AC - Refers to alternating current electricity. 110 volts AC is the type of electricity most often found in home and office electrical outlets in the United States. Outside the U.S. many countries have standard outlet voltage of 220 ~ 240 volts AC. In addition, many CCTV products use 24 volts AC, for which a separate power transformer is required.
AC/DC - Refers to changing between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). Switching from AC power from your home or office outlet to DC current is required for most of our products. A transformer can easily be used to regulate the current; for this reason, we include AC/DC power supplies with almost all of our products. There are also power inverters which convert DC current to AC current. Such power inverters are commonly used to power 110 volt AC devices (such as a VCR video recorder) from a DC automotive or marine battery.
Alarm/Event Operation - Is a feature found in many CCTV video recording devices like VCRs and DVRs. This allows the user to interface alarm sensors (like a PIR motion detector) with the recording device through an alarm in/out port (this port has a physical electrical contact). An alarm/event capable recorder can then be set to automatically start and stop recording when the alarm is triggered (such as by motion). However, the digital revolution is replacing the need for bulky and expensive alarm sensors. Many newer digital DVR recorders feature advanced video motion detection, which can provide dynamic motion detection recording with built-in software alone.
Amps (A) - Are used to measure electrical current consumption. 1 amp (A) = 1000 milliamps (mA).
Amplifier - Typically refers to a device which adds strength to a signal for a 'better' and / or longer performance ability. Amplifiers can be found for both wired and wireless equipment. A VDA (video distribution amplifier) is designed to extend a video signal through wires by boosting the power of the video signal.
Analog - Indicates a particular electrical signal which conveys electronic data (i.e. a video signal or audio signal). Information carried over an analog signal is a representation of data by continuously varying quantities. An analog electrical signal has a different value of volts or amperes for electrical representation of the original excitement (light, sound, etc.) within a dynamic range specific to the analog device.
Antenna Element - Antennas for wireless equipment are constructed of elements which are specifically tuned to a given frequency or range of frequency to improve gain.
Antenna Gain - Refers to any increase or decrease in the strength of a wireless RF radio frequency signal when considering external antenna equipment. Gain is typically measured in terms of decibels (dB) or a number of times of magnification
Aperture - Of a lens on a video camera controls the amount of light which is allowed to reach the image sensor. Aperture is listed in terms of an F-stop number. As F-stop number increases (i.e. F/1.4, F/1.8, F/2.8), the amount of light permitted to reach the image sensor decreases.
Aspect Ratio - Is a specification for monitors. This term refers to the ratio between the width and height of a video image. Typically, CCTV cameras produce an aspect ratio of 4:3 (the vertical size of the picture is 75% of the horizontal width). This is the same ratio for compatibility with standard consumer televisions and video equipment as well as security-industry monitors and video recorders. Widescreen televisions, on the other hand, have a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) - Is a built-in feature of every camera found on AutomatedSurveillance.com. This term refers to a circuit within the camera which regulates image brightness levels for optimum performance and highest video quality.
Automatic Light Control (ALC) - Is a built-in feature of every camera found on AutomatedSurveillance.com. ALC indicates the image sensor's ability to automatically adjust in diverse lighting conditions to yield the most vivid video image possible.
Auto-Iris Lens - Is a lens with a built-in method of automatically controlling the lens aperture for the best video quality under diverse and changing lighting conditions. Auto-iris lenses can be especially helpful under very low light and bright direct forward light. In order to use an auto-iris lens, however, the video camera you are using must have a built-in auto-iris port to supply the lens with a small amount of DC electrical voltage. Manual iris lenses are also available and do not require any special ports or cable connections.
BNC - Is the type of connector plug commonly found on CCTV devices for video and audio input / output connections. BNC is the choice for broadcast video and security video professionals because of its locking design. BNC plugs are easily adapted to standard consumer RCA connectors using a simple one-piece plug adapter. Nearly all products from AutomatedSurveillance.com include the necessary adapters so that users can select either BNC or RCA connections to suit their individual requirements for immediate plug and play use.
Bandwidth - Indicates the complete range of frequencies over which a circuit or electronic system can function with minimal signal loss. In effect, bandwidth indicates the amount of information and its complexity which can be carried over a signal. More complex information requires more bandwidth for an effective signal. (i.e. color video bandwidth > monochrome video bandwidth > bandwidth for one channel of audio).
Back Lighting Compensation (BLC) - Is a built-in feature of every camera found on AutomatedSurveillance.com. BLC indicates the image sensor's ability to automatically adjust in conditions where lighting is from behind the camera to deliver the sharpest and highest quality video image possible.
Black & White (monochrome) Camera - Cameras are available with either color or monochrome image sensors. Monochrome cameras are typically referred to as black and white because video image they produce is in shades of gray. Only black and white CCD cameras have the ability to utilize IR infrared lighting. Also, even without infrared lighting, a monochrome camera will generally perform better in low light conditions than will a color camera equipped with a comparable CCD imager, lens, and quality of manufacture. The black and white cameras available on AutomatedSurveillance.com deliver amazingly crisp video, and in fact much better than the human eye when only a tiny amount of light is available.
Brightness Control - Is a feature found on many monitors. It allows the user to manually select the level of screen backlighting (brightness).
