Unmanned aerial systems, more commonly referred to as drones, have been a buzz lately. Drones act as aerial surveillance cameras and are typically associated with military use. Lately, the use of drones for other endeavors is on the rise. At the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, drones were used as a security measure, but were also employed to capture a different view of events. The use of drones in sports is of interest and can be beneficial during practices and games. For example, UCLA is currently implementing the use of drones during football practice.
In sports like football, being able to see your players from overhead allows coaches a new view on their game plan. An aerial view allows coaches to correct spacing and placement, providing improved player and team performance. During actual sports games, having video footage from drones versus cable cameras can heighten the experience for fans and spectators. Since drones provide better maneuverability, their video footage can supply new viewing angles and may help determine whether or not a referee’s call was bad or justified.
While teams and coaches see the benefits of using drones, there are concerns about safety, privacy and ethical use. Safety issues include how high, low or far the drones can travel, as well as possible malfunctions that may occur. There is also a level of vulnerability to those in surrounding areas where the drone is being used. Also, sports teams may worry about other teams spying on practices. Recently, a drone was spotted flying above France’s training camp in Brazil for the World Cup 2014, raising concerns about spying. The issue is under investigation. In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration oversees the use of unmanned aircraft systems, however, specific rules and regulations are still in the works.
Cable camera systems are currently in use for football games, but are obviously limited in comparison to the drone’s versatility. These cable camera systems are also not ideal for all sports. For instance, using these cameras for golf tournaments is simply not practical. In regards to costs, drones can be much more affordable than cable camera systems. Once regulations and safety issues for drones are resolved, future use of drones in sports seems promising.
To our sports fanatics or security camera enthusiasts, what are your thoughts? Are you for or against their use in sports? Let us know what you think – tweet us @SecurityCamXprt, post on our Facebook wall, or share with us on Google+. You can even connect with us on Pinterest.
You can find our grand selection of security cameras, CCTV system packages, home alarm systems, and more online at SecurityCamExpert.com. If you’d like to speak with us directly, give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
Transit stations receive lots of foot traffic, with people taking advantage of its low cost and convenience. Unfortunately, these public transportation systems are also highly targeted for graffiti, thefts, assaults, and terrorist attacks. In an effort to fight back, an influx of advanced security cameras and high quality equipment have arrived.
Upgrading security camera systems to the latest technology produces better response times, heightened image quality, and, consequently, better suspect identification. With these sophisticated features, rider and driver safety is better preserved, deterring crimes and catching suspects faster.
An upgrade to IP systems from analog systems provides better, high resolution pictures and a way to wirelessly archive footage. Reviewing footage is simplified, allowing easy tagging of potential evidence. Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology is helpful in the sense that separate power cables are unnecessary, consolidating functions and cutting costs.
Security cameras installed closest to the driver booth enable audio function with built-in microphones. With this, direct communication to and from command centers is permitted and more efficient responses to problematic events can be delivered. Vandal proof security cameras help to maintain function if physical tampering occurs.
Wide angle camera lenses help increase the viewing field while decreasing the number of security cameras needed. With wide angle camera lenses and proper placement, blind spots can be minimized. Overall cost of the security camera system will go down because of the reduction in security camera needs.
Infrared/night vision and thermal imaging proves extremely beneficial transit systems, subways especially. These features help to see in darkness and detect warmth. Used in search and rescue efforts, an unconscious person can be found via thermal cameras. In cases of shootings, the heat from a recently fired gun will help locate the weapon, if discarded at the scene.
An excellent monitoring system is vital to the overall security camera system, providing remote viewing of the live feed and giving local authorities to access footage as necessary.
Overall, the security camera systems for public transit stations will help clear any liability issues or potential attacks or abuse. This will help protect both workers and civilians alike, helping to catch suspects faster and possibly prevent crimes before they happen. As our technology continues to improve, crime rates should continue to drop.
To employ your own security camera systems within your home or business, visit SecurityCamExpert.com. Give us a call at 1-888-203-6294 to speak with a representative; we will gladly assist you.
