Understanding CCTV Camera Types A camera is the most key component of a Video Surveillance Solution. It works similar to the human eye and is responsible for collecting video data which gets transmitted for the purpose of display and storage. Let’s look at how CCTV camera is categorized into different types based on different aspects.
Classification based on sensor technology: 1.
Optical Cameras: Optical cameras work on the reflected light principal. The image provided by the camera is due to the light reflected from the object to the camera. 2. Thermal Cameras: The thermal camera provides images based on the heat energy emitted by the object. Classification is based on communication Technology: A camera is classified based on the communication technology it supports – 1.
Analog: Analog Camera made to work with an analog Video Surveillance System is known as analog camera. The output of these cameras is analogue composite signal which get transmitted through co-axial cables.
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Analog HD: A few years back,“Analog High Definition” technology were introduce introduced which was able to process video images of much higher
resolution than what traditional composite video technology supported. Analog camera providing high definition output is called AHD camera. 3.
IP: Camera providing digital video output is called IP camera. These cameras are part of the IP video surveillance solution. The video data uses TCP/IP protocol for data transmission. The mode of transmission can be through wired or wireless technology. Camera supporting wireless technology is called a wireless camera.
Classification based on camera functionality: 1.
Black & White camera: The cameras giving the video output in black and white format are the black and white cctvcamera. Nowadays these are rarely used but have an advantage in low light application areas. 2. Colour camera: Colour CCTV camera gives colour output of the video signal. They are widely used but cannot provide usable video output in low light conditions. 3. Day & Night camera: Day & Night CCTV camera provides both colour and black and white output based on the light conditions. Normally colour output from the camera is available and during low light conditions, the video output is given in B & W format. D & N camera ensures reliable video output at all times. B & W, Colour, and D & N camera is available in all Analog, AHD, and IP technologies. Classification based on the viewing of the camera: 1.
Fixed: Here the camera view is fixed at a particular area. There are different types of fixed cameras based on the constriction of the camera. 2. Box/ Full body cameras: Box camera is the most flexible type of camera. Here all the components – camera, lens, housing, and mounting are bought
separately and are assembled on site. As the lens is mounted separately to the camera, the right lens based on the application can be selected.
Bullet Camera: A bullet camera has the camera, lens, housing and mounting all pre-assembled in one unit. Cylindrical construction of earlier cameras gave the name bullet to such type of camera. Dome Camera: In a dome camera the camera is housed in a clear or tinted dome. It is mostly used for ceiling mounting applications. The lens in dome camera is pre-assembled as in the bullet camera
Speed Dome/ PTZ Camera: PTZ camera provides ability to capture video images from different areas around the camera. It is also known as 360 degree camera.
The viewing of different areas is made possible due to PAN, TILT and ZOOM functionality of the camera. Classification based on the area of use of the camera 1.
Indoor camera: Camera constructed for use in indoor location is called as indoor camera. 2. Outdoor camera: Camera having features for use in outdoor areas are called as outdoor camera. Outdoor camera is rated for outdoor use.