Key takeaways
- CCDs, or charge-coupled devices, are the sensors that these digital cameras use to capture images.
- A CCD camera works by using sensors to take in light. The sensors change light photons and convert them into electrons, which computers can then use.
- An alternative to CCD cameras is CMOS cameras, which use a different type of sensor to generate a digital picture.
- While each type of sensor has its own pros and cons, both sensors are likely to be part of the digital camera industry for decades to come. To adapt, you should invest in an access system that makes integrating with different types of cameras simple — like ButterflyMX.
One of the most efficient ways for property managers to ensure physical security on their properties is with cameras. However, the type of camera you choose might have security implications based on that camera’s technical specs. One of the most common types of cameras is the CCD camera — is it the right fit to secure your property?
In this post, we explain what a CCD camera is and how they work. Then, we go over alternatives for CCD cameras and explain the best way to use them on your property.
This post covers:
- What is a CCD camera?
- How do CCD sensors work?
- CCD camera alternatives
- The best way to use CCD cameras on your property
What is a CCD camera?
A CCD camera is a type of camera that uses charge-coupled device sensors to capture images. CCD sensors are an integral part of what allows digital cameras to work.
Before the invention of these sensors, cameras were entirely analog and depended on film to function. But as the world embraced inventions like the computer, scientists created sensors that allowed images to be stored digitally.
Some uses of CCD sensors include:
- Microscopes
- Commercial cameras
- Telescopes
- Security systems
- Astroimaging
Do CCD sensors wear out?
Yes, CCD sensors can wear out.
However, these sensors don’t involve any moving parts. And they’ve been used in the most inhospitable conditions without failing. For example, one of the best CCD cameras went up into space on the Solar Heliospheric Observatory satellite, which was launched into space in 1995 — and it still works!
It’s more likely for other parts of a camera to fail first before its sensors.
How much do CCD cameras cost?
Depending on the other features of the camera, a CCD cam might cost anywhere from $30 to over $100.
Watch how ButterflyMX works:
How do CCD sensors work?
CCD digital cameras work by using CCD sensors to create high-definition images.
Digital cameras are made of these parts:
- Lens. First, a CCD sensor takes in the image with a glass lens.
- CCD sensor. The light from the lens strikes the sensor, which detects the photons that come in and converts them into electrons that can be read by computer circuitry.
- Processor. Once the sensor has converted light into a computer-readable pattern, the camera can process that image further and load it onto the camera’s memory card.
- Display. In addition to adding the photo to a camera’s memory card, the camera can display that image on the camera’s display. Or, the camera can display its output on a video monitor for security purposes.
CCD camera alternatives
While these types of cameras are popular, they’re competing with another type of camera that uses another type of sensor — CMOS, which stands for Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor.
Either type of camera will be able to successfully secure your property. However, each sensor has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Historically, CCD’s advantages over CMOS sensors have been clearer images and better sensitivities to light.
In recent years, more camera manufacturers have chosen CMOS sensors because they’re more energy efficient and don’t require as much electronic circuitry. CCD camera prices tend to be more expensive than CMOS prices.
But advances in CCD sensors, like cooled CCD cameras that use a unique manufacturing process, mean that CCD sensors are still a major player in the camera arms race.
The best way to use CCD cameras on your property
We’ve found the best way to use CCD cameras on your property is alongside an integrated access control system.
While CCD image sensors are still commonplace today, cameras that use the competing CMOS sensor are becoming more popular. And no matter what type of camera you choose, you’ll have to worry about maintenance and broken parts.
Instead of focusing on one sensor being better than the other, you should focus on establishing a robust access system that makes it easy to swap out or add cameras. For thousands of property owners across the country, that access control system is ButterflyMX.
Other features of ButterflyMX include:
- More integrations. In addition to security camera integrations, ButterflyMX also integrates with other systems that simplify property managers’ workloads. You can integrate with property management systems, smart locks, elevator controls, apartment security systems, and more.
- Cloud-based administration. You can edit tenant permissions and make changes from any laptop or smartphone, whether you’re on-site or not. Plus, view an audit trail of all door release events to further increase security on your property.
- Delivery pass functionality. Ensure safety by empowering your residents to text delivery passes to their couriers. A courier with a delivery pass only has access through the doors and gates they need, preventing unauthorized access to the rest of your property.
