HD Security Cameras

The two small images below look very similar in quality due to their size. However clicking on them to view their full size image reveals just how much more clarity the HD security camera provides. Also notice that the standard high resolution image stretches objects such as the base of the palm tree. This is because standard cameras are 4:3 aspect ratio and not 16:9, so when viewed on HD TVs or monitors the image is stretched to fill the screen.
Standard High Resolution - click image to see full size		HD 1080p Resolution - click image to see full size

What is a HD Security Camera

HD (High Definition) security cameras provide far greater resolution than standard CCTV cameras and are much more affordable than you may think. With the ever growing and evolving surveillance market we are always looking for new ways to improve products and and give consumers more value for their money. We have partnered with a number of manufactures that have begun producing high definition surveillance cameras at standard analog pricing and will be continually adding new products as they become available. There can be some confusion about what is a HD security camera since many websites will use the term high resolution or HD to describe even their basic camera. For a CCTV camera to be a true high definition or HD camera it will need to be progressive scan and have a rating of at least 1080p or 2 mega pixel (2MP). Don't be fooled by terms such as 800 TVL or 1000 TVL high resolution as these are still standard interlace images with 4:3 aspect ratios and the video recording devices can only record 700 TVL maximum.

These HD security cameras have BNC outputs just like traditional cameras but the output is HD analog and will need to be used with HD Video Recorders to view and record the images. We offer HD security cameras in the different formats including HD-TVI, AHD and CVI. Each format must be used with their corresponding video recorder or with the newer Hybrid DVRs which can display and record multiple HD formats. Since each format produces far greater image quality then standard analog cameras deciding on which format to use is basically a matter of which one has the cameras available for your particular needs. As always if you have questions about any of our surveillance equipment don't hesitate to contact us by phone or email and we'll be happy to help..

When choosing a HD security camera most of the same questions need to be considered just as with standard resolution cameras. For example what is the size of the area to be monitored otherwise known as field of view. This will determine the size of the lens needed, for general overall coverage of a large area a wide angle lens of 2.8 to 4mm is best. If you are more concerned with greater details of objects or people further than 40 feet or so from the camera a larger lens such as a 6mm or 8mm lens would be a better choice. Many cameras on the market today offer varifocal lenses which allow the user to adjust the zoom and focus to the desired view. Also with our 8MP 4k cameras you can use a wider angle lens setting which allows for greater coverage and be able to zoom into the image area for better details if needed. This is possible since the amount of pixels comprising the image is much greater than with traditional 1080p cameras so pixelation doesn't occur as quickly.

Night Vision is also an important aspect to compare since most suspicious activities seem to occur after dark. IR (infrared) distance ratings are the maximum distance an object can be illuminated from the camera, but as with any light source the closer you get to its maximum range the less light will reach the object. So it is best to select a camera with a little more infrared distance than you need.

Below are some image examples between standard CCTV images and HD camera images
Click on images for full view