What Is CCTV?

CCTV is an acronym that stands for Closed Circuit Television. It is defined as the use of one or more cameras used for surveillance
purposes. It was initially developed to increase bank security and has since spread to every corner of the security industry. Home
security systems, businesses, corporations, organizations, and schools are several examples of locations that implement CCTV Security
Systems.

When CCTV cameras first appeared in the public sphere, they were crude, low-definition cameras that only recorded in black and
white. They were completely simple and lacked even the ability to pan or zoom. CCTV cameras today are smaller, sleeker, and far
more technologically advanced than the cameras of yesterday.

They produce high quality, exceptionally sharp color images, and have motion sensors that track movement across an area. They can
pick a person out of a crowd and lock on them, tracing their movements; they can run at night because of infrared technology. The
possibilities are endless for CCTV, especially as the technology continues to develop.

Closed-circuit cameras are often used to discourage and deter crime. While they don’t necessarily eliminate crime, closed-circuit
cameras do make it possible to identify events and suspects, making is easier to detect and prosecute those involved in a crime.

Another function that closed-circuit cameras serve is that of traffic monitors. Speed cameras are installed in various locations, taking a
picture of your license plate and with the help of radar technology, recording your speed. In many cities in the US, you may receive a
speeding ticket with a picture of your car and its clocked speed, or a picture of the exact moment you ran a red light.

They come in all shapes and sizes and can be installed anywhere, from your car and your handbag to police surveillance vans and
taxis. They are ideal for purposes of security as they have the ability to recall events in real time at an accurate date and provide
information that may lead to the detection and persecution of criminal activities.

Emerging technologies will make faster, quicker cameras that will be able to pick a face out of the crowd on command. They could be
programmed to identify ‘criminal’ behavior by body movement that might signify a troublemaker, and zoom up on your face in an
instant.

Banks, hospitals, institutions that deal in large sums of money, government buildings, and schools are several areas of the public
sector where closed-circuit television cameras work well. The CCTV System is moving towards a completely computerized monitoring
system that will eventually replace the current need for a CCTV operator and become a fully automated system.

CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) is a visual surveillance technology designed for monitoring a variety of environments and activities.
CCTV systems typically involve a fixed (or "dedicated") communications link between cameras and monitors. In the past decade, the
use of CCTV has grown to unprecedented levels. Most Indian towns and cities are moving to CCTV surveillance of public areas,
housing estates, car parks and public facilities. Growth in the market is estimated at fifteen to twenty per cent annually. Many Central
Business Districts in India are now covered by surveillance camera systems involving a linked system of cameras with full pan, tilt,
zoom and infrared capacity. Their use on private property is also becoming popular. Increasingly, police and local councils are placing
camera systems into housing estates and red light districts. Residents Associations are independently organizing their own surveillance
initiatives. Tens of thousands of cameras operate in public places,; in phone booths, vending machines, buses, trains, taxis, alongside
motorways and inside Automatic Teller (Cash) Machines. The video surveillance boom is likely to extend even inside the home. Andrew
May, Assistant Chief Constable of South Wales, has urged victims of domestic violence to conceal video cameras in their homes to
collect evidence. The technology is already being used in hospitals to support covert surveillance of parents suspected of abusing their
children. The limits of CCTV are constantly extended. Originally installed to deter burglary, assault and car theft, in practice most
camera systems have been used to combat anti-social behavior, including many such minor offenses as littering, urinating in public,
traffic violations, obstruction, drunkenness, and evading meters in town parking lots. They have also been widely used to intervene in
other undesirable behavior such as underage smoking and a variety of public order transgressions. Other innovative uses are
constantly being discovered. When combined with observation of body language, the cameras are particularly effective in detecting
people using marijuana and other substances. These systems are used increasingly to police public morals and public order. According
to a glossy, "CCTV : Looking out for you", the technology can be a solution for such problems as vandalism, drug use, drunkenness,
racial harassment, sexual harassment, loitering and disorderly behavior. CCTV is very quickly becoming an integral part of crime
control policy, social control theory and Community consciousness. It is promoted by police and politicians as primary solution for
urban dysfunction. It is no exaggeration to conclude that the technology has had more of an impact on the evolution of law
enforcement policy than just about any technology initiative in the past two decades. CCTV is a seductive technology. In a public policy
domain which is notoriously rubbery, CCTV has a solid, "Sexy" and powerful image. It has become an icon for security and - for
politicians - its promotion is guaranteed to create a feel-good response. When people are frightened of crime and criminals, critics of
CCTV are often portrayed as enemies of the public interest.
Glowing reports of the effectiveness of CCTV are announced regularly. Not only are people delighted because they are no longer
afraid to go out shopping, say local police, but even criminals welcome the chance to prove their innocence by calling on evidence
from the cameras. People say they feel safer. Indeed they should. Assaults and other violent crimes appear also to have been
decimated in the center of town. The government believes this is because CCTV deters opportunistic crime, where people take
advantage of a situation on the spur of the moment. "Todays opportunist is tomorrows professional criminal. If we decrease the
number of opportunities for easy crime, we can reduce the number of people becoming professional criminals". Delhi Police have crack
down many cases and solve them using the CCTV footage. In Bangalore the traffic police department is using CCTV for controlling the
traffic The crime statistics rarely, if ever, reflect the hypothesis that CCTV merely displaces criminal activity to areas outside the range
of the cameras. One of the features of current surveillance practice is that the cameras are often installed in high-rent commercial
areas. Crime may be merely pushed from high value commercial areas into low rent residential areas. Councils often find that it is
impossible to resist demands for such systems. There is an additional element of displacement that should be of particularly concern to
all communities. Since the growth of CCTV as the primary means of crime prevention, more traditional, community based measures
have been discarded. The cameras are also creating a vastly increased rate of conviction after crimes are detected. Virtually everyone
caught committing an offense on camera pleads guilty nowadays. Once people know they have been videotaped, they admit the
offense immediately. Police are delighted at the time and money they are saving from long and expensive trials. Some legal experts
are a little more wary of the implications of these results, arguing that - like DNA evidence - juries can be seduced and defendants
intimidated in equal proportions by evidence that might not normally stand up to scrutiny. Indeed some districts are now reporting that
people are surrendering after the mere mention in newspaper reports that their alleged activities had been captured on CCTV.