Bullet Camera - A bullet design refers to a camera with a cylindrical shape using an inline video imaging chip (rather than a board design). These cameras are sometimes also called "lipstick cameras" or "inline CCD cameras."
C-/CS-Mount Lenses and Cameras - The security industry has agreed upon a standard size lens mounting thread and coupling diameter with C and CS mount lenses. Cameras built with this type of lens mount can easily be configured with any of a large variety of C and CS mount lenses available for CCTV. Although C and CS are not exactly the same size, most cameras designed for this type of lens can accept either configuration using a simple plastic adapter. These lenses are standardized and will always thread properly, but exchanging C and CS mount lenses does require back focusing. This process requires the user / installer to slowly find the exact right thread position of the lens to ensure a clear video image.
CCD - Stands for charged coupled device. This is a solid-state semiconductor element which uses hundreds of thousands of tiny pixel elements to accept light and translate that information into a vivid, visible picture image. A CCD is one type of camera image sensor. CCDs produce MUCH higher resolution, lower light sensitivity, and better overall video quality than CMOS imagers (also commonly found in CCTV industry cameras).
CCTV - Stands for closed circuit television: a video system which will only be monitored in a closed environment (as opposed to public broadcast). The realm of video security and surveillance is also referred to as CCTV.
CMOS - Stands for charged metal oxide semiconductor. This is one type of camera image sensor which uses a charged metal surface to detect light and create a video image. CMOS technology is often smaller than CCD chips are currently capable of, so these cameras can often be quite miniature. While very low quality CMOS cameras are available for as little as $10 or $20, even the highest resolution CMOS cameras cannot compete with newer CCD imagers in the important fields of resolution, sharpness, and low light performance.
Coaxial Cable - Is the most common type of cable used for transmitting a video signal through copper wire. This type of wiring has a coaxial cross-section where an outer shielding protects the actual interior signal conductor from electromagnetic interference. In the CCTV industry, the term "coax" usually refers to RG-59 cable with BNC-type plug ends.
Codec - Refers to an internal computer component which processes analog information (like a video or audio signal) into a digital format such as MJPEG, MPEG-4, Wavelet, etc. for electronic storage on digital recording media. Without a codec in place to compress and digitize video, digital video recording to a hard disk drive would not be possible.
Color Camera - Cameras are available with either color or monochrome image sensors. Color cameras produce video images bearing the entire visible spectrum of colors. And because color CCD cameras have come a long way in recent years, the colors of objects appear vivid, crisp, and distinguished on monitoring and playback of video.
Composite Video - Is the standard type of analog video signal utilized by most CCTV video cameras. This signal is plug and play compatible with most consumer television and VCR equipment. However, this type of video should not be confused with digital "component" inputs which may ALSO found on newer televisions and other home video equipment. A composite video signal has the correct phase rate, luminance, and chrominance information to be compatible with a particular video format such as NTSC, PAL, EIA, CCIR, etc.
Compression Method - Refers to the computer software technique the codec in a DVR video recorder (or DVR card) uses to convert the video signal to digital information so it can be compressed and stored on digital media like a hard disk drive, DVD, or CD. Uncompressed video would require massive processing power and nearly unlimited storage capacity and is, therefore, completely out of the question in the real world. MPEG(M-JPEG) and Wavelet are the most common types of compressed digital video, but there are variants of these in addition to other proprietary formats. MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 typically offer the highest quality recording (DVDs use MPEG-2), but smaller file sizes can be obtained by using a lower resolution, more efficient compression method like Wavelet or MPEG-4. It should also be noted that the method of compression a video codec uses to compress and digitize video information may NOT always indicate the video file type / extension for playback. Instead, the final digital video format available from a DVR recorder on backup (via USB, CD or DVD burner, etc.) could be in AVI format or even a proprietary format despite MPEG compression.
Contrast Control - Is a feature of many video monitors. This allows the user to manually adjust the screen contrast for better picture visibility.
Contrast Ratio is a monitor specification. This number indicates the dynamic range of brightness (difference between darkest and brightest) a monitor is capable of displaying.
DC - Refers to direct current electricity. This is the type of electricity is used to power many small electronic devices. The majority of equipment found on AutomatedSurveillance.com may be safely powered with 12 volts DC, which can easily be adapted from standard AC wall outlets using a regulated AC/DC transformer or obtained from a battery source. Unlike AC current, DC flows in only one direction within a circuit and therefore requires the correct +/- polarity.
Digital - Indicates information which is encoded into ones and zeros (binary code) by some computer processing element. Digital in this industry, however, can refer to several different things. Digital signal processing is a feature of all AutomatedSurveillance.com CCD cameras and many multiple camera processors. Digital video refers to digital recording of video using a DVR video recorder or DVR card.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP) - Is a level of image correction or enhancement which takes place within a device using a digital computer element. This digital element encodes the information into digital information for the highest level of detail and quality. Cameras with DSP imagers do not necessarily produce "digital video," but they do provide very crisp video images. Quads and multiplexers offering DSP do not necessarily produce "digital video" either, but they do deliver very high resolution and often other dynamic characteristics.
Digital Video (DV) - Refers to video which has been compressed into digital information for storage onto digital storage media like a hard disk drive, CD, or DVD. The quality of digital video will vary depending on factors such as the camera quality and compression method.
