Your Guide to Security Surveillance
🛠️ How a Surveillance Camera System Works
A modern security camera system includes four key components:
- Recorder (NVR) – The central unit that powers and connects the cameras.
- Hard Drive (HDD) – Installed inside the recorder, this stores your footage.
- Surveillance Cameras – Devices that capture video and audio.
- Ethernet Cables – Connect the cameras to the recorder for power and data.
In addition, there are also these add-ons to enhance overall functionality:
- Intercom Kit – Allows 2-way audio with visitors via your phone or monitor.
- Wireless Kit – Another layer of security and safety devices, including sensors and alarms.
📦 Components Explained
🔌 Network Video Recorder (NVR)
The NVR is the brain of the system. It connects to your cameras, powers them, and stores your video footage. Each NVR has a set number of "channels"—each one supports a single camera. It's the only component that needs to be plugged into a power outlet.
💾 Hard Drive (HDD)
A surveillance-grade HDD will be installed in the NVR to store recorded video. These drives are designed for 24/7 operation, optimised for constant reading and writing without failure. All our systems come with pre-installed, high-reliability drives suited for security footage.
📸 Security Cameras
We offer a range of camera options, but turret-style cameras are the most popular due to their sleek design, wide coverage, and ease of maintenance. There are many types of cameras, but the main ones can be divided into two.
🟡 Standard Cameras
These cameras strike a great balance between resolution and price. They typically include smart motion detection (for people and vehicles), built-in microphones for audio, and advanced night vision using "low-light" technology for low-light colour recording.
🔴 Alarm Cameras
Our most advanced option. These include all the features of the standard cameras, plus:
- Built-in alarm sirens and flashing strobe lights to ward off intruders.
- White LEDs that activate on motion, allowing full-colour recording even in darkness.
- Two-way audio (you can speak and listen through the camera via app or browser).
🌙 How Night Vision Works
Security cameras adjust automatically to different lighting conditions:
- Well-lit areas → Full-colour recording
- Low light → Cameras switch to infrared (black & white), unless they have "Starlight" for extended colour vision
- No light → Infrared mode activates. Alarm cameras with built-in LEDs will light up the area and continue recording in colour when motion is detected.
Even in complete darkness, these features help ensure you get relevant, high-detail footage when it matters most.
🧠 Smart Detection & Behaviour
Most of our cameras support AI-based Smart Motion Detection (SMD) to reduce false alerts (like trees swaying or bugs flying). Here's how two different types of cameras behave in the same situation:
Tip: For cost-efficiency, we recommend using standard cameras throughout the property, and adding 1–2 active deterrent cameras for key entry points or hotspots.
🔌 Cables & Mounts
Each camera connects to the NVR using CAT6 Ethernet cables. These aren’t included in kits because lengths vary by installation. Your installer will usually supply and cut them to size on-site. You can also find them at most tech or hardware stores.
Most cameras mount directly to walls or ceilings without additional hardware. Optional mounting brackets are available if needed—for example, when hiding cables or installing in awkward angles.
🗣️ Concierge – Intercom Add-On
Concierge is a front-door communication upgrade. It allows 2-way talk between visitors and your phone or an indoor monitor—ideal for managing deliveries, guests, or securing a gated entrance. The intercom station mounts at your entry point and connects to your network. It's a great fit for homes, apartments, or small businesses looking to add convenience and access control.
🛡️ Perimeter – Alarm Add-On
Perimeter is a wireless alarm system designed to protect the inside of your property. It may include sensors like PIR motion detectors, glass break sensors, smoke and fire alarms, and more. These devices quietly monitor interior spaces and trigger alerts without sounding loud sirens unless configured to do so. Perimeter is best used alongside your camera system to cover blind spots and provide early warnings.
🎁 Pre-Made Kits
We offer pre-configured kits that include all the essentials (NVR, cameras, and hard drive). You can choose from:
- Observer Kits is a surveillance-only system that captures video and audio footage.
- Guardian Kits is a mix of surveillance and alarm-capable cameras designed to maximise features while maintaining affordability.
- Sentinel Kits is a 100% alarm-capable system for a fully protected home or business. Not only would you be alerted, but the alarms would discourage further attempts. These are the best that a brand can offer.
- Concierge is an intercom kit add-on that allows 2-way talk to your phone or an indoor monitor.
- Perimeter is a wireless kit add-on that may include glass break sensors, PIR sensors, smoke and fire alarms, etc.
Need help choosing? Reach out for a free online consultation—we’ll help you select the right setup for your home or business.