Close-circuit television or CCTV transmits video footages from mounted cameras to remote monitors, commonly for security and safety purposes. The transmission can take place either wirelessly or through cables connecting the video camera to the monitors.

Originally developed in Germany in 1942 to record the launch of V2-rocket by German engineer Walter Bruch, the CCTV system was installed in main business streets in an effort to prevent crimes. Banks and stores followed suit, monitoring the activities within the establishment. CCTV systems are available for private individuals today for the security of their homes and properties.

The CCTV system works by installing video cameras in strategic places that can give a wide view of the location. These cameras transmit and record these video footages to a remote monitor or monitors usually watched by security personnel.

CCTV video cameras are installed in many public locations. In banks, airports, subways, stores and malls, police and military facilities and even in the streets. These highly-crowded locations are hotspots for crimes like theft, terrorism and other acts of violence. Studies reveal that a criminal is less likely to commit personal crimes such as physical assault within the view or proximity of a camera. The fact that the suspect’s details can be recorded in the cameras and can be used to warrant his arrest can greatly deter someone from committing an offense.

Whether the CCTV can actually reduce crimes is still being debated upon, but it has provided help in criminal identification. Recordings of the CCTV installed in shops can provide recognition to shop-lifters and burglars or clues to crimes done within the vicinity. Other than monitoring criminal acts, the surveillance systems are also being used to combat anti-social behaviours which include minor offenses such as littering, urinating in public, traffic violations, drunkenness and other public order offenses.

Although most linked with security and surveillance, there are other uses of CCTV system. Electron microscopy, medical imaging and robotics are few other functions of this technology. Live on-site video feeds for conferences, concerts and sports coverage such as boxing and wrestling are also an application of the CCTV system, as these footages are broadcasted to small and specific areas.

The CCTV systems have many types. Some cameras capture images alone, while some can record sounds as well. The type of CCTV camera depends on its main usage. If the main purpose is for surveillance or traffic control, it is not required to have coloured cameras; black and white images actually have a better resolution. However, if the main purpose of the CCTV system is criminal deterrence and identification, a coloured system is essential.

Having a CCTV system can provide a sense of peace and safety to the everyday citizen. The knowledge that criminals and terrorists are less likely to commit violent acts when there are cameras around brings comfort to people.

Lessening crime rates and bringing peace of mind to citizens only shows how valuable CCTV systems are these modern times.

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