Effective security cameras are the eyes, and occasionally the ears, of your business. While it is common to want to monitor your business while you’re away, deciding which cameras and where to install them can be challenging. Though iTech Digital is more than happy to assist you with every step of this process, wouldn’t it be nice to have some knowledge under your belt?
When choosing your camera type and placement, ask yourself a few initial questions:
- What do I want to see?
- Where do I want to mount the camera?
- Will the cameras be exposed to weather, water, or abuse?
- How will cameras affect the look of my building?
Once you’ve made these decisions, you’ll need to choose which cameras best meet your needs in the locations that you’ve outlined. Below are the four basic camera form factors:
Dome Camera: The most popular type of CCTV camera. Consists of a plastic or polycarbonate (unbreakable) dome and camera body and is often attached to a ceiling or wall. Commonly used as a discreet option in most interior buildings, but many are outdoor ready. Domes vary greatly in size based on features and application. Look for “vandal” or “armor” domes for areas where the camera might be exposed to physical damage.
Application: Anywhere and everywhere
Box Camera: A rectangular bodied camera with an interchangeable lens and a versatile platform for a variety of applications. If you are looking to zoom in from far away this is your best choice. Be cautious of where you choose to place this camera type; if used outside, box cameras require a special enclosure.
Application: Anywhere you need to zoom in a long distance. Parking lots, license plates, and cash registers.
Bullet Camera: Named for its distinctive shape (think can of coke); bullet cameras are often considered an aesthetic upgrade from a traditional box / enclosure combo. A weather resistant camera, most feature an adjustable lens.
Application: Parking, Entry doors, license plates
Environmental Camera (Enviro): A weather resistant camera with a fixed lens. This small camera is weather sealed to prevent water/condensation infiltration and allows for function in harsh environments.
Application: Cooler, freezer, entry doors and drive through.
Now that you have the camera lingo down, who’s ready for a pop quiz?
