CCTV Cameras - The Online Security Specialist

Upgrade your existing security camera with a new CCTV camera from JMC Security. We stock a large range of traditional box, all-in-one, bullet, spy / hidden, dome and even ptz cameras at fantastic prices. We also offer a range of infrared cameras, night vision cameras and vandal proof cameras for those who want more from their home security cameras.

CCTV Cameras are becoming a familiar sight in today's society, more and more people are turning to camera surveillance to protect their belongings and loved ones. Hand in hand with a rise in demand comes the increased choice of cctv security camera, there are literally thousands of styles of cameras from hundreds of manufacturers. No need to panic, help is at hand. Although there are thousands of different cctv security cameras available the basics are always the same. So below we will go through what to look for in a surveillance camera and this should hopefully help you make the right choice for your security needs.

Outdoor Camera?

If the camera is going outdoors, you need to make sure that it is weatherproof. Outdoor cameras should have what is called an "IP" rating. This is a two digit number, I would recommend a minimum IP rating of 55 but ideally choose a camera with an IP rating of 65 or above. Check the specification sheet before buying, and make sure it states an IP rating, if not then you should presume it is not weatherproof and only intended for internal use.

Security Cameras Resolution

security cameras resolution is measured in TV lines (TVL), the higher the TVL the better quality image the camera will produce. As a guide, below 350 TVL is considered as low resolution, Between 351 to 450 TVL is considered Medium resolution and 451 TVL and above is considered a high resolution camera. We would advise a minimum of 420TVL in all circumstances, but the higher the better!

Night Vision Camera?

If your cctv home security needs to be able to see in low light conditions you will need to pay close attention to the "LUX" level. Every camera should list a Minimum Illumination level in its specifications, this is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX level the better it will see in low light conditions. Generally an infrared camera is capable of seeing in complete darkness but only for a certain distance which varies depending on how many infrared (IR) LEDs are fitted.

Installing a CCTV home security camera

Unless otherwise stated when you purchase a CCTV camera all you get is the camera, no cables or power supplies. So bear this in mind when buying. With that in mind most Cameras come fitted with two cables approximately 1 foot in length (this varies) with a BNC connection (for the video signal) and a Power Connection (Box CCTV Cameras, PTZ Cameras & Zoom CCTV Cameras do not always have this cable). You will then need to buy the appropriate cable and run it back to the recording unit or monitor. The easiest way is to buy "Plug & Play" cable which has both BNC & Power connectors and cables. You would then run this cable back to the recording unit and connect it via the BNC connector, also simply plug a power supply directly into the "plug & play" cable, with sufficient power to be able to run the camera.

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