Digital Video Recorder (DVR) - This device is capable of accepting one or more video (and sometimes audio) input signals for recording onto digital storage media. A DVR is basically a computer specifically designed to gather and compress video into a digital video format for storage on a hard disk drive or other form of digital media. DVRs are quickly replacing VCR video recorders for security and surveillance purposes without the need for changing tapes. Key differences between DVR and VCR recorders come to available features. Advanced DVRs are capable of accepting multiple video and / audio inputs without the need for bulky and expensive multiplexers or video quads. As well, most DVRs offer built-in motion detection recording (without costly and conspicuous PIR motion sensors), and many can be remotely viewed and played back over the internet. Some models may easily be backed up onto external media for long term archival. These backup methods may include CDs, DVDs, flash media cards, or via USB to a computer or other storage device. AutomatedSurveillance.com offers several DVR models, all selected for their superior reliability, ease of use, quality of manufacture and variety of useful features.
Directional Antenna - An antenna for wireless equipment which sends or receives a propagated radio signal on the same axis as the corresponding antenna on the other end (with line-of-sight visibility between the two whenever possible). While omni-directional antennas are great for short range broadcasts because of their versatility, high gain directional antennas are recommended for most long range wireless video applications.
EIA - Is the standard monochrome video format used in North America, Japan, and some other places in the world. EIA products are also generally referred to as NTSC because nearly all NTSC products like televisions and VCRs can also handle black and white EIA video
Effective Pixels concerns the operation of a camera's CCD image sensor. A CCD is comprised of hundreds of thousands of tiny pixel elements which translate light to a visible video image. But effective pixels must be distinguished from total pixels. Of the total number of pixels contained on a CCD image chip, some are not used for video imaging whatsoever. The number of effective pixels indicates exactly how many of the pixels are actively at work to deliver video. A higher number of effective pixels tends to indicate a higher resolution camera, though this number may not always describe actual video quality in the important categories of sharpness, color saturation and vividness, as well as low light performance.
Electronic Shutter - Is a feature of all cameras offered at AutomatedSurveillance.com. This feature automatically changes the speed at which light is captured in fields of video by the CCD image sensor. Automatic electronic shutter determines the amount of light available and helps deliver the best quality video by dynamically adjusting for the current lighting conditions by toning down light levels in very bright situations and boosting brightness in low lighting situations.
Ethernet/Modem - Indicates a network communication device for computer-type devices. Most DVR video recorders found on AutomatedSurveillance.com come standard with built-in Ethernet LAN connection (with 'RJ-45' plug) to enable remote internet viewing and/or network operation.
Focal Length - Indicates the distance between the optical center of a lens and a video camera's image sensor device. For practical purposes, lens focal length refers to a camera's angle of view. Lenses with a higher focal length number have more narrow, telephoto fields of view. A very low number focal length indicates a very wide field of view. It should also be noted that different cameras (photographic cameras, different imager sizes in video cameras, etc.) will deliver different viewing angles with the same focal length lens.
Field - Video is generally "phased" (speed of real-time display) at a rate of 2 fields per one frame of video. This type of system is referred to as 2:1 interlace. Therefore, fields per second and frames per second do not mean the same thing (this is common misconception in multiple camera processors and DVR recording). The number of fields per second is always twice as high as the number of frames per second.
Field of View - Refers to the angle at which a camera is able to produce a visible image. This angle can be described in terms of diagonal, horizontal, or vertical degrees. A camera's field of view is determined by its lens configuration. Fixed lenses have set fields of view, while cameras with varifocal or power zoom lenses have adjustable fields of view.
Fixed Lens - A fixed focus lens has one set focal length with a specific field of view which cannot be changed. Any camera without a varifocal or power zoom has a fixed focus lens. All cameras offered a AutomatedSurveillance.com with fixed lenses are focused to infinity. This means that although the user cannot manipulate the field of view, everything in the picture beyond a few inches will be clear and in focus. Objects simply get smaller as they move further away from the camera (unlike a camcorder which may be focused only on a small area with blurred vision of the video image in the foreground or background of that area).
Flat Panel Antenna - An antenna for wireless with a flat antenna element contained inside a protective weatherproof housing. As a highly directional antenna, a flat panel is intended to send or receive a propagated radio signal on the same axis as the corresponding antenna on the other end (with line-of-sight visibility between the two whenever possible). While omni-directional antennas are great for short range broadcasts because of their versatility, high gain directional antennas are recommended for most long range wireless video applications.
Frame - A full frame of video is the combination of two image fields interlaced together. A frame is one basic screen capture taken by a camera. 30 frames are displayed in one second of real-time video for NTSC format. PAL format is phased at a rate of 25 frames per second for real-time.
Frames per Second (FPS) - Describes the number of full video frames displayed or recorded within one second. True real-time video consists of 30 frames / sec. for NTSC format and 25 frames / sec. for PAL format. Be sure not to confuse frames per second with "fields per second" or "images per second". A complete frame of video is compiled of two separate images (or fields), so the number of fields in one second is always twice the number of frames per second.
FPS Display Rate (a.k.a. screen refresh rate) - Indicates the number of frames per second a VCR or DVR recorder will display on a monitor for simultaneous viewing. Please DO NOT CONFUSE this specification with FPS Record / Playback Rate. The rate at which each camera is displayed is often NOT the same as the number of frames per second the recorder captures for playback. Many DVR sellers flash "real-time display rate" or "30 frames / sec. display rate" but do not in fact offer real-time playback of recorded video.
