From the familiar to the not so, here is a range of CCTV cameras including some we have tested in recent months …
Professional performance
Ultrak has released new high-performance colour and mono cameras – the KC20 range, which has been designed to provide installers, specifiers and operators with professional performance at competitive pricing.

Using a third-inch CCD imaging device and Digital Signal Processing, the KC55 and KC75 colour cameras offer 330 and 470 TV lines respectively. Along with a supporting specification that includes auto/manual shutter speeds and gamma correction,"outstanding" colour rendition is said to be assured throughout a diversified range of demanding colour-imaging applications.

For monochrome surveillance applications, the KC45 TV line resolution, 0.4 lux camera shares a similar spec to the KC65, 580 TVL res, 0.8 lux camera. Both models feature advanced third-inch CCD sensor technology to deliver "exceptional" black and white imaging, claims Ultrak.

Underlining Ultrak's commitment to provide total security solutions, all KC Series cameras feature back light compensation, are fitted with a C/CS lens mount with back-focus adjustment ring and – for quicker installation – include a pushbutton power input terminal strip. All models are available with 24v AC or optional 230v AC power operation.

Pictures in absolute darkness
The new VKC-139/IR-SU from eneo boasts an integral image memory and increases the range of infrared sensitive cameras distributed by Videor Technical. During the day it delivers colour images, then sharp black-and-white images in absolute darkness with IR lighting.

The integral infrared absorbing filter can be removed whenever required, so that a minimum illumination of 0.27 lux (F1.2) can be measured with the gain control (AGC) switched on and the image memory switched off, and even 0.0044 lux (F1.2) when the image memory is switched on.

A Sony EXview HAD CCD sensor chip in addition to the AGC ensures high light sensitivity. The camera switches over to black-and-white mode whenever the illumination deteriorates and it also delivers good sensitivity in the infrared range.

Other features of the VKC-139/IR-SU include automatic or manual white balance, linear shutter control up to 1/100,000 sec, low speed shutter control from 1/25 to three seconds, auto iris in combination with electronic shutter control and backlight compensation.

It also includes horizontal and vertical aperture correction, and it can be synchronised internally or in a network (line lock).

Saves time and money
Sony has introduced four high-resolution vari-focal built-in lens models to its range: the SSC-MX13VCE, SSC-MX18VCE, SSC-CX13VP and SSC-CX18VP. Easy to install, the high quality vari-focal lens requires only two simple adjustments to achieve the ideal viewing area. Fitting and back-focusing a separate lens is no longer necessary, saving installers time and money.

The all-in-one body, stylish and lightweight, and the original Sony compact design make the cameras suitable for commercial and fashionable facilities such as department stores, shopping malls, shops, museums and banks.

Said to provide excellent cost/ performance ratio, these cameras are suitable for applications where unobtrusive monitoring is required.

For a Bench Test of the SSC-CX18VP, see next month's Security Installer.

Reassuringly familiar
Baxall built on the technology and feature set of the CDSP range to pro-duce the CDX Series, which offer extra features and more configurable options to choose from. These include S-VHS video output for high-resolution colour images, variable peak-white inversion to display a pre-specified level of white light and genlock to prevent images from rolling.

The CDX9714 was Bench Tested in February's Security Installer, when our testers commented that the Baxall logo was a reassuringly familiar sight and wrote: "This model slots in neatly between costly high-performance specialist cameras and the vast majority of mid-range and general purpose cameras.

"It is a solid, workmanlike design with enough manual adjustments to ensure a useable image in all but the most unfavourable conditions. In short, a very decent camera, a useful addition to any system that is capable of making use of its low light facility to resolve fine detail."

Full picture
Extreme CCTV's EX36 night vision corner camera has been designed to provide a clear view of every square foot of floor space in a room, both day and night. It has met the prison authorities' preferred specification requirements of video monitoring in prison cells because of its ability to monitor all four walls of a room.

The camera also incorporates a no-grip design, flush-mount detailing and uses recessed safety screws, minimising the possibility of it being used as a weapon. It can switch to infrared mode automatically.

