Camera Styles: Dome vs Box vs Bullet

There are several camera styles to choose from: Dome, Box, Bullet, Vandal-Resistant, and Spy.  Each has their own unique advantages and disadvantages.  First, I would like to discuss the Dome Camera:

The dome camera is one of the most versatile camera styles.  Many CCTV dome cameras offer 3-axis mounting.  This mounting option allows you to mount vertical, horizontal and diagonally.

Another advantage is the dome structure itself:  it offers a pleasing aesthetic look, blending in with the area of installation, and is usually offered in a variety of colors.  The dome structure also offers greater vandal resistance when mounted in close arm’s length.  This strength is very importance to consider when mounting for an application that involves lots of people in reach of the camera.  Applications such as convenience stores, banks, retail stores, bars and homes should first consider dome cameras.

A disadvantage is if you ever need to change the field of view, it is necessary to pull the dome cover off to adjust the camera.  Also, dome cameras are typically limited to a 12mm lens, so if longer distance or tighter shots are needed, this may not be the best choice.

The most commonly used camera, and probably the most versatile for distance viewing, is the box camera.  The box security camera is not used often for its looks (I mean it’s a box), but moreso to have a presence of security to ward off potential challenges.  A few advantages to consider when selecting box cameras:

• Inexpensive – there are many high resolution options that start under $100
• Audio – Among analog cameras many box cameras offers an audio microphone
• Large range of lenses – can capture both wide and small areas in addition to long distances – 2.8mm to 250mm+ lens available

• Dual power – box cameras can be powered with 12VDC or 24VAC
• Heated camera housing available – for cold weather conditions, a box camera can easily be placed in a heated enclosure

The disadvantages are the usually uninspired looks of the camera, and if mounted low, they could be tampered with.  Also make sure you know which power source is run to the camera before hooking it up.

 

Sleek and aerodynamic are characteristics that come to mind when I think of Bullet Cameras.  Not many things are more powerful than a locomotive and faster than a speeding bullet camera.

There are numerous spec choices with bullet cameras.  They offer fixed lens, varifocal, long range, and a plethora of features.

Most bullet cams are suited for outdoor applications because of their larger size, which additionally offers a great way to deter theft.  The bullet is very versatile because of the mounting bracket’s flexibility to swivel horizontally, and vertical adjustments can also be made with the simple turn of a screw or bolt.  A bullet camera is also well-suited for interior warehouse applications.

One area to consider before installing a bullet is how high or low you will mount the camera.  If you need to mount the camera less than 10 feet, and are worried about vandalism, then consider a different style camera.

CCD vs CMOS Chips: Battle of the Sensors

There has always been some kind of discussion behind the image processing chips that are embedded inside CCTV cameras. You have CCD (Charged Couple Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductors) chips. I have personally often wondered if the choice in these chips will impact the quality of the camera and how it performs.  After researching the two sensor technologies, I have come to find out that neither is really better than the other. There are, however, some interesting differences between CCD and CMOS chips.

Both types of imagers basically convert light into electric charge and process it into electronic signals. A main technical difference is in the way they process this light into electric signals. In a CCD chip, every pixel’s charge has to do with the output nodes that are transferred and the conversion of the voltage into an analog signal. In a CMOS sensor, each pixel has its own charge-to-voltage conversion, and the sensor often also includes amplifiers, and circuits that can correct noise and give an output in digital bits.

Since technology is always changing the CCTV industry, price is also taken into consideration. It has been said that CCD cameras are a little more expensive due to CCD chips being used in cameras that focus on high-quality images with lots of pixels and excellent light sensitivity. CCD sensors have been mass-produced for many years, so it’s a more mature technology.  CMOS cameras can be a little more cost effective, because they are traditionally of lower quality, lower resolution, and lower sensitivity.  But once again, technology is making it possible for CMOS chips to be used in IP cameras that give off high resolutions through mega pixel lenses.  CMOS sensors also consume less power than CCD (up to 100 times less), making them great for extending battery life.  So the playing field for both chips is starting to level out. Dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio can be other indicators as it relates to the size and performance of the chips.

So believe it or not, it really just depends on the application that is being executed to determine the strength of either chip.  Both CCD and CMOS imagers can offer excellent imaging performance when designed properly. So the next time you are looking into cameras, remember that it’s not really the chips you should be worried about; CCD and CMOS will remain complementary. The choice continues to depend on the application and the vendor more than the technology. And remember neither CCD nor CMOS chips have a clear advantage over the other as it relates to image quality.

Standalone DVR Pro Review: AP-FD Series

Having been a technician in the CCTV camera industry for several years now, I’ve been asked over and over: “Which is better, a PC based or standalone DVR?”  The answer pretty much depends on the application of the DVR; there are several factors to consider when selecting a DVR system that will suit an individual’s needs.

There is one feature that is presently not available from standalone DVRs, and that is the support of IP cameras. So far we have not seen any standalone DVR that will support an IP camera.

For the purpose of this blog, I am going to cover the feature-rich AP-FD series of standalone DVRs, which come available in 4, 9 or 16 channels.

