In today’s technologically advance world, it is helpful to understand the many different types of burglar alarm systems when searching for home security. Society has disintegrated dramatically and crime is rampant, even in the best neighborhoods, which is what has spurred the dramatic increase in the number of homes installing some sort of security system.

Three Main Types

Home security has become big business, which makes it all the more difficult to determine what type of system is best for the home. There are basically three main types of security systems available for installation: wireless, hard-wired and self-contained. Each of these systems is explained below. This information should help the homeowner decide which system is best for their home.

Wireless Burglar Alarm Systems

Wireless burglar alarm systems have become the preferred systems for home security today. These systems are comprised of various parts that work together to provide the security the homeowner needs. Today’s wireless system is technologically advanced and doesn’t suffer from the interference of radio waves like older wireless systems.

The typical wireless system is made up of parts that a DIYer can install with basic skills. The common elements of a wireless burglar alarm system include:

• Control Panel: this is the heart of the alarm system where all of the programming of the system is completed.
• Contacts and Transmitters: These are placed on the doors and windows and are used to send a signal to the control panel when movement is detected.
• Motion Detectors: These are strategically placed throughout the residence, both indoors and out, to detect motion when the alarm is set to on. Once motion is detected a signal is sent to the control panel which then sends the alarm.

Wireless burglar alarm systems can be controlled by computers and smart phones making it easy to set the alarm from away from home or even disarm it for unexpected visitors.

Wireless alarm systems have advantages and disadvantages. They are easily expandable by simply adding more motion detectors. In addition to this, wireless systems can be removed and taken to a new home should relocation occur. However, because they are battery operated, the batteries must be checked on a regular basis in order to keep the system functioning properly. Additionally, wireless systems can be more expensive than hard-wired systems although as technology continues to improve the cost is coming down.

Hard-Wired Burglar Alarm Systems

Hard-wired burglar alarm systems are the older, more traditional type of burglar alarm system that is installed for home security. A hard-wired system is made up of the control panel which is wired to the home’s electrical system, a siren or loud alarm that is set off by any of the detection devices that are strategically placed throughout the home.

A hard-wired burglar alarm system is designed and installed using heavy duty cable that is installed to provide the power to the system. Additionally, the cabling that is installed helps to deter intruders because it is designed to set off an alarm should the cable pick up the signals from the sensors that indicate the presence of an intruder.

Like the wireless system, the hard-wired system has both advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage is that the system is permanent and therefore considered more reliable. However, these systems typically have to be professionally installed which makes them more expensive and they can’t be moved with the homeowner, should the homeowner decide to relocate. Additionally, if more coverage is desired, the professional who installed the system will have to come back and add to it.

Self Contained Burglar Alarms

These are portable devices that operate on the basis of motion detection. They are very limited in functions and have very few features. However, they are the ideal choice when a portable burglar alarm is needed, such as when travelling and staying in hotels or hostels.

Camera Security Systems

In addition to the three security burglar alarms, there are security cameras that have become a very popular add-on to security systems. These cameras capture every movement in and around the home. The burglar alarm system works in conjunction with the camera to start the recording process whenever there is movement detected. These cameras provide added security for the homeowner.

If the burglar alarm doesn’t deter the intruder, the homeowner can rely on the camera to provide details of the intrusion and hopefully help capture the intruder. Security camera systems in home provide additionally peace of mind by videoing babysitters or any other action that the owner wants to see over a given time frame.

Understanding the many types of home security options and burglar alarm systems that are available will help the homeowner make a decision on which system best suits their needs. It is important

Every business reaches the point that they need to consider a security system and most businesses ultimately go with a business security camera system. However, before making the ultimate decision to install the security camera system there are many different factors that need to be considered. This overview of business security camera systems should help business owners determine if they are ready to install this type of security system.

Cost

Cost is a natural concern for any business and should be taken into consideration. The old saying that ‘you get what you pay for’ is especially true when it comes to business security systems. The average fixed indoor camera can cost anywhere between $60 all the up to close to $200, with outdoor versions starting at about $100 and going to around $300.

