Before you go ahead and start choosing and installing the system it is wise to be aware of the common security camera term and definitions that you may come across. Familiarize yourself with them at the start of the project to ensure you get the best system for your requirements, in this article some of the most common terms will be explained for you.



Alarm Input – This will tell the unit to begin recording if anything triggers the alarm mechanism.

CCTV – Closed Circuit Television, the security camera system will transmit the information over a closed circuit of electrically conducting cables or via a wireless transmitter.

Day and Night Cameras – These cameras allow the user to capture very clear pictures in very low lit areas.

FPS – Frames per second are the number of images that can be displayed by the system per second.

Housing – This is in reference to the casing that will be used to house the video camera.

Infrared – This technology is usually used in night vision cameras.

Infrared Cameras – These cameras are used to formulate a picture using infrared radiation rather than the traditional forms that use light.

Lens – The camera lens is the part that determines how much visibility can be seen from the camera, different lenses will provide varied views and angles.

Micro Cameras – These are small cameras or hidden cameras usually used inside the premises or house.

Monitor – These are used to display your images that are captured from your security cameras. Often with the advancement of technology they will be computer screens that are used with digital security systems.

Motion Detection – This is where movement is used to trigger the activation of the security systems. The motion detection systems use special sensors that will activity if any form of motion is detected.

Outdoor Security Systems – These are specifically designed for the outdoor environment and are waterproof and weather proof.

Plug and Play – This is a term that refers to the installation of the camera system. Usually when you connect a new device to the system the main control unit will recognize the unit without the need for setup.

Remote Surveillance – This is where you have the ability to be able to view the images provided by the camera systems remotely from anywhere you choose.

Resolution – The higher the resolution the clearer that the images you retrieve will be, this will be applicable for the digital camera systems.

Wireless Camera – The wireless cameras allow the systems to be setup without wires, they will use wireless technology to transmit the images to the receiver.

The list of security camera term and definitions within this article covers some of the main ones you might see, there are other terms that you may come across when researching your system. If there are any which you do not recognize then make sure you understand the complete meaning before purchasing your system. The technology can be complicated and understanding the key facts will be important in ensuring that your system operates in the way that you would like.