0-9

360-degree camera

A 360-degree security camera gives a full panoramic view, so one camera can cover an entire room. Dewarping and multiple camera streams make the image easy to use; check the licences when you integrate it into a video management system.

4G CCTV

4G CCTV works where there is no fixed internet connection, such as building sites, remote sites and temporary locations. Live view, notifications and storage all run over the 4G network.

A

Access control

Access control determines who can enter buildings and sites, using card readers or biometrics. It can be linked to CCTV and number plate recognition.

AJAX BulletCam

The AJAX BulletCam is a weatherproof IP security camera for professional use. It combines a sharp image with seamless integration into the AJAX system.

AJAX Curtain Outdoor

The AJAX Curtain Outdoor is a compact motion detector for outdoor protection of windows, doors, fences and narrow passages. Digital signal processing and masking detection keep it accurate.

AJAX Desktop

AJAX Desktop is the desktop application for Windows and macOS. Installers, security companies and system administrators use it to manage AJAX systems centrally.

AJAX DomeCam Mini

The AJAX DomeCam Mini is a compact IP camera with AI recognition that integrates with the AJAX security system. It suits offices, warehouses, healthcare settings and homes.

AJAX DoorBell

The AJAX DoorBell is a smart video doorbell that combines image, sound and motion detection. It also works as a security camera and integrates with the AJAX security system.

AJAX Fibra

AJAX Fibra is the wired version of the AJAX alarm system. Wired Fibra detectors, sirens and keypads connect to a hub that supports Fibra, such as the AJAX Hub Hybrid, so you combine a wired system with the AJAX app.

AJAX FireProtect

The AJAX FireProtect is a wireless fire detector for early detection of smoke, heat and carbon monoxide (CO). Fast alerts can save lives.

AJAX HomeSiren

The AJAX HomeSiren is a wireless indoor siren that draws immediate attention during a break-in attempt or other emergency. It integrates seamlessly with the AJAX security system and is easy to place in any room.

AJAX Hub Hybrid

The AJAX Hub Hybrid is an alarm control panel for both wireless and wired security. It supports the wireless Jeweller and Wings protocols, wired Fibra devices (up to 100), photo verification and a backup battery.

AJAX Jeweller

AJAX Jeweller is the wireless communication protocol of AJAX Systems on 868 MHz. It provides fast, encrypted and stable communication between the hub and the devices.

AJAX KeyPad

The AJAX KeyPad is a wireless keypad for the AJAX security system. You use it to arm and disarm the alarm, activate zones and send panic alerts.

AJAX LeaksProtect

The AJAX LeaksProtect is a compact wireless flood detector that helps prevent water damage at an early stage. On contact with water, it immediately raises an alarm in the AJAX security system.

AJAX MotionCam Outdoor

The AJAX MotionCam Outdoor combines outdoor motion detection with real-time photo verification. Its robust design makes it suitable for professional outdoor security.

AJAX MotionProtect

The AJAX MotionProtect is a wireless motion detector that detects intruders accurately without reacting to pets or draughts.

AJAX network video recorder

The AJAX network video recorder (NVR) manages and stores camera footage and lets you view it remotely. It works directly with the AJAX alarm system.

AJAX Relay

The AJAX Relay is a compact wireless relay that switches electrical circuits remotely within an AJAX security system. It automates devices such as gates, locks and lighting.

AJAX ReX2

The AJAX ReX2 is a range extender for the AJAX alarm system that considerably increases the range of wireless communication. This makes the system usable in large buildings, extensive sites and remote locations.

AJAX StreetSiren

The AJAX StreetSiren is a powerful wireless outdoor siren that sounds immediately during a break-in, tamper attempt or other emergency. Its loud sound and clear LED indicator make the security system more visible.

AJAX Superior

AJAX Superior is the latest product line of AJAX Systems for professional intrusion detection. It carries certifications for certified installations in Europe.

AJAX TurretCam

The AJAX TurretCam is a wired IP security camera for both residential and business use. It has built-in AI functions and a strong focus on privacy and security.

AJAX WallSwitch

The AJAX WallSwitch is a compact wireless switching module that turns 230 V electrical devices on and off remotely. It is part of the AJAX range for comfort and automation.

AJAX Wings

AJAX Wings is the wireless AJAX protocol on 868 MHz that, together with Jeweller, reliably transmits photos with alarm notifications. This allows users, installers and the alarm receiving centre to verify an alarm visually.

Alarm system

An alarm system, also called an intruder alarm or alarm installation, detects movement while it is armed. There are many types, brands and versions of alarm systems.

ATEX security camera

An ATEX security camera is designed to work safely in environments with an increased risk of explosion. These cameras comply with the European ATEX directives and are certified for use in potentially explosive zones.

