CCTVOutlet Blog

5MP Vs 3K Resolution: Everything You Need to Know.

5MP Vs 3K Resolution: Everything You Need to Know.


Sitting towards the upper end between its 1080p and 4K counterparts, 3K isn't just another resolution; it represents an effective alternative to traditional 5MP cameras, offering a more integrated option for modern viewing that's rapidly gaining traction in the surveillance landscape

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Buying Guide
Return on Investment with CCTV, How Long Will A CCTV System Realistically Last.

Return on Investment with CCTV, How Long Will A CCTV...


Investing in a CCTV system can feel like a significant leap, often accompanied by a nagging question: "How long will this really last?". The initial purchase can be substantial, leading to concerns about the worth of the equipment. Will your cameras provide years of reliable vigilance, or will you find yourself facing costly replacements or technological obsolescence just a few years down the line? This article will address questions like these head-on. We will delve beyond the initial purchase price to uncover the true long-term value of a CCTV system by examining the expected lifespan of its various components

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Is it worth buying CCTV
Detection, Observation, Recognition, Identification: How To Find the Best CCTV Cameras Using the DORI Standard.

Detection, Observation, Recognition, Identification: How To Find the Best CCTV...


There's a standardised tool that cuts through confusion and provides a clear picture of a camera's capabilities: the DORI standard. DORI stands for Detection, Observation, Recognition, and Identification. DORI is different because it sets realistic expectations and which you can use to select cameras that precisely match your security objectives, ensuring you don't overspend on unnecessary features or end up with footage that isn't fit for purpose. 

In this article, we'll break down the DORI standard in simple terms. We'll explain each of the four DORI levels and the specific metrics behind them, show you how you can leverage this knowledge to your advantage when selecting CCTV cameras, and guide you on where to find a camera's specific DORI performance numbers.

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technology
The Sound of Security: CCTV Audio Explained

The Sound of Security: CCTV Audio Explained


This blog post will dive into the dynamics of CCTV audio to help you understand why you might not be hearing anything and what factors are at play. We'll explore common reasons for audio issues, such as incorrect settings or incompatible protocols, discuss the realistic pickup range of microphone and the ideal camera placement for capturing audio. By the end of this guide, you'll have a much clearer picture of how audio works in your security system and how to ensure you're capturing the sound you need. 

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Analogue
Discover Reolink: Tailoring Your Perfect Security System

Discover Reolink: Tailoring Your Perfect Security System


Reolink stands out with its diverse selection of cameras – from smart Wi-Fi models to traditional Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems – offering solutions for every need. But navigating the options and understanding how to build a cohesive system with this many options can seem daunting. That's why we’ve created this guide. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to design and implement your own tailored Reolink CCTV system, ensuring you achieve the security coverage you require. We'll walk you through everything from understanding compatibility to setting up complex mixed camera systems and utilising the latest features, like their doorbell integration and Home Hub technology.

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Buying Guide
Seconds That Matter: When Real-Time Viewing Isn’t Real-Time

Seconds That Matter: When Real-Time Viewing Isn’t Real-Time


Did you know that some CCTV systems can exhibit a live view delay of up to three seconds?When we talk about live view delay, or latency, we're referring to the time difference between an action taking place in front of a camera and the moment you see that same action on a monitor. With potential breaches, accidents, and criminal activity occurring in the blink of an eye, those three seconds can be the difference between effective intervention and a missed opportunity. This article will dissect the causes of this often-overlooked issue, explore which systems offer the lowest latency, examine real-world applications where minimal delay is paramount, and provide practical strategies to reduce lag in your CCTV setup. 

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Analogue