HowToSurveillance Blog

Here is a free online CCTV lens calculator that can be used to help select the focal length for your security camera based on the anticipated target distance and the width of the target area (field of view) desired.

CCTV Lens Calculator

Wireless camera systems have a very high ‘coolness’ factor (wireless is the ‘in’ thing these days ya know), however, there are three major drawbacks that need to be considered before purchasing a wireless camera. In fact, I often tell people that they should consider a standard ‘hard-wired’ security camera first, and if possible avoid going wireless. Here are five problems associated with wireless security cameras:

1. Most wireless systems are on the 2.4 GHz frequency band which is crowded with tons of other devices ranging from wireless PCs to cordless phones. This makes for possible interference with the reception of the video signal. 
2. Weather events such as rain, snow, and even wind can wreak havoc with wireless signals. 
3. Terrain features such as hills, buildings, and walls can reduce signal strength
4. Limited focal length lense availability. The transmitter adds cost and bulk to the camera, so most manufacturers of consumer wireless cameras only offer them with a standard wide angle lens. If you want a varifocal or longer focal length lens, you may be out of luck.
5. Anyone with a 2.4 GHz video receiver can possibly pick up your video signal from that wireless camera used in your home. The manufacturers don’t really have a standardized encryption for most consumer wireless security cameras. 

Click the link below for a video introduction on how a wireless camera system works and also discusses some of their advantages and disadvantages:
Wireless Security Camera

Security camera systems, also known as CCTV (closed circuit television) systems are being utilized by an increasing number of homeowners and small business owners concerned about crime and safety. Video surveillance can provide the homeowner with a knowledge of what that “strange noise” outside is, and the peace of mind in knowing who is on the property at 3:00 a.m. The basics of how to set up a basic security camera system are shown in the following How-To video:
Security Camera Set up

This video shows a PC based video recording system, however, there are many stand-alone DVR (digital video recorder) systems on the market today that can also be used to record surveillance footage.

CCTV Introductory Video – Looking for a good, basic introduction to video surveillance systems? This video provides a good overview of how a basic surveillance system works. This information could be very helpful to do-it-yourself homeowners and small business owners who want to know the basics of how a security camera system works. Just click the link below to watch the How-To video for free:
Introduction to Video Surveillance