Closed circuit television or CCTV is found almost everywhere, from shops and restaurants to public spaces and car parks. As CCTV becomes more compact and affordable, homeowners are also embracing it a way to safeguard their most valuable investment. CCTV is one of the most effective and comprehensive security solutions, providing you with real-time monitoring and video coverage of your home. These security systems protect you and your property by providing a deterrent against vandalism and theft. Images captured by CCTV cameras can also be used to provide evidence in court.

Types of CCTV Security Solutions

Wired security systems are the most affordable option when installing CCTV in your home. They are also the most common type of CCTV system. Wired systems plug into electrical outlets. Wires including extensions and connectors are used to fit the system onto interior and exterior areas of your home. This is one of the downsides of this system. Installation costs can also be higher if a lot of wiring is required.

An alternative to wired systems is a wireless CCTV system. With this type of system, video images are sent to your computer or a mobile device using analogue or digital signals. Wireless CCTV systems allow you to monitor your property, even when you are not at home. Since wires do not need to be installer, there is less disruption to your home and the installation is easier.

Choosing the Best System

CCTV systems offer different levels of functionality based on the quality and type of its components, including the system's cameras. More advanced systems are available with added features such as remote access, night vision and motion detection. The type of CCTV system you choose will depend on the level of security you want, your budget, and your own personal preferences.

When choosing indoor cameras for your CCTV system, you have to decide on the resolution of the image. Image quality is improved with higher resolution, offering you the best detail. Higher resolution cameras also tend to cost more. Generally, higher resolution images are most effective when presented as evidence in court. High resolution cameras require more storage space than low resolution cameras. Most CCTV systems include storage devices such as a hard drive connected to a computer or a digital video recorder (DVR). Cameras are also available with night vision. These cameras are able to switch to monochrome (black and white) mode when it is dark. Monochrome cameras are most effective in low light. Some cameras also have motion detection sensors, allowing them to turn towards movement that has been detected. Motion detection can also be used to save storage space by only having the camera record images when motion is sensed.

If you want to avoid too many wires running throughout your home, then a wireless system might be better than a wired option for indoor cameras. Wireless CCTV cameras inside the home should always operate with encrypted signals. To have remote access to images even when you are away from home, you should request a wired or wireless system that uses an IP system. IP CCTV systems use your home network or internet connection to send images remotely. For outdoor CCTV cameras, make sure that the devices are weatherproof. You should also position outdoor cameras in ways that avoid tampering. At the same time, cameras should be placed in locations that make it accessible for cleaning and other maintenance work. Vandal-proof CCTV cameras are also available, although they are generally more expensive.

Finding a CCTV Installer

When looking for a CCTV installer or security company, you must ensure that the provider is reputable and qualified. Reputable security contractors are recognised by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB), the two main regulatory bodies for the UK's security industry. Generally, police services will not respond to security systems installed by companies unless they are registered with one of these organisations. When choosing a contractor, get at least three quotes from CCTV installers. Also, look for companies that provide 24-hour service and emergency call outs. You can also determine the level of service and quality of a contractor by asking friends and family for recommendations as well as looking at online reviews. You can also ask your insurance company if they have a list of approved or recommended CCTV installers and security companies.