The very first CCTV surveillance systems in use employed relatively crude, conspicuous, low-definition black and white camera units that lacked the ability to zoom or pan. Still, these were quite useful since they helped operators keep an eye on multiple locations simultaneously, while the large units themselves served as a sort of crime deterrent. After all, if a camera was present, potential burglars and thieves were immediately discouraged from even attempting something at all.

However, CCTV surveillance systems today benefit from the latest advancements in microtechnology and power efficiency to deliver full-color videos in a format that can easily be saved, reviewed and manipulated for greater focus and accuracy. In fact, these videos are usually clear enough to stand as legal evidence should circumstances call for it.

Modern surveillance systems use small, high-definition cameras that are easily hidden, are less maintenance-intensive and can focus to resolve minute details clearly. They can also be completely computer-controlled, and thus can be used with other video-related hardware and applications. Video sensors for digital image analysis, for example, can be integrated into CCTV surveillance systems to look for specific objects or targets. Some systems can be programmed to start recording when a partnered alarm is tripped, or at certain user-specified times.

With the power of the Internet entering every facet of human life, it was inevitable that the surveillance industry would soon benefit from this networking solution. CCTV surveillance systems now exist that can do things like report events, store and stream video, and even be programmed to record automatically all via an Internet connection with their owners. Even more advancements are in the pipeline, but as it stands today, CCTV systems have already moved light years away from their bulky monochrome predecessors.