Nahshon Roberts asked:


Who says video surveillance cameras are only for crime prevention? Used the right way and stationed properly, they can be a very fearsome tool for marketing and advertising. Experts the whole world over are now utilizing video surveillance cameras to make better informed decisions about safety, check compliance to standards, rake in more sales, and improve customer service.

The following are some of the uses for video surveillance cameras in the business world.

1. Compliance monitoring

Compliance monitoring is useful in industries where standard operating procedures have to be strictly followed. Through video surveillance cameras, managers of restaurants or hotels can determine whether or not their staffs are following proper sanitation measures. They can also check if their chefs are observing proper food handling and preparation procedures. Video surveillance cameras are also very useful in cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. They can monitor vital parts of the production process, such as processing and packing.

2. Construction progress monitoring

Video surveillance cameras mounted in construction areas allow project managers to show construction progress to clients, investors, and stakeholders. Because a construction site is hardly an environment conducive for surveillance, the cameras being used should be weatherproof. Additionally, it is recommended that you use video surveillance cameras that have infrared and lowlight capabilities, so that nighttime images can be captured clearly.

3. Performance monitoring

This is the most popular use for video surveillance cameras in the workplace. With the use of video surveillance cameras, companies can keep an eye on employee’s on-the-job performance and their use of company time. In addition, video surveillance helps management identify customer patterns. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where managers have to identify peak hours during the day so as to maximize scheduling arrangements.

4. Traffic regulation and systems monitoring

Video surveillance technology in the form of photo enforcement, for example, helps officials recognize traffic flow and congestion areas. In some cities, camera images of streets and important routes are displayed on websites, to help drivers anticipate traffic problems.

5. Remote telepresence

This use of video surveillance cameras requires that the cameras be positioned in locations not accessible to humans. Examples of these locations include the ocean, the bottom of the sea, desert landscapes, or the insides of a human body. Data from this highly specialized use of video surveillance cameras are used in various practical applications, such as solving medical problems, investigating disputes over natural resources, saving endangered species, and studying the behavior of life forms thriving in their natural environments.

6. Improved customer relations

Video surveillance cameras clue management in on the type of attitude staff members are projecting towards customers. In department stores, for example. video surveillance cameras show how customers are greeted and how their questions are answered.

7. Marketing

Nothing beats the performance and dependability of video surveillance cameras at compiling demographic data of malls, resorts, amusement parks, and tourist attractions. Another usage for these cameras is identification of traffic pattern. For example, a department store could use video surveillance cameras to track foot traffic so that they can position their merchandise in key zones. These key zones are places at a clothing store, for instance, that receive the most human traffic.

It has been said that a weapon is only as deadly as its user. The same is true of video surveillance cameras. It exists as a modern marketing and advertising tool, but it will only be effective to the extent you allow it to be.

Ron Mcbride asked:


Security cameras are everywhere, and I mean everywhere. You can’t walk down the street and not be recorded by someone somewhere. When driving down the street look up and you will see video cameras on traffic lights, news stations use video surveillance to tell us about the traffic and catch news as it’s happening. Law enforcement agencies also rely on video surveillance to be there eyes when they can’t be there physically. Recently home security surveillance has become more popular as well.

Homeowners have many options when they want to see what is going on in and around there property. While most video surveillance is in black and white, homeowners can spend a little extra money to get video surveillance in color. Now you can see the Fed ex guy or your expected guests in living color.

You can choose to buy the equipment for your home security surveillance and install it yourself or you can hire a home security company to install your cameras for you. For the exterior of your home you will need cameras at all doors including the garage door as well so that you can see out onto the street. This will allow you to see who is approaching your house from the street, this is useful for looking at makes and models of cars if there is a car involved in a home invasion.

You can also choose to install dummy cameras around the exterior of your house. Dummy cameras are cameras that aren’t really cameras at all they just look like cameras to fool the home invader. Burglars usually do there homework as to where the cameras are, if the perpetrator believes that he can be spotted at all different angles then chances are that he will pick an easier house. While you still have cameras at the front and back doors the dummy cameras really save you the homeowner an considerable amount of money.

If you want to see what is going on inside your house there are many different options for interior surveillance as well. In the movie Meet the Parents they make light of such cameras. While the movie was funny, interior surveillance is a great way to protect your valuables and your family. Make sure a babysitter is treating your child like they are supposed to be treated, as well as keeping an eye on any valuables that might be in your house.

Home security surveillance does for your family what the public cameras do for the media and the law enforcement agencies. It provides protection from harm and records criminal activity it there happens to be any. So invest in a home security surveillance system today and keep your family and your home secure.

