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Ascertaining when to use a CS-Mount Camera in your Security Application

December 26, 2009 by Jessica Sparks  

C-mount security cameras (or cs mount security cameras, as they are sometimes called) were the first security cameras and defined the industry. In 1970’s and 1980’s, c-mount camera were invented, but they were simply known as security cameras because cs-mount cameras were the only type available. The iconic boxy c-mount type was necessary because in the 70’s the circuit boards and other internal items in cameras were still very large. As technology has improved over time, security cameras were able to get much smaller and the bullet camera construction has begun to define the idea of a security camera.

C-mount security cameras are still some of the most technologically advanced security cameras around, as their size allows them to always support the latest chip sets before other security cameras. As with all technological advances, when a new lens is developed the first goal is to prove it is possible, and the second step it to make it smaller. Because of this process, cs-mount camera are always the first style of security camera to be able to use a new technological advance. Right now, that technology is 1/2 inch chip sets. The majority of other security cameras can only use 1/3 or 1/4 inch lenses. The size of the chip set is important as it defines two things: how well the surveillance camera can see in low level lighting conditions and the maximum resolution of the camera.

CS-mount surveillance cameras are very effective when used in interior security setups, but face challenges when used outside. To be used outside, c-mount surveillance cameras need special mounting brackets to fix them on outdoor walls and housings to protect cs-mount cameras from the the environment.

Every cs-mount cameras has a varying ability to see in low lighting conditions. To know how well the camera works in low lighting conditions, you will need to consider it’s lux rating. A lower lux rating means that the camera will be able to operate better in lower light. Because c-mount surveillance cameras can deliver color video in poor lighting conditions, cs-mount security cameras are especially valued in crime-fighting and government operations. Lower lux ratings usually correlate with more expensive machines.

When shopping for a c-mount security camera, it is important to not overlook that they do not come with a lens, which makes them both initially more expensive and more adaptable. Having a greater initial cost does not tell the whole story, however, as most cs-mount cameras become far cheaper in the long run. The reason for this is that often a c-mount camera can be repositioned in a security setup that has changed simply by buying a new lens rather than having to buy a new camera.

The largest drawback of a cs-mount security camera is their difficulty in being used outdoors. If you want to use a c-mount camera outdoors, you will need a c-mount housing, which will give it protection from rain, wind, and the elements. Another piece of equipment you will need is a mounting bracket, so that it can be affixed wherever it is needed. Particular housings come equipped with heaters and blowers so that they can be used in the very high and low temperatures.

Besides being able to employ the newest technological advances first, the construction of cs-mount surveillance cameras also have another benefit. They are blatantly obvious. Many banks and large businesses employ cs-mount security cameras simply because they send the obvious message that would be thieves are being recorded.

In conclusion, c-mount surveillance cameras have the highest quality of any surveillance camera, but lack the constitution to be used outdoors without additional parts. They make excellent indoor security cameras, but should only be attempted outdoors if the security application calls for color video in poor light, or if the increased quality recording outweigh the difficulty of insuring their environment. Finally, if you want to send the message “you are being observed” there is no better security camera that cs-mount cameras.

We hope you appreciated our guide on c-mount camerasand CCTV.


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