Understanding CCTV Camera Types — A Guide for South African Homeowners
By JD Gates Pretoria | Security Guide | Published: 8 October 2024
Choosing the right CCTV camera type ensures you get the best image quality and coverage for your Pretoria property. This guide explains the most common camera types installed by JD Gates.
Bullet Cameras
Long, cylindrical cameras designed for fixed-direction surveillance. Ideal for monitoring driveways, gates, and building perimeters. Weatherproof (IP66) and available with IR night vision or full-colour starlight sensors. Most common camera type for residential gate monitoring.
Dome Cameras
Vandal-resistant cameras mounted flush to ceilings or walls. The dome housing obscures the camera direction — a deterrent feature. Ideal for interior spaces, garages, and areas where tamper resistance is important.
PTZ Cameras (Pan-Tilt-Zoom)
Motorised cameras that can pan, tilt, and zoom under remote control or automated triggers. Ideal for large outdoor areas, car parks, or commercial perimeters where a single camera needs to cover a wide area. Higher cost than fixed cameras.
IP Cameras vs Analogue HD (HDCVI/AHD)
IP cameras transmit digital data over structured Cat5e/Cat6 cable and offer resolutions from 2 MP to 12 MP. Analogue HD cameras use RG59 coaxial cable and deliver 1080p to 4 MP resolution — suitable for retrofitting existing cable infrastructure without rewiring. JD Gates recommends IP camera systems for new installations. Call 012 012 6285 for a free CCTV assessment in Pretoria.