FPS Record Rate - Describes exactly how many frames per second a video recorder can actually capture. Analog recorders like VCRs can easily record in real-time (30 frames / sec. for standard NTSC) or time-lapse (fewer than 30 frames / sec. for NTSC). Many digital DVR recorders, however, cannot record actual real-time video. Many sellers try to mislead consumers by advertising FPS Display Rate instead of actual record rate. For most situations, recording rate is the spec to pay attention to. However, please note specifications for digital video equipment are not the only numbers to rely on. In fact, many DVR recorders outperform their specifications upon real world testing while other low quality units often record at a much slower rate than their specs claim.
Frequency - Is the number of competed cycles of an electronic signal that occur in a given length of time. Frequency is usually measured in cycles per second (Hertz, Hz). For most CCTV industry equipment, frequency is used to describe the RF radio frequency at which wireless equipment operates. Frequency can also be used to describe the cycles of electrical current for the signal system.
GHz (gigahertz) - Is a measure of frequency. 1 GHz = 1000 MHz = 10,000 KHz = 100,000 Hz.
GUI Menu - Stands for graphical user interface menu. Products which feature GUI menus can be programmed with on-screen guides similar to a home television or VCR.
Gain - Indicates any increase or decrease in the strength of an electrical signal, often a wireless RF radio frequency signal when considering external antenna equipment. Gain is typically measured in terms of decibels (dB) or a number of times of magnification.
Gamma Correction - Refers to the correction of linear response of a video camera image sensor in order to compensate for the monitor phosphor screen nonlinear response. Without gamma correction set to the inverse (exact opposite corresponding value) of the monitor's gamma, a video camera would not be able to provide a complete video image for a unified display. Gamma correction is measured with the exponential value of the curve describing the non-linearity.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) - Is a magnetic media storage device for recording digital information (like that used by computers or digital DVR video recorders).
HDD Capacity - Indicates the amount of information which can be stored on hard disk drive. This figure is measured in bytes. 1 GB = 1016 MB = 1032256 KB = 1048772000 bytes.
HDD Speed - Indicates the speed at which a hard disk drive is capable of encoding information. While many DVR sellers only use inexpensive, slow generic HDD drives (typically 5400 RPM with no buffer in place), Our DVR recorders are only equipped with 7200 RPM hard disk drives with 8 MB buffers from trusted brand names like Seagate, Western Digital, and Maxtor.
Hz (hertz) - Is a measure of frequency (indicates cycles per second in an electronic or RF signal). 1 GHz =1000 MHz = 10,000 KHz = 100,000 Hz
Image Sensor - Indicates the type of semiconductor which handles video processing inside of a camera. Older CCTV cameras used tubes to process light information. CMOS and CCD image sensors are the most widely available for security cameras in today's market. CCD cameras provide by far the highest quality video of any type of image sensor.
Input Voltage indicates the type of electrical current (AC or DC) and the voltage required to safely and effectively power a device.
IR Infra Red Light - Is a frequency of light which is lower than the human eye's visible spectrum (in the range of 850 ~ 950 nanometers). Color cameras CANNOT use infrared light whatsoever. However, this special band of light CAN be detected by most any monochrome CCD camera. Therefore, a black and white video camera in combination with infra red lighting can see in pitch dark conditions where the human eye is unable to distinguish anything. An infra red light source appears just the same as any visible light source on a black and white camera image. Infra red lighting for monochrome cameras should in no way be confused with new FLIR (forward-looking infra red) spotting scopes or cameras which produce a grainy, green-tinted picture and do not require additional infra red lighting sources.
IR Illumination Range - Indicates the effective range at which a monochrome CCD camera can utilize the infra red light from an illuminator and create an image. AutomatedSurveillance.com offers several camera models with built-in infra red illuminators capable of casting light more than 40 feet in front of the camera. 40+ feet is therefore the IR illumination range for those cameras. Just like visible lights, more intense infra red lighting sources will provide a larger illumination area and range.
KHz (kilohertz) - Is a measure of frequency. 1 GHz = 1000 MHz = 10,000 KHz = 100,000 Hz.
Lens - A lens is an optical device which bends light, focusing it on onto a image sensor to create a distinct, visible image. All video cameras (and still cameras) need lenses in order to obtain a clear picture. Lenses come in a variety of focal lengths. The focal length of a lens, in combination with the size of the imager, will determine its field of view.
Line-of-sight (a.k.a. LOS) - Range refers to the ideal broadcast range of wireless audio/video link (transmitter and receiver) systems. Line-of-sight means the range when there is a visible pathway between the transmitter antenna and the receiver antenna. As well, the line-of-sight specification indicates performance under absolute best conditions. Please be aware that just like home cordless telephones, TV reception, and cellular phone reception, wireless audio/video equipment can often be less than perfect! All wireless products are subject to limitations and vulnerabilities due to many potential variables.
Low Light (or low lux) - Sensitivity refers to a camera's performance under low lighting conditions. Although many camera distributors flash very low light "lux" numbers, these numbers often times have nothing to do with real world performance. Specifications offered by CCD manufacturers list the absolute lowest light level at which some pixels will be altered. However, a human being looking at that recorded video will never be able to distinguish anything under the lowest lighting conditions (near pitch black). Please understand that the latest Sony 1/3 " Ex-View and SuperHAD CCD chip sets have the best low light performance of any such other CCTV cameras on the market today.
