CCTV systems are a familiar sight in retail spaces. Businesses use them to monitor customers and employees in order to prevent shoplifting and theft. Many businesses also place CCTV cameras at their entrances and overlooking their parking lots to allow surveillance and protect their employees, customers and premises. Over the past few years, though, CCTV cameras have become more popular as home security systems, especially in homes with young children. If you’ve been considering a security camera for your home but want more facts to help you with your decision, these answers to frequently asked questions can help.
What is CCTV?
CCTV stands for closed circuit television. A CCTV system includes cameras, monitors and a recording device such as a DVR, VCR or a PC hard drive. Its purpose is to monitor and record activities to provide security for people and property.
Why Use CCTV?
In a business, a CCTV camera is a visible deterrent against theft and vandalism because it’s a clear indicator that the premises are monitored and recorded. At home, a CCTV security system can help monitor your property, indoors and out, including letting you keep an eye on a sleeping baby, or monitor your home from a distance. In case of a break-in or other problem, recordings made by your closed circuit system can provide the information and identification that law enforcement needs to apprehend and prosecute the thief.
What Are the Main Features of a CCTV Surveillance System?
A CCTV system has three main functions: surveillance, recording and playback. a surveillance camera allows you to watch an area remotely via a feed from a CCTV camera. Generally, the footage from the camera is recorded to media to be stored in case it is needed later. In addition, a CCTV system includes one or more monitors on which the footage – live or recorded – can be viewed.
How Do I Choose the Right CCTV System?
Your choice of systems depends on your budget and your needs. If you just want to be able to see who’s at your front door and in your back yard, you won’t need more than a camera at each entrance which can be accessed via your PC. A system such as that would be relatively simple and inexpensive. If you want more extensive monitoring, longer storage or more access, you’ll need a more complex and more expensive system.
Generally, it’s to your benefit to have your security system professionally installed, but many installation professionals will happily install CCTV systems bought through a discount dealer, which can save you considerably. If a CCTV security system sounds right to you, contact a dealer of security systems to learn more.