Installation of CCTV cameras: types of cameras, selection + installation and connection yourself

Video surveillance systems are firmly entrenched in our everyday life.Now it is difficult to imagine not only a large enterprise, but also a small store or office without them. By installing a video surveillance system, we protect our homes from unwanted visits.

When thinking about purchasing such equipment, you have to face a lot of questions. Which video system is better, what are its characteristics, how to choose a suitable model, is it possible to independently install CCTV cameras and connect them? Our detailed review will help you understand all this.

Types of CCTV cameras

There are various types of cameras available in this market segment. They differ from each other in operating principles, design, and technical characteristics.

Based on the principle of operation, there are two large groups of devices:

• analog;
• digital.

Visually it is difficult to distinguish them, but if you know some nuances, you will never confuse them.

Video surveillance is necessary to have a complete picture of what is happening behind the door or fence of your home. Thus, you will be able to promptly identify what potentially threatens your safety and respond accordingly

Based on design features and installation location, the most popular types are:

1. Classic or cabinet. They are installed mainly outside, provided they are equipped with a thermal casing.
2. Dome. Most often they are installed on the ceiling indoors, but can also be used for outdoor installation.
3. Rotary. The user at the remote control can expand such a device and enlarge the image. The system is convenient when you need to instantly respond to a situation.
4. Panoramic. Provide maximum visibility while minimizing the presence of “dead” spots. If necessary, the picture can be divided into separate fragments.
5. Mini cameras. Indispensable when covert surveillance is necessary.

Street cameras (street) are present in both large and small objects. Important characteristics for them are distance from the object, viewing geometry, and picture resolution.

Typically, these models are equipped with IR illumination and a housing that protects from external influences. It is important that it is possible to configure individual parameters automatically.

An external camera installed near a payment terminal or ATM must be equipped with a vandal-proof housing and shock-proof glass that cannot be broken by intruders

Dome cameras installed in offices, shopping centers, educational and medical institutions, and stores. The device is a small semicircular sphere.

The device has a viewing angle ranging from 60 to 100⁰. They come in black and white and color, with or without backlighting. They are compact, have a weak response to interference, and can be photographed both during the day and at night.

Dome PTZ cameras used to protect large areas. Their rotation occurs through the Ptz mechanism. You can even activate the camera remotely. The picture can not only be rotated, but also scaled.

Installation of such a camera is also possible indoors. The high level of security of this equipment allows it to be used in difficult weather conditions, in the nuclear and chemical industries.

PTZ cameras have a wide viewing angle, good image quality, and a high security class. There is only one drawback - the high price

Box cameras. Their popularity is small - they are not very convenient due to the fact that you need to assemble them yourself with a lens and bracket.

They are mainly installed outside, and if inside, then only in such specific places as, for example, a bank cash desk. This camera produces a high-quality image, the signal transmission range is quite large, and the lens can be changed depending on the distance to the object.

Mini cameras can be powered by a battery; there are both wired and wireless models. They record to a mobile device via a GSM module or to a memory card. They have an increased protection class and good technical characteristics.

No. 1 - digital cameras and their characteristics

A digital or IP camera captures the signal in digital form and transmits it in the same form to the consumer via a computer network.

Externally, this camera differs from others only in its connector. If in analog devices this is a BNC - coaxial radio frequency connector, then the IP camera is equipped with a twisted pair connector - RJ-45.

Such a video surveillance camera is connected to a computer, but it should be taken into account that it is not worth building the entire surveillance system on the basis of a home computer.

It is not designed for continuous operation 24/7 and will break down very quickly, especially if several cameras are included in the system.This may be too much stress for the hard drive.

It is better to immediately purchase a DVR, although many IP cameras are independent devices and have an individual web interface.

There are cameras with a connector for a flash drive or with a slot for an SD card where you can archive recordings. In this case, there is no need for a DVR.

In an IP camera, the video signal goes through an encoding and compression procedure. This requires considerable hardware power. The interaction of the video camera with the network also increases the load. All these factors explain the high price of the device.

The great advantage of digital video cameras is that even if you are on the other side of the world, you can watch what is happening in your office or home through your laptop monitor or mobile smartphone.

Cameras based on IP technologies differ from each other in the design of their housings.

IP cameras can be connected to cloud storage; with their participation, you can create a large-scale video surveillance system and include a large number of devices in it.

If you need remote access to an IP camera, you need to provide an Internet entry point in the system in the form of a router or Wi-Fi router

Thanks to an invulnerable authorization system and reliable data encryption, a high degree of security is guaranteed for users.

These devices also have great integration potential. You can remotely control video surveillance, lighting, and fire protection systems from one device.

Video recording from digital IP has high resolution, which allows you to see small details, clothing, and a person’s face without blur.

Analogue cameras do not provide such a clear picture; it is difficult to identify what you see.This is explained by the fact that the analog video signal is generated using a TVL interleaving system.

