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Monthly Archives: August 2015

Security Camera System Features

Over the years, home security has changed for the better. While some home security systems may still require you to set the alarm from the control panel mounted on your wall, and then rush out of your home in a set amount of time, others offer remote control features that make it much easier to secure your home.

Instead of worrying if you remembered to turn on the alarm or not, newer systems allow you to remotely access your security system from your mobile device. Enable or disable the alarm as necessary, keep an eye on what’s going on while you’re away, or even adjust the lights or temperature within your home.

If you’re looking to upgrade your old system, or looking for a new system all together, here are a few features that you will want your system to have.

Remote Monitoring & Control

Remote access to your system, these days, is ever important. As previously mentioned, support for remote monitoring and control can afford you extreme versatility and put your worries at ease. A way to help you choose a system is to search the App Store for the system you are interested in. Check the ratings and reviews as this will help give insight to how reliable the system is and how others are enjoying it.

Wireless Cellular Connection

Traditional security systems relied on phone lines which left your system vulnerable because these lines could easily be cut from the outside. Your best bet is to go with a wireless system, as systems with a cable connection are susceptible to the same vulnerability. The newest systems use a wireless cellular connection that is strictly dedicated to your security system for the best performance. There is no interference from other services, and maintains signal and power when Wi-Fi is down or in cases of power outages.

Alerts & Notifications

Remote support also allows you to receive alerts. You can monitor when your kids return home from school, if unusual activity is detected/recorded, or even if you forgot to close the garage on the way to work. Whether your system is armed or not doesn’t matter, these notifications are always on.

Connected Home

Connected devices help to enhance the safety and security of your home and loved ones. Devices like smoke alarms, CO sensors, and water sensors may connect to your system and warn you about impending emergencies such as a carbon monoxide leak or flood due to a cracked water pipe.

As you can see, there are many benefits to implementing a home security system. Secure your property and protect your loved ones with the proper security and surveillance equipment. Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our selection of security cameras, CCTV packages, wireless home alarm units, and much more. You may also contact us at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions, or connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

What To Look For In A Security Camera System

Security camera systems can be helpful in just about any setting. Whether you want to protect your home and loved ones or you want to keep an eye on your business and employees while you’re away, surveillance cameras can play a large role in providing you with a better sense of security.

Before you invest in a security camera system, it is wise to determine your budget, as well as your specific needs. Will you be monitoring indoors, outdoors, or both? Will you need surveillance around the clock or only during certain hours? Depending on your needs, different styles and features of security cameras may best suit you.

Dome Security Cameras

These cameras are dome shaped and are often tinted or clouded so that the direction of the lens is ambiguous. You may see large scale dome security cameras in high traffic areas like casinos or subway stations. Because its style is rather elusive, dome security cameras keep people guessing which usually results in better behavior. While these cameras do well in public places, they can be successful in monitoring your home or business as well. People tend to opt for dome security cameras because they are fairly easy to mount and install.

Bullet Security Cameras

These cameras are more noticeable than dome cameras. The bullet security camera gets its name from its resemblance to a bullet shell casing. These security cameras can vary in size; some people use this style to be discreet and others use it to provide a daunting presence. Bullet security cameras are best used when there is a specific area you want to monitor. While dome cameras can capitalize on PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) abilities, bullet cameras often boast a better long range zoom. With the appropriate mounting bracket, bullet cameras can be installed virtually anywhere.

Infrared Security Cameras

An infrared camera can come in either bullet or dome styles. Regardless of the style, infrared cameras have LEDs (light emitting diodes) which surround the lens and are usually automatic. The Infrared LEDs enable you to monitor your business or property through the night. When the light source is low or diminished, the LEDs kick in, and often turn your color camera to black and white for better resolution.

Indoor & Outdoor Use

Most cameras are suited for indoor use, but not all cameras are ideal for outdoor use. You can find security cameras that are waterproof, weatherproof, or vandal proof, along with additional housing for cameras you wish to use outdoors.

Be sure to evaluate the locations for your security cameras, including light sources, protection and weather conditions (namely for outdoor cameras), surveillance field, etc., before you make any final decisions on your security camera system. If you would like to further discuss your options or need any assistance, please feel free to contact us at 1-888-203-6294. We are happy to help you find the best security camera system for you. Visit us online to browse our stock and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

How To Install The Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System

The Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System is ideal for home security. Included in the system are 2 weatherproof cameras, along with a 4.3 inch LCD monitor, which also acts as a control panel for your system. Installation is a breeze and can be done with some simple tools. For your convenience, we’ve broken down the steps for you.