CCTV Systems (Closed Circuit Television)

If you are looking for a video surveillance system, then look no further. A number of online mega stores carry all your video
surveillance and security camera equipment needs.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) is not the panacea to all security and safety problems that many people believe it to be. CCTV should
be only a part of an integrated approach that considers all aspects of possible security problems.

Modern CCTV video security camera systems allow you to view recorded images while continuing to record on all security cameras.
They also offer advanced search capabilities and easy playback functionality.

CCTV video surveillance systems include color security cameras, day and night security cameras, infrared security cameras, dome
security cameras, black-and-white security cameras, bullet security cameras, hidden cameras, pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras, zoom
security cameras, dummy cameras, IP digital security cameras, and board mini security cameras.

Current technology using IP cameras will even allow you to remotely monitor your surveillance installation across town or across the
globe on the internet. Imagine the comfort you would feel leaving town for a week or more on vacation or business knowing you have
the ability to literally keep an eye on things at home from any internet connected computer.

The latest CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) news involves technology associated with CCTV systems, CCTV security, mono or color
cameras, bullet or mini cameras, full pan/tilt/zoom cameras, remote monitoring, Digital Video Recorder (DVR), dome, monitor, video
security, network security, lenses, controllers, control rooms. New CCTV technology also includes wireless CCTV, Internet-accessible/IP
CCTV, low-light and night-vision cameras, computer-assisted operation, and motion-detection facilities.

When shopping for CCTV systems be sure you know all the options. Your local retailer, and many online stores have consultants
standing by to help you understand the technologies and tactics for successful protecting your property.

And remember, it’s not always the “crooks” who need watching. As competition for good employees gets tougher you can’t be too
careful who’s minding the store or the kids.

A CCTV project that doesn’t show the viewing areas of each camera and their functions in different regions should not be considered a
professional one. Of course, the real sequence of actions may differ in your installation, but in general, one can see that the process of
designing a CCTV system is becoming clearer and more efficient for both the designer and the customer. The most important part of a
CCTV system is the result: an effective CCTV system that fulfills its functions in full measure. Who knows how many crimes may be
uncovered or prevented entirely with the help of CCTV systems. Now its up to you to determine the best video surveillance system for
you.
Retail Intelligence - Improving Sales Through CCTV Systems

