Simulated security cameras, otherwise known as “dummy cameras,” are created to look like real security cameras. Buyers should beware, however, for a number of reasons. Careful consideration should be used when deciding if a simulated camera is right for your home or business.
Why Choose a Simulated Security Camera?
Most businesses and homeowners that buy a simulated camera do so to keep cost low while still deterring vandals, shoplifters and burglars. Real security cameras, even on the low-end, cost around $100. Simulated cameras can be found for as low as $15-$50, depending on the quality.
If you purchase the right simulated security camera, you can usually trick people into at least thinking twice about shoplifting, breaking in or vandalizing your home or business. You should be aware, however, that there are some notable disadvantages to simulated security cameras.
Disadvantages to Simulated Security Cameras
Not all dummy cameras are created equally. Some are constructed from very cheap materials and, unless placed at a distance, people can usually tell that the camera is a fake. Professional criminals are likely to tell the difference between even a top-quality dummy camera and the real thing. For this reason, a dummy camera should never be used in place of a real camera if the risk is extremely high for robbers or burglars.
Having the Best of Both Worlds
Because dummy cameras and often detectable, some businesses use both dummy cameras and real surveillance cameras. The real cameras are placed in high risk areas and in areas that the camera can be seen in detail. The dummy cameras are placed in areas that they can only be seen at a distance and that the risk is low. This cuts the cost of surveillance in half. It also convinces potential burglars, thieves or vandals that all of the cameras are real.
When is a Simulated Camera Sufficient?
Simulated cameras, if selected carefully, can be perfect for businesses that simply want to discourage shoplifting and have little to no risk of burglary. They can also be used outside of homes to trick burglars into thinking that a camera is present. In a residential setting, fewer burglars are willing to get close enough to determine if a camera is real or not. Homeowners may also find a simulated camera the best and most affordable option for vandalism protection. Most vandals are teenagers or children. Their lack of knowledge and experience with professional cameras can work to the homeowner’s advantage.
When are Simulated Cameras an Unsafe Option?
Simulated cameras should not be used in high danger areas where professional crimes may take place. Convenience stores in high crime neighborhoods, homes in high crime neighborhoods and larger chain stores should avoid using dummy cameras unless they are mixed and matched with real surveillance cameras. While a dummy camera can work as a deterrent, it does not offer the same level of protection that a real surveillance camera provides.
Selecting a Quality Simulated Camera
If a simulated camera is a sufficient option for you, it is important that you take the time to find one that is manufactured with quality in mind. Purchasing cheaply made dummy cameras will not prevent crimes because most people, even young people, can tell the difference.
Choose a simulated camera that looks real. You can often find simulated cameras that are manufactured by using non-working surveillance cameras. On the exterior, these simulated cameras look just like the real thing. Some even have motion sensors placed inside to give them a real effect and most have a blinking light to give the impression that the camera is recording.
High quality simulated cameras generally cost more than cheaply made simulated cameras but the cost difference is very minimal. If you are diligent about your search, you can find a top-quality simulated camera for around $30-$40. This is still a fraction of what you would pay for a real surveillance camera.
When shopping for your dummy camera, you should also be mindful about the usage limitations. Like all surveillance cameras, not all dummy cameras can be placed outdoors. Exposure to the elements can cause the camera to malfunction and, while the cost of a dummy camera is much less than a real camera, a malfunctioning dummy camera is still a financial loss.
Where to Find Simulated Cameras
Simulated cameras can be found in electronics stores and online. Most buyers opt for an online purchase because there is usually a wider range of selection. There is, however, a disadvantage to purchasing your simulated camera online.
When purchasing online, you don’t have the ability to view the actual camera. You are unable to determine how real it looks or the quality that has been put into its construction. If you are not buying from a reputable distributor, you could end up buying a low-quality dummy camera. To avoid this common problem, purchase your dummy camera from only reputable distributors.