cctv quick guide - reference

QUICK GUIDE TO CCTV SYSTEMS

May 1, 2008


CCTV System Design Basics

Find Out What the Application Requires

The best way to specify the equipment that will be needed for any

application, is to visit the site and determine the following:

1. How many cameras are needed?

Generally, the size of the area to be covered determines how

many cameras are needed. A typical small convenience store will

usually need 4 cameras for basic coverage of key areas. For

example, camera locations would include entrances, cash

registers, safes or any areas not easily observed. Key areas are

usually easily identified. Providing total video coverage of all

areas may require a larger system.

2. What kind of cameras should be selected?

a. Black & White (B/W) or Color?

Since cost is no longer a significant factor, color is almost always

chosen for all applications. B/W cameras are usually only

chosen for very low light or high resolution applications. DVR’s

allow for Color& B/W cameras to be installed in the same system.

b. Color or Day/Night cameras? (D/N)

Where light levels change drastically, a D/N camera is the proper

solution. D/N cameras automatically change from Color to B/W

when light levels drop below a certain level. If light levels are

extremely low or non-existent, a D/N camera will not solve the

problem. In this situation there are three options: install additional

lighting, infrared illuminators or cameras with built-in infrared

illuminators.

c. Resolution? (high or low)

Advances in imaging technology has lowered the cost of high

resolution cameras and increased their performance dramatically.

Always choose high resolution cameras whenever possible.

d. Wide Dynamic Range?

To clearly capture images which are surrounded by strong

backlight such as doorways etc. (see glossary)

CCTV Camera Styles:

•Cylinder style

•Fixed lens size normally

•Normally sealed units

•Indoor or outdoor use (check

weather rating)

•Some have IR LED’s for night

vision

Bullet

Cameras

•More video enhancement

features

•Indoor use

•Outdoor use only with

environment housing

•Lens is separate from camera

•Greater flexibility with vari-

focal lens

Standard

Box

Cameras

Dome

Cameras

•Indoor and outdoor models

•Low cost fixed lens models for

indoor applications

•Armored (vandal-resistant)

models available

•Vari-focal lens models are

available for greater flexibility

PTZ (Pan-

Tilt-Zoom

Cameras

•Indoor and outdoor models

•Permits a wide area coverage

•Remote control of camera

•Can be programmed to follow

a preset tour

•Ability to zoom in to target

2


CCTV System Design Basics cont’d.

3. What kind of lens should be chosen?

There are two types of lenses: fixed and vari-focal. Vari-focal lenses can be manually adjusted to achieve

a desired viewing angle, whereas fixed lenses have a set viewing angle. Smaller cameras such as mini

domes and bullet style models have a fixed lens and a fixed iris and are suitable for general viewing in

constant light conditions. These cameras are economical and are widely used in stores and restaurants.

For applications requiring more specific viewing angles it is best to choose a vari-focal lens either

integrated in a dome style camera or purchased separately to mount on a standard box camera. All vari-

focal lenses available today have an auto-iris function and are therefore suitable for use outdoors or

anywhere light levels fluctuate throughout the day.

4. Is recording required?

In virtually all security applications the client needs video “footage” to review after an incident has occurred.

Today’s digital video recorders (DVRs) are most often LINUX based and are available in 4, 8 or 16 camera

configurations and larger. Real time recording should be seriously considered since this type of system will

provide the maximum data for the client. Real time recording is the maximum amount of data that can be

recorded and is identified as 30 frames per second (fps) for each channel or camera. Real time recording

frame rates for 4, 8 and 16 channel are therefore 120 fps, 240 fps and 480 fps respectively. Slower frame

rates are available and are quite useful for some applications. The DVR will also require a normal VGA

computer control monitor. The DVR must have a CDRW, DVD burner, or a USB Port that supports flash

memory to transfer images when needed.

5. Is a public viewing monitor needed?

The primary purpose of the public viewing monitor is to make people aware of the video surveillance

system and thereby serve as a deterrent. They are usually installed in prominent locations in stores, banks

and similar locations. They are special LCD monitors that accept an analog signal (rather than digital) and

have BNC input and output connectors. They are much lighter and easier to install than traditional CCTV

monitors and have the looping feature enabling the installation of multiple monitors.

