Are you considering the purchase of a CCTV camera
for security or surveillance purposes? There are a number of important
things to keep in mind when buying cameras for CCTV systems. There are
literally hundreds of security cameras and surveillance cameras on the
market today. Some of them will be useful for your security needs. Some
of them are little more than fun gadgets. Choosing the right
surveillance camera to go with your security system can be confusing for
the average customer. These tips from a top CCTV security expert can
help you make the right choice.
Evaluate Your Needs
The
first step in choosing the right security camera is to determine
exactly why you need it. Where will you put a surveillance camera? Will
it be indoors or outdoors? What use will you make of the surveillance
footage? Will you be recording video in the dark? The answers to these
questions are important in determining the features your camera will
should have.
Know the Standards
When
it comes to security cameras, you pay the price for high quality
images. One of the biggest factors in determining the quality of the
footage you record and see is the frames per second (fps) rate – the
number of images that the camera processes per second. The higher the
frame rate, the better the quality of the images – but keep in mind that
there is such a thing as overkill. If you’re doing security for a
casino or a bank, you’ll want a CCTV camera with 30 fps capability. If
you’re buying a security camera to scout out shoplifters and help manage
traffic in a mall, 15-20 fps is about right. If you’re providing a
security camera for home security, you don’t need much more than about 7
fps. If you choose something bigger, you’re just showing off – and
wasting money.
Check the Resolution
The
other factor that affects image quality is resolution, which is
measured in horizontal TV lines, abbreviated TVL. As with fps, the
higher the TVL, the better the picture will be. A normal camera range is
about 350 to 400 TVL. A high res CCTV camera may go as high as 480 or
500 TVL, which are an excellent choice for congested and high-crime
areas.
Do You Need Infrared?
IR
is the buzzword for high-tech surveillance camera applications.
Infrared cameras work even in pitch dark, so they’re ideal for 24/7
surveillance. Before you invest a rather significant chunk of change
into an infrared security camera, however, decide if you really need the
additional expense .
Color vs. B&W
Talk
to a security expert to discuss the differences between color and black
and wight picture quality. A color security camera will cost more but
can offer you better picture quality. Monochrome cameras, on the other
hand, deliver decent video quality, and can actually provide better
picture quality under some circumstances.
Lock for Package Deals Online
One
way to be sure you get the right security camera for your use is to buy
from an online site that sells package deals, which comes with
everything you need – DVR, security camera, cables and everything else.
You can be certain that all of your parts will work together and cut
your shopping time in half.
Finally,
check the warranty on the security camera you’re researching. The
warranty can make a big difference in your bottom line. Choosing CCTV
cameras may be confusing, but when you know a little bit about the
features and benefits of a security, you’ll find it much easier to
outfit your CCTV systems.
