The main components of a CCTV system are cameras, video recorders and monitors. Understanding how each component works is key to designing your CCTV security system. Cameras capture light and convert it into a video signal that can be displayed on monitors or stored in DVRs (Digital Video Recorders). NVRs (Network Video Recorders) store IP camera footage as well.
Analog Cameras
Analog cameras are used in CCTV systems to transmit surveillance footage over coaxial cable. They are simple to set up and require less programming than IP security cameras. They also use less bandwidth than IP cameras, putting less pressure on your network. Lastly, they are cheaper than digital security cameras. Camera resolution is measured by TVL (television lines). Higher TVL cameras produce higher-quality images with crisper details. Using a low-resolution camera can cause an image to appear smudgy and blurred. This makes it difficult to identify potential suspects. Coverage Area is limited: With an IP system, you can’t put as many analog cameras into a surveillance area as possible. Depending on your needs, you can upgrade your current system or install a new one with IP technology. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your situation before deciding.
Digital Cameras
Digital cameras are the most common type of CCTV camera used in modern security systems. They offer several advantages over their analog counterparts, including fewer cables and better video resolution.
They also transmit data over coax instead of LAN, so they use less bandwidth and don’t tax your network. This means you can save money and still get a high-quality security system. Moreover, they’re a lot easier to upgrade than their analog counterparts. You can swap an old analog camera for a new one without replacing the entire system. Most importantly, digital cameras are more straightforward to troubleshoot security camera systems than analog ones.
Video Recorders
CCTV systems typically use video recorders, also known as digital video recorders (DVRs) or network video recorders (NVRs). They provide a central storage location for footage, which can be accessed remotely and reviewed later. DVR-based systems have been the most common form of security recording for a long time. These are reliable and can offer a variety of options when it comes to quality and performance.
NVR-based systems are the latest form of security recording, relying on network connections and IP cameras to record footage. These are highly flexible and scalable, meaning they can be placed anywhere on the property as long as an internet connection is available. The best DVR systems can record up to 16 CCTV security cameras at once, and most will come with hard drives that enable you to store and back up the footage they’ve recorded. Some will even support cloud storage and come with apps that enable you to monitor live streams from your device when you’re away from the site.
Monitors
Monitors are a key part of CCTV systems. They provide a way to view your cameras’ footage and help ensure everything is working correctly. These monitors can range from simple monochrome screens to high-definition HD displays. Some monitors also come with thermal imaging sensors, which can be used in situations normally not monitored by standard cameras. Typically, monitors for security cameras connect to video recorders (DVRs or NVRs) using HDMI or VGA cables. This allows you to view footage on a television and save it on your camera recorder to be accessed later. A good quality monitor is critical for any security system and should be chosen carefully. The quality of your monitoring can make a big difference to how your system performs and helps deter crime.
