What Are the Best Types of CCTV Systems?

The sheer growth of CCTV systems and security cameras in the last few years has resulted in an almost overwhelming choice, and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made about what is the most effective, and least intrusive, system to use.

CCTV systems have become a part of modern life, and are used pretty much everywhere, both as a form of surveillance and as a way of aiding security. Security cameras which were once thought of as huge machines can now be as small as a golf ball and be fitted to the side of your house so no one can see them. All this raises a number of questions that need to be carefully thought through and looked at prior to buying and installing any CCTV system or a security camera.

Having a real sense of what you need, and which system best meets it, will mean that you end up having an effective form of deterrence and a greater sense of safety. Considerations for a CCTV system are crucial before buying, but it is also really important to make sure the system is fitted by a qualified security professional who can offer advice as well if needed.

Indoor or Outdoor

This may seem a bit obvious, but the environment where the CCTV system is to be used is important. That is a big difference to having a security camera inside a supermarket to having one on top of a roof. If outdoor, the security camera needs to be both weatherproof and waterproof and, in a number of areas, heat-resistant.

The other thing to consider with an outdoor CCTV system is how wide an area of surveillance you want to cover. The wider the area, the more likely you are to need wide angle lens security cameras or a combination of cameras with wide-angle and telephoto lenses.

Video Resolution

Security cameras that you buy today can have incredibly high-quality video resolution, but the higher the quality, the more you pay for it. Whilst cameras differ, it is likely you will need a minimum of 1080p or higher for a really clear image.

It's really a question of working out what depth of video resolution you need — this will depend on where the CCTV system is based, and what it is being used for.

Night Vision

Making sure the security cameras have infrared capability is crucial. This means that they can be used in all different types of light during the day, and at night as well. Daytime quality, as well as nighttime quality, can vary depending upon weather conditions.

Most modern cameras are able to automatically adjust themselves to make sure the images they capture are clear enough.

Recording Capacity

Like any computer, it is crucial that the security cameras and CCTV system as a whole has sufficient recording capacity. You need to make sure that the system can be linked to a PC or Mac or some type of cloud system so that there is sufficient storage available.

Smartphones

The other thing to consider is whether the CCTV system can be monitored by a smartphone. For many people, this is a must, as there is often a need to be able to access both recording settings, and potential playback, through a smartphone.

The Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency

Whatever type of CCTV system and security camera you are thinking of getting, it is also important to remember that there may be local laws, regulations or best practice guidelines as to how they should be used.

These guidelines can be an integral part of making sure you make the most effective use of any CCTV systems you install.