A dome security camera is often designed to operate inside or out, with an ability to capture an image in total darkness and to span a complete 360-degree view, all with a camera enclosed in an attractive protective housing.

In night or low-light conditions, a video surveillance camera of this nature features a photo sensor, which is able to switch the camera to a black and white recording. The infrared lights, with high-powered LED's allow a dome camera to enhance low-light viewing, with an ability to see 20 - 50 ft in complete darkness. A dome surveillance camera can also feature a built-in microphone to offer an audio recording.

Constructed in a sturdy weather and vandal-proof housing, of die-cast aluminum, these camera's automatically switch from color to black and white all dependent on the viewing conditions. A vivid and clear image in color is available in bright light conditions and once low-light conditions set in, the camera switches over to a black & white recording. Within the confines of the housing is a hi-resolution mini-camera, with an external adjustable Vari-focal lens (4-9mm).

These dome security cameras are often easy to install on a ceiling or wall space, fix in place the brackets, mount the camera system, and attach the cable. If mounted to a ceiling it’s often more possible to hide the cabling out of sight.

In addition, for those equipped with a manual tilt or pan feature its makes directing a camera at the ideal angle a simple process, without a need to reposition in a different location or take it apart. Other features seen in these cameras include automatic backlight compensation, white balance detector, and low-power consumption.

A fake dome security camera is a cost-effective solution; often cost a fraction of the real thing, to deter a theft or act of vandalism without the high cost that's often associated with a real outdoor surveillance set-up. These imitation cameras often use the same housing of an actual camera but with the inner working removed, to leave even a sophisticated criminal thinking that the premises are protected.

A dome camera is unobtrusive and well protected to offer an effective home or business security set-up with a camera that records a clear and crisp image day or night.