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.