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Dummy Guide

Purchasing the right CCTV system for your requirement can seem a daunting task. We have created this simple guide which will take you through the key decision making areas in simple steps, making your life easier.

Step 1: Planning you CCTV Installation

The first issue to address is working out the minimum quantity of cameras you need to secure your property or premises. There is no universal, ‘one size fits all’ solution to this problem. Every location is different, and for complex surveillance requirements, it is always useful to get the site professionally surveyed for a comprehensive solution. Generally speaking, we recommend a minimum of 3 cameras for small sites such as typical urban semi detached homes and small retail outlets. This will ensure that all critical angles are covered.

Once you know how many cameras you will be running on your surveillance system, the next step is to get the pictures from all cameras to display and record onto one screen or recording device.

Single Camera Installation Guide

The process for a single camera setup is straightforward.

Step 1 :	Position your Camera
Step 2 :	Run the video cable from the camera straight to the TV via the Time-lapse VCR

Step 3 :	Run power the camera with power adaptor

Multiple Camera System Installation Guide (Conventional Analogue System)

If you are using more than one camera in your CCTV setup, you will need a device to view and record all of the pictures. You can choose between a simple Switcher, a Quad, or Multiplexer-depending upon your requirements.

The procedure for multiple camera setup is as follows:

Step 1 :	Position your Camera
Step 2 :	Run the video cable from the cameras to the switcher / quad / multiplexer

Step 3 :	Connect the Switcher / Quad / Multiplexer to the TV via the Timelapse VC

Step 4 :	Run Power to the cameras with power adaptors

Step 2: Choose your camera

Internal External:

CCTV cameras come in a number of different types; however the first point of distinction would be the location of the camera, indoors or outdoors.

Find out more ...

Colour/Monochrome:

Although outdated in televisions, black and white continues to be an option available in CCTV cameras.

Find out more ...

Day/Night:

These cameras have built in LEDs that provide Infra Red illumination when light levels drop below a certain level.

Find out more ...

Finally, when choosing your camera, you will need to know the right camera resolution and lens size for your requirements.

	Camera Resolution Guide	Lens Guide

Conventional (Analogue) Setup

'OR'

DVR (Digital) Setup


	STEP 3: CHOOSE YOUR CONTROL UNIT

	If your are looking to setup more than one camera in your complete CCTV System now or in the future then you will require a controlling unit in order to rotate / split the video image on a screen. The Video signal cables from all your cameras will input into the back of a controller unit and the controller unit itself is usually connected to a TV / monitor via a VCR or PC... To learn what the differences are between all the controller units please click on a link:

	Switcher / Quad / Multiplexer


	STEP 3: CHOOSE A DVR SYSTEM

	The DVR route is the best setup to choose as it is the way forward and works out to be the most cost effective route in the long run. With a DVR system you can view your cameras from anywhere in the world! You can also either install a DVR card in to your existing computer or purchase a dedicated DVR system.

		Find out more ...


	STEP 4: CHOOSE YOUR DISPLAY MONITOR / LCD

	Using a standard TV is possible, however most installers opt for a dedicated monitor or LCD Screen. A new trend for DVRs is to use a TFT screen via the VGA Out port on the back of the DVR.

	View our range of Monitors and LCD's .


	STEP 5: CHOOSE YOUR RECORDING EQUIPMENT

	Using your existing Video Recorder is probably the most economical idea, however you will need to purchase a date and time generating unit (which we also stock). If you do wish to purchase a new Time-lapse video recorder then check out our range

		Time Lapes Videos

FINAL STEP: CHOOSE YOUR ACCESSORIES

You will require video cable and a power supply for each camera, in order to complete your basic setup. Further options are available to fine tune your setup to your specific requirments.