When it comes to security systems, there are many options to consider. How many security cameras do you need? Which type of security cameras do you need? How much memory will you need for the DVR? The questions can go on and on. An important decision comes down to choosing a wired or wireless security camera system. While both have their own benefits and downfalls, it all depends on your needs and the environment you’ll be surveying.
First, it is important to evaluate your environment. Will you be monitoring your home or an office? Which areas are of concern to you? Answering these questions beforehand will give you a better idea of what you really need, simplifying the buying process.
Regardless of what you are shopping for, knowing your budget and sticking to it is important. How much can you spend and how much are you willing to spend? In combination with your needs, this can determine whether or not you go wired or wireless.
For wired security camera systems, everything is physically connected. While this provides a fairly secure connection, a simple cutting of the wires can disable the entire system. Luckily, most wired security systems may sound an alarm when wires are cut. Also, most people opt to hide wiring behind walls or underground for appearance purposes as well as security system protection. Depending on how you see it, having to plug into a power source can be either a blessing or a curse. Your system will always be connected, but power outages may pose a problem.
For wireless security camera systems, wireless transmission makes for an easier set up and installation. Eliminating the need for wiring and cabling can save some money also. The wireless aspect does, however, leave the security system open to interference from other wireless systems, either triggering false alarms or compromising the system overall. Still, on the other hand, wireless security camera systems are much more convenient for relocating than wired security camera systems.
It is also best to know that since wireless systems are based on wireless transmissions, signals may not reach as far. Wired security camera systems can be adjusted with different cable lengths. Thus, for larger homes, a wired security system may be better suited. Likewise, wireless security systems may work better is smaller spaces.
As discussed, both wired and wireless systems have their advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to examine your needs, budget and which aspects work for you.
At SecurityCamExpert.com, you’ll find both wired and wireless security camera systems. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact us at 1-888-203-6294. Our staff is knowledgeable and happy to help.
A story ran recently about wide-area surveillance and how it was quietly used in Compton, CA, to help solve crimes. This type of surveillance was provided by Persistent Surveillance Systems, a security company started by retired Air Force veteran Ross McNutt. Security cameras attached to the belly of a small aircraft essentially watch a given city or area in real time. While there are pros to this type of surveillance, there are many concerns.
This wide area surveillance system acts as a cost-effective eye in the sky. If a crime occurs, authorities can review the footage in a specific area to follow the suspect’s moves and eventually catch them. The problem then becomes the fact that everyone in the given area is being monitored, both suspects and civilians.
While they may not be watching everyone’s every move, they definitely have the resources to do so. How can residents be sure that the footage isn’t being abused? When does this surveillance go too far? As in the case of the Compton, CA story, residents were unaware they were being monitored. Would it have been more accepted if residents were informed? No one likes to be left in the dark, especially when it comes to being watched and recorded. Residents and authorities should be able to discuss concerns and vote on implementation. If this wide-area surveillance system drops crime rates, and consequently makes the neighborhood safer, residents may be more welcoming to the surveillance system.
It has proved successful in the past, effectively locating bombing suspects in Afghanistan. Aside from that, its cost pales in comparison to its ability to monitor large scale areas. While it can’t zoom in and won’t produce clear, high quality pictures of faces, it can track movement and lend itself to proving that someone is innocent or guilty.
If this type of surveillance was being employed in your neighborhood or city, how would you feel or react? Would knowing about it beforehand change the way you felt about it? Do you agree or disagree with the direction our security measures are headed? We would love to hear your responses and feedback. Find us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and Pinterest.
For traditional security cameras, CCTV system packages, home alarm units and more, visit SecurityCamExpert.com. To speak with us directly, please call 1-888-203-6294.
Home alarm systems can give you peace of mind while you’re away, but they can sometimes cost an arm and a leg. With proper research and strategic planning, you can either find a home alarm system within your budget, or utilize certain techniques to protect your home. The consensus seems to be that home alarm systems are worth the investment.
You have two options when it comes to home alarm systems – wired or wireless. Wired systems are secured through intricate cabling that should be deliberately hidden or run within walls to prevent tampering. While wired systems tend to cost less, they do require cabling work, and if cables are found, they are vulnerable to system disablement.
Wireless systems eliminate the needs for wiring, and allow the system to span larger areas. They are also more convenient for renters as they can be uninstalled and reinstalled fairly easily. Their power comes from batteries so it’s important to be sure that equipment is adequately charged and working properly. While wireless systems often provide more convenience, they tend to be priced a little higher as well.
