CCTV camera options: a homeowner’s guide to home security

Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been a common fixture in shops, pubs, car parks and other public places for years. Now, thanks to easier installation and falling prices, it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for security-conscious homeowners. 

CCTV cameras allow you to record anything and everything happening around your area.

Therefore, this is one of the most important factors in keeping home or business premises safe. Be it from unwanted visitors or thieves for instance. These cameras are cheaper, and quite effective in keeping your home safe, at least from imposters.

CCTV functions

CCTV cameras also help you keep track of whatever is happening in your neighbourhood.

However recording might not be needed at all times. 

This allows you to save disk space as recordings are only done when movement is detected.

Image clarity

It is possible to have remote monitoring, allowing someone with the proper equipment installed on their personal computer to look in on a video surveillance system at another location.

Remote monitoring

It is also possible to have remote monitoring. This allows someone to look in on a video surveillance system at another location.

Some surveillance cameras are designed to record sound as well as video, while others record only images.

Wired vs wireless cameras

CCTV cameras are available in both wired and wireless configurations.

wireless camera transmits video over airwaves to a receiver which captures and records the video.

Wireless cameras can be concealed more easily, they are inexpensive, user-friendly, can be positioned anywhere in range of the receiver, and does not require data transfer cable.

On the downside:

  • Wireless CCTV cameras can be subject to significant signal interference,
  • Are vulnerable to hacking or unauthorised remote access,
  • And still require a power source even though they are wireless.

They also may have legal regulations associated with their use if they are concealed, depending on location.

wired camera transmits the video over a hardwired connection to a receiver.

Wired CCTV is not prone to signal interference, which in addition makes it difficult for outsiders to hack into the feed, and is able to be positioned anywhere within reach of a power source.

While it has its advantages, wired CCTV also has disadvantages and it is expensive. Not only do the trailing cables pose a tripping hazard, but they also make it difficult to conceal the camera.

Wired CCTV cameras are also difficult to move after they’ve been installed.

What’s available on the market?

The standard cameras used in home surveillance come in two main types – dome cameras and bullet cameras.

With dome cameras, the camera unit is mounted inside a transparent dome which can be tinted to obscure the camera position.

Dome cameras come in a wide variety of forms. They can be analogue or IP, fixed or mobile. PTZ domes can rotate (pan), incline (tilt) or focus closer on objects of interest (zoom).

Bullet cameras protrude outward, sort of like the barrel of a gun, and are normally recommended for outdoor environments.

It is a good idea to consult with an industry professional to get an informed opinion on what will work in your specific situation.

What are the costs involved?

A standard CCTV system with four to eight cameras can cost anything between R10 500 and R15 000 for supply and installation, depending on supplier and brand respectively.

In conclusion, it is a good idea to consult with an industry professional to get an informed opinion on what will work in your specific situation.

Not only will a security professional be able to suggest what kind of equipment will work for you, he or she will also be able to give you good advice on where cameras can be placed.

Contact IT Vision for a quote to install and maintain your CCtv!

0137532874

Original post by: Property24