A surveillance system is a set of 2 or more cameras designed to record activity, monitor, and ultimately protect or prevent the execution of an illegal act in a space or installation. It can be installed in professional or even residential areas, providing the ability to record and store footage on a 24-hour basis. However, what are the differences between the systems currently available and what do you need to know about their individual characteristics before making a purchase?

What does a surveillance system usually include?

Beyond the cameras, of course, a CCTV system usually comes with a recorder, which, mainly, allows the storage as well as the review of the recorded audiovisual material. In addition, some options also include a monitor, for direct, real-time display of the images, cabling materials for connecting the various parts of the system, a power supply or even self-adhesive warning signs, which inform people of the presence of a surveillance system in the area.

Analog (CCTV) or IP Network Cameras?

The first basic distinction of surveillance systems available on the market concerns the type and technology used for capturing and storing footage. Thus, an analog CCTV system is the oldest technology but at the same time the most affordable option for monitoring a space. Practically, systems of this type are connected through a coaxial cable to a DVR (Digital Video Recorder), where the footage captured by the cameras is recorded.

On the other hand, an IP network camera system is the most modern technological choice, providing higher resolution and better image quality compared to analog systems. Additionally, some of these cameras offer more storage options, allowing the transfer of footage to NVR (Network Video Recorders), to a cloud service through a corresponding subscription, or locally to SD cards inserted into specific slots on the cameras.

Systems with Control Hub

Alternatively, some of the systems also come with a Control Hub that functions as the central control and connection point for the cameras, while also allowing the storage of recording data. In addition, a Control Hub can also function as a control hub for connecting other smart devices or sensors, enabling the implementation of various smart scenarios or even support for voice commands through the ecosystems of Alexa and Google Home.

Wireless connectivity & power supply

By the term wireless connectivity in a surveillance system, we mean the ability to transfer the data from camera recordings without the use of any cable. In contrast to wired system options, where cables are used to connect the cameras to the recorder, wireless systems connect via Wi-Fi network, thus providing both the transfer and storage of the data they record. 

The above cases, apart from providing freedom and flexibility during installation in the space, also allow remote monitoring of the installation site live, through our mobile phone, tablet, or computer, after installing the compatible application or program.

#Skroutz tip: Even greater flexibility during installation is provided by surveillance systems whose cameras are powered by rechargeable batteries rather than by a power supply. In this case, installation can even be done in places where a power outlet is not directly accessible.

#Skroutz tip: Another way to achieve a more simplified and easy installation of a network surveillance system in a space is provided by PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology. Through this, cameras, using a single network cable, can transmit data and be powered simultaneously.

Suggestions: Wireless Wi-Fi Camera Systems

Video resolution selection

A key feature that you should take into account when choosing a surveillance system is the video resolution supported by the cameras, as this determines the quality, clarity, and detail of the recordings. In this case, you should know that the more megapixels the cameras in the system you purchase have, the better the quality of the image recorded by your cameras will be. 

For example, a surveillance set with Full HD resolution cameras at 1080p will offer you good image quality, allowing for relatively good recognition of faces and objects as well. For recording at even higher resolution with very good clarity, you can choose a system with Full HD+ cameras, while an option with 4K resolution will allow you to distinguish even the smallest details. Define your main need as well as the surveillance requirements of the installation area and choose accordingly!

Internal or external installation?

Do you want to monitor the interior space of your home or business, or do you plan to place the system’s cameras outdoors, to monitor the surrounding area of a facility? In the second case, make sure they have the appropriate protection certification that will allow their safe installation in outdoor spaces, so they are protected from weather conditions.

How many cameras will I need?

The truth is that there is no specific answer to the question above, as the choice of the number of cameras and, by extension, the purchase of a system depends on a number of factors that mainly have to do with the size of the area you want to monitor and whether that area is a business or your home. 

In the first case, you could focus on sets with at least 4 cameras, since, as is logical, the requirements may be increased, given the existence of more sensitive areas, which may be related to the presence of customers or employees, transaction areas, or goods receiving areas. On the other hand, in a home space, systems with 2 or even 3 cameras will probably adequately cover the need for complete monitoring and protection of both the interior and exterior areas of your home.

Where is the installation of cameras allowed according to the law?

First of all, you should know that if the cameras exclusively record our private space, there is no issue of application or non-application of the legislation on personal data, and therefore no obligations arise from it. Furthermore, if you want to place a camera on your balcony, you should make sure that its field of view is exclusively within its boundaries and does not extend to a public road or the entrance of the apartment building.

In any case, you should keep in mind that video surveillance and recording of a space outside the strict boundaries of our home should either focus exclusively on areas for your own use or, in the case of affecting other tenants, you should first have their consent. For example, in a shared parking lot, the camera can only focus on your own vehicle and not on other nearby vehicles, while in the case of placing a camera that will monitor the entrance of our home in the hallway of an apartment building, there should be information and consent from the other tenants on the floor.