A Brief History of CCTV
Over recent years, CCTV has gone from being something that was the preserve of large commercial premises and large public buildings or spaces, to being much more common. Due to advances in technology, it is now much more accessible for smaller businesses. In this article we uncover the history of CCTV
When was CCTV first used?
CCTV history can be traced back to the late 1940s. The earliest recorded use of CCTV was during the Second World War in Germany when engineer Walter Bruch designed a system to monitor the launch of V-2 rockets. Over time, the military applications of this basic system evolved and expanded into the civilian sphere. CCTV systems began being used in the United States in the 1950s to monitor retail environments, expanding to include factories and other commercial establishments through the 1960s.
When did CCTV start in the UK?
The history of CCTV in the UK began in King’s Lynn, Norfolk with the installation of a CCTV system to monitor traffic. During the 1960s, other areas began to experiment with CCTV for traffic management and crime prevention.
Did they have CCTV in the 70s and 80s?
By the end of the 1970s, several police forces were using CCTV to monitor public areas and to deter crime. At the time, the technology was still relatively basic using black and white cameras with limited resolution and restricted storage capabilities. Despite these limitations, it was still able to provide enhanced security and assistance with investigating crime at a time when crime rates were beginning to rise. A significant milestone in the history of CCTV in the UK was the installation of CCTV systems in major British cities to monitor public spaces. The London Borough of Hackney installed cameras in trouble spots to combat rising crime rates, with other urban areas following suit over the next decade.
During the 1990s there was an exponential increase in the use of CCTV systems across the UK, with CCTV footage playing a key role in the investigation of some high-profile crimes. Advancements in digital technology in the late 1990s and early 2000s began to make CCTV systems more accessible. Smaller businesses and domestic premises could now benefit from high-quality CCTV coverage.
Today, wireless CCTV marks a new era in the history of CCTV making highly effective CCTV systems increasingly flexible and accessible.
CCTV Systems from Protive Security & Surveillance
If you’re considering a CCTV system for your business, then Protive Security & Surveillance can help. Our commercial CCTV installation services across the north west including Liverpool and Manchester ensures your property is protected from criminal and environmental damage 24/7, 365 days a year. Our team takes time to find out about your particular security needs and can design, install and maintain the optimum system for your requirements.
We can provide you with an accurate quote for tailored CCTV for your home or business. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
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