Analogue video casette recorders for mobile CCTV

ANALOGUE CCTV

Analogue CCTV systems have in recent years been replaced by new digital alternatives. In real terms there is no longer the availability to time-lapse video cassette recorders, with most manufacturers discontinuing production and switiching to digital platforms.

We continue to provide service to customers using analogue systems and on occasions are able to offer for sale refurbished VCRs (that come back to us when a customer has themselves upgraded to digital). The information contained on these page therefore refers to legacy prodcuts and is more for the purpose of reference.

See our information on Digital Vs Analogue for details of how the formats compare.

Whilst digital CCTV systems have become more popular, Activcameras continue to install Analogue CCTV solutions, particularly for operators looking for an entry level system that at low-cost is still highly effective.

Our simple to use analogue system has become the most celebrated and widely used system by hundreds of bus & coach operators and local authorities carrying out ‘home to school’ contracts.

The system comprises of between 1 and 4 high resolution colour cameras mounted in polycarbonate domes, a camera switcher and automatic time/date video recorder.

These latest cameras offer the highest quality colour reproduction with the added benefit of automatic conversion to black & white for even sharper images should the level of vehicle lighting fall below the level required for good quality colour images.

Where 2-4 cameras are being used a camera switcher is built into the circuit giving images of each camera on a two second cycle. All cameras have an audio channel, particularly important on the camera situated nearest to the driver.

The video will operate on a time-lapse basis offering 3-24 hours of recording. However, due to the duration of ‘school runs’ it is most generally used in real time mode. Standard procedure is to wire the video directly to the vehicle ignition, thereby overcoming driver error in forgetting to activate the system, but if required, and to reduce unnecessary recording, an isolator switch can be fitted to the dashboard.

The video has a range of features including time & date, automatic rewind, or automatic rewind and re-record, whichever is preferred. Due to the video memory, the system will always continue in the same format when activated, as it was in when the vehicle was shut down. If no incidents have occurred then there is no need to touch the system.

The simplicity of this system is such, that a tape is easily removed and played back on a standard VCR at home or in the office, and immediately provides the evidence required for action to be taken.