When you think about video surveillance, the first question is what camera to choose. Why do you need remote cylinders on the brackets, and how much better to fit a spherical, in which cases you can do with a budget mini-camera, we understand together.

Analog camera or IP camera?

There are two classes of surveillance cameras: analog and digital (IP). You can read more about their selection and characteristics in this material, and here we will briefly note the basic differences between the two types.

Analog CCTV cameras have recently lost their position on the modern market, but are still winning by democratic prices. However, they require more cables (from 2 to 3), additional connectors, and connectors for connection. Analog cameras are scarce in functionality, which is not true for the digital class.

IP camcorders offer much more features. Modern IP cameras have extensive functionality: speakers, microphones, built-in analytics, various detectors, support for cloud technology. Installation is also easier; for the video signal and power is enough one cable thanks to PoE technology.

For small rooms

Modest squares, for example, at the reception, in a small office, above the counter of the store, you usually need a targeted tracking. Here, miniature cameras are perfect. Here is what you may need when choosing:

If the coverage area is large enough, choose models with the parameter F=2.8-3.6 mm; these cameras have a larger viewing angle, so the visual coverage is wider. At focal length F>4 mm, the angle of view is sharply reduced, and in a small room, the camera will not have enough coverage.

For offices and industrial premises

Dome or spherical cameras are more suitable where you need to see the space in all directions. They fit into any interior without being too eye-catching and are easy to install and operate. Installation is very convenient; the lens position can be easily adjusted after the camera is installed.

Considering the specifics of the object, you should choose between simple and vandal-proof cameras. For example, it is better to use street cameras made in vandal-proof housing for a security object, premises with negative temperatures, passenger elevator of a residential building, etc. This will increase security and extend the life of the cameras.

For the street

Street CCTV makes its demands. Bellet or cylindrical models of cameras are more suitable for monitoring the perimeter of the building, the adjacent territory and other objects. There is a special foot for installation, and the hinge paired with adjustment screws changes the position of the camera in the plane. The body often has a small elongated visor to protect the lens from backlighting.

For the perimeter, it is better to choose cameras with a narrow lens, where the focal length will vary from 4 to 12 mm. Often it is necessary to install the camera on an additional remote bracket and the camera, in turn, is directed along the building to fix the approach to the windows and emergency exits.

For larger areas

For shopping centers and specialized sites, the use of PTZ rotary cameras is optimal. They are characterized by high mobility and the possibility of remote control; from a distance you can rotate the camera in different axes, change the position of the lens, zoom in and out.

Here it is important to take into account speed values, especially in places with alarm outputs, when the camera is rotated by means of an alarm signal.