Closed-circuit television – most commonly referred to as CCTV – is fairly well known in most parts of the developed world, and is most commonly employed for security purposes. The technology utilizes video cameras which send their signals to designated monitoring stations. Unlike normal television broadcasts, the signals from CCTV are not transmitted over the open airwaves, but over so-called closed-circuits. CCTV security systems are visible parts of the layered security seen at locations like casinos, convenience stores, banks, and airports.
Much like VCR technology, CCTV security systems have traditionally provided less than ideal picture quality, utilize bulky tapes that often require a great deal of space to store, and are generally only usable in areas where the various components – recorders, cameras, and monitors – can be located in close enough proximity to enable them to be linked together with a series of cables for signal transmission.
In recent years, however, there have been great strides made in improving the CCTV security technology. Much of the research that has gone into these advances has been spurred by the increasing use of these systems in places like the United Kingdom, where CCTV security cameras can be seen on almost every street corner and public place. The newest CCTV security cameras employ a range of high tech features including motion detection, night vision, and alarm systems that alert those operating the cameras when anything irregular occurs.
CCTV security is also employed in various parts of the world to monitor compliance with arms control treaties, as well as in such sensitive areas as nuclear and other types of power plants. In addition, they are useful for monitoring in industrial areas that are considered too harsh for a continual human presence. Not surprisingly, many homeowners are turning to CCTV security systems as part of their overall home security planning. CCTV systems have demonstrated an ability to deter various forms of opportunistic crimes, making them an ideal component of a home system – particularly in homes containing many valuable items.
There are many different types of CCTV security systems, ranging from very inexpensive models that are often used as much for their deterrent factor as for any misbehavior they might capture to complex, multi-tiered systems that can read the label on a deck of cards at the end of the street. Anyone who chooses to purchase a CCTV security system for their home or business will have no difficulty finding a system within their price range. As with any security system, however, you really do get what you pay for.
CCTV security systems are available in various electronics outlets, and the personnel there can usually help the customer wade through the complexities of the various features the systems offer. In addition, there are a number of online sites that have CCTV systems for sale, and some of these sites often offer a broader selection of models than many of their brick and mortar counterparts. As with any electronics purchase – and particularly those purchases involving home or business security, it is incumbent upon any consumer to thoroughly research his or her options prior to selecting a product.