Lux - Is a measure of light in terms of candle power (measured in foot candles). Lux is often given as a technical specification for cameras to describe the lowest level of light required for the camera to produce any kind of an image. However, this number lists the absolute lowest level of light needed to move ANY of the image sensor's pixels. Since humans cannot detect this change in the image or let alone make out a distinguishable picture, this manufacturer specification is often exaggerated and misleading. Although generally speaking a lower "lux" rating indicates performance in darker conditions, the number listed cannot give a real determination of real-world performance.
MHz (megahertz) is a measure of frequency. 1 GHz = 1000 MHz = 10,000 KHz = 100,000 Hz.
Manual Iris - Lens is a lens with a built-in method of manually adjusting lens aperture for the best video quality for a specific lighting condition. Iris control on such a lens is set by hand to a particular fixed aperture, allowing for the best possible (often better than auto-iris lenses) brightness and contrast for a specific camera angle / shot.
Maximum Recording Time - Indicates the longest continuous duration of time which could be recorded onto storage media using a VCR or DVR video recorder. Maximum recording time for ALL recorders will depend on the user setting for time-lapse or real-time recording and the amount of storage media capacity. Maximum recording time for DVR recorders is also dependent on resolution settings as well as hard disk drive capacity. Maximum recording time for analog VCR recorders will depend on the size cassette tape, usually VHS, which is installed in the recorder.
Milliamps (mA) - Is a measure of electrical current power consumption. 1 amp (A) = 1000 milliamps (mA).
Milliwatt (mW) - Is a measure of RF radio frequency energy output. This term is most commonly applied to the RF output power of wireless A/V transmitters. For these types of devices, a higher number of Milliwatts of output power indicates a more powerful (and usually further broadcasting) transmitter.
Modulator - Refers to a device which is capable of transforming an analog video or audio signal (or other type of electrical signal) into an RF radio frequency for wired installations. Modulating video into RF allows for longer cable runs in hardwired surveillance systems. Modulators, often called wired transmitters, also require a demodulating piece of equipment to reconvert the RF signal into a typical analog audio / video signal for proper display on a television, monitor, video recorder, etc.
Monitor Screen Size - Indicates the actual physical size of a monitor's viewing screen. However, this measurement is often different than the actual part of the monitor which produces a picture. The monitor viewing size spec describes the size of the picture on a monitor
Monitor Viewing Size indicates the size of a monitor's actual visible picture.
Monochrome - Refers to video captured in one monotone color scheme. For practical purposes, monochrome is another word for black and white in the video surveillance camera industry.
Multiplexer (mux)- Is a video switching device that accepts video input from multiple cameras and converts them to all display on one monitor and / or video recorder, similar to a quad video processor. However, a multiplexer is far more advanced than a simple quad processor. Video multiplexers use time division multiplexing, meaning that a full frame of video from each camera is recorded every few seconds. While multiplexed video does not achieve true real-time display or recording (there is a slight drag to the images on playback), multiplexers do offer the capability to change between a view of several cameras and a solid close up view of only a single camera's view on playback of recorded video. When using multiple cameras, quads and multiplexers help to cut down on the amount of additional equipment needed for a dedicated surveillance system. However, DVR digital video recorders with multiple video inputs are quickly replacing quads and multiplexers. DVRs are now capable of doing what required a processor and VCR in the past.
NTSC - Is the standard color video format used in North America, Japan, and some other places in the world. Black and white EIA video products are also generally referred to as NTSC because nearly all NTSC equipment can also handle black and white EIA video.
Network Operation - Is a feature of many DVR digital video recorders. This allows the user to connect the DVR system to another computer or computer network for dynamic recording control and playback on other computers. Network operation is also interconnected with remote viewing capability for record and playback features over the internet. However, most network operation features are complex and not intended for most novice users. Connecting a DVR recorder to a PC network may require additional hardware such as a WAN or LAN router in addition to some prior networking knowledge and experience.
Omni-Directional Antenna - An antenna for wireless equipment which sends or receives a propagated radio signal in all directions simultaneously. This differs greatly from a directional antenna which is only capable of sending or receiving information on the same axis as the corresponding antenna on the other end. Omni-directional antennas are great for short range broadcasts because of their versatility. However, high gain directional antennas are recommended for most long range wireless video applications.
Operating Temperature - Indicates the temperature at which a device can safely and effectively work.
Output Voltage - Indicates the type of electrical current (AC or DC) and the voltage a device will emit to safely and effectively power another device.
PIR Motion Sensor - Refers to a motion detector with passive infrared technology. These alarm sensors are often used with alarm/event VCR and DVR video recorders to trigger recording upon the detection of physical movement. However, PIR motion sensors are bulky and expensive. As advanced video motion detection software continues to improve, motion detectors are quickly being replaced with the built-in features of high quality DVR recorders.
Pan - Refers to horizontal (side to side) dynamic motion of a camera. Any equipment capable of panning can rotate back and forth along a horizontal axis. Some equipment, indicated as "PTZ," has the ability to pan as well as tilt and zoom.
Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) - Indicates equipment with the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom, usually by remote user control. Much of PTZ equipment is completely integrated, meaning there is only one controller necessary to operate all three features.
