Definition
CCTV (closed circuit television) is a video surveillance system that transmits signals to specific monitors or devices instead of broadcasting them openly. Its success relies on the strategic positioning of cameras.
Older CCTV systems used small black-and-white monitors with no interactivity. Modern CCTV systems use high-resolution screens with features such as zooming in on specific screen areas or tracking the motion of objects or individuals.
CCTV Types
- PTZ pan-tilt-zoom CCTV: It enables the security team to regulate recorded images. It has a button to pan, zoom, or tilt the camera lens. This CCTV is ideal for monitoring live video feeds.
- Day/night vision CCTV: It captures high-quality footage unaffected by the surrounding environment’s lighting.
- Dome CCTV: Its configuration makes it hard to determine where the camera points.
- Network/IP CCTV: The broadcasts live footage online to observe images remotely. The video’s bandwidth is compressed to ensure a dependent online feed. Archived footage is stored in encrypted software or NVR for later access.
- C-mount CCTV: It allows you to adjust the field of view, with detachable lenses monitoring various distances.
- Infrared/night vision CCTV: It works best in darkness because of the infrared technology. They are widespread despite being expensive.
- Wireless CCTV: The transmits video and audio signals wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical cables between the cameras and the recording or monitoring devices.
- Bullet CCTV: It is cylindrical and can see far. It is usually placed outdoors because it is resistant to dust, water, and dirt.
Advantages of CCTV
- They deter criminals from vandalizing or stealing homes and businesses.
- Modern CCTV systems enable remote access and monitoring through the internet on tablets, mobile phones, or computers.
- CCTV recordings serve as strong legal evidence for identifying suspects in criminal cases.
- CCTV also decreases insurance premiums.
- CCTVs also help monitor when employees enter and exit work and when shipments and visitors arrive to ensure smooth operation.
Disadvantages of CCTV
- CCTV cameras raise privacy concerns as they record everything around them.
- Some cameras aren’t weather resistant and can break at the worst possible time because of bad weather.
- While CCTV cameras are good for safety, they may be expensive.