The key factor to understand with the cost of cameras is that these are simply the cameras and they are fixed cameras, not PTZ cameras that capture all movement by panning, tilting, and zooming. The cost of PTZ cameras is much higher, but worth the added cost.

Ultimately, cheap cameras have little or no tech support and no installation. It is much smarter to find a company that installs and supports business security systems and work with them to get the right system installed.

Fixed Cameras or Pan Tilt Zoom Cameras

As mentioned previously, PTZ cameras are much more expensive and so the business owner may question whether or not they need these more expensive cameras. The PTZ camera has motion which can be controlled from remote locations to capture more video data. However, part of the cost increase is due to the additional wiring that these cameras require.

PTZ cameras can be programmed to move to certain locations on a regular basis and then manually adjusted if needed. This allows the business to continually be monitored in a sweeping fashion with the PTZ cameras. The downside to these cameras is that they are complicated to program and often wind up in a fixed position, at which point the standard fixed camera, which is much less expensive, would have been a better choice.

Are Infrared Cameras Necessary?

This is something that only the business owner can answer. If the purpose of the camera is to catch intruders after business hours, then the answer would be yes, unless there are always lights on inside the business. However, if the purpose of the cameras is to keep a keen eye on employees and their behavior, infrared is not necessary.

Businesses that are installing outdoor security cameras should consider infrared. These cameras provide their own light source when there isn’t enough light to get a clear picture. The downside to an infrared camera is that the LED light on it alerts anyone nearby that there is a camera present. However, for capturing images in the dark, the infrared is the only way to go.

Lens Size and Camera Sight

The next important factor when considering a business security camera system is how wide the area is that the camera is able to see. This size of the lens determines the size of area that the camera is able to capture. A large lens will be able to capture a large area and greater distance than a small lens. For example, a 50mm camera lens can capture images up to 75’ from the camera; on the other hand, a 3.6 mm lens can only capture imagers about 12’ feet away.

Multiple Cameras

Many business owners think they only need one security camera, the one that faces the entrance and for some people that might be enough; however, most businesses need multiple cameras and different types of cameras for different locations. Business security specialists can create a custom security plan and point out the areas that are vulnerable and should have cameras. However, if the cameras are being used simply for employees then the cameras need to be installed where employees are or go, which means multiple cameras throughout the building.

Battery Backup or Straight Electrical

Once a business understands the camera, lens and costs, the last thing that is important is the power supply. The system will no doubt be powered by electricity; however, just as the computer network in a business must have a battery backup, the camera security must have a battery backup. When the power goes out, the business needs to be protected and a batter backup provides that security. The backup should have at least a two or three hour window if not more. The battery backup needs to be powering not only the camera system but also the DVR or other recording device as well as all cameras on the system.

Business security camera systems are an important part of any business and should be seriously considered by every business owner. Research and the help of a security company can provide the business with the exact system they need.

There are several types of security cameras available when shopping for home or business security systems. Understanding the CCD security camera is the first step in deciding on the type of camera to use in the system set up. The following information will help explain the CCD camera and how important it is in the camera security system.

Digital Security

Before learning about the CCD camera, it is important to have an overview of how digital video and camera surveillance security works. These systems can be found in homes and businesses and provide security by recording activity during the day or when the business is closed.

Typical video security systems are made up of three main parts: the monitors, the video recorder, and the camera. The camera is a vital part of the system as its job is to catch any images that are made by light reflections. These reflections are then converted to an image that is electronic and then stored on the DVR and possibly viewed remotely if desired.

There are other components to the system that make it operate such as sensors and control panels; however the main components are the camera as and recording device.

The Camera

The camera is the integral part of the system that works using multiple components such as the lenses and the integrated circuit chips. The field of view is the area that the camera is able to pick up with its lens. This field of view is what will be recorded and is considered the video image.

The lens size determines the field of view that will be on the video image. Larger lenses provide a much larger field of view. The standard lens on a digital camera has one field of view due to having a single focal length. On the other hand, varifocal lenses are able to be manipulated to alter their focal length and thus a larger field of view.

The CCD security camera is the sensor chip of the security system. The CCD (charged couple device) sends out tiny electrical impulses when focused light reaches it through the camera. CCD cameras can have multiple CCD chips and multiple filters.

