About C-Mount Cameras
In 1970's and 1980's, when security cameras were in their infancy, c-mount cameras were really the only kind. Their shape and size was determined greatly by the size of the boards and chip-sets at the time. As technology has improved over the years, with the size of circuit boards going smaller, newer style security cameras were able to be developed. Since then, bullet cameras have taken over the market. However, c-mount cameras still offer the best resolution of any security camera, and are the only cameras that can use the 1/2" chip sets. C-Mount cameras make great indoor cameras and they require specific housings and mounting brackets to work outside. C-Mount cameras are really popular among commercial applications and local government compounds.
History of C-Mount Security Cameras
C-mount cameras are the "seniors" of the group. They were the very first commercial security camera models and created the CCTV industry in the early 70's. At that time, the only foreseeable market for security cameras was government buildings, which are still the largest segment of security camera purchases today, and so the c-mount camera defined the industry. Today, c-mount cameras are still known for having the best resolution which is due to the size of the chip sets. Whereas, dome cameras and infrared cameras, can only support lenses up to 1/3 of an inch, many cmount security cameras have 1/2" chip-sets. A larger chip-set means you will have superior video. The best advantage of having a 1/2" chip set is you can have color video in very low lighting conditions.
For example, this Sony c-mount camera still is able to capture color video in a room with no artificial lights and blinds on the windows. Although certainly not total darkness, it is a more common security situation.
A C-Mount Camera's power is measure by it's lux stat. Lux is the metric unit of for measuring the amount of light that falls on an object. A lower lux rating indicates how well the c-mount camera works in low light. A lower lux rating usually means that the camera will be more expensive, but out Sony CMR918 c-mount camera has a 0.01 lux for under one-hundred dollars!
C-mount Security Cameras Do Not Come With A Lens
One of the drawbacks to owning a c-mount camera is the parts come separate. This means that you have to know what you need before you buy, in order to harness the power they can give you in zoning of your CCTV setup, and as such are considerably less adaptable than bullet cameras. For example, in order to have a cmount security camera work outside, you need to purchase a lens, brackets, infrared lights and housings.
Many stores sell cmount security cameras, and although most of the pictures show the cameras with lens mounted to them, c-mount security cameras do not come with lens. The reason for this is so that the customer can manipulate their CCTV system and add a variety of different lens to the c-mount camera to get the video they truly desire. As a result, the price for a single camera can be higher than other types of security cameras. But for those customers who are seeking high resolution video, cmount security cameras are the only way to go.
C-mount Security Cameras Need Housings For Use Outdoors
If you want color video outside at night, then you will need a c-mount camera. However C-mount cameras are designed for the outside, so you will need a housing. The housing protects the camera from rain, snow, and projectiles that could be flying around in the air during windy conditions. Some housings come with heaters and blowers to protect the life of a cmount security camera in very extreme environments. Many high rise commercial businesses use c-Mount cameras in housings because of their high resolution color video needs.
C-Mount Security Cameras Are Great Indoor Cameras
If your CCTV application calls for an indoors approach, consider cmount security cameras first. These camera are great because they most of them have a very good ability to see in color during the day and night -- without the use of infrared technology. So if you want a color image no matter what, c-mount cameras are your only option. If you are unsure about the differences in video between domes and bullets, check out our security camera demos. Our newest c-mount cameras can be seen on our PC-based 64 channel digital video recorder.
C-Mount Security Cameras Have Style
If you are looking for a security camera with good style, then c-mount cameras come in first. Although there are some really nice looking bullet cameras out there, but nearly all the cs-mount security cameras have a more professional look. They really shine in banks, hospitals and local municipal offices. They are a bit obtrusive, with their CB-brackets mounted to drop-down tile ceiling, but c-mount cameras are designed to deter crime by being obvious.
You may also want to consult our C-Mount Camera FAQ.
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