The popularity of security systems is growing steadily, as evidenced by the desire of manufacturers of security equipment to diversify and improve their proposals. For several decades, interest in video surveillance systems has not waned. Today they are used not only at critical commercial and public facilities, but also as an element of security infrastructure for private needs. Understanding what types and devices of CCTV cameras are offered on the modern market will allow you to make the right choice, thereby ensuring reliable protection. Models of devices differ in many characteristics, including the quality of the "picture", and the possibility of installation, and operating modes.
Analog and Digital Models
One of the primary classification factors is the principle of data processing. Most modern devices operate on a digital basis, but the demand for analog models remains. In practice, the use of these varieties revealed many differences. First of all, it is worth considering digital surveillance cameras. The types and characteristics in this group are quite diverse - for example, it includes both high-resolution models for flush mounting and street modifications that allow real-time monitoring over a large area. In terms of characteristics, devices can differ in the way they compress data, the duration of recording, and the approach to storing materials. Analog models are much simpler, but less functional. Such devices are purchased to provide surveillance over a small area. Actually, the main advantage of such an acquisition is its low price, since digital cameras still win in other parameters.
Street and home cameras
Often the installation location of the equipment plays a key role in the selection of a specific model. Today, the types of cameras for home surveillance systems are represented by indoor, wireless, modular and other systems. All of them are combined by small dimensions and the lack of special protection against external influences. Also, indoor devices, as a rule, are characterized by a small photosensitivity, can be equipped with Wi-Fi sensors and microphones.
If the addition of a security complex outside the premises is required, then outdoor surveillance cameras are chosen. Street views, in turn, are distinguished by the presence of a protective housing that protects the device from frost, water, sunlight and mechanical stress. It can be swivel models, domed versions, as well as modifications for flush mounting. Depending on the operating conditions, a camera with enhanced protection may be required - for such purposes, manufacturers offer equipment in a case with an anti-vandal shell.
Models for covert surveillance
Until recently, pin-hall models made up for the need for covert video surveillance. Such devices have a lens that is specifically designed for quiet installation. But today, such models are limited in distribution due to prohibitions. Miniature surveillance cameras began to perform their function. What types of hidden from this category are most suitable for a particular task - should be decided based on the location and installation conditions. Of fundamental importance is the body, which can be conical, cylindrical or square. A feature of such video cameras is a mini lens, the diameter of which does not exceed 1 mm. Most often, such devices are used indoors, so they can be attributed to home or indoor cameras. Due to its small size, the device can be integrated into the finishing coating, into an interior detail or a ceiling niche - in any case, it will be very difficult to notice the lens.
Case and modular cameras
Most camcorders still do not require hidden installation, so their size allows you to use durable and reliable cases. So, the following options for the frame base are distinguished - domed, finger-shaped, standard rectangular and other versions. The listed types of CCTV cameras are mainly used on the street, since there is no need to use durable protective enclosures in the room. Despite the classic appearance, the functionality of such equipment is not inferior to alternative solutions. The same applies to modular cameras, which are delivered without a frame shell. That is, such devices can be installed in almost any place, without thinking about the stock of free space. As a rule, these are small “eyes” that are enough to integrate into the prepared niche and connect to the wiring. Partly modular devices are similar to mini-cameras for flush mounting, but among them there are also larger models for outdoor use.
Swivel and robotic models
In this case, we are talking about a wide group of controlled cameras, which are also called zoom. In addition to the lens itself and the housing, such models are equipped with a well-thought-out mechanical base for mounting, which provides the possibility of movement. Actually, the user can control either one lens by turning it, or the entire body of the device. The controlled types of CCTV cameras suggest the possibility of automatic movement. These are robotic devices that change the viewing angle depending on the settings of a given program. For example, the user can configure the camera with the expectation of a complete overview of the territory for a given time and at certain intervals. Further, human participation is not required, since the equipment will carry out surveillance with movement in automatic mode.
Color separation
All types of camcorders may vary in color saturation. There is a fundamental division into models that provide a black and white image, and color. It would seem that in such a crucial matter it is important to use the maximum advantages of video recording, that is, with broadcast “in color”. But black and white types of surveillance cameras have advantages. In particular, they provide higher image detail, have high photosensitivity and work effectively in low light if supplemented with infrared illumination. But these advantages do not completely cancel out the advantages of color cameras. They, in turn, broadcast a more informative video image, allowing you to recognize shades. With such a device, for example, you can determine the color of a car, clothes, or find out another important nuance in the recorded material.
Wireless cameras
Installation requirements and conditions for its implementation often limit the choice of cameras. In such situations, it is advisable to assess the feasibility of using wireless devices. These are models that work without wires, broadcasting a signal using 3G and Wi-Fi technologies. For example, it can be some types of hidden CCTV cameras, as well as outdoor devices for which it is not possible to supply a coaxial cable. Also, a new stage in the development of wireless devices was the emergence of IP-technologies that allow the transfer of materials over the Internet. Nevertheless, there is no talk of a complete exclusion of wires, since most devices need network power. An exception can be called stand-alone models, the supply of which is carried out using batteries, but such solutions are not practical, since they require regular replacement or charging of the power source.
Price issue
The price range is wide and determined by many characteristics. For example, miniature devices of a modular type can cost about 1-2 thousand rubles. Street systems in a wide configuration and with high-quality high-strength housing can be sold for 4-5 thousand rubles. You should also consider the type of signal that surveillance cameras support. Types and prices in this segment are closely interconnected - for example, an analog room model of a little-known manufacturer can cost no more than 1 thousand. And digital devices for home installation are already sold for 2-3 thousand rubles. Much depends on additional options. So, the presence of infrared lights, filters and reinforced covers can add a few thousand to the price.
Conclusion
In most cases, the camera acts only as an element of the overall complex of security systems. Modern types of CCTV cameras in their design and principles of data transmission are initially oriented towards integration in a particular system. For example, in the protection of apartments, cameras with motion sensors have become popular . And for the protection of large areas several street cameras can be used, combined into one system and connected to a central control panel. Make their adjustments and the latest technology. For example, the emerging developments in the form of wireless cameras are due to existing requirements for alarm systems.