These electrical pulses are then calculated and read by the IC chip (analog to digital processor). The image from the camera is now a digital image and will continue to be processes by the camera. This further processing is the automatic adjustments that the camera makes to the brightness, color, and other attributes that create an overall digital image of high quality.

After the CCD security camera creates the video image, the data is directed to the DVR where it is stored for archival and viewing purposes. The data that is sent to the DVR may be digital or binary data; however it will be transformed to a digital video file that can be watched on the recorder or a computer.

CCD security cameras are exceptional security cameras that have the ability to use infrared light to create video. This feature of the camera makes it more versatile by allowing to be used in many more locations and even in the darkest of areas. CCD infrared works by having many IR LEDs or infrared producing light emitting diodes located around the lends in a circular manner that are basically providing massive amounts of light to the camera. This light is not visible to people and so the camera is not noticed.

Choosing a Camera

The average homeowner who is looking for a security system may want to research the many different options that are available. The CCD security camera is just one of the many cameras that are available. Professional security companies can offer the best advice on what type of camera and system is best for the proposed area.

CCD security cameras are an excellent choice due to their versatility and infrared capabilities. This allows the homeowner to place them in dark areas of their yard or home and feel secure knowing that the camera will pick up any movement despite how dark it is in the area.

Once the type of camera has been determined, it is simply a matter of finding the best supplier and the best price. The Internet has many reputable security system suppliers. Prices can be compared using different shopping tools online. However, before a purchase is made, the company should be checked out to make sure there are return options, warranties and that the company has a good reputation.

CCD security cameras should be considered one of the top choices in security cameras when a new security system is being installed. Security systems are ideal deterrents and provide security options for homes and businesses that want to be able to record any events that occur.

Years ago it was not uncommon for people to leave their doors unlocked at night and even when they weren’t at home. Crime was simply not as rampant and neighbors looked after each other. Today, not only are doors locked, but it is highly likely that the home is protected by some type of home security system. The crime rate explosion has caused even the average middle-income family to search for affordable home security in order to protect their belongings and their very lives. Finding affordable home security is not impossible; it simply takes some time and research.

Different Types of Security Systems

The most popular home security system is the security camera or CCTV (closed-circuit television). These often have many more functions than simply intruder alert. Some come with smoke and fire alerts as well. This type of security system offers the most security and is not as expensive as most people think. There are self-installed systems that the homeowner can install and there are companies that install systems and monitor them around the clock. The difference is the level of monitoring and the ultimate choice is a personal one that the homeowner must make.

Alarms on doors and windows are also a type of security system; however, some intruders will simply move faster and continue robbing the home of valuable goods. They know they have a period of time to get in and out before the police arrive. While this type of security system is a good deterrent, it is not as good as a security camera.

Affordability

Camera security systems are nowhere near as expensive today as they once were and there are many options for purchasing and installing them. The self-installed system is not hard to install and works in conjunction with a computer and recorder. These systems can be purchased on the Internet for a fairly reasonable price. If the homeowner has some DIY skills and some computer skills, the system can be up and running in an afternoon without breaking the bank. However, these systems are not typically tied into law enforcement and fire protection agencies; they simply monitor and record the activities in the rooms where cameras are installed.

Security companies offer excellent package deals that include monitoring of the home for fire and smoke, window and door alarms as well as cameras if desired. The initial cost of these packages varies but it is often possible to find deals where the installation fee is waived if a contract is signed for a set time period. These systems offer the most security and are not very expensive on a monthly basis. The key to these systems is choosing a reputable company with a solid history of installation and monitoring services.

Remember that these people will be coming to the house to install the system and will have the codes and other information about the house and system. This is why it is vital to choose a reputable company.

Advice on Security for the Home

There are many excellent pieces of advice that will help keep a home more secure and not cost more than the home. Some of these are explained here to get the homeowner started on the road to being more safe and secure.

