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Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a video surveillance system that sends camera images to a limited set of intended viewers or connected equipment, usually for monitoring and often recording. “Closed circuit” means the images are not sent as a public broadcast; it does not mean every modern system uses dedicated cables or one central monitor.
What does CCTV stand for?
CCTV stands for closed-circuit television. In everyday use, the term often refers to video surveillance generally, including the cameras and equipment used to view, transmit, record, or store images. Public Safety Canada notes that CCTV now serves as a generic term for a variety of video surveillance technologies: Public Safety Canada’s explanatory report.
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Why is it called “closed circuit”?
The phrase describes who or what receives the camera feed: selected connected viewers or equipment, rather than anyone with access to a public broadcast. UK government guidance defines CCTV as overt cameras transmitting images to a specific, limited number of televisions on the same network or circuit, primarily for surveillance and security purposes: UK government guidance on surveillance camera systems.
The “circuit” need not be a literal loop of cable. System layouts vary, and contemporary installations can use network connections and remote monitoring. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) describes systems ranging from a single camera connected to a monitor to networked systems that can monitor and control many cameras locally or remotely: RCMP guide to CCTV/CCTV equipment systems (2024).
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What does a CCTV system include?
A CCTV system is more than a camera. Depending on its purpose and design, it may include:
- Cameras that capture a scene and convert it into a signal for transmission.
- Viewing equipment, such as monitors or other devices used to see the images.
- Recording equipment to capture footage for later review.
- Transmission, network, and storage technologies that move or retain the images.
A simple arrangement might connect one camera to one monitor. A larger installation may link many cameras to networked viewing and recording equipment, with local or remote access. The right setup depends on the site, intended use, environment, and existing infrastructure; there is no single layout that fits every installation.
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- Tried-and-True Safe Guard – This one-stop security solution can work with TVI, AHD, CVI, CVBS & IP cameras, the kit includes 1080P cams. The 8CH 3K lite DVR can hook up with 1080P@30fps or 3K/5MP@20fps cams. Therefore, you can also DIY it with other cameras in your home.
- Reliable 24/7 Continuous Recording – With a pre-installed 1TB HDD(Support up to 10TB HDD), providing 24/7 surveillance recording for you. Upgraded H.265+ saves more storage space and uses less bandwidth, recording videos longer and smoother viewing.
- Smart Dual-Light Effectively Guard Your Home – This newly upgraded security system offers you a crisp full color night vision, IR mode and color night vision switch flexibly. Once detect intruders, immediate pushes pop up on your phone, securing your peace of mind day&night.
- Color Night Vision & IP67 Weatherproof – Built-in IR lights and white lights, these cameras can see up to 100ft in B&W night vision, full-color night vision up to 66ft. Rated IP67, these wired cameras can brave all weather, and stand from cold to hot.
What is CCTV used for?
CCTV is used to monitor spaces for surveillance and security purposes. UK government guidance gives examples such as detecting threats to safety or security, detecting crime, preventing escape, and monitoring the movement of people and vehicles through secure areas. These are examples of possible purposes, not a guarantee that cameras will prevent crime.
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- 【AI Motion Detection 2.0】Driving AI to the next level, human&vehicle detection, flexible detection area are more accurate than before. For quicker locating in crucial moments, human&vehicle smart searching in recordings offers you great help
- 【Reliable 24/7 Continuous Recording】With a pre-installed 1TB HDD(Support up to 10TB HDD), providing 24/7 surveillance recording for you. Upgraded H.265+ saves more storage space and uses less bandwidth, recording videos longer and smoother viewing.
- 【Smart Dual-Light Effectively Guard Your Home】This newly upgraded security system offers you a crisp full color night vision, IR mode and color night vision switch flexibly. Once detect intruders, immediate pushes pop up on your phone, securing your peace of mind day&night.
- 【Color Night Vision & IP67 Weatherproof】Built-in IR lights and white lights, these cameras can see up to 100ft in B&W night vision, full-color night vision up to 66ft. Rated IP67, these wired cameras can brave all weather, and stand from cold to hot.
In its guidance for facility security, the RCMP cautions that CCTV does not prevent intrusions, criminal activity, espionage, or violent incidents from occurring in or near the facilities discussed. It is a monitoring tool, not a guarantee of prevention.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does CCTV have a specific legal meaning?
The meaning can vary by context. In ordinary conversation, CCTV is often used interchangeably with “video surveillance.” Legal definitions may cover more than traditional cameras and monitors.
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- HDD Storage and Remote Playback – Including a pre-installed 2TB HDD, videos can be recorded and stored for ten days without overwriting occurring. Users can add one additional external 8TB HDD via the camera’s e-SATA port. With the free Reolink app, all videos can be played back through your smart device anywhere, anytime.
For example, the UK’s Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, section 29, defines a broader category called “surveillance camera systems.” It includes CCTV and automatic number plate recognition systems, other systems for recording or viewing visual images for surveillance, and connected systems that store, receive, transmit, process, or check those images. This is a UK statutory definition; it should not be treated as the law in other countries.
The RCMP guide uses CCTV as a convenient term for electronic surveillance systems made up of cameras, monitors, recording equipment, and related technologies. Agencies may use other terminology suited to their needs.
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- Pre-installed 500GB Hard Drive: The DVR comes with a 500GB HDD for 24/7 continuous recording. Choose from multiple recording modes for each camera and easily play back or download footage via USB for backup when needed
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