A dome camera derives its name from the dome shaped structure it resembles. It is most commonly used in commercial and public spaces such as restaurants, retail stores, parking lots and casinos. They form a part of the surveillance system very effectively owing to their quality of blending in nicely with indoor settings. Also, it is pretty much difficult to guess where the eye of the camera is looking, given its shape and that ensures that potential mischief makers get caught unawares.
Knowing how to utilize such a camera to its optimum capacity is important if one is to derive the maximum benefits this product of technological development offers. However before installation and use, one needs to be aware of the many varieties of dome cameras which are available in the market.
Types Of Dome Cameras And What Distinguishes Each
Dome cameras come in various forms with individual characteristics which stand out and contribute to the versatility of the category of video surveillance cameras. They can be classified according to a number of factors, the most popular being:
Indoor or outdoor: The primary difference between indoor and outdoor cameras is that while the former is not designed to weather rough conditions of the outdoors, the latter is well equipped to withstand such conditions of rough weather, dust and the likes.
Outdoor cameras generally carry an IP rating (which basically gives an idea as to how well a camera will be in outdoor settings and a higher rating signifies a greater ability to stay protected).
Internet Protocol (IP) type or non-IP cameras: IP networked variants of cameras are able to use Internet Protocol for transmitting video signals over the internet or a network. These can be monitored from any location with a broadband internet connection. Conversely, a non-IP camera does not have the same advantage and sends its signal into a DVR through the connecting cable.
IR (infrared) cameras: A surveillance camera provided with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) is known as an IR dome camera and has the ability to ‘keep watch’ even in complete darkness, while being invisible to human beings. It functions with the help of infra rays which the human eye cannot detect. On the other hand, dome cameras without inbuilt LEDs can only maintain surveillance when there is external light.
PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras: A PTZ is able to move from left to right and vice versa, move up and down and zoom in and out. Some of these varieties come with the auto tracking feature which enables it to zoom in on and track an object once it is detected in motion.
Vandal proof cameras: Most security cameras require to be placed close to where vandalism might occur and as a result is prone to receiving damage. As a remedy, vandal proof dome cameras are designed in ways which provide strength and the ability to resist damage.
Once the most appropriate model is purchased it will need installation, connection and care to perform its task as a surveillance device.
Some General Guidelines For The Efficient Use And Care Of Dome Cameras
Ensure that installation and servicing is done by experienced and efficient professionals
Handle the product with care and caution and avoid instances of abuse like striking or shaking
Avoid exposing the camera to water unless specifically mentioned that the model is moisture resistant
Avoid use in extreme environments
Dome cameras should generally not be mounted on a sun facing wall where the lens might be exposed to direct sunlight
The CCD sensor should not be touched directly with bare hands and a cloth or swipe may be used to clean off dust and other particles
Panasonic is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of dome security cameras and offer a wide range of choice when it comes to digital video cameras for surveillance purposes. The involved team of professionals experienced in this particular field offers help and guidance regarding the choice, use and safety of dome cameras.