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Should I Upgrade To Network IP Cameras?
As times change, so does technology. Analog security cameras are slowly fading away, being replaced with much more advanced and efficient solutions. In particular, network IP cameras offer numerous benefits and are a welcome upgrade from analog cameras.
These benefits include easy installation, transition, expansion, and management. Installation for network IP cameras has become easier as plug-and-play options are more readily available. New technologies have allowed analog and IP cameras to coexist within the same system, allowing a slow and smooth transition to an all IP system. Because work is done over a network, expanding and upgrading your security system can be done in house, saving you time and money. Managing your security camera system becomes effortless as you can access your feed remotely through apps on your mobile devices, tablets, or PCs.
There are many reasons to consider upgrading to network IP cameras, and many cost-effective options are out there. Here are a few of our top-selling network IP cameras:
SCE CMPS330 720P Wireless Night Vision IP Camera
This wireless IP camera offers plug-and-play installation, along with cloud storage service and remote viewing through mobile devices. This night vision camera possesses 12 LEDS, 1/4” CMOS image sensor, and 720p real-time video coding (with H.264 stream support). Delivering quality picture and performance for a low price, this camera is a steal!
Grandstream GXV3672-FHD-36 Outdoor Day/Night FHD 3.6MM IP Camera
With this Grandstream outdoor security camera, you’ll get quality and reliability. Boasting a 3.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and HD Lens, H.264 stream support, and a pre/post event recording buffer, you won’t miss a thing. This camera also has embedded video analytics as well as support for SIP/VoIP, motion detection, and notifications on PC Client. There’s not much this security camera can’t do.
SCE 7184A 2MP HD IP Network PTZ Camera
Offering excellent pan, tilt, and zoom abilities, our IP network PTZ camera provides the best features for a smart price. Our PTZ camera has 1080P full HD resolution, 30x/20x optical zoom and 16x digital zoom, with up to 328FT IR distance for comprehensive, quality surveillance. With an appealing design and price, this IP network PTZ camera will be a great addition to your security camera system.
You can browse the rest of our stock of network IP cameras and NVRs (network video recorders) online at SecurityCamExpert.com. To speak with us directly, you can call us Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm at 1-888-203-6294.
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What’s New In Video Surveillance Technology
It’s amazing to look back on how security camera technology has changed and evolved for the better. We once only knew of grainy, black and white footage, and now we can record in color in near complete darkness, and access live feeds through our devices. This year, our technology is improving clarity, storage, and overall performance to bring you the best. Let’s take a look at the big video surveillance trends coming this year.
VSaaS / Cloud Computing
Video Surveillance-as-a-Service (VSaaS) provides remote management and archiving through the cloud. When combined with the cloud and cloud computing, managing your system is easier, whether done in house or outsourced to a third party. Upgrades and updates are more easily accessible, more storage space is available, and additional services can be added.
Analytics, Business Intelligence (BI), & Big Data
The amount of structured and unstructured data (big data) from video surveillance is ripe with valuable insights for businesses. When paired with surveillance footage, analytics technology can produce fruitful information thanks to high resolution and constant connection. Because of network connections, video footage can produce beneficial timelines for crimes and identify shopping patterns at retail stores, allowing for improved safety for the public and a more personalized shopping experience. This gives businesses better insight on all levels, proving that an enhanced security camera system can aid in business success.
Video Compression & Bandwidth Usage
Compression technology plays a large part in efficiency and performance. Advancement in this area will allow significant file size reduction with minimal to no compromising of picture quality. There are several video compression standards, with H.264 being the latest and most efficient. However, H.265 technology is on the horizon, which can reduce bandwidth and storage demands. As with most new technology, H.265 will slowly be introduced in more high-end products before becoming the standard, along with H.264.
With such great trends to come, we are excited to see what will unfold. What are your thoughts and expectations for the surveillance industry in 2015? Share your opinions with us – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com and shop our stock of security cameras, DVRs, NVRs, camera packages, and more. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-888-293-6294 and our sales team will be happy to assist you.
Valentine’s Day Fun Facts
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the stress may be setting in for the procrastinators out there. To lighten the mood, we’ve decided to share ten fun facts about the love-filled holiday.
