Storing CCTV images
Most home systems use a computer hard drive or standalone digital video recorder (DVR). The main advantage of this is that they often come with software to view the images. Some DVR-based systems also have this facility. Make sure your system allows you to store images in a widely used format, such as Mpeg, otherwise there may be problems, for example, if images need to be downloaded and viewed on other systems. In addition, make sure that if you get a camera that can record high-quality images, the PC or DVR is up to the task of recording them.

Remote access
Some home CCTV systems, such as IP ones, let you check images over the internet using a computer or smartphone. Other options include email or text notifications, as and when cameras are activated.

Night vision
Monochrome CCTV cameras tend to be the most effective in low light, particularly when used with integral infrared illumination – a feature found on some cameras. You can get some CCTV cameras that will film in colour during the day and switch to monochrome at night.

Motion detection
Some CCTV cameras have a sensor that turns them on when they detect movement. This can be handy if you want to reduce the amount of footage you’re storing.