Class monitors

Both models offer PAL, NTSC and SECAM viewing capabilities and FBAS, S-Video and VGA video signal inputs to enable integration with existing CCTV systems. An easy-to-follow on-screen menu and FBAS, Y/C and RGB adds user convenience.

Vista sister
Norbain SD has launched a 15 inch TFT/LCD multimedia display monitor. Giving high resolution images of up to 1024 x 768 XGA, the Vista VFSM15/DW consumes less than half the power of traditional CRT monitors and is said to have a longer lifespan. The monitor also take up 85% less space than conventional monitors of similar specification.

A clutch of useful features includes PAL/NTSC auto-detect for multi-standard use, audio input/output, in-built stereo speakers and on-screen menus in five languages. The unit also flexes its muscles with both PC and CCTV security systems. It has wide-ranging power supply, offers dual composite, and one SVHS and RGB video inputs.

The cream-coloured unit is recommended for wall or desk-mounted installations where aesthetics and performance are essential, and for tight spaces at reception desks, forecourt stations, shops, banks, transport and industrial offices.

Testing the metal
Sanyo has introduced a range of menu-driven colour monitors that offer more than 750 TV lines of horizontal resolution. The 14 inch VCC-8614P and 19 inch VCC-8619P monitors are cased in durable metal cabinets with built-in compact loudspeakers. There is a choice of three channels of audio and video inputs with built-in sequential switching.

The units have S-video input and output terminals providing a bridge connection to display camera images on several monitors. They include automatic PAL or NTSC inputs.

Colour and mono units
Ademco Video has a range of colour and monochrome monitors. The AMC21 is a 21 inch colour monitor that's said to be advantageous for detailed picture-in-picture or multi-screen formats typically associated with quads or multiplexers, giving 450 TV lines resolution. It has a host of features including on-screen display and set-up menus which makes it easy to set up, auto-sensing NTSC/PAL, S-VHS input and output capability, video loop-through with automatic termination, it supports two composite and one Y/C video input and is encased in a heavy-duty metal cabinet. The unit also has audio capability making it convenient for secured entry areas allowing operators to listen as well as view monitored areas.

It measures 490 x 440 x 475mm (WxHxD) and operates in maximum temperatures of 40 degrees C. The monitor is distributed by Video Controls Distribution.

Premium performers
From Norbain SD's stable comes the Professional Vista Display (PVD) range of colour monitors that are said to be premium performance models for retail and commercial applications. Two screen sizes are available – 10 inch and 14 inch – offering high quality images with up to 750 TV lines resolutions. Other features include built-in audio, choice of power supplies and Y/C (S-VHS) and composite inputs.

The cabinets are finished in black, cream or charcoal grey and are made of metal.

High spec and compact
JVC claims its TM-140PN is the highest specification compact, colour monitor available on the market for CCTV applications. The 14 inch model gives 750 TV lines resolution and pictures can be viewed in widescreen or regular aspect ratios. The monitor is PAL/NTSC compatible and a simple on-screen menu gives easy set up and the ability to fine-tune viewing specifications. A/B channel selection is possible via a wired remote control option. The monitor has a rugged metal casing and has dimensions of 346 x 310 x 375mm.

Ship Sharp
Hi Sharp's HS-CM146 is a 14 inch colour monitor with audio capability giving 520 TV lines resolution. It has convenient front panel controls and is encased in a heavy-duty metal cabinet. Other features include looping video input and output connectors, switchable A/B channels, digital controls for picture adjustment and dual system auto-sensing NTSC/PAL. It is said to be perfect for use with colour quads and multiplexers. The audio function is optional. It is finished in a black matte coating.

Quality images
The Mythos range of 12 inch black-and-white observation system gives up to 800 TV lines, providing high resolution images as well as a host of other advanced features.

Available through Rokonet, installers will find the unit simple to set up. Options include a 4-channel switcher version, built-in 4-channel real time quad version and a picture-in-picture version. All are available with two-way audio capability.

A colour range of Mythos observation systems includes a 14 inch monitor giving 380-420 TV lines resolution, and including time, date and title generator.

For intuitive use
Philips CSI's REO observation system for the retail and small to medium-sized businesses focuses round a switcher monitor that takes up to four camera inputs and a multiplexer monitor that can handle eight cameras and take up to two slave monitors.

The switcher monitor has manual or auto sequencing picture selection, and includes day/night switch, video motion detection and remote control. It sports a sleek design in white. The multiplexer monitor has full resolution recording of all cameras and interleave recording of the alarm camera. It also has event replay, and a range of viewing options that include 2x2 real time quad or multi-screen 3x3 display.

The cameras can be programmed for certain functions from the monitor and the kit comes as a plug and play system that requires no specialised installation knowledge.