John Morris asked:


When it comes to protecting one’s family a new innovation referred to as the CCTV surveillance system has been created. Thanks to the CCTV surveillance system, you are able to easily watch over your surroundings as well as the people who go in and out of your building. In doing so, you will be able to sleep well at night or enhance the security of your small business.

The CCTV surveillance system actually starts with the nifty CCTV surveillance system camera that will act as your eye on the outside of your house. While the CCTV surveillance system isn’t necessarily a safeguard, it can deter crime and record the actions of those who commit crime.

1. Camera In A Light Bulb

This nifty gadget is most often referred to as a camera in a light bulb where you can simply ***** the CCTV surveillance system into any light socket. Sit back and relax while watching the ultra clear video feed.

2. An Excellent Investment

- A highly sophisticated low light monochrome camera - Compact and lightweight - Exclusive IRFS patented circuitry - Performs live, encoded feeds

3. Plug And Play

Just about anyone can plug in the CCTV surveillance system’s camera. When it comes to being able to perfectly make use of the CCTV surveillance system, all you really need is to have the CCTV surveillance system camera since the other electronic appliances that are being used in the whole CCTV surveillance system need not be as high tech as the CCTV surveillance system camera. Any television set in a good working condition as well as a fully functioning VCR is enough for you to be able to view the clear images.

Remember that the CCTV surveillance system is not a complete solution. While being able to watch an intruders every move will surely give you an advantage, it is extremely important that you know what to do in case of an emergency. Avoid confrontation and if possible call the police. If you must defend yourself or a loved one, you are authorized to use whatever force is necessary, so long as it is not excessive. In general, if your assailant has an advantage, such as a weapon, you are also permitted to use one for the purposes of self defense, and only when the option of escape is unavailable.

4. Home Security Tips

- Kept every possible entry in your home closed - Know the whereabouts of all your house members - Know what to do in case of an emergency, and act quickly - Keep a light on even when you aren’t home to create the illusion that someone is home

Nahshon Roberts asked:


Hidden surveillance cameras have evolved from devices limited to the rich and famous, into affordable items for the average person. If you want to take care of your family, even when you’re away, install surveillance systems in your homes.

About twenty years ago, when people were asked if they would ever install hidden surveillance cameras in their home, they usually brushed the question aside, or they would tell you that such devices were only good for mansions, business establishments, and for the movies! But who could blame them? Twenty years ago, surveillance systems were much too expensive for the average Joe, not too mention too technical and complicated.

Why Surveillance Cameras Are Suddenly So Popular

Today, with the rapid advancement in technology, companies have been able to develop affordable surveillance systems so that almost every home is secured and equipped with one. They have also managed to simplify these devices so that you would not have to hire computer technicians to install the surveillance systems in your home.

But there’s another reason why surveillance systems have become so popular. Unfortunately, it’s the rising rate of crimes in homes. People are learning, through stories of crimes and unsolved cases shown by the media, that if they want to keep your family safe and have justice served, they need a surveillance system in their homes.

Among the most popular surveillance device is the hidden surveillance cameras. These covert cameras work by recording every movement in your home without letting everyone know that they are being watched.

Different Surveillance Cameras

These hidden surveillance cameras come in many different and unsuspecting forms. Among the most popular are the teddy bear, radio, and the wall clock. These are everyday items that blend in easily in any room. You can place one in the bedroom, in the kitchen, or in the living room, and nobody would know these were recording their every move.

Why Parents Rely On Hidden Surveillance Sytems

Most parents choose hidden surveillance cameras to monitor their babysitters and their kids while they are away at work. Time and time again, stories of robbery, child abuse, and molestation feed the media. And every story runs along the same line - parents leave their kids to harmless-looking babysitters and later find out that these harmless-looking nannies are really child molesters or abusers or thieves.

If you want to know how your kids are being cared for, you will definitely need surveillance cameras installed in your homes. Put these in places where the nanny usually interacts with your kids - the living room, your child’s bedroom, and in the kitchen. If you want to be extra cautious, you can even place one in every part of your house.

You might think that these cameras will only be useful in providing footages you can view when you get home or in producing the evidence you might need after crimes have been committed. Yes, they will definitely give you the evidence you will need to have the perpetrators sent to jail, but these cameras can most definitely keep untoward incidents from happening.

As long as you have access to the Internet in your office or wherever you may be while away from home, you can check on the video footages recorded by your hidden surveillance cameras any time of the day. So when you see something bad happening, you can immediately call the police or drive home to rescue your kids.

