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Expensive Security System Mistakes
Sometimes you end up paying more than you should when it comes to home security systems. Whether it is from lack of research or sheer convenience, there are ways to effectively invest in your home security without breaking the bank. Review these common home security mistakes to ensure you are getting the most for your money.
• Mistake: Your first option was your only option.
Don’t just go with the first company you find -do your research. Check out both local and national companies to compare rates and get free quotes when possible. This step will help you discover who truly values your security versus those looking for a big sale.
• Mistake: You didn’t consider lifestyle changes.
Aside from thinking about your current needs, you should also consider your future plans. For example, if you’re planning on growing your family, you may want more surveillance in the nursery. Or, if you’re single, you may relocate a few times before settling in to a spot, so you may want to inquire about cancellation or relocation services.
• Mistake: You’re overlapping cameras.
While the idea of having multiple angles on entryways and high traffic areas sounds safer, it could be unnecessary. Focus more on getting the best angles with the least amount of cameras. This will save you money on equipment and could make it easier to manage your system.
• Mistake: You didn’t talk about discounts.
When it comes to discounts, it doesn’t hurt to ask. You could be missing out on special deals and offers, such as a Veteran or senior citizen discount, or you may even be able to work out a payment plan rather than paying it all up front.
• Mistake: You haven’t updated your insurance.
No matter what kind of equipment you choose, be sure to let your home insurance provider know. These systems may add value to your home, and could possibly save you some cash on your monthly payment. But before committing to system, you should check with your provider.
• Mistake: You have more than you need.
In relation to the overlapping cameras, you may have opted for the most comprehensive system when you really could do with a simple set up. Evaluate your needs, such as how many entry points you wish to monitor, and you can tailor your system accordingly. Remember that when it comes to security cameras, choose quality over quantity.
If you’ve made any of these mistakes, you can still make them right. If you need help, please feel free to call us at 888-203-6294. We can help with surveillance equipment, site surveys, and security camera installation. Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our selection and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
SecurityCamExpert.com Wants To Thank You
Thanksgiving is upon us and we always feel so honored and blessed to have such loyal customers. We are happy to provide you with the best security camera systems and equipment, professional installation, and exceptional customer service because your security is our priority. We appreciate your continued support over the years and we wish you the best for this Thanksgiving holiday and always.
And remember, we will be closed on Thursday, November 23, 2017 and Friday, November 24, 2017, for the holiday. Our normal hours will resume on Monday, November 27, 2017. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.
From the SecurityCamExpert.com family to yours, we hope you enjoy a Thanksgiving filled with love, happiness and good food. Please be safe over holiday weekend.
Why You Need IP Security Cameras
Security camera systems have made great advances over the years. From traditional analog CCTV technology to IP networking, security camera quality and features have improved to provide better monitoring and security. Some of these enhanced benefits include higher resolutions resulting in clearer images, fewer cameras covering larger areas, and thus, a lower total cost of ownership. Many businesses and homeowners are opting to trade up to network IP security cameras, network video recorders (NVRs) and cloud-based storage for more convenient and affordable security.
Network IP Cameras & Assisted Living Communities
Aside from protecting homes and company headquarters, assisted living communities can also reap the benefits of installing network IP security cameras.
In the way that security cameras deter burglars from targeting your property, in assisted living facilities, the aim is to deter abuse and neglect. By strategically placing these cameras in and around the facility, family members can put their worries at ease by reviewing stored footage to ensure that no mistreatment is taking place and that the staff is providing the proper care. For facility managers, video surveillance footage can provide evidence should an employee or resident be charged with abusive behavior.
Network IP cameras can also help the staff keep a closer eye on residents or patients. For those residents at risk for falls, staff can potentially prevent falls and injuries, or respond faster to those incidents. Medical equipment such as oxygen tubes may get dislodged, and staff can get to the rooms faster to fix the problems. In the case of memory units, the entrances and exits can be closely monitored to prevent residents from wandering outside of supervised areas, and can help protect the facility from possible intruders.
These security cameras can also prevent employee theft. Although we would rather think that this is uncommon, it is not unheard of for residents to report their belongings stolen. Whether these claims are accurate or not, cameras provide evidence to prove what really happened. Also, facilities often find that supplies may go missing. To counter these losses, IP cameras can document the incident or prevent it from occurring in the first place.
Of course, opponents of these security measures stand firm in their belief that it makes it more difficult to recruit staff and that employees will have trouble making sound decisions for fear of families challenging their actions. The problem with this stance is that numerous other careers and industries are under constant surveillance with little to no issues arising. Proponents of employee surveillance believe these measures will help workers to make better decisions and avoid any questionable situations.
Why Should You Upgrade To IP Security Cameras?
As stated, upgrading to IP security cameras comes with a myriad of enhanced benefits. Aside from the obvious video quality improvement, IP cameras are able to utilize your existing CAT5 or CAT6 Ethernet cabling, saving time and money on installation. The intelligent video features include facial recognition, motion detection, audio detection and people-counting, to name a few. Also, because they are connected to the Internet, owners are able to remotely view live video, search archived footage, and receive alerts via any PC, tablet, or smart phone.
Choosing the Right IP Security Camera
Because the various IP camera choices on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming. Here are some important features you should know about before choosing the best IP cameras for your needs.
