What is CCTV

What is Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)?

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a television system designed for surveillance and security purposes, where signals are not publicly distributed but instead monitored privately.

How does CCTV operate?

CCTV functions through the strategic placement of cameras, with their input observed on monitors located in specific areas. These cameras communicate with monitors and/or video recorders through private coaxial cable runs or wireless links, hence earning the term “closed-circuit” as access to their content is restricted to authorized personnel.

Use cases of CCTV

Initially employing small, low-resolution black and white monitors, older CCTV systems lacked interactive capabilities. However, modern displays offer color, and high-resolution images with features like zooming and tracking. Talk CCTV enables communication between observers and individuals within camera range.

CCTV serves various purposes, including:

Maintaining perimeter security in medium- to high-secure areas.
Monitoring incarcerated inmates and potentially dangerous patients in medical facilities.
Traffic surveillance.
Supervising hazardous environments, such as radioactive or toxic industrial sites.
Enhancing building and grounds security.
Recording visual activities to enforce security or access controls, such as in diamond-cutting facilities, banks, casinos, or airports.
Additionally, CCTV is increasingly utilized in law enforcement, ranging from traffic monitoring to observing high-crime areas. However, the widespread adoption of CCTV technology has raised privacy concerns, especially in regions like the UK and Europe, where it has become integral to police procedures.