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*Please note this FAQ is a work-in-progress and will be periodically updated with more information.
Please contact us directly if you have specific questions that are not answered in this document.
Click here to watch Swann's "How to" security tutorials
Where To Start
In todays's society, crime is on the increase and the chances are that you or someone you know will have had to deal with the consequences of crime and burglaries. A CCTV system in your home or business can help to not only record incidents when they happen, but also act as a deterrent. Security systems have traditionally required security companies to install and monitor systems for homes and businesses. However, it is now possible to install DIY or 'Plug-and-Play' systems that can be installed and monitored by anyone wishing to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. This short guide aims to point you in the right direction.
You can read a PDF file (from security equipment manucturer Swann)
with more information on DIY security here:
Alternatively, if you do not think a DIY solution is appropriate, you may wish to contact our associated company for security installations, Electravision (UK) Ltd.
 What Do I Need?
A typical security set-up consists of one or more cameras, a DVR(Digital Video Recorder) unit to run and record the channels from the cameras, and a TV or monitor to view the camera feeds on (this may be your existing TV set, or a stand-alone monitor). Each wired camera will need to be connected to the DVR via a cable. Wireless cameras do not need to be connected to the camera via cables, but will need to be connected to the mains power supply.
Before investing in a CCTV system you will need to take into consideration several factors, such as:
How many cameras do you need?
This will vary depending on how many areas you wish to monitor. If you are going to include a DVR in your set-up, you will need one that has at least as many channels as you will have cameras, e.g. if you need 4 cameras, you will need at least a 4-channel DVR. (For more on DVRs, see below in the "What is a Digital Video Recorder" section). You also need to consider whether to use wired or wireless equipment, and external or internal cameras. See below for more information.
Do you need external (weather resistant) cameras, or indoor cameras?
Weather resistant cameras can be used outdoors if shielded from direct sun, rain, temperatures, snow and wind. However, please note that the power supplies must not be left explosed to the elements. The weather resistance and temperature tolerance will vary from camera to camera. You can have a mixture of external and internal cameras connected to your DVR.
Should I opt for wired or wireless cameras?
Wireless surveillance is a convenient method of security monitoring as it eliminates the need for camera cables. However, each wireless camera will still need to be connected to a power supply. Please note also that feed from a wired camera will generally be superior to the feed from a wireless camera. There are also further factors to consider when choosing a wireless camera, such as the distance between the camera and the receiver, and if there are any obstructions between them. Generally, the transmission distance for an outdoors wireless camera with an open line-of-sight and no obstructions is approximately 100m. For indoors wireless transmission there are many variables to consider, such as the construction of the building and if there are any other appliances that may cause interference (e.g. microwaves or wireless telephone systems), but the range is usually between 20 and 50 metres.
For more information on Wireless Surveillance, please refer to this Swann FAQ: 
If you require any advice on what you may need, please feel free to call or e-mail us.
Do you wish to just monitor the camera, or do you need to record the footage?
If you just wish to monitor the camera, you may opt for a system consisting of a camera and monitor kit, such as this Watchguard Camera and monitor kit, or you may be able to hook a camera directly to your television (such as with this Bird Box Camera, which is a stand-alone camera designed to allow you to view what is happening inside a Bird Box on your TV). However, to record the feed from your cameras, you will need to connect it to a DVR (Digital Video Recorder). This will allow you to record, play back and sometimes export footage to external media (such as a flash memory device or a CD). Please note that not all features are available on all DVRs, although we can advise you as to which products are suitable for your requirements.
What is a "Digital Video Recorder" DVR?
A DVR is a device that simultaneously monitors and records the feeds from the cameras connected to it. The DVR records footage from the cameras directly on to a hard-drive inside the unit. The DVR is connected to either a TV or a monitor that displays the footage (either the live feed, or recorded footage for playback). Some DVRs can be connected to a computer or a modem/router so the footage can be viewed over your local network or the Internet, or even from your compatible mobile phone.
To read the Swann DVR FAQ, please click here:
**More information coming soon**
Further Reading
Swann's Wired Camera FAQ:
Swann's CCD v CMOS FAQ:
Swann's Nightvision/Weather FAQ:
Please check out the website for more information and products:
www.securitystores.co.uk
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