How does CCTV work?
A CCTV camera works in a similar way to a regular camera. It contains an internal SD card to record and store video data, which is transferred to a digital video recorder (DVR). It is possible to connect multiple cameras to a DVR, and an output can be connected to the DVR to display the video on a monitor. The equipment can be powered using a coaxial cable or by using separate power supplies for each camera. CCTV cameras can be analogue or digital.
Analogue v digital cameras
Digital cameras produce higher-quality images with a range of zoom options, which can be preferable when fine detail is required. Analogue cameras perform better in low light and are better for night-time surveillance or dark locations.
Digital cameras have the option of working wirelessly, which can be useful in areas where it is not viable to run a cable. Digital cameras have the added benefit of being scalable to a greater extent and with more ease due to reduced cabling requirements.
Digital cameras can be expensive to purchase; however, the cabling and labour costs of analogue should be taken into account.
What is CCTV used for?
CCTV is often used for security, to monitor specific locations, or for niche applications such as the CCTV drainage surveys Kingsbury offered by companies such as wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/drain-jetting/drain-jetting-kingsbury
Do CCTV cameras always record?
The default setting is usually for CCTV cameras to record continuously; however, this can be changed to record at specific times. This can be helpful when continuous recording is not required.
Can CCTV cameras work without the internet?
An internet connection can be helpful but is only required when the video needs to be accessed remotely. It is entirely possible to run a CCTV setup without an internet connection.
Can CCTV record sound?
Whether CCTV can record sound depends on the camera, but many have the ability to record audio with the addition of audio equipment. Analogue cameras need a microphone connected to the DVR, whereas digital cameras can often record via the camera.
