In modern conditions, CCTV cameras are increasingly perceived not as a sign of wealth, but as a forced measure to protect an apartment and private property. With their help, it is possible to expand the capabilities of security systems and reduce the likelihood of penetration into protected areas. To equip a tracking system based on them, you will need to familiarize yourself with the varieties and features of the choice of electronic devices.
Purpose of CCTV cameras
Security systems based on surveillance cameras are designed to protect any objects by video monitoring of their status online. The information received is subsequently analyzed and then processed and stored on digital media. The video surveillance for the house itself is organized in such a way that the cameras cover the most important zones with the values located on them. Usually they are installed so that the monitor clearly shows parking lots, shelves and showcases in sales areas, as well as warehouse space, etc.
In addition, the functions of surveillance cameras, for example, include video monitoring of the places of possible penetration of the protected object. They are used to monitor the condition of passageways, entrance and exit doors, fencing structures, gates and similar structures. In industrial plants and train stations, as well as in airports and work offices, a video surveillance camera is used as a means of monitoring moving objects.
Classification by video signal transmission method and purpose
The following types of video cameras are used to work as part of security systems:
- analog models or optical devices that transmit a picture over a coaxial cable to a video recorder;
- IP cameras are digital or network monitoring devices.
- HD-SDI optics, which is a combination of analog and IP video cameras.
Analog samples work in the AHD, HD-TVI, HD-CVI standards, allowing you to get a picture in high quality. Their web-based counterparts are equipped with ultra-sensitive sensors that digitize the image and send it directly to a Web server. This eliminates the need to lay a separate cable and allows you to monitor the object from anywhere with Internet access. Hybrid HD-SDI cameras form a fully digital image, after which, bypassing the processing stage, it is transmitted to the server via fiber optic or coaxial cable. The signal obtained in this way is encoded directly on site in accordance with a predetermined program.
According to their purpose, video cameras are divided into indoor and outdoor. The first ones are installed inside premises and protected objects and have a limited range. The latter are intended for outdoor installation and monitoring of large areas.
Classification by construction
In accordance with the design, outdoor and indoor video surveillance cameras are divided into the following types:
- domed;
- case;
- swivel;
- compact.
The first ones have a plastic body made in the form of a hemisphere or in the form of a ball placed in a glass. With the help of case models, it is possible to easily disguise the observation device as a lighting device. The universal mount allows you to orient the rotary products in a fixed direction or adjust them for full coverage of the controlled area.
Cabinet products are durable, but are suitable for indoor use only. They can be cylindrical with a protective visor, or modular. Some models do not have a case at all and are designed to perform specific functions. They are sometimes mounted in a special heated casing in winter.
Miniature and compact samples of cameras are small in size and are well suited for covert video surveillance.
Anti-vandal devices have a durable metal alloy body. The lens of such products is protected by impenetrable armored glass.
Classification by additional functions
According to the availability of additional functions, all cameras on the market are divided into the following types:
- operated as part of the "smart home" system;
- wireless Wi-Fi video surveillance cameras for home with remote access;
- with a built-in microphone or with a connector for its connection;
- with a slot for a memory card;
- with a contact for connecting a USB modem;
- PTZ cameras.
PTZ supports the option of remote control of the direction of view and the magnification of the image. Such products are most often found on professional studio sites; they are rarely used for video surveillance.
Rules for choosing a CCTV camera
Cameras for home surveillance or placement on the street are selected according to the same criteria as they are classified: signal transmission method, purpose and design. Analog samples are suitable for those who are not ready to invest significant sums in a video surveillance system. Comparatively expensive digital models are bought by wealthy people who want to create an effective and multifunctional security network.
House
A surveillance camera for a home is selected based on the intended location of its installation and taking into account the performance of the device. When arranging video surveillance in an apartment, it is taken into account that violators can enter it in several ways. In this case, one device is not enough, you should purchase several cameras at once.
If it is required that remote monitoring be carried out around the clock, IR illumination of the protected area will be needed. Options such as the ability to connect a motion sensor and a microphone will not be superfluous. If you want to store large amounts of information, you will need a surveillance camera for your home with recording on a memory card.
Street
When choosing a camera to monitor the area around the house, it is important to determine the zones of the protected area. The most important:
- area near the front door and emergency entrance;
- especially dangerous places in the fence;
- entrance gates and courtyard buildings.
Attention is drawn to the fact that it is possible to unnoticeably lay the cable with wire cores from the installation site to the recording module. If this cannot be done, you will have to choose and then install hidden cameras or modern wireless devices.
The ideal option is to purchase multiple outdoor cameras with overlapping viewing angles, which will reduce the number of blind spots. A good solution would be to choose swivel models equipped with a mechanism for automatically changing the viewing angle. The body of outdoor equipment is selected to be strong and sealed, capable of withstanding mechanical stress and protecting from moisture and dust.
It is important that the cameras are equipped with a canopy to prevent rain and snow from getting inside, and have a heating system.When choosing a suitable model for a private house, the need for a reliable mounting bracket is taken into account. In its absence, an anti-vandal case and a durable casing will not help.
Comparison of analog and digital devices
The main advantages of analog cameras:
- ease of customization;
- the ability to connect to existing broadcast networks;
- the low cost of the device itself and its components;
- stability of signal transmission, independent of the state of the network and the length of the cable;
- admissibility of working with models from different manufacturers.
To obtain a high-quality analog signal, it is enough to correctly connect the color-coded wires. Camera adjustment and focusing are carried out in automatic or manual mode (according to the user's taste).
Disadvantages of analog cameras:
- limited functionality and the need for a decoder for digital information processing;
- short range and inability to automatically fix the focal length;
- the need for an analog recorder, through which the output of the broadcast to the Internet is organized.
The disadvantages of devices include restrictions on the number of simultaneously processed signals from cameras, which does not exceed 32 units. More devices will require an additional recorder. The disadvantage of analog systems is that they are susceptible to radio frequency interference.
Advantages of IP cameras:
- Direct connection with the server allows them to be integrated into the “smart home” system, as well as into fire control complexes.
- Analytical shooting and chunk of recording (ROI) capabilities guarantee disk space savings.
- High resolution (over 12 megapixels) allows you to shoot detailed video.
Digital IP cameras with analytical shooting function can be used not only in the monitoring mode of a specific object, but also for a detailed analysis of the current situation.