If you think security is the primary reason stores put up CCTV systems, think again. They are not there to watch shoplifters; they are
there to count people.
Security Versus Sales
The British bed store, Dreams, had CCTV systems installed for two reasons: the first, marketing; the second, security.
Dreams’ use video surveillance shows a strong trend surfacing in the market in recent years. Stores put up CCTV systems not so much
to prevent losses, but to increase sales. This is a logical move. While shoplifters and negligent employees cause stores to lose money,
these losses are minimal compared to loss of potential earnings.
Monitoring Foot Traffic
Foot traffic is important to business owners and managers, and this is where CCTV systems come in. Cameras map store traffic. They
show patterns of movement from department to department, from floor to floor. They show, for example, where customers are most
likely to pass to get to Department X after exiting Department Z.
In malls, areas with the heaviest foot traffic are the costliest to rent. In stores, the same areas are where latest or the most steeply-
priced products are displayed. Dreams knew this, and thus had CCTV systems mounted.
Why Count People?
Stores count visitors to monitor sales. A decline in foot traffic could only mean one thing: reduced sales. After all, with fewer people
entering stores, fewer purchases would be made. CCTV systems, used together with need-specific software, are able to alert owners
and managers to decreases in visitor density. These people could, in turn, take corrective action.
Uses of CCTV Systems in Marketing
1. Pinpointing desirable location
Cameras can show which areas draw the most visits from people. Decision-makers can use this data to evaluate the impact of
decoration themes or adjust rent in relation to traffic value.
2. Revealing the hold factor
The “hold” factor is the ability of any merchandise or store area to make customers stay. CCTV systems can provide answers to
questions like:
a) How long do customers stay inside one section of the store?
b) Which area or item do they take the most time to look at?
3. Optimizing promotional spending
CCTV systems help store owners and managers identify areas where advertisements would have the most impact. Marketing teams
can then use this information to plan store layout and promotional strategies.
4. Evaluating stock levels
CCTV systems can, at a glance, reveal empty shelves or fast-thinning supplies. This is particularly useful in stores so huge it will take
weeks to conduct a complete inventory of items sold and unsold.
5. Improving customer service
Data captured by CCTV systems tell key personnel how many customers flock to the store during certain times of the day. This data is
very useful in designating how many employees to assign and where. Frequently, long lines at cash registers frustrate shoppers and
cause them to do their buying elsewhere. Identifying prime selling hours and areas will help stores keep their valued clients.
Each shopper that walks through the door represents potential profit. With the right CCTV systems and software, store owners and
managers can convert more and more profit potential into actual sale. What businessman could say no to that?

Cctv and the Surveillance Society

These days, you can hardly open a newspaper or switch on the telly, without being bombarded with stories about video surveillance,
or digital CCTV, or indeed many less than glowing references to Big Brother; so what exactly is the state of surveillance in Britain
today?
Well generally speaking, it’s either regarded as a sure fire vote winner and the greatest thing in crime fighting since the invention of
the tin whistle, or one milli-metric step away from a bottomless Orwellian abyss.

The truth of course tends to lie somewhere in the middle, but then the problem of quantifying the merits or otherwise in using this
technology, are somewhat diluted by a fundamental misunderstanding about exactly what the use of Closed Circuit Television means
to our modern society.

Although most people consider the now wide scale adoption of CCTV as a relatively new phenomenon and something to be
enthusiastically embraced, the UK is actually charging headlong into a “third age” of video surveillance, with little if any informed
discussion on the benefits and outcomes we could perhaps expect over the next five to ten years.

It was not so long ago that the Information Commissioner Richard Thomas, was warning of Britain “sleepwalking” into a surveillance
state, and yet a report commissioned by his own office and published in September 2006, actually leads with the statement “We live in
a surveillance society. It is pointless to talk about surveillance society in the future tense.”

To industry insiders, this apparent revelation was no more a surprise than the realisation that successive academic reports into the
effectiveness of CCTV in tackling crime, have only served to highlight a hidden technical conundrum, which impacts hugely on the way
in which cameras are frequently failing to ful fill their potential, or live up to expectations, depending on your particular point of view.

Time and again, reviews are published which throw in to question whether CCTV actually works, but almost without exception, there is
a significant flaw in the presentation of the data. When reporting on technical efficiency, it is naively assumed that the systems have
been correctly profiled, designed, installed and operated, to achieve the highest levels of efficacy.

In practice, little could be further from the truth.

Generally speaking, there is no wider public realisation that Closed Circuit Television, CCTV, video surveillance or whatever else you
want to call it, is actually a discipline that relies on the expert application of a huge range of tools and techniques, in order to address
the unique set of demands and circumstances found in any given location.

Whilst Joe Public may see the working end of a system as simply a remote control camera stuck on a pole in their local high street,
possibly a couple of miles away from the ‘state of the art’ control room, the inescapable fact is that much of our existing CCTV is
actually working at a very low level of technical efficiency, and indeed in many situations, is little more than a labour intensive exercise
in lottery surveillance.

Now if that sounds a rather harsh indictment of an industry that is blessed with an abundance of positive perception, then I make no
apology for saying that an open and informed debate, on both the way that video surveillance is currently being embraced and the
shape of things to come, is now well overdue, if not already too late.

Much has been remarked just recently on the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, and how vehicles can be
tracked through a network of cameras, much as is presently done with the London Congestion Charge scheme.

At present, as a law enforcement tool it is undoubtedly extremely useful indeed, but then it isn’t 100% accurate, and also not without
its very own achilles heel.

The recently leaked Home Office memo which highlights the intention of possibly using all available traffic monitoring cameras to
provide “real time” tracking of vehicles, really shouldn’t provide any great surprises, given previously well publicised announcements on
future operational intentions.

