|
Despite
these successes, the CCTV camera is still no substitute for the human
eye and those who do not recognise the limitations of this technology
will continue to be disillusioned.
Ensure
it meets your needs
It is
safe to assume that behind all the success stories a great deal of
careful thought and planning had taken place before CCTV was installed.
From the outset it is important to establish why the system is required
and what is expected from it.
There
are numerous examples of systems installed to monitor the movement of
both people and vehicles and then when an incident does occur, the
system is incapable of producing pictures that can provide positive
identification. As an example it is recommended that the view from the
camera should display a head-to-knees picture on screen if the system is
specifically required for identification purposes.
The
impact of digital
The
arrival of digital technology has resulted in cameras becoming much
smaller and more convenient to install, with the majority of users
favouring colour. However, monochrome cameras should still be considered
especially for situations where levels of light are extreme or there is
no particular requirement for colour. Much will depend upon the source
and level of light available at the site which in turn may need to be
upgraded if the system is to function effectively throughout the day and
at night.
Coupled
with separately installed detectors, cameras can be configured to remain
passive until a detector is activated thereby creating an on-site
recording of the activation or transmitting a signal to a remote
monitoring centre where the cause can be investigated and an appropriate
response provided.
Alternatively,
the system can provide continuous on-site recording with images only
being transmitted following the activation of a detector. Clearly, the
value of a CCTV system operating on an unmanned site will be that of a
deterrent if it does not transmit images to a remote monitoring centre.
Storing
images
At
present the weakest link in the CCTV system is the recording made by the
present generation of VCRs. However the development and availability of
digital video recorders at an affordable cost will ultimately provide a
much higher picture quality and much improved management of recorded
data.
Digital
recordings can now be stored on hard disks, although VCR manufacturers
are currently developing digital tape recorders to provide the same ease
of use as current VCRs.
Look
before you buy
For
those considering the installation of a CCTV system or an upgrade of an
existing system, the best advice is to adopt a ‘look before you buy’
policy.
Halon Bank
are able to provide a full on-site survey and demonstration without any
obligation. This will also include a free CCTV recording from the
recommended on-site camera positions plus expert advice and guidance
regarding the most suitable equipment available.
|
