Closed circuit television (CCTV) is an integral part of an integrated security system. By transferring the signal from the security cameras to the recorder depending on the size and needs of the facility being protected, remote surveillance is achieved.

As it is easy to see, surveillance cameras are the “eyes” on which the success of the security system as a whole is based. Therefore, choosing the type of security camera to use is a major challenge for the professional installer. The characteristics of each camera combined with the capabilities provided by the infrastructure itself, whether it is a home or a commercial site, largely determine the selection of the right cameras.

Study and design of the system.

Meeting the needs of the end user is the main concern of every security professional when designing and implementing a monitoring system.  Therefore, it is the thorough study of the site, wiring distances, desired coverage area and other similar qualitative characteristics that will lead to safe conclusions based on which both the design and functionality of the surveillance system will be successful.

However, given that needs are constantly changing, another critical factor for the effectiveness of the monitoring system in the long term is the anticipation of upgrading by incorporating additional functionality into the system in the future. Once all of the above has been fully clarified and factored into the initial design, then both the choice of camera that serves the specific needs and any other details can be accurately determined.

From analogue to digital: IP cameras vs 4 in 1,

The use of analogue cameras in surveillance systems is tending to disappear. The requirement of a coaxial cable to transfer the signal to the recorder and the limited resolution of the sensor to a few hundred pixels, make it no longer an ideal choice.

The two most common types of security cameras used to install or upgrade a modern surveillance system are IP cameras and hybrid cameras. By analyzing the individual features of these cameras, it is easier to understand which one meets the individual needs of each customer:

The operation of the IP camera is based on the connection to the internet via WAN or LAN. It is a live transmission camera with open protocol that is widely used in the installation of surveillance systems mainly due to the reduced cost of work required in terms of installation or upgrading of the surveillance system. With a resolution ranging from 2MP up to 8MP, but also with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support video analytics, they offer a maximum level of security, especially in projects with increased requirements.

As far as 4-in-1 cameras are concerned, one of their most notable features is compatibility with all four basic analogue signal protocols (AHD/CVI/TVI/CVBS). They have a low purchase cost, ease of installation and operation, and their resolution can start from 2MP and can go up to 8MP, like Provision ISR‘s Bullet . In any case, they are a smart choice for the installation of a surveillance system, since the process of upgrading the system in case it is necessary is very easy and simple, without any special work and cost increase.

Is there an ideal camera after all?

As it turns out, each camera incorporates different technologies, has its own advantages and its use serves different purposes. Thus, the correctness of the choice between IP and hybrid 4-in-1 cameras lies solely in the features we are interested in exploiting to add value and functionality to a surveillance system. In conclusion, an ideal camera is one that is in harmony with the capabilities of the infrastructure in which it is to be installed, while fully ensuring the surveillance needs specified by the end user.