- Camera Types
There are three design options for IP cameras: bullet, dome and PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom). As inferred by their name, bullet cameras resemble a bullet shaped and best suited for directional monitoring. They typically do not possess the capability to zoom in or move. Dome cameras are shaped like domes and ambiguously monitor areas, aiding in its role of deterring misconduct. “Speed domes” spin quickly to capture a broader range of images. Lastly, PTZ cameras are ideal for covering large areas. These cameras can move and capture different angles, thus, delivering the work of several fixed-point cameras in one single device. PTZ surveillance cameras may also be preprogrammed to scan an area or may be controlled remotely.
- Resolution
IP camera resolution is the amount of visual data that can be captured and is measured in megapixels. It is often provided in horizontal and vertical pixel dimensions (ex. A camera that has 1280 x 1024 resolution is 1.3MP because 1280 x 1024 = 1,310,720 or 1.3MP). A higher resolution means the camera can capture more data, resulting in improved video clarity.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
This allows you to transmit power over the data cable, which can run up to 100 feet. This will save you money and decrease installation limitations. In addition, the PoE standard 802.3af supports higher power ratings needed for motorized cameras (ex. PTZ).
- Wide Dynamic Range
If you are monitoring an area that has challenging lighting conditions, you will want a camera that has good wide dynamic range (WDR). This will control the backlight and remove shadows to produce adequate footage in difficult environments.
- IR LED
Infrared (IR) LED lighting is like night vision, allowing cameras to capture clear footage in low to no light conditions. IP cameras can see infrared light and when wavelengths reflect back, it is as if the room is illuminated and the camera can record video. Night vision capabilities improve with more IRLEDs and longer ranges.
- Weather/Vandal Resistance
If you are using your surveillance cameras outdoors, be sure to choose weatherproof and “vandal resistant” cameras, which will often be IP66 rated and IK10 rated respectively. This will safeguard against water or dirt, which can interfere with your recordings or damage your equipment. Some cameras even offer thermostatic controls, which will help to prevent condensation forming over the lens.
When upgrading to IP cameras within your home, business, or in assisted living communities, be sure to evaluate your needs and review your options before making a final decision. If you need assistance, please feel free to call us at 888-203-6294 to speak with a representative and request a free quote. You may also visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our inventory of network IP cameras and surveillance equipment.
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Business Security Misconceptions
As a business, you want to provide a sense of security and safety for both your customers and employees. So long as you continue to provide secure transactions, and safeguard your property and assets around the clock, you afford your business the opportunity for continued success.
You can achieve this level of protection with the right business security camera system. Without a proper security system, you leave your business at risk for theft, vandalism, and other criminal acts. And statistics unfortunately show that businesses are more often targeted than homes.
A business security camera system tailored to your specific needs will improve security, provide evidence as needed, and may even lower your insurance premiums. Despite these benefits, businesses still put themselves at risk by either failing to invest in security cameras or choosing outdated security systems. These actions are often rooted in common misconceptions regarding security systems, such as these.
Myth: Security systems are too expensive.
While they may have had hefty price tags in the past, nowadays there are plenty of high quality and affordable security camera systems on the market. By opting for higher quality systems, you are less likely to encounter performance issues and costly repairs.
Also, the cost of security systems hardly compares to the cost of replacing stolen items. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, employee theft alone costs an estimated $20 billion to $40 billion per year.
Myth: Any security system is better than no security system.
While shortcuts may be easier, installing dummy cameras or only a few real security cameras still leaves your business vulnerable. Areas may go unmonitored, allowing for any misconduct to go unnoticed.
And with an outdated security system, you may come across issues left and right. Inconsistent performance may mean that break-ins or incidents go undocumented, leaving you with no evidence.
Myth: It’s just too complicated to update your security system.
Some believe that upgrading and updating security systems may take too much time, money, and resources. However, with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. Aside from updating your network, installation can be rather simple, especially if you hire a professional company. Informing your staff about the change and keeping them in the loop will help the process go smoothly and quickly as well.
If you are still hesitant about investing in a business security system, or have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 888-203-6294. Our representatives will be happy to assist you and provide you with a free quote. You may also browse our inventory online at SecurityCamExpert.com, and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Smart Homes: Proceed With Caution
Some people may opt for traditional security cameras for home security, but the landscape is changing. The emergence of connected devices has spurred the popularity of smart homes and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, as we connect more technologies and devices, we may be putting ourselves at a greater risk.
Internet of Things
Most people have heard of the term, but those who haven’t may not even realize they are a part of it. Whether you own a smartphone, smart TV or even a tablet, you are connected to the Internet of Things. And if you are investing in smart home appliances, you are absolutely connected.
Because of this, smart homes tend to be more susceptible to threats thanks to the lax cybersecurity measures (if at all) of most smart appliances. Even if other devices, such as smart thermostats, garage doors, or fire alarms, may have stronger security measures, if they share the same network as other, less secure appliances they are vulnerable to exposure and attacks.
In order to protect users and their own reputations, smart appliance manufacturers must take cybersecurity measures seriously. For your own safety, research the products you are interested in and be sure that their security measures meet or exceed your expectations.
Basic Security
One of the main problems with smart security technology is the do-it-yourself approach. Most consumers are drawn to DIY solutions because they seem to be more cost-effective, user-friendly, and cut out the need for professional installation. Unfortunately, mistakes made by the user could further compromise their security.
While these smart technologies indeed promote security and convenience, you may want to tread lightly. Consider the pros and cons of transitioning your home into a smart home and be sure to do your research and take the necessary precautions to ensure that your devices and systems are as secure and up-to-date as possible.
If you are weary of these smart security measures, you can always go the traditional route with security cameras and CCTV surveillance systems. Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to shop our selection or call 888-203-6294 for more information and a free quote! You can also find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.