Indoor
Cameras
There are many different types of
cameras that can be used. Some of these
different styles are dome cameras
(pictured), bullet cameras, box cameras,
and covert (hidden) cameras. The
technical details vary from camera to
camera based on the light level of the
location where the camera will be and
the distance from the camera to the area
you want to view.
Outdoor
Cameras
Outdoor cameras should always be
weatherproof. Some of the bullet cameras
are sold as weatherproof. Some of the
more expensive box cameras require an
outdoor housing with a built in heater
and blower to protect your equipment
from the elements and to ensure optimum
performance
Pan/Tilt/Zoom
Cameras (PTZ)
These are the
cameras that allow a user to control the
camera from a remote location. A remote
viewer can pan, tilt and zoom this type
of camera using a joystick or a web
interface built into the DVR software.
PTZ cameras give you the most flexible
surveillance system but are also the
most expensive cameras.
Digital
Video Recording (DVR)
Digital
Video Recording is offered in two
choices, pc based or standalone. The pc
based option involves installing a DVR
card into a computer and installing
software to monitor the cameras
recording. The other option, a
standalone DVR unit, is a dedicated unit
that does everything pertaining to the
camera system. These units are generally
more reliable and require less
maintenance.
Cabling
Each camera is wired using coaxial or
UTP cable for the video signal. 16/2 or
18/2 wire is also run from a single
distribution box to each camera to
supply power. Supplying power from a
single source saves time and money when
there is no power source near the
camera.