Required Monitor Specs

• CCTV monitors used for security monitoring should have 1280 x 1024 resolution and work with both PAL and NTSC signal modes. CCTV monitors are on 24/7 for security purposes; therefore, the environmental specifications such as operating temperature and the voltage needed must be maintained at all times. CCTV monitors come in two models when it comes to color -- black and white or color. Color monitors are most often used, however, black and white models still exist.
  
  

Connecting without DVR

• Some CCTV monitors will have BNC connection capability built in for cameras that don't require recording and are used for viewing only. The camera is plugged into the back of the CCTV monitor. This method was popular when DVR prices were in the thousands of dollars. Nowadays, almost every new CCTV monitor installation will be connected to a DVR.
  
  

Setting up a DVR Connection

• If a DVR is installed, then a connection has to be made between the monitor and the DVR. RGB is a monitor socket that accepts incoming connections from the DVR's channels, either 1 or 2. RGB is a three row blue connector at the back of the monitor. Some monitors will have a HDTV connection to be used with HD DRVs. The connection will be marked "DVI-D." For long distance connectors, if the DVR is in a different place than the monitor, a BNC connector will be used for video. Check to see if the monitor supports BNC video. BNC can also be used for audio. One cable can have three BNC plugs, one for video and two for audio connections.