Buying Cameras for CCTV Systems

The security camera is one of the most important elements of most CCTV systems. Choosing the right security camera will make the difference in whether the footage you capture will meet your needs. These are among the things you should consider when choosing a surveillance camera for the CCTV system you own or are planning to buy.

What Is Your Intent?

One of the major factors in deciding which CCTV camera to buy is the reason that you’re setting up surveillance in the first place. The more detailed you need your security footage to be, the more important it is to choose the right camera. If your main purpose is to discourage shoplifters or intruders and to inform you when there might be a problem, for example, you can get by with a fairly basic security camera. If, on the other hand, you believe that your security footage may be needed to identify someone, you’ll need a security camera with much higher quality and resolution, as well as one that can be set for the right focal distance for recording.

In addition to the quality, your intention will also dictate the configuration or style of camera you choose. Bullet cameras are obvious, and are designed to be mounted in plain sight. They’re the best choice if you want to deter wrongdoers with an obvious security system. They also make it obvious who and what is being watched, though, since they are completely visible. Dome cameras are hidden behind a lens, making them much less obvious, as well as making it harder for people to tell when they’re being observed. Finally, there are small surveillance camera choices, like nanny cams, that are meant for hidden recording. If you decide to use one of those, be sure to check the laws about hidden surveillance in your jurisdiction.

What Kind of System Do You Have?

When you’re adding a CCTV camera to existing CCTV systems, you need to make sure that the new camera will be compatible with the existing system.

Where Will the Surveillance Camera Be Installed?

The location of the cameras you hook up to CCTV systems is another factor to consider. Outdoor cameras require protective housing, not only to protect them from the weather, but also to protect them from impact damage and from being damaged by vandals or stolen. Indoor cameras are frequently less expensive because they don’t need the same protection.

Choosing the right security camera to for CCTV systems isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. If you have questions about the best choices for your needs, a professional installer will be happy to answer your questions and help you make the best decisions.