Buying a home CCTV system needn’t be a complicated task. But some factors should be kept in mind when shopping around for one. Here’s an overview of the things that you need to know to help you choose a CCTV system for your home.
Type of Lens
Simple rule of thumb, the wider the lens, the wider the range that it will cover, but the lower the picture quality. The narrow lens will give sharper detail, but will compromise on the range of vision. If there is an area of your house that requires extra security, like the nook where your safe is hidden, a narrow lens should meet your needs well. An auto iris lens will capture good images in changing light conditions, which is why they work well outdoors. For indoor use, a manual or fixed lens will suffice.
Black & White or Colour Home CCTV System
If a majority of your surveillance will be indoors, then you should go in for a colour CCTV system. Colour gives better detail and picture definition. Colour system is more expensive, but you can find lower-priced models also. On the other hand, black and white systems are cheaper and a better choice for outdoor surveillance. If you are planning on setting up cameras both indoors and outdoors, you can opt for cameras that take both black and white, and colour footage. For surveillance in a low or no light environment, consider investing in a CCTV camera with night vision or infrared.
Resolution
The resolution is the same for a CCTV system as for your television set – the higher the resolution, the better the picture quality. Resolution for CCTV cameras is measured in TVLs or TV lines. The basic models will have 380 TVLs to 420 TVLs. The better quality ones that cost more will have 480 TVLs to 570 TVLs.
Wireless or Wired
A wired home security system is 9 times out of 10 more stable but is harder to set-up. The main drawback is you’ll have cables all over the place that might be in the way or just look plain messy. While a wireless system does offer portability, its sensitivity to noise and downright mediocre image quality can be frustrating. But technology is progressing everyday and there should soon be a wireless system that has worked out the kinks.
Aesthetics
Most CCTV cameras are bulky and quite obvious in their appearance. This is so it is apparent to an intruder that the house is under surveillance, which is the main crime deterrent. But there are certain types of cameras like the elegant dome cameras or the easy-to-conceal bullet cameras which will blend right in with your décor in case you do not wish the people to know that they are under surveillance.
You can choose an appropriate home CCTV system only if you’re clear on what you will need it for. So research properly, talk to other CCTV system owners if possible, and buy from an authorized dealer who gives warranty and after-sales service.
