Closed Circuit Television also known as CCTV is primarily used in security systems. It varies from broadcast in that the signal is not openly transmitted; there are usually point-to-point links. Video cameras, which can be either digital or analog, transmit a signal to a designated portal and the owner of the system can watch the video feed in real time, or review it after a crime has already occurred. The footage would provide the police with evidence that would help solve the crime.
In factories and manufacturing facilities, cameras are used to insure governmental regulations and procedures are followed. This provides evidence that all regulations are being met and strictly adhered to. Another advantage is the events leading up to accidents that result in Workman's Compensation claims or personal injury lawsuits are recorded which can protect the company from fraud
CCTV cameras are most frequently used for surveillance in places like banks, airports, banks, stores, and even casinos. Many homeowners also utilize hidden cameras in their security systems. CCTV makes it possible to monitor multiple locations from a central control room. It's more efficient to have one security guard watching multiple cameras than it is to have mutliple guards watching multiple locations. When they noticed something awry, they would investigate and alert the authorities.
In the case of a crime that has already occurred, footage from a CCTV camera would be reviewed. Frequently cameras have recorded crimes like kidnappings, unrelated to the business that installed them, and provided leads for investigators. Most CCTV record to a file on a hard drive, but older, cheapers cameras still use VHS. Storage is another matter to address, and the owner should decide for how long he/she would like to keep tape before being erased. Regardless of whether the system record to VHS or to a hard drive, it is eventually erased, and if planned correctly no valuable tape with be deleted.
As digital video recorders become more prevalent, hidden camera CCTV systems are stepping up to email alerts and motion detectors. There are currently many systems that can zoom and pan but are still relatively compact. The cameras are high-definition, and are connected to computers making it possible to track individuals or objects. Features like these are refereed to as VCA or Video Content Analysis.
The more prevalent CCTV becomes, the more the question of individual privacy rights versus the public interest are raised. In many metropolitan areas cameras are at such a high concentration that a person can’t walk an entire city block without being filmed.
It’s possible for hackers to exploit the weaknesses in some systems. The hackers cross feeds or upload unrelated videos. Moreover, cameras are susceptible to tampering. Attempts to protect the cameras from vandalism and being neutralized can make them less effective. Laser pointers have reportedly been used to temporarily blind a camera. Also broadcasting another wireless signal at the exact same frequency can jam the camera. On the other hand, all of these problems can easily be avoided by careful placement and plenty of manufacturers have features to protect against vandals. Small limitations like these don't affect how valuable a hidden secuirty camera can be. Choosing the right camera can eliminate most of these concerns. Some cameras are designed for outdoor use and others exclusively for indoor situations. They can be mounted in a number of different ways in which they can recede into its surroundings and go unnoticed which will prevent any sort of tampering. When a hidden secuirty camera is well-designed and hidden properly, it is very difficult to neutralize and therefore more likely to be untouched when a crime occurs.
A security system that utilizes a hidden camera with CCTV is a valuable tool in protecting things as well as people.