Auto tracking white balance

Auto tracking white balance (ATW) continuously adjusts a security camera's white balance to changing light. White stays white, so colours remain true to life, even when daylight changes to artificial light.

Auto-tracking PTZ

Auto-tracking is a smart function in PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) security cameras that follows moving objects automatically. The camera detects a person or vehicle by itself and follows it in real time, without an operator.

Automatic gain control

Automatic gain control (AGC) is a function in modern security cameras that adjusts automatically to changing light conditions. It keeps images clear, even when there is little ambient light.

Axis

Axis Communications is a leading global manufacturer of professional security cameras, video software and video analytics. It is a pioneer in IP surveillance technology.

Axis Zipstream

Axis Zipstream is a video compression algorithm from Axis Communications. It considerably reduces bandwidth and storage use while keeping important details.

B

Backlight compensation

Backlight compensation (BLC) compensates for backlight in IP camera images. Details stay visible and the image remains balanced.

Bitrate

Bitrate determines the image quality of camera streams. The right setting depends on how the bit rate relates to video compression and bandwidth.

Bullet security camera

A bullet security camera is an elongated, cylindrical camera. Businesses and homeowners like it for its versatility, and its visibility is a strong deterrent.

C

Camera footage

Camera footage is at the heart of every surveillance system. It is created by security cameras and stored and used for surveillance, security and monitoring of property.

Camera security recording

A camera security recording is footage stored on a network video recorder (NVR), digital video recorder (DVR) or SD card, and can serve as evidence. Its quality depends on resolution, frames per second and storage capacity.

Camera security software

Camera security software shows live view, manages recordings and runs analytics such as motion detection and facial recognition. Examples are Milestone XProtect and Genetec.

Camera server

A camera server processes and stores video footage, on-premise or in the cloud. Each option has pros and cons; legislation and the choice between configuring it yourself or a ready-made solution also play a role.

Card reader (access control)

A card reader reads the data on a card, tag or other credential and passes it on to a door controller, which decides whether to grant access.

CCTV

CCTV is the use of security cameras to monitor a building or site, view live footage and record footage for later review.

CCTV app

With a CCTV app, you view and control your security cameras remotely on your phone or computer. It offers live view, playback and alarm notifications.

CCTV installation

CCTV installation covers the design, installation and setup of a camera security system, from cameras and cabling to recorder and software.

CCTV systems

A CCTV system combines security cameras, a recorder or video management software and the network that connects them, so you can watch and record footage.

Cell corner security camera

A cell corner camera is made for closed environments such as police cells, prisons and psychiatric institutions. It fits tightly into a 90-degree corner, usually between the ceiling and two walls, which makes tampering almost impossible.

CMOS image sensor

CMOS image sensors drive modern security cameras. They use little power and perform well in varying light; the sensor also relates to the number of megapixels.

D

Dahua

Dahua Technology is a global manufacturer of security solutions and IoT technology, from CCTV systems to intelligent access control.

Dahua Full Color

Dahua Full Color 2.0 delivers colour images 24/7, even in low light. Details are easier to recognise than in black and white.

Dahua SmartPSS

Dahua SmartPSS is a free application from Dahua for live view and playback of CCTV systems. You can also apply video analytics and store footage.

Digital noise reduction

Digital noise reduction (DNR) suppresses noise in video images, especially in low light. Security cameras use 2D DNR and 3D DNR.

Digital video recorder

A digital video recorder (DVR), also called a hard disk recorder, records analogue cameras, including HD over coax. A network video recorder (NVR) records IP cameras.

Door contact

A door contact (for a door or window) uses a magnet and a reed switch to detect whether a door or window is open, and reports this to the alarm system.

Door controller (access control)

An electronic door controller controls, monitors and records who gets access to a room and when. It works together with card readers and electric locks.

E

Edge recording

With edge recording, the camera stores footage locally, for example on an SD card, instead of on a central camera server.

Electric door lock

An electric door lock is operated by an electrical signal. It is the core of electronic access control in offices, healthcare facilities and other buildings.

Electronic image stabilisation

Electronic image stabilisation (EIS) is a technology that stabilises camera images. It prevents shaking and vibration in footage, especially when cameras are mounted on masts, buildings or vehicles.

ePoE

ePoE is a technology developed by Dahua that reaches much further than the usual 100-metre limit of Power over Ethernet.

F

Facial recognition camera

Facial recognition cameras automatically register and recognise faces, for example for access control. Keep the rules on personal data in mind.

Fibre optic

Security cameras can be connected via single-mode or multimode fibre. Which one you choose depends on the distance and the situation.

Field of view

Field of view (FOV) is the area a camera can see, expressed in degrees. Anything outside the field of view is not recorded.

