AdamW

Hi Cubit, I really don't want to get into an argument about this, it was not my intention when asking the questions. As I see it, and please correct me if I am wrong, but the following analogy applies: When you go into a electronics store to buy a new DVD player, you don't have to be an expert in the latest technology, in fact which technology suits your personal needs the most (be it cost/image quality/sound etc etc), to be able to go home and connect the system up and for it to run without any problems I see the above being relevant to my requirement. I am competent to connect a system up, whether it be plug and play or requires some form of setup, but my knowledge of the individual components is lacking. I'm now realising that i'm unlikely to get a helpful response anymore to my queries, which is a shame. I also do not understand the attitude of not wanting to help, as it will result in the decline of the UK security industry?! As previously mentioned in my industry (or life in general) if someone is after a bit of advice I am more than willing to help. When they start wanting complete projects to be completed then that then requires some form of agreement, but that is not the case here. Thanks for the help so far though, I can take it elsewhere to get the final queries answered.

Hi George, Apologies if my questions have caused offence. It was my understanding that a forum is a place for open discussion and for questions to be asked with the intent of a useful reply. I was merely asking for advice on CCTV system components. The fact that I am looking to install myself should not be a negative. I am actually very confident in my ability to do so, but lack the knowledge of the specific components required. As it happens I regularly share knowledge and advice for free with others. Had I asked for someone to spec, install and maintain the system I could understand your response, but merely asking for advice seems ok to me.

EMSGeorge, thanks for the info. It may be easier if I list the function and maybe you can suggest suitable products? - IP Camera - Whats reasonable without going over the top and ultra HD etc? - DVR/NVR - Which is better? From my limited knowledge NVR is better as it can be networked to view from anywhere? How is the data actually stored and how can it be accessed? How long can these store video for? Most occasions it will be 2 weeks away, but if it was 4 weeks how can this duration be stored? A system that overwrites once full is fine, but I would not want it to overwrite any potential evidence should an incidence occur. - Cabling - You mention cat5/6 - benefit of this rating? - Camera psu - What is this for? - hdmi / dvi monitor - Assume this is for live viewing. Im not actually too concerned with this feature, unless it is actually a requirement for any system to function correctly? As long as I can play back through PC at a later stage that is fine - Network switch - What is this for? Apologies for the seemingly obvious questions, but being new to the world of CCTV I would like to understand whats best for my requirements and what each piece of the jigsaw does.

Data, what do you mean by your last comment?

Thanks for the response. Can you provide details of components to make up such a system?

Ok thanks Cubit. That is what I thought, just wanted confirmation. In some ways I can understand the 'feel good factor', as if there is no LED's flashing, then it could just signal a dummy box. Any idea on the split of flashing/non flashing systems?

Hi Cubit, Thanks for the reply. I guess I was concerned that if the LED's flash all the time, then it may signal a potential intruder that the system is dummy, as it could represent a 'live' system, even if the property is clearly occupied. Given you have confirmed that LED's must always flash, then that is fine. All new systems going in now will have to follow this regulation. Out of interest, can there be no LED's flashing, and then just the strobe when set off?

Hi All, Alongside a new alarm system, I am looking to install CCTV at my residential property. I have never installed a CCTV system before and to be honest I am not up to speed with the systems. Any pointers on useful reading would be great! I have done a reasonable amount of Googling to understand the requirements and pros/cons of different systems but though I would come here for some specific advice. The system I am looking to install will comprise of 2 (possibly 4) outdoor mounted cameras. I have a preference for Dome style cameras. I am not looking for ultra high definition, but a setup which is clear at both day and night is required, with 'good' video quality. This is subjective of course, so what I essentially mean is video that can actually be used to identify intruders (if face visible of course) and not a grainy, unusable image. I would like the ability to remote live view the cameras, but this is not essential, just a nice to have feature. What I actually require is a system that is capable of recording and storing and event/s for a prolonged period of time. As I understand it I require the cameras, a form of recording device (DVR) and cabling. Is there anything else required? Budget - Not massive, but not super cheap either. Is anyone able to offer advice on the type of systems that would suit these requirements? Any help and advice would be much appreciated.

Hi thanks for the reply. So are you saying that the LED's are not allowed to flash constantly? They have indicated that their system has continuous flashing LED's (even if system off, e.g. house is occupied) and then when the alarm is triggered the strobe lights flash.

Hi, First of all I am new here so I hope I have posted this in the correct Forum. I am looking into having a new residential alarm system installed in the UK, and I have been informed by a reputable local installer that there is a European standard that govens the flashing of the LED's on the bell boxes. Apparently the LED's must flash at all times, regardless of whether the system is set or not? Is this the case? I have tried finding this information on Google with no luck, so any help you could offer would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.