Want to Upgrade Home Security? Must Check the Explanation of the Following CCTV Types!

October 21, 2024 | Tech at Biota
Want to Upgrade Home Security? Must Check the Explanation of the Following CCTV Types!

At the first moment of wanting to pursue a camera, you will definitely face a dilemma that is quite dizzying. Between DSLR , point and shoot , mirrorless , to classic film cameras, choosing the right camera can be more complicated than an election.

Same thing with choosing the type of CCTV, and even this is more difficult because the risk of choosing the wrong one can be much more fatal. Imagine a house being infiltrated by a thief just because of choosing the wrong type of CCTV, it must be more heartbreaking than incompatibility with a mere photography camera.

Guide to choosing the type of CCTV for the home

Between an affordable DSLR or a lightweight and stylish mirrorless that rivals DSLR capabilities, there is no 100% 'right' choice in choosing a camera. Depending on the type of user and their purpose, choosing the right camera depends on the context.

Likewise for security, the selection of CCTV types will depend more on the needs of use at home . From indoor or outdoor installation to features such as 360-degree rotation, all of these factors will influence the selection of CCTV types.

For more details, the following discussion of CCTV types can be an introduction . With the increasing variety of CCTV types due to technological developments, research before checking out goods is clearly a mandatory step.

1. Types of CCTV based on technology

Like photographic cameras that by their nature consist of analog and digital cameras, CCTV is also divided into analog CCTV and digital CCTV. In terms of technology, digital CCTV or IP camera CCTV is indeed much more modern than analog CCTV. .

But like music cassettes and other vintage items that still have fans, analog CCTV also still has certain advantages.

Analog CCTV types - Cheap but less practical

Image adapted from rawpixel on Freepik .

As the name suggests, analog CCTV is a type of CCTV that sends its recorded data using analog signals via coaxial cables. Its name is outdated technology, analog CCTV capabilities are still far behind digital CCTV.

The image quality of analog CCTV is still one level below digital CCTV. If you need sound, this type of CCTV is also less than ideal because it still requires an additional digital video recorder (DVR) to be able to record sound.

Compared to the type of CCTV IP camera that is connected to the internet, analog CCTV recordings can also only be watched on a screen that is directly connected to the CCTV. Not to mention the absence of smart features such as integration with smartphones and notifications from motion detection .

This means that analog CCTV users must be ready to monitor video recordings 24 hours nonstop to ensure home security. However, this type of CCTV is indeed cheaper , and is still popular among SMEs for security or monitoring employee situations in the office.

Types of digital CCTV - Security based on cutting-edge technology

Image adapted from Jakub Zerdzicki on Pexels .

Just as streaming technology made cassettes and CDs extinct, digital CCTV is also starting to push analog CCTV out of the market. This type of CCTV that can record sound is often called an IP camera because it uses internet protocol (IP) based technology.

Using digital compression, digital CCTV can send high-resolution video footage directly over the internet. Let alone a 2MP camera with Full HD 1080p video resolution, an 8MP IP camera with 4K video resolution is also widely available on the market.

The video sent is also encrypted and can only be accessed on devices that have the appropriate authentication. Just pair the digital CCTV with a smartphone , and check the condition of the front door while in the office can be directly from the application on the smartphone .

Compared to analog CCTV that absolutely requires coaxial cable, IP cameras are more practical because they can use Wi-Fi. Problems can arise when installing outdoor IP cameras far from the router , but this can be overcome by using a Wi-Fi extender .

2. Types of CCTV based on connectivity

In an era where everything is wireless , it is understandable to forget that there was a time when the mouse and earphones had to be plugged into the computer. Although wireless CCTV types have become the standard, wired CCTV is actually still more reliable.

In the midst of density, for example, do not expect wireless connections such as Wi-Fi or cellular to remain stable. While those who like gaming on computers or consoles must understand very well that Ethernet cable connections can be much more stable.

Wired CCTV type - Stable connection, but installation requires effort

Image adapted from Yifan Tang on Pexels .

In today's market, the types of wired CCTV are divided into analog CCTV that uses coaxial cables, or digital CCTV that uses Ethernet cables. Of the two, digital CCTV that relies on power over Ethernet (PoE) technology is clearly superior.

PoE CCTV only requires one Ethernet cable for power and data transmission, making installation simpler. It is true that you still have to pull the cable, but this type of CCTV without Wi-Fi is more stable and has a higher capacity than CCTV that uses Wi-Fi.

The downside is that PoE CCTV requires a router or switch that supports PoE. Therefore, this type of CCTV is more often used in professional environments that require impeccable protection such as in banks or in sensitive server rooms.

Types of CCTV wireless - Stable connection, but installation takes some effort

Image adapted from Freepik .

From smart TVs to automatic vacuum cleaners , which aspect of life is not covered by the convenience of Wi-Fi access? As Wi-Fi access becomes more popular, the use of Wi-Fi CCTV types is also expanding.

