Five CCTV Camera Features to Look For

The price point has come down considerably on CCTV security systems and cameras. The best CCTV systems are only as good as the security camera you choose for them. Today’s surveillance cameras offer lots of features and options that can improve your overall security, if you know what to look for. These five key features can make a big difference in the quality of your CCTV security.

Night Vision or Low-Light Viewing

If your camera will ever be recording in low light situations, look for a camera with a low lux rating. The lower the lux rating, the better it can see in the dark. This can be important if you’re using CCTV to monitor outside. If you want a camera for total darkness, choose one with a 0 lux rating and a built-in IR illuminator.

Minimal Wiring

Even a wireless security camera requires a power outlet. If you’re installing a new security system, look for cameras that require minimal wiring. It’s always easier to pull one wire than to route two.

The Right Style

Your camera doesn’t have to be a fashion standout, but its style should suit its intended purpose. If your intent is to deter shoplifting or warn intruders away from your home, choose a bullet camera mounted very visibly. If you prefer your surveillance to be unnoticed, there are many covert security camera styles available.

Adjustability

Choose a security camera that suits your needs. If you only intend to monitor a limited area, a fixed surveillance camera may be just fine. If, on the other hand, you need to keep watch over a wider range or want to be able to get a closer look at suspicious activities, choose a PTZ security camera that can be panned, tilted and zoomed to get different views of the area.

Viewing

Consider whether you only want real-time monitoring or whether you need to record surveillance for later viewing. If the latter, choose a camera that can record captured images to a hard drive or DVR. Likewise, if you want to be able to view your camera feed remotely, choose a web access or IP CCTV camera that will allow you to access the video feed and control the camera from your Web browser, smart phone or other media device.

In addition to those key features, you should also consider such things as durability, picture quality and, for an outside CCTV security camera, weather resistance. When you take the time to  consider your needs, you’ll find it much easier to find the right surveillance camera for your security needs.