Purchasing CCTV Cameras for Home Security

Security has become so important that nobody is leaving anything to chance. People are sparing no pence in securing their homes, offices, places of worship and entertainment spots. CCTV cameras form an integral part of any CCTV security system that its procurement process should not be bungled. Currently, the market is saturated with different brands of CCTV cameras that consumers tend to get confused about what they really need. It’s a tough choice. Purchasing CCTV cameras Enumerated below are some of the considerations you should look at before purchasing CCTV cameras.

Number of Channels

This should be the number one consideration before purchasing CCTV cameras. It is the number of channels that determines the cameras to be bought. Cameras are typically sold in four, eight, sixteen and thirty-two channels. Experts advise that you go for the highest number of channels so that you are covered in case of any future expansions. Secondly, you will enjoy the economies of scale when you make bulk purchases.

Visual Quality

This refers to the quality of videos and images in either 720p or 1080p resolutions. If you have a high resolution, then you are guaranteed quality video and pictures. During forensic investigations, the clarity of videos and images have always helped to find what exactly transpired at the scene.

Vision Ability at Night

A CCTV camera should be able to capture images and videos when there is poor or low lighting. Crimes and break-ins have been known to happen mostly at night and as such the camera should be useful in such circumstances.

The Focal Length

Focal length has been defined as the distances from the lens to the image sensor when the focus is on the object. It is usually measured in millimeters (30mm, 20mm, 10mm, etc.) CCTV cameras can either have a varifocal or fixed length. Varifocal cameras are the best since their lenses can be adjusted to meet specific criteria. They can be zoomed to focus on an object. Fixed length on the other cannot be adjusted.

Motion Detection

This is the ability of the camera to sense motion and immediately start recording. It is during recording that either an SMS/email alerts are sent or the alarm is activated for reinforcement. The advantage of a motion detector is that the hard disk will never be filled recording nothing.

Location

Specific cameras are made in such a way that they are to be located at specific points. Dome-shaped cameras are best suited for indoors while bullet shaped cameras are to be used outdoor for monitoring. They are not prone to weather conditions, and as such, they will never be damaged by the rain or the sun.

Lastly, the factors listed are essential in purchasing CCTV cameras and should never be considered in isolation. Other factors may come into play such as the federal laws etc. Other components of the CCTV system like the cost and added features should also be put into consideration. Technology continues to improve such that it is now possible to view remotely what is happening at your house or office.