Fisheye security camera

A fisheye security camera offers an extremely wide field of view, often up to 360 degrees.

Frames per second

Frames per second (FPS) determine how smooth and detailed camera footage is. The right FPS differs between general CCTV and number plate recognition.

G

Genetec Omnicast

Genetec Omnicast is a video management solution within Genetec Security Center. It suits both small installations and large, complex projects.

GPU

A GPU (graphics card) speeds up the display of many camera feeds at once. One graphics card can show hundreds of cameras, for example in Milestone XProtect.

H

Hard disk

A hard disk records camera footage 24/7. Not every disk is suitable for CCTV, and there is a difference between 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch disks.

HDCVI security camera

HDCVI (HD over coax) transmits images up to 4K over existing coaxial cables. HDCVI cameras can also be connected via UTP cable or to an NVR.

Highlight compensation

Highlight compensation (HLC) keeps camera images usable under extreme light contrasts, such as bright headlights in the dark.

Hikvision

Hikvision is one of the leading manufacturers of video and security technology worldwide.

I

Infrared

Security cameras use infrared (IR) to see in the dark, even without lighting. The IR range determines how far the camera can see.

IP camera

An IP camera communicates via the TCP/IP protocol and connects to the internet or a local network. It is usually connected by UTP cable to an NVR or VMS.

K

Keyframes

Keyframes are complete video frames that serve as a reference point. They allow camera footage to be stored and streamed efficiently.

L

Lux

Lux is the unit that measures the amount of light. For security cameras, it directly affects image quality.

M

Megapixel

The number of megapixels determines how much detail a security camera captures and relates to resolution and image quality. It is a key factor when choosing the right camera.

Milestone Husky

Milestone Husky is the hardware line of Milestone Systems: complete, preconfigured video solutions.

Milestone XProtect

Milestone XProtect is leading video management software (VMS) for surveillance systems, with many functions and integrations.

Milestone XProtect Corporate

Milestone XProtect Corporate is the most extensive version of XProtect, for large and complex projects. It includes Smart Wall, Interconnect and Smart Maps.

Milestone XProtect Smart Client

The Milestone XProtect Smart Client is the desktop application for viewing and managing camera footage within Milestone XProtect.

Mini dome security camera

A mini dome security camera is a compact, stylish camera that is often used both indoors and outdoors.

Motion blur

Motion blur usually comes from a shutter speed that is too slow. Moving objects, such as faces or number plates, then appear blurred.

Motion detection

Motion detection is a technology that automatically recognises and records movement in video images.

N

NAS

NAS stands for network attached storage: storage, often with several hard disks, that can also hold camera footage. For video storage, it also has drawbacks.

Network switch

A network switch connects the devices in an IP security system. Points to consider are the benefits of a PoE switch and the choice between layer 2 and layer 3.

Network video recorder

A network video recorder (NVR) is a hardware solution for recording security cameras. It connects to the network with a UTP cable.

O

ONVIF

ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is the global standard for IP CCTV equipment. Thanks to ONVIF, a camera also works with another manufacturer's recording system.

Outdoor security camera

An outdoor security camera protects your home or business site against break-ins and vandalism and withstands rain, heat, cold and wind. Pay attention to image quality, weather resistance, mounting and maintenance.

P

P2P

Peer to peer (P2P) is a protocol often used in CCTV systems as an alternative to port forwarding.

Panoramic security camera

A panoramic security camera covers a field of view of 180 to 360 degrees with a single device, using image stitching or fisheye lenses, without blind spots.

Paxton Net2 access control

Paxton Net2 is access control with licence-free software. You operate it via a web browser, a Windows application or a smartphone app (iOS and Android).

Paxton10

Paxton10 brings access control, video management and building automation together in one platform, combined with card readers and door controllers.

Person detection camera

Person detection recognises and follows people using algorithms and image recognition, and distinguishes them from other objects. It is used for access control and site surveillance.

Port forwarding

Port forwarding opens a network port on a router and links it to a device in your network, so that the device can be reached from outside.

Power over Ethernet

Power over Ethernet (PoE) supplies power over the network cable, so one cable carries both power and data. PoE is widely used for IP cameras.

Privacy mask

A privacy mask covers parts of the camera image to protect privacy. There are liftable and permanent privacy masks, and legislation applies.

Private alarm receiving centre

A private alarm receiving centre (ARC; PAC in Dutch) receives intruder and video signals. It must comply with the Dutch Private Security Organisations and Detective Agencies Act (WPBR) and be certified to EN 50518.

PTZ

PTZ stands for pan, tilt, zoom. You can turn and zoom a PTZ camera remotely.

R

RAID

RAID stands for redundant array of independent disks: a technology that combines several hard disks into one logical unit.