Parabolic Dish Antenna - An antenna for wireless equipment in the shape of a round concave dish or grid panel (similar to a home satellite dish). As highly directional antennas, parabolic dishes send or receive a propagated radio signal on the same axis as the corresponding antenna on the other end (with line-of-sight visibility between the two whenever possible). While omni-directional antennas are great for short range broadcasts because of their versatility, high gain directional antennas are recommended for most long range wireless video applications.
Pinhole Camera - Indicates a video camera with a tiny pinhole lens built-in standard with the camera.
Pinhole Lens - Is one type of standard lens available. A pinhole lens is only 1/16th of one inch in diameter, so cameras with tiny pinhole lenses can easily be hidden for covert video surveillance applications. Cameras with this type of standard lens are typically referred to as pinhole cameras. Most of the pinhole lens cameras have a 3.7mm focal length to deliver a wide field of view.
Pixel - A camera's CCD image sensor consists of thousands of tiny sensor elements known as pixels. These sensors detect information about light and colors and translate that information into a viewable video image through digital signal processing. Of the total pixels on a CCD imager, some are constantly dormant while others are effective and actively work to create an image.
Power Consumption - Refers to the amount of electrical current an electrical devices requires for operation, usually measured in amps (A) per hour (often seen in mA milliamps, 1 amp = 1000 milliamps). For example, a miniature video camera which draws 100 mA per hour will consume 1 ampere hour for every ten hours of continuous operation.
Power Input Plug - Indicates the proper size and proper polarity configuration for a device's input voltage.
Power Output Plug - Indicates the proper size and proper polarity configuration for a device's output voltage.
Power Zoom - Indicates the ability to adjust a camera's field of view by remote control. Power zoom may also be described as remote zoom.
Quad Processor - Is a video switching device that accepts video input from four cameras and converts them to all display on one monitor and / or video recorder. When using multiple cameras, quads and multiplexers help to cut down on the amount of additional equipment needed for a dedicated surveillance system. However, DVR digital video recorders with multiple video inputs are quickly replacing quads and multiplexers. DVRs are now capable of doing what required a processor and VCR in the past (plus a whole lot more).
RCA - Is a common connector plug for standard consumer video and audio equipment. This type of connector plug may also be described as a "phono" plug. RCA jacks are found on all VCRs and televisions equipped to handle a composite video input. In most cases, RCA jacks are color coded yellow, white, and red. BNC plugs are easily adapted to standard consumer RCA connectors using a simple one-piece plug adapter. All products from AutomatedSurveillance.com include the necessary adapters so that users can select either BNC or RCA connections to suit their individual requirements for immediate plug and play use.
RF Frequency - Is a term used to describe radio signals coming inbound to a receiver or outbound from a transmitter (usually wireless).
Radio frequency - Is a term reserved for radio signals at a frequency of more than 150 Hz.
RF Input Plug - Indicates the connection interface between pieces of wireless equipment. In most cases, the RF input plug refers to the appropriate plug type for connecting an antenna to a wireless transmitter or receiver.
RF Output Plug - Indicates the connection interface between pieces of wireless equipment. In most cases, the RF output plug refers to the type of plug coming from a wireless antenna for connecting into the RF antenna input plug on a wireless transmitter or receiver.
RF Output Power - Indicates the effective "strength" of a wireless transmitter's audio / video signal. Generally speaking, RF output power (in combination with RF frequency) has a huge effect on the range one can expect from a wireless transmitter. Transmitters with higher output power (operating on the same frequency) will in most cases deliver a longer distance wireless broadcast range. RF output power is typically measured in milliwatts (mW) or watts (W).
Real-time - Refers to video recorded at the same speed as action occurs (so it may be played back at the speed of real time without drag). Real-time video is phased at 30 frames per second (60 fields per second) for NTSC video and 25 frames per second (50 fields per second) for PAL format equipment. Basically all VCR recorders record real-time video, but MOST digital DVR recorders do not. AutomatedSurveillance.com proudly offers DVR systems capable of both displaying AND recording real-time video for seamless recording of important action.
Receiver - Can refer to two different devices for CCTV. Wired receivers are used to demodulate video for extended video runs of more than one hundred and fifty feet. These receivers convert a video signal (and potentially a power and / or audio signal) from an RF radio frequency signal into composite video for TV display and recording. A transmitter at the opposite end of the wiring first modulates that signal into the RF frequency before sending it to the receiver for decryption. Wireless receivers similarly demodulate video (and sometimes audio) from an RF radio frequency, but this signal is "beamed" from a transmitter through the air without wires. A wireless transmitter sends it video images back to this wireless receiver.
Receiver Sensitivity - Indicates the sensitivity of a wireless receiver in picking up a good reliable signal from the matching wireless transmitter using the stock antenna. Sensitivity measurements of -75 dB and lower indicate very high gain potential for a wireless receiver.
Recording Media refers to the magnetic storage device used to store recorded video. For many analog recorders this is a tape cassette, but DVR recorders use HDD hard disk drives. CDs and DVDs can also be types of media used to record digital video.
Recording Resolution - Refers to the maximum number of horizontal lines of resolution a VCR or DVR video recorder is capable of recording. Most consumer recorders do not detect nearly the number of lines of horizontal TV resolution high quality CCD cameras produce. However, using a high quality, high resolution video recorder can yield brilliantly sharp images on playback. VCR and DVR video recorders available on AutomatedSurveillance.com have been selected for the highest resolution recording available for CCTV equipment.
