GLOSSARY OF TERMS
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2-Way Talk
Allows users to listen and speak through the camera using a built-in microphone and speaker. This enables real-time communication with people near the camera.
A
Abandoned Object Detection
Detects when an object has been left unattended within a defined area for a set period of time. This feature can trigger alerts when items such as bags or packages are left behind.
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.
AI Color Night Vision
A camera feature that uses AI-powered image processing to enhance low-light footage and produce clear color video at night. By analyzing available light, it improves brightness, reduces image noise, and reveals more detail in dark scenes.
Amazon Alexa
Amazon Alexa is supported by select Lorex products, allowing you to control your security system using voice commands. With Alexa integration, you can view live camera feeds on compatible smart displays, enable or disable certain features, and enhance hands-free monitoring as part of your smart home setup.
Analog Security
Analog security systems use coaxial cables to transmit video from cameras to a recorder. Modern analog technologies can deliver high-definition video quality, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution for surveillance. These systems are often ideal for upgrading existing installations that already use coax cabling, allowing for improved image clarity without requiring a full system overhaul..
Android
Lorex mobile apps are compatible with Android devices, allowing you to view live camera feeds, receive motion alerts, and manage your security system from your smartphone or tablet. This ensures convenient, on-the-go access to your Lorex system through Android platforms.
Animal Detection
Uses AI to identify animals within the camera’s field of view. This feature is typically designed for outdoor monitoring and can distinguish animals from people or vehicles to reduce false alerts.
Area Entrance Detection
Detects when a person, vehicle, or other object enters a defined area within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts when activity is detected inside the selected zone.
Area Exit Detection
Detects when a person, vehicle, or other object leaves a defined area within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts when activity exits the selected zone.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhances security monitoring by enabling smart detection features such as person, vehicle, and animal recognition—helping reduce false alerts and making it easier to quickly locate important footage. Advanced AI analytics provide deeper insights into activity patterns, supporting improved operational awareness, streamlined security workflows, and more informed decision-making for both homes and businesses.
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
Audio recording allows you to capture sound alongside video for enhanced situational awareness. Select Lorex cameras feature listen-in audio and two-way talk, enabling you to hear activity, communicate through your camera, and add an extra layer of security and interaction to your monitoring experience.
Audio Warning
Allows pre-recorded warning messages to play through the camera’s speaker when motion or other events are detected. This feature helps deter unwanted activity by providing an audible alert.
B
Backup Encryption
Protects backed-up video files by encrypting them so they cannot be accessed without proper authorization. This helps ensure that recorded footage remains secure during storage or transfer.
Battery-Powered Camera
Battery-powered (wire-free) Lorex cameras offer flexible, easy installation without the need for power cabling. Designed for convenience and versatility, these cameras can be placed virtually anywhere and are ideal for locations where wiring is not practical. Select models can be paired with solar panels for continuous power, reducing the need for manual recharging while maintaining reliable, on-the-go security.
BNC
BNC (Bayonet Neill–Concelman) is a type of connector used with coaxial cables to transmit video signals. In Lorex security systems, BNC coaxial connections are commonly used to link Analog cameras to recorders, providing a stable and reliable signal.
Bullet Camera
Bullet cameras are named for their long, cylindrical shape and are ideal for monitoring outdoor areas such as driveways, entrances, and perimeters. Their visible design can also help deter potential intruders while providing focused coverage of specific zones.
C
Channel Name
A customizable label assigned to a camera channel. This name appears on the video feed to help identify the camera’s location or purpose.
Channels
Channels refer to the number of cameras that can be connected to a Lorex recorder (DVR or NVR). For example, an 8-channel system supports up to 8 cameras, while 16- and 32-channel systems allow for larger setups and future expansion.
Cloud Storage
Lorex Cloud Storage allows you to securely store video recordings online through a subscription-based service. This provides an additional backup option alongside local storage and enables remote access to your footage from anywhere. In some cases, Lorex also uses the cloud to temporarily store event thumbnails for motion notifications. These thumbnails are short-lived, securely stored, and can be disabled, giving you full control over your privacy and ensuring nothing is stored in the cloud if preferred.
CM Rated Cables
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.
CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor)
CMOS is a type of image sensor used in many Lorex security cameras to capture video. Known for its energy efficiency and high-quality image processing, CMOS sensors help deliver clear video with accurate color and detail.
CMR Rated Cables
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.
Coaxial Cable (RG59 / RG6)
Coaxial cables, such as RG59 and RG6, are used in Lorex analog security systems to transmit video signals between cameras and recorders. RG59 is commonly used for CCTV applications, while RG6 may be used for longer distances or higher-frequency signals. These cables provide a reliable connection for HD-over-coax systems.
Color Night Vision (CNV)
Color Night Vision (CNV) is a Lorex technology that enables compatible security cameras to capture full-color video in low-light conditions. By using advanced image sensors with enhanced light sensitivity, CNV cameras can produce clearer, more detailed nighttime footage compared to traditional black-and-white night vision.
Continuous Recording
Records video continuously, regardless of motion or events. This ensures that all activity is captured and stored for later review.
D
Day/Night Mode
Day/Night mode in Lorex cameras automatically switches between full-color daytime recording and enhanced nighttime visibility using low-light or infrared technology. This transition is managed by an IR-cut filter, ensuring accurate colors during the day and improved clarity in dark conditions without any manual adjustment.
DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System)
DDNS allows you to remotely access your Lorex security system using a fixed web address, even if your internet provider assigns a changing IP address. This enables direct access to your system through a web browser—without needing to use a mobile app—making it a useful option for advanced or alternative remote viewing setups.
Detection Regions
Allows users to define or adjust specific areas within the camera’s field of view where detection events will be monitored. This helps focus alerts on important zones while ignoring irrelevant movement.
Defog
An image enhancement feature that improves visibility in foggy, misty, or hazy conditions. It works by digitally adjusting contrast and clarity to help reveal details that may be obscured by atmospheric haze.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
DHCP is a network feature that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on your network, including Lorex cameras and recorders. This allows your system to connect quickly and easily without requiring manual network setup.
Digital Zoom
Digital zoom in Lorex cameras allows you to zoom in on a specific area of your video by enlarging a portion of the image. This is typically done through the Lorex app or recorder interface, making it easy to focus on details during live viewing or playback. Because digital zoom enlarges existing pixels, image clarity may decrease as you zoom in.
Display Resolution
Display resolution refers to the level of detail shown in video footage, measured in pixels. In Lorex security systems, higher resolutions—such as 1080p (Full HD), 2K, and 4K (Ultra HD)—provide sharper images, making it easier to identify important details like faces, license plates, and activity.
DNS (Domain Name System)
DNS translates website addresses into IP addresses, allowing devices on a network to connect to online services. In Lorex systems, DNS helps enable features like remote access, system updates, and communication with online services without requiring manual network configuration.
Dome Camera
Dome cameras feature a compact, dome-shaped design that makes it difficult to determine the direction the camera is facing, helping to deter unwanted activity. Many Lorex dome cameras are built with durable, vandal-resistant housings and are especially well-suited for indoor use, where their low-profile design blends seamlessly into ceilings while providing discreet and reliable monitoring.
Dual-Line Crossing Detection
Detects when a person, vehicle, or other object crosses two defined virtual lines within the camera’s field of view. This helps monitor movement between two points and can trigger alerts when both lines are crossed.
DVR (Digital Video Recorder)
A DVR is a device used in Lorex wired security systems to record and store video from analog cameras. It connects to cameras using coaxial cables and processes the footage for viewing, playback, and storage. DVRs are commonly used in HD-over-coax systems and are ideal for upgrading existing analog setups.
Dynamic IP Address
A dynamic IP address is an automatically assigned internet address that can change over time. In Lorex systems, this means your network’s IP address may update periodically, which is why features like remote access and DDNS are used to maintain a consistent connection.
E
Encryption
Encryption in Lorex security systems helps protect your data by converting it into a secure format that cannot be easily accessed by unauthorized users. This is used to safeguard video footage, system communication, and remote access, helping ensure your privacy and security when viewing or managing your system online.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a wired network connection used in Lorex security systems to link cameras, recorders, and routers. In Lorex NVR systems, Ethernet cables are used to transmit both video and power to cameras through Power over Ethernet (PoE), providing a reliable and simplified installation.
