CCTV: Frequently Asked Questions

• If I buy a 4 channel DVR, do I have to have 4 cameras?
  No, you could have 1, 2, 3 or 4 cameras, it’s up to you.
• Can I use my existing television or PC monitor with your DVR'S?
  Yes, our DVR's are compatible with TV's, VGA Monitors and Dedicated CCTV Monitors. You may need a special cable if connecting to a TV or CCTV monitor which we can supply.
• What does TVL mean?
  In the context of a CCTV camera TVL (TV Lines) refers to the horizontal resolution (the maximum number of vertical lines the camera can resolve) of the CCTV camera.
• What does BNC stand for?
  BNC is a type of connector used extensively in CCTV. BNC stands for Bayonet-Neil-Concelman and is named after its designers.
• Are there any situations where the IR LEDs on a CCTV camera might not be effective?
  Yes. The camera makes use of the IR light being reflected back to it from the target. Hard surfaces reflect more light than softer surfaces and a prime example of a poor surface which does not reflect IR very well is grass.
• Are TV's as good as monitors?
  TV's are cheaper, there are more sold than monitors.  You also have a TV tuner in addition to the monitor.  TV's have audio and remote control. Monitors do have a better picture quality, especially if being used for high security applications.  If being used for general observation a TV will work fine.  It is worth noting that you normally cannot connect slave monitors to a TV.  They must be interlinked and the camera signal modulated (by using a TV RF modulator).
• What is a switcher?
  Used in multiple camera systems, these inexpensive units sequentially switch from camera to camera for single camera viewing on a video monitor. Only the actual camera image being viewed on the monitor can be recorded. These units usually allow a camera's picture to be sequenced, bypassed, or held.
• Will the Cameras plug into my TV or Video?
  The Camera output is (Composite Video), the same as the SCART input of your TV or VCR.
• Distance from TV or monitor?
  Cameras can work to 200 metres using normal cable.  Longer distances require drivers, etc. 100 metre cable can be provided.