That said, this particular tool is only a very small part of a rapidly developing ‘Video Analytics’ armoury, where numerous commercial
and scientific research groups around the world, are rushing to develop workable computer based smart systems, that can for example
provide dependable facial recognition (at best, it’s generally only around 30 - 50% efficient at present), object and target tracking and
behavioural analysis, particularly for anti terrorism or Homeland Security use, and seriously clever technology that can help
investigators search through vast amounts of recorded data looking for a specific object or individual.

This latter development holds enormous potential for improving existing control room operations by reducing the inevitable data
overload, particularly where a single operator may already be responsible for monitoring dozens or more remote control cameras.

Mind you, whilst existing technology already provides for the possibility of automatically tracking a single moving target, in the not too
distant future using very high resolution Mega Pixel surveillance cameras, computers will be able to track multiple targets on screen,
and so effectively follow a number of individuals movements within a given area, and all without the involvement of any human
operator.

It’s interesting that whilst the technology continues to develop at a breathtaking pace, any attempt to regulate or oversee the way in
which it is applied, is still fixed firmly somewhere back in the dark ages. Civil libertarians have for many years cautioned over the
unfettered adoption of CCTV, and its potential for abuse and misuse. In fact, the perception that its negative effects in terms of privacy
concerns for the law abiding, has not been mitigated by any significant impact on the behaviour of the law defying, has in itself
become something of a cause celebres amongst those in the know.

Whilst it’s reasonable to say that historically technical indiscretions by system operators are by no means commonplace, it is becoming
an increasingly difficult environment to foresee the appropriate and responsible use of this undoubtedly powerful technology, unless
effective steps are taken to provide some practical form of regulation, perhaps through the establishment of an independent Public
Surveillance Inspectorate.

Whilst the tired old mantra of ‘if you’ve done nothing wrong, you have nothing to worry about’ may provide a cloak of comfort to those
most happy to unreservedly embrace whatever is being offered, the fact remains that even using the most technically impressive
systems available, there is a potential for mistaken identity, and this can have dire consequences for any innocent but accused
individual.

It’s interesting to note that whilst the figure of 4.2 million CCTV cameras in the UK has been bandy’d about for quite a few years now,
it is probably fair to say that whatever the true number was then, it has most certainly significantly increased in recent times.

With the distinct possibility that the vast majority of the UKs video surveillance cameras are now resting somewhere between
invariably inefficient operation, and an embarrassing waste of investment, it is rather ironic that around the world we are held up to be
the masters at applying this technology, with untold countries gleefully queueing up to follow our less than exemplary example.

Sad to say, but early indications are that they are more than willing to make exactly the same mistakes as us, in a frantic yet
understandable desire to play catch up. Video surveillance is already an extremely powerful tool, and its potential for development
over the next few years would be like comparing a pocket camcorder to a Box Brownie.

We can either have an informed and long overdue debate about the future for our surveillance state, or accept that inevitably the
concept of an individual being considered innocent until proven guilty, will undoubtedly be technologically replaced with potentially
guilty …. untill the computer says no!

DVR Software: Easy Surveillance For Non-Pros

Imagine yourself reviewing yesterday's activities and recording the present at the same time. This is what happens when you're using
DVR software for your video surveillance. Read on to find out what's in store for you when you use the software.

Is It Time to Update Your Security System?

Okay, you have a surveillance camera, but then how do you get the most out of it? You don't simply have it screwed to the ceiling or
at the door. You will need the equipment to make your business/home watch the best there is in the neighborhood, surveillance wise.
If you are deciding to upgrade your existing video recording of images captured by your surveillance cameras, check out the hottest
thing to hit town - DVR software.

A DVR software will absolutely change the way you look at video surveillance and recording. It's time to make a big switch if you have
frequently:

* Experienced irritation because you have to stop your surveillance recording just so you could review yesterday's footage.

* Worried about your loved ones at home or the cash register at the bar because you cannot be there to keep an eye on everything.

* Fumed and raged because you cannot store your files of footages just in case you will need them.

How Does the Software Work?

Contrary to your anticipation that the DVR software would be too complex to handle, it is easy to use. With the recording software,
you can monitor live images from one to a network of 16 security cameras in one computer screen in just a few seconds.
This convenience saves you the time, because you can playback more than one recording since the recordings are stored in the hard
disc of your computer. You also have the option of selecting motion detection for the recording - saves you hard disc space. To
prevent unauthorized access to your system, you can have it username and password-protected.

The software, used with IP cameras enables you to upload or export live audio and video feed to the other computers in the security
system. Other features include:

* Email notifications via the Internet or cell phones.

* A single software can work for a system.
* Allows control of your camera.
* Records in standard PC format.
* Intelligent interface.
* Automated tasks.
* All images are time-date stamped.
* Use zoom in and zoom out camera function.
What It All Adds Up To

A DVR software allows a stealth mode function, which won't alert your staff that they are being watched while at work. You can rest
easy knowing everybody is performing up to par and not lounging around when you're away. Want to pan or tilt the camera even if
you're miles away? You can do just that, as long as you have the software in your PC. Do you want a print of a selected image? That
can be done too real fast. What makes the software cost-effective is its compatibility with a majority of security camera brands. You do
not have to buy a new security camera and hardware just because you are installing the software.