• If a security system is installed, make sure everyone in the family knows how to operate it. This will cut down on the number of false alarms.
• Display the stickers and yard signs that the security company provides in prominent places. Intruders do not like homes that have security cameras. Some homes display these even if they do not have the actual equipment, intruders don’t know that and are still apt to move on to the next house.
• Add extra lighting to areas of the yard that are extremely dark at night. Motion detecting lights are an excellent choice and very inexpensive. They sudden light is also a great deterrent for would-be intruders.
• Join the neighborhood watch or start one if there isn’t one. This is simply neighbors looking out for each other when one isn’t at home. Neighborhood watches don’t cost anything other than time and the local police typically support these groups with extra patrols.
• Leave lights on when not at home. This might not seem like much of a deterrent, but it does give pause to the intruder who isn’t sure if someone is home or not. Consider investing in a timer to turn lights off and on at preset times if the home is going to be vacant for a few days.

There are undoubtedly many more ways to make a home more secure, such as bars on the windows; however, the point here is that there are many affordable ways to secure the home and sleep better at night knowing the family is safe and sound in their own bed.

Technology has made it possible for residential applications of camera security. What was once considered only for the wealthy homeowner or commercial businesses can now be found in the average middle class. Camera security systems come in a variety of configurations such as 4, 8 or 16 camera systems. Before purchasing any of these systems, it is a good idea to research them and understand what each one has to offer and then determine which one is right for the home where it is being installed.

There are many more aspects of a camera security system that must be compared than just the number of cameras. Many factors depend on the home and the lighting conditions, power options that are available, whether or not color is desired and much more. The following information is designed to help homeowners and even businesses understand the different options that are available and make the best decision for their needs.

Number of Cameras

Before looking into other options of camera security system, the main difference between the 4, 8 and 16 camera security systems should be examined. The most obvious difference in the three systems is the number of cameras used in the setup. Obviously, more cameras mean more coverage area. These various setups allow homes of all sizes to benefit from camera systems or for only certain areas to be monitored if a small system is selected for a larger home.

Camera Styles

Once a determination has been made on how many cameras are going to make up the system, the actual style of the cameras must be selected. Many camera security systems come with only one type of camera, while others allow for customization to match the purchaser’s needs. There are many different types to choose from as shown below:

• Tube Camera: This camera is fast becoming the camera of choice for homeowners due to being an unobtrusive choice, which is important to the overall aesthetics of the home. The tube camera is basically a cylinder shaped camera that is mounted and has a rotating ball. This rotating ball allows the camera to rotate in any direction and thus capture more data.
• Box Camera: This camera has been the standard home security camera for many years. It is, as the name implies, box shaped and comes in many different sizes. Like most other security cameras, there are wired and wireless versions as well as many different mounting options and lenses that are available.
• Spy Cams: Many people call these security cameras “nanny cams” as they are designed to be hidden from view in order to get a view of what is happening in the room in which it is installed without the occupants of the room knowing they are being watched. Most spy cams are not part of the overall camera security system. These are typically stand alone cameras that can be mounted in toys, smoke detectors, picture frames and other places that are part of the room and not be detected as a camera.
• Dome cameras: These cameras are similar to the dome cameras that are seen in commercial businesses, particularly retail stores. The dome of the camera is flush with the ceiling and acts as the outer covering that protects the camera. The camera that is inside the dome has unlimited directional movement and can be programmed to view the entire room at intervals or manually controlled by the owner. These are the most expensive of the camera options.

Homeowners that are trying to decide on the type of camera to install need to take into account how many cameras their system will have when installed. A 16 camera system could be customized to have one or more cameras while a 4 camera system may not be customizable.

Resolution

The resolution of the camera is an important factor since the image that is picked up by the camera needs to be clear enough to pick out all the details. Higher resolution cameras will obviously be more expensive; however, if the images are going to be viewed on digital recorders, a higher resolution should be considered necessary.
Power

The power supply to the cameras is obviously going to be an issue that has to be addressed, particularly in 8 and 16 camera systems. If the power supply to the cameras is going over great distance, usually more than 150’, a 24-VAC system is the preferred power source. Check with the supplier of the camera security system and make sure the power availability meets the required power needs of the system.

Comparing 4, 8, and 16 camera security systems is more than simply comparing the number of cameras that each system contains. It is important to understand the different types of cameras as well as the need for a high resolution lens to capture all movement in the area being secured.

