What is a CCD camera? #
A CCD camera is a video camera that contains a charged-coupled device (CCD), which is a transistorized light sensor on an integrated circuit. To simplify, CCD devices convert or manipulate an electrical signal into some kind of output, including digital values. In cameras, CCD enables them to take in visual information and convert it into an image or video. They are, in other words, digital cameras.
This allows for the use of cameras in access control systems because images no longer need to be captured on film to be visible. Security cameras, using the techniques of CCD, can relay live visual information, which is hugely important when monitoring your facility. CCD surveillance has become a foolproof way to protect your space. When CCD security camera systems are coupled with motion sensors or video verification, for example, they can capture the image of cardholders who are attempting to enter a protected space.
How does a CCD camera work? #
In terms of the working principle of CCD cameras, these video cameras capture an image and transfer it to the camera’s memory system to record it as electronic data. CCD cameras’ main accomplishment is the production of quality images without any distortion. Basically, the camera turns light into electricity. A CCD camera forms light-sensitive elements called pixels, which sit next to each other and form a particular image. CCD cameras have been in production for a long period of time and tend to have high-quality pixels that produce a higher quality, low-noise image, better than any other camera.
How much can a CCD camera cost? #
The pricing of CCD cameras depends on the physical size of the CCD. Most consumer digital cameras have a CCD of around ⅙ or ⅕ of an inch. Generally, one small CCD camera runs between $30 and $50. Depending on the style of cameras, the price fluctuates. For example, dome security cameras are generally priced around $100. Cameras that are more expensive have a CCD of ⅓ of an inch or larger. The bigger the sensor, the more light it can capture. This means that in low light settings, the camera will produce better video. If using a CCD camera for security purposes, a slightly more expensive camera may be the better option, as the footage will be of better quality, especially during the evening and night.
Some of these options include cameras like the Google Nest Camera, which comes out to around $200 for one camera or around $400 or $650 for packs of 3 or 5 cameras, respectively. In professional digital video cameras, there are typically three sensors called 3CCD. Separate CCDs are used for capturing red, green, and blue hues. Typically, the pricing of these can cost thousands of dollars per CCD camera.
Integrating cameras with your access control system #
When choosing an access control system, you can also make sure your CCD camera can be paired with the solution you select. Kisi, for example, offers an integration with Cisco Meraki to offer enhanced remote monitoring of your facilities. This way, you can track entries with visual snapshots, detect intrusion, and provide additional context for any security-related events.