If you are in the market for a home CCTV system there are a
number of factors to consider in making the best choice. Below is an overview of some of the
characteristics and differences of home CCTV systems to help you make your
selection.
Wired home CCTV systems
These are the most common and cheapest type of camera, where
a wire plugs directly from the camera to the monitor. The downside is that the
wires, including extension cables and connectors, can be difficult to lay.
Wireless home CCTV systems
Images can be transmitted using analogue or digital
technology. Digital cameras are generally higher quality but more
expensive. Wireless systems can suffer from interference from devices such
as routers, cordless phones and microwaves, and can be blocked by heavy masonry
or metal objects. Your filming may also be interrupted if your Internet
connection is lost.
IP CCTV systems
These are cameras that use your network or internet portal
to send images to your computer's router, allowing you to access the footage
over the internet from remote locations.
Outdoor home CCTV cameras
If you’re using CCTV cameras outside, make sure they’re
weatherproof – an IP (International Protection) rating of 66 is recommended.
Wireless cameras are available, but you’ll still have to run a cable to a power
source. Position cameras where they can’t be tampered with, but can be accessed
for maintenance and cleaning. You can by vandal-proofing cameras, but these
tend to cost more.
Indoor home CCTV cameras
Indoor CCTV cameras come in three types: wired, wireless and
power line networked (these plug into your electrical sockets and transmit
images to a storage device). Wireless cameras are not recommended inside the
home unless the signal can be encrypted, as anyone within range and using a
suitable receiver would be able to view the images.