22.0'28.0'5.5'7.0'2.2'2.8'1.1'1.4'12˚16˚16.0 mm

30.0'38.0'7.5'9.5'3.0'3.8'1.5'1.9'16˚22˚12.0 mm

44.0'58.0'11.0'14.5'4.4'5.8'2.2'2.9'24˚32˚8.0mm

58.0'76.0'14.5'19.0'5.8'7.6'2.9'3.8'32˚42˚6.0mm

192.0'122.0'23.0'30.5'9.2'12.2'4.6'6.1'47˚63˚4.3mm

192.0'246.0'48.0'61.5'19.2'24.6'9.6'12.3'63˚10˚2.9mm

VHVHVHVHAngle (V)Angle (H)Lens Size

100'25'10'5'

DISTANCE FROM CAMERA

1/3” CCD FIELD OF VIEW CHART

3


CCTV System Design Basics cont’d.

5. What kind of power?

CCTV cameras are either 24V AC or 12V DC (some are both) and

will therefore require either AC or DC power. Individual plug-in

adaptors can be utilized, but it is strongly recommended that a

common power supply with multiple fused outputs be installed. If

you have a choice 24VDC is recommended.

6. What kind of video cables and connectors are needed?

Video systems use standard RG59/U coaxial cable-95% copper

shield. For longer runs (ie:750 feet or more), heavier gauge

RG6/U 95% copper shield cable is needed to ensure signal

strength. Siamese cable, which is a combined RG59U & LVT

can also be used, (see glossary). Runs over 1,500 feet may

require a video amplifier, which will increase the transmission of

the video signal by a factor of 3.

Video connectors for co-axial cable must be BNC type, of which

there are several styles. It is recommended that “compression“

or ”crimp- on” styles be used. ( BNC “twist-on” should not be

used as they very seldom make a perfect connection). Avoid any

video equipment that does not have BNC connectors. Improper

installation of connectors is the most common cause of system

failure. A proper co-ax cable stripper and crimping tool should be

used when installing connectors.

Power cable should be standard 2 conductor 18 gauge LVT.

Dome and bullet style cameras are fitted with a 2.1mm DC power

jack lead for use with a standard plug in adaptor. Do not cut this

lead to hard wire the camera. Instead, use a “flying lead”, which

has a 2.1mm plug on one end and two crimp ready connectors on

the other, for crimping to the 18/2 LVT.

CAT5 cable can be utilized instead of co-ax and LVT. This may

be a more desirable option. It is possibly a more cost effective

cabling solution (the cost of the baluns must be considered)

See article: Video, Power & Control www.muxlab.com

Common Power Supplies

A common CCTV power

supply provides multiple

fused power outputs for

CCTV systems. They are

available in either 24 V AC

or12 V DC configurations and

accommodate 4, 8,16 or 32

cameras. They are available

in several amperage outputs

to accommodate the draw

required by all cameras and

housings etc. in the system.

Since variations in current

will adversely affect video,

the best camera performance

is more easily achieved with

a common power supply.

Cameras can be damaged by

sudden power surges and will

be protected with a fused

common power supply.

“Home-running” cameras

to a common regulated

power source makes

system set-up and trouble

shooting much simpler.

The CCTV system can be

further secured by installing

a UPS (Uninterruptible Power

Source) device between the

main power supply and the

system. In the event of a

power failure, the UPS will

keep the system running for

a period of time (the length

of time varies by model).

Power failures can make

businesses easy targets for

criminals. Including a UPS

and will keep the system

running when it’s most

needed. For further details

refer to www.stealthlabs.com90’200’300’600’12 VDC/18-2

180’400’600’1,200’24 VAC/18-2

1 Amp450 Ma 300 Ma150 MaCamera Draws

4


Four camera system (4 channels):APPLICATIONS:

• Convenience Stores

• Gas Stations

• Restaurants/Drive Throughs

• Small Office/Warehouse

• Car Wash

• Small Retail

Description

For small applications, a basic 4 camera CCTV system should provide adequate coverage. Cameras should be selected based on the desired area to be viewed. (See Camera Selection page 2 for more information.)

The 4 channel DVR and control monitor are located in a secure location, usually a locked office or electrical room. The public view monitor should be installed in a prominent location where it can be easily seen by customers and employees.

DVRs provide a variety of outputs including; BNC ( public view monitor), and VGA for back-office video monitoring.

When designing a surveillance system, always consider

future camera growth. For example, a four camera system should be matched with an 8 Channel DVR .

For systems of 4 cameras or more, a dedicated CCTV power supply should be installed. (See Common Power Supplies for more information.)