Preparing for security in a business setting takes more work and is more complex than installing one in a residential home. The business owner needs to look at multiple systems and understand each one as well as the company that is going to install the system.

Commercial security camera systems provide the security and monitoring that a business needs, but only if it is a well-thought-out system installed by experts who offer ongoing support. There are other things that should be considered and the information provided here should get the business owner started on the path to security.

Things to Consider

One of the first things that need to be determined is what type of security camera system is going to be used. There are many available and each one should be considered and weighed for what it can offer the business. Typical options include motion sensors; still frame recording, CCTV systems and more. Each one should be thoroughly considered and then priced to determine if it fits in the budget. If the price is too much, there’s no need to waste time researching any further.

What the security is going to protect should also be considered. For instance, an office that doesn’t handle any money and has only a few employees might not need the same robust monitoring that a retail store would need. This is also true of the area where the business is located. If the business is in a low crime area there is less need for high security than one that is located in a high crime area.

These considerations will help bring the owner to an idea of what is needed for the business. It may turn out that the business needs to have more than camera security and possibly needs a full-time security guard. On the other hand, a CCTV system may provide the security that is needed as well as the ability to monitor the business remotely and in real time.

Security Companies

Once the decision has been made on the type of system and a budget worked out, the owner should start searching for a security system provider. More than one company should be researched in order to get a vibe about what to expect when dealing with these companies. Some key things to look for in a security company are:

• Technology: Security companies should constantly be updating their technology and passing that technology on to its customers.
• Products and availability of products: The company should offer the latest products and have them readily available for installation. It is also good if they offer more than one brand name.
• Customer Service: Security companies must have excellent customer service and be available when necessary should the system need repair or maintenance.
• System Monitoring: Many security companies offer monitoring of their installed systems in order to provide added assurance to the business owner that the system is operating properly.
• Repair and Maintenance: The security system that is selected should offer a maintenance plan and have technicians that can make repairs to the system when needed.
• Education: The security company should offer education on how to use the security system. If this is not offered, the owner should probably not utilize their services. The owner has to know how to use the system thoroughly.

In addition to looking at these components of the security company, good judgment about the vibe that comes from the company will help play a role in making a final decision. If the company answers questions easily and offers information freely, it is a fair assumption that they will be easy to work with during the process of installation.

Installation

Choosing the system and finding the best company to install it takes time and effort; however, that is just the beginning. When the system is being installed it is important for the business owner or assigned member of the management team, to be on site for the install. This is the best way to understand how the security system works and to ensure that all of the components are placed where they are supposed to go.

The installation period is a good time to ask questions about how to use the system. The install technician can demonstrate the various components of the system and explain how to determine if the system is functioning properly. The installation technician should also explain who to contact if the system malfunctions or needs repairs.

Commercial security camera systems are designed to meet the complex needs that businesses have that are very different from residential needs. This makes it important for businesses to carefully research their options and make good decisions about the system they install in their business. The future of their business is in their hands when it comes to the security they choose.

In today’s high crime society, many homeowners are turning to home security camera systems to protect their home. However, choosing the best home security system can be a confusing task that leaves the homeowner wondering if they made the best choice. There are many different factors involved in choosing the best home security system and what is best for one person might not be best for another person. The information included herein is designed to help every homeowner make the right decision for their security needs.

First Things First

The first thing that needs to be determined is whether or not the home security camera system is going to be installed and monitored by a security company or if the homeowner is going to purchase and install the system. Self-installed systems are not difficult to install; however, they do not typically offer the same monitoring as those installed by security companies.

This decision is one that is personal to each homeowner and may depend on the homeowner’s budget. Monitoring companies often offer installation specials but they also have a monthly fee for monitoring the home. On the other hand, self-installed systems only have a one-time cost involved and that is the cost of the system.
Once the decision has been made on the type of system that will be installed, there are other factors that will help choose the best system for the home and homeowner.

