Understanding Video Surveillance Systems

This chapter focuses on to identify strengths and weaknesses of different types of security and surveillance systems and devices. It helps to select appropriate camera types when given specific scenarios. The chapter shows the major components of a basic video surveillance system. The best surveillance cameras employ charged coupled device (CCD) technology. The two important specifications that influence the cost of cameras are light sensitivity rating and resolution. The camera's resolution‐specification method depends on whether it is an analog camera or a digital camera. Surveillance cameras can be mounted outside the facility to provide the ability to recognize someone wishing to enter the security perimeter area such as a front door or driveway gate. The chapter discusses the applications for cameras. The introduction of digital video recorders (DVRs) has greatly reduced the dependence on storage media quality and operator intervention. The chapter shows an example of a video‐processing unit with built‐in web access capabilities.