Security Cameras and Video Surveillance

Security Cameras & Video Surveillance

Video and camera surveillance are an important component of any effective security system. You will gain peace-of-mind when you are able to view and record what is happening at your home or business, remotely or onsite. The ability to monitor your home or business from any location puts control back in your hands. You will be able to make real-time decisions based on your surveillance footage to minimize your risk and ensure your family, business, or home are safe.

With cheaper and more easily accessible storage options it's become more practical than ever to digitally record and store video from your surveillance systems. You can view your home or business from your mobile device, tablet, PC and more from literally anywhere in the world. The piece of mind offered by the latest security cameras and video surveillance is priceless.


See Your Home Even When You're Not There

Cameras are the eyes of a security system. They provide more detail and feedback than any other single piece of equipment. Today's high quality cameras are capable of recording high resolution images during the day and at night, using infrared technology. This means that even the smallest details are visible, even in poor lighting. This leads to a much greater likelihood of a criminal being identified and prosecuted and your assets being recovered.
Cameras are also an excellent deterrent, preventing many break-ins. Thieves are less likely to strike when they can see cameras at a location. When a criminal sees security cameras, they will be more likely move on to easier prey.

It is a good idea to have both visible and concealed cameras. If a theft or crime occurs, the criminal can cover up any visible cameras. These cameras make the best deterrents, but are vulnerable to damage. Hidden cameras act as a backup camera and are more likely to capture the criminal in the act, without their knowledge. Better surveillance footage can be obtained when trespassers aren't aware they are being filmed.

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How to Do Security Cameras & Video Surveillance Right

Installation Options

Your video surveillance system can be hardwired to a DVR system or transmit video wirelessly. Systems that are hardwired are more difficult for outsiders to access, but may require unattractive cables to be visible or they must be concealed. A video monitor that operates on the same frequency as a wireless surveillance system may be able to access footage, presenting additional risk. Although the wireless systems are the more attractive option, hard wired cameras are more secure. When you purchase your cameras, you must choose the option that works best for you.

Camera Options

The location of each camera has its own unique requirements. There are a number of security cameras and mounts on the market today to accommodate these requirements. Domed and bullet cameras are very popular options, but aren't your only ones.
Outdoor locations may require specific camera housing and cables, depending on the climate. Indoors, the amount of personal privacy, concealment, and distance could also require a specific camera. You will be sure to find an option that meets your needs.

Sensors

Sensors are the foundation of your security system. Motion, movement, and vibration sensors can all be used to detect abnormal activity in a monitored location. This includes, but is not limited to, opened doors or windows, physical movement in a room, and breaking glass. These sensors are what prompt a security alert. Once an alert is received, police and the consumer are notified of the problem and the specific sensor that detected the issue.
When you know the location of the alert, you can use your system's cameras to view the area and determine if further action is required on your part. Sensors are the part of your security system that let you know something abnormal is happening, while the camera confirms it. Without sensors, your home or business would be at greater risk.

Monitors

A standard monitor is sufficient for most businesses and homes. It allows you to view all of the cameras on the property from a single location. A monitor also allows you to select a specific camera for full screen. You can also zoom in, record, rewind, and fast forward from the attached DVR. This allows you to review footage quickly. The more quickly you respond to a threat, the more likely your damages are to be minimized.
In addition to a monitor, some security systems transmit feed via a WIFI connection. That means that you can access your cameras remotely from a wide variety of devices, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This provides you will additional control over your security system and allows you greater flexibility.

Storage Options

There are two main types of data storage for most security systems, DVR and cloud storage. Each has its own benefits.

DVR

The Digital Video Recorder, or DVR, records your cameras 24/7 and overwrites the oldest data as it records. This allows you to review footage within a certain time frame. If your home or business is robbed or vandalized, you will have footage of the crime on hand. This helps identify offenders onsite. From your DVR, you will be able to share your footage with the police, your insurance company, and on social media. This is a great tool to help identify criminals and ensure they are prosecuted for their actions.

Cloud Storage

An often overlooked part of a security system is cloud storage. What happens if your DVR is compromised or destroyed during a theft? If that happens, cloud storage means that you won't lose your data. Video surveillance is automatically backed up using your WIFI connection to a server located elsewhere. This means that even if your system is completely destroyed, there is a backup copy of the footage located offsite that can be accessed.
Cloud storage is an important part of a high quality security system and monitoring service. You can take the chance that the DVR footage won't be damaged, but is it really worth the risk of not having backup storage?
You have many options when choosing a security system for your home or business. You must consider your unique needs when it comes to protecting your family, employees, and assets. Camera surveillance is an important part of this decision.

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