CCTV is a monitoring system that allows a business to record footage based on the system’s programming.
A closed circuit television, or CCTV, describes a system that captures and records video on a closed, connected system. A CCTV system involves a direct cable or wireless connection between a camera, receiver and recording device. CCTV systems are used for surveillance purposes, to increase levels of safety and security.
Camera Systems are often implemented because they:
- Deter theft
- Reduce vandalism
- Monitor high risk or secure areas
- Ensure quality control
- Decrease liabilities (ex. fraudulent injury claims)
- Increase safety for staff in facilities and parking areas
- Provide evidence by recording from the earliest stages of break-in attempts
- Confirm remote processes are running properly
A CCTV system’s most basic purpose is to provide monitoring and surveillance of an area. This surveillance helps to deter illegal activity by offering the threat of prosecution, and documents the activity of those individuals not swayed by the presence of the CCTV system. Constant monitoring allows for immediate alert and response in cases of emergency, or evidence in legal cases.
A basic CCTV system consists of three components: a camera, monitor and recording (storage device). These pieces of equipment connect with coaxial cables or wireless signals, which carry the image data the camera captures for viewing and recording. Different styles and varieties of cameras are available depending upon your specific surveillance needs, including outdoor models, zoom cameras and dome types.
3 Types of CCTV Systems
- Analog – A traditional set-up where the cameras are connected via coaxial cable to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or monitor.
- IP – A mainstream, higher quality camera set-up that connects to an internet, allowing footage to be recorded and viewed anywhere in the world.
- Hybrid – For businesses with analog cameras looking to add to existing units, a hybrid system allows both analog and the higher quality IP cameras to run off the same DVR.
As well as assisting with detection, CCTV can also act as a deterrent. A building or an area with CCTV installed becomes a less attractive target if an offender is aware that his or her actions may be observed and recorded.