Spycam Surveillance
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FAQ 1

Can I view the cameras connected to my DVR over the internet?

Yes you can. Most of our DVRs have the functionality built-in to view the cameras over the internet. You simple type in the IP address (What’s an IP Address). of the DVR computer from any computer with an internet connection and you can begin viewing the cameras.

What does Pelco D and Pelco P protocol mean?

PTZ cameras have to have a standard way to communicate with joysticks and surveillance DVRs. Pelco D and Pelco P are standards for communicating. If the PTZ camera is on Pelco D, then the joystick or DVR software MUST also be set on Pelco D. These protocols are normally set with dipswitches on the cameras. If the controller and the camera are not on the same protocol, the camera will not move. Most PTZ cameras are fully compatible with joystick controllers and computer DVR software.

What is the difference between a flat lens and conical lens?

The picture is the same regardless whether you select a flat pinhole lens or conical pinhole lens. The difference lies in the installation. Most people find it easier to install a conical lens in drywall or ceiling tile. The conical lens board requires less of a hole in the surface area of drywall or ceiling tile. By the same token, the flat lens is better when using it in something thin, such as a shirt or blouse. Both cameras only need a very small hole to see. The closer the pinhole lens is to the exterior surface of the material, the wider the field of view will be

How can I use my computer to record video from cameras?

This will require the use of a DVR card, USB capture card, or USB DVR. Very few computers come with the hardware and software necessary to accept composite inputs so it is very common to have to purchase these items aftermarket. A DVR card is the most recommended for long term surveillance. This will allow for motion activated recording, timer recording, remote access, and many other features. A DVR card must be installed in a vacant PCI slot on your pc motherboard. For laptops a USB capture card or USB DVR will connect via a USB port and provide very basic surveillance but is definitely not recommended. You will then use the software that came with the USB hardware to record the video.

What is low lux?

The minimum light requirements for recording are measured in lux. A decent standard color CCD camera might be .5 to .1 lux. A decent B&W CCD camera might be about .01 A low lux camera would be more like .003 to .0001 The smaller the number, the better the ability to see in the dark. But still do not assume if somewhere is pitch black you can still see well with a low lux camera.

What does lux mean?

Lux is the measure of light the camera needs to reproduce an image. The lower the Lux number, the less light the camera requires. A black & white camera will grasp an image longer than a color camera. For instance, a camera with a LUX rating of .0003 will see MUCH better in the dark than a camera with a .03 LUX rating. When we specify low lux, typically the lux is .0003.

What is a varifocal lens?

Varifocal means that the FOV and mm lens of the camera can be adjusted. Also means that the aperture will be automatically adjusted, for instance in a place where the sun shines brightly at a certain time, the camera will automatically lower the aperture setting to give you less glare on the image. Most of our cameras have a fixed lens. This means if you purchase a camera with a 3.6mm lens, you cannot change it. A few of our cameras have varifocal lenses. These are lenses that can be adjusted after purchase. They will be indicated as varifocal lenses and the adjustably will also be listed. It might say SSC-111WC Varifocal 4-8mm. This means that the camera’s lens can be adjusted anywhere between 4mm and 8mm to achieve the desirable Field of View (FOV). Keep in mind this is different than the lens being in focus. All of the cameras we sell already have the lenses in focus for a crisp and clear picture.

What’s the difference between 850nm and 940nm infrared LEDs?

The 940nm infrared LEDs are virtually invisible (99%)to the naked eye. These LEDs produce virtually no light that the human eye can see. The light that comes from these, however, can be utilized by infrared cameras. The 850nm infrared LEDs is not as invisible as a 940. They have a very slight reddish glow to the LEDs themselves. The fact that they do have a very small amount of light that the human eye can see means directly relates to how well they can illuminate. A 850nm LED will illuminate better than a 940nm LED, all things being equal. The lower the NM number gives it better illumination ability. Operating voltage, amperage, manufacture and even actual size of the LED all play vital roles in the brightness and lifespan of an LED. This is how 48 LED and 28 LED (850nm) cameras can illuminate as well or better than 104LED (940nm) camera. If a camera has 940nm infrared LEDs it will be labelled as such in the description.

What is two-dimensional & three-dimensional DNR technology?

A noise reduction device includes a two-dimensional noise reducing unit for reducing noise by arithmetic processing within an image, a three-dimensional noise reducing unit for receiving the video signal from the two-dimensional noise reducing unit and reducing noise by arithmetic processing between images, a first noise reduction intensity setting unit for setting noise reduction intensity of the two-dimensional noise reducing unit, and a second noise reduction intensity setting unit for setting noise reduction intensity of the three-dimensional noise reducing unit. The second noise reduction intensity setting unit sets the noise reduction intensity of the three-dimensional noise reducing unit, so that the noise reduction intensity of the three-dimensional noise reducing unit becomes lower as the noise reduction intensity of the two-dimensional noise reducing unit becomes higher

What is pentaplex dvr and how does it work?

Pentaplex DVRs are multi-channel DVRs that can monitor and record up to 16 separate cameras. They’re designed for security monitoring. You can also view recorded images AND record at the same time.

What is CCTV?

Closed Circuit Television is a group of cameras, monitors and accessory equipment that work together as a system and are interconnected by various types of cables.

What is the purpose of CCTV?

It is a tool used to protect people, property, enhance safety, and improve productivity.

Are CCTV Systems Complicated?

For the most part, today’s modern equipment is self-adjusting and has a long trouble-free lifespan. Packaged cameras (such as a bullet camera) are self-contained units that include the lens, mounting bracket, housing and power supply in a single box. CCTV has become a “plug & play” market.

C/CS Cameras

Fully functional camera with a built-in lens on a Printed Circuit Board. These cameras are not in a housing. Useful for concealing and building into custom applications.

EXview Camera

Low profile, ceiling mounted self-contained camera package including lens and power supply. Camera is adjustable within the housing for perfect aiming. Plug and play ease of installation.

Complete Systems

Complete packages that include camera, monitor, mounting bracket, cable. Power supplies, etc.

What is a pinhole camera?

Bullet or Board camera using special lens that allows it to see out of a small (1/16th of an inch) opening. Useful for discreet and hidden applications as well as when a large depth of field is required

Varifocal Camera

A camera whose lens allows for the adjustment of the field of view. The lens automatically adjusts to the amount of light entering through the lens so you do not get a “glare” effect when you suddenly get a bright light source (like the sun) shined almost directly into the camera.

Waterproof Camera

A camera that can be placed underwater or in extremely damp/wet conditions where a normal weatherproof camera might leak. Applications include pipe inspection, refrigerated rooms, restaurant kitchens, marinas, etc.