|
|
|
|
FAQs and other Product Information |
Check here for your questions about our wireless products and accessories. If you don't find the answer to your question then
contact us with your question. Thank you!
Do you have a glossary of definitions for DPI, CCTV, CCD and other words?
Yes. You can view a Glossary of Terms which will give give you definitions
for words you'll see on this website, in the user's guides and other places. Let us know if we're missing a definition! You'll need
Adobe Reader to view the glossary document. If you don't have Adobe Reader you can
download it and get it for free.
How far will a wireless camera system transmit?
You should expect to be able to transmit 300 feet. Under perfect conditions our systems will reach up to 700 feet.
Your specific situation will determine transmission distance.
My barn is metal. Will that affect a wireless camera system?
Yes. Radio frequency signals will not pass through metal. In order to transmit from or to a metal building you
will need to transmit through a window or doorway. You can also use an antenna on the exterior of the building to
avoid the blockage. This needs to be decided before ordering a system as most systems are not set up for additional antennas.
What will affect the distance over which the system will transmit?
Transmission distances are estimated for line of sight (LOS) situations. That means that the signals will transmit in
the same way that you see. If you can see it, the signals can transmit. While the signals are not blocked by trees,
sheetrock, wood siding etc., heavy tree growth will inhibit the transmission. In the spring, new leaves can also affect
the transmission distance due to the higher absorption of young moist leaves. Often, setting the receiver so that the
signal can pass through glass (a window or glass door) instead of passing through an outside wall will resolve the problem.
What is LOS and how does it affect my system?
LOS refers to line of sight. RF transmissions travel in much the same way as your sight. If your sight is blocked, the signals may be blocked. In actual practice, RF signals are reflected or absorbed by objects that they encounter. Hence signals are often reflected off obstructions and “bounce” until they reach the receiver. That is why we say that signals may be blocked. Often signals will travel to the receiver even though you do not have a clear line of sight
How can I increase the distance that my system will transmit?
The best way to increase distance is through the use of an antenna. Antennas can be used at the transmitter, receiver or both. Use of a separate antenna also allows it to be installed outside of a building that may be causing an obstruction. Transmission range can be increased to as much as 1,500 feet through the use of exterior antennas. Power can also be increased but that is not as effective as the use of an antenna.
Can I increase the power output of my system?
Yes. This can be done through the use of a more powerful transmitter or with a power amplifier. However, both of these options will place the power of the unit outside of the limit allowed under FCC part 15 requirements. The FCC requires a license for systems at higher power levels.
What are the advantages of color versus black and white systems?
Black and white systems are less expensive to purchase. Black and white systems also operate at lower lux values -- meaning they will produce pictures in lower light conditions than color systems. The advantages of color systems are the enhanced viewing of details that are apparent in color.
How difficult is the system to install?
The systems are very easy to install. Installation is a matter of plugging in color coded plugs. If you want to permanently install the transmitter bracket, that will take additional time.
Can I use the cameras outdoors?
Cameras that are designated as weatherproof or outdoor cameras can be installed and used outside. Cameras not designated in this way must be operated indoors
Can the system be expanded at a later time?
The RC 200, 300, 400 and 500 systems are expandable to a maximum of 4 cameras. Cameras that can be used for expansion are the RC 100 and 150. Both color and black & white cameras can operate on the same system. The RC900 system requires a separate transmitter for each camera and can operate up to 4 cameras and transmitters.
What frequencies will operate wireless camera systems?
Wireless cameras are available in 900 Mhz, 1.2Ghz and 2.4Ghz frequencies. As more wireless products have come on the market additional frequencies have been added. Systems that operate at 5.8 Ghz are now becoming available.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different frequencies?
As the frequencies increase quality of transmission increases. However, as frequencies increase accuracy of delivery becomes more critical. While the higher frequencies offer higher quality, reliable delivery of the signal may be compromised.
Are all cameras, transmitters and receivers in a given frequency (such as 2.4Ghz) compatible?
No. Within each frequency there are channels or sub-frequencies. For instance, in the 2.4Ghz frequency the 4 channels may be 2410, 2430, 2450, and 2470 Mhz. Equipment from another system or from another manufacturer may operate at 2413, 2432, 2468, and 2490 Mhz. For this reason, equipment must be coordinated for matching frequencies. If in doubt, ask the supplier for the exact frequencies.
Can I use more than one receiver on a system?
Yes. The signals sent by the transmitter can be received by any number of receivers as long as one is not blocking the signal of another. You can operate receivers in your bedroom, living room and kitchen without problems.
Can I record to a VCR from a wireless system?
Yes. The RCA plugs go into your television set are the same type used in VCRs and DVD players and recorders. You can connect directly to a VCR or DVD recorder to record transmissions.
What is IR and why would I want it?
IR is infrared and allows the camera to operate in total darkness. Infrared light is invisible to people and animals but is “seen” by the special infrared camera sensor. Infrared pictures are always in black and white even if the camera shows color during daylight conditions. Our regular black and white systems only require a light bulb of about 20 watts to produce a clear picture and infrared is not necessary in most instances.
How many cameras can I run on one system?
The RC 200, 300, 400, and 500 systems can operate up to 4 cameras. All that is necessary is that each camera be switched to a different channel with the selector button on the front. Each camera can be viewed by switching the receiver to each channel with the receiver channel button. The RC 200 and 300 systems also offer sequencing so that the receiver will automatically switch channels. The receiver can be set to sequence to 2, 3, or 4 channels in rotation depending on how many cameras you wish to view. These same systems can also be set for manual channel changing.
Do I need a license to operate a wireless camera system?
No. Our systems are approved under FCC part 15 regulations and no license is required. If a special high power transmitter is ordered or a power amplifier is used, the FCC requires licensing under part 90 of their regulations. It is the responsibility of the wireless equipment operator to obtain the necessary licensing.
|
|
|
|
