Commit afbdb9
2025-03-07 21:55:45 R. Bishop: Initial Commit| /dev/null .. security/cctv.md | |
| @@ 0,0 1,147 @@ | |
| + | # Understanding CCTV Systems |
| + | |
| + | ## What is a CCTV System? |
| + | |
| + | CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) is a **video surveillance system** used for **monitoring, security, and crime prevention**. Unlike broadcast television, CCTV systems operate in a **closed-loop**, meaning that footage is only accessible to authorized users. These systems are commonly found in **homes, businesses, public spaces, and industrial facilities**. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Why Use CCTV? |
| + | |
| + | ### **Security & Crime Prevention** |
| + | - Deters criminal activity by providing visible surveillance. |
| + | - Provides **real-time monitoring** and evidence collection. |
| + | |
| + | ### **Remote Monitoring** |
| + | - Allows users to access live footage via **mobile apps or web interfaces**. |
| + | - Integration with **cloud storage** enables remote playback. |
| + | |
| + | ### **Workplace & Property Protection** |
| + | - Enhances security in **commercial and industrial** environments. |
| + | - Monitors **employee activity, inventory, and restricted areas**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **Traffic & Public Safety** |
| + | - Used in **traffic management** to monitor roads and enforce regulations. |
| + | - Deployed in **public spaces** to ensure safety and incident response. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Types of CCTV Systems |
| + | |
| + | ### **1. Analogue CCTV Systems** |
| + | - Uses **coaxial cables (RG59)** to transmit video signals. |
| + | - Requires a **Digital Video Recorder (DVR)** for recording and playback. |
| + | - Limited resolution and may require **signal boosters** for long distances. |
| + | |
| + | ### **2. IP (Network) CCTV Systems** |
| + | - Transmits video over **Ethernet (RJ45) or Wi-Fi**. |
| + | - Uses a **Network Video Recorder (NVR)** for storage. |
| + | - Supports **higher resolutions (1080p, 4K, 8K)** and remote access. |
| + | |
| + | ### **3. Wireless CCTV Systems** |
| + | - Connects to a network via **Wi-Fi** instead of cables. |
| + | - Easier to install but requires a **strong network signal**. |
| + | - Commonly used in **homes and small businesses**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **4. HD-over-Coax Systems (HDCVI, HDTVI, AHD)** |
| + | - Transmits **high-definition video** over coaxial cables. |
| + | - Provides an **upgrade path** for existing analogue installations. |
| + | - Offers **1080p, 4MP, and 4K resolutions** without needing full IP infrastructure. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## CCTV System Components |
| + | |
| + | ### **1. Cameras** |
| + | CCTV cameras capture video footage and vary in **type and functionality**. |
| + | |
| + | | **Camera Type** | **Description** | **Common Uses** | |
| + | |--------------|----------------|---------------| |
| + | | **Dome Camera** | Compact, vandal-resistant design | Indoor retail, offices | |
| + | | **Bullet Camera** | Long-range, weatherproof | Outdoor surveillance | |
| + | | **PTZ Camera** | Remote-controlled Pan-Tilt-Zoom | Large areas, public spaces | |
| + | | **Fisheye Camera** | 360-degree field of view | Warehouses, open spaces | |
| + | | **Thermal Camera** | Detects heat signatures | Perimeter security, night vision | |
| + | |
| + | ### **2. Video Recorders** |
| + | CCTV footage is stored on **dedicated recording devices**: |
| + | |
| + | | **Device** | **Function** | |
| + | |------------|-----------------| |
| + | | **DVR (Digital Video Recorder)** | Records analogue camera footage | |
| + | | **NVR (Network Video Recorder)** | Stores IP camera recordings | |
| + | | **HVR (Hybrid Video Recorder)** | Combines an NVR and DVR | |
| + | | **Cloud Storage** | Saves footage online for remote access | |
| + | |
| + | ### **3. Storage & Backup Solutions** |
| + | - **Hard Drives (HDDs)** → Used in **DVRs/NVRs** for local storage. |
| + | - **Network Attached Storage (NAS)** → Enables central data access. |
| + | - **Cloud-based storage** → Provides **off-site security and remote access**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **4. Power Supply & Cables** |
| + | CCTV systems require **proper wiring** for stable operation: |
| + | |
| + | | **Component** | **Purpose** | |
| + | |------------|------------| |
| + | | **Coaxial Cable (RG59, RG6)** | Used in CCTV connections | |
| + | | **Ethernet Cable (Cat5e, Cat6)** | Transmits video in IP cameras | |
| + | | **Power Supply (12V DC, PoE)** | Provides power to cameras | |
| + | | **PoE Switch (Power over Ethernet)** | Powers IP cameras via Ethernet | |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## CCTV Camera Features & Technologies |
| + | |
| + | ### **1. Resolution & Image Quality** |
| + | - **Standard (720p, 1080p HD)** → Common for general surveillance. |
| + | - **High-Resolution (4MP, 4K Ultra HD)** → Provides sharper images. |
| + | - **8K Cameras** → Used in **critical infrastructure and high-security** applications. |
| + | |
| + | ### **2. Night Vision (Infrared & Low Light)** |
| + | - **IR LEDs** → Enables cameras to see in complete darkness. |
| + | - **Color Night Vision** → Uses advanced sensors to enhance nighttime clarity. |
| + | |
| + | ### **3. Motion Detection & AI Analytics** |
| + | - Detects movement and **triggers alerts**. |
| + | - AI-enabled cameras can recognize **faces, license plates, and suspicious behavior**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **4. Weatherproof & Vandal-Resistant Cameras** |
| + | - **IP66/IP67-rated cameras** withstand rain, dust, and extreme conditions. |
| + | - **IK10-rated cameras** are resistant to impact and tampering. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## CCTV Installation Best Practices |
| + | |
| + | ### **1. Strategic Camera Placement** |
| + | - **Entrances & Exits** → Monitor who enters and leaves. |
| + | - **High-Risk Areas** → Cover cash registers, safes, and storage rooms. |
| + | - **Blind Spots** → Eliminate areas where criminals can hide. |
| + | |
| + | ### **2. Proper Wiring & Power Supply** |
| + | - Use **PoE (Power over Ethernet)** for simple and efficient IP camera setups. |
| + | - Secure cabling to prevent tampering and **signal interference**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **3. Regular Maintenance & Monitoring** |
| + | - Check for **dirty lenses, damaged cables, and faulty power supplies**. |
| + | - Regularly update **firmware** to prevent security vulnerabilities. |
| + | |
| + | ### **4. Compliance with Privacy Laws** |
| + | - Adhere to **GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)** for CCTV data handling. |
| + | - Display **CCTV signage** in public places to inform people of surveillance. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## CCTV in the Fire & Security Industry |
| + | |
| + | CCTV systems play a crucial role in **fire safety and security**, providing real-time video monitoring for: |
| + | |
| + | - **Intrusion Detection** → Alerts security teams to unauthorized access. |
| + | - **Fire Safety Monitoring** → Detects **smoke, flames, and emergency situations**. |
| + | - **Remote Surveillance** → Enables real-time viewing from **mobile apps & cloud storage**. |
| + | - **Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)** → Enhances vehicle security and access control. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Conclusion |
| + | CCTV systems are an **essential tool for security and monitoring**, offering **24/7 surveillance, crime deterrence, and remote access**. By choosing the right **camera types, recording devices, and installation techniques**, businesses and homeowners can ensure **effective and reliable protection** of their property and assets. |