Ethernet Cables (Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6)
Ethernet cables—such as Cat5e and Cat6—are used in Lorex IP security systems to connect cameras to recorders and networks. These cables transmit both data and power (with Power over Ethernet), making installation simpler and more efficient. Higher-category cables like Cat6 offer improved performance and reliability, especially for longer distances and higher-resolution video.
ETL Certification
ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories) certification indicates that a Lorex product has been tested by a third-party safety organization and meets established North American safety standards. This certification helps ensure that products are compliant, reliable, and safe for use in residential and commercial environments.
Event Recording
Records video only when a specified event occurs, such as motion detection or an AI detection trigger. This helps save storage space by capturing footage only when activity is detected.
External IP Address
An external IP address is the public internet address assigned to your network by your internet service provider. In Lorex systems, it is used to enable remote access, allowing you to connect to your security system from outside your home or business network.
F
Face Capture
Automatically captures images of detected faces within the camera’s field of view. These captured images can be stored and used for identification, review, or facial recognition features.
Face Data
Stored facial information collected from captured faces that is used by the system for facial recognition and identification. This data allows the system to match detected faces against known individuals in the database.
Face Detection
Uses AI to detect the presence of a human face within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts when a face is identified.
Face Recognition
Uses AI to identify and match detected faces against a stored face database. This feature can recognize known individuals and trigger alerts—or suppress them—based on user-defined settings.
FHSS (Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum)
FHSS is a wireless transmission technology used in some Lorex security systems to provide a stable and secure signal between cameras and receivers. By rapidly switching between frequencies, it helps reduce interference and maintain a more reliable connection.
Field of View
Field of view (FOV) refers to how much area a Lorex camera can capture in its image, typically measured in degrees. A wider field of view allows you to monitor larger spaces with a single camera, while a narrower field of view provides more focused coverage of a specific area.
Fire Detection
Detects visible flames within the camera’s field of view and can trigger alerts when fire-like activity is identified, helping provide early warning of potential fire hazards.
Firmware Update
A firmware update is a software update for your Lorex device that improves performance, adds new features, and enhances security. Keeping your system up to date helps protect against vulnerabilities while ensuring your cameras and recorder continue to operate reliably.
Fixed Lens
A fixed lens in Lorex security cameras provides a set viewing angle that cannot be adjusted or zoomed. These cameras are ideal for monitoring specific areas where consistent coverage is needed.
Flip Image
Reverses the camera image vertically to correct the viewing orientation when the camera is mounted upside down or in certain installation positions.
Frame Rate
Frame rate refers to how many frames are displayed per second in video footage. In Lorex security systems, frame rate is measured in FPS (frames per second), with higher values providing smoother motion during live viewing and playback.
Fusion
Lorex Fusion™ allows you to combine wired and wireless security devices within a single system. Compatible Fusion recorders (NVRs or DVRs) can connect with select Wi-Fi cameras, video doorbells cameras, and floodlight cameras through the Lorex Classic app, enabling centralized monitoring, recording, and system management. The number of supported wireless devices may vary by system.
H
H.264
H.264 is a video compression technology used in some Lorex security cameras or systems to record and store footage efficiently. It reduces file sizes while maintaining good video quality, allowing for longer recording times and more efficient use of storage space.
Hard Drive (HDD)
A hard drive (HDD) is the storage device used in Lorex recorders to store video footage. Lorex systems use security-grade hard drives designed for continuous recording, allowing you to store and access video locally for playback and review.
HDMI Cable
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a cable used in Lorex systems to connect a DVR or NVR to a monitor or TV. It transmits high-definition video and audio through a single cable, providing a clear and convenient way to view live footage and recordings.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)
HDR (High Dynamic Range) in Lorex cameras improves image quality by enhancing contrast and balancing bright and dark areas within a scene. This helps capture more detail in challenging lighting conditions, such as areas with strong backlight or shadows.
HEVC / H.265
HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding), also known as H.265, is a video compression technology used in Lorex security systems to reduce file sizes while maintaining high video quality. Compared to H.264, it allows for more efficient storage and longer recording times without requiring additional hard drive space.
