Facts about CCTV Camera

Introduction

The CCTV sends out video signals that are directly encoded and fed to a 110 volt power line. You will find all kinds of such cameras out there to come with a companion decoder. This device can plugged anywhere including an ordinary television set at your home. These cameras make use of line level RCA type cables which are the standard cables for all kinds of video output. One of the most advantageous facts about CCTV cameras is the use of infrared technology. This advanced technology gives these cameras the ability to pick up crystal clear video images even in total darkness. The best of CCTV cameras will be able to pick up images in pitch dark up to a distance of thirty feet.

CCTV cameras are incredibly versatile when it comes to their usability. The fact that you can directly record the captured image onto your home VCR makes it very convenient. Plus the fact that you can use your very own TV set for monitoring purposes.

By BBC News Online's Jane Wakefield

he vision of cameras watching your every move is close to becoming a reality, with analysts predicting a tenfold increase in CCTV in the UK in the next five years. The business of surveillance is about to undergo a radical shift as digital cameras become commonplace. Even now, CCTV is the ever-present eye in shopping centres, railway stations and airports and it is most definitely watching you.
According to statistics, the average citizen is caught on CCTV cameras 300 times a day.
There are 25 million CCTV cameras in operation worldwide, with 2.5 million in the UK.   

Impact of digital

In Reading town centre alone, there are 327 CCTV cameras, a handful on the street, 140 in the shopping centre and 161 in the main carpark.
And the chances of getting caught on camera are set to rise, particularly with the use of digital CCTV.


While analogue cameras have limited range and carry a less-than-perfect image, digital cameras will be able to record more and in better quality.

"Analogue only records about 5% of what is going on, whereas digital systems can record everything and there is no deterioration in the quality," explains Oliver Vellacott, the head of IndigoVison, makers of surveillance systems.

Digital cameras can also be networked together, something not possible with analogue because the signal has to be sent along a dedicated line and can travel no further than about 170 kilometres (100 miles).

Mr Vellacott predicts a scenario where digital cameras are all-pervasive - not just in streets but in all public spaces. 

Reduction of crime?

The UK Government is convinced of the benefits of CCTV. Hugh Marriage, the Home Office's crime reduction officer for the south-east of England, says it definitely reduces crime.

"There is no doubt about the benefits.

"It tends to move offenders elsewhere so in a town centre with a good surveillance system you will still get some level of drug dealing for instance, but shoplifting will be eliminated because there are no shops outside of the area with the cameras," he explains.