Typical Convenience

Store Application

SYMBOLS LEGEND:

Standard (Box) Camera

Mini Dome Camera

Armor Dome Camera

Pan, Tilt, Zoom

(PTZ) Camera

Quad Splitter

Public Viewing

Monitor

DVR &

Control Monitor

Bullet Camera

(Cylinder Style)

Wireless Camera

Infrared Illuminator

5


Eight camera system (8 channels):

APPLICATIONS:

• Convenience Stores

• Gas Stations

• Small Restaurants

• Multi-Unit Residential

• Gravel/Aggregate Pits

• Drive-through

• Small Office/Warehouse

• Car Wash

• Small Retail

• Small Banks

• Automobile Dealerships

Typical Small Office/Warehouse

Application

Description

An 8 camera system may be suitable for both small applications where increased coverage is needed and slightly larger locations that need only basic surveillance. For gas stations with a convenience store, the 8 camera system is the logical choice allowing for 4 cameras in the store and 4 cameras mounted on the pump canopy. Always be aware of future expansion possibilities.

In the above application diagram, the small office/warehouse has an all weather vandal dome camera above the rear entrance and a PTZ camera providing side and front building coverage. PTZ control can be achieved with a separate controller or the DVR. If lighting is poor, then installation of additional lighting or infrared illuminators may be required.

The 8 channel DVR and control monitor are located in the office or electrical room. A public view monitor is optional for this type of application, but if needed, would be installed in the most prominent location.

Cameras are connected to the DVR using RG59/U video cable or CAT5 cable using video baluns. The DVR provides a spot monitor output (BNC} for connecting the public viewing monitor. For systems of 4 cameras or more, it is recommended that a dedicated Common Power Supply be installed. (See Common Power Supplies for more information.)

6


Sixteen camera system (16 channels):APPLICATIONS:

• Lumber Mills

• Manufacturing Plants

• Petrochemical Plants

• Big Box Retail Stores

• Warehouse/Distribution

• Port Facilities

• Airports

• Office Buildings

• Condominium Complexes

• Recreation Complexes

• Large Restaurants

• Mines & Smelters

• Banks

Description

Large applications normally require at least 16 cameras. Such systems often combine a series of indoor and outdoor fixed cameras with several PTZ units for coverage of large outdoor areas. It is not unusual for large systems to require other specialty equipment such as infra red illuminators or wireless camera links. If more than 16 cameras are required, it is best to install a second DVR (4,8 or 16 Channels)

In the above application, lighting was a major consideration for outdoor cameras so infrared illuminators were installed. Because there is a rail track between the camera and main building, a wireless video

system was chosen as an alternative to trenching under the rail track.

The 16 channel DVR and control monitor are located in the central monitoring location or security office. Cameras are connected to the DVR using RG59/U video cable (or CAT5 cable using video baluns). The DVR provides a monitor output for connecting the public viewing monitor. For systems larger than 4 cameras, a dedicated Common Power Supply for the cameras is a necessity. This is particularly true in large plants which may be supplied with multi-phase power. Be sure to note total power requirements

for all cameras before selecting the power supply. (See Common Power Supplies for more information.)

Typical Large Retail/Lumber

Yard Application

Parking Lot

7


Special CCTV Applications:

Single Camera Wireless Solution (No recording)

Wireless Receiver

Wireless Camera transmits video signal to receiver unit connected to viewing monitor.

Quad Splitter with DVR for Public Viewing of selected cameras only

All cameras connect to DVR. Selected cameras are connected to quad via looping DVR outputs. Quad outputs four camera display to one or more public viewing monitors.

Multiple Camera Wireless Link combined with hardwired system

Allows remote site to be connected to main CCTV system via wireless link. Wireless receiver outputs are connected to DVR.

PTZ Installation with Manual Controller and DVR Recording

Allows PTZ to be operator controlled independently from the DVR. All PTZ video is still recorded at DVR.

Keyboard controller

8

(1 link per camera)

AC adaptor

Also called a power supply, plugs in to a standard wall outlet to provide 12 volt DC or 24 volt AC power for cameras and other low voltage devices.

Alarm input

An input connection to a DVR that triggers the unit to start recording.

Analog

There are two main methods to transmit video; analog or digital. Most cameras used in CCTV applications are analog. CRT monitors switchers, multiplexers and quads also are analog devices.

