How we supply it: CCTV systems are arranged through a partner security installer who surveys, quotes, installs and bills them and pays us a referral commission. Mark camera points on your electrical drawing early, so conduits go in before plastering and the installer only pulls cable at the end.
In one line: A CCTV system is a set of cameras that record to a recorder on site, an NVR for IP cameras or a DVR for analog cameras, with live and recorded video viewable on a screen or phone.
IP or HD analog?
| Point | IP system | HD analog system |
|---|---|---|
| Recorder | NVR | DVR |
| Cable | One network cable with PoE power | Coaxial cable plus separate power |
| Picture | Typically higher resolutions | Good at common resolutions |
| Phone viewing and features | Easier, smarter | Basic |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | New houses | Upgrades reusing coaxial cable |
What a CCTV system includes
A CCTV system is a set of cameras that record to a recorder on site, an NVR for IP cameras or a DVR for analog cameras, with live and recorded video viewable on a screen or phone.
The recorder and its hard disk are as important as the cameras. If someone can walk away with the recorder, the footage goes with it.
Camera types
| Camera | Shape | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet | Cylindrical, visible | Gate, compound, parking |
| Dome | Compact, vandal-resistant | Porch, staircase, indoors |
| Wi-Fi camera | Wireless, standalone | Where cable cannot run |
| PTZ | Pan, tilt and zoom | Large compounds |
| Video door phone | Camera and intercom at the door | Seeing visitors before opening |
Camera count and placement
Recording days depend on resolution, compression (H.265 uses less storage than H.264), motion-only settings and disk size. Ask the installer to state the days of recording in writing.
- Start with the gate, the front door, the side or back passage and the parking area
- Add the staircase or terrace door if it is a separate entry
- Mount cameras about 2.5–3 m high, out of easy reach
- Avoid pointing cameras at the rising or setting sun
- Outdoor cameras rated IP66 or IP67
Checks after installation
- Outdoor cameras are marked IP66 or IP67.
- The recorder supports H.265 and has spare channels for more cameras.
- Night vision is tested after dark at every location.
- Default passwords are changed, firmware is updated, and remote access is under your own account.
- Recording days are checked after the first week.
Cabling and the recorder
- Lay conduits from each camera point to the recorder location before plastering.
- Put the recorder in a hidden, ventilated spot on the inverter circuit.
- Use outdoor-rated cable and leave drip loops at the cameras.
CCTV mistakes
- Cameras facing the sun, which washes out the picture.
- Wi-Fi cameras where a cable could have been run.
- The recorder in plain sight near the entrance.
- Default passwords left unchanged.
- No backup power for the recorder.