1. In 1537, England’s King Henry VII officially declared Feb. 14 the holiday of St. Valentine’s Day.
2. In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who would be their Valentine. They would wear this name pinned onto their sleeves for one week for everyone to see. This was the origin of the expression “to wear your heart on your sleeve.”
3. The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare’s lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every Valentine’s Day.
4. The red rose was the favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
5. Each year, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine’s Day worldwide.
6. In order of popularity, Valentine’s Day cards are given to teachers, children, mothers, wives, sweethearts and pets.
7. 220,000 is the average number of wedding proposals on Valentine’s Day each year.
8. Richard Cadbury created the first Valentine’s Day candy box in the 1800s.
9. About 8 billion candy hearts will be produced this year; that’s enough candy to stretch from Rome, Italy to Valentine, Arizona 20 times and back again.
10. Over $1 billion worth of chocolate is purchased for Valentine’s Day in the U.S.
Bonus Fact: Were having a sale! Starting on Monday, February 9, 2015 until Valentine’s Day, when you spend $300 or more at SecurityCamExpert.com, you’ll receive a complimentary box of chocolates. Consider it our way of showing our adoration for you; a little Valentine’s Day gift from us to you.
This offer applies to both phone orders and online orders, however, you must mention the promotion when ordering. For online orders, please use the Order Comments box to note the promotion. This offer applies to website pricing only, and orders of at least $300 or more. This offer may not be combined with other offers; limit one per customer. Offer valid February 9-14, 2015.
Which facts were surprising to you? Do you have any facts to share? You can reach us on our social networks – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest. And be sure to act fast – our special offer ends on Valentine’s Day!
Choosing A Security Camera System
Choosing a security camera system properly equipped to suit your needs is ever important. When choosing a system, you should understand your wants and needs before you proceed to shop. Here, we’ll break down some basics to get you started.
Placement
There are many factors to consider when it comes to placement. Which areas would you like to monitor? Whether the security camera will be used indoors or outdoors will dictate which type of camera you use. Security cameras are usually identified as indoor or outdoor cameras, with outdoor cameras being built a bit more sturdy and, likely, weatherproof and/or waterproof.
Wired vs. Wireless
Placement may also determine whether you choose wired or wireless cameras. Wired cameras usually provide a more secure, constant connection. The downfall is that a simple cut or disconnection of wire and equipment can take down your system. Also, depending on its location, wiring may not be feasible. Wireless cameras make it a bit simpler, allowing connection through a local network, and letting you install them virtually anywhere. Connection may be an issue, depending on the distance between cameras and servers. Luckily, as technology improves, this problem will likely be eliminated.
Lighting
The lighting in the environment you will be monitoring plays a vital role in determining which features will produce the best results. For an area in which lighting will be relatively ample and constant, most cameras will work beautifully. However, in dimly lit areas, or areas where the light source will be intermittently available, you’ll want to invest in cameras with day/night vision and possibly infrared LEDs for better night vision.
Fixed vs. PTZ
Another thing to consider is the question of a fixed or PTZ camera. Ultimately, this depends on how you would like to survey your grounds. Fixed cameras are set on a fixed area, needing manual adjustment to view other areas, whereas PTZ cameras afford a more flexible range. With PTZ cameras, you can remotely adjust the lens to move left and right (pan), up and down (tilt), and zoom in and out as needed.
Viewing
As far as recording and viewing goes, you’ll want to choose the appropriate DVR (digital video recorder) or NVR (network video recorder). If you want to monitor your feed at home or in an office, a DVR and CCTV monitor will do just fine. If, however, you would like to view your live feed from your smart phone while on the go, you’ll want to find a DVR or NVR which supports mobile viewing and your mobile device.
At SecurityCamExpert.com, we carry a wide variety of security cameras and camera systems to match different needs. Shop our selection online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. You can also connect with us on our social networks – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
How Wearable Technology Will Impact Education
Wearable technology has evolved right before our eyes. Our childhood experiences vary drastically from the children growing up today. As we hone our technology and the Internet of Things, we are subsequently changing the learning environment for our children.
