Cameras:

Cameras decisions are complicated due to the number of choices that exist in the market. First you should think about quality and price. You can buy cameras for less than $100, however there are some things to consider. Many businesses and individuals want cameras that can see cash denominations, cash registers, license plates, facial features, etc. There are limitations with this technology. Unfortunately, most situations that require great detail will require a telephoto lens r special set up that limits the camera from doing other things. For instance, a camera that can read license plates will not be able to watch an entire parking lot. The license plate camera should be considered just that, “A License Plate Camera” and nothing else. But never expect both.

Also, when desiring a special interest camera like these above, consider placement as well. Unless you are buying an expensive camera that reads license plates from an angle, the camera may need to be placed at the same or similar level of the car's bumper r slightly above. If this setup is feasible, then you will save yourself some money reading plates. The same goes for currency. When reading a dollar bill, the camera angle should be considered as well. And don't forget lighting. Shooting into the sun or light will create problems for a camera. You can always use a “Wide Dynamic” camera to rid yourself of this concern but you will pay more for it. A Wide Dynamic camera allows you to see both light and dark parts of the picture at the same time. This technology gives you great flexibility when there is no choice but to shot into contrasting lighting situations. But whenever possible, try t install the camera from a door or window into the room as opposed to shooting from the room towards the door r window.

Lenses:

There are two types of lenses, CMOS or plastic lenses and CCD or glass lenses. The CCD is what you want unless you are really trying to budget. CMOS is never going to give you the sharp image a glass or CCD lens will give you. Most cameras you will see on our web site are the higher quality CCD lenses. We only sell a few CMOS types and those cameras are very low priced and also very small, usually the small board type. We will always tell you in our description that these are CMOS so don't worry about ordering a camera from us and finding out later. Beware that some sellers don't offer the same disclosure.

You can generally tell the range of a camera lens from the millimeter listed. 3.6 mm lenses are about a 90 degree angle. The larger the number the closer the view. So a 12 or 16 mm lens will be able to make far away images closer but also show you less of the scenery close to the camera. So in other words, it narrows the lens range. A smaller number will give you a wider viewing angle but makes things that are in the distance much smaller. So a 2.5 mm lens would be great for an elevator, small vestibule or at a door where you are interested in only whatever is close.

Styles:

There are several body styles for cameras as well as several variations of each of these styles.

Bullet:

Bullet cameras are called this because of their cylindrical body type. Like any camera, Bullet Cameras vary in quality. But these versatile cameras are excellent for a variety of applications. Their shape makes them easy to install and can fit into small areas. Most are weather resistant but not all so be careful to check the specs. Some Bullet cameras can be as small as a lipstick. Some nearly as large as a 64 oz can of juice. Some have built in Infrared LED lights offering some additional lighting in dark areas. Look for the rated lighting distance these cameras can illuminate. Some of the cameras offer 100 feet of light or more but be aware that the field of view for the illumination is very narrow. This means the light will appear to be a spot light in the dark.

Dome:

Domes offer some unique qualities for installations. A simple dome creates some mystery as to where the camera is pointed. This allows more deterrence as a person may not know if the camera is pointed towards them or in the opposite direction. It also gives some protection as the cameras cannot be easily moved or turned without removing the cover of the camera. This happens often when employees are protecting the cameras or simply are trying to stay out of the cameras view. It's simple to tilt a bullet or box camera up, down or away but much more effort s required to do the same for a dome. A Vandal Resistant Dome Camera offers even more protection. Not only is the casing hardened to protect the camera against rocks, sticks and other would be tools of destruction, but the cameras often have unique screws that do not allow the simple twist of a lens cover to access the camera. Vandal Domes are great choices for high-crime areas or in buildings where there are many tenants and visitors such as office buildings, condominiums, etc. They are also a great choice for anywhere the camera is easily accessible such as an elevator, or low ceiling.

Box:

Box cameras generally give you the most quality and features for your dollar. These cameras are often loaded with features such as Auto Iris capability, Day-Night and generally are the old school way of offering security.

Pinhole:

Pinhole cameras are primarily used for hidden or covert applications. They can be concealed into small objects and are the camera of choice for anywhere you need to conceal a camera. Most of our cameras are CCD type but there are several sellers that use CMOS type. Read about the differences in quality or just take our word that CCD is the way to go.

Covert or Hidden:

These cameras are great for catching people in the act. The quality is usually a lot less than a Box Camera.

Systems:

Systems with 4 Indoor/Outdoor Infrared Color Bullet or Indoor Dolor Dome Cameras start at $699.95 plus tax and labor can be purchased with all the needed parts. You would only need to supply a monitor.