Closed Circuit Television
( CCTV )

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Static CCTV cameras Static CCTV cameras are useful for continually viewing and recording specific areas or events. They can prove restrictive if an intruder leaves the field of view. Correct lens selection is critical to achieve required objective. Consideration should be given whether facial or number plate recognition is required or a general site view is required. Static CCTV cameras are available in several types such as overt, where the camera housing acts as a deterrent, covert/discreet, where discreet cameras are required possibly for aesthetic reasons, and vandal resistant, where the camera itself could become the target of vandalism. Most static cameras are available in colour, monochrome and several have an audio facility available.

Dome/PTZ CCTV cameras Having the ability to follow an intruder or event, and zoom in is an essential tool for a security guard. All CCTV dome cameras are supplied with an automatic focus facility, allowing the security guard to concentrate on the incident, while the camera maintains a sharp picture. CCTV dome cameras also have the ability to automatically move to a preset position following an alarm activation, as well as user definable guard tours. To comply with current privacy laws CCTV dome cameras supplied Security Design & Installation Ltd include integral dynamic privacy zoning.

Covert CCTV cameras Covert cameras are a means of offering surveillance of an undetected or more discreet nature. Covert CCTV cameras are an excellent way of keeping a discreet eye to monitor and primarily gain essential evidence of a suspected criminal offence. An essential part of any covert installation is the ability to complete the installation out of normal working hours. We are able to carry out installations at a time convenient for you and your business. This includes out of business hours and at weekends. A covert camera system can ensure 24 hour discreet CCTV surveillance recordings. We are able to accommodate any possible environment with our range of specialist covert CCTV camera equipment. Recording CCTV images Not long ago the only option to record a multi camera CCTV system was to install a video recorder together with a multiplexer or switcher. The disadvantage of this type of system is that video recorder heads and tapes wear out and require regular replacement. Too often this degrading of record quality isn't noticed until the tapes are reviewed after an incident. With current technological developments digital CCTV recorders are becoming more commonly used and are generally considered as a preferred method of recording, due to image quality and reliability. However not all digital CCTV recorders provide the same features and record quality. Customers should consider the following points before accepting a digitally recorded security system. 1) image quality 2) update speed 3) record duration 4) could some cameras be event recorded?

CCTV monitors One of the other major considerations of a CCTV system is the CCTV monitor and the different types that are available. Where the monitors are placed in relation to the operator and how many images will be viewed on each monitor will determine what size of monitor you need. With so many advances in nano-technology, TFT and LCD monitors save space but generally do not have the same image resolution as CRT monitors. With digital CCTV becoming more common place and being able to view CCTV systems over a Company LAN or via the internet many customers opt to view, control and playback their CCTV systems using their desktop computer monitor or laptop.

Remote CCTV Monitoring The latest remote transmission systems give all of the advantages of remote monitoring combined with the assurance of knowing the system is working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. CCTV images including audio transmission can be transmitted over several communication networks, including; GSM, PSTN, ISDN, TCP/IP, LAN and WAN. Following publication of BS 8418 in September 2003, all CCTV systems installed and monitored in accordance with the requirements of BS 8418 will now be issued with Unique Reference Numbers (URN's) in the same manner as intruder alarm systems.

Specialist CCTV camera systems This type of camera is now that varied we have expanded this section onto a separate page. Click below to find out more information about facial and number plate recognition, I/P cameras, Rapid deployment cameras, OCTV cameras, and retail solutions. Click here for more information.

Lighting for CCTV systems The type and quantity of CCTV lighting plays an important part in achieving good quality CCTV images 24 hours a day. Generally black and white (monochrome) cameras are usually not as critical about the type of light as long as minimum lux level is taken into account. If light levels are too low a choice should be made of a more expensive light sensitive camera or to increase the lighting and/or adding infra-red illuminators. Colour cameras create a completely different set of challenges. First, the use of infra-red lighting provides no benefit to colour only cameras. The second challenge for colour cameras is the colour rendering produced by the exterior illumination. For instance, a green car under normal sunlight would produce a green image on a colour camera. However, under high pressure sodium lamps, the green car would actually look bluish. Although natural sunlight is always best, studies have shown that white metal halide lights will produce the best imaging results for a colour camera during low light conditions.

CCTV Data Protection Act The introduction of the Data Protection Act means that most CCTV installations designed to provide either crime prevention, crime detection or to enhance the safety of the public will now have to comply with the requirements of the Act. The Act applies to commercial and public CCTV systems only, so if your system is for your own private residence you do not need to comply with it. If your CCTV system includes a video recorder it is now a legal requirement that you operate that CCTV system in accordance with the Data Protection Act. You can download a free CCTV warning sign under the Help and Support section of this web site. You can notify the Information Commissioner by clicking the link below and typing CCTV into the seatch field or by telephoning 01625 545700 for an information pack. for further information, click here.