Choosing the right dome camera

A dome camera is a small board camera mounted under a clear plastic dome. They are designed for mounting on any flat surface, and are usually ceiling mounted. They act as a deterrent to burglars and vandals, since they are readily recognizable as video cameras. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a dome camera.

One of the first things you need to consider when choosing a dome camera is where the camera is to be mounted. If mounted outdoors in an exposed location, then you need to choose a weatherproof model. Cameras mounted indoors in a controlled environment don't require any special considerations.

For the most professional results, choose a dome camera that is wired, rather than wireless. Wired cameras provide a more consistent, high-quality signal for installations in retail settings, office environments, and apartment buildings.

Another factor to consider when choosing a dome camera is whether to choose a color or black and white model. There are advantages to both types. A color camera will provide more overall information about your subject, such as the color of an automobile or the color of a person's clothing. On the other hand, a black and white model provides better resolution and better low-light operation. Let's look a little more closely at resolution and low-light operation.

The resolution of a dome camera is usually specified as the number of horizontal lines the camera uses to "paint" the image on the display or recording device. Typical resolutions are 380 lines for color cameras and 420 lines for black and white models. The higher the resolution the more detail that can be discerned in the image.

Low-light operation for a dome camera is specified using the LUX value. Typical values are .5 LUX for color cameras and .1 or .05 LUX for black and white models. An example of 1 LUX lighting would be the amount of light available late in the evening, around dusk. .1 LUX would be about the amount of light available in a well-lit parking lot at night. And a camera that can see down to .05 LUX can actually "see" better than the unaided human eye.

This ability of some cameras to "see in the dark” can be further enhanced by using infrared lighting. Choose one of our models with built-in infrared lighting and your dome camera can actually record images in total darkness. And for the best of both worlds, choose one of our dual-mode day/night models - these models use color during the day when there is plenty of available light, and switch to black and white at night when there is less available light.

There are a couple of other factors to consider when choosing a dome camera. You need to consider whether the camera will be mounted within reach of burglars or vandals. If so, then consider choosing an armor dome camera. This camera has a special vandal-proof plastic dome that can resist the impact of a hammer if criminals try to disable the camera. Also, look for Plug n Play connections.