There are different types of wireless CCTV systems, each with their own special features, advantages and disadvantages.
Analogue Wireless CCTV
Analogue CCTV equipment relies on a continuous wireless signal, with no interference.
As quality relies on the shape of the signal received from the camera, the colour definition and other image detail can vary. Anything that interferes with the signal shape can distort the picture, which for some applications becomes a serious issue. There could even be situations when the signal is blocked completely, and no picture is received at all.
Analogue CCTV transmission can also bring security issues. Receivers can be maliciously or unwittingly tuned to the appropriate frequency, which means the signals from your cameras are diverted away.
Digital Wireless CCTV
The shape of digital CCTV signals is not as crucial and it can’t be easily blocked. In fact, digital signals can only really be altered by switching the equipment on or off.
As digital – or Wi-Fi – signal transmission can be easily encrypted, it also has far greater security potential. Only equipment with the corresponding security key can be used to receive the imagery from the camera.
Wireless potentially costs less
One of the biggest “pros” for installing wireless CCTV (analogue or digital) may surprise many people – cost. Modern wireless equipment is highly affordable, and installation can be quick and relatively inexpensive.
Hardwiring CCTV equipment into your home and business can be costly. This is particularly true if structural modifications are required. Wiring can also be unsightly, especially when the CCTV is for domestic use.
For some people, the additional cost of hardwiring CCTV equipment is worth it, as it ensures a more reliable connection between the cameras and your receiver, and is impossible to hack.
Wireless IP CCTV
There is another form of wireless security technology, which is Internet Protocol CCTV – often the system of choice for anyone who needs “real-time” transmission.
This system uses cameras that send the images in the form of data, over the internet, to pre-coded receiving equipment such as laptops.
The benefit of this form of wireless CCTV is it’s highly secure. It can also be used to receive and analyse imagery from remote locations. In fact, you could set up a number of wireless IP cameras at one location, which can be controlled and watched from somewhere a considerable distance away.
The disadvantages of this system is that it tends to be costly, and installation is highly specialist and complex.
Flexibility of wireless CCTV
Wireless technology is often easier to reposition as well as install, when compared to hardwired CCTV equipment. This offers greater flexibility and adaptability.
Whatever type of CCTV you decide on, find a company with the experience and expertise to design and install a system that matches your requirements and property.
