CCTV Packages and Components

A basic analog CCTV system has 3 components: cameras, digital video recorder, cables.

CCTV Cameras

CCTV cameras are the eyes of a CCTV system. They convert the image they see into video signals which can be sent to either a viewing device like a TV screen or a video recorder. They are usually connected to a digital video recorder since they cannot record video on their own.

CCTV cameras come in different shapes, sizes and types. There is a CCTV camera for a specific application. Weatherproof cameras are suitable for outdoor monitoring, infrared cameras are for dark environments and dome cameras are for indoor use.

Digital Video Recorder

As mentioned earlier, CCTV cameras cannot record video on their own. For video to be recorded, these cameras must be connected to a digital video recorder or DVR.

There are two types of DVRs: PC-based DVR capture cards and standalone DVRs. Both use a hard disk for storing video. The main difference between the two is that DVR capture cards require a PC to function while standalone DVRs can work on their own.

CCTV Cables

Two cables are mainly used in CCTV installation: one cable for carrying video signals from the camera to the DVR and one cable for carrying power from the camera adaptor or CCTV power supply connected to the camera. Cables used for CCTV must be terminated with connectors that can connect with the connectors on the camera and those on the DVR.

Any CCTV camera installation requires good wiring. Using good quality cable prevents video degradation and significant voltage drops over long cable runs. For video transmission, it is recommended to use either RG59 or RG6 cables because both are fully shielded and can prevent video loss for lengths up to 400 ft. For power transmission, quality copper wires must be used. Alternatively, siamese CCTV cables may be used. Professional installers prefer siamese cables because these have both video and power cables fused into one.

CCTV Packages

Users who require a "plug-and-play" surveillance solution may opt to purchase a complete CCTV package. These already include all components needed for a CCTV surveillance system: video and power cables, connectors, cameras and DVRs.