Whether you are using a professional security system integrator or are building your own system using a Digital Video Recorder (DVR), it is important to know the key features of a DVR and video surveillance system. Here are some factors to consider.

How many security cameras are needed? If it is more than 16 cameras, consider an enterprise video surveillance system. (more...)

What kind of security cameras are needed? There are a variety of different types of security cameras useful in a variety of different situations. (more...)

Where is the system going to be located? The location of the DVR is an important factor in making a selection. If the video surveillance system is easily accessible, then a user can simply logon to the system as needed. If the system is only accessible remotely via the Internet, then the DVR should be fully controllable from a remote location. (more...)

For how long does the system need to store video? Many factors are important in determining for how long a system can store a video recording from a security camera. Frame Rate, resolution, disk size, motion detection, compression ratio, camera noise all effect the total storage capacity of a video surveillance DVR. (more...)

Is frame rate or resolution more important? A system with high resolution is more likely to be useful in identify people or things. On the hand, a system with a high frame rate is more likely to capture an event. (more...)

What is the true maximum frame rate? There are several factors that effect the true maximum frame rate beyond simply the frames per second (fps) number specified by the vendor. (more...)

What format is the video stored in? If the format is propietary, then the video file may need to be converted to a standard format prior to viewing in a standard player (such as, Microsoft's Windows Media Player). (more...)

Is audio recording required? Only some systems provide adequate audio recording and audio surveillance requires proper notification. (more...)

Who is allowed to access the video surveillance system? Strong authentication of users accessing the video surveillance system is important. For example, a thief should not be able to use the video surveillance system to view the security cameras.

Will multiple users be able to access the video surveillance system? If so, several factors are important including: system loading, broadcast capabilities, bandwidth, and user tracking to prevent abuse.

Will the video surveillance system be integrated with other computer systems? If so, then it may be important that the video surveillance system use the same operating system as the systems it is integrating with.

Who will monitor and the system? All electronic systems are subject to failure. If something goes wrong with the system, there needs to be a monitoring system to notify the appropriate person of the problem.

Is integration with a cellphone or PDA imporant? A common feature of a DVR, NVR, or ip camera is to allow remote viewing or notification on a cellphone or PDA.

Will the DVR or security camera be located in a harsh environment? If the DVR is going to be located outdoors or someplace that is either excessively hot or cold, then enviromental specification are important.

Recent History of Video Surveillance

The use of Video Surveillance (or CCTV) has dramatically increased over the last several years. The growth is in part due to the United States' increased security awareness after the 9/11 attacks, but also due to a dramatic shift in technology that began at the turn of the century. Since 2000, it has become cost effective for commercial businesses to employ digital video surveillance systems and high resolution security cameras for loss prevention (i.e. to protect against theft). The cost associated with digitizing the video stream from security cameras and storing the resulting files on large inexpensive hard disks is now manageable and the ROI compelling. This web site provides reference material (guidelines, faqs, glossary) on the use of modern digital video surveillance.