A “camera system” or video surveillance system is composed of a system of cameras, monitors/display units, recorders, and controllers. These systems can enable an agent or operator to use cameras for a variety of purposes:

  • A given space (convenience store, safe room, etc.)

  • Property

  • Network of properties

These systems use a number of different types of cameras and devices:

  • Fixed cameras

  • 360-view cameras

    • Fisheye

    • Multisensor

  • PTZs (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) that can be remotely controlled

  • Thermal cameras

They can be mounted on interior or exterior walls and surfaces. Cameras operate 24/7 and can be designed to only record in response to movement, or set to record during specific times of the day.

Footage can be monitored live by a security guard, monitored remotely if using an IP camera and system by a monitoring company, or can simply be recorded and stored by a DVR (digital video recorder) or NVR (network video recorder) for review later.

CCTV stands for “Closed Circuit Television”. this means its signals are not broadcast so that others could intercept and view the content. Only authorized users can access the recorded material.

Component

Description

Camera

Devices that view specified angles or areas on a building or property. Comes with a wide range of features and use cases for specific tracking and recording needs.

Monitoring Station

Viewing recorded images and live footage. Deciding how many monitors you’ll need is dependent upon what, and which area you are monitoring. Smaller building or properties need only one or two, while large-scale facilities need multiple monitors to display the hundreds of cameras that are installed.

Mobile apps are often used as monitoring stations as well. Most CCTV platforms have mobile integration available.

Cables

The most common cabling you will see in a Camera system are CAT and COAX. CAT5e and CAT6 are generally used for IP systems, whereas COAX is used for analog systems.

Analog CCTV systems are quickly becoming outdated. However, there are still many existing systems that need service.

Networking

If using an IP-system networking plays a huge part in the CCTV system. The basic equipment needed are switches, CAT cabling, and a DVR/NVR.

Video Recorders

The video recorder is the device where video recorded on the camera gets processed for storage & viewing.

There are two types of video recorders: DVR (Digital Video Recorders) and NVR (Network Video Recorders).

Data Storage

Your CCTV security system is only as good as the hard disk backing it. The storage device for a security camera system should be able to record, store and re-play videos non-stop from multiple feeds. These systems almost always use hard drives over solid state drives.

Topics Covered

By the end of this module you will learn the answers to the following questions

  • What is a Camera system and all its parts?

  • What is the difference between Analog and IP systems?

  • What are the major cabling types you will see in these systems?

  • What is a network rack and what are the component you can normally find on one?