Video surveillance systems provide business owners and law enforcement with an extra set of eyes to capture any activity in and around the business. The system that you install can vary greatly depending on the area involved and the level of supervision required.

In the past, video surveillance systems recorded video in the form of analog signals which were recorded onto cassettes. These tapes are then stored and viewed as needed by the business owner or law enforcement officer. You can also avail the services of video observation cameras to protect your home from the threat.

At present, digital video is standard. This allows videos to be recorded to digital storage devices in the same way as data from a computer-stored on the hard drive. This allows a large amount of data or video to be stored in a much smaller area and a much higher quality video.

Video in a video surveillance system can come with and without sound. A more sophisticated system offers color video in high definition.

When choosing a video surveillance camera, you have to decide what the camera's intended purpose is. Whether you are trying to solve a particular problem or just need general security monitoring will largely determine the type of camera you need and the overall scope and complexity of the system.

One of the first considerations is whether you want your video surveillance camera to be seen. Some businesses prefer that the camera is clearly displayed as a deterrent for people who might intend to steal.

Others like the idea of a hidden camera that blends with the decoration or background and doesn't attract attention. Pinhole cameras are wise cameras and are much smaller in size. These cameras can be hidden in public objects that may be scattered around the room.