What quality of image do you need? 

Image quality or resolution is dictated by the type of image sensor in the equipment. 

There are two kinds;

‘CCD’ image sensor



CCD stands for Charge Coupled Device. CCD sensors are high quality sensors that are  commonly used in portable camcorders and similar video equipment.  CCD sensors;

• can usually handle more variation in light conditions than CMOS

• are more sensitive so will work better in low light conditions

• usually have a higher resolution than CMOS sensors and Therefore show clearer, sharper images

• have a higher power consumption

• are not as well suited to portable applications as cameras that use CMOS sensors

• are generally higher in price than camera with CMOS image sensors

Image sensors measure their resolution in TV lines (TVL). CCD image sensors usually range from 400 - 520TVL for normal applications.  Some CCD cameras which are used for special applications are fitted with sensors capable of as high as 600TVL and even higher.

‘CMOS’ image sensor



CMOS stands for Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. CMOS sensors are  medium quality sensors that are commonly used in digital cameras and many low-powered image devices such as USB webcams.  CMOS sensors;

• usually don’t handle variations in light conditions as well as CCD

• are less sensitive so are not as powerful in low light conditions

• have a lower power consumption

• are better suited to portable applications than cameras that use CCD sensors

• are generally lower in price, better suiting end-users that need security on a tighter budget

CMOS image sensors in security cameras usually range from 300 - 380TVL for normal applications. Most CMOS sensors have a lower resolution than CCD sensors and therefore can show slightly less clear or sharp images

How visible do you need your camera to be?

The type of camera you choose has a lot to do with how visible you want your security surveillance to be. For example, professional cameras are rather boxy and obtrusive, which can make them better at deterring crime. Indoor Dome cameras blend into most decors. Bullet cameras offer the best of both worlds, a small unobtrusive camera that still looks and operates like a heavy duty security camera.  Do you want your camera to be a visible deterrent or hidden for surveillance purposes?

How do you want to view your camera(s)?

You can view your cameras by connecting them to your TV, to a monitor, to a PC or to a handheld monitor kit.  You can even buy an IP camera and view it over the internet!