We all want to protect our wealth and ourselves so that the installation of security is commonplace, however it is important that we choose the right camera for the right application. Here we look at the various types of cameras on the market and their main features. There are a lot of different cameras to choose from and most have names that give clues to their main purpose such as Home Security, Baby Cam, Dash cam and even body worn cameras.
Dome: Dome cameras get their name because of their dome shape. The dome-shaped housing in which they sit is designed to make the camera unobtrusive. They are not secret, but also not too visible. They will often be seen in the retail environment. They serve a dual purpose in that potential criminals know the area is policed but consumers can legitimately feel comfortable knowing that the area is protected. Some of these cameras can spin faster to watch something and are known as ‘speed domes’.
Bullet: A bullet CCTV camera on a wall or ceiling is usually designed for indoor use, but can also be used in outdoor applications. Such as dome cameras, the camera gets its name from the cylindrical shape which is slender thin like a bullet. This camera can also be waterproof but not typically designed to have motion control but captures images from a fixed area. The unit is mounted to point at a certain area.
Day / Night: The camera adjusts light conditions to allow the camera to capture images. They are mainly used in outdoor applications where security cameras are positioned to cover parking, for example. Mostly, the units benefit from a wide range and ability to operate in bright glare, reflections, direct and backlight.
Infrared / Night Vision: The camera has the ability to view images in conditions of complete darkness using infra-red LEDs.
Outdoor: Outdoor cameras must certify that they are impenetrable to moisture, dust, insects and other elements. For Bristol CCTV Installation, visit a site like https://www.bristolfire.co.uk/cctv-systems/
High-Definition Camera: Ultra HD cameras are often used only in specialist markets, like a casino or bank. High definition gives the operator the opportunity to expand with sharp clarity to see what they consider suspicious. The camera also transmits images using HD.
Network / IP: This camera comes in two versions, embedded and wireless, transmitting images over the Internet, often compressing bandwidth so as not to overwhelm the web. IP cameras are easier to install because they do not require a separate power cable and can send images over longer distances.
PTZ / Speed Domes: This camera has the ability to pan, tilt and zoom giving the operator the ability to move the camera control left or right (pan); up and down (tilt); and zoom the lens closer or farther away. The camera is only really useful where there is a guard or supervisor to monitor the image. Some cameras have an automatic pan / tilt / zoom function where the camera is programmed to move in timed patterns and provides a useful function in regions where there is only one camera.