Wearable technology can and will have a positive and enriching impact on the classroom, namely, field trips. In the early stages, wearable tech will enhance the experience, allowing for students to more actively engage in the learning experience. As wearable tech advances, data gathered from field trips will be easier to record, consume, and share across various networks. Eventually students from around the world could potentially be sharing learning experiences and helping each other.
For in-person field trips, students will soon be able to scan QR codes or capture images to find out more information, whether it is in the form of text, video or audio. Enabling students to do so will encourage participation and the first-hand interaction will help them better understand the learning objectives.
After the field trip, rather than a simple discussion, students can take photos or record audio and video to bring back to the classroom. They can share their experiences with peers within the classroom, and even through social media. This will enable lessons and information to reach students across the world.
Virtual reality can take field trips to a whole new level. Students will be able to enjoy and experience things we never thought possible. In lieu of in person field trips, virtual reality headsets could bring the experience to the classroom. Students would be able to virtually explore the Grand Canyon, Ancient Greece, and the depths of the ocean, all in one day and without leaving school. This advanced tech helps kids tap into their imaginative and creative side while teaching students great interpersonal skills.
Such an immersive learning environment is promising for young students. This will hopefully encourage students to be more involved in the curriculum, and persuade students to continue their education into college and graduate school. Knowledge is power, and with new technology, this power is strengthened.
What are your thoughts on wearable technology and its impact on school and education? Do you have young children in school who use some of this technology? How has it helped your children? We would love to hear from you. Connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest!
Find excellent security cameras, CCTV camera systems, and equipment at SecurityCamExpert.com. Visit us online for our list of services and products, or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
Police Surveillance Devices Help Keep The Community Safe
Safety, on all levels, is a major concern. With recent events across the world, now more than ever do we need increased security measures. We should become more vigilant to protect ourselves from possible threats or danger. As our technology continues to improve, law enforcement agencies are taking advantage and utilizing these security devices to keep the people safe.
With advanced license plate readers, high definition security cameras, drones and wide area surveillance, officers are able to do their jobs more efficiently. These devices allow them to better identify and apprehend criminals, resulting in safer communities.
License plate readers are often mounted on police cars, allowing officers to monitor drivers for safety. Because these license plate readers are more advanced than before, they can parse through the many plates that zoom by and cross reference them to a criminal database. It makes it easier to find wanted suspects, stolen vehicles, aids in amber alerts, and more. By enabling our officers to capture these criminals, we work toward building safe streets and communities.
High Definition (Facial Recognition)
Security cameras with high definition are becoming more common, and some are even equipped with facial recognition technology. This is obviously helpful in the sense that suspects can be more easily identified when attempting to elude law enforcement. These cameras can also pick up on suspicious activities and alert law enforcement accordingly. For our safety, it is better to be proactive than reactive.
Drones & Wide Area Surveillance
Drones have gained popularity in the commercial arena, however, they can serve an extremely beneficial purpose for security and law enforcement. Much like helicopters can offer an aerial view, drones work the same way, but because of their small size and advanced features, they can better track a suspect, making it harder for him or her to evade police. Wide-area surveillance offers a bigger picture, recording all movement within a given area for hours. When crimes are reported, footage can be reviewed to verify details and stories.
As these devices start to become more widely used in law enforcement, do you think crimes rates will begin to noticeably decline? We would love to hear from you. Share your thoughts with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.
SecurityCamExpert.com values your safety and security. That’s why when you shop with us, you can count on high quality security cameras and equipment. Shop our stock online or order over the phone at 1-888-203-6294. Our friendly staff is always happy to assist you.
Troubleshooting Tips For Your Security Camera Systems
Security camera systems are a great way to protect your family, home, business and property. You can monitor your security camera systems while you’re at home or away, providing you with a stronger sense of security and safety as you go about your day to day activities.
Security cameras can help catch burglars in the act, or even deter them from targeting you. But much like everyone, security cameras are not perfect. Issues may arise here and there, but these tips should help you troubleshoot some common problems.
Problem: No Picture Or Signal
When there is no picture or signal, you want to double check that everything is properly connected. Start by ensuring that the power adapter is plugged in and the outlet in which it is plugged is functioning correctly. If your security camera is plugged into a surge protector, be sure that the surge protector is, in