Glossary of Terms
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3G
Shorthand for Third Generation, 3G refers to wireless accessibility technologies used mostly with smartphones. It is a mobile phone standard that allows Internet connectivity, advanced multimedia usage, and faster data transmission. Better wireless technologies have emerged with the arrival of 4G and 5G standards and services.
4G / LTE
4G refers to the Fourth Generation of mobile data technology, a faster alternative to 3G. LTE is a related term that stands for Long-Term Evolution. Smartphones and tablets with 4G LTE connectivity should have a peak connection speed of 100 megabits per second and 1 gigabit per second when in mobile hot spots.
5G
5G is a shortcut for the Fifth Generation of mobile accessibility, and it is the latest trend in data connectivity. Anticipated average speeds are at 1 gigabit per second. Working in synergy with existing 3G and 4G networks, 5G is expected to power the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase the connectivity of the entire world.
A
Active Mechanical Filter
Also known as a Mechanical Infrared Cut-off Filter. A component of security cameras that actively blocks infrared wavelengths from reaching the image sensor during the daytime. Security cameras can detect both visible and infrared wavelengths. Infrared allows the cameras to record video even in complete darkness. When there is sufficient light, the footage may become too bright and unusable when the infrared is not filtered.
Alexa
A virtual assistant and artificial intelligence from Amazon portrayed with a female voice. It has capabilities such as smart device control, user interaction, task delegation, information streaming and real-time updating. The name is a reference to the historic Library of Alexandria and its pursuit of collecting the knowledge of the world.
All-Weather
Capable of operation in different types of weather. It is a descriptive quality assigned to gadgets that can still function even in rough weather situations such as extreme heat or sub-zero temperatures. All Lorex security cameras are designed to function in all-weather conditions.
Analog MPX
MPX is a trademark for a video surveillance format that uses HD-CVI technology. This technology can deliver megapixel picture quality and HD resolutions to security cameras even if it uses analog systems. This is accomplished by using a coax cable. Lorex has a huge selection of MPX security cameras.
Android
An open-source mobile operating system for touchscreen devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. This software from Google has since expanded to other devices such as wearables and car entertainment. It functions as a translator or link between user inputs and gadget responses. All of Lorex's apps are compatible with Android devices.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
A branch of computer science focused on the creation of machines that can think, respond and work like humans. It has been used for situations such as problem-solving, speech recognition, and object manipulation. Specific areas of research include robotics, machine perception, AI ethics and knowledge engineering. In the field of security surveillance, AI is very much useful in the development of advanced facial recognition.
Aspect Ratio
The numerical ratio between the width and height of a screen or an image. Typical television sets and computer displays have an aspect ratio of 1.33:1 wherein width is 1.33 times the height. Newer HDTV displays have a widescreen aspect ration of 16:9.
Audio Recording
The conversion of sound as a digital file that can be played back repeatedly. Most audio-visual gadgets have the capability to record sound. Lorex has a huge assortment of security cameras that have listen-in and two-way audio capabilities.
Auto Port Forwarding Wizard
An exclusive software from Lorex that automates the forwarding of a router port. It is essential to forward ports to enable outside traffic inside the router network. With this wizard software, users will not have a difficult time to perform this technical task.
B
Battery-Powered Camera
A device that can record and store images and videos with efficient portability and endurance. It gets its power supply from battery packs. Lorex has a rich lineup of battery-powered cameras, also known as wire-free.
Blockchain
A feature of cryptocurrency that links together data or records in units called blocks. It is resistant to modifications and can visibly show transactions in a chain efficiently and verifiably. Satoshi Nakamoto created the blockchain in 2008 as a public ledger of transactions for the cryptocurrency bitcoin. In the field of security surveillance, blockchain is instrumental in the creation of distributed cloud storage where footage from security cameras are safely stored and distributed in the cloud using blockchain technology.
BNC Coaxial
Abbreviation for Bayonet Neill Concelman. This is a type of connector for coaxial cables particularly RG-58 A/U cables that are normally used for the 10Base-2 Ethernet system. The basic variety is a male type placed on both ends of the cable. There are also BNC connectors used to increase the signals of monitors to video adapters. A large portion of Lorex security cameras uses BNC Coaxial cables.