The easy installation of the DVR software can be done in a few minutes. You don't have to spend for computer engineers to set up the
software. With all the advantages you get, surveillance becomes easy.

consumer Power And CCTV And DVR Surveillance Systems

There's much buzz over DVR surveillance systems. With so much information flooding the Internet, it becomes difficult to choose one
that's just right for your small scale or corporate needs. But knowing what's best for you before you get a system saves you all the
trouble, time, and money.

Sorting the CCTV and DVR Surveillance Systems

Non-techie consumers have a difficult time getting the gist of the technical information on home or office surveillance systems. What
they want is a system that works best. They want to know what's going on behind their backs, see who has been dipping fingers into
the till, and nab the nanny after proof of her roughshod handling of the toddler.

Consumers also want clear pictures on the monitors, a video playback functionality, access to the home surveillance systems via the
Internet, and real-time recording of everything happening in the home or office. While some want to catch the mouse while the cat is
away, others need the security of knowing family and workers are safe some intruders. Whether it's CCTV or DVR surveillance
systems, knowledge about these systems is consumer power.

Between the CCTV and DVR surveillance systems, the DVR system is getting all the popular attention for its affordability and flexibility.
This system can use the home PC as the nucleus for the system, which knocks off some installation expense. With the CCTV system,
the cameras are hooked to a central monitoring system, which comes with the package.

What's Best for Your Home?

For a small apartment or a mansion, there will be different surveillance solutions for different needs. A small apartment owner would
want to know what is going on in the nursery or the bedroom and who is at the door, while the lord of the manor would like to have
the vast grounds and all rooms watched.

For a small home or a mansion, the need is for clear images, real time monitoring and recording and safe storage of files. Beyond
these parameters, consumers get lost when sorting the information. If you're looking researching surveillance systems tell the vendor
what you need, such as:

* You don't want playbacks with too much interruption and blurry images. Concerning this, you're referring to the speed of the frames
per second or the rate the capture video can be viewed and you want image images from the different cameras mounted in the
different parts of the house or business establishment.
* You don't need a big storage; you just want something that can store a day's recording because you've heard that small storage
space affect the quality of the images. The DVR surveillance systems offer smaller storage space compared to the analog (mechanical)
systems.

* You need a small but practical system for your home, something easy to install and upgrade without costing you too much. The
system should be able to provide clear images. This is the entire purpose of the system, getting superior images on the monitor.

* You need different cameras for indoor and outdoor surveillance and you want a working combination of flexibility and functionality
plus affordability. Be ready with the estimated distances of the cameras to the monitoring station as these will be counted in the cost
estimates.

* Ask for the available starter packages for surveillance systems if you are using your PC.

Knowing what to ask from the vendor gives you the edge when you are shopping for CCTV or DVR surveillance systems.

Some Keywords Meaning :

Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

An electronic circuit used whereby the gain of a signal is automatically adjusted as a function of its input or other specified
parameter. This control is applied to the gain of the video amplifier stage/s following the imaging device. It is usually related to
ALC. If the iris is fully open and video output is low, the gain of the amplifier stage is increased. So is the noise generated by the
stage itself and preceding devices which is then visible as grain or snow on the screen. As 'useable sensitivity' indicates the
minimum illumination at which a 'picture' can be discerned amongst this noise, it is useful to know the illumination level at which
AGC switches on or off and how much noise (S/N ratio) you have.

Aperture

The lens opening that controls the amount of light reaching the pickup device (imager)

Auto White Balance

Feature on color cameras whereby the camera constantly monitors the light and adjusts its color to maintain white areas.

ALC (Automatic Level Control) Automatic light control/auto-iris :

On AL lenses, aka peak/average control. Adjusting this control allows the auto iris circuitry to either take bright spots. A servo
control system applied to the iris of a camera/lens system to ensure a constant output level from the camera under varying light
conditions by opening/closing the iris as required. This is usually contained in the lens body for power and video output sample
from the camera. Other systems exist where the servo electronics are contained in the camera and a 4 wire connection is made to
the lens.

Activity Detection

A feature of the generation 3 multiplexer range that uses video motion detection techniques to improve camera update

AGV

Automatic Gain Control. A circuit for automatically controlling amplifier gain in order to maintain a constant output voltage with a
varying input voltage within a predetermined range of input-to-output variation.

