DIGITAL VIDEO SECURITY APPLICATION TIPS:

Color vs B/W
If the lighting conditions will be in low light areas such as outdoors, dim restaurants, and dim factories, then we suggest you use B/W. If the viewing areas are well lit, then color would be acceptable.The reason is that B/W cameras can produce image in low light condition and color cameras need more light for a good image. B/W cameras can also utilize the addition of “Infrared Illuminators” to help them see in low light conditions. Color camera cannot use infrared illuminators. If you need to see that a customer is at a counter, but you are not concerned about the color of his outfit then a B/W system would be adequate. If you are concerned that this same person needs to be positively identified and that could mean knowing the color of his outfit, then a color system should be used.

Monitor Size
The bigger the monitor size - the better it will be to view image details. If you only want to know about events that occur, then a 5” B/W monitor would be OK, but if you want to view more details and want better potential for identification, then choose a larger monitor that is at least 12” or more.

Number of Cameras
If you want to view more than one area, and you will need at least one camera per area. In some cases you may require two or more cameras in an area. A general rule of thumb would be that each camera should cover an area of no more than 30 ft if good identification is required. Cameras usually come with cable that is about 63 ft. But the cable length can be extended to go further to 300-400 feet with approved extension cables.

Wired vs Wireless Systems
Wherever possible “wired video” should be the first consideration as it produces a clearer image and it is more reliable with less chance of interference. Wireless has its’ advantages in situations when Video Observation is only needed on a temporary basis or when the prospects of getting a wire between two points is next to impossible. Wireless is also excellent for simple observation applications when high definition is not criteria and when low cost solutions are the objective.

PIR Sensor explained
The small item mounted to the top of the camera is a PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor). It is a sensor that looks for, and detects the movement of objects by sensing heat sources. The PIR detection feature is a user option. When the feature is active the sensor will detect anything moving in front of the camera and the monitor will chime and bring that camera to full screen while at the same time triggering an output relay that can activate a professional VCR to start recording. This feature is great if you want notification and a recording of activity in front of any camera. Typical applications include unmanned lobby areas, receiving doors, back doors, restricted areas, and at times when the business is closed.

Camera Types: Dome, Bullet
Dome cameras are commonly used when there is a need to mount cameras to the ceiling. The benefit of the Dome camera is that you cannot see where the internal camera is facing and as such, it provides an illusion of increased surveillance. Domes are less obtrusive and generally accepted in any environment. Bullet cameras (commonly called Tube Camera or Lipstick Cameras) are smaller and less noticeable but they are visually directional in their viewing and they are weather resistant for outdoor applications.

Time Lapse VCR
Video surveillance is only as beneficial as the person watching it or the recording of the video for review at a latter time. Watching an event take place on a monitor will not be a benefit if you wish to enforce, prove or demonstrate anything unless it is recorded. We recommend a Time Lapse VCR that can record video over long extended periods of time without the need to change tapes and manage the recorder. Professional Time Lapse Recorders are not the same as consumer VCR’s. Consumer VCR’s are not designed to operate over long extended periods of time required for video surveillance. Time Lapse recorders can be setup to record in different modes that can capture up to 1280 hours of video before a tape change is required.

Audio
Care and discretion must be considered when using audio surveillance equipment especially when there is perceived privacy. You should inquire regarding federal, state and/or local regulations applicable to the lawful installation of video and or audio recording or surveillance. Party consent may be required.