CCTV & Security
CCTV cameras, DVR and NVR recorders and security equipment.
37 products available
How to choose a CCTV and security system
A well-planned CCTV system deters crime and gives you evidence if something happens. The right system depends on how many areas you need to cover, the lighting and whether you want to view footage remotely.
Camera resolution and type
2MP (1080p) cameras are enough for general monitoring. 4MP and higher show more detail for number plates and faces at a distance. Dome cameras suit indoors and covered areas, and bullet cameras with weatherproofing suit outdoor walls and perimeters.
Night vision and lighting
Infrared night vision shows black and white images in the dark. Cameras with colour night vision or built-in lights give colour footage at night. Think about where lights already exist, and place cameras so they do not face directly into bright lights.
Recorder and storage
An NVR (for IP cameras) or DVR (for analogue cameras) records the footage to a hard drive. Choose a recorder with enough channels for all your cameras, and a hard drive big enough for the number of days of footage you want to keep. Surveillance-rated drives are built for continuous recording.
Power, cabling and remote viewing
PoE cameras need a single network cable for both power and video. Most modern recorders allow viewing from a phone app over the internet. Keep the recorder on a UPS or backup power so recording continues during load-shedding.
Frequently asked questions
- How many cameras do I need?
- Cover entrances, driveways and blind spots first. A typical home uses 4 cameras, and a small business often needs 8 or more.
- Can I view the cameras on my phone?
- Yes. Most current recorders and IP cameras include a phone app for live and recorded viewing over the internet.
- Does CCTV work during load-shedding?
- Only if the cameras, recorder and router stay powered. A UPS or inverter keeps the system recording.
- Do you install CCTV?
- Contact us with your requirements and we will advise on the equipment you need.
Related guides, parts and services
- → Networking — switches, PoE and routers
- → UPS units — keep recording during power cuts
- → Inverters — backup power
- → Contact us — advice on a system for your site
Not sure what you need? Contact us with your laptop model number and we will help.