Amplitude

Normally refers to the magnitude of a signal voltage ie. the video signal is produced and distributed at an amplitude of one volt peak
to peak (p-p). Can also refer to the peak of a voltage above or below the base line

Analog

A signal in which any level is represented by a directly proportional voltage; not digital.
Aspherical Lens

A lens designed with a non spherical shape so that it refracts the light passing through it either lower the lens aperture so that it
passes more light or decreases barrel distortion on wide angle lenses.

Auto-Terminating

Feature whereby equipment automatically selects the correct termination depending on whether the video output is connected to

Automatic Iris Lens

A lens in which the aperture automatically opens or closes to maintain proper light levels on the cameras imager

Alarming

The ability of CCTV equipment to respond to an input signal, normally a simple switch closure. The response varies

Angle of View

The maximum scene angle that can be seen through a lens.

Automatic Frequency Control (AFC)

An electronic circuit used whereby the frequencies of an oscillator is automatically maintained within specific units,

Attenuation

A decrease or loss in a signal. Reduction of signal magnitude (loss) normally measured in decibels

Back Focus

The mechanical aligning of the imaging device with the focal point of the lens. Most important on a zoom lens to ensure the image
stays in focus throughout the zoom range.

Bandwidth

The frequency range of a signal. The span that the information-bearing signal occupies or requires or the difference between the
lowest and highest frequency of a band.

BNC

Bayonet Neill-Concelman connector, the BNC connector is one of several Audio Video connector for CCTV Camera

Back Lighting Compensation (BLC)

A feature of modern CCD camera which electronically compensates for high background lighting to give detail which would normally
be silhouetted.

Base-Band Video

Unmodulated video signal suitable for display on a monitor, but not a domestic TV

Bridging

A term indicating that a high impedance video line is paralleled, usually through a switch, to a source of video. A separate overall
video output.

Balanced Signal

Method of transmitting video, usual over twisted pair cable, that consists of two equal but opposite signals being sent down two
semiconductors.
Black Level

The level of the video signal that corresponds to the maximum limits of the black areas of the picture

C Mount / CS Mount

The two industry standards for mounting a lens on a camera. The C-Mount lens has a 17.5 mm flange back distance. The CS-
Mount lens has a 12.5 mm flange back distance.

CCD (Charged Coupled Device)

This is a solid state semi-conductor imaging device often referred to as an integrated circuit, chip or imager. Solid state cameras
are sometimes referred to as CCD cameras. Image sensor which is a large scale integrated circuit containing hundreds of
thousands of photo-sites (pixels) which convert light energy to electronic signals

Composite Video

The complete video signal consisting of the video information, the sync pulse and the threshold reference

Camera

A device that translates light into a video image and transmits that image to a monitor for viewing. It contains the image sensor
and other electronic circuitry to create a video signal.

CCTV

The common abbreviation for Closed Circuit Television. A private or closed television system

Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)

The picture tube in a monitor that can reproduce the picture image seen by the camera.

Coaxial Cable

A type of shielded cable of carrying a wide range of frequencies (video and radio) with very low signal loss.

DC Type Lens

An auto-iris lens with internal circuit which receives voltage and a video signal from the camera to adjust the lens.

Digital Recording

Recording images on digital mediums such as optical or hard drives instead of analog tapes.

Depth of Field

The area in focus in front of and behind the subject.

Distribution Amplifier

A device that accepts a video signal and sends it out over a number of independent outputs.

Digital

A signal that levels are represented by binary numbers. These can be kept in a store.

Duplex Multiplexor

A multiplexor with two frame stores allowing it to show multi-screen pictures while performing time multiplex recordings.

EI (Electronic Iris) Shutter

The ability of the camera to compensate for moderate light changes in indoor applications without the use of an auto iris lens.

External Sync

The ability of CCTV equipment to accept one or more of the standard sync formats so as to align itself to the rest of the system

F-Stop

The speed of a lens. The smaller the f-number, the greater amount of light passing through the lens.

Focal Length

The distance (in millimeters) from the lens to the surface of the imager. The shorted the distance, the wider the view, the longer
the distance, the narrower the view.

Frame

A complete picture. 2 fields of video information

Fiber Optic

The process of transmitting light through a long, flexible fiber such as glass or plastic, for the purpose of transmitting video, audio,
or data over long distances.

Focus

The focal point. An adjustment to the lens optics to improve the images clarity.

Field of View

The maximum viewed image a lens "sees". The horizontal or vertical scene size at a given distance from the camera.

Format

The size of the cameras imager. Current standards are 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 inches.

Ghost

A shadowy or weak image in the received picture, offset to either the right or to the left of the primary image

Ground

An electrical connection point that is common to either a metal chassis, a terminal, or a ground bus.

Ground Loop

Affects video pictures in the form of a black shadow bar across the screen or as tearing in the top corner of the picture. Caused by
different earth potentials in the system.

Hardwired

Method of controlling camera points using multi-core cables.

Hertz (Hz)

Cycles per second

Horizontal Resolution

The maximum number of individual picture elements that can be distinguished in a single scanning line.

