How to choose dome cameras

I. Definition - board cameras, clear plastic housing, designed to mount on flat surface, usually ceiling mounted -
II. Number of factors to considers
A. Indoors or outdoors
1. Temp
2. weatherproof
B. all are wired - professional installation in retail stores, warehouses and apartment buildings
C. color or black and white
A. info
B. resolution, low-light, power supply
C. day/night model
D. Special considerations
A. vandal proof armor dome model
B. look for Plug n Play
Dome cameras are small board cameras, mounted on a base under a clear plastic dome. They are specifically designed to be mounted on ceilings, although other mounting options are possible. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing dome cameras.

One of the first factors to consider is where the dome cameras are to be mounted. If the cameras are to be mounted in an exposed outdoor location, then you need to choose a weatherproof model. Also, if there are extreme outdoor temperatures in your area (-10 to + 110 degrees F for color cameras, -10 to +122 degree F for black and white models), then you need to consider choosing a model that has a built-in fan and heater.

All of our dome cameras are wired, rather than wireless, for professional installation in commercial applications including retail stores, warehouses and apartment buildings. Wired installation gives the best possible images with the least amount of interference.

Another factor to consider when choosing board cameras is whether to choose color or black and white cameras. There are advantages to both types. For example, a color camera can provide more information about the subject of the image, such as the color of a person's clothing or the color of an automobile. On the other hand, a black and white camera can provide better overall resolution and operate using less available lighting. Let's examine resolution and low-light operation a little more closely.

Resolution for dome cameras is usually specified as the number of horizontal lines the camera uses to "paint" the image on the display or recording device. Typical good quality resolutions are 380 lines for color cameras and 420 lines for black and white models. Low-light operation is usually specified using the LUX value. Typical LUX values are 1 or .5 LUX for color cameras and .05 LUX for black and white models.

By way of comparison, 1 LUX is about the amount of light available late at night, around dusk. And .1 LUX is 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 record an image better than the unaided human eye - enabling the camera to actually "see in the dark" ! For best overall results, choose one of our dual-mode day/night models. These models operate in color mode during the day, and switch to black and white operation at night when there is less available lighting.

Another factor to consider when choosing dome cameras is whether or not the cameras will be mounted in a location that is reachable to burglars or vandals. If so, then consider one of our special armor dome camers - these cameras have a vandal-proof plastic dome that can withstand the impact of a hammer. This is necessary because burglars or vandals often attempt to disable any security cameras that they spot. Also, look for dome cameras that are Plug n Play - these models use a standard video jack for connections.

As you can probably see by now, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing dome cameras. All the more reason to do business with totalsecuritywarehouse.com. We have a large body of expertise in all aspects of the surveillance industry, gained through years of experience. And we have one of the best selections of dome cameras you will find anywhere.