What Does CCTV Mean?

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is the use of video cameras to transmit a signal to a specific place, on a limited set of monitors.

What Does DVR Mean?

A digital video recorder (DVR) is a consumer electronics device or application software that records video in a digital format to a disk drive, USB flash drive, SD memory card or other local or networked mass storage device. The term includes set-top boxes with recording facility, portable media players and software for personal computers which enables video capture and playback to and from disk.

How Long Can I Record For?

The amount of time a recording device such as a DVR can archive depends on many variables: 1) The size of the storage device ie: hard drive 2) The cameras resolution. 3) The cameras frame rate 4) The record settings such as recording only when there is motion vs all the time. Additionally there are other elements that can affect your record times as well which generally occur on a case by case basis.

Can I View My Cameras Remotely

Some DVR's have the capability of being viewed remotely via the Internet. In most cases this is achieved via Internet Explorer or the DVR's proprietary software. It is important to note the speed and quality of the image via a remote connection is greatly dependant on the DVR's or Cameras compression type and the speed of the Internet connection on both ends. Additionally some IP cameras will allow you to connect via a network or Internet directly to them.

Are DVR's MAC Compatible

The majority of DVR's are still not MAC compatible. However there are models in the industry that are MAC compatible. Just make sure to mention this when speaking to a surveillance representative.

Are DVR's Smart Phone Compatible

The majority of DVR's are still not Smart Phone compatible. For the select few that support Smart Phone technology they are generally limited to Droid 2 or Iphone models only.  In most cases this type of remote viewing is achieved via the phone browser or a downloaded application. Additionally, you will only be able to view one camera at a time. It is important to note the speed and quality of the image via a remote connection is greatly dependant on the DVR's or Cameras compression type and the speed of the Internet connection on both ends.

Can I Record Audio

Yes, most DVR's come with an audio option. However, the number of audio channels do not always match the number of video channels so it is important to disclose your audio during your consultation. Additionally, since most analog cameras do not come with built in audio, you will probably need to purchase a separate microphone in order to achieve this goal.

How Many Cameras Do I Need

There are many factors that will contribute to the number of cameras that will be required in order to survey a particular area. Some of the factors are as follows: Area to be covered, Level of detail to be captured, Lighting condition, Visual obstructions, etc. The absolute best way to make this determination is to schedule an on site consultation.

What is LUX

The lux is the measurement unit of illuminance and luminous emittance measuring luminous power per area. LUX specifications for surveillance cameras often include a minimum illuminance level in lux at which the camera will record a satisfactory image. A camera with good low-light capability will have a lower lux rating. Below is a chart containing real world examples of LUX in different environments.

What Happens If I Loose Power?

Most Security DVR's will come back on as soon as power is restored. However, we suggest an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) which provides a short period of backup power and also serves as a surge protection device..

Can I Zoom-In With My Camera?

In most cases only Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) type cameras will allow the user to zoom in and out. This type of camera is usually controlled with an optional joy stick controller. However there are cameras that have a motorized zoom lens installed. With these camera types you may have the ability to zoom in and out only.

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