In digital cameras, the alternation of lines is eliminated by using sequential scanning technology. The IP camera clearly captures fast moving objects.

No. 2 - features of analog cameras

An analog camera can be easily recognized by looking at the description. If there are three English letters NVL, it is an analog camera.

This format is the simplest - there is a camera in the circuit, and two conductors are connected to it. One of them supplies power, the other receives a signal. The output picture is not of very good quality.

The image from an analog camera entering the matrix is ​​transformed into an analog signal and sent to the recording device via a coaxial cable.

The resolution limit of analog cameras for video surveillance is 720 x 576 pixels, which is several times lower than in modern digital cameras.

Such cameras, capable of transmitting images only over a short distance, are called simply analogue or CVBS. Such outdated standards include VGA, D1, 960H devices.

No. 3 - new standards or HD cameras

An HD camera is built on the same principle as a simple analog camera, only this is a more advanced type in which three main formats are combined: TVI, AHD, CVI. This is a breakthrough in analog video surveillance.

They can transmit images with the following resolution:

• 0.4 MP - 722*576;
• 1 MP - 1280*720;
• 2 MP - 1920*1080;
• 3 MP - 2048*1536;
• 5 MP - 2560*1920.

Their quality is comparable to IP cameras. The latest equipment is capable of conveying maximum clarity of images captured on site.

The image acquisition mechanism can be briefly described as follows:

1. After passing through the lens, the image is focused on the CCD matrix.
2. Light energy is converted into electrical charge.
3. Electrical charges are converted into an analog signal.
4. The signal is transmitted through the cable to the receiving device.

There is no conversion of the electrical signal into binary code; it arrives unchanged at the recording device. This is what distinguishes analog cameras from digital ones.

This greatly simplifies the observation process; there is no need for processing on a computer.

From this photo we can draw conclusions about the level of information content of the image from the simplest analog cameras and AHD technology cameras

If you connect an analog video camera to a digital converter, it will be possible to receive signals from several cameras.

When purchasing any camera from the AHD, HD-CVI, HD-TVI categories, you should know that they are all incompatible with each other, since they are produced by different companies. When buying a camera of a certain standard, you need to select a DVR that supports the same standard.

HD-SDI devices are standardized, so they are compatible with all DVRs. IP cameras are standardized by the international cross-industry organization ON VIF.

This organization is engaged in standardization of equipment and IP cameras, among other things. They also develop specifications for them. Video cameras of the same specification are compatible.

Rules for choosing CCTV cameras

Given the abundance of offers on the market, it is difficult to decide which camera to choose. First of all, you need to decide on the standard by assessing a number of parameters.

Functionality. If you need a high-quality picture, it is important to have intelligent options - motion detection, presence detection, high detail - then you need to purchase an IP camera.

The table for comparison summarizes popular video technologies that are used in video surveillance devices. They all vary in installation complexity. The highest for the IP standard (+)

Another nuance: although there are cameras that work autonomously, you cannot include a large number of them in the system - optimally no more than four. Otherwise, it is better to use the option with a DVR.

Permission. With the transition of analogue cameras to HD format, this parameter has become closer to the characteristics of IP cameras. This standard is applicable to any objects, but still small details may not be considered.

The price is in favor of their choice, but their functionality is lower and they definitely need a DVR.

Installation location. If you need to install a video surveillance system outside, then the cameras must have the appropriate characteristics. Dome cameras without additional protection are well suited for indoor installation.

Lens viewing angle and focal length. A wide-angle short-focus lens is a good solution for a cottage or office.

A long lens with a maximum 45-degree field of view is a good option for entering a home or for monitoring a distant subject when clear detail is a priority.

The amount of space covered is directly proportional to the viewing angle. The smaller this parameter, the higher the detail if there is a small area under video surveillance (+)

There are cameras equipped with a lens that has a specific focal range, ranging from 2.8 to 12 mm.Such devices are called “varifocal”.

Based on your needs, you can adjust the viewing angle yourself. The cost of such cameras is significantly higher than devices equipped with a lens with a stable focal length.

Some consumers, when buying a camera, focus on the number of megapixels. This is not entirely true. Very often it is difficult to see a big difference in image quality from a 2 and 8 MP IP camera. But the cost differs significantly.

Photosensitivity. This parameter is of great importance when choosing a camera for 24-hour surveillance. This is the minimum light threshold at which the camera can operate.

The higher this parameter, the clearer the picture obtained at dusk and at night. Almost all of the latest models have IR illumination, so video surveillance is effective even when it is completely dark.

Taking these circumstances into account, it is imperative to look at what lighting conditions the camera is designed for. Before doing this, you need to measure this parameter with a lux meter in the place where the video camera is supposed to be installed. If in the future the device will operate around the clock, the photosensitivity should be at least 0.01 lux.

Since illumination cannot be stable throughout the day, you need to make sure that the camera design includes automatic adjustment of the aperture opening. Such devices are capable of maintaining a stable light flux entering the matrix.