Before installing your wireless security cameras, you want to think about the best placement for them. Remember that the clear line of sight video transmission distance is 500 ft. Walls, especially brick and concrete, can interfere and shorten the transmission distance, whereas placement near windows allows for better transmission. You will also want to avoid having direct light sources in the view of your cameras. These direct light sources include street lights, floor or ceiling lamps, etc.

Because these cameras are equipped with built-in infra-red LEDs, you will also want to avoid pointing your camera lenses directly at clear glass as it will cause a blurred image. The LEDs allow for night vision, which enables 24-hour surveillance. These LEDs are activated automatically. Once activated, recordings then switch to black and white. Another thing to keep in mind is that the night viewing range is 40 ft.

The optimized motion detection range is also 40 ft. You should avoid pointing the cameras at bushes, tree branches, or objects that may naturally move due to winds, as these may falsely trigger the motion detection sensor.

The system will alert you with an “Out Of Range” display message if the camera and monitor are too far apart, as well as a Low Battery icon when recharging the battery is necessary.

When installing the cameras, you may want to bring the monitor along to ensure that your camera is in the right position. Out of the box, your monitor should have enough power to last during installation.

The placement of your camera will dictate where the stand should be placed. Mount your camera with the stand:

  • on the bottom if you are placing it on a flat surface, such as a tabletop
  • on the side if you are placing it on a wall
  • on the top it if you are installing it on the ceiling

To mount the camera base, you will need an electric drill, a 5mm drill bit, and a No.2 Phillips screwdriver. Start by holding the base in place where you want to mount it and mark the screw holes. Next, use the 5mm drill bit to drill holes. Then insert the anchors and use the included screws to attach the base to the wall or ceiling. You may also attach the base to a flat surface, like a tabletop, if desired. Before attaching the camera, gently tug at the base to make sure that it is securely in place.

Next, attach the camera bracket to the mounting screw. You can attach the stand to the top or the bottom of the camera as needed. Tighten it with a few turns and then adjust the camera to face the direction that you desire to monitor. Tighten the camera brace up against the camera to secure it into place. Lastly, attach the antenna to the back of the camera. Repeat these steps to install the second camera.

To power up the cameras, connect one end of an AC adapter to the camera’s power pigtail. Use the other end of the AC adapter to plug into a 120 volt AC power outlet, which is usually a standard indoor outlet.

After you install your cameras, you may power up the monitor by pressing and holding the power button on the left side of the monitor for 1-2 seconds. You should see the Uniden title screen and then the live view from your cameras. If necessary, you may adjust the camera position to suit your viewing needs.

Now you have successfully installed your Uniden UDR444 Video Surveillance System. If you have any questions regarding these steps, please contact us. Call 1-888-203-6294 or visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

How To Protect Your Security Camera Cabling

Carefully and strategically employed security camera systems can help protect your property and your loved ones. It is a wise choice to invest in the safety and protection of your family and assets with a security camera system.

If you are opting for a wired security camera system, an important aspect of your installation is your cabling. Yes, you want everything connected properly, but you also want to protect your wires and cables. If potential criminals can access your wires, they can easily cut them and disable your system. Don’t be a victim – protect your security camera system with these tips.

Paint The Wires

An easy way to keep your wires hidden is to install them close and tight to the baseboards or where the wall meets the ceiling. Once you get the wires as flush to the surfaces as possible, use the same color paint to camouflage your wires. While they are still vulnerable, they are harder to spot.

Behind The Baseboard

Running the wire behind the baseboard is a relatively simple procedure that offers more protection. Start by gently removing the baseboard so as to not damage it if you will be using it again. Then, press the wire into the gap between the wall and floor. You may use a putty knife to ensure that the wires are as far back as they can go to avoid getting caught by the edge of the baseboards. Once they are in place, you may return the baseboards. The downside is that you will have to remove the baseboards again if there is some sort of electrical malfunction requiring you to access your cables.

Plastic Tubing

Running your wiring through plastic tubes through your wall is likely the best protection for your wiring, but also the most intrusive. This method not only hides your cables, but also protects it from the elements, rodents, and insects. If you decide to go this route, it’s best to get assistance from professionals. At SecurityCamExpert.com, we offer installation services and cable runs at competitive prices for your convenience. Contact us for a free quote or to schedule an appointment today.

To avoid wires and cables all together, you can opt for a wireless security camera system. We offer a great selection affordable wireless security cameras and surveillance equipment. Feel free to visit us online or call 1-888-203-6294 for more information.

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