Remote Viewing - Is a feature of many DVR video recorders. This allows users to monitor CCTV cameras over the internet from virtually any computer in the world.
Remote Zoom - Indicates the ability to adjust a camera's field of view by remote control. Remote zoom may also be described as powered zoom.
Resolution (TV lines) - Refers to the maximum number of vertical lines / pixel elements (horizontal resolution) a video camera is capable of displaying on a monitor or registering with a video recording device. Horizontal resolution indicates the number of pixel elements placed horizontally across each scanning line of resolution (vertical resolution). Horizontal resolution varies based on the abilities of each different camera and each different monitor. Although the number of TV lines of horizontal resolution is generally considered a measure of a camera's level of detail and sharpness, this specification does not always indicate true end video quality.
Resolution (Scanning lines) - Refers to something quite a bit different than what is generally considered to be resolution. Video display on a monitor requires the image to be constantly shifting (scanning) in order to display in real time. For instance, NTSC format video is based on a 525 scanning lines operating at a frequency of 60 Hz (PAL format is 625 lines, 50 Hz) for transmission and display of video images. This is an interlaced system in which each frame is scanned in two fields of 262 lines, which is then combined to display a complete frame of video with 525 scan lines. Scan lines (also referred to as "vertical resolution") of video are equivalent for each different video format, but every device must comply with these standards. Horizontal resolution, on the other hand, indicates the number of pixel elements contained placed horizontally across these scanning lines. Horizontal resolution varies based on the abilities of each different camera and each different monitor.
S/N (Signal-to-Noise) Ratio - Indicates the ratio of noise to actual total signal (in a video or audio signal generally speaking). The S/N number measures how much higher the signal level is to the level of background electronic noise, so a higher number means a clearer and crisper picture. Signal-to-noise ratio is expressed in decibels (dB).
Scanning System - Refers to the method in which video information is processed for display on a monitor is an interlaced system in which each frame of video is scanned in two fields on a horizontal line. This type of system is called 2:1 interlace video.
Simplex, Duplex, and Triplex - Concern the operation of video recorders and multiple camera video processors like quads and multiplexers. Simplex, duplex, or triplex capability reveals the number of device capacities which can be used simultaneously. For instance, a simplex device is only capable of performing one type of task at a time, whether that be recording or playback. A duplex device can perform two simultaneous functions like record and configure the monitor display for a certain close-up view. Triplex devices are capable of three tasks at the same time (usually record, playback, and zoom or other display functions).
Storage Temperature - Indicates the highest and lowest possible temperature at which a device can safely and effectively be stored or shipped.
Square Board Camera - A square board design refers to a camera with a square shape using a board-style video imaging chip (rather than an inline bullet design). These cameras are usually called "board cameras," though they may have either an exposed board or an enclosed board.
Total Pixels concerns the operation of a camera's CCD image sensor. This number measures the complete count of pixel elements on a camera's CCD image sensor. This number should not be confused with effective pixels, which can provide a more telling description of a camera's resolution.
Tilt - Refers to vertical motion of a camera. Any equipment capable of tilting can move up and down along a vertical axis. Some equipment, indicated as "PTZ," has the ability to tilt as well as pan and zoom.
Time-lapse - Is a feature of most CCTV-industry VCR and DVR video recorders. Time-lapse refers to recording one still video image (frame) at fewer than 30 frames per second. The speed of this recording can usually be adjusted. Time-lapse video is therefore slower than real-time recording and has a drag when the video is played back. One advantage of time-lapse recording is the ability to increase maximum recording time so longer periods of time can be captured on a video tape or digital hard disk drive media. However, a major disadvantage of time-lapse recording is missing many frames of video and missing much of what happens during a given period of time. There is no way to recover these missed frames on playback. For the ultimate in surveillance, real-time video recorders deliver the most complete and accurate video information of what occurred.
Transmitter - Can refer to two different devices for CCTV. Wired transmitters (sometimes called modulators) are used to modulate video for extended video runs of more than one hundred and fifty feet. These transmitters convert a video signal (and potentially a power and / or audio signal) into an RF radio frequency signal. A receiver at the opposite end of the wiring demodulates that signal back into traditional composite video for compatibility with standard equipment.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) - Is a special type of power supply commonly found in the security industry. This power supply is used to back up the system for ten minutes or more in the event of a main power failure. The time duration of this available emergency power depends on the size of the UPS and the current power consumption of the equipment in use.
VCR - Stands for video cassette recorder. This is an analog device capable of accepting a video (and usually audio) input signal for recording onto magnetic tape media. These tapes can then be played back using the same VCR. All AutomatedSurveillance.com equipment is compatible with home VCRs, but CCTV-specific VCRs often offer advanced surveillance features like alarm / event recording and time-lapse recording. As well, most offered at AutomatedSurveillance.com are capable of recording more lines of resolution than standard consumer VCR models.
VHS - Is the most common standard size for VCR cassettes. For normal VHS tape cassettes, there are three generally available recording lengths: T-120, T-160, and T-200. The number indicates the number of minutes recording on the tape in a VCR's highest resolution and fastest recording speed. However, the number of minutes attainable from such a tape is variable depending on the features of the VCR video recorder. For instance, most home VCR units have "extended play" or "slow play" modes to capture more time on a single tape. Many security VCRs also feature extended real-time recording and / or time-lapse recording options to help conserve tapes.