A varifocal lens is a single optical system. Its elements move in relation to each other. Due to this, the focal length and scale of the image change smoothly

Cameras that support WDR are of higher quality.Even many economy cameras support this feature, allowing you to produce images without deep shadows and too bright areas.

The only difference is that expensive cameras are equipped with genuine WDR, while budget cameras are equipped with “analogues”.

If video surveillance must not stop either day or night, and the information from the camera must be as detailed as possible, you need a model with a “day-night” mode. As soon as night falls, it switches to monochrome mode automatically. The IR filter cannot provide a color image.

Availability of backlight. A camera that will work at night must have infrared illumination. The key parameter of IR illumination is range. For indoors, 10–20 m is enough, outdoors – more than 20 m.

IR illumination is practically invisible to the human eye, and therefore does not reveal the location of the camera. The energy consumption of the device increases with this function.

The latest camera models are equipped with adaptive backlighting. Its role is to adjust power depending on the location of objects located near the camera.

Self-installation of the system

If you are planning to increase the security of your home by CCTV installations, you can choose two ways to implement this idea: turn to specialists or install CCTV cameras yourself.

The first method is quite expensive, but the second is quite feasible if you are familiar with modern technology and a drill is a familiar tool for you.

Stage #1 - planning and video surveillance schemes

From the very beginning, you need to decide on the installation location, the number of cameras and their purpose.If you have a private house or cottage, then surveillance should cover not only the interior premises, but also the surrounding area.

Cameras are most often installed in an apartment to monitor the situation during the absence of the owners. It is advisable to have them in living rooms, especially in places where some valuables are stored. It is worth considering installing a camera at the entrance to the apartment.

Having decided on general issues, we begin to develop a scheme. The locations for the intended laying of wires are chosen so that they do not intersect with the existing power line.

It may interfere with the video signal if the distance to it is less than one meter. Protection in the form of a metal sleeve will also protect you from interference; wires are inserted into it and grounded.

The video recording system will allow you to monitor strangers, patients and children in your absence. If intruders suddenly break in, all events will be recorded, which will help law enforcement officers solve the crime more quickly

The next step is to determine the viewing angle. Depending on your purposes, it can be adjusted to show fine details, or you can increase the grip while sacrificing detail.

Next, you should consider where to place the DVR and monitor. Given confidentiality, access to them should be limited. It’s good if there is a separate closed room or at least a closet.

Stage #2 - system installation

They start by installing the video cameras themselves. Inside they are placed under the ceiling. The main thing is that they are located near outlets. Outside, video surveillance devices are placed so that they cannot be torn off.

Camera installation consists of several operations:

• dismantle the mounting casing;
• apply it to a pre-selected place and make markings through the mounting holes;
• take a hammer drill and drill a wall or ceiling, after which they insert dowels;
• apply the casing, aligning the mounting holes on it with those drilled on the attached plane;
• screw in screws and add a lens to the body;
• set the viewing angle of the device.

Experts do not recommend installing video surveillance devices too high. A clear image can be obtained if the camera is no more than 4 m away from the ground. In order not to expose the picture, the camera should not be placed opposite the sun.

If you need night photography, you need IR illumination. If it is not there, you will also have to install additional lighting, so it is better to take this point into account when purchasing a camera

In addition to fastening with self-tapping screws, there are other options: suction cups, Velcro. The first method of mounting video devices is still considered the most reliable.

Stage #3 - connect the video camera correctly

There are only two types of connection: to a power source and to a device that receives information.

To food. Since each camera contains an adapter through which a reduced voltage is supplied, its plug is simply connected to an outlet. The plug located at the other end is inserted into the chamber. For this purpose there is a special socket on the back of the camera casing.

To the receiving device. For the second connection option, it is necessary to have a wire equipped with BNC -RG6 connectors. There is an output for it on the video device, and an input on the receiver.

Connecting a wireless camera is even easier. A disc with the program is usually included with the camera. All that remains is to install it on your computer.

Next, connect the router via wi-fi, then the camera itself. It is connected to the network and, using network cable, connect to the router.

The next step is to configure the network parameters in the program itself. To do this, enter the key and other data and disconnect the network cable. After rebooting, the camera will automatically connect to the router. Now the image transmitted by the camera will become available.

Video cameras can be an element of an intelligent “smart home” system that controls various equipment in the room. Read more about the design and capabilities of such a complex in this article.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

To make it easier for you to understand the intricacies of installing equipment and connecting it, we suggest watching the following video, which covers these issues in detail:

The main condition for choosing the right video camera is its compliance with the conditions where it will be used. Even if the selected equipment turns out to be far from cheap, and you have to spend a lot of effort on its installation, the safety of your home is worth it.

If you have doubts about your own abilities, then the best option would be to contact an organization/company specializing in the installation of video surveillance systems, including cameras and other equipment.

Are you choosing CCTV cameras for a private home? Or do you have experience installing and using such equipment? Please leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.