The Five Most Common Types Of Security Cameras And Their Uses

December 9th, 2022



When it comes to security cameras, whether it is for your Chico home, small business or mega-corporation you want the camera that will work best for your situation. There are many CCTV cameras to choose from, each for different situations and uses. Selecting the proper camera for your application is vital to ensure you have proper security coverage.

So let's look at some cameras currently on the market. 

  1. Dome Security Cameras:

Dome cameras are mostly utilized for outdoor as well as indoor security and surveillance.  Because of its small dome shape, it is difficult for intruders to determine which way the camera is facing. This design feature is a good deterrent for criminals as they cannot determine if it is pointing at them or not. Other benefits include:

  1. Bullet Security Cameras:

Bullet cameras are named due to their long cylindrical shape that resembles a bullet. These cameras are ideal to use outdoors. They are excellent in applications where you would need long-distance viewing. Due to their protective casings, they are shielded from the elements. They are also fitted with a fixed or zoom lens. Other benefits include:

  • Come with easy to install brackets
  • IR night vision
  • High-quality video resolution
  • Vandal-resistant
  • Maneuverable

  1. Day To Night Security Cameras:

These cameras are able to operate both in normal light and in poorly lit environments. Because of their extra sensitive imaging chips, they can capture clear video images in the dark and do not require inbuilt infrared illuminators. Because of this feature, they are ideal for outdoor surveillance. Other benefits:

  • Records data in both color and black and white
  • Comes in several sizes
  • IR capability

  1. C-Mount Security Cameras:

C-mount cameras were the first security cameras developed and were first introduced in the 1970s. But do not let that deter you. C-mount cameras come with detachable lenses, allowing you to make simple lens changes to adjust to different applications. These cameras, with the correct lenses, can cover distances greater than 40 feet.  Standard lenses can only cover distances for 34-40 feet maximum. More benefits include:

  • Can be upgraded to support updates in technology
  • Work effectively for indoor usage
  • They are bulky but their noticeable appearance can act as a deterrent

  1. Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) Cameras:

PTZ cameras allow the camera to pan (move from left to right), tilt ( move up and down) and the lens will zoom closer or further according to your needs. These cameras are usually used in situations where there is live security or a specialist operating the security systems. Some benefits of the PTZ camera:

  • High-quality image resolution
  • X36 optical zoom
  • 200m IR night vision

If you’re still not sure what camera is best for you Chico property, a professional security expert can help. A security professional will determine what areas of your Chico property would benefit most from surveillance, what type of camera to use, and how to use the camera to truly protect your property. 





What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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