I
Image Rotation
Allows the camera image to be rotated to match the camera’s installation orientation. This helps ensure the video appears correctly when the camera is mounted in different positions.
Indoor Camera
Indoor cameras are designed for use inside homes and businesses, providing clear video monitoring of interior spaces such as living areas, hallways, and entry points. Lorex indoor cameras often feature compact designs, two-way audio, and smart motion detection for convenient and discreet monitoring.
Infrared (IR) Cut Filter
An IR cut filter in Lorex cameras automatically adjusts how infrared light is processed, ensuring accurate color during the day and improved visibility at night. It works by blocking infrared light in daylight conditions and allowing it in low-light environments for better nighttime performance.
Infrared (IR) Night Vision
Infrared (IR) night vision in Lorex cameras allows you to capture clear video in low-light or complete darkness. The camera uses infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye, to illuminate the scene and produce black-and-white footage at night. This technology enables reliable 24/7 monitoring without the need for external lighting.
Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
An IP rating indicates how well a Lorex camera is protected against dust and water. Common ratings such as IP66 and IP67 are designed for outdoor use and protection against harsh weather conditions. In these ratings, the first number represents protection against solid objects like dust, while the second number indicates resistance to liquids. Higher numbers provide greater protection.
Internal IP Address
An internal IP address is a private address assigned to devices on your local network, such as Lorex cameras and recorders. It is used for communication within your home or business network and is not accessible from outside the network.
Intrusion Detection
Detects when a person, vehicle, or other object enters or lingers within a defined area. This feature can trigger alerts when activity is detected inside the selected zone.
iOS
Lorex mobile apps are compatible with iOS devices, allowing you to view live camera feeds, receive motion alerts, and manage your security system from your iPhone or iPad. This provides convenient, on-the-go access to your Lorex system through the iOS platform.
IP Address (Internet Protocol)
An IP address is a unique number assigned to each device on a network, allowing devices like Lorex cameras and recorders to communicate with each other. It is based on Internet Protocol (IP), which is the standard used to transmit data across networks.
IP Camera
An IP camera captures video and transmits it over a network using Ethernet connections. These cameras feature onboard processing that enables advanced functions such as AI detection, video analytics, and firmware updates. They connect to NVRs, and with Power over Ethernet (PoE), a single cable delivers power to the camera while transmitting video and data between the camera and the recorder for simple and efficient installation.
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4)
IPv4 is the most common format used to assign IP addresses to devices on a network, including Lorex cameras and recorders. It enables communication between devices within a local network and supports features like remote access.
IPv6
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6). IPv6 is a newer format for assigning IP addresses to devices on a network, including Lorex cameras and recorders. It supports communication between devices and is designed to accommodate a larger number of connected devices.
L
LAN (Local Area Network)
A LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that connects devices within a home or business, such as Lorex cameras, recorders, and routers. It allows these devices to communicate with each other for video transmission, system management, and local access.
LED (Light Emitting Diode)
An LED (Light Emitting Diode) is a small electronic light source used in many devices. In Lorex security cameras, LEDs are used to enhance visibility, including infrared (IR) LEDs for night vision and visible LEDs for deterrence and color night video.
Lens
A lens is the part of a camera that captures and focuses light to create an image. Different lens types and sizes affect the camera’s field of view and level of detail, helping determine how much area is covered and how close objects appear.
License Plate Capture
Automatically detects and captures images of vehicle license plates within the camera’s field of view. These images can be stored for review or used with license plate recognition features.
Line-Crossing Detection
Detects when a person, vehicle, or other object crosses a defined virtual line within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts when the line is crossed in a monitored direction.
Local Storage
Local storage in Lorex systems allows video footage to be saved directly on a device, such as a recorder or camera, without relying on cloud services. This provides greater control over your data, enhanced privacy, and reliable access to recordings.
Lorex Mobile Apps
Lorex mobile apps allow you to monitor and manage your security system from your smartphone or tablet. Depending on your system, apps such as Lorex Connect, Lorex Classic, or Lorex Pro provide access to live viewing, playback, motion alerts, and system controls for convenient remote monitoring.
