CCTVs have become a popular security and surveillance option for many commercial establishments. With modern tech advancements, cameras are better, streaming is faster and footage is easier to monitor. There are several types of cameras, each suited for different uses. This means you have a variety of camera systems to choose from, depending on the needs of your business.

Take a look at the most popular types of CCTV cameras and their features.

Dome CCTV Cameras

These are among the most affordable cameras among the lot. You can easily recognize them from their hemispherical or dome-shaped encasing. They are mostly installed indoors, but some professionals install them outdoors due to their weatherproof abilities.

Apart from being weatherproof, the encasing is also tamperproof. Today, most cameras have a Vandal Resistant Rating that shows the degree of mechanical protection. So, the higher the rating, the more difficult it is for someone to mess with them.

Also, dome cameras have a sleek design, perfect for discreet surveillance. Because of its globe-like encasing, it becomes difficult for anyone to know which way the camera points. The design further allows owners to have a 360-degree view of their premises, eliminating the chances of a visual blind spot.

Some dome cameras also offer modern high-resolution imaging and varifocal lenses. Varifocal lenses provide an adjustable focal length to fine-tune the camera to the preferred distance. And because one camera can cover a large area, dome cameras are popular in hotels, gas stations, casinos, schools, banks and even hospitals.

Bullet CCTV Cameras

Bullet cameras have an iconic long and cylindrical shape, giving them a prominent and noticeable presence. This shape also makes it possible to pack a larger lens for long-distance recording. That's why they are a popular outdoor camera type. Still, you can use them indoors where you need long-distance surveillance, especially if there are huge hallways.

These cameras are also easy to install and reposition because they ship with a unique mounting handle. All an installer needs to do is mount it to your ceiling, wall or mounting bracket.

In addition to the easy installation, these cameras are highly durable, making them a perfect option for outdoor surveillance. They can offer clear surveillance under different weather conditions. In fact, some bullet cameras have in-built temperature gauges and heaters to ensure they work even in extreme external conditions. 

Most modern bullet cameras also offer high-resolution capabilities. With their infrared illuminators, night vision and protective cover, these cameras are perfect to use with License Plate Recognition (LPR) software. Traditional CCTV cameras don't always capture a clear license image at night. Light will sometimes bounce off the plate and bring out an image with too much static. But with LPR software, bullet CCTV cameras can easily capture the plates of a moving or stationary vehicle. 

Whatever type of CCTV system you choose, always hire an experienced expert to install the cameras for you. Keep these tips in mind when looking for commercial CCTV installation services near you.