There are a great number of security cameras on the market. Some of them are:

• Board cameras which are small, portable, compact cameras that have a lens directly mounted to a circuit board. They are often used discretely.
• Dome cameras are semi spherical in shape and are also used discretely.
• Night-vision cameras are the types of security cameras that combine infra-red LED’s with the camera for clearer view at night.
• Lipstick cameras/Bullet cameras are tiny, cylindrical, and often covered in a metal case.

Most of these types of cameras can be used both indoors and outdoors.

The history of security cameras goes as far back as 1965. In those days cameras were mostly used by forces like the police to view public places or places that are prone to crime. The earliest security cameras were closed circuit television (CCTV). This type had to be watched constantly because it did not record. As technology advanced, the white and black security video camera came out and was followed by the colored security camera. History has it that in 1966, a woman named Marie Van Brittan Brown, and her husband, Albert Brown invented the home security camera to help curb robberies in homes. Her invention later led to modernized security cameras we see today. http://www.black-inventor.com/Marie-Van-Brittan-Brown.asp These days, security cameras are seen almost everywhere you go.

Here are some things to consider when planning on buying a security camera:

1. Make sure the camera can cover a wide range or the specific areas you need the surveillance.
2. Do you prefer a wireless or wired security camera? Wireless security cameras are very popular and you can fix them yourself, unlike the wired ones which need professional assistance.
3. Decide beforehand what resolution you want for the security camera.
4. Decide if you want a manual or an automatic security camera.
5. If you intend on installing the security camera for night use, a Night-vision camera will be a better choice.
6. For a more discrete security system, go for a dome camera. Most people would think it is a lamp with a faulty bulb.
7. If you intend to use it outdoors, choose a security camera that has strong casing to prevent vandalism.