Lux
Lux is a unit used to measure light levels. In Lorex cameras, lower lux ratings indicate better performance in low-light conditions, helping the camera capture clearer video in darker environments.
M
MAC Address (Media Access Control)
A MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to a device on a network, such as a Lorex camera or recorder. It is used to distinguish devices within a local network and may be required for advanced setup, network configuration, or troubleshooting.
Mask Detection
Uses AI to detect when a person enters the camera’s field of view without wearing a face mask. This feature can trigger alerts, recordings, or automated responses when an unmasked face is detected.
Megapixel
A megapixel (MP) is a unit used to measure image resolution, where one megapixel equals one million pixels. In Lorex security cameras, higher megapixel counts generally provide sharper images with more detail. For example, an 8MP camera typically delivers 4K (Ultra HD) resolution, offering clear and detailed video for monitoring.
Mirror Image
Reverses the camera image horizontally, creating a mirrored view of the scene. This feature can be used to correct the viewing orientation depending on how the camera is installed.
Motion Detection
Motion detection in Lorex systems identifies movement within a camera’s field of view and can trigger recordings and alerts. Modern systems may use advanced technologies such as video-based detection and AI to improve accuracy and reduce false alerts.
Motion Zones (Regional Motion Detection)
Motion zones in Lorex systems allow you to define specific areas within a camera’s view where motion detection is active. This helps reduce unnecessary alerts by focusing on important areas—such as entry points or driveways—while ignoring less relevant movement.
MPX (Megapixel over Coax)
MPX refers to a Lorex video technology that allows high-definition video to be transmitted over traditional coaxial cables used by analog camera systems. It enables users to upgrade existing analog setups to higher resolution cameras without replacing their wiring.
N
Nano Codec
A video compression technology that reduces the size of recorded video files while maintaining image quality. This helps lower bandwidth usage and extend available storage capacity for surveillance recordings.
Night Vision
Night vision in Lorex cameras refers to the ability to capture video in low-light or dark conditions. This can include infrared (IR) night vision for black-and-white footage and color night vision technologies that provide full-color video in low-light environments.
NTP (Network Time Protocol)
NTP is a feature that keeps the time on your Lorex system accurate by automatically syncing it with internet time servers. This ensures that video recordings and events have the correct timestamps for easier playback and review.
NVR (Network Video Recorder)
An NVR is a device used in Lorex security systems to record and store video from IP cameras. It connects to cameras over a network and allows you to view live footage, playback recordings, and manage your system in one place. NVRs are commonly used with Power over Ethernet (PoE) cameras for simple and efficient installation.
O
Object Removal Detection
Detects when an object is removed from a defined area within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts when items such as equipment, displays, or packages are taken.
ONVIF Compliant
ONVIF compliance means that a Lorex device follows industry standards that allow it to communicate with other compatible security products. This can enable interoperability between cameras and recorders from different manufacturers, depending on feature support.
Optical Zoom
Optical zoom in Lorex cameras allows you to zoom in on a subject by adjusting the camera’s lens, providing a closer view without losing image quality. This makes it useful for monitoring specific areas while maintaining clear detail, especially compared to digital zoom.
Outdoor Camera
Outdoor cameras are designed to withstand weather conditions such as rain, snow, and temperature changes. Lorex outdoor cameras typically feature weather-resistant housings and are ideal for monitoring areas like entrances, driveways, and perimeters.
Overlay
Displays additional information directly on the video feed, such as the camera name, date, time, or the Lorex logo. This helps provide context and makes recorded footage easier to identify and review.
P
Package Detection
Uses AI to identify when a package is placed within the camera’s field of view. This feature can trigger alerts to notify users of potential deliveries or dropped-off items.
Pairing
Pairing is the process of connecting a Lorex camera to a recorder or system so they can communicate with each other. This allows the camera to transmit video, store recordings, and enable features like alerts and system control.
Person Detection
Uses AI to identify human presence within the camera’s field of view. This feature helps reduce false alerts by distinguishing people from other types of motion.
Pet Detection
Uses AI to identify common household pets, such as cats or dogs, within the camera’s field of view. This feature helps distinguish pets from people or other motion events.
