has superior two-factor authentication and encryption.
- Durability – For outdoor cameras, consider their IP rating. The IP rating, a two-digit number, tells their resistance to solid and liquid elements. The first digit (0 to 6) stands for its resistance to solids, while the second one (0 to 8) corresponds to liquids. The higher the numbers are, the more resistant the device is.
Installing Home Security Cameras
Installing CCTV cameras is very easy. Just plug it in an outlet, or mount it on a wall. If it is Wi-Fi connected, connect it to the internet and its corresponding app. However, if you have many cameras or you are installing one as part of a larger security system, it is best to seek assistance from a professional.
At Comfort Electrical, we believe security and safety are prerequisites to comfort and relaxation. For high-quality and prompt CCTV security systems services in Brisbane and Gold Coast, get in touch with our team today.
Check their other services like home automation Gold Coast, smart homes, cbus installation Gold Coast and cbus installation Brisbane.