Bullet Camera
A type of video camera widely used as part of surveillance systems. Its name is a reference to the size and elongated shape of the camera. Many of Lorex's bullet cameras have varifocal / zoom lenses.
C
Cat5
Common reference to a Category 5 cable. It is a twisted pair cable used for computer networks. It can provide transmission performances of up to 100 MHz particularly for Ethernet over twisted pair up to 1000BASE-T or Gigabit Ethernet. These cables are also used for video and telephony. Lorex uses an assortment of Cat5, Cat5e or Cat6 cables in much of its IP security cameras.
Cat5e
Category 5 enhanced cable. This is a variant of Cat5 cables that replaced the cable standard because its relevance in the IT industry has faded. Cat5e cables look the same as Cat5, but their protective jackets are more durable, their cables are more tightly twisted, and they are more resistant to crosstalk or cable interference.
Cat6
Category 6 cable. It is the new industry backbone as far as cables are concerned because it can maintain 10 Gigabit speeds for the entire length of the Ethernet cable at 328 feet. It has a very thick plastic casing for the further reduction of crosstalk.
Channels
In computer science, it is a transmission medium for processing information. Using message pairing, channels are models for synchronization and interprocess communication. Various iterations of channels may either be buffered or not. It can also be either asynchronous or synchronous. Much of Lorex's flagship NVRs and DVRs use 8, 16, and 32 channels.
CIF
Common Intermediate Format. This is a standard format for video teleconferencing systems that specifies the frame rate, color subsampling of digital video sequences, picture resolution, and color space. It was established as a compromise between PAL and NTSC systems because it defines a video sequence with a resolution of 352 x 288.
Cloud
A casual term for cloud computing, a technology that allows users to access different data and services over the Internet for a fee. These include database storage and access to computing power and applications. The word "cloud" is a reference to a platform that is always hovering above and available when needed.
Cloud Storage
A virtual place and set of remote servers that can store large amounts of data and can be accessed anytime and anywhere through the Internet. It is typically managed by a cloud service provider for a specific and regular fee.
CM Rated
CM refers to Communications Multipurpose. It is a rating of cable jacket fire resistance as defined in the US National Electric Code. It has the minimum jacket ratings and is typically used for in-wall installation of Ethernet cables inside a residence or a single-story commercial building.
CMR Rated
A cable with a Communications Multipurpose Riser rating is similar to a CM rating, but this type of cable can be run between floors that do not circulate environmental air for heating or conditioning systems.
CMOS Sensor
Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. It is an electronic sensor that digitally processes the conversion of photos to electrons. This creates images in digital video and security cameras. It has also been used for scanners, astronomical telescopes, and barcode readers.
Color Night Vision (CNV)
Color Night Vision. An exclusive technology developed by Lorex that allow security cameras with CNV technology to record colored footage in low-light conditions. This is accomplished through powerful image sensors that can absorb more visible light because it has more sensitivity to light.
D
D1 Resolution
The highest resolution that can be captured by a security camera that uses television specifications. It is 704x480 for NTSC (United States of America) and 720x576 for PAL (Europe). High-end security units can record video using this resolution.
Data
Pieces of digital information that are processed through computing. It is information rendered in binary digital format when used for media transmission purposes. It is typically sent through packets.
DDNS
Dynamic Domain Name System. It is a system that creates a map of Internet domain names to IP addresses. This is the technology that allows users to access their home computer from various locations all over the world.
DDoS
Distributed Denial of Service. A type of cyberattack wherein multiple systems carrying a Trojan will target a single system until it can't function anymore and has a denial of service. Common targets of DDoS attacks include bandwidth, applications, and traffic.
DHCP
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. This is used to generate via automation an Internet Protocol (IP) address and other details such as DNS (Domain Name System) server address, default gateway, and subnet mask. It functions to enable users to connect to a network conveniently.
Dial-Up
This is a means of connecting to the Internet using a typical telephone line. It is inexpensive, but it also offers the slowest type of Internet because its bandwidth is very limited. A user must also have an active phone line and a modem to make this work.