Sharon Macdonald asked:


Take a look around the internet for a just a minute to see all of the amazing new technology in “body-worn” surveillance cameras. Hats, neckties and pens can all contain video and/or audio recorders.  And the slimmest of digital audio recorders can be slipped into a pocket without detection.

How are these “body-worn” surveillance gadgets different from other covert surveillance tools from a legal standpoint?

Video recording (without sound) is usually okay - even if the camera is hidden on your body somewhere - unless the person(s) being recorded has a reasonable expectation of privacy, the taping is done for some illegal purpose or there was trespass to record the video. If the space in which you are recording is a public place, most courts will find that there is no reasonable expectation of privacy by anyone using the space.

There is a federal law which makes it a crime to secretly capture photo or video images of people in places and situations in which they have an expectation of privacy.  Most states similar laws.  These laws are often referred to as “video voyeurism” statutes. 

These laws make it a crime to secretly record or distribute images of people in places where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms, dressing rooms, locker rooms, hotel rooms and tanning salons. The federal law prohibits anyone from recording images of an individual’s “private areas” without consent when that individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy.  So, stay away from the bathroom and someone’s private bedroom when you’re sporting that necktie camera!

If the “body-worn” surveillance camera records sound as well as video (like the Pen Camera with audio currently available), you must comply with federal and state wiretapping and eavesdropping laws.  You will need consent of one or all parties to any recorded conversation, depending on your jurisdiction. The federal wiretapping statute allows phone calls and other electronic communication to be recorded with the consent of at least one party to the conversation. 

This means that if you are one of the people taking part in the conversation (and using your new Pen DVR), the conversation can be recorded (because one person - you - has consented to the recording).  If you are not taking part in the conversation or if you choose to leave that Pen DVR sitting on top of desk while you leave the room, at least one of the people in the conversation must know about and consent to the recording.

Just to make things a little more confusing, each state and territory has its own statutes regarding the recording of conversations.  Most state wiretapping and eavesdropping laws are based upon the federal law and allow recording with the consent of one party to the conversation (usually you in a “body-worn” hidden camera situation). 

The states which allow “one party consent” recording of oral communications are: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.  The District of Columbia also allows people to record conversations with the consent of only one party.  Nevada has a one party consent statute but there is some question as to how the law should be interpreted by the courts - it could be considered an “all party consent” state.

The states which definitely require all parties to a conversation to consent before it can be recorded are: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Washington.  (In California, there is an exception - you can record a conversation with the consent of only one party if certain criminal activity (kidnapping, extortion, bribery or a violent felony) is involved.) In all-party-consent states, you will need to stick with video surveillance only if you need to stick with the hidden nature of the surveillance.

In the 37 one-party-consent states, a “body-worn” hidden camera may allow you to be more flexible in your surveillance in that audio can accompany your video - because you will be present for the whole conversation and recording and only your consent is required. For the finer points of your own state’s laws and requirements, you should always consult with an attorney.

Wes Fernley asked:


Copyright (c) 2008 Wes Fernley

Office complexes, manufacturers, warehouses, service firms, corporate enterprises and more can all benefit from video analytics. Intelligent video software, when used in conjunction with video surveillance, can provide a variety of functions to improve the efficiency of basic operations, increase safety and security and much more.

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Video analytics is a growing technology which greatly increases the efficiency and effectiveness of video surveillance systems. Powerful software is able to analyze video pixel by pixel all in real time for increased and quickened information flows. Beyond in depth analysis, video analytics can also be used in transferring information to those who need it when they need it.

Built upon Internet networks, video analytics is a powerful part of a remote access security network. Managers, security personnel and employees can all access the system from any computer with an Internet connection. This allows for remote monitoring and information gathering to occur at any time, day or night, regardless of where users may be.

For protection of this online surveillance system, high level encryption is utilized. This is then combined with a multi-level password system which controls who is able to do what with the software, and keeps unauthorized personnel out of the system all together.

Improving Security

Security is important for any security operation. The intelligent software can keep a close tab on restricted areas, for example, and automatically notify managers, security and other required personnel should unauthorized persons enter these areas. Video motion detection and other alarm triggers can also be used to activate alarms during off-hours, so your software is providing 24/7 protection.

Many video analytics software programs can also utilize object recognition capabilities. Objects are programmed into the software, then should anything happen to the object, such as it becoming damaged or moved, the software can recognize this event and send out immediate alerts so that appropriate action can be taken at once. This is especially helpful in manufacturing plants and warehouses which might have important and high risk objects which need extra protection.

Video analytics software can even be programmed to differentiate between normal and suspicious behavior. Should anyone be seen acting in a suspicious manner, the software can then notify required personnel so they can keep tabs on the situation and to keep the situation from becoming a problem.