Whichever fits within your budget and needs should be invested in. But if neither fit within your budget, there are simple tactics to employ to dissuade potential burglars from targeting your home.
Be aware of what can be seen from outside your home. If your flat screen television or laptops can be seen from outside, you may want to reconsider placement or utilize curtains or blinds. You may also want to make it appear as if people are home, even if no one is. Leave a light on or leave a car in the driveway so your house does not seem completely vulnerable. If possible, have a friend or neighbor periodically check on your home and pick up your mail. An accumulation of mail or newspapers is a dead giveaway for an unattended home. Lastly, reinforcing locks on doors and windows or large fences around your perimeter can help add an extra layer of protection.
At SecurityCamExpert.com, we offer wireless home alarm units. Our home alarm bundles range from $94.99-$169.99, providing you with the basics. You can add additional products to your system or build your own system with items starting as low as $24.
Browse our stock online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. Our staff is always happy to help you with your security system needs.
The standard yellow school bus just got updated – Dallas County recently unveiled a heightened security school bus. While it looks the same superficially, features such as security cameras, thumbprint scanners and GPS trackers have been added. These measures are an attempt to keep children safe on the way to and from school.
The stop sign that extends when kids are loading and unloading is now equipped with a license plate camera to catch those not obeying the sign. Ignoring the stop sign puts children in potential danger of getting hit by a car. To prevent other accidents, security cameras are also placed low on the front and back of the buses. This will minimize blind spots and help drivers catch small children that may be out of naked eye’s view.
For added security, a thumb scanner greets the students upon entering. Students authorized to ride the bus will be in the system already. The scanner will alert the driver if the student’s thumbprint does not match any in the system. Once inside, more cameras cover the span of the bus. A code of conduct is dispersed to students so that they know what kind of behavior is expected and what will not be tolerated. The driver makes sure that students are buckled safely before departing.
The bus also has a communication system set up so that, in case of emergencies, the bus can contact headquarters and vice versa. The GPS tracker is also a helpful bonus so that headquarters can keep track of where the students are located. When situations are dire, this system may help to provide speedier response time and better care since they have access to surveillance feeds and can see what is happening in real time.
In regards to funding, as these additions seem costly, the county is footing the bill. They assure everyone that the school district need not supply additional funds. This helps the district focus their funds and efforts elsewhere, such as bettering the quality of education.
Concerns may arise on how successful these security tactics will be. How necessary is the thumbprint scanner? Will the stop sign cameras really deter drivers from running them? Could the county funds be put to better use? Only time will tell.
Privacy may also be an issue with the heavy use of security cameras inside and outside of the bus. If the interior security cameras will prevent misbehavior or bullying, they are worth a shot. However, the outdoor cameras, depending on what is caught on camera can potentially be troublesome.
We would love you hear your take on this new security-rich school bus. Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ or Pinterest. And for your security needs, visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
In the news recently is Baltimore County’s $3.7 million security system project for elementary schools. After an unfortunate on-campus shooting incident in 2012, plans of heightening security have been in the works and are finally being implemented. As we have previously discussed, security cameras on school campuses proves to be a troublesome topic. While most are in favor of this new security system, there are still others who believe it is an invasion of privacy and a waste of funds.
This project would install at least 3 security cameras at 107 elementary schools along with door locks and card readers. From the security cameras, police would have remote access to a live feed and floor plans. Supporters of the plan believe it will promote safety and help authorities respond in a timely and appropriate manner.
With students aware of being monitored at school, this may change their behavior and could potentially correct misbehavior or decrease bullying on campuses as well. However, this may cause concern to those wary of the security cameras use. The cameras can instill an inappropriate fear, and, in a sense, be “bullying” students to act a certain way. While it may get the job done, how ethical is the method?
Also, will having our children under constant surveillance be too imposing? Some believe it is the direction our society is moving toward so, in a way, we are simply preparing our children for the future. On the other hand, what happened to rights and privacy? How are parents’ concerns being addressed?
Opposition also stems from the cost of the project. Supporters believe the money is being put to good use, while others believe the money can go towards bettering the education system. In this case, the debate becomes safety versus education, which would be a no brainer for most. Essentially, these two go hand in hand; safe environments promote education as better education leads to a smarter, safer future. Parents need to feel comfortable sending their children to a safe school to get a proper education.
As technology advances, security cameras have the potential to become more commonplace nearly everywhere. Those against Big Brother-like surveillance may still fight against it, but it seems we are headed towards a high security, high surveillance existence. We would love to hear your comments on the topic – share them with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or Pinterest.
For your security cameras and security systems needs, visit SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a ring at 1-888-203-6494. We’re happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.