An Introduction to Security Cameras
There are many different types ofsecurity camerasout there and if you are new to the security and surveillance system world, it can be a little confusing. When determining what the best cameras are for you, it is important to understand their functions. For example, certain cameras may look nice but they might not offer the features you need. Some cameras can be controlled remotely and others cannot, some are able to pan and tilt while others are more discreet. To help you determine which security camera best fits your needs, we have compiled a short introduction for the major camera types we offer.
Pan/Tilt/Zoom Camera- These cameras can be adjusted quickly, change direction, zoom and even lock in on a person or object and follow it. They can spin around and angle up and down to capture multiple angles. A motorized interior mount is what allows these cameras to move. The cameras can be controlled remotely from a PC or smartphone. Users can pre-program movement or control it moment by moment. These are often recommended for users who need to monitor a large area like a warehouse. PTZ cameras are available in multiple technologies including Analog, CVI, TVI, SDI and IP.
Dome Camera- Like the name suggests these cameras are dome shaped and are available in both indoor and outdoor models. Most of these cameras are vandal-proof and water resistant which makes them durable and long lasting. While these cameras are not considered to be “hidden cameras,” the tinted dome around the camera means that people can’t tell if the camera is pointing at them which can be a useful tool in catching theft. Many models even come with night vision and long range capabilities. This style is very popular and available across multiple technologies.
Bullet Camera- Also sometimes referred to as a lipstick camera, these cameras are cylindrical shaped. There are models for both indoor and outdoor use. This style of camera may provide options for a varifocal lens but they are not typically pan/tilt/zoom capable. These cameras are discrete due to their small size and work great for filming a fixed location.
Box Camera- These are simple, box shaped cameras. Like bullet cameras, they have fixed and varifocal lens options and are not pan/tilt/zoom capable. Box cameras work with an industry standard C/CS mount and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The most common use for these cameras is to monitor traffic and traffic lights. They are larger than bullet cameras and not very discreet but can deter crime simply by being visible to potential criminals.
Fisheye Camera- These cameras are flat and discreet with a wide lens that captures a panoramic image. These are often used over front porches to monitor the front of a home. While they are small and discreet they are still able to capture up to a 360 degree range. The fisheye lens will monitor all angles of a room. The wide lens is also known to distort images but with fisheye dewarping software this can be easily fixed.
LPR- License Plate Recognition cameras are surveillance cameras that are equipped with software that uses optical character recognition to read license plates. This can be a very useful tool for monitoring parking lots, gated entrances and traffic. For the best results we recommend using LPR cameras with infrared night vision so that clear images can be capture even in low light conditions. Also, while these cameras are available in Analog models, we recommend using high definition security cameras to make it easier to read license plate numbers and capture clear video.
Hidden Cameras-Also known as spy cameras or nanny cameras. These discreet surveillance cameras are often hidden inside everyday items such as clocks or power outlets. They are especially effective for monitoring behavior of employees, nannies and pets without them knowing.We offer many different styles and options, some record footage onto an internal SD card while others would need to be connected to a DVR to record. There are hidden camera options in analog, CVI and IP technologies although typically the smaller or more hidden a camera is the lower the resolution will be.
