Surveillance cameras are made for watching offices, conference rooms, warehouses and outdoor areas, and for keeping a video record of what happens there. Our range includes models from Dahua and Axis Communications. The selection is small, so the two options are easy to compare by mounting location and operating conditions.
How to choose a surveillance camera
Mounting location. An indoor camera can have an ordinary housing, but outdoors it has to cope with rain, dust and temperature swings. One model in our range lists an operating temperature of -40 to 60 °C, so it is meant for both cold winters and hot summers.
Humidity. In garages, warehouses and near entrances it is worth checking the permitted relative humidity. One of our models states a range of 10-90%. Compare that with the real conditions the camera will work in.
Resolution and field of view. Resolution decides whether faces or number plates can be recognised in the footage. A wide viewing angle covers more space, but distant objects become smaller, so a large hall or yard is sometimes better served by two cameras than one.
Night vision. If the spot is unlit after dark, choose a model with infrared illumination. In conference rooms and offices where light is available, this feature matters much less.
Power and video storage. Many professional cameras are powered through the network cable (PoE), so a single wire is enough. Before buying, decide where recordings will be kept: on a memory card, on a recorder or on a server.
Brands we carry
- Dahua: a Chinese manufacturer known as one of the world's largest suppliers of video surveillance equipment, making IP cameras and video recorders.
- Axis Communications: a Swedish company that introduced the first network camera in 1996 and is still known for professional surveillance solutions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an IP camera and an analogue camera?
An IP camera sends video in digital form over a computer network, while an analogue camera passes the signal over coaxial cable to a recorder. IP cameras generally offer higher resolution and are easier to connect to an existing network. Analogue cameras are more often found in older installations.
Can a surveillance camera work outdoors in winter?
Yes, provided the manufacturer states that the camera is designed for outdoor use and its operating temperature covers the cold in your area. Our range includes a model with an operating temperature of -40 to 60 °C. Ordinary indoor cameras may fail outside in winter.
How many cameras does an office or conference room need?
A small room usually needs one camera, placed so that the entrance and the main area are in view. Larger spaces or offices with several entrances need more cameras to avoid blind spots. Before buying, sketch the floor plan and mark what you want to see.
Do people have to be told about video surveillance?
Yes, employees and visitors should normally be informed that video surveillance is in use, for example with a notice sign. This follows from personal data protection rules. It is best to check the exact requirements with a lawyer or a data protection specialist.
