CCTV Camera Kit
A CCTV camera kit includes the cameras, recording technology and monitors that facilitate arguably the most important function of any security system: surveillance. You’ll also need the proper wiring, routers and power supplies to support your chosen systems.
Look for a wireless option that connects to your WiFi network and requires fewer cables. Specialty indoor cameras include those that dispense treats for pets or babies, while outdoor models combine floodlights and cameras for the ultimate intruder deterrent.
High-Definition Security Cameras
High definition security cameras can deter criminal activity and capture clear video evidence if an incident occurs. They also provide useful monitoring of the home, allowing you to monitor activities at all times of day and night. With higher resolution and a wide range of features, HD security cameras can pick up small details that other types may miss.
If you’re looking for a new camera to upgrade your current system, consider choosing one with a 1080p resolution or higher. These cameras can be connected wirelessly or via coaxial cable and feature night vision and remote viewing capabilities. Some models are equipped with motion detection, letting you know when someone comes into view. Others can be controlled using voice commands with Alexa and other smart devices.
Keep in mind that the image quality of your camera can be affected by how it’s configured and the screen you’re using to view it. A camera with a higher resolution will produce more video data, which in turn can consume more storage space. To avoid this, you should always back up your footage on a regular basis and choose an encode mode that best suits your budget and storage needs.
Network Video Recorders (NVRs)
NVRs are a great way to add high-resolution video to your security camera kit without adding additional cables. They also let you watch live feeds on the go with mobile apps, making them ideal for businesses that need to keep an eye on their sites remotely.
Some NVRs come bundled with the video management software of your choice, making them ready to use right out of the box. Others require a base station that plugs into your router and stays in one place.
If you have a large number of cameras to wire, consider creating a central surveillance hub. A central location makes it easy to run all of the cables to a single DVR and eliminates the need for multiple monitors, which can be difficult to coordinate.
Connect your cameras to your NVR using a standard Ethernet cable, and then cctv camera kit make sure that the monitors can see all of the cameras. Some will display all of them at once, while others have “input” buttons to allow you to cycle through each. If you can’t get all of your cameras to appear on the monitors, check that all of the connections are secure and that all of the components are powered and turned on.
Digital Video Recorders (DVRs)
DVRs record a series of images to a hard drive and transmit the data over a wired or wireless connection. They are typically used to monitor commercial and public safety spaces or smaller residential properties that do not require multiple cameras or extensive network coverage.
DVR systems tend to be less expensive than NVRs and can be installed using existing coaxial cable connections. They are also able to improve the quality of analog CCTV security camera footage, without the need for costly next-generation upgrades.
Some DVRs are capable of recording multiple cameras at once, allowing you to capture footage from several rooms or areas. Others can record in a format that is easier for editing software to process, speeding up the editing workflow. This type of DVR is called a DTE recorder or direct to edit system.
Power Supplies
Power supplies are the heart of a security camera system. Using a low quality power supply can cause image distortion, flickering and even damage to your equipment. Choose a high-quality power supply that is capable of handling the maximum current draw of your cameras.
CCTV camera power supplies come in a variety of different configurations. Some have a single output stream and can only power one device, while others have multiple streams and can support up to 16 devices at once. Some also include an earthling plug for safety.
Most installers will use a power adapter and splitter for systems with four or less cameras, cctv camera kit while larger installations will prefer to use a power distribution box. The power distribution box is a more elegant solution as it allows you to neatly route the power cables for all of your cameras in a central location instead of having multiple power adapters scattered throughout your installation. It also gives you the ability to monitor all of your cameras from a single point and ensures that they are all receiving proper power.
Monitors
Monitors facilitate arguably the most important function of any security camera system: viewing captured images and footage. The monitor you select will mostly depend on your camera and recording options, but high-definition monitors tend to offer the best image quality and detail.
The monitor you choose will be able to display all cameras connected to your system. In a wired setup, this means you’ll need to make sure that your cable extenders are long enough to reach all of the cameras in your house. Use a camera map or layout to plan where your cameras and cables will go, and drill the camera mount holes according to your plan.
For wired systems, you’ll need a video recorder to store your CCTV camera footage. These devices are available as standalone units or as part of a complete system. Network video recorders, or NVRs, allow you to view your footage from a computer or mobile device. They can also provide crystal-clear HD video and work with older analog cameras with BNC connections. The monitoring solution PRTG from Paessler combines IT and OT for better business processes.