Everyone wants to feel secure. It’s a human necessity. And only when you feel safe then can you feel relaxed and happy. Achieving this level of security and happiness is what most aspire to, but it isn’t easy with the threat of crime lurking in the shadows of society. And it will continue to threaten our happiness indefinitely. Thankfully you can reduce this threat with closed circuit television (CCTV).
Let’s take a look at the importance of good CCTV and how it can help you reclaim your security.
What is CCTV?
CCTV is a method of video surveillance that uses video cameras to transmit live video feeds to a monitor. The ‘closed circuit’ aspect of its name refers to the fact that it’s not an open broadcast. The video feed is only available to those who are granted access. It first came to prominence as a security measure in the UK in the mid-1980s. And it’s now estimated that there are over 350 million CCTV cameras in use worldwide.
What Can CCTV Be Used For?
CCTV is a versatile form of surveillance. Cameras can be used to monitor interiors and exteriors of buildings. Working with the technology in this way allows the user to keep an eye on the following:
- Identifying any visitors to a property without physical contact
- Monitoring weak areas of security e.g. broken fencing
- Remote areas of a property that are unmanned
- Health and safety practices in workplaces
The live video feed coming from CCTV can also be recorded. Traditionally this was onto video tapes, but this format is now out-dated. Instead, digital files can be saved directly to hard drives. These recordings can, if necessary, be used as evidence e.g. identifying an intruder.
What Technology is Available?
CCTV technology has come a long way since the fixed cameras and bulky VHS tapes of the 1980s. Now it’s a form of technology that is perfect for the smart device revolution. Video feeds can be distributed across the internet to any device you like. For example, if you want to monitor visitors to your property, you can monitor exactly who is at your entrance. And this can be done on a smartphone, laptop or tablet.
Cameras, of course, are the most crucial part of CCTV technology. And a wide range of options are available:
- Network Cameras: These cameras are suitable for both domestic and commercial properties. With a lack of cabling, they can be easily set up and monitored from any smart device.
- Discreet Cameras: Small and subtle, discreet cameras can easily be concealed in everyday objects. This makes them perfect for indoor use and recording criminal activity such as theft.
- Dark Fighter Cameras: Areas of low light are particularly unsafe. And they cause the most concern among the occupants of buildings. However, a dark fighter camera can pick out colour images in low light conditions and provides a high level of awareness to viewers.
Upgrading your System
There are many benefits to upgrading your standard definition analogue CCTV system. Higher quality resolution will provide a clearer image and is an obvious advantage. Other advantages include better access via smart phones for example. Increased flexibility with a wireless CCTV security solution will enable the engineer to place cameras in locations where running cabling was previously an obstacle.
Choosing Your Best CCTV Option
Everyone’s needs differ when it comes to security. And you also have to factor in budgetary restrictions. That’s why many people are turning to security providers who can deliver a comprehensive CCTV package. Install costs, maintenance and access to recordings can all be taken care of. All you need to do is monitor your video feeds and revel in the security at your disposal.
Free surveys and quotes
For more information on finding the right CCTV solution for your needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch and speak to one of our expert engineers. We offer free CCTV surveys and quotations.