CCTV Security Systems
Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) have widely become an important crime prevention
and security measure. They are a TV system that does not broadcast TV signals to
the public but collect the images which are either directly viewed on a monitor
screen or are transferred to a monitor-recording device of some sort, where they
are available to be watched, reviewed and stored . The recording of images is helpful
to post-incident analysis in an investigation and may be used in evidence when convicting
an intruder.
We've all seen CCTV systems in public places such as shopping centres and in the
street, but they're also becoming quite popular among homeowners as a crime prevention
tool. Simple CCTV surveillance systems are now fairly cheap to buy and to install
- you can even install them yourself quite easily.
There are many different types of CCTV systems and they have different capacities
to meet a variety of objectives. One of the most recent developments is the web
camera server which uses the Internet for remote surveillance. CCTV systems usually
utilize CCD video cameras which produce the video and cable or wireless transmitters/receivers
or Internet to transmit and view the video. As the application of CCTV systems has
increased, the CCTV industry has developed variety of CCTV equipment like Time Lapse
VCRs, infrared illuminators, Pan/Tilt, combiners, etc.
CCTV deters 'opportunistic' crime, where people take advantage of a situation on
the spur of the moment. The cameras are also creating a vastly increased rate of
conviction after crimes are detected. Virtually everyone caught committing an offence
on camera pleads guilty nowadays. Once people know they have been videotaped, they
admit the offence immediately. Cameras will help solve crimes and act as a deterrent.
The cameras can be both activated by sensors similar to those used on security lights
or alarm systems or they can record "time lapse" images, taking still pictures at
a set interval. They can be set to record what going on in the vicinity outside
of your property when you are out, or keep watch on your car while you are at home
and/or asleep. You may want to set up cameras indoors to monitor certain rooms in
your home.
When installing a personal CCTV system there are some issues which you need to consider.
You don’t want to be accused of spying on neighboring properties so cameras should
only be pointed at your own property. You should not be deliberately viewing areas
outside of you own property’s boundary unless it is unavoidable
You can even buy concealed systems disguised as lamps outside/inside your home,
or even fitted into soft toys inside. You may have reason to e.g. watch how your
kids are being looked after by their
nanny
or a victim is being subject to domestic violence. But only consider this if you're
pretty sure there is something to be worried about.
When choosing a CCTV system, decide what it is you want to view and whether you
want to record this. Also carefully consider where you are going to locate the camera.
It is important to find a stable and secure fixing point that is well out of reach
of prying hands, but not too high that it is difficult to get to for maintaining
and changing the view.