Here is a list of common CCTV and security camera types and their common applications.
IP Cameras | Dome Cameras | PTZ Cameras | Box Cameras | Bullet Cameras | Covert Cameras | Mobile Surveillance
Are IP Cameras Right for You?
There are many benefits to owning an IP camera system for your application, but analog camera systems are still sufficient for some people. Below, you will see the main differences and benefits of each type of system to help you decide.
The difference between IP and analog.
The main difference between an IP camera system and an analog camera system is that IP systems are truly digital. The IP camera takes on the role of a DVR for video compression and motion detection and transmits a digital stream back to your recorder across your IP network.
When you need IP.
IP camera systems allow you to use higher resolution megapixel cameras and depending on licensing, you can add multiple cameras to your network that is in place, without the worry of running more cable. IP camera systems are also great for multi-site monitoring, since everything is done digitally and can be accessed over the Internet.
When you need analog.
Analog camera systems offer many of the features that IP camera systems do (outside of ease of install and higher resolution recording), but can provide an adequate level of surveillance at a lower cost.
Dome Cameras Offer Unobtrusive Security.
Dome cameras are perfect for residential and commercial applications where security is needed, but the cameras need to be out of the way. Dome cameras can be used indoors or outdoors, offer many features and benefits and most can be mounted vertically or horizontally to better fit the needs of your application. All of this is done without the need for additional brackets or enclosures, making this a top pick for most consumers.
Great for: > Public areas > Short-range applications > High-risk areas
PTZ Cameras Offer Almost Everything.
PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) cameras allow you to monitor large areas with a single camera. As well as moving the camera to the area you would like to view, you can set the camera up to patrol, move to an area based on motion detection, be triggered by alarm sensors, etc. All of these actions can be done locally or remotely over the Internet.
Box Cameras are an Effective Deterrent.
Box cameras are easily identifiable and can be thought of us a great theft deterrent because of their size. A big benefit to box cameras is that they allow you to pick the lens, housing, mounting bracket, etc. that you would like to go with the camera.
Bullet Cameras offer Discreet Security.
Bullet cameras are small and unobtrusive, which makes them great for indoor or outdoor applications where the cameras need to be more discreet.
The benefits of Covert Cameras.
Covert cameras are the perfect camera to see what is going on when you are not in the office or at home. Since they are not visible like other cameras, people will continue doing what they do when you are not around.
What Mobile DVRs can do for You.
Mobile DVRs are most commonly used for automobile applications, most commonly used for school buses, logistics, vehicles for a business, etc.. Some features include the DVR being hooked up to the ignition/battery to be turned on and off, GPS triggered location, etc.