Camera lens types and how to pick them.

How to pick lens types: 

Most camera kits are fixed at 2.8mm or 4mm which is a wide angle view. It depends on what you need to see and how far away it is. Often I will recommend a verifocal lens so you can have it adjusted to get the view you want. 2.8-12mm is a common one and if you are mounting a camera on a building or pole to look at something far away then a 5mm-50mm may be a better decision.  

If you are looking at a large parking lot with a 2.8mm lens people will appear very small. It is best to have several cameras looking at the lot in sections. Even with HD high resolution cameras it is still prudent to place cameras accordingly. 

What features do I really need?

Many cameras claim to have it all and often it is best to pick specific cameras. AXIS cameras offer entry level , mid range and high end and depending on what you need you can even load software into the cameras with apps. Many cameras come with storage cards in the cameras

What is WDR and do I need it?  WDR Wide Dynamic Range will help if you have a glass door with a reflection or a lighting issue. Depending on what the camera is looking at it may be best to have this feature. We try not to install south facing cameras but if you have one looking out a door it is best to get WDR for that camera. 

What is the difference between 500TVL and 2.1MP and 4MP etc...

500TVL is 500,000 lines and 2.1 is 2 million lines so it can be up to 4 times the resolution. 

Check back for more information and future blogs about cameras. 

Call Larry Love (801) 898 6003 Larry.Love@JCI.com