PIR Motion Sensor
A PIR (Passive Infrared) motion sensor detects movement by sensing changes in heat from people or animals. It is used in some Lorex cameras to help trigger motion alerts and recordings.
PoE (Power over Ethernet)
PoE (Power over Ethernet) is a technology used in Lorex IP systems that allows a single Ethernet cable to deliver power to the camera while transmitting video and data to the NVR. This simplifies installation by reducing the need for separate power cables while maintaining a reliable connection.
PoE Switch
A PoE switch is a device that provides Power over Ethernet (PoE) to multiple cameras through Ethernet cables. In Lorex systems, it can be used to connect additional IP cameras when the number of cameras exceeds the available PoE ports on the NVR. For example, a 32-channel NVR may only have 16 built-in PoE ports, requiring a PoE switch to connect additional cameras. It can also help extend camera distances and simplify installation by reducing the need for separate power cables.
Port Forwarding
Port forwarding is a network setup that allows you to access your Lorex system remotely from outside your local network. It involves configuring your router to direct incoming connections to your recorder or camera. This is typically used for advanced remote access setups without using a mobile app.
Privacy Masking
Allows users to block or hide specific areas within the camera’s field of view. Masked areas appear covered on the video feed to protect privacy or prevent sensitive information from being recorded.
PTZ Camera (Pan-Tilt-Zoom)
A PTZ camera is a type of Lorex security camera that can be remotely controlled to pan (move side to side), tilt (move up and down), and zoom in on specific areas. This allows for flexible monitoring of large spaces while maintaining detailed views when needed.
R
Re-Identification
Uses AI to recognize and match the same person or vehicle across different cameras or at different times within a system. This helps track movement and identify repeated appearances across multiple areas.
Red and Blue Light
Deterrent lights designed to draw immediate attention and discourage unwanted activity. They can be set to stay on continuously, follow a schedule, or activate when motion is detected, creating a clear visual warning that the area is under surveillance.
Remote Monitoring
Remote monitoring allows you to access and manage your Lorex security system from anywhere using a mobile device or computer. This includes viewing live camera feeds, receiving alerts, and reviewing recorded footage over an internet connection.
RJ45
RJ45 is a type of connector used on Ethernet cables in Lorex security systems. It connects IP cameras, recorders, and network devices, enabling video and data transmission—and in PoE systems, power delivery—through a single cable.
Rotate Image
Rotates the camera image to adjust the viewing orientation. This feature helps ensure the video appears correctly when the camera is installed in different mounting positions.
RS-485
RS-485 is a communication standard used in some Lorex systems to control devices such as PTZ cameras over a wired connection. It is commonly used for sending control signals over longer distances in wired installations.
S
Security Camera
A security camera is a device used to monitor and record video for homes and businesses. Lorex security cameras offer features such as high-resolution video, night vision, smart detection, and remote access, helping you stay aware of activity and enhance security.
Security System
A security system in Lorex products refers to a complete setup that includes cameras and a recorder working together to monitor and record activity. It allows you to view live footage, review recordings, and manage your system in one place.
Sensor
A sensor is a component in a Lorex camera that captures light and converts it into a digital image. The quality of the sensor plays a key role in image clarity, color accuracy, and low-light performance.
Siren
An audible warning alarm designed to deter unwanted activity. The siren can be triggered automatically by motion events or activated manually through the system or app.
Smart Home Integration
Lorex systems can integrate with select smart home platforms, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home. This allows you to view camera feeds on compatible smart displays and control certain features using voice commands, adding convenience to your home monitoring experience.
Smart Search+
An AI-powered playback feature that allows users to quickly search recorded footage using detection events such as people, vehicles, faces, colors, numbers, or other AI analytics. This helps locate specific moments in recordings without manually reviewing long video timelines.
Smart Timeline
A playback timeline that highlights recorded events and AI detections, making it easier to navigate footage and quickly jump to moments of activity. This helps users review recordings more efficiently.
Smoke Detection
Detects the presence of smoke within the camera’s field of view and can trigger alerts when smoke-like activity is identified. This feature helps provide early awareness of potential fire hazards.
Snapshot
A snapshot is a still image captured from live camera footage or recorded video in a Lorex system. Snapshots can be saved for quick reference, sharing, or evidence.
