A closed circuit TV (CCTV) system is one that uses video cameras to transmit pictures to TV monitors in a limited area, such as a building, a group of buildings, or a single room within a building. This is different from the signals transmitted over the airwaves that any member of the general public can receive simply by turning on his or her own television. Closed circuit TV can be used for security purposes- to catch would- be criminals before they can commit their crimes (or catch the culprit after the fact). Industrial enterprises may also use video cameras to detect conditions that may be potentially dangerous to company personnel. Highway patrol also uses CCTV to monitor traffic activity. This article will tell how to install a CCTV system.

Installation is much easier today than it was in the past; almost anyone can do it. When CCTV first came into general use, during the 1970s, its installation required the help of a trained technician. Now only a few steps are required.

You will have to figure out a number of things before you install the system. How many cameras will you need? Where will each one of them be? Naturally you will want to give priority to areas that need to be guarded most closely, such as the entrances and places where valuable items like jewelry are stored. And the cameras should be as inconspicuous as possible, in places where it is not easy to tamper with them- although it might actually be better to make them more conspicuous so as to deter burglars (and also put up a sign- see below). And there should be as much lighting as possible in the area to be monitored by each camera.

Where the system will be plugged into is another important question to consider. The outlet should be in an inconspicuous place to prevent people from unplugging it to avoid being monitored.

First, prepare the areas of the wall where the cameras will be placed. Drill holes and screw the mounting brackets in. Then use clips to attach each camera to its bracket. Some systems use panning cameras, which are capable of moving horizontally. If your system uses those, be sure and place each camera in such a way that it can rotate as widely as it is meant to. Attach the wiring to the walls, leaving as little of it loose and exposed as possible. Finally, plug the system into the monitor, switch it on, and install the necessary software. Also set up the DVR.

You may decide that you want to use the Internet to monitor your system. In that case, obtain a static IP address from your provider, and install the necessary software.

The equipment should be maintained so it remains in working order. Clean the lenses and the cables regularly with distilled alcohol, and use pliers to twist the coaxial cable (clockwise) to tighten it.

It is also a good idea to set up a sign warning potential intruders that the premises are under surveillance.

Author Bio: Edward Kendricks writes for CTS (www.cts-networks.co.uk), a UK CCTV company.

Category: Advice
Keywords: cctv, security, safety, protection, cameras, security cameras, burglary