When video surveillance systems were first used, they were primarily used by businesses. However, in more recent times, they are becoming increasingly common in peoples houses. The systems have now also become known as Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) and are utilized to keep an eye on certain regions around the house and help to guard it from robbers and intruders.

The screen is a key feature to the setup of video surveillance. The screen will feed the video from the cameras that make up the system. The screens, otherwise known as the monitors, are normally black and white and feature a higher resolution than that of a standard TV set. Although the standard resolution is between 500 and 1000 lines, monitors do vary in size and resolution.

The actual cameras are also very important. When setting up the home video surveillance system, the cameras are placed strategically around the outside of the home, in the most vulnerable areas. They should be set up in areas where they are nearly impossible to see. The cameras are always working, sending the video transmissions to the monitors on a frequently.

Another must have for video surveillance systems is coaxial cables. The coaxial cables are what transfers the video signals from the camera to the monitor. The cables are available in a variety of sizes. You can find them at a local electronics store in your area. Your home video surveillance system will come with coaxial cables, although you may need more depending on where you plan to set up the cameras.

Another key ingredient are the switchers that home video surveillance systems use. Switchers allow you to run multiple camera feeds to one monitor. Normally, a switcher will cycle through feeds unless it detects movement going on around a camera. When the switcher detects any type of movement, it will automatically lock in to the camera that has sensed it.

There are some video surveillance systems that you can get for the home that make full use of VCRs. These systems will use the VCR to record any live video feed that you program. This can come in handy if you travel a lot, as the VCR can capture a break in as it happens. If you end up going to court or to the police, you can use the video tape as evidence. VCRs can catch burglars in the act - especially if you set the camera up to a location that is well hidden.

Using the combination of a screen and video camera, home video surveillance systems can easily catch burglaries and break-ins. They are very reasonably priced in recent times, and used in thousands of houses all over the world. If you've been looking for the best way to safeguard your house - a home video surveillance system is something you ought to investigate without delay.