Sound Detection
Detects sounds within the camera’s environment and can trigger alerts when audio above a set threshold is detected. This feature helps notify users of unusual noise or activity.
SSD (Solid State Drive)
An SSD is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data. Unlike traditional hard drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, allowing for faster performance, improved durability, and more compact designs.
SSID (Service Set Identifier)
An SSID is the name of a Wi-Fi network. In Lorex systems, it is used when connecting wireless cameras or devices to your network during setup.
Static IP Address
A static IP address is a fixed internet address that does not change over time. In Lorex systems, it can be used for consistent remote access or advanced network setups where a stable connection is required.
Storage
Storage refers to how video footage is saved in Lorex security cameras or systems. Most Lorex DVRs and NVRs use built-in hard drives to store recordings locally for playback and review. Some wireless and battery-powered cameras may also support microSD card storage for on-device recording. In addition to local storage, optional cloud storage may be available for select products, providing remote access and backup flexibility. Storage options can support continuous or motion-based recording depending on your system.
Storage Error
Indicates a problem with the system’s storage device, such as a hard drive or SD card failure. When detected, the system can trigger an alert to notify users that recordings may not be saved properly.
Storage Management
Storage management in Lorex systems allows you to control how video recordings are saved, including settings for recording modes, storage usage, and automatic overwriting when storage space is full.
T
Terabyte
A terabyte (TB) is a unit of digital storage equal to approximately 1,000 gigabytes (GB). In Lorex systems, storage capacity is often measured in terabytes to indicate how much video footage can be recorded and stored. Use our hard drive calculator to estimate your recording time.
True WDR
A camera feature that balances very bright and very dark areas within the same scene to produce a clearer, more evenly exposed image. True WDR uses multiple exposures that are combined into a single frame, helping reveal details that might otherwise be lost in shadows or bright highlights.
U
UL Certified
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification indicates that a Lorex product has been tested by a third-party safety organization and meets established safety standards. This helps ensure the product is safe and reliable for use in residential and commercial environments.
Unauthorized Parking Detection
Detects when a vehicle parks or remains in a restricted or designated area where parking is not allowed. This feature helps enforce parking rules and can trigger alerts when violations occur.
V
Vandal Proof (IK10)
Vandal-resistant cameras with an IK10 rating are designed to withstand strong physical impacts and tampering. In Lorex systems, these cameras are built with durable housings to help protect against damage in high-risk or accessible areas.
Varifocal Lens
A varifocal lens in Lorex cameras allows you to adjust the zoom and field of view to customize how much area is captured. This flexibility lets you fine-tune the camera for wider coverage or more focused detail, depending on your needs.
VGA
VGA is a video connection type used on some Lorex recorders to connect to monitors or displays. It is an older standard, with HDMI now being more commonly used for video output.
Video Loss
Indicates that the system has lost the video signal from a connected camera. This alert helps notify users of potential issues such as camera disconnection, cable problems, or device failure.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN is a secure connection that allows you to access your Lorex system remotely over the internet. It is typically used in advanced setups to enhance privacy and protect data during remote access.
W
White Light
A built-in deterrent light that illuminates the area to discourage unwanted activity and improve visibility at night. It can be set to stay on continuously, follow a schedule, or activate when motion is detected.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a wireless network that allows devices to connect to the internet without cables. In Lorex systems, it is used to connect wireless cameras and devices during setup and operation.
Wireless Communication
Wireless communication in Lorex systems allows cameras to transmit video and data to a recorder or mobile device without the need for physical cables. This enables flexible installation for devices such as Wi-Fi cameras, video doorbells, and wire-free security systems.
Wireless (Wi-Fi) Camera
A wireless (Wi-Fi) camera connects to your network without a video cable, transmitting footage over Wi-Fi. These cameras still require a power source, typically through a wired electrical connection. They offer flexible installation and support features like remote viewing, smart motion alerts, and local or cloud recording.
Wrong-Way Detection
Detects when a vehicle moves in the wrong direction within a designated area, such as a one-way lane or entrance/exit point. This feature helps identify unsafe or unauthorized vehicle movement.