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Installing your own CCTV Cameras or a camera system can seem like a daunting task. Installing cameras is not difficult but does require a certain method in order to obtain the best possible results from your efforts.

First off you will need to obtain a security camera system there are many different types of camera systems CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) is usually used in commercial applications and the cameras are not plug and play.

A cctv camera is usually made to be used indoors and has a wide assortment of
lenses that can be used with it. CCTV Cameras do not include lenses and have a specific style lens that needs to be used based on the camera format. Most CCTV cameras are 24 volt AC instead of the more used 12dc that spy cameras and hidden cameras use. Some cameras are available in dual voltage they have a special circuit inside that allows you to use either 12 volt DC or 24 AC power.

1. Powered: A powered lens takes power from the back of the camera using a four pin plug or a 2 conductor cable
2. Non Powered: The lens requires no power to operate.
3.  Auto Iris: An auto Iris lens adjust automatically f to the amount of light available.
4. Manual Iris: You need to set the Iris to a position that allows just so much light in. (Not used much any more)
5. Vari-Focal Lens: The lens can be adjusted manually and locked in position. This type of lens is very good for on going construction and for loss prevention people who move their cameras often.
6. Zoom lens: A powered lens that uses a control to zoom in and out live.
7. Fixed Lens: A fixed lens is a permanently fixed field of view.
   
   CCTV cameras are set up a little different than spy cameras are. We will start with site design.
   
   Sometime ago I wrote about how to position your cameras so Ill skip that for now.
   
   Installing security cameras

The basic concept is the same but CCTV cameras have a much wider adjustment range and are very visible and add to the overall effect .