Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are increasingly available for all budgets and needs. If you haven't bought one yet, now is the time to change your mind, because you'll be spoiled for choice online. This creates its own set of problems, however, as many first-time buyers are prone to choosing the wrong security camera and then regretting their purchase.
ContentsAssess Your CCTV Camera RequirementsSelecting CCTV Camera TypeDome CamerasBullet CamerasPTZ CamerasOther Considerations Before PurchasingSummaryThe reason for this is that there are so many specifications to understand and choose from, as CCTV cameras can be deployed in a wide range of configurations. Among many options, you will have to decide whether to go for Wi-Fi or wired cameras, local or cloud storage, wide-angle view or narrow view, and motion sensor or night vision functions. /P>
If this all sounds confusing, don't worry because we've simplified this decision tree for you. Whether you want to install a CCTV surveillance camera in your home, store or office, our easy three-step guide will help you choose the right one for your needs.
First, you will need to assess your realistic needs before making a purchase. Grab a paper, pen and calculator to create a rough due diligence budget. It is very important to take this activity seriously if you don't want to forget something that you will regret later.
These days it is more common to have a turret dome camera which costs a bit more. A varifocal dome CCTV camera has the most flexibility, as it can support a wide-angle view using a varifocal lens (2.8mm-12mm, etc.). Infrared dome cameras allow night vision and are generally tamper-proof.
Bullet cameras are appropriate in outdoor environments where the field of view needs to cover a greater distance, such as an expansive view of a parking lot. These are usually weatherproof, tamper-proof and equipped with night vision. Bullet cameras are inexpensive and can be purchased for as little as $13. You just need to check permission to install them, as the extended range means you can see your neighbor's property. Generally, these CCTV cameras are seen in commercial places.
Pan, Tilt, and Zoom (PTZ) cameras are versatile because they allow you to view CCTV footage in multiple ways. You can zoom in on a detail (5x, etc.), pan across the entire screen to find hidden clues, and tilt the cameras in any direction. These cameras generally don't come cheap.
After knowing your camera type and installation requirements, you need to focus on the quality of the camera visuals. A high-definition (HD) or 4k CCTV camera will allow significant readability of objects such as license plates.
You should also keep an eye out for features like H.265 compression, motion detection alerts, and whether you can play back footage on your smartphone, Windows, or Mac. Branded CCTV cameras will include a company app readily available on Google Play or the App Store.
Once you have a clear budget and are aware of the above requirements, you will find it easy to buy CCTV cameras online.
Today, CCTV cameras have become the most ubiquitous feature of modern life. They reinforce a sense of security in times of uncertainty. As long as you have valuables to protect, CCTV cameras will give you access at all times to activities in your absence.
Do you have security cameras installed anywhere? What were your considerations when making a purchase? We'd love to hear from you in the comments.
