What is CCTV
CCTV (closed-circuit television) is a TV system in which signals are not publicly distributed but are monitored, primarily for surveillance and security purposes. CCTV relies on strategic placement of cameras, and observation of the camera’s input on monitors somewhere.
Are you wondering which CCTV camera to buy for your business premises? We’ve summarised the benefits of each of the different types of CCTV systems below. Use our expert guide to select a solution that is fit for purpose and provides the level of security you require, in order to safeguard your property and staff. Don’t hesitate to contact us for installations and further advice.
Types of CCTV Cameras
Bullet CCTV Cameras
Bullet CCTV cameras have an iconic design that is highly visible. There shape is cylindrical and are capable of observing long distances. They are most commonly placed/used outdoors because their casings are made of water, dust and dirt resistance.
Main benefits
- Highly visible so acts as a deterrent
- Resistant to dirt in challenging environments
- Provides surveillance over long distances
- Casing also protects against glare and rain
Ideal uses
Bullet cameras can be used to good effect in a range of industries such as manufacturing, property management and farming. They not only record good quality pictures but also send out a message to passers-by that your premises is under surveillance. That’s why they have traditionally offered the best CCTV for outside operation.
Dome CCTV Cameras
Its called a dome CCTV camera because of the dome-shaped casing that the camera sits in. Whilst these are relatively discreet CCTV cameras in appearance, this doesn’t stop them from deterring criminals. This is because the dome casing makes it really difficult for people to see which direction the camera is pointing. This creates an air of uncertainty for potential thieves or vandals approaching from all directions.
Main benefits
- Unobtrusive design means it’s easy to fit
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Vandal resistant dome means it is harder to interfere with the camera
- 360-degree rotation of the camera so you can cover all angles
Ideal uses
This is the best CCTV camera for shops, restaurants, casinos and hotels because the design allows you to monitor a wider angle at your premises. Many also consider this option to be the best indoor CCTV camera as it can be placed on a strategic point of the ceiling to cover all angles of the room.
High Definition (HD) CCTV Cameras
This type of CCTV cameras offer an unrivalled picture quality that delivers high clarity images. Depending on your budget, they can deliver resolutions of 720p, all the way up to 4K. Therefore, there’s no danger that the subject of recordings will ever appear grainy or distorted.
Main benefits
- High definition pictures capture subjects in perfect clarity
- Extra clarity can also be achieved with zoom function
- Available on most CCTV models such as domes and bullets
- Crystal clear imagery provides undeniable criminal identification
Ideal uses
High definition cameras are particularly useful for use in environments where there is a high risk of theft. Organizations such as banks and casinos should opt for HD cameras, in order to ensure that visitors to their premises are captured in perfect clarity. The footage recorded will be able to provide undeniable identification in the event of a crime being committed.
C-Mount CCTV Cameras
This CCTV cameras are the ideal option for those who may wish to adapt the field of vision. They are equipped with detachable lenses that can be switched around to monitor varying distances. C-Mount cameras are typically bulky so, like bullet cameras, act as a visible deterrent to criminal activity.
Main benefits
- Special lenses can be fitted to the camera to extend its range beyond 40 feet
- Highly visible appearance that deters criminals
- Rugged camera casing can be added to protect the camera in cold environments
- Weatherproof housing makes it ideal for outdoor use
Ideal uses
This is the ideal camera for observing a stretch of road on the approach to your premises. It is therefore popular in the utilities and logistics industries. Those operating in the food and manufacturing industries may also elect for this option, due to the camera’s reliability in extreme temperatures.
Infrared/Night Vision CCTV Cameras
These type of CCTV cameras are designed to operate optimally in pitch black conditions. They achieve this by using infrared technology. Infrared models are more expensive than day/night cameras and those opting for this option usually do so because night recording is vital to the security of their business.
Main benefits
- Infrared LEDs allow clear recording even in pitch black environments
- An infrared cut filter activates in the daytime for clear images in lighter conditions
- Can capture images even in the presence of fog, dust or smoke
- Records colour imagery in the daytime and black and white at night
Ideal uses
This is the best CCTV camera for night vision functionality. It’s therefore the ideal choice for those who need ultra-reliable recording in complete darkness. For example, banks, farms and manufacturing plants.
Wireless CCTV Cameras
Wireless CCTV cameras were created to minimise installation time. They also make the appearance of the camera much tidier, which may be an important factor for locations such as churches, museums or stately homes/events
Main benefits
- Easier to install than your average CCTV system
- Discreet and tidy appearance and a less obtrusive fitting
- Images transmitted over internet so can be viewed anywhere
- Secure storage and easy access of archive footage
Ideal uses
If a spotless presentation is important in your industry, wireless CCTV cameras are a great security option. Their discreet appearance helps them to blend into the interior. What’s more, there is less set up and camera maintenance required, and footage is transferred via the internet for convenient access.
Network/IP CCTV Cameras
These type of cameras share live footage across the internet so images can be easily accessed from anywhere on the globe. The bandwidth of the video is compressed, in order to make the
online feed reliable. Archive footage is stored on network video recorders (NVRs) or on secure software for later access.
Main benefits
- Footage can be viewed online from anywhere in the world
- Easily accessible archive footage
- Easy setup as co axial cables and a computer station are not required
- Low maintenance
Ideal uses
A network or IP CCTV camera is the ideal choice for business owners who are often away from site and on the move. Footage can be viewed from anywhere in the world, via a PC, laptop or mobile phone
Day/Night CCTV Cameras
These type of cctv cameras have been built specifically to operate effectively, regardless of how well lit their environment is. During both daytime and night-time, they will record clear video images that will not be obscured by differing light conditions. This is achieved through their extra sensitive imaging chips.
Main benefits
- Clear recording in low light
- They usually record in both colour and black and white
- Can function despite glare, direct sunlight, reflections and poor lighting
- Casing protects the camera against the elements for outside surveillance
Ideal uses
There are various CCTV camera types suited to outside use but the extra sensitive imaging makes this one unique. It is therefore the ideal CCTV system for business premises that require round the clock CCTV monitoring in an outdoor environment with varying light conditions.
