Video security cameras have one basic purpose – to record the data for surveillance or monitoring. However, when it comes to the actual purchase of a video camera, one gets confused by the plethora of options available in the market. If you do have a basic understanding of the terms and technicalities, you might end up spending on the wrong devices.

Details on Video Security Camera Features

Wired and Wireless Cameras

One of the basic choices will be on this parameter. Do you want to install the camera yourself or you already have wirings installed in your house? Opt for a wireless one if you want to do the job yourself.  It is better to invest in wireless camera that cost a little more than wired cameras than spending additionally on the wiring. However, wired systems are considered more reliable.

Indoor and Outdoor Cameras

The best of indoor cameras can fail in the outdoors as outdoor cameras need to be weather proof. They should be able to bear the changes in temperature and moisture conditions. Good camera housings can help you in meeting these requirements.

Colored Cameras

These cameras are more expensive as compared to black and white cameras but do not function well in low light conditions.

Infrared Cameras

These cameras are best for night surveillance as they can produce high quality images even in the dark. You should definitely invest in these cameras if you are planning an outdoor security system for your home or business.

PTZ

PTZ refers to Pan, Tilt and Zoom. These features help you to move the camera and zoom to capture exact images. These cameras are very expensive and should be used in areas where law enforcement is a priority.

Covert Cameras

These are very small devices that can be hidden in any small object and can record data without getting noticed.

Dome Shaped Cameras

These cameras have a special some shaped cover that makes them aesthetically pleasing. They are available in a variety of shades and colours and can easily blend into the surroundings. These cameras are also safe against vandalism.

Camera Lens

Most cameras come with 3.6mm lens that are good enough to provide a 72 degree view. However, you can opt for wide lens camera if you want to monitor open spaces.

TVL

TV lines of resolution define the picture quality. Higher TVL refers to better picture quality. A TVL range of 380 to 420 is considered to be reasonable.

Lux

The light sensitivity of a video camera is measured in Lux. (luminance value). Higher measures refer to more light.

Auto Iris

Auto Iris are lenses in a camera that change their settings with the change in lighting conditions.

Motion Detectors

Certain cameras come with embedded motion detectors and can capture date only when there is a movement. This helps you by removing the need of scanning through blank video recordings.

A little research on these features will help you in selecting the right video security camera for your requirements.