Camera Placement

An important factor in determining the best home security system is where the cameras are going to be installed. This will help determine the types of cameras needed as well as how many cameras are going to be needed. Some of the things to consider include:

• Outside camera areas such as doorways and dark corners of the yard.
• Inside cameras in rooms where doorways come into the home and possibly in rooms that contain valuables, such as electronics or jewelry.
• Hidden cameras for monitoring nurseries and other areas of the home where babysitters and nannies may spend time.

These placement areas are simply suggestions. Some homeowners want a camera in every room of their home and choose cameras that can monitor the entire room. The choice is one of personal taste but will help determine the best camera selection for the security system.

Camera Attributes

Once the number and type of cameras have been determined, it is important to determine how clear the images need to be when viewed on the computer or digital recorder. This will help choose the best camera resolution and frame rate. Many homeowners turn to specialists for help with this part of the selection process, unless they happen to be camera gurus. Image quality is vital if the camera captures an intruder in the process and the only identifying clues are on the camera.

The best home security camera systems function with what is known as full motion capture capability. This allows the camera to record the complete motions of the room’s occupants without having a slow and choppy appearance. As previously stated, it is important to be able to identify people and actions on the images that are recorded by the camera.

Wired vs. Wireless

This is another area that is going to be a personal decision. Many of the better home security camera systems on the market today are wireless. This cuts down on the installation time and cost. Wireless systems allow the cameras to be installed in many more places than would be possible with a wired system.

This is not to say that there are wired systems that are excellent. Wired systems have been around for many more years than wireless systems and are not dependent on signals making it from one place to another, they are securely wired and function regardless of interference from other devices.

Power Supply

Finally, the best home security system will have a backup power supply. All security systems must have power and typically that power is AC and wired into the home; however, in the event of a power outage, the family and home still need to be protected, which is why a backup power supply should be considered the sign of an excellent system.

Backup power supplies are typically in the form of a batter supply that only comes on when the system detects a lack of AC power. This batter should be checked on an annual basis to ensure it is charged and working should it be needed.

Choosing the best home security camera system is a process that requires researching the many different options available and comparing those options to the needs that have been determined by the homeowner. Once these two factors have been found to be in alignment, the homeowner will know that they have selected the system that is best for their needs.

There are many different types of security camera systems on the market today due to the increased number of people installing them in their residences. Businesses are not the only place that needs to be safe and secure and residential applications of security systems shows this to be true. The CCTV security camera system is one of the most popular types of systems installed.

CCTV security camera systems allow the homeowner to watch their home from practically anywhere without having to go room to room and play back a recorded video. CCTV is closed circuit television that gets its live feed from cameras placed throughout the protected area.

CCTV systems were typically only found in big businesses such as banks and airports; however, they are becoming commonplace in homes as a means of security and monitoring the home.

The CCTV

Installing a CCTV security systems are installed on a private network within the home or business they are protecting. They can be used for monitoring activity or recording video surveillance. Technology today has made it possible to install them wirelessly and watch them remotely. These systems are excellent for many different purposes in addition to security.

Fighting Crime with CCTV

CCTV security systems have played a large role in fighting crime. The presence of these systems in homes and businesses provides security guards and investigators the tools they need to find out who committed the crime and acts as a witness to the crime that cannot be refuted. This is one of the main reasons that businesses install CCTV systems and what has spurred homeowners to do the same thing.

Home CCTV Cameras

Homeowners might think that a CCTV system is complicated and hard to install. However, the exact opposite is true. The images produced by the cameras are as high in resolution as the owner chooses based on the system purchased, in fact, some systems are as high in resolution as 1600 x 1200 pixels. The system can be set up to record only when motion is detected, on a timed basis or continually, depending on the needs of the home.

There are many added features that can be installed with a CCTV system that can enhance the security features such as infrared for nighttime monitoring. Other features that can be added include tilting and zooming cameras as well as cameras that work in low light areas without infrared.

Monitored Area

The amount of coverage the CCTV security system provides is a decision that must be made by the homeowner. There are security systems that can cover up to 16 rooms in the home. The homeowner can monitor their entire home, their garage, yard and any other area they desire, simply by adding more cameras to the set up. The monitored area can be viewed in real-time or later on the stored video the system records and archives.

