It's hard enough to find the right security camera without having to figure out what all the terms and abbreviations actually mean. If you're trying to learn about security cameras and getting frustrated by the number of terms that the average user doesn't know, here's a list of the ones you should know. There are a lot more, but this should be enough to get you started:
DVR: Digital Video Recorder, or 'personal video recorder.' A DVR is usually used to talk about a Security Camera System. It lets you record broadcasts on a hard disc drive so you can watch them later. TiVO is the most well-known type of DVR. They usually come with built-in features like motion detection, time and date stamping, and the ability to monitor the internet from afar.
Motion Detection: Many cameras and DVRs have sensors built in that can track movement safely.
When a DVR records the date and time of an event or recording, this is called "time and date stamping."
Remote Internet Monitoring means recording information with a camera like a Network IP Camera and being able to see that information live and in real time from a far away place.
PC: This term still means a personal computer.
PTZ stands for "Pan, Tilt, Zoom," which is how a controllable camera moves. The camera can move from left to right, up and down, and in and out of an object.
Infrared is a type of technology that uses heat sensors to find things around it. It was made so that it could "see" in the dark.
Network IP Camera: This is a type of camera that connects to the internet or a computer network through an IP address and can be viewed from different places.
Digital Recorder Card, or DVR Card. Provides digital video recording capability so
that you can store video files from your security or surveillance system on your PC.
The housing of a security camera is what you can see from the outside. It keeps the camera safe from the weather and other things that could hurt it.
Quad Processor: one computer with four processors
Multiplexer: The multiplexer takes several separate digital data streams and combines them into one data stream with a higher data rate. A multiplexer makes it easier to combine the data from several security cameras into a single stream of information. This system is a faster and better way to sort through information.
Multiple Output Power adaptor: A power adaptor that has more than one output and is useful for systems that need a lot of power.
Security camera systems is a general term for the packages that security companies often sell. Most of the time, they are a better deal than buying the items separately, and there are many different kinds to choose from. Most of the time, they come with a security camera, a processor, software, cables, a power adapter, a monitor, a VCR/DVR, and sometimes a warranty. This is one of the more basic kits. Kits that are more expensive often have more parts.
Dome Security Cameras: You can use dome security cameras at building entrances, stores, and shopping malls, or anywhere else you want a "fashionable" camera that fits in with its surroundings. Because it doesn't get in the way, a Dome Camera is more attractive and has a higher level of security than its cousins. It can also monitor more areas.
PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) and Controllable Cameras: PTZ and Controllable Cameras are made to be controlled by a remote or a DVR. They can go up and down, as well as to the right and left. You can move the camera around and zoom in or out. You have full control over these cameras, and they are great for security and keeping an eye on things.
Bullet security cameras are a type of small, sleek camera that works well both indoors and outdoors. They are completely weatherproof because they are sealed in cylinders and can't let water in. They can be mounted on the ceiling or the wall and give clear, detailed video images while keeping a low profile and a quiet presence.
Mini, Board, and Covert Cameras: Mini cameras are exactly what they sound like: small, tiny cameras that can be used for quieter security and come with wireless options. Board cameras are tiny mini-cameras that are housed in small, flat housing. They are also very useful in situations where more security is needed and there is very little light. A hidden camera does exactly what it sounds like it does. Covert cameras, like mini and board cameras, are made for people who need more security and a camera that doesn't stand out.
Pro Security Cameras: You can use professional security cameras for anything you want. They can be put up on brackets in the ceiling or on a wall. They can be put up indoors or outdoors. When it comes to the professional line of security cameras, they usually have a high resolution and clear, sharp images. You can get them in colour or in black and white, and SONY is one of the better brands.
Infrared Security Cameras: Infrared security cameras are made to give you the best protection, especially at night. With an infrared security camera, you can see in complete darkness. These are great cameras for areas with very little or no light.
