Here at CCTV Security Pros, we’ve been providing security cameras and systems to Fortune 500 companies, universities, government agencies, and residential homes at more than 60,000 locations across the United States since 2008. If you ever find yourself wondering where to buy the best CCTV security cameras and recording systems, how to power security cameras, or how to install wired security cameras, you’re in the right place.
HD Video is Superior
There’s no contest between HD video and older analog technology. HD video is much higher resolution and displays far better detail and clarity. In fact, you can expect our HD CCTV security cameras to be at least 3-5 times sharper than standard analog cameras. This is because HD cameras are measured in megapixels, far beyond what standard definition will get you.
Understanding Megapixels
Pixels are the individual blocks of color on a digital screen and a megapixel is one million pixels. 1-megapixel cameras can capture video at 720p resolution. 2-megapixel cameras capture video at 1080p, also called high-definition. A 4K Ultra HD CCTV security system requires 8-megapixel cameras.
The higher the resolution and megapixel count, the sharper the image. One great benefit of higher-definition cameras is that you can digitally zoom or ‘blow up’ an HD picture, and the integrity of the image will remain better intact rather than appearing pixelated or blurry like the older analog CCTV security cameras.
DVR vs. NVR
There are 2 types of HD CCTV security camera technologies; HD-over-Coax systems and IP-based systems. A recorder that supports HD over coaxial cable is called a digital video recorder (DVR). IP cameras connect to an (NVR) network video recorder using ethernet or network cable. At CCTV Security Pros, both DVR and NVR units provide the same essential functionality. Either can be used to view live or recorded video and also to view your cameras remotely on a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
One of the main differences for these CCTV security types is the type of cable used to connect the recorder and cameras of the CCTV security systems. Only HD over Coax recorders are backward compatible for older analog cameras. In other words, you can buy HD security cameras or use any existing analog cameras with our HD over Coax digital video recorders.
IP-Based (NVR) Systems
IP camera systems are the new industry standard. Our Network Video Recorders can display Ultra HD images up to 8mp or 4K. IP cameras are connected with CAT5, CAT5e, or CAT6 Ethernet cables. All of our IP cameras are PoE (Power over Ethernet) meaning that both power and video are transmitted over a single cable for very simple installation. Standard IP cameras can be run up to 325ft. Our CCTV security hardware includes repeaters and switches for customers who require further cabling. Some of our systems include “extended” PoE meaning that they can transmit both power and video over 800ft using a pure copper ethernet cable.
Green and Blue Line Systems
We offer 2 IP CCTV security system camera product lines; Green-line and Blue-line. Although these systems contain very similar features they are made by different manufacturers. We have been carrying our Blue-line of products since 2012. We introduced our Green-line in 2019. All of our Green-line systems offer extended PoE.
When you buy security cameras, just match the color of the CCTV security camera to the color of the system. Blue Line with Blue Line, Green Line with Green Line. That will guarantee compatibility.
NDAA Compliance
Many video surveillance systems are banned for government use. These banned products include components from named Chinese manufacturers listed in the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Our full line-up of SureVision™ (Green-line) professional-grade products that are all NDAA compliant and suitable for government use.
HD-Over-Coax (DVR) Systems
HD-over-Coax CCTV security cameras are connected using traditional coax cable with BNC video connectors. Our Digital Video Recorders can also produce ultra HD images up to 8mp or 4K and are also compatible with older analog cameras. The most common type of cable used is RG59 Siamese cable. The term Siamese means there are 2 cables (power and video) running side by side that can be pulled apart. This is important because HD over Coax cameras are not powered from the recorder. Rather, HD over Coax cameras can be powered using an individual power adapter or multiple output power when running multiple cameras.
HD-over-Coax CCTV security systems are extremely beneficial in locations with existing analog infrastructure in place. You can use the same older cable when buying new HD cameras and recorders. Another benefit of HD over Coax is that video can be transmitted well over a 1000ft distance. Our digital video recorders support all of the current HD over coax technologies.