Image Device (Imager)

The detector in the camera, either a tube or CCD solid state device.

Insertion Loss

The signal strength loss that occurs when a piece of equipment is inserted into a line.

Internal Sync (Crystal Controlled)

A camera that generates its sync pulses without reference to any other sources. Normally using a crystal controlled oscillator.

IR (Infrared)

A range of frequencies lower than visible red light used for covert surveillance or as a low cost wireless video link.

Iris

The adjustable opening through which light can pass and is regulated.

Lens

A transparent optical component that converges light rays to forma two dimensional image of that object.

Level Control

Main iris control. Used to set the auto-iris circuit to a video level desired by the user. After set-up, the circuit will adjust the iris to
maintain this video level in changing lighting conditions. Turning this control towards high will open the iris, towards low will close
the iris.

Line Amplifier (Video Line Corrector)

A device to make good the loss of a signal strength and quality due to long cable runs.

Looping

A term indicating that a high impedance device has been permanently connected in a parallel to a video source. Individual balanced
video outputs for each video input.

Lux

A unit of measurement for the intensity of light. One foot-candle (FC) = 10 Lux.

Manual Iris Lens

A lens with a manual adjustment for the iris opening in a fixed position. Generally used for fixed lighting applications

Mechanical focus (Back Focus, Racking)

lenses that ensure the image stays in focus throughout the zoom range.

Monitor

A device that converts electronic signals into the video image that was generate by a camera and lens. The picture end of a CCTV
system.

Multiplex (Time Multiplex)

Using one carrier to send more than one signal. In video Multiplexors this achieved by sending a different camera output in each
successive field or frame of a video signal.

Noise

Undesired signal(s) that corrupts the original video signal and may reduce image quality.
NTSC (National Television Standards Committee, see EIA)

Color TV system used in the United States

PAL (Phase Alternate Line, see CCIR)

Color TV system used in the United Kingdom,India, West Asia

Pan

Side-to-side movement of a camera (horizontal axis).

Pinhole Lens

Lens used for applications where the camera must be hidden. A 1/32 or 1/16 inch lens mounted on a camera that is capable of
viewing an entire room.

PIP

Picture in Picture

Pixel

The smallest cell or area in a picture. The greater number of pixels, the higher the resolution of the scene.

PTSN (Public switched Telephone Network)

Standard phone lines used to transmit fast scan pictures via modems

Quad

A device that compresses up to 4 video signals and simultaneously displays them on a monitor.

Reflected Light

The scene brightness or the light being reflected from a scene

Resolution

A measure of the ability of a camera or a television system to reproduce details

RF (Radio Frequency)

Signals with a repetition rate above audible hearing, but lowed than frequencies associated with heat and light.

RS232

A commonly used computer serial interface

S/N (Signal to Noise Ratio)

Measure of the noise levels of a video signal. The higher the number, the better.

Saturation (Color)

The measure of the vividness of color. The amplitude of chrominance

Scanner

A panning only unit.

Scanning
The rapid movement of an electronic beam in a pickup device of a camera or in the CRT of a television receiver. When referring to
a video surveillance field, it is the horizontal panning camera motion.

Sensitivity

A camera's ability to reproduce a given scene with a given light level. Usually expressed in Lux or foot-candles.

Sequential Switchers

A video device that alternates the displayed video image from one camera to the next. A video device that sequentially steps
through and displays all connected camera signals.

Simplex (Multiplexor)

A Mux with 1 frame store that can either multiplex record or show multi-screen pictures in live or play back mode. It cannot record
multiplexed images while showing a multiplexed mode.

Sync

Abbreviation for synchronization. Electronic pulses that are inserted into video signal for the purpose of assembling the picture in
the correct position.

Telemetry

A system utilizing control code transmitters and receivers. These use the video cable or a simple twisted pair cable to send their
information.

Terminated (75 Ohm Terminated)

Video Input of a piece of CCTV equipment, wired to be the last in a particular video line.

Tilt

The up and down (vertical) movement of a camera.

Triplex (Triplex Multiplexor)

Mux feature that gives you the ability to simultaneously view both playback and live cameras within the same multiscreen while still
recording.

TVL (Television Lines Resolution)

The maximum number of changes between light and dark pictures across 3/4 the width. Dictates the resolution of a CCTV product.

Twisted Pair

A cable, often screened, that consist of two conductors twisted together along their length

UPS (Un interruptible Power Supply)

Equipment that supplies power to a system in the event of a primary power loss. It may consist of batteries or an auxiliary
generator.

Video Motion Detection (VMD)

A system that uses the video signal from a camera to determine if there is any movement in the picture and set of an alarm.

Visible Light

Wavelengths of light visible to the human eye.

White Light
The entire spectrum of visible light.

Zoom

The ability to change the magnification of a scene.