With fully automated setup thanks to smart home integration, the Wi-Fi CCTV installation process is very simple and supports the do it yourself (DIY) ethos . It still requires electrical wiring, but it is still much simpler than pulling coaxial or Ethernet cables.

If you want 100% cable-free, there is a battery CCTV that is purely installed by plugging it into the wall or ceiling. With wireless CCTV, the reason for refusing to use CCTV because the installation is complicated will no longer apply.

3. Types of CCTV based on installation location

For those who are experienced in home improvement matters, you must already understand the difference between exterior and interior paint. With weather that can change from extreme heat to heavy rain, exterior paint is clearly much more resilient.

Environmental factors are also a factor in choosing the type of CCTV. Depending on the installation location, the types of CCTV are divided into outdoor CCTV, indoor CCTV, and doorbell cameras that can double as a bell and CCTV at the same time.

Types of CCTV outdoor - 24 hour protection against dust and rain

Image adapted from RDNE stock project on Pexels .

Living in an equatorial country, the choice is only between scorching dusty heat or windy storms, there is never a middle ground. With extreme weather like this, the selection of outdoor CCTV types must always consider the toughness of the camera.

Checking the IP rating certification that indicates protection against dust and water is an absolute price . Especially for outdoor PTZ cameras , because the slightest damage can affect the 360-degree rotation of the camera.

Don't forget to also check features like color night vision or LED spotlight to catch thieves who are just playing around with ninja cosplay .

Types of CCTV indoor - Monitor children and household help from anywhere

Image adapted from Freepik .

Unlike tough outdoor CCTV, indoor CCTV is generally more feminine because it takes into account aesthetic value . It would be a shame if the interior design of the house is maximized, but falls because of the CCTV design that clashes.

Aside from the aesthetic aspect, indoor CCTV also includes mini CCTV types that are flexible in design and can be tucked away. Unlike the more 'spacious' outer walls, the area inside the house is certainly much more contained.

As an added value, this flexibility can also be useful because indoor CCTV types are often placed somewhat hidden in case the maid is mischievous.

Smart Doorbell Camera - Smart doorbell combined with CCTV

Image adapted from Fastily on Wikimedia .

Not only officials who can hold dual positions, doorbells can now also multitask to become CCTV. Doorbell cameras combine the functions of a doorbell and CCTV into one , so they can simultaneously greet package deliveries and catch thieves wandering in front of the door.

The way this modern doorbell works is the same as an IP camera , and it is integrated with the smart home ecosystem. Want to check the situation or greet guests at the front door, all can be done directly from your smartphone , and don't forget smart features such as motion detection .

In addition, this type of CCTV can also function as an intercom . When a guest presses the bell, a video call notification will appear on the smartphone , and the user can immediately see and chat with the guest at the door.

4. Types of CCTV based on coverage

Since the main function of CCTV is for security, CCTV coverage is an important parameter in determining the right type of CCTV. Both fixed CCTV or PTZ cameras that can rotate 360 ​​degrees, both have their own advantages .

In fact, it is not uncommon to use a combination of the two to create a comprehensive layer of security at home.

CCTV Fixed - constant protection at vulnerable points

Image adapted from Rawpixel on Pexels .

Security issues most often arise due to carelessness and negligence. But with fixed CCTV that is ready to monitor a certain area for 24 hours and 7 days non-stop, legendary thieves like Lupin must also be confused.

As a result, the fixed CCTV type is best suited for protection at home entry points or valuables locations such as front doors and garage doors. The problem is, the statue-like stature of fixed CCTV can create blind spots .

Thieves can infiltrate through points that are not reachable by cameras, so determining the location of the fixed CCTV installation determines the performance . For more comprehensive security, a combination of fixed CCTV can be used to cover each other's blind spots .

CCTV PTZ - flawless 360 degree coverage

Image adapted from Jakub Zerdzicki on Pexels .

Short for Pan-Tilt-Zoom , PTZ camera is a type of CCTV that can rotate horizontally ( Pan ) and vertically ( Tilt ) and enlarge image details ( Zoom ) . This zoom can be digital or optical using a high-end smartphone -style telephoto lens .

These three characteristics make PTZ CCTV capable of providing comprehensive protection for houses of type 120 and above. With motion tracking technology , PTZ cameras can continue to follow the movements of uninvited guests.

However, this type of CCTV still only has one 'eye', and when the camera faces a certain side, the opposite side will be unprotected . Generally, PTZ cameras are usually combined with fixed CCTV for more complete protection.

Explanation of the types of CCTV and their functions

Whether wireless or wired , the many types of CCTV available today make upgrading home security easier. Just choose the right type of CCTV, and monitoring the situation at home is as easy as opening an application on your smartphone .

Don't miss it, let's go straight to the BIOTA Smart Home official store , and secure your home now. With advanced features such as night vision and motion detection , BIOTA smart cameras are always a trusted partner for home security!

Cover image adapted from Jakub Zerdzicki on Pexels .