Cost

The cost of the CCTV security system varies greatly and depends on many factors. Some of the factors that affect pricing include:

• Coverage: The number of rooms being monitored will play a large role in the cost of the system. This is due to the number of cameras that will be needed.
• Added Features: Features such as tilt and zoom, infrared and low light will add to the cost of the system.
• Resolution: Higher resolution creates a clearer image but also increases the price.
• Color: Color systems are pricier than black and white.
• Display: This is the monitor which can be as large or small as desired. There are flat panels and traditional monitors that have multiple screen views.
• Camera type: This will also greatly affect the price. There are many different ones to choose from and that choice will be a large factor in the price.
• Audio: There are CCTV systems that have audio.

Planning out the system from the cabling needed all the way through to power usage will help provide a complete picture of the price. This will also help when getting quotes so that all of the quotes will be based on the same system.

The Law

Before installing a video surveillance system it is important to find out if there are any laws concerning the system. There may be privacy laws that have to be followed when installing the system in a private home. The video system is a powerful tool for securing the home; however, there could be concerns about visitors to the home being videoed without their knowledge. Be sure to consult an attorney and make sure all legal practices are followed.

CCTV security camera systems provide security and safety to homes and businesses. They allow for recording and live monitoring from remote locations and can be an excellent deterrent to criminals. Live monitoring makes it possible to keep a watchful eye on the babysitter and kids when away from home. Ultimately, these are one of the top security systems for home and business use.

Homeowners and business owners who have decided to take plunge and purchase a camera surveillance system should follow the advice and lessons learned from others who have already been through the process. The tips and advice on camera surveillance systems that these people have to offer can save the installer the headaches that they have already experienced. Some of those tips are offered here to help get the process of choosing and installing a camera surveillance system underway.

What is the Security System For?

This should be one of the first questions asked. The way the system is going to be utilized will play a large role in the type of system installed as well as how the system is configured. There are many different reasons for installing a security system, such as:

• Security of the home or business; 
• Observation of employees or household staff; 
• Intruder prevention and detection; 
• Fire and smoke monitoring 

These are some of the more common reasons for installing a security system with camera surveillance. Homeowners like the peace of mind a camera system gives them when they are not home but want to be able to monitor their home and children. Businesses use the camera monitoring system to observe employees and ultimately provide a better customer experience through training and reformatting business practices based on what they observe. Deciding exactly what the purpose of the system is will help choose the right system and features for that system.

Computer Based or Digital Recorder

This is another decision that must be made before purchasing the system. If the system is simply going to be recorded to a DVR, there aren’t as many other factors to consider. On the other hand, if the system is computer based, the OS will have to be taken into account as well as how much memory the computer will need along with the hard drive size.

Linux and Windows are the two most common operating systems found in camera surveillance systems. Linux based systems are typically more expensive and more difficult to have repaired than Windows systems and so are the more common choice if a computer based system is chosen. Night Recording If the system owner anticipates needing the ability to record in dark areas, cameras must be equipped with infrared in order to capture movement in the dark.

Camera Type

It is best to determine what type camera is needed before the installation date or there could be problems and the cameras have to be replaced. Typical cameras include the PTZ or pan/tilt/zoom camera which allows for rotation of the camera through programming, while a stationary camera only captures what is in its lens view. The price difference between the two camera types is vast and thus the decision should be made prior to purchasing cameras.

Remote Access

If remote access is desired, the decision to go computer based will have already been made. Remote access of surveillance systems allows parents to check on the babysitter from a remote location and businesses to activate their PTZ cameras as needed, all without ever visiting the location of the system.

Is Cable Type Important

This question will only be important if the system owner is doing the installation. If a professional surveillance company is installing the system this won’t be a consideration; however, if the installation is being done by the owner of the system, CAT 5 is the typical cabling installed for IP cameras and analog cameras will do better with RG 59.

Power Supply

The last consideration should be the power supply. Again, this should be determined prior to making the final purchase of equipment. The power supply is an important component both in the continual power supply and in the backup power supply component. Distance will play a large role in the power supply; if the power is pulled over a long distance, it will lose voltage. The best bet for the power supply is to have a professional installer do the wiring for the power.

