Function

• Having a video surveillance system can be used for different functions. The functions will mainly depend on whether you intend to use the video surveillance at your home or work. At home it can be used to monitor goings-on inside and outside of your house, as well as be a protection for when you are away or asleep. At the job, it can be useful for any robberies or concerns with dishonest employees.
  
  

Identification

• When installing a video surveillance device, the type that you purchase could have an effect on what you are looking for. Obvious video cameras, mounted in the corner with a blinking red light, can help deter any potential robberies before they occur, but hidden cameras can capture true moments that you may not see if you not are focused on robberies.
  
  

Types

• Video surveillance cameras can be as simple as a camera connected to a location or a hidden spy camera disguised as something else. The type of surveillance you are looking for could be affected by price as well. For example, if you want a cheaper surveillance system then you should purchase a black and white surveillance system without any sound or night vision capabilities. More advanced surveillance systems will feature color, sound, night vision and multiple angles.
  
  

Features

• Older surveillance systems capture all of the footage using a time-lapse tape recorder. Now you can still use those tape recorders or record directly to a hard drive using a Surveillance DVR or a computer that the cameras are connected directly to. You could have live video feeds using wireless video baby monitors that will show the action instead of just displaying the audio as well.
  
  

Considerations

• If you do not have the money to have a professional surveillance system installed, then you can create one of your own. The only thing you will need to purchase is a time lapse DVR, VCR, or another capture device as long as you have your own video camera. Mount the video camera where you want to capture the footage. Make sure that the camera is plugged into a power source, because running it on battery power will cause the camera to shut off. Run RCA or S-video cables out from the camera and run them until they reach the capture device or video monitor. Record as needed and make sure your camera is protected from weather if it is placed outside.