These days, security cameras are very common and proving their benefit to safety and solving crimes. It’s no surprise that pilot programs for wearable security cameras are being conducted within the law enforcement field. Locally, LAPD officers are testing on-body cameras for durability and quality. If all goes well, the best device will be chosen and policies for when and where recordings will be permitted will be in place by the end of the year.
The goal of these cameras is to provide safety for our officers as well as the general public. Footage from these cameras will serve as evidence in criminal cases, pushing officers and suspects to take responsibility for their actions.
Too often, officers are accused of using excessive force or brutality. With the body worn cameras, officers will be more aware of their behavior since both sides of the interaction will be recorded. Footage of the incident could be compared to police reports and testimony, helping to prove who should be held accountable. Any suspicious behavior on the officer’s part, such as missing footage, would be investigated and those involved would be punished accordingly.
While these body worn cameras provide safety from officers, they also protect the officers from the public. During trial runs, officers have reported that informing citizens that they’re being recorded have de-escalated intense situations. The mere presence of these cameras can dictate behavior, let alone knowing your actions are being recorded.
Potential problems and concerns that arise are the determination of when the cameras should be turned on and what they should be recording. To keep the cameras on continuously would be a waste of power and potentially impose on privacy rights. However, remembering to turn the camera on and off can cause a distraction and possibly compromise safety. Aside from that, should officers have access to their footage? Some believe that gaining access to the footage will allow officers to tailor their reports to what is recorded.
A few kinks need to be ironed out, but feedback from pilot programs lead us to believe that widespread use of body worn cameras is on the horizon. Do you believe these cameras will help keep everyone safe? Share your thoughts with us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ or Pinterest.
Looking for your own spy cameras, hidden cameras or security cameras? Shop our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. We will happily help you find what you need.
Purchasing and implementing a security camera system may seem like a time-consuming and costly endeavor, however, there are plenty of examples of why this isn’t so. Recently, a middle school raised its own funds to install their own security system. It took some time to raise funds, but the wait was worth the end result. While there may not be legions on people willing to help fund your quest for a security system, there are affordable options out there.
Before you begin to search for a security camera system, it is wise to evaluate your budget as well as the area you would like to secure. Are you looking for a home security system? Are you securing your business office? Do you only want to monitor indoors, outdoors, or both? For your convenience, SecurityCamExpert.com offers a free quote based on your needs.
For those relatively unfamiliar with security camera systems or those looking for a deal, security system packages are a smart choice. These packages can set you back a few hundred or so, depending on the number of cameras and specifications, but they provide the fundamental components to get you started. These systems allow you install a security system and, as funds permit, possibly upgrade or add equipment in the future.
If you have room to spend a bit more, you can build your own system tailored to your needs. The equipment is available individually, but prices can vary depending on resolution, camera type, etc. A basic security camera can start around $40-50 and go up from there depending on camera style and advanced features. Security cameras come in various styles with a wide range of features. Choose from bullet, dome, or box cameras with night vision, high resolution, PTZ abilities and more.
Digital video recorders, or DVRs, are a necessary expense. These can start in the low hundreds and up. It is wise to choose a DVR that comes with a hard drive for convenience and cost. Depending on how many cameras you will be installing, be sure to get a DVR that will support them. For example, 4 channel DVRs can support up to 4 cameras, 8 channel DVRs can support up to 8 cameras, and so on. While a DVR with fewer channels may cost less, if you plan on building your system in the future, you may want to purchase a DVR with more channels.
Proper power supplies and cabling are vital to your system as well. To save space and money, investing in 2 in 1 cables, such as video and power cables, will allow connection consolidation. Placing your security cameras close to a power source can help cut cost a bit as the length of the cables can sometimes add to its price.
For the best deal, choose a complete security camera system package that best meets your needs. If you prefer to choose your equipment and specifications, SecurityCamExpert.com can help you build a cost-effective security system. We will gladly work with your budget and answer any questions you may have. Visit us online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294 to speak with us directly.