Quote ="JerryChicken"To be honest I wouldn't be surprised by the number of cctv cameras that simply don't work, or are located badly or too far away to get any half decent images, or simply not maintained in order to provide anything in focus with enough detail to identify anything at all, you can add to that list speed cameras.
How many times on programs like Crimewatch do we see cctv coverage from INSIDE private businesses (shops etc) but then NO public cctv images, thats because the business has a vested interest in having top quality images and maintaining the equipment correctly whereas the local council got a government grant to install their street cctv years (decades) ago but have never had the ongoing budget to update or maintain what they have, your local ciggie shop probably has a better system than most city centres.
And don't even start me on what we are supposed to believe is comprehensive cctv coverage of Downing Street.
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The really old cameras used to break down a lot. But not the newer versions. I did a short spell working as a data analyst on a temporary basis for a major security company with all kinds of national contracts. Speaking to their engineers, since they shifted away from using optical data recorders the equipment is largely bomb proof, automatic and autonomous.
Sure, the likes of the corner shop and such aren't likely to spend a lot on CCTV and you largely get what you pay for. But the big department stores, major installations, schools, the cops etc. really do need to cover their backsides should anything major happen. For several years now the equipment they've had has provided excellent coverage and is very reliable. It has to be.
Well ... until it isn't.
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