Digital Wireless
A system typically associated with sound capture, production, and processing. Digital wireless systems process sound as binary bits of code, as opposed to analog. It doesn't rely on wires as well, enabling devices that use this system to be more portable and reliable.
Digital Zoom
The capability of optical recording devices such as DSLRs and security cameras to capture a closer image of an object without the use of optical lenses. This feature uses the processor of the camera to crop the center of the image without compromising the megapixels of the images.
DIN
Deutsches Institut für Normung. This is the organization that created a standard for an electrical connector during the 1970s. Some of its standards for include circular, D-subminiature, rectangular and automotive coaxial connectors.
Display Resolution
A numerical value that indicates the pixels that can be displayed in each dimension for computer monitors, television screens and display devices. 720p is 1280 x 720 and indicates an HD (high definition) resolution. 1080p is 1920 x 1080 and refers to Full HD resolution. 1440p is 2560 x 1440 or Quad HD resolution. 4K is 3840 x 2160 or Ultra HD resolution. 8K is 7680 x 4320 and has 16x more pixels than the Full HD resolution.
DNS
Domain Name Systems. Users can access websites through IP addresses. However, instead of memorizing a site's IP address, the DNS functions as a phone book reference and makes it easy for web browsers to find the IP address of a particular website.
Dome Camera
A security camera shaped like a dome and has a discrete design because it is difficult to determine where the lens of the camera is pointing. It also has more durability because the dome casing protects the camera lens from vandalism.
DVI
Digital Visual Interface. A system for video source connection particularly for a display device. Its function is to set an industry standard when it comes to digital video content transfer.
DVR
Digital Video Recorder. A device that stores the footage that is continuously recorded by security cameras. It receives megapixels from analog cameras through coaxial cables and processes it for digital encoding and storage.
Dynamic IP Address
Dynamic Internet Protocol Address. A temporary IP address assigned to new computing devices or nodes that connect to a network. This is a solution to the shortage of static IP addresses. More importantly, it helps establish a reliable connection to the Internet for users.
E
Encryption
A protective measure to ensure that sensitive data is unreadable or inaccessible by unauthorized users online. It uses an algorithm to transform digital information into unreadable text.
Ethernet
A system for connecting devices in a local area network that is widely used in numerous industries, particularly the Internet Protocol and data transmissions. It is less vulnerable to disruptions and outside hacking because it is physically connected using reliable cables.
Ethernet Cable
A specialized wire that connects devices such as routers, computers and switches in a local area network. There are different types of cables according to functionality in order to optimize their functions because their lengths are limited. The usual cables follow Cat5, Cat5e and Cat6 standards.
ETL Certification
Electrical Testing Labs. A third-party organization with qualifications from the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL). They offer certifications to products to assess if they meet industry standards especially when it comes to safety.
External IP Address
A numerical value that is assigned by an Internet service provider to denote your presence. This is how the Internet and other users will see you online.
F
FHSS
Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum. A transmission method for radio signals that quickly switches among various frequency channels. Signals from a spread spectrum transmission are difficult to intercept and resistant to narrowband interference.
Field of View
The perspective of a person when looking at an optical device. This view is the extent that a camera sensor can pick up through electromagnetic radiation.
Firmware Update
A firmware is a program that ensures the effective and efficient operation of a device or a machine. Updates are important from time to time because manufacturers continually add improvements to their products.
Fixed Lens
An attribute of security cameras where the viewing angle is static or fixed. It has no zoom or options for adjustment. This significantly reduces the cost of the device and is ideal for locations that are less likely to change.
FPS
Frames per second. A numerical value that indicates how fast still images flicker for every second to create movement in videos. Real-Time speed is usually considered to be 30 FPS.
Frame Rate
The frequency of appearance of still images in a display device to express movement. This is measured in terms of hertz and is the same across a multitude of devices from computer graphics, film cameras, video cameras, and motion capture systems.
Fusion
The Lorex Fusion Collection is a set of NVRs and wireless products that can connect through the Lorex Home App. Fusion NVRs can accommodate up to two wireless cameras on open channels. This opens up the possibility to record Wi-Fi cameras continue to provide full coverage and data backup. All Indoor and Outdoor Wi-Fi Cameras, Video Doorbells, and Floodlight Cameras are included so you can expand your wired security camera system with versatile and convenient wireless products.