Employee Management

Employee management is another area in which video analytics can be very helpful. This includes ensuring that employees are following proper procedures and standard operating practices. The software can also analyze employee patterns so that management can keep tabs on exactly what employees are doing and when to improve overall efficiency, whatever your commercial enterprise may be.

Improving Overall Efficiency and Effectiveness

Whatever your operation, video analytics can help you in increasing your overall efficiency and effectiveness. Keeping detailed records and powerful analysis of daily operations can help managers to identify areas of inefficiency, and develop new methods to better complete the company’s mission.

The best part of all this is that the software is able to perform all of these functions automatically. Your commercial enterprise can save money in needing constant and full monitoring of video surveillance systems, as the software can identify many problems on its own. It also serves as a powerful back up system, picking up on things that might be missed by employees on their own.

Work can also be done off-site, as needed, saving in travel times and costs. This is another great benefit which commercial enterprises receive when using video analytics technology. Remote access is a powerful tool and one of the many solutions that video analytics technology provides.

Christopher Thomas asked:


Tired of living in fear? Ready to protect your home and family? Want to keep your place of business safe? Then you’re ready for a video surveillance system.

Video surveillance systems are used both at home and in commercial establishments to monitor the movement of people. Also known as closed circuit TV (CCTV), they are used to monitor pathways and insecure areas around homes and to prevent break-ins and intrusions.

A video surveillance system is made up of the following components:

Monitors. These are used to display video information processed by the cameras placed strategically in and around the house. Monitors have better video resolution than standard television receivers. The resolution of a black-and-white CCTV monitor, ranges from 700-1000 lines, whereas color monitors have a resolution of 350-400 lines.

Cameras. These are placed at strategic locations to monitor the movement of suspicious or unknown persons. They send this information to the monitors.

Coaxial cabling. This is used to transport video information from the cameras to the monitors.

Switchers. These are used to hook two or more cameras to a monitor. Advanced switchers allow you to hook up alarm inputs, so that the corresponding camera is targeted and locked when the alarm is activated.

The camera. This is the most important component in any video surveillance system. Great care should be taken when buying it. Some of the points to keep in mind when buying a camera are:

* How many cameras are needed in order to effectively monitor the exterior and interior of a home?

* Is there a need for both visual and audio inputs?

* Should the cameras take black-and-white or color images?

* Should the cameras be wired or wireless?

The placement and installation of cameras is also important. The following points should be kept in mind before installing a camera:

* The farther back the camera is placed, the larger the area it views will be. However, the clarity will be proportionately reduced.

* There should be no blind spots caused by boundaries, trees, poles etc.

* The height at which the camera is placed should be such that it is not easily accessible from the ground.

A user has several options when selecting a home video surveillance system. He or she can have the security cameras connected to a PC, a TV, and/or a VCR. The camera can be wireless or wired. The user also has the option to use spy (hidden) cameras.

The user can install the video surveillance system him- or herself, or can hire a video surveillance and monitoring service to carry out the task.

Dipol asked:


The main problems in transmission of video data is size of the files and sensitivity of video streams to time delays. Currently and in the foreseeable future, H.264 algorithms ensure the best results - the lowest bandwidth and disc space requirements, the shortest download time. The parameters are about 30% better than in the case of MPEG-4 ASP compression. The newest codec is used by the most technologically advanced companies using mainly Texas Instruments platform (DaVinci).

Market research shows that in 2011 H.264 will catch up with MPEG-4 and then become the undisputed leader.

DIPOL has been cooperating with ACTi since 2005. For the three years the company - well known and highly regarded in the world - has also won recognition in Poland. In 2007 DIPOL was the largest distributor of ACTi products in Central and Eastern Europe.

It’s time for revolutionary changes in video surveillance. The main pillars are: use of megapixel cameras, implementation of MPEG-4 compression with H.264 codec, image analysis. ACTi is the leader of the mainstream. The company offers megapixel cameras, both with H.264 compression and proprietary NVR system.



During the event ACTi invited the visitors to the seminar "H.264 megapixel solutions - a new era in video surveillance". A very interesting and profound lecture was delivered by Mr. Juber Chu, the CEO of ACTi Corporation. It included forecasts for market share of megapixel cameras and H.264 compression on the CCTV market.

ACTi offers many models of CCTV cameras, especially those of megapixel resolution. These cameras, both for indoor and outdoor applications, feature stable operation and high image quality. They stand out with unrivaled quality / price ratio.