Real time streaming protocol

RTSP (real time streaming protocol) streams live camera footage to a viewer or management platform, even without ONVIF support.

Resolution

Resolution determines how much detail a security camera captures, from Full HD to 4K. Common resolutions and aspect ratios help you choose the right camera.

S

Security camera

Security cameras are widely used by businesses, government bodies and private individuals. They deter vandalism and crime, record evidence or capture a business process.

Security camera lens and field of view

The field of view of a security camera determines which area is visible: the wider the angle, the broader the view. The focal length of the lens determines the angle.

Security camera mounting

Mounting security cameras calls for careful preparation and attention to detail. You can install cameras yourself, but more and more people choose a professional for the installation work.

Shutter speed

Shutter speed determines how long the image sensor receives light. It affects the sharpness, exposure and detail of camera footage.

SN code

An SN code is the serial number of a recorder. It lets you set up a P2P connection without port forwarding; you usually find it on the bottom of the recorder or in its network menu.

T

TCP/IP

TCP/IP is the set of protocols that devices, including cameras, use to communicate over the internet and local networks.

Thermal security camera

Thermal security cameras use infrared technology to detect even in poor visibility and high heat. They are used on industrial sites and for infrastructure.

Tripwire detection

Tripwire detection, also known as line crossing detection or intrusion detection, is a form of video content analytics (VCA).

Turret security camera

A turret security camera is a popular type of security camera, suitable for both business and home security.

U

UTP cable

A UTP cable connects devices in a LAN and, for security cameras, also supplies power via PoE. There are several types, and it is often compared with coax.

UTP over coax

UTP over coax is a technology that sends modern network signals, such as Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE), over existing coaxial cabling.

V

Varifocal lens security camera

A varifocal lens security camera has an adjustable lens, so you can easily change the field of view and zoom.

Video compression

Video compression reduces video files by removing redundant data, making storage and transmission more efficient.

Video content analytics

Video content analytics (VCA) uses smart algorithms and AI to automatically recognise events and objects in camera footage.

Video encoder

A video encoder converts analogue video signals to digital, so that footage can be sent via TCP/IP to a VMS or NVR.

Video intercom

Video intercom systems combine communication and video surveillance over an IP network, so you can identify visitors. They use SIP and I/O switching.

Video management system

A video management system (VMS) manages IP cameras and linked products, such as video intercoms and I/O modules, in one piece of software.

Video Synopsis

Video Synopsis analyses hours of security footage in minutes. Using video content analytics (VCA), it automatically filters relevant events from long recordings into compact summaries.

Visionplatform.ai

Visionplatform.ai is a Dutch no-code platform for AI video analytics. You train your own detection models for existing cameras, also with XProtect.

VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) is an encrypted tunnel between a device and a VPN server. With CCTV systems, it is an alternative to P2P.

W

Wi-Fi security camera

A Wi-Fi security camera sends its image wirelessly to a recorder (NVR) or VMS, but depends on a stable Wi-Fi signal.

Wide dynamic range

Wide dynamic range (WDR) automatically controls a camera's light sensitivity in difficult light, such as bright sun shining into the camera. The rest of the image stays properly exposed.

Wireless alarm system

A wireless alarm system is quick to install without drilling or breaking into walls. The AJAX wireless alarm system is a well-known example.

Security technology glossary

0-9

360-degree camera

4G CCTV

A

Access control

AJAX BulletCam

AJAX Curtain Outdoor

AJAX Desktop

AJAX DomeCam Mini

AJAX DoorBell

AJAX Fibra

AJAX FireProtect

AJAX HomeSiren

AJAX Hub Hybrid

AJAX Jeweller

AJAX KeyPad

AJAX LeaksProtect

AJAX MotionCam Outdoor

AJAX MotionProtect

AJAX network video recorder

AJAX Relay

AJAX ReX2

AJAX StreetSiren

AJAX Superior

AJAX TurretCam

AJAX WallSwitch

AJAX Wings

Alarm system

ATEX security camera

Auto tracking white balance

Auto-tracking PTZ

Automatic gain control

Axis

Axis Zipstream

B

Backlight compensation

Bitrate

Bullet security camera

C

Camera footage

Camera security recording

Camera security software

Camera server

Card reader (access control)

CCTV

CCTV app

CCTV installation

CCTV systems

Cell corner security camera

CMOS image sensor

D

Dahua

Dahua Full Color

Dahua SmartPSS

Digital noise reduction

Digital video recorder

Door contact

Door controller (access control)

E

Edge recording

Electric door lock

Electronic image stabilisation

ePoE

F

Facial recognition camera

Fibre optic

Field of view

Fisheye security camera

Frames per second

G

Genetec Omnicast

GPU

H

Hard disk

HDCVI security camera

Highlight compensation

Hikvision

I

Infrared