H
H.264
A standard for compression that is widely used for recording and distribution of video. It is also referred to as MPEG-4 Part 10 or Advanced Video Coding (MPEG-4 AVC). It can create high-quality video outputs that do not have large file sizes. The H.264 name came from the convention standards of the ITU-T.
Hard Drive
A storage device for digital data and content such as documents, videos, and photos. It can either be external or internal, with drive capacities measured in bytes.
HDD
A hard drive disk (HDD) is a data storage device used in many computers. It has spinning disks inside where data is stored magnetically. Information is read and written by a head that spins extremely fast from one area of the disk to another. At Lorex, we use security-grade HDDs in our recorders to store all data locally on the device.
HD-IP
High Definition Internet Protocol. An attribute of security cameras that indicates its capability to capture High Definition videos and transfer it to a Network Video Recorder using the Internet. Security cameras are typically self-contained systems connected by Ethernet cables. However, HD-IP cameras have the ability to provide access to their footage through the Internet.
HDMI Cable
High-Definition Multimedia Interference. A cable that allows the transmitting of video and audio from a device and transferring it to a compatible display device.
HDR
High Dynamic Range. A video attribute for display devices that provides better visual details such as brighter tones and more colorful hues. This is achieved by expanding the contrast ratio to offer more realistic video.
HD-SDI
High Definition - Serial Digital Interface. An attribute for a security camera that can capture HD and real-time footage and transmit its uncompressed digital version through coaxial cables.
HEVC / H.265
High-Efficiency Video Coding or also known as H.265 and MPEG-H Part 2. A video compression format that succeeded the H.264 standard. It has better data compression of up to 25% to 50% more than the H.264 with improved video quality. It can support 8K UHD resolutions (8192 x 4320).
Home Automation
The process of controlling and monitoring home processes remotely with the help of smartphones, computers or virtual assistants. Using this system converts one's house into a smart home that is fully integrated and accessible using the Internet.
I
Indoor Camera
A video camera that is optimized for use inside structures and houses. This is typically employed for security and surveillance purposes.
Infrared
A type of electromagnetic energy that is invisible to human eyes but can be felt in the form of heat. It is generated from frequencies when atoms absorb and give off energy. The term infrared denotes below the red range of visible light and was discovered by British astronomer William Herschel in 1800.
Infrared (IR) Cut Filter
A technology that blocks infrared to help camera sensors take more realistic photos. The sensitivities of camera sensors extend to the infrared region and may affect the quality of video footage.
Infrared (IR) LEDs
Light Emitting Diodes. A light source that can generate infrared rays from 700 nm to 1mm wavelength. It is commonly used in IR sensors as well as in nocturnal and diurnal security cameras to enable footage recording in the dark. The infrared rays that it emits will reflect on the subject and will return to the camera to be processed as footage.
Infrared Night Vision
The capability of an optical device to capture low light images and videos with the help of active illumination. Low light security cameras illuminate the infrared spectral range of 700-1000 nm with the help of IR LEDs and then uses its sensitivity to light to record video. It may appear as a dark image to the human eyes, but it will register as a monochrome image in a display device.
Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
It is a standard that determines the level of sealing effectiveness and efficiency in electrical enclosures to ensure that foreign bodies cannot intrude on it. These include dirt and moisture, among many possible intrusions. These ratings come from the international standard EN 60529, British BS EN 60529:1992, and European IEC 60509: 1989.
Internal IP Address
A set of numerical coordinates provided by a local network router to connect to a local area network or the Internet. It usually cannot be tracked or restricted.
Internet
A global connection of network systems that transmits various types of data using TCP/IP through wireless and fiber optic technologies. It refers more on the hardware and infrastructure of these connections. It has its origin from the US Government in the 1960s with the help of the computer network called ARPANET.
iOS
An operating system for mobile devices developed by Apple Inc. It uses multi-touch gestures and hand manipulation for its user interface. Presently, it powers the iPhone and iPad and is the second most popular OS after Google's Android.