Ready to run!
Stortech's V range of camera kits give installers a ready-to-run solution for applications in commercial, industrial and public or private sheltered entrances where light levels can fluctuate significantly. The units feature an integral varifocal lens and come in mono or colour versions.

The cameras are available in modules giving resolutions of between 330 and 570 TV lines and a full range of set-up adjustments.

The top-of-the-range version is based around the Pecan CB60H high resolution CCD camera module featuring a varifocal and auto-iris lens. It gives the camera the ability to view individual detail more closely compared to other fixed lens cameras.

Picture contrast can also be automatically optimised in varied light conditions. The varifocal lens has a focal length of between 4 and 9mm.

Entry level applications
The Vista NCL/NCD third-inch colour and mono cameras kits – exclusively available from Norbain SD – have been designed for entry-level applications, without compromising quality of image or features provided. A notable feature is the integral 4 – 9mm direct drive varifocal lens.

This combination of camera and varifocal lens removes the time and effort required by the installer to select a lens and allows him to be more flexible in his choice of camera position.

As the camera kits also come complete with a miniature bracket, 240v AC, 12v DC power supply unit and two BNC connectors, the installation is made all the more simple.

There are four kits in the NCL/NCD range, two of which are mono with 380 and 580 TVL resolution, plus a light sensitivity of 0.1 and 0.3 lux respectively. The two colour models have 330 and 480 TVL and light sensitivity of 0.8 and 1.2 lux respectively.

Cutting edge
Sanyo's proud claim was to be the first manufacturer to introduce a single chip camera that offers 520 TVL horizontal resolution. The VCC-6572P third-inch colour camera has a DSP circuit which, according to the manufacturer "incorporates a host of technical innovations".

The new single chip circuit offers a sophisticated backlight compensation function, colour reproduction and aperture compensation. Sanyo has written new algorithms specifically to allow the VCC-6572P to reproduce natural colours, reduce smear and produce sharp clear pictures.

In last September's edition of Security Installer, our Bench Testers concluded: "There is only a relatively small market for such products at the moment. However, it is clear that there is a growing demand for ever higher resolutions. Now that digital video recording systems are starting to have an impact we can expect to see a lot more cameras like this one."

Formidable kit
The Space Camera (FAC 838IS) from plettac comprises a separate camera head and control unit connected by a single cable, which means it can be installed in confined spaces and is easier to conceal or integrate within furnishings and fittings.

It is exceptionally well specified, according to our Bench Testers who ran their eye over it in December 2000. They remarked that it had an unusually wide range of operating parameters which could be remotely configured from a dedicated camera control unit or a Windows PC.They concluded: "It is a formidable piece of kit."

Smaller than most
The CC3500S-2X digital colour cameras from Pelco are smaller than most other full-featured CCD units and offer colour balance settings, gamma level adjustment, automatic gain control, digital signal processing for automatic backlight compensation and line lock.

The CC3500S-2 features 330 TVL, while the CC3600H-2 features 480 TVL and enhanced sensitivity of 0.3 lux.

Accessories include the PCM100, an adjustable camera mount with integrated cables which makes installation quick and easy.

'Low cost'
Philips CSI has launched a range of low cost digital CCTV cameras to complement its LTC range. The VCM range offers either 490 or 340 TVL resolution in colour, and 560 or 380 TVL in monochrome.

All models feature backlight compensation and digital signal processing. The third-inch CCD models provide a choice of IRIS control with electronic, active iris or DC iris control with level adjustment.

They can operate on 12v DC or 24v AC, or high voltage 110/240v AC.

Dual compatibility
The 2420 network camera from Axis Communications was claimed as the "world's first professional network camera that simultaneously transmits video in digital and analogue formats, using motion JPEG in full video quality."

This solution allows backward compatibility with traditional analogue CCTV systems.

Aimed at the medium to high end security market, the system is equipped with features such as motion detection, PTZ support, relay control and event-triggered alarm handling.

Had you fooled!
When is a camera not a camera? When it is a dummy. From Avocet Hardware comes this model, which can be fitted in minutes and is aimed at deterring opportunist burglars.

