Dome Cameras
Two security camera system technologies are used for imaging in board cameras: CCD and CMOS. CCD stands for charged coupled display and it is also used for imaging in a fixed security camera system. The CCD converts light into electricity that represents picture information. Common CCD sizes are 1/3" and ¼". 1/3" is currently the standard but larger sizes, such as 2/3" and ½" do exist. CMOS stands for Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor. It also converts light to electricity but CMOS offers greater integration of functions, allowing for smaller overall size, and can operate at lower power requirements. The tradeoff has been at the expense of image quality. With modern security camera system technology, however, lines have been blurred as CCD cameras have lowered their power requirements and the image quality of CMOS chips have gotten better.
Most board cameras are plug_and_play, allowing them to connect directly to a TV or VCR. They operate using an AC adapter or batteries as a power supply.