Varifocal Lens - Is one type of lens found on some cameras. This lens allows the user / installer to manually adjust the camera's field of view. Varifocal lenses can therefore be changed to provide wider viewing angles or narrower telephoto viewing angles. Because of their adjustability, varifocal lenses are great when a camera will serve more than one purpose or to ensure proper focus without first determining an exact fixed lens focal length. Varifocal lenses are also typically referred to as zoom lenses.
Video Input Type refers to the type of video a device will accept for display, recording, etc. AutomatedSurveillance.com equipment (just like the majority of consumer video equipment most clients have at home) is made for compatibility with composite video. For use with S-Video, RGB component video, VGA, or other specialized / digital video formats, an adapter or converter may be required.
Video Input Plug - Indicates the plug size and configuration used for a device's video input. The most common types of plugs for composite video are BNC, RCA, and 1/8" mini.
Video Motion Detection - Is a feature of all DVR digital video recorders found on AutomatedSurveillance.com. This is an advanced software feature which can detect motion in a camera's field of view and begin recording based on this motion detection. This type of detection can in most cases be adjusted in sensitivity. As well, a user can select and deselect areas in each camera's view for motion detection function. Advanced video motion detection erases the need for bulky and expensive PIR motion sensors.
Video Output Type - Refers to the type of video a camera or other device will output for display, recording, etc. on another device. AutomatedSurveillance.com equipment (just like the majority of consumer video equipment most clients have at home) is made for compatibility with composite video. For use with S-Video, RGB component video, VGA, or other specialized / digital video formats, an adapter or converter may be required.
Video Output Plug - Indicates the plug size and configuration used for a device's video output. The most common types of plugs for composite video are BNC, RCA, and 1/8" mini.
Video Quality - Is of course always subjective. However, when most users describe high quality video they are referring to a sharp and clear video image without distortion. Because of the high quality components and superior manufacturing of products found on AutomatedSurveillance.com, these video devices feature amazing video quality. Consumers need to be aware that there are many quality differences available in the CCTV video surveillance industry.
Voltage Requirements - Generally refers to the amount of input voltage required to safely and effectively power an electronic device.
Watts (W) are used to measure electrical energy. In some cases, this measure RF radio frequency energy output. In this circumstance, "watts" is most commonly applied to the RF output power of wireless A/V transmitters. For these types of devices, a higher number of milliwatts of output power indicates a more powerful (and usually further broadcasting) transmitter. However, "watts" can also be used to measure electrical power consumption. In order to calculate watts, simply multiply the number of volts a device uses by the number of amps it consumes. 1 amp (A) = 1000 milliamps (mA).
Weatherproof - Is equipment has been specifically designed for safe use in most outdoor weather conditions. However, weatherproof equipment should not be considered waterproof because it is never intended for submersion under water. At the same time, there may also be extreme weather conditions which even standard weatherproof video equipment cannot function properly. Heating or cooling fans are encouraged for these types of conditions. For questions regarding special outdoor conditions, safe operating temperature for a piece of equipment should be consulted.
White Balance Control (WBC) - Is a built-in automatic OR user-configurable feature. This term refers an electronic process used to retain crisp, vivid color saturation in the truest possible hues. The technology balances the image colors against a light colored object in the camera's view.
Wireless Operation - Refers to "beaming" a video and / or audio signal through the air without wires from a transmitter element to a receiver element. However, wireless equipment DOES still have some wires. All electronic devices need a connection to a power source (input voltage) to function. At the same time, plugs and wires are also necessary to attach a wireless transmitter to a camera or microphone. There will also be wires required to plug the wireless receiver into a monitor or recording device.
Wireless Camera - Is a term used too frequently in the CCTV, and especially miniature camera, industry. Any product touted as a "wireless camera" is simply a camera integrated with a wireless transmitter. AutomatedSurveillance.com does offer professionally concealed disguised cameras with built-in wireless transmitters, but we do not offer any strictly "wireless cameras." The overwhelming majority of these types of cameras currently available offer only poor quality CMOS video imaging and / or very low range wireless equipment.
Yagi Antenna - An antenna for wireless with a series of antenna elements placed along a metal rod. As a highly directional antenna, yagi antennas are intended to send or receive a propagated radio signal on the same axis as the corresponding antenna on the other end (with line-of-sight visibility between the two whenever possible). While omni-directional antennas are great for short range broadcasts because of their versatility, high gain directional antennas are recommended for most long range wireless video applications.
Zoom - Refers to an adjustable field of view. Cameras may have manual zoom with a varifocal lens or remote zoom with a powered zoom lens. Some DVR video recorders also have the ability to change the monitoring field of view and zoom in or out on selected areas of a recorded video image.
Zero Lux Operation - Refers to video imaging in pitch black (0.0 lux) lighting conditions. Monochrome CCD cameras can use IR infra red lighting to yield crisp and distinguishable video images when absolutely no visible light is available.
Glossary of Terms & Technical Specifications
Choosing A Digital Video Recorder
Frames per second Demonstration
Live Remote View Demonstration
Choosing A Surveillance Camera