Regardless of who handles the power supply installation, there must be plans for a backup power supply. This is important in the event of a power outage. Many criminal activities take place during power outages and having the security cameras properly functioning during this outage will help deter criminal activity.

There are many more aspects of installing a security system with surveillance cameras that must be considered. The advice here is simply tips based on the experiences of other homeowners and business owners that have installed these systems. The key, as can be seen by the majority of the tips, is in the planning process of the system. Every aspect must be considered before any steps are taken to put the plan into action, doing this will help prevent any mistakes that have to be changed in order to reach the desired goal.

Cars are expensive investments that need security devices just as much as homes do in order to protect them from theft and damage. Car security cameras are bringing a new way to add security and create a piece of mind for the owner. Car security cameras are multifunctional devices that not only provide security but also protect the driver and its occupants.

Benefits of Car Security Cameras

The idea of a security camera in a car is relatively new and has many people wondering if they should invest in one for their car. Many new cars are equipped with security cameras straight from the factory which saves the cost of after-market installation. Car shoppers that understand the benefits that car security cameras offer will appreciate this feature. Some of the benefits of car security cameras include:

• Deter theft. Thieves do not want to be on camera and thus get caught in the act. The presence of a camera is usually enough to prevent them from stealing the car.
• Catch vandals. Car vandalism is expensive and most people never catch the vandals; however, when a camera is installed in a car, the vandals will be on film and easily apprehended.
• Insurance savings. Many automobile insurance companies offer discounts for added security features such as car cameras.
• Added safety. Many car cameras have a feature that allows the driver to see more clearly behind the car and avoid accidents.
• Accident and incident recording. This is an added bonus that acts much like the black box in airplanes. Some car security cameras are activated by an internal sensor if there is an increase in force. This recording captures the entire episode making it easier for insurance companies and highway patrol to determine what happened.
• Driver training. Car cameras can provide useful information to new drivers who watch their driving and learn from their mistakes.

There are undoubtedly many other benefits that owners of these cameras would add to the list. Every person will find that the camera aids them in many ways.

Police Use

The most common use of the car camera for many years was in police and highway patrol work. These cameras allowed the office to record every minute of a routine stop. This recording could then be used as an impartial witness to the events that occur, regardless of who commits any of the actions. These cameras have helped prove the office right in court and even helped catch the occasional rogue officer who loses their temper.

Accident Reconstruction

Car accidents are often difficult to reconstruct which makes it difficult to determine the cause of the accident and who was at fault. However, as previously outlined in the benefits of car cameras, the camera will record the accident in its entirety once the sensors are triggered. This can prove to be very beneficial, particularly when the driver is not accepting responsibility or leaves the scene of the accident.

Commercial Drivers

Many companies that have vehicles on the road install car cameras in order to monitor the vehicle and driver while on the road. This allows them to gauge how their drivers are operating the vehicles and make changes as necessary.

Types of Car Security Cameras

There are many different types of car security cameras that can be selected when having one installed after-market. Some of the camera types include:

• Self Recorder: These cameras have a built-in laser indicator that is used to point to the direction that is going to be recorded. These typically have SD cards where the recording is stored. These are ideal for recording road conditions, weather and traffic flow.
• Micro Eyes DVR Ballcam: This tiny camera is located inside of a ball shaped housing and is motion activated. The camera records the video on DVR.
• Black Box Camera: This camera is the most up-to-date technology on the market. Technologically advanced, this camera records dual view video, essentially, the interior of the car and the roadway at the same time. The digital recorder also captures and retains GPS information, audio, speed and g-force changes. The camera can be set to record continuously or only when triggered by a change in g-force is detected.

Mounting Options

There are two typical mounting options, dash mounted and windshield mounted. Windshield mounting allows for a higher view of the roadway. Windshield mounting allows for a very clear view of the road. Dash mounted cameras are ideal for people that need a lower view point and is easily tilted to any viewpoint desired.

Car security cameras are new to many people and yet they are quickly becoming a security feature that is helping protect both cars and the people in them. Police and insurance agents utilize the information these cameras provide to offer more and better services to the public.