CCTV, short for closed-circuit television, is a camera system where the signal is monitored by one or more people, usually in close proximity, for security reasons. The camera’s signal is broadcast to a monitor in either real-time or as recorded data, depending on the user preference. A recorded session would be best to recover any necessary footage, but this option usually has a monthly or yearly cost associated with it. Both businesses and private residences can use a CCTV system. There are many types of cameras used with these systems; they are defined below.

  • Fixed cameras record only one spot. They cannot be rotated or tilted for a better view.
  • PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras allow operators, using a joystick or another manipulation device, to move the camera around on its mount to follow a moving object. They can also zoom in to get a closer look at an object.
  • Dome cameras allow the operator to move side to side and top to bottom. These are often used in retail stores, where there might be a need to observe someone potentially shoplifting. Empty dome cameras are sometimes used as decoys to try to deter shoplifting.
  • Discreet cameras are hidden in different objects, so individuals committing criminal offenses don’t suspect they’re being recorded.

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  • Camera help and support.
  • Monitor, LCD, and display help and support.