On the image above you will see that there is a DVR burner on the machine. These machines have the option to add the DVD burner or a 2nd hard drive. The video quality on this DVR is very good and offers D1 image and H.264 recordings. Image quality, size and frame rate are customizable for each channel on the DVR. This is a feature that was not available in past standalone DVRs.

If you use a 2^nd hard drive you can set up a mirror RAID for added reliability. This is another feature that was not available on past DVRs.  You an add several PTZ cameras on this machine as it comes with several available protocols and a RS485 connector built into the back panel.  The DVR uses a mouse to navigate, this is a feature that most of the newer standalone DVRs have but 2 years ago, they were very hard to find. On all of the models, you can have up to 4 channels with audio.

This machine has the best Central Monitoring Software I have ever seen for remote connections with remote administration. The program can be used to connect to one or multiple FD DVRs at one time. In the shop, I have connected up to 16 machines at one time.

One of the highlights for me is that fact that when you burn video from this machine, it creates a self executing file that needs no conversion to play on a PC. This is a very good feature because all other standalones I have ever seen require burned video to be opened in a viewer supplied by the manufacturer and then converted so it will play on a PC.

Since I have been in this industry, I have seen more than 30 different models of standalone DVRs, and the FD series is the only one I have recommended to customers that are using PC based machines. The DVR is very easy to use, video is easy to control, the quality is great, and the machine is very reliable. I have recommended and converted 2 restaurant chains to this DVR, and the customers have been very happy with the new machines.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a License Plate Camera

Being a consultant in the security camera industry, I get a phone call everyday asking, “Will this security camera be able to capture a license plate?” or, “I bought this camera the other day and it doesn’t work right – it won’t pick up license plates.” It’s important to consider that not just any security camera can do that job, but rest assured you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg on one that can. Here are a couple of pointers to keep in mind when shopping for a license plate camera.

Pick the Right Camera

What a lot of people do not recognize is that if you want to capture a license plate with a camera, you’re going to have to purchase one that is used strictly for nothing but catching license plates. Unfortunately, it’s not quite as easy as getting any camera, setting the lens so the picture is wide, and then expecting to capture great detail. The best starting point is to look at box cameras. Box cameras themselves are small, but once you put them inside an outdoor housing, they become bulky but ideal solutions. Box cameras usually allow swappable lenses, so with the correct zoom lens, the camera can easily be pointed and manually zoomed to the right location for license plate sightings. Believe it or not, the picture in the upper right hand corner was taken at 100ft away. We used an IP camera and added a 5 – 50mm lens and were able to catch this view 100 feet away (and really could have gotten it further). Although that is an impressive plate caught with an IP camera, you can get the same result with an analog camera (sometimes even better). This picture in all black and white, was taken by a License Plate Recognition Camera, and believe it or not, it’s an analog.

Pick a Good Spot for the Camera

A decision that is just as important as picking the right camera is picking a spot for the camera, or picking a spot so the camera can see the spot that is ideal for catching license plates. There are a few situations that are just absolutely ideal for catching plates, such as directly before a speed bump, in front of a stop sign, or even at the driveway where cars will be pulling in and out. You will greatly increase your chances of capturing a license plate if you pick the spot in your parking lot where the cars are forced to slow or stop.

Illumination Range

Unless the area you are trying to capture license plates is very well lit 24/7, you will have to consider the illumination range. Illumination range is the distance the IR lights will reflect so the camera can see in the dark. If you use a box camera, you may have to use an IR illuminator (which will add IR to any camera) if your camera lacks infrared options. Be mindful that the particular license plate camera will not need to see to the end of the parking lot, just to the area where you are hoping to see the plate.

Catching license plates is something that isn’t very hard if you know what camera to buy, what lens to put on that camera, where to point the camera, and have sufficient lighting. While this may involve moving the camera around a few times to acquire an optimal position, it’s ultimately an easy and worthwhile use of time.

 

3 Common Mistakes When Integrating a Camera System

When dealing with CCTV security systems, many things can go wrong if you don’t do your research. This article will outline the 3 most common mistakes and misconceptions I tend to encounter.

• No wires = more problems: The many issues that surround wireless cameras more often than not outweigh its ease of use. First off, wireless cameras are not truly wireless. Your cameras will still need some kind of power source to connect to. Unless your camera is far from your application, wired might just be the way to go. The next issue that comes up with wireless is the point to point. If there is anything that could be block your wireless adapters (trees, buildings, etc) then you can run into signal issues as well. All in all, the safe and cost effective approach to this point is usually the way to go.
• Power distribution: Another common issue that I run into is when people tell me that their infrared doesn’t work, or that their cameras don’t work at night. Also, some users will say that one camera works, and the same camera on the other end doesn’t. This isn’t a problem with the camera so much as it a problem with the power supply to the camera. Don’t take the cheap approach on power supplies and skimp out on the wattage. Also, remember that infrared cameras will go through more power at night.
• The right camera for the right job: No single camera application is the same. That means that you’re going to want the right camera for your home or business. It’s very important to gather all the information possible when doing your due diligence on cameras. Some questions that you have to ask yourself are…”Will my camera need to be weather/vandal proof?”  ”How far away does my camera need to be able to see?”  ”Do I want my camera to be noticeable, aesthetically pleasing, or something hidden and stealth?”  Also, “Which style am I looking for: box style, dome, or bullet?”  With the a truly helpful site, everything from temperature range, viewing angles, resolution quality etc, is readily available at your fingertips.

At the end of the day, it is very important to do your homework before implementing a camera solution.

 

CCTV Camera Monitoring from Smartphones

You are stuck in traffic and you tap your phone to see your home.  Within seconds you have a real time video of your den, barn, kitchen, front door, pool, garage and hall to the kids bedrooms.

Now this data is not only there for you to see in traffic but you can rewind, stop and play back any events of the day while at lunch.  Did the mail come?  Was the yard mowed? Did Rover get fed?  Did Sally do her homework?

While getting ready to head home from the office you can see just a few important things like is the pool clean? Are the kids doing their homework? Are the horses in their stalls?  Is babysitter  treating my kids in a professional and caring manner?

There are situations when some of these questions don’t need answers in your world; however,  if you have anything of value in the home, business, or farm, why not keep a good eye on it?  Growing up we were told you have the whole world in the palm of your hand.  You do now.  With CCTV cameras, a DVR system, and a smartphone, you really do.

Fixed or Varifocal?

So you need a camera security system for your home or business and have varying distances to cover, what can you do?  A standard security camera with a 3.6mm lens will basically cover a boxed area.  So if you are viewing your CCTV system from 10 feet then you will see 10 by 10.  If you view from 50 feet away then your horizontal view will be 47 feet.  For longer distances, consider investing in a CCTV system that offers cameras with 4-9mm lenses or 2.8-12mm lenses.  The advantages to these cameras are nearly endless, allowing you or the installer to customize and maximize every camera and viewing angle.

 

What is a DVR?

DVRs are versatile pieces of equipment.  The main function of a CCTV DVR is to record the feeds of your cameras.  But as with everything in technology, they have evolved into more sophisticated devices.  The DVR can be a standalone or PC-based.  Also, you have the option to use either analog CCTV cameras or IP (internet protocols).  Finally, if you are on the go, like most working professionals, you can view your DVR from any computer that is running windows or from your smartphone.  With this kind of versatility and viewing options, modern DVRs will put you at your home or place of business right in front of you even if you are half way around the world.

 

Security Cameras in Our Growing Technological Society

Within our rapidly-growing technological society, CCTV Cameras are gradually becoming a larger part of our lives. As security concerns grow in a post-9/11 world, and as affordable security cameras become more prevelent, we are beginning to see the implementation of security cameras not just in homes and businesses, but also out on public streets.

 

Retail Loss Prevention, Before and After Security Cameras

Most all retail business owners at some point or another have considered purchasing security cameras to protect their investments. Sometimes this consideration may be because of customer theft (shop lifting) or protection against shrinkage caused by their own employees, which can be a terrible threat. But, do security cameras actually reduce product loss, do they actually work?

According to the latest National Retail Security Survey reports, here are the major culprits of retail shrinkage.

Inventory Shrinkage Sources	% Loss	Loss in Dollars ($)
Employee Theft	48.5%	$15.1 Billion
Shoplifting	31.7%	$9.7 Billion
Administrative Error	15.3%	$4.8 billion
Vendor Fraud	5.4%	$1.7 billion
TOTAL		$31.3 billion

Source: National Retail Security Survey

The major thing that I left out of this chart is that these are the statistics for the year 2002. Returning to the same retail location year after year here are the newer reports:

 

By studying the charts, you can see that between the years 2009 and 2010 there was actually a decrease in the number of thefts. That is the first time in a decade that number has gone down. Not only has the number of thefts gone down, but it has gone down in the middle of one of the worst recessions the US has ever seen.

What has caused this decrease? Although people are not willing to directly give security cameras the credit for this decrease, between 2009 and 2010, security camera sales have gone up 200%, and experts say between 2010 and 2012 sales are projected to increase another 200%. This increase in sales seems to be a good clue for the reason thefts are down.

As a business owner, before you run out and purchase the first security camera system you see, there are a few things that need to be planned out first. How many security cameras do you need, indoor and outdoor (because they are different)? Where are you going to place them and how far is this placement away from the DVR? Are they going to need to be able to see in the dark? And be mindful of the chart. It is a very unfortunate thing but most of the thefts come from your own employees. So, do you have enough coverage watching them as well?

While planning out the cctv camera system, you may want to call into a sales representative because well, that’s what they do. They can also offer some great insight on what some of these camera systems are capable of. Like, you can actually hook up your cash register to your camera system and have everything the operator rings up pop on the security camera screen. Therefore, with a good enough camera you can see what bill is taken, what change is given, and see the amount of money that was suppose to be given.

Whether you truly desire to catch someone in the act of stealing from you or you just desire to have a great deterrence system, you can not go wrong with cctv cameras. Believe it or not, by buying cameras, you will actually save money.

 

 

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