Cameras of all Styles
We carry many different styles of cameras in sets of complete CCTV security systems. A lot of people like bullet-style cameras due to their sleek housing. Other people prefer dome-style cameras for their discreet, low profile, and vandal-proof design. A large majority of the cameras we offer are fully weatherproof for indoor or outdoor use. The size of the camera lens will determine its viewing angle. Our widest lens size is 2.8mm and will produce a 110 degree super wide-angle which is good for covering the entire immediate perimeter. A popular 3.6mm lens will display a 90-degree wide-angle.
Wide Angle Advantages
Customers like wide-angle CCTV security cameras because they offer the most “bang for the buck”. However, if you need to focus on an object that is much further away then you will require a more powerful lens such as 8mm, 12mm, or even a 50mm or 100mm lens for a good close up video of objects that are over 100ft or even 200ft away. Many of these cameras offer a varifocal lens that you can adjust to achieve the perfect angle. Better yet, many of the varifocal cameras have a motorized lens so you can simply adjust the angle directly from your recorder or remote device.
Compromising for Optimal Image
There is always going to be a compromise between the width of the angle and the distance you can see. The perfect solution may sometimes be a combination of wide-angle and varifocal cameras. You can place each at different points on your property to create a comprehensive CCTV security system. You can buy security cameras separately, or as part of a complete CCTV security system bundle.
Wireless Camera Systems
Wireless IP camera systems have also become popular with the release of the many consumer WiFi gadgets available today. These cameras are often limited in terms of selection, clarity, reliability, and function. It is important to understand that the term wireless mainly applies to video transmission. Many of these consumer devices are battery-powered. We do not offer battery-powered cameras because they need to be recharged, making them less reliable. If you operate a business, it’s much better to buy a professional CCTV security system.
Powering Wireless Cameras
Some wireless cameras require separate power although it may be somewhat uncommon for a power outlet to be located in the same location where the camera will be mounted. Another consideration is that wireless cameras can be subject to interference or loss of WiFi signal. We recommend hardwired cameras for applications with further distances or structures that may prohibit an adequate WiFi signal.
Storing Video Footage
Another consideration when designing a video monitoring solution is storage. Most customers want to store their captured video footage for 7-10 days. All of our video recorders have internal hard drives inside the units where the CCTV security video is stored. We only use surveillance-grade hard drives for the best durability. The higher-resolution cameras will require more storage simply because they consume more data. This is why we offer customers the ability to increase the size of their hard drives to meet their exact storage needs.
Motion-detection Recording
Many customers who buy our CCTV security system cameras set them to record only when motion is detected to save hard drive space. You can even get fever detection with the right tools. For example, a 4-camera HD recorder with a 1TB hard drive can record continuous video at 4mp for up to 7 days. If the same recorder is set only to record on motion or on a schedule, the storage time will increase very significantly. Some lesser expensive recorders only have space for a single hard drive. Many of the units we carry have multiple hard drive bays to accommodate more video storage if and when required.
Order With CCTV Security Pros
Installing a CCTV security camera system is most effective when it’s done correctly. We’re a proven industry leader with over 60,000+ customers specializing in professional-grade HD security cameras and systems. We manufacture the highest quality products and sell them at very competitive prices. If you were asking yourself how to get the best CCTV surveillance cameras, how to power outdoor security camera systems, or how to install wired security cameras, hopefully, we’ve given you the proper info to get started. But our team is ready to provide support or answer your further questions. Give us a call at 888-653-2288.
Amazing, Always-Available Assistance
We can assist you through every step of your CCTV security project no matter how large or small. Everything is in stock and available for fast shipping. We offer free shipping on all orders over $100. All of the products we carry include a full 3-year warranty. Every purchase includes a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee.
At CCTV Security Pros, we sell more than just CCTV security systems, we provide complete security camera solutions!
Are you looking to buy security cameras? Order online 24/7 or call our sales representatives at 888-653-2288, and take your security to the next level thanks to CCTV Security Pros.