Internet of Things (IoT)
A system wherein smart objects are linked to the Internet to communicate with each other. This helps facilitate information gathering, analysis and task action with the help of online devices.
IP
Internet Protocol. This is a set of rules and standards that oversee how the transmission of data packets will be conducted over a network. The Internet Protocol and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) work together to ensure data transmission over the Internet.
IP Address
Internet Protocol Address. A numerical value that determines the location of a device in a network. Because the Internet Protocol oversees the transmission of data packets, there should be a source and a destination. The IP address indicates where these locations can be found.
IP Camera
Internet Protocol Camera. A type of security camera that can receive tasks and can send footage once connected to the Internet. Also referred to as netcam, it doesn't require its own recording mechanism because it sends its footage directly to a local area network connection.
IP Rating
Ingress Protection Rating. A numerical value assigned to an enclosed equipment to indicate its degree of protection from various outside forces. The first digit refers to intrusion protection while the second digit is about moisture protection.
IP65 / IP66
A numerical value that indicates an ingress protection rating for enclosures that are dust tight and have protection from water that comes out of nozzles. A variety is IP66 which is also a dust-tight enclosure rating and offers protection for strong jets of water and heavy seas.
IP67
A numerical value for ingress protection rating referring to dust tight enclosures that have protection against immersion. The IP68 variety is a rating for protection against complete and continuous submersion in water.
IPv4
Internet Protocol version 4. This is the current build of the system that assigns IP addresses for users to connect to the Internet. Its capacity is 4.29 billion addresses, and this has all been assigned to various users, thereby instigating a scarcity in IP addresses.
IPv6
Internet Protocol version 6. This is the successor to IPv4 and has a capacity of 340,282,366,920,938,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 IP addresses, offering a solution to the scarcity of IP addresses. Many servers and routers are not yet fully compatible with IPv6 and troubleshooting for bugs and security issues are still underway.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. An organization that provides users with access to the Internet. They also offer related services such as web hosting, domain name registration, and colocation.
L
LAN
Local Area Network. A system in place so that computers and devices in proximity with each other can interact and share information, resources, services, and files with utmost reliability. Connectivity is usually provided either through a Wi-Fi or the Ethernet.
LED
Light Emitting Diode. A device that illuminates through the movement of electrons in a semiconductor medium. They are typically small, can fit in a circuit and has no filament that can burn out making it resilient with a long lifespan.
Lens
A component of optical devices that enables the capturing images whether through photographic film or electronic means. It is typically used on SLRs, video cameras, security cameras, telescopes, and microscopes.
Linux
An operating system for software that is open-source and free. It is the leading OS for servers, supercomputers and mainframe computers. It is also typically run on embedded systems that use a firmware such as routers, televisions, automation controls, smartphones, and video game consoles.
Lorex
Lorex is an IT company that specializes in the manufacturing, distribution, and management of video security systems including IP and MPX cameras, NVRs, DVRs, and their accessories. Lorex is headquartered in Markham, Ontario, Canada, and has offices in the United States.
Lorex Cirrus
A mobile app from Lorex that allows the user to watch video footage from their security cameras in real-time or to playback recorded video. The app has compatibility with iPad, iPhone and Android devices ensuring that remote monitoring can be done anywhere in the world as long as there is an Internet connection.
Lorex Cloud
A mobile app that is compatible with Lorex Security Systems and HD Active Deterrence Solutions. It allows users to have easy and efficient control of their systems remotely. It facilitates features such as live video playback and recording directly from handheld devices.
Lorex Home
A mobile app from Lorex that specifically caters to home residence protection. It allows remote access to video footage from security surveillance systems at home. It also sends notifications and alerts for movements within the home.
Lorex Secure
A mobile app from Lorex that allows live remote video streaming, real-time notifications, and video playback access of their compatible Lorex security cameras and security systems. Its features include Cloud or Local Storage, RapidRecap, Single Timeline, and SmartZone.
Lorex Voice Assistant
The Lorex Voice Assistant is a digital voice processor that uses voice recognition, speech synthesis, and natural language processing to execute voice commands. What separates our voice assistant from others is that your voice commands are processed locally on the device, and no voice data leaves the device. We do not upload your voice commands to the cloud or the internet. Currently, the Lorex Voice Assistant is available on the Lorex Home Center.
