A Peek at Video:

Video and/or closed circuit television (CCTV) is more affordable today, primarily as a product of increased usage. Use in observations of consumers or employees, products flowing through manufacturing processes to children at play under the careful and watchful eye of a day care center are common place.

Color operation is becoming more affordable, desired over black and white, however, black and white seems to be the most preferred, remaining the most economical for use. The video system operates with standard twenty four (24) hour power sources. Alternate power sources are generally not accepted, although proposed, as they are not considered economical.

In public access applications such as convenience stores, day care centers or financial institutions, cameras should be placed in "plain sight" and do serve as a deterrent, however, monitors and recording equipment should be placed away from the common areas, preferable in a clean and secure access area, such as a closet or private office. Cable runs or connections in excess of five hundred (500) feet may be of concern, however, longer runs may also accomplished. Placards, placed in plain sight, similar to “For Your Safety, Video Monitoring in Use”, is suggested.

Proper design should keep the convenience of the system user in mind, whether alarm or video systems. Video systems generally are programmed for twenty four (24) hour minimum usage. Tapes are marked by day and week. The system user, changing tapes daily, becomes more acquainted with the operation. Three (3) daily spares per week also provide an alternate and continual method of recording when a daily tape(s) (is/are) pulled to maintain or review an occurrence. Should the user desire to return to a historical event, time and day may be referenced together. Most financial institutions require an excess of a two (2) week history or record of events.

In multiple camera/view configurations split screen presentation of the monitor(s) are suggested although more expensive than switching views. Although each view may be smaller when multiple viewing, it provides more continual presentation which enhances security than “switched”. One view or camera preference may be selected in playback or during the recording sequence.

Common system maintenance/service is supportable, with the initial respective warranty/ies by the various video system components manufacturers are present.

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10/07/02