Buying a CCTV Camera Kit
Once you have chosen your camera and recording technology, it’s time to select a monitor and supporting equipment. These will depend on what you plan to use the system for.
This budget-friendly wireless option from Lorex includes two cameras, a hub with 3TB of storage and 2K resolution footage, sensor spotlights and smart features like face, person, animal and car detection. You can also watch live or playback video on your smartphone and access footage hands-free with Hey Google and Amazon Alexa.
Features
When buying a security camera kit, it’s important to find one with high-definition cameras. A kit should also include a hub with a built-in Wi-Fi router and a video recorder. A network video recorder converts analog CCTV signals into digital and can be used to monitor a property or home remotely.
You should also look for a security camera with a wide field of view, which means fewer cameras are needed to cover a large area. Some cameras feature two-way audio, allowing you to speak with people who approach your door or window. Some come with a siren that can scare away intruders. Others are designed to replace existing floodlights and can shine a light on potential suspects.
A security camera system that integrates with smart home systems can add extra features and security to your property. For example, some cameras work with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to allow you to control them with voice commands. Other cameras are equipped with sensors that detect smoke or carbon monoxide and alert you to them.
If you’re concerned about privacy, choose a security camera that uses encrypted cctv camera kit footage and has no history of breaches. Additionally, it’s a good idea to read reviews and customer feedback before making a purchase. If you’re concerned about price, consider getting a wireless camera that requires no wires or a battery-powered camera that can be recharged as needed.
Cost
The cost of a cctv camera kit is determined by a few factors, including the type and number of cameras, the camera resolution, whether the cameras are wireless or wired, and the monitoring costs. The camera resolution is important because it determines how well the camera can capture video and what the maximum distance between the camera and a person or object is. The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the image. Many cameras come with a 720p option that is affordable, but you can also upgrade to a 1080p or 4k model for more features and a better view.
The camera installation cost is another factor to consider. Wired cameras require installing coax cables or ethernet Cat 5 cables, which can add $150 to $500 to the overall system cost. Wireless systems eliminate this cost, but they can be affected by Wi-Fi interference and may need range extenders or longer cables to ensure proper operation.
Some cctv camera kits offer cloud storage, which allows you to save footage remotely. This is typically offered on a subscription basis, with monthly plans starting at $10 to $15 per month. When choosing a provider, be sure to check their security credentials and history of breaches. Additionally, look for cameras that encrypt data using AES-256 bit, as this is an industry standard and will prevent hackers from accessing your footage.
Installation
A cctv camera kit is an easy way to protect your home or business from crime. It takes very little time to install the system and can even be done by a non-expert. The installation process involves connecting the cameras and monitors to a DVR or NVR. The DVR is where the video from the cameras gets processed for storage and viewing. Once the devices are connected, you can view the footage from a mobile app.
The first step is determining where to position the cameras in your property. Do a survey and decide on the best locations to get the maximum coverage. For example, if you’re protecting a residential property, consider covering the front and back door, all windows, sheds and garages. In a commercial setting, you may want to cover stairways and lift areas, for health and safety reasons.
Wired CCTV cameras need to be connected to a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) or NVR (Network Video Recorder). Most cables are pre-terminated and have a plug on each end. The black cable plugs into the DVR’s video input port, while the white RCA connectors go to a video output port on your monitor.
You can also buy a power supply box that allows you to power multiple cameras from one outlet. Make sure you choose a box with enough ports to support the number of cameras you’re installing. The box should also have a locking key, so it can’t be tampered with.
Monitoring
The surveillance system is a powerful tool for security professionals. It can be used to monitor large areas of property and record images for evidence. This information can be accessed from anywhere in the world using a computer or mobile device. It is also useful for retail businesses that can identify buying trends and improve marketing strategies.
A CCTV camera kit contains a digital video recorder (DVR) and one or more cameras. The DVR is connected to a monitor so that you can view the footage on your home or business computer. It is also possible to monitor cctv camera kit your premises from a remote location by using a cloud-based server or an IP network.
An IP CCTV camera has a higher resolution than an analog camera. It can also capture images in both black and white and has a much greater range of zoom capabilities. It can also operate in dimly lit environments without the need for an infrared illuminator.
It is important to choose the right camera for your needs. For example, if you want to monitor a parking lot, consider a high-resolution camera with a wide angle lens. This camera can be installed in a small space and is suitable for monitoring both indoor and outdoor areas. For more precise control over a specific area, consider a PTZ or pan/tilt/zoom camera. These cameras can be positioned to view different angles and can be controlled remotely.
