A security camera system, or closed-circuit television (CCTV), is a surveillance tool that monitors and records activities in a specific area.
It consists of cameras, a recording device (DVR or NVR), and a monitoring/display system, all working together to enhance security by capturing video footage.
These cameras can be analog or IP, offering features like night vision and motion detection. Analog systems use coaxial cables, while IP systems use network cables for data transmission.
The recorded footage is stored on hard drives, with DVRs handling analog data and NVRs managing digital data from IP cameras.
Users can monitor live feeds locally or remotely via the internet. Motion detection capabilities and alert systems further enhance security by enabling a timely response to potential threats.
The parts and functions of a Security Cameras System
Cameras
Cameras serve a variety of purposes, with different types available to suit various needs. Analog, digital IP, and wireless cameras are among the options on the market.
Among these, IP cameras offer superior resolution and advanced features.
In terms of functionality, cameras are designed to capture video footage within a monitored area.
They offer a range of features to enhance surveillance, including motion detection, night vision capabilities, and the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) to focus on specific areas of interest.
The shapes of the cameras are usually dome or bullet style, mini-dome, mini-bullets, turret style, fisheye, etc.
Cabling
When it comes to cabling and how cameras connect, there are distinct differences between analog and IP cameras.
Analog cameras typically use coaxial cables to send video signals to the recording device. These cables are well-suited for carrying analog signals over short to medium distances.
In contrast, IP cameras use network cables, like Ethernet cables, to transmit digital video data over a network.
This digital approach allows for higher-quality video transmission and the ability to connect cameras to a wider range of devices, such as computers and network video recorders (NVRs).
The Recorder
The recording device, whether it’s a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) or an NVR (Network Video Recorder), is essential for storing and managing video footage from cameras.
In analog camera systems, you’ll often find a DVR. It processes and records video signals from analog cameras, storing the footage on a built-in hard drive. This setup is perfect for traditional analog setups.
On the other hand, NVRs are more commonly used with IP camera systems.
They process and record digital video data from IP cameras, offering advantages like higher-quality video storage and the ability to handle more advanced features such as video analytics.
If you’re installing a new security system, we always recommend to go for the IP cameras and run cat5e or cat6 cables (certified versions).
Storage
The recording device, such as a DVR or NVR, includes storage capacity, often in the form of surveillance hard drives. This storage determines how much video footage can be saved before older recordings are overwritten.
The duration of storage varies depending on factors such as the resolution of the video, the number of cameras recording, and the storage capacity of the device.
For example, a system with high-definition cameras recording 24/7 will require more storage capacity compared to a system with lower-resolution cameras recording only during specific times.
In general, a typical surveillance system can store footage for several weeks to several months before older footage is automatically deleted to make room for new recordings. However, this can vary widely based on the factors mentioned earlier.
Monitoring
In a surveillance setup, the monitoring and display system offers two main ways to view footage: locally and remotely.
For local viewing, a monitor is often part of the system, allowing users to observe live footage right on-site. This can be a regular TV or even a computer screen and connects to the recorder via an HDMI cable
Remote access is another valuable feature. Modern systems enable users to monitor their surveillance feeds from afar, either through the internet or a dedicated network.
This means you can check in on your property or business from anywhere with an internet connection, using your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Power Supply
Cameras and recording devices need power to function, and there are several ways to provide it:
Electrical Outlets: They can be plugged into standard electrical outlets.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): IP cameras can be powered through the Ethernet cable used for data transmission, which is convenient for installations where running separate power cables is challenging.
Other Power Sources: Some cameras and recording devices may be powered by batteries or solar panels, etc.
Motion Detection and Alerts
Many modern surveillance systems come equipped with motion detection and alert features.
Motion Detection: These systems are designed with motion sensors that activate recording when movement is detected, ensuring that important events are captured.
Alerts: When motion is detected, the system can send alerts to users via email or mobile notifications. This enables users to quickly check the live feed or recorded footage and take appropriate action if necessary.