With a flashing LED, the device can be used to provide enhanced protection for offices, warehouses, garages and sheds, when used with other products.

The unit, which runs on two AA batteries, has a weather-resistant casing and comes with a mounting bracket for quick and easy installation.

See in dark without IR
Philips CSI's LTC 0500 mono-chrome and LTC 0600 colour cameras have sensitivity down to 0.02 lux for the monochrome and 0.3 lux for the colour.

The low light capability of the monochrome camera a allows it to be used for true night and day surveillance in most circumstances without the need for IR lighting.

The colour camera switches modes for night time surveillance.

The cameras are suitable for general security as well as night and day surveillance in traffic, parking, city centre and retail surveillance. They are also said to perform well where backlighting is a problem.

This makes them suitable for identification of number plates against headlight glare or in situations where there is glare from windows, lights or sky.

They are said to be simple to set up, using push button controls on the side panel for easy adjustment of common camera functions.

Cameras have three different configuration modes pre-set for individual lighting situations and instantly recalled by the operator or an auto switch to provide the best performance in low/difficult lighting situations.

24/7 'affordable' surveillance
Silent Witness has launched the SWX45 – a low cost surveillance camera that is said to capture superior images in both day and night conditions.

With accurate colour rendering by day and clear black and white images by night, the SWX45 offers "true 24/7 surveillance"

The SWX45 sees objects 40 feet (12m) away, even in total darkness. The 12 near infrared light emitting diodes provide short-range illumination over a wide area.

It produces "perfectly exposed" pictures in any lighting environment, indoor or out, says the company.

The SWX45 is designed for unobtrusive installations and draws less than 180mA of power.

The camera's rugged, high impact dome housing is vandal resistant and weather tight.

Camera/lens combination
The Ganz 'LC Series' from CBC (Europe) is said to save time and money by vastly reducing the complication of installing and correctly matching the camera/lens combination to a required scene.

The LC Series integrates hi speed varifocal lens with a high performance CCTV camera to offer a cost effective solution.

User gets full control over image focus

From Moritex Europe comes a comprehensive range of compact and low mass optical CCTV lenses. All Moritex lenses come with adjustable focus and iris rings, giving the user full control over image focus, brightness and depth of field. Once set, both the focus and the iris can be locked in, thereby increasing the accuracy and reliability of the system on which they are employed. Image magnification and operational working distances can be tailored to requirement by using an optional rear converter lens or close-up ring. Further versatility is possible by adding an optional polarising filter, glass lens cover and illumination system. And as a supplier of fibre optic illumination systems, Moritex can provide a complete security vision system to exactly match an application.

Class of its own

From JVC comes the Super Lo Lux TK-C1480E, a half-inch high-resolution CCD camera with 480 TV lines and high-quality images in light as low as 0.4 lux with minimal noise (0.0125 lux with slow shutter). The manufacturer says it is a serious camera, designed for critical applications where quality and reliability are the watchwords. It comes with additional features such as EXDR (extended dynamic range), a slow shutter for minimum illumination, RS422/485 control and motion detection. Our Bench Testers reported last December: “The C1480’s performance in normal conditions would be enough justification for shortlisting it. But the combination of extreme low light sensitivity and a highly configurable exposure system – and the excellent motion detector facility – puts it in a class of its own. “As with its predecessors, it should prove to be a real problem-solver.”

Day/night board cam

A day and night camera, fully compatible with the range of Pecan CCTV cameras and components, is now available from Stortech Electronics. Designed to deliver simple, cost effective integration and upgrading with existing Pecan systems, the miniature camera is said to give superior performance in variable light conditions. The VPC 795 DN PCB camera is suitable for mini-dome, covert surveillance and specialist applications. Its 42 x 4mm size makes it ‘ideal’ for size critical installations, says the company. It incorporates a miniature automatic IR cut filter resulting in colour images in daylight and automatically switches to mono when illumination drops, down to a minimum of 0.01lux. It is fitted with a Sony Ex-view CCD chip providing digital zoom up to four times original size.

Source

Security Installer