| As with regular surveillance cameras, the lens on | | | | However, you can save money and use a manual |
| a surveillance camera determines how wide an | | | | iris lens when the scene illumination never changes, |
| image is created and how much light is let in. | | | | for example in an illuminated store or office, but |
| The lenses you purchase should match the | | | | we do not recommend it. |
| format of your surveillance camera: 1/4" lenses | | | | Dome housings like this protect PTZ cameras and |
| work best with 1/4" cameras. It is possible to use | | | | hide their orientation. |
| a larger format lens than the surveillance security | | | | Pan, Tilt, Zoom |
| camera calls for, but it is not recommended. | | | | For advanced security applications, you may want |
| Also, fixed focal length lenses offer only one set | | | | a pan, tilt, zoom (PTZ) camera. With the right |
| field of view and are the least costly. To change | | | | equipment, a camera operator can pan (scan left |
| the resulting image, you need to use a different | | | | and right), tilt (look up and down), and zoom in |
| lense. Variable focal length camera lenses and | | | | and out. The significant catch is the cost: PTZ |
| zoom lenses offer greater flexibility, allowing you | | | | systems are a higher cost than fixed cameras, |
| to adjust your image's field of view. Motorized | | | | however most users find them the most |
| zoom lenses, the most costly type available, give | | | | effective for surveillance. |
| you the ability to control your cameras remotely. | | | | Camera Housings |
| If you want to zoom out for general surveillance | | | | Cameras need to be protected from potential |
| and in for detail when you spot suspicious activity, | | | | harsh elements. Housings can range from simple |
| motorized camera focus is preferable. | | | | coverings, to impact-resistant protection, to |
| If you will be using the surveillance camera | | | | outdoor housings that include heaters and blowers |
| outdoors, look for a lens with an automated iris. | | | | for cooling. A more specialized type of housing is |
| As in the human eye, the iris of a lens is what | | | | the dome: tinted Plexiglas hemispheres that |
| controls the amount of light coming into the | | | | prevent subjects from seeing which direction a |
| surveillance camera. Automated irises can | | | | camera is pointing. Choose the right housing based |
| significantly improve performance for outdoor | | | | on the placement of the surveillance camera and |
| cameras, where light levels vary considerably. | | | | its expected usage. |