Introduction to Security Cameras

June 21, 2022 | By: mm-admin

What Is A Surveillance System?

A Surveillance or Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) System comprises one or many security cameras capturing and sending video to a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or a cloud-based server. These record the video footage and present it on a monitor or other connected device (iPad, cellphone, etc). Security camera systems have grown immensely and are commonly used in various applications. Learn more about security cameras with this introduction blog:

Three Components of a Surveillance System

A security camera system is made up of three main components:

1. Security Camera

These devices come in many different styles and are chosen based on the location in which they are being installed as well as their intended use.

2. Network Video Recorder (NVR)

An NVR is a computer system that captures, records, and stores video footage. It also includes a software program to help the user manage, record, and display video.

Today, large video surveillance systems are becoming much more common.  These intricate systems can comprise many cameras, facilitating multiple applications and services for a variety of end users. In these scenarios, many organizations benefit from the use of a dedicated server with a layered video management system (VMS).

Alternatively, cloud-based video surveillance is a growing trend in the security camera industry.  This solution moves all of the video management and storage to a cloud-based server and eliminates the need to have a physical server or NVR at your building.

3. Monitor or Network Connected Device

This is a device that is connected to the NVR or cloud-based solution through hard wire or internet that enables the user to view footage from the security cameras. Common devices used for this include computers, tablets, or smartphones.

Types of Security Cameras

Commercial CCTV Dome CameraThere are a multitude of security cameras available with many different features and functions to meet your desired needs.  The four most common security cameras used today include:

1. Dome Security Camera

Hold this camera in a discreet dome enclosure and easily mount it to the ceiling or wall. The dome security camera is versatile and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

2. Bullet Security Camera

The bullet security camera gets its name from its bullet-shaped housing. It is best suited for areas with poor lighting and is primarily used in outdoor applications.

CCTV camera in an office building3. PTZ Security Camera

A pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) security camera gives the user control of the direction and zoom through its user software. The PTZ is ideal for covering large areas that may require you to pan across, or for in-depth investigation of high-profile areas within the customer’s site.

4. Box Camera

This camera provides a wealth of options in terms of the types of lenses you can use. Indoor installations commonly use box security cameras, which can be installed in various locations.

IP or Analog

You may come across many discussions around the choice of analog versus IP based security camera systems.  It’s best to think of an analog security camera system in the same mindset as older tube television sets.  As technology has evolved, today’s IP based systems have allowed cameras to record tin HD1080 resolution, providing a crisp, clear image.  IP cameras also allow you to cover a larger area with one camera that would require multiple analog cameras.  Finally, IP cameras are much more competitively priced, providing a huge benefit for customers.

Benefits of a Security Camera System

1. Prevention

Theft prevention is one of the most common problems that companies face regardless of their industry. Whether applied to internal or external theft, a security camera system can deter and capture these types of incidents.

2. Safety

If you oversee the security of a property, you know how important and challenging it can be to ensure the safety of the property itself, and those who occupy it.  Criminal activity can lower the value of your business and even deter customers from coming in.  A security camera system helps to deter criminal activity from happening, and can capture evidence if an incident were to occur.

3. Video Evidence

Potential liability issues always have the possibility of occurring throughout the everyday operations of a business. A security camera system can be critical in capturing evidence to protect you and your business against a liability claim.

4. Training and Feedback

Efficient operations are important for any business striving to maximize their output. Security cameras will allow you to review video footage and pinpoint any performance opportunities that exist to maximize efficiencies.

Contact Us

fire monitoring of canada logoFor over 30 years, Fire Monitoring of Canada (FMC) has been an industry leader in the monitoring of fire alarm and security systems.  If you would like to lean more about how security camera systems can help improve your facility’s security, call us at 1 888 789 FIRE (3473), email fminfo@fire-monitoring.com, or fill out the contact form below.

Originally published in April, 2020, updated January, 2022.