CCTV Camera Tip: Apply Simple Common Sense when Picking CCTV Cameras and Lenses


Get a good face shot: Use Higher quality cameras at entry areas.

Doors, gates and other entry areas need a good quality, high resolution camera to record a good 'face shot.' The video from this camera should be considered a highly valuable since it can be used as evidence in identifying a person in a court of law.

Wide Angle Cameras for large surveillance areas

Once you can get a good shot of a persons face, you should use a wider angle camera lens for the interior surveillance spaces of the building. Using color cameras inside your building is a good idea because you can readily identify a person by the clothes they are wearing. Used in conjunction with the face shot at the entry point, you have an excellent record of all people and activities in your surveillance areas.

Consider the following when choosing a CCTV camera:

1. Sketch out a Floor Plan: Put in all camera locations. Consider the distance to your surveillance zone: Are you 5 feet or 15 feet away from your surveillance target area? It is best to locate your camera as close to the surveillance area first, then choose how much zoom you need. Do you need 4mm, 8mm or 12mm lens?

2. Field of view or area of surveillance: Take photos of areas you want to cover from the proposed camera locations.What lens you need depends what you want to see and how far away and how wide a viewing area. Wide angle and fisheye lenses are available.

3. Resolution: Do you want to capture a persons face or a car license plate? Each camera location will determine which lenses would maximize your surveillance potential. Do you need 50mm lens or standard 8mm?

4. Vandalism potential: Will your camera be subject to damage? Damage resistant cameras are available.

5. Lighting: Is the space well lit or dimly lit. Are the lights turned off at night? Do you want to monitor the area with the lights turned off? Do you need infrared cctv cameras or low light cameras?

6. Budget: Just like any technology, the more you spend, the better the system you get. Keep in mind a low cost camera is better than no camera at all.

About CCTV Cameras: Closed circuit television also known as CCTV is the industry standard in surveillance cameras. CCTV can be a single network of cameras or multiple networks of camera linked together via switches, internet or wide area computer technology. CCTV Video data is analog but can be converted to digital via CCTV Digital Video Recorders. Once the video data is digital it can be managed just like any other computer data and can be stored automatically on computers and network storage devices.

For more information on cctv cameras visit Camera Security Now or call toll free: 877-422-1907

John Beagle is president of Xponex Web and Media Services and can be reached at 513-422-1907x222. Xponex.com/