Display information from the cameras is transmitted through the I/O of the PCB, typically through a display or handheld monitor. Since there are no analog controls, recording parameters are also controlled through this interface.
The camera lenses have the greatest impact on the quality of image capture. Because of the small size of PCB cameras, simple pinhole lenses are used. PCB cameras also use exclusive types of lenses.
The size of the camera lens determines the focus angle of the image sensor. Smaller sizes provide a wider angle. Common sizes include: 2.1 mm, 150° FOV; 2.8 mm, 115° FOV; 3.6 mm, 92° FOV; 6 mm, 53° FOV; 16 mm, 20° FOV.
The resolution of board cameras is usually quite low compared to large cameras. A horizontal resolution of 700 TVL is considered exceptional, while larger camera models have resolutions in the 380-480 TVL range.
The light sensitivity of cameras is measured in lux. Black and white cameras are much more sensitive than their color counterparts, and some monochrome cameras are capable of recording in light conditions as low as 0.0003 lux, which is useful for video surveillance systems. Color cameras require more illumination to record a quality image. The minimum illumination level for high-end color cameras is 3 lux.
Most cameras provide video signal transmission through a 75 ohm composite output, but there are other options. Thanks to the built-in power supply, the cameras provide wireless signal transmission. Firewire and USB interfaces are often used to connect memory to the board.