LTE
Long Term Evolution. A technology closely associated with 4G. It sets a standard for data speeds that should be ten times quicker than the previous 3G standard.
Lux
A unit of measurement from the SI or International System of Units that indicates illuminance and luminous emittance. It is quantified as luminous flux per unit area. It is the measure of intensity from the perception of the human eye.
M
MAC
Media Access Control. A system for data packet transmissions in a network interface card and another remotely shared channel. Its function is to provide a means for nodes available in a network to communicate with each other with the help of an addressing mechanism and channel access.
MAC Address
Media Access Control Address. It is a means to identify the presence and position of an adapter or Ethernet in a network. Through this, various network interfaces can be distinguished over IEEE 802 networks. Other variations of this term include hardware address, burned-in address, and physical address.
Megapixel
A unit of measurement to indicate a million megapixels and is usually used as a reference for the performance of digital cameras. Megapixels in an image determines its resolution and the more megapixels there are in a picture, the greater the accuracy of its details is.
Mobile Apps
Software programs that are optimized for the operating systems of smartphones and tablet computers. They provide these devices with various functionalities from utility, productivity, navigation, health, and entertainment.
Mobile Internet
Wireless access online for handheld devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. Typically, this connection encompasses browser-based Internet services. It is also based on the packet transmission systems of the Internet Protocol through an advanced cellular communications network.
Monitor
A device that provides a visual output through the synergy of circuitries, a display instrument, and a power supply. Most use a TFT-LCD or a thin film transistor liquid crystal display to exhibit displays, replacing technologies such as a cold-cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) and cathode ray tube (CRT).
MPX
Megapixel Over Coax. A technology from Lorex that allows the transmission of high definition audio, images and data. This video surveillance format allows the simple upgrading of existing analog surveillance systems.
MPX Camera
A type of camera from Lorex that can transmit high definition 1080p video over coaxial cables. It enables PTX control even without additional cables and supports BNC analog cameras by an upgrade.
N
Network
An interconnection of two or more computer systems, devices, and technologies for efficient transfers of information and resources. Its varieties include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), campus area networks (CANs), and home area networks (HANs).
Night Vision
A capability that enables to have sight in low-light conditions. It can be achieved through biological and technological means but is accomplished when there is the right blend of intensity and spectral range. Security cameras typically enable night vision through active illumination, image intensification, and thermal vision.
Nocturnals
A variety of security cameras from Lorex that has night vision capabilities. It has two modes between Color Night Vision and total darkness. The Color Night Vision feature enables the inclusion of important color details even in the dark, but it requires sufficient ambient lighting. In total darkness, the security camera will use built-in infrared LEDs to record in black and white.
NTP
Network Time Protocol. A system to synchronize clocks between computer systems to efficiently facilitate data packet transfers and variable latency. The reference is the Coordinated Universal Time or UTC and uses the intersection algorithm for the selection of the correct time servers.
NVR
Network Video Recorder. A vital component of a security surveillance system as it facilitates the storage of the recorded footage from security cameras. The NVRs of Lorex are compatible with digital IP cameras and have premium features such as Pentaplex Operation, Network Time Protocol, Remote Viewing, Different Recording Modes, Privacy Masking, and Automatic Recovery.
O
ONVIF Compliant
Open Network Video Interface Forum. An attribute of security product when it adheres to the global open standards of the ONVIF. This group facilitates the set of standards for security and surveillance cameras to follow about how these devices will communicate with each other regardless of the manufacturing company.
Operating System
An encompassing program that manages and controls hardware or software including smartphones, tablet computers, laptops, routers, and desktop computers.
Optical Zoom
A feature of an optical device that allows it to get a closer look and magnification a subject without coming near it. It uses physical means through actual lens adjustment and typically offers a better image quality than the digital zoom.
Outdoor Camera
A security camera designed to operate efficiently even as it endures all-weather situations and outside risks. There are models that are weatherproof, wireless and wire-free.
