CCTV Systems Terminology You Should Know

Shopping for CCTV systems for your home or business can be confusing when you don’t know the lingo used by the salespeople. It’s even worse when you’re shopping for CCTV systems on the web, where it’s harder to stop a salesman and ask him to explain a term you don’t understand. These definitions of common CCTV system and security camera terms can help you understand the various features of security camera systems and make an informed choice.

Automatic Gain Control is a security camera feature that helps keep a video signal at a consistent level of brightness. If, for example, the video is dark, AGC will try to increase the “gain” to bring up the brightness.

Aperture is the diameter of the lens that controls the light that reaches the image sensor. The larger lenses have smaller f-numbers. For example, a lens with an f-number of 2.0 will allow less light to reach the image sensor, thus producing a dimmer image than one with a 1.2 f-number.

Auto Iris Control is a lens with a motorized iris that automatically adjusts to the light level in the area being surveyed. They’re ideally used in areas where the light levels vary and it’s difficult to adjust the security camera lens manually.

Back Light Compensation helps correct an image with more light behind the subject being viewed. A security camera with back light compensation is invaluable for outdoor cameras where facial recognition is important, for example.

C Mount Lenses and CS Mount Lenses are industry standards to describe the number of threads/inch and other specifications that allow a lens to be mounted onto a camera. It’s possible to mount a CS mount lens onto a C mount camera with an adapter, but you cannot put a CS mount lens on a C mount camera. If you’re purchasing lenses and cameras separately, ensure that you choose pieces that are compatible with each other.

EXview HAD CCD is a Sony Corporation technology that improves light efficiency by including light waves that are near the infrared spectrum. HAD CCD sensors are far more sensitive to light than those in traditional security cameras. Super HAD CCD is a non-trademarked version of Sony’s high performance technology.

Infrared refers to the colors of light below the visible spectrum. An infrared illuminator on a security camera can help enhance the images broadcast for poorly lit areas without letting anyone know that the area is “lighted” for security. Infrared security cameras are ideal for indoor and outdoor night security camera applications.

White Balance is a technology in color CCTV systems that helps correct the differences in color caused by different temperatures of lighting. Without white balance, colors would look different than they really are.

An understanding of these basic security camera terms can help you make an informed decision when you’re trying to decide which CCTV systems are the best fit for your home or business.

Budget-Friendly CCTV Systems for Your Business

Security camera systems are a known benefit for any retail business. In the right place, CCTV systems can help you keep an eye on your stock, prevent loss due to theft, provide evidence to prosecute shoplifters and thieves and help your employees feel more secure when they’re alone at the counter. Many small businesses, especially small mom-and-pop corner stores, may believe that a CCTV system is outside their price range.

This is an unfortunate mistake, especially since those small mom-and-pop groceries are so often located in areas with high rates of crime. Without security cameras or a surveillance system, they’re more likely to be targeted by thieves who think that the stores are an easy mark. In truth, there are many budget-friendly security camera options that won’t blow a hole in your bottom line. If you’re in need of a security camera and CCTV system for your small business, these tips can help you find budget-friendly CCTV systems for your store.

Don’t Rely on Fakes

Many small businesses believe that they can fool thieves by putting up a fake CCTV camera. Most thieves are pretty savvy and will be able to tell that the setup is fake, so it won’t serve as much of a deterrent. And if something should happen, you won’t have a record of the event for evidence.

Choose a DIY CCTV system

One of the major expenses when you’re installing a security system is the actual cost of installation. Wired CCTV systems generally call for professional installation because of the layout. If you choose a wireless system, on the other hand, you can place your cameras where you want without having to worry about running wires to the receiver.

Consider a Standalone DVR System

A 4-channel standalone DVR security system will generally offer more than enough flexibility and coverage for the typical small store. If you shop online at a site that specializes in surveillance systems, you can find standalone DVR CCTV systems for under $300. Add a camera or two for about $100 each, and you’ll have a security camera system that provides all the coverage you need. You can expand it as you have more cash, or as needed.

Be sure to check the clearance and refurbished sections of online websites that sell CCTV systems to find the best prices. A bargain security camera system can help you get a handle on loss in your store and will quickly pay for itself.