| Having a wireless camera security system installed in the office or home is a good idea, especially when the rising crime rate is considered. Some of these cameras are linked via Wi-Fi and can send video to a smartphone, laptop or other internet-connected device. Such a system is a great way to: Monitor, observe and record people’s activities as they enter and leave the premisesClosely monitor people’s faces, crowds, license plate numbers and merchandise (if applicable) Before choosing a system, the buyer must decide whether they want an outdoor or indoor setup. IP network cameras are great for some applications, and these questions should be answered before the buyer selects a particular camera system. Such considerations are important because they allow buyers to narrow their requirements and to choose a security camera system that meets their needs and budget. Choosing the Right Camera Type As mentioned in the sections above, customers should evaluate their security needs and the recording environment. Based on an in-depth assessment, the client can then select a camera system that works for the chosen application. Wired Camera Systems Most home and business CCTV systems include wired cameras, and they are very popular because of their easy setup and affordability. Most wired models can be used indoors or outdoors, and they come with infrared cut-filters used to capture black and white images at night. As far as connection ports are concerned, wired camera systems are available in BNC or DIN configurations. It’s possible to buy a wired CCTV system for a few hundred dollars, but those looking to cover large areas or outfit an office with a security system should budget a little more. Wireless Camera Security Systems Although just a few years ago a wireless camera security system was a new invention (and prices were on the high side), availability has risen and prices have declined significantly in the recent past. Many homeowners and business owners are turning to these wireless camera systems because they make it easy to build a sophisticated, robust surveillance setup for the home or office. Wireless camera systems are very secure, and almost all systems offer extremely clear video and audio recording. IP Network-Based Systems An IP network security camera is a fine option if the user wants to monitor the premises from a distance. In most cases, people use these cameras to monitor large properties such as homes, parking garages and large industrial complexes. These systems function on an IP connected to the in-house network router, and they can be used to observe activity from near or far over the internet. Some IP camera systems also come with the option to save video to a PC, memory card or network video recorder. Imaging Chips in CCTV Systems The quality and type of imaging chip in a CCTV system is very important. Generally, security cameras create images using two chip types: CCD and CMOS. Cheap, low-quality camera systems typically use CMOS imaging technology, which is why they offer low light sensitivity and poor image quality. Conversely, CCTV cameras with CCD chips are known for their excellent video quality and high light sensitivity. To evaluate the camera’s quality, look for CCD chip size. The large the chip, the higher the video quality will be—but the price will be higher as well. Black & White or Color Video If a user needs a CCTV system for a location with low lighting, they should buy a black and white imaging system. Color cameras are best for indoor use under optimal lighting conditions. For an office or warehouse, color cameras are a good choice in outdoor and indoor installations. Users should understand the light levels used in a CCTV system when purchasing a camera. The light level is measured according to the lux metric. With a lower lux number, less light is required to produce a crisp, clear video. Learn About Resolution With that said, users should also understand why resolution is important. If a camera has a higher resolution, it will be capable of producing sharp, clear videos. A lower resolution camera typically produces 300 lines, and higher resolution models can produce upwards of 400 lines for improved image quality. When buying a camera system, the customer should buy monitors that match the camera’s resolution. Recording and Saving Video Most users want to save video for later use, and this recorded footage can be valuable evidence in criminal cases. For the best recording results, users should choose a DVR (digital video recorder) that records video data and retains it on a hard drive. The DVR is regarded as the best option for commercial and home use. Benefits of Wireless Systems There are many benefits to equipping a home or business with a wireless camera system. A conventional wired system can easily be defeated with little more than a set of wire cutters, but a wireless system has no such vulnerability. Wireless systems can be put anywhere, making it easier to monitor the premises under optimal conditions. Footage is secure, as long as it is recorded to an offsite backup. Choose a wireless surveillance system that saves its data to the cloud, and enjoy the capability to watch it from any connected device. Wireless systems use the best encryption techniques, keeping footage safe from conventional and cyber criminals. Simply take along a tablet, phone or laptop, and never worry about not knowing what’s happening at home or in the office. |