During the latest IFSEC in Birmingham the company presented its newest 3 Mpix IP camera TCM-5300 with SONY 1/3” CCD, implementing H.264 compression and dual stream. We will offer the camera soon.

Ralph Winn asked:


Surveillance systems are not just for businesses anymore. As systems grow easier to use (and more affordable), many homeowners are using video surveillance to protect their home inside and out.

Why Surveillance?

It’s a proven fact that cameras deter crime. Unlike an alarm system, which is triggered by someone breaking into your home, a home surveillance system can help prevent a break-in from happening. Some criminals are willing to take a gamble when they see an alarm system sticker or yard sign, but not as many will risk being captured on camera.

A home surveillance system can be helpful inside the house, too. Indoor surveillance cameras can identify intruders and keep an eye on children or employees in the home.

Getting Started

Before you purchase home surveillance equipment, you should consider your security needs. Here are some things to think about to help you decide what type of surveillance is right for you:

• Consider your budget. The cost of home surveillance varies greatly depending on what you choose. You may want to splurge and invest in a top-of-the line digital surveillance system; if money’s tight right now, you can purchase a “dummy” camera - only you’ll know it’s a fake.

• Keep it simple. If you’re new to home surveillance, start small. A basic system that consists of a camera or two, a monitor, and a VCR or DVR should be enough. You can always add features and equipment later.

• Know your options. If you have an older home that’s not pre-wired for home security, you may want to choose an easy-to-install wireless surveillance system. If you’re tech-savvy, you may want web-based home surveillance so you can monitor your home on the Internet 24 hours a day from any computer.

• Think prevention. Walk around your home and get into a criminal mindset. Where would an intruder be likely to break in? Are there particular areas - like the swimming pool or the garage - that you’d like to keep an eye on?

Once you have a better idea of your surveillance needs, you will be ready to install your own home surveillance system. Many surveillance systems are sold in convenient, prepackaged kits - a good option for beginners because everything’s included and components are designed to work together.

If you’re more experienced with home surveillance or have more specific needs (maybe you want a nanny-cam to check up on the new babysitter), specialty cameras and surveillance equipment can be purchased separately.

Nahshon Roberts asked:


Video surveillance has been here as early as the sixties, but when its usage became prevalent in the early nineties, individuals began to become wary of it. Some assume it is an encroachment to privacy while few are telling it’s a method of abuse of authority on the government’s side. A lot of people are making a business about how the appearance of surveillance cameras is getting into their nerves. However, however which way I view it, I do not see anything inappropriate with installing surveillance camera systems around the capital particularly on public locations as well as dark corridors.

The idea of security camera systems was born when crime rates began to rise and manners of terrorism started to affect the world. Little crimes, muggings, burglaries, sexual assaults, homicides, etc. are starting to become an everyday condition that the need for video security became of great significance, if not for easy identification of the perpetrators and/or victims should they be caught on tape, to avoid crimes from happening through the installation of the surveillance camera. Yes, even the installance of a security camera may stop an individual with trouble in mind on his tracks.

After the September 11 World Trade Center attack, video surveillance system has become well-known as ever. Airports and all main ports of entry have upped their security systems a few notches and establishments have more CCTV cams that can cover every square inch of the building than what is essential but it is functioning. It has made the job of following and identifying people with prior violent records easier for the authorities, more so with nabbing individuals who are showcasing suspicious behavior. In the UK, the security cameras themselves can deal with violators right then and there by attaching a speaker to the unit. That’s definitely pretty smart.

However, it’s not only the government that benefits from this, private offices, shop owners, as well as home makers are recognizing the importance of a security camera system. A surveillance camera at a strategic location at a store is enough to substitute a human security personnel, and they do not sleep on duty unless you fail to monitor and update the system. Organizations large and small are having their workplaces all connected. A CCTV camera system is commonly the major pick but a wireless security camera for hidden surveillance is also very popular. Same holds true for private residences. You may be somewhere else in the world away from home and still see the goings-on inside your house, at the workplace, or at the store. Isn’t that such a big help?

Video surveillance is not bad at all when utilized within reasonable limits. In fact, everything is. Surveillance camera systems in public locations as in shopping centers, subways, trains, learning institutions, corners, parking areas, and the like, definitely have more gains contrary to what a couple of persons would have us believe. If you are not doing anything inappropriate, then why would that be a predicament? You’re still free to perform whatever you like as long as you are not breaking the rules. Still with the matter of having a cop video surveillance system inside private houses would be taking it somewhat far off. I presume a home owner could very well acquire a home security cam of his own if he thinks he requires it. The logic is to not oversensationalize it. If the only concern here is privacy, I’d rather be safe.