Surveillance cameras
CCTV cameras are one of the most common and recognizable technologies used to watch us go about our daily lives. Camera networks are installed by government agencies and local businesses, but the distinction is blurring with the development of real-time crime centers that access public and private video feeds. Camera technology is improving: some cameras are capable of 360-degree video or infrared vision.Some models can be equipped with real-time facial recognition or license plate recognition software. Because many of them connect directly to the Internet, camera networks have also proven easy targets for malicious attackers.
Knowing the types of cameras
Here is a visual guide to some of the types of surveillance cameras you may encounter on a daily basis. This is not an exhaustive list and it is important to note that some cameras may have multiple features described below.
Cylindrical Bullet CCTV camera
Bullet cameras are compact and tubular. The camera, lens and housing are all placed in a cylindrical body. These cameras are oriented in one direction and sometimes have an infrared LED for use in low light. Bullet cameras are used both indoors and outdoors.
One type of waterproof security camera is the bolt camera. Bolt CCTV cameras are called this because of their appearance, which are often cylindrical. Bullet means bullet or tube. In most cases, the Bolt CCTV camera is used outdoors, but it can also be installed indoors. Bullet camera or bolt camera also means the same bolt camera.
Dome cameras
Dome cameras are commonly used for indoor surveillance and are often mounted on the ceiling. The dome shape of the camera is designed in such a way that it is difficult to distinguish the direction of the camera. Dome cameras come with many optional features. Some have infrared light for night vision, some have tamper-resistant features, and some have varifocal lenses that allow operators to adjust the focal length of the camera lens.
PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) cameras
Most CCTV cameras are fixed cameras – pointing in one direction only. PTZ cameras are remotely controlled and allow the operator to pan (move left or right), tilt up or down, or zoom in or out to follow people as they move. This allows operators to zoom in on specific areas or track specific movements. Cameras can also run patterns or turn to a preset position.
Mobile observation towers/poles
Not all CCTV cameras are fixed. Law enforcement agencies often purchase mobile surveillance units such as manned towers that can be raised 25 feet in the air and unmanned trailers that can extend a pole with PTZ cameras in all directions. These systems are often used to create situational awareness at public events and in high-traffic business areas.
Thermal cameras
Most videos capture images in natural light or in the infrared spectrum. Thermal cameras can also record a person’s movements based on body temperature. These cameras are not always distinguishable from regular security cameras, however the FLIR brand is often an indication that the camera is capable of thermal imaging.
Automatic license plate readers
Automatic license plate readers (ALPR) are computer-controlled camera systems that capture license plate numbers as well as photographs of vehicles and sometimes drivers and passengers. ALPR cameras include fixed cameras that are often mounted on traffic lights, telephone poles, or other locations. They also include mobile cameras that are usually attached to police patrol cars. Some agencies have mobile ALPR trailers that can be moved to desired locations.