Aperture (iris)A device in a lens which controls the amount of light to be let into the camera. The size of the aperture is controlled by manually adjusting the iris. By increasing the f stop number (f1.4, f1.8, f2.8, etc.) less light is permitted to pass into the camera. ( see AUTO IRIS)

AudioMost DVRs support audio and can be configured with microphones.

Electronic shutterThe ability of the camera to compensate for moderate light changes in indoor applications without the use of auto iris lenses

Auto IrisAuto Iris Lenses adjust for changing light conditions. If the amount of light increases, the lens will electronically reduce the aperture size so the picture remains clear. Required for all outdoor applications.

BalunA device that is installed on both ends of Cat 5e cable that allows for the transmission of cable

CCDStands for "charge-coupled device“ and is the image capture device in CCTV cameras. The size of the CCD chip is normally 1/4“ or 1/3".

Coaxial CableCc-axial cable is used to transmit video signals for CCTV systems, A video signal can be transmitted reliably up to750 ft on RG59U Cable and up to1500 ft on RG6U cable, assuming the only connections are at the camera and DVR. Always use 95% copper shielded cable.

Compression

Compression techniques are used in Digital CCTV to reduce the file sizes of recorded video images which conserves hard drive space and allows for efficient remote transmission of images. Typical compression formats used for video include MPEG-4 & H.264.


Basic CCTV Terminology: Covert Cameras

Cameras that are concealed within special housings such as smoke detectors or otherwise hidden from view.

Day Night CameraA "Day/Night Camera” has a very sensitive CCD chip that enables images to be captured in very low ambient lighting (regular lighting - not infrared).

Digital Video Recorder [DVR]

A digital video recorder is basically a computer that converts the incoming camera (analog) signal to digital, compresses it, and stores it on a hard drive. The DVR replaces the function of a multiplexer and a security VCR. DVRs offer many features that were previously unavailable with analog only systems.

Dome CameraA type of camera with dome cover. They may have fixed or vari-focal lenses. Some come with infrared lighting and some are designed to be tamper-proof (also referred to as vandal-resistant). Armor dome cameras are designed to resist vandalism by using a hi-impact reinforced polycarbonate dome casing.

Field Of ViewThe view ( width & height) that the lens captures and displays. See lens chart.

Frame Rate (Frames Per Second) (FPS)

Digital recorders are often specified by their total frame rate, i.e. the maximum numbers of frames the unit can record in one second over all channels. Real time recording for 1 camera is 30 FPS. Therefore a 16 channel real time DVR would be capable of recording 480 FPS. DVRs are available with lower frame rates.

Infrared (IR) illuminationInfrared cameras or dedicated infrared illuminators use special infrared LED’s to project IR light, which enables an IR sensitive camera to capture good quality video, in extreme low light conditions.

IP Rating

Ingress Protection Scale - 2 numbers indicating the protection level provided by an outside enclosure against water - e.g. IP66 protected against strong jets of water,IP67 protected from immersion to 1m.

Fixed LensMeans that the field of view is not adjustable. It is “ fixed” at a specific angle so you can view wide, standard or telephoto images. The focus of the captured image is achieved manually. There are many different lens sizes to choose from. (see vari-focal lens)

LoopingTerm referring to the passing of a video signal through one or more devices. The most common instance is the looping of a video signal through several CCTV monitors for multiple displays of the same camera array.

9


Basic CCTV Terminology (continued):

LUX

Used to specify how sensitive cameras are to light (measured in lumens/sq meter). e.g. a camera with a LUX Level of 0 can see in pitch black. The lower the LUX Level the better the camera will “see” in the dark.

MonitorSecurity monitors are used to display images from cameras (or captured on your recording device). There are two basic kinds used in CCTV applications. Analog or composite video monitors are used to display images in analog systems. LCD monitors with analog and VGA inputs are now available for use as public viewing or “spot” monitors or as DVR control monitors.

MonochromeThe technical term for black & white images.

Motion detectionRefers to the feature standard in most digital recorders where video is only recorded when there is a pixel change (i.e: something in the image moves or changes). This feature conserves hard drive space and saves time when searching through recorded data. The sensitivity can be adjusted to eliminate minor changes from being recorded.

NEMA ratingeg. Nema 4 enclosures intended to provide protection from windblown dust and rain, splashing water, hose directed water and formation of ice on the enclosure.

Outdoor housingA weatherproof enclosure, equipped with a fan and heater to protect a standard camera usually in an outdoor environment.

Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameraPTZ cameras allow you to adjust their position ('pan' is side-to-side, 'tilt' is up-and-down and zoom is field of view) .They are controlled by a separate control unit or from a DVR. Due to this added functionality, these cameras tend to cost more than non-PTZ cameras

Quad Splitter

An analog device used to display 4 cameras simultaneously on a single monitor. Some are available with looping outputs for system flexibility.

Remote Client Software

Software that is supplied with the DVR to enable monitoring at an “off premises” location.

Remote surveillance

The ability to view cameras from a remote location. Information is transmitted from the DVR by the internet.

ResolutionRefers to how much detail can be captured on a camera then displayed on a monitor. Medium resolution cameras typically capture about 380 horizontal lines of resolution. High resolution cameras can capture 500 lines of resolution or more. The higher the resolution, the more detail in a picture.

Siamese cableA cable that combines LVT power and video cable. Use this type of cable when you are using a common power supply. Check the draw required for each camera as the video distance may exceed the power capabilities.

Vari- focal lensA camera lens in which the field of view and focus is not fixed, they are manually adjusted at time of installation.

Video inputA connector (usually a BNC style) at a PTZ controller, monitor, quad splitter, multiplexer or recording device that you can plug in a video cable.

WeatherproofA device that is weatherproof can be installed outside and stand up to limited weather conditions and temperatures. However, it does not mean that it is waterproof. (see IP RATING)

Wireless camera

Wireless cameras allow the transmission of video to a receiver without having to run video cable. Power is needed at both the camera and receiver locations.

Wide Dynamic Range

A WDR security camera (Wide Dynamic Range) is used for capturing clear images of objects surrounded by a strong back light, while still keeping the background visible. The Dynamic Range is the difference between the maximum acceptable signal level and the minimum acceptable signal level. Therefore a WDR camera is capable of processing signals that vary over a wide range.

Zoom LensThe image can be 'zoomed' in or out while the view of the cameraremains in focus. Seldom used in CCTV systems other than in a PTZ camera. Not to be confused with a vari-focal lens.

10

Digital Video Recorders

DVRE-12004RT-250

DVRE-24008RT-250

DVRE-48016RT-500

Monitors

LCDI-040

LCDI-05.6

LCDI-070

LCDI-010

LCDI-015

Standard (Box) Cameras

CB-05

CC-06H

CC-12DNH

CC-14WDR

Bullet Style Cameras

CB-01 Series

CC-02 Series

Indoor Dome Cameras

CC-32DN

CC-2449VF3

CC-2457VF3

Vandal Dome Cameras

Pan, Tilt, Zoom Cameras

WPT-48022

WPT-48023EX

WPT-48036EXD

Quad Splitters

QS-C-02


OptiGuard Part Numbers by Equipment Type

Wireless Cameras

ZX-480SR40

ZX-520SR40

Wireless Transmitters

& Receivers

RT-WAVE

TCO-5808Q4

Infrared Illuminators

CSI Series

Specialized CCTV Housings

EXHC-EXHD

EXPTC

NXW

11

LCDI-017

LCDI-019

LCDI-021

LCDI-023

VD-540NDV


Contact OptiGuard:

CCTV Training Sources and Literature:

Canada:

~ CANASA

www.canasa.org

United States:

~ LTC Training Center

www.ltctrainingcntr.com

~The Security Industry

Association

www.siaonline.org

~STAM Multimedia

www.stamweb.com

~ASIS International

www.asisonline.org

~New York Burglar and Fire

Association

www.nybfa.org

~National burglar and Fire

Alarm Association

www.alarm.org

About OptiGuard Security Systems Inc

Canadian Office:OPTIGUARD SECURITY SYSTEMS INC109 - 2799 Gilmore AvenueBurnaby, BC, Canada V5C 6S5Toll Free: 1-888-FOR-CCTV (1-888-367-2288)Tel: 1-604-682-2265Fax: [email protected]

Online:www.optiguardsys.com

12

Established in 1973, Vancouver based OptiGuard Security Systems specializes in providing the latest in closed circuit television equipment to wholesale clients worldwide. Our integrated analog, digital and web based video security solutions. As well as manufacturing several specialized CCTV cameras, OptiGuard distributes a broad range of CCTV and video surveillance products.

Put our combined 50 years of CCTV experience to work for you.

cctv quick guide - reference

Documents

common power supplies

wide dynamic range

public viewing monitor

common power supply

real time recording

digital video recorder

public view monitor

high resolution cameras