Zoom Lens

A lens with a variable focal length. This lens may be effectively used as a wide angle, standard, or telephoto lens by varying the
focal length of the lens. A varifocal lens.

Zoom Ratio

The ratio of starting focal length (wide position) to the ending focal length (telephoto position) of a zoom lens. Usually represented
as a multiplier (i.e. 32x)

Y/C

A method of sending video pictures in 2 separate parts down 2 separate cables. The component parts are Y and C

Some Keys For Installation problem :

Nothing appears on the screen.

• Check the power cord and line connection between the camera and monitor are made properly.
• Color Camera Check that the DC/VIDEO selection switch on the rear of the camera is set to a proper position according to
the type of your auto IRIS lens.

The contrast on the screen is too weak.

• Adjust the contrast feature of the monitor. If the Camera is exposed under too strong light, change the camera position.

Bright white dots appear on the right side of the screen at night.

• It occurs when the power lamp on the front panel of the camera reflects against the glassy surface of the optional outer
cover. Change the camera position.

The image on the screen flickers.

• Is the camera directly facing sun or fluorescent lighting? Change the camera position. Check that the DC/VIDEO selected
switch at the rear of the camera is set to a proper position according to the type of your auto IRIS lens.

The image on the screen is dim.

• Check if the lens is stained. If dirty, clean the lens with a soft, clean cloth.

Why the DVR cannot start after connected to the power?

• A.) The adapter has been damaged. Please change an adapter B.) The power of the adapter is not enough. Please remove
the HDD to check C.)The DVR hardware problem

I see nothing but a blue screen after I turn on DVR.

 • Check the camera output and video input connectors on DVR back panel. If you can’t find problem with these connections,
check whether the camera power cable is firmly connected. Make sure the system format for NTSC and PAL is right.

The indicator of the DVR light, but no output. Why?

• a. The power of the adapter is not enough. Please remove the HDD or change an adapter to try. b. The video format of
the DVR is different from that of the monitor c. Connection problem. Please check the cable and the interface. d. The DVR
hardware problem.

Why are no images displayed on parts or all of the channels of the DVR?

• a. Connection problem. Please check the cable and the interface. b. Camera problem. Please check the cameras. c. The
video format of the DVR is different from that of the cameras d. DVR hardware problem.

Why do the DVR work fine, but I cannot control the DVR by the front panel or remote control?

• a.)inner connection problem. Please open the case to check the cable and the connection c. For MPEG4 series, when they
are in playback model, the majority of the buttons don’t work. d. DVR hardware problem

Switchers :
The Switchers are used, when more than one camera need to view on one monitor by switching the cameras.

Matrix Switchers
When more than one persons wants to view and control the cameras than matrix switchers are used.
• 4 channel - 96 channel
• Silent, one way, Two way audio
• Microprocessor based design
• Full function remote control
• Non volatile memory to store the programming
• Individual dwell time
• Latest Technology to save wiring
• The smallest size
• Customized designs as per customer requirement are also available on request.

Some Examples of Camera Specifications :

C & CS Mount Lens B/W Camera Specification C & CS Mount Lens Colour Camera Specification
Operating Voltage 12V DC & 24 V Ac , 50 Hz, Power Consumption 150 TV System PAL
mA Image sensor, 1/3” interline Transfer Sony CCD, 512 (H) X 582 Image Sensor 1/3” Interline Transfer CCD
(V) ; Effective Pixels, Scanning Process 2:1 interlace, Video Systems Picture Elements 512 (H) x 582 (V)
CCIR, Resolution 420 TV Line Horizontal Gamma 0.45, Video Signal Scanning System 2 : 1 Interlace
Output 1.0V p-p, 75ohm, BNC Connector, Max Light Sensitivity 0.5 Sync System Internal
Lux at F1.2 S/N Ratio 48 db, Electronic shutter Off, 1/50…. 1/50,000 Video Output Signal 1.0Vp-p/75 ohm
sec, Lens Mounting C/CS Mount, Synchronization Internal, Line-Lock, Resolution (Horizontal) 420 H TV Lines
Operating Conditions Temperature –10 degree C – 50 degree C S/N Ratio 50 db (AGC Off)
Humidity : 95 %, non- Condensing, Storage Conditions Temperature – Min. Illumination 1.00Lux (F1.2)
degree C – 60 degree C’ Humidity : 95%, Non- Condensing For ESC (*1) Range 1/50-1/80000 sec
storage period of more than 1 month ;Use fresh desiccant and protect Auto Iris Lens Video / DC
the camera From moisture in a closed contain Dimensions (W X H X L) Lens Mount C/CS Mount Lens
Weight 50 x 50 x 120 mm, Weight Approx. 400g Power Input DC 12V ± 1.0V 160 mA
Operating Temp. / Humidity -10 degree C ~ + 50 degree
C /30 % ~ 90 %