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They are present in shopping malls, banks and streets, but they are much more than just video surveillance cameras. Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems play a crucial role in the security and operations of numerous businesses, large and small. Moreover, thanks to technological advances and the integration of artificial intelligence in these systems, their role is becoming increasingly important.

In this article we tell you everything there is behind a CCTV system: from the elements that compose it to its key functions, which can transform the management of any business.

What is CCTV and what does it mean?

We’ll start by answering a question you may have asked yourself: what is CCTV?

The acronym CCTV refers to Closed Circuit Television, which in our language we translate as Closed Circuit Television. It is a surveillance system that, by means of different video cameras, transmits real-time signals to a specific set of monitors.

Unlike traditional television, which is broadcast openly to the public, a CCTV operates as a closed system, because only certain authorized persons can view the images captured by the cameras.

Hence, its main use is for surveillance in private properties, establishments, offices, factories and public areas that require constant monitoring and a solid security strategy.

What is CCTV for?

As we mentioned, security is one of the main applications of any CCTV. After all, it allows us to control a specific area in real time. This serves to prevent crimes, record evidence in case they are committed, control access or corroborate that security regulations are being complied with, among other functionalities.

But there are many more: beyond security, a CCTV system can be useful for monitoring logistics processes, controlling industrial operations, managing vehicle fleets, and even analyzing customer behavior patterns in the retail sector and using that data to improve a business’s decision making.

What types of CCTV are there?

We could mainly distinguish between two types of CCTV:

• Analogs

• Digital or IP

IP equipment is, of course, the most up-to-date on the market. Thanks to new technologies applied in CCTV systems, they now offer high resolution, can create automated alerts and provide the possibility of cloud storage.

As a result, security operators can optimise the time they spend on surveillance and significantly increase their productivity.

By the way, in addition to already having the characteristic AI machine learning, today’s CCTVs also incorporate tools for Big Datatools, which provide these systems with Business Intelligence.

Monitors

On the other hand, any CCTV requires an image display system. This system is made up of monitors, which allow us to play back recordings or see in real time what the cameras capture.

It is important that the monitors provide optimum resolution to ensure that even the smallest details captured by the optics and cameras are visible.

Switches

Switches are the devices that connect all system components within the same CCTV network, facilitating communication and data exchange between cameras and monitors.

These switches are essential for handling and prioritizing data traffic and, above all, for maintaining the quality and efficiency of your system.

Transmission systems

Transmission systems are used to send the video data from the cameras to the display and storage devices. They are therefore essential for efficient distribution.

These comprise not only the network infrastructure, which connects cameras, monitors and recording equipment, but also the protocols and technologies used to ensure that transmission is fast and secure.

Recording equipment

Recording equipment in an IP digital CCTV, such as network video recorders (NVRs), are responsible for storing and managing all your recordings.

These devices also include video management software (VMS) for image management, which offers analysis tools and can be integrated with the rest of your company’s security systems, enabling centralized management. That is why it is so important that you are clear about how to choose a VMS!

If you have come this far, you already know the components of a CCTV system and its multiple functionalities. In case you need to implement a CCTV in your business, SCATI can help you with comprehensive and very effective solutions. This is the case of SCATI Mobile Pro, a perfect CCTV to face the challenges of modern mobility.

Finding a surveillance camera adapted for your company’s security needs is certainly not an easy task. There are many different types of surveillance cameras on the market, each with its own advantages, features and specific applications.

Moreover, innovation in this sector is constant, so in recent years the options have multiplied exponentially. From hybrid cameras to advanced intelligent video surveillance systems, they are now more varied and sophisticated than ever.

At SCATI we want to help you in your choice, that is why we have prepared this complete guide with all the types of surveillance cameras that exist. If you want to protect your business in a comprehensive way, we recommend you to stay and discover them.

Features of a surveillance camera

As we have been saying, modern technology has transformed video surveillance. Nowadays, all IP cameras are equipped with advanced features, which allow us to ensure the security and effective monitoring of any space.

If you are considering incorporating a new surveillance system into your business, it is first essential that you understand the distinctive features and advantages that each type of camera can bring to your business.

Intelligent cameras with video analysis

Today, there are smart cameras on the market that offer analytical functionalities that go beyond simple video recording.

These types of cameras, which we work at SCATI in the Intelligent series, can identify faces, manage gauges, read license plates, detect specific or unusual movements and send you real-time alerts in case of any suspicion or sign of danger.

If you need a proactive and personalized level of security in your business, they are made for you. By the way, not only are they effective in increasing security, the use of Big Data and Business Intelligence tools can be very useful for making sound business decisions. Keep it in mind!

4K cameras

If you are most concerned about image quality, 4K security cameras are of interest to you.

Of course, 4K recording will give you unsurpassed image quality, making it possible to clearly identify people and objects even at great distances.

Its ultra-high definition resolution is ideal for those large areas where details can be crucial in the identification and analysis of certain situations.

Pinhole cameras

Sometimes space is limited, so pinhole cameras are the best choice for protecting installations such as an ATM for the purpose of fraud prevention.

Compact cameras

Don’t want the presence of the cameras to be too noticeable? In that case you will need compact cameras, with a simple, unobtrusive design and easy installation.

Some of the types of compact cameras we have already mentioned, such as pinhole cameras, which are so small as to be unnoticeable, but just as robust as the others. There are also minidome cameras, which are ideal for discreet surveillance, i.e., to monitor spaces without altering their aesthetics or attracting anyone’s attention.

Panoramic cameras

Panoramic cameras offer an extended field of view. Thanks to its dewarping technology, we can cover very large areas without using several devices. One of these cameras is enough!

Do you need to monitor open spaces, and want to have a complete view without blind spots? In that case we recommend any of our panoramic camera options.

Ultra-rugged cameras

When business environments are demanding, cameras should be designed and prepared to withstand extreme conditions, such as very high or rather too low temperatures, dust or high levels of contamination.

For such cases there are ultra-resistant cameras, which guarantee reliable surveillance in any situation. With them, your business will be protected at all times. All the ones we work with at SCATI can boast of their weather resistance, so you can rest assured in this regard.

Benefits for your business

You already know the types of surveillance cameras and their features, but you should also know that they have many more benefits than most people think.

The implementation of a suitable surveillance camera system can allow you to:

• Improve the security of the business by reducing the risk of crime and deterring criminal acts.
• Increase the overall protection of your business, thanks to the integration with other security systems.
• Optimize the management of your company’s resources. 
• Gain valuable insights into the behavior of your customers and employees to improve customer experience and efficiency.
• To have forensic evidence for investigations or legal proceedings in the event of any incident.
• Improve productivity and ensure compliance with protocols.
• Easily adapt to the ever-increasing security needs of every business.

Need help choosing the right surveillance camera? At SCATI we not only offer you that camera, but a complete security solution for your company.