P
Pairing
A process that allows the interconnection of a security camera and its recording system usually through wireless means. This ensures the smooth operation of a security camera to store footage and to send alerts and notifications.
PC
Personal computer. A device that is designed for a single user and offers a multitude of purposes and functionalities while being cost effective. It relies heavily on microprocessor technology and the heart of its operation is the central processing unit (CPU).
PIR Motion Sensor
Passive infrared sensor. A device that allows the detection of infrared and motion when a subject or object moves within and outside the range of the sensor. These are typically pyroelectric and usually used in appliances such as security cameras.
Pixel
The smallest block of unit in a digital image. It appears as a single dot when it appears in a display device. Millions of pixels combine to create pictures and videos.
PoE
Power over Ethernet. A technology that allows the transit of electricity over network cables. This helps in the reduction. A cable that has POE capabilities can provide both network and power connection for devices such as security cameras.
PoE Switch
Power over Ethernet Switch. A device that can detect whether a network cable has compatibility with PoE technology to supply electrical power.
Port Forwarding
A system that allows remote devices and computers to connect to a private network. It works through the application of a network address translation (NAT). Some of its usages include running a public HTTP server within a private local area network and allowing FTP access to a host from the Internet.
Privacy Masking
A feature available to IP cameras intended for privacy protection by hiding parts of an image with a masked area. Users can specify an area that needs to be masked such as car plate numbers or home windows and security cameras will always cover these areas when recording footage.
PTZ Camera
Pan Tilt Zoom Camera. A type of security camera that can be controlled remotely to do zoom and directional movements. These cameras are typically connected to a digital video recorder for the most comprehensive field of view without sacrificing quality.
Q
Quick Startup Guide
A set of instructions and tasks to ensure the optimum performance of security cameras and surveillance systems from Lorex.
R
RapidRecap
A process that allows the interconnection of a security camera and its recording system usually through wireless means. This ensures the smooth operation of a security camera to store footage and to send alerts and notifications.
RCA Cable
A type of electrical cable designed by the Radio Corporation of America. Its primary function is to transport both audio and video signals. It is also known as a phono connector or a Cinch connector.
Receiver
A device that is part of a wireless system. Its function is to accept the radio signal broadcast from a transmitter and convert it back into a signal that can be processed by the system. It is typically used with an antenna and is a vital component of modern technology systems.
Regional Motion Zones
A feature available in Lorex data and network video recorders that allows cameras to be adjusted in terms of movement sensitivity and threshold. Each camera can have four motion zones.
Remote Monitoring
A feature that allows control and configuration of a device or a system even when the user is far away. This is typically achieved with the help of a mobile app that has access to a wireless network.
Remote Viewing
A technology from Lorex that allows users to playback footage from security cameras to a mobile device or network device. It's a functionality that offers access to video wherever the user may be. It achieves this through an exclusive 24/7 DDNS service and an easy to remember web site address.
RG6
Radio Guide 6. A type of network cable that has insulation, shielding and heavier gauging for applications that require high bandwidths and frequencies. It is typically used for the Internet, Satellite TV and Cable TV.
RG59
Radio Guide 59. A variation of the RG6 cable but is specifically designed for CCTV security camera systems and analog video signals. This cable is best used for applications that require frequencies lower than 50 MHz.
RG45
Radio Guide 45. A network cable with CAT6E standards typically used for 10GB networks. It is designed to connect to a laptop or router using an RJ45 connector.
RJ45
Registered Jack 45. A type of connector typically used for Ethernet networking purposes. It is similar to a telephone jack but has a wider base. The 45 is an indicator of the interface standard. A cable with an RJ45 connector has eight pins that link to eight separate wires.
Router
A type of network device that permits communication between local home network devices such as computers and smartphones to the Internet. It connects either through network cables or through wireless standards.
RS-485
Recommended Standard-485. An industry standard that sets the electrical characteristics of drivers and receivers within a serial communications system. Digital communications that use this standard can efficiently operate even in electrically noisy environments or long distances.
S
Security Camera
An optical device that can record footage as a means to detect and prevent crime whether for homes or business offices.
Security System
A technology that allows more functionalities for security cameras by linking it to a network that includes a video recorder and online access. Users can access video playback real-time and remotely through the Internet.
Sensor
A technology that processes optical information such as light and converts it into electronic signals that can be recorded and previewed on a display device.
Smart Home
A concept for a residence or home that optimizes its performance and maintenance through the use of interconnected devices and gadgets linked through the Internet. This technology allows remote monitoring of one's home and better organization of tasks.
SSID
Service Set Identifier. It is a case-sensitive text string that is used to refer to Wi-Fi wireless networks. This is the primary indicator of an 802.11 wireless local area network.
SSD
Unlike the HDD, the solid state drive (SSD) is a newer type of storage disk that stores data on flash memory or integrated circuits. Since there are no moving parts like the HDD, SSD is relatively smaller and can fit in slim laptops and convertible devices. At Lorex, we use SSD as an optional storage solution for the Lorex Home Center.
Static IP Address
Static Internet Protocol Address. A numerical value that is manually configured to refer to a device on the Internet. It doesn't change unlike dynamic IP addresses from DHCP servers. Using this address makes it easier to be found in a network.
T
Terabyte
A numerical unit that indicates digital information storage of up to 1,000 gigabytes. It follows the SI standard.
Transmitter
A device that can convert signals and messages into electromagnetic waves and sends it wirelessly to a receiver. There are security cameras that are also transmitters when they communicate their footage to a security system recorder.
TVL
Television Lines. A numerical value for most standard definition cameras. It measures the number of vertical lines that a camera can record. It is highly dependent on the aspect ratio of its display output.
Two-Way Audio
A technology that permits two users to have free phone calls using an Internet connection. This requires the conversion of analog audio signals from voices into digital data transmissions to the Internet.
U
UL Certified
An attribute of a device when it has passed the safety testing standards of the company UL LLC. Formerly known as Underwriters Laboratories, this company maintains Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories to check specific products.
URL
Uniform Resource Locator. A specific location for a website resource. It contains information such as the protocol used and server location.
V
Vandal Proof (IK10)
An attribute of outdoor security cameras that adds sufficient protection to the device from strong impacts and outside tampering. It can continue operation even if it sustains considerable damage and it also has additional specifications for weather protection.
Varifocal Lens
A type of optical lens that can offer the flexibility of fields of view. Several of its features can be adjusted such as zoom level, the angle of view and focal length. Security cameras with this type of lens can provide greater details for video playback.
VGA Cable
Video Graphics Array Cable. A type of network connector typically used for projectors and monitors. It is primarily designed to be connected to a video card and has 15 pin connectors.
VGA Resolution
A display resolution that clocks in at 640 x 480 and is typically used on display devices. This standard was developed by IBM in 1987.
Video
An electronic medium that effectively combines audio playback and moving visual images. Its variations depend on factors such as aspect ratio, display resolution, color capabilities, and refresh rate. It comes in both analog and digital varieties.
Video Motion Detection
A capability of video surveillance systems to identify movement in its field of view and to record these incidents. It is typically powered by software that runs on a monitoring algorithm. All of Lorex's security cameras are equipped with advanced motion detection technology.
VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol. The capability to transmit audio signals over the Internet like a phone call. It requires the conversion of analog sound into digital data to facilitate its transmission over the Internet.
VPN
Virtual Private Network. A protected connection over the Internet that uses encryption technologies to ensure the safe transmission of data. Unauthorized users without credentials will be unable to access any data that is transmitted over the VPN.
W
Wi-Fi
Wireless Fidelity. A trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance that refers to wireless networking of devices and the Internet using the IEEE 802.11 standard. The online connection is secured through a wireless local area network and a wireless access hotspot with a range of about 20 meters.
Wire-Free Camera
A type of security camera from Lorex that require no cables and operate by resilient batteries. They also start recording footage when they detect motion in their field of view. Lorex has a great lineup of wire-free cameras.
Wireless Camera
A security camera from Lorex that transmits its video footage wirelessly to a video recorder that allows immense storage capabilities and remote access through the Internet for video playback. It doesn't have batteries and has to be plugged on an electrical outlet. Lorex has a rich lineup of wireless cameras.