CCTV Systems

Understanding the different types of CCTV Systems on offer

 

The main thing to consider when choosing CCTV systems is do you need a single or multiple camera system with a recording device and a monitor? CCTV systems are broadly divided into two known types, namely: wired CCTV systems and wireless CCTV systems. Wired CCTV systems bind all three key components of a CCTV system with cables while a wireless CCTV system comprises of a wireless camera that need not be connected to the recording device and monitor.

Both systems have advantages and disadvantages associated with the different types of technology.


 

Wireless CCTV Systems

 

Wireless CCTV systems are becoming more popular for CCTV buyers due to the easy installation, lack of cabling mobility. The main advantages to consider are:

 

  • A wireless camera can be moved to other locations requiring observation while it is difficult to move a wired camera.
  • Best suited for locations requiring temporary observation or in a temporary location.
  • Wireless camera can be hidden to detect theft or pilferage
  • Wireless recording and monitoring device need not be in the same line of sight allowing observation of any place from another  remote location.
  • Wireless systems are cost effective, re-deployable and portable.

 

Some disadvantages of wireless CCTV systems are:

 

  • Wireless systems require a dedicated frequency to transmit signals from the camera to the receiving and recording station.
  • Frequencies may be subject to various interruptions by use of electric motored products, air conditioning, fluorescent lighting or cordless telephones which affect the picture quality.
  • Wireless camera may not provide the best picture quality as such systems are susceptible to picture distortion while wired cameras provide relatively better picture quality.
  • Wireless CCTV cameras may need electric power which implies a wire runs through the camera though the video connection is wireless.
  • Wireless systems require wireless technology-specific expertise to diagnose and fix break downs in the system.

 

Wired CCTV Systems

 

Wired CCTV systems connect the camera to the recording device and monitor with normal standard coaxial cables or Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cables or even fiber optic cables for long distances.

 

The main advantages of wired CCTV systems are:

 

  • Provides the best picture quality with zero interference
  • The camera can be located hundreds of meters away from the recording or monitoring equipment.
  • All sensors can be run from a single power supply

 

The main disadvantages are:

 

  • Cabling and installing can be a tedious task, requiring help from experts
  • Observation is fixed to a specific area and the camera cannot be easily moved to another location.

 

The "round up"...

wireless cameras are usualy more expensive than wired cameras. Wireless CCTV systems are a good choice for specific locations which are not easily accessible for cables and for peaople needed an 'easy to install' solution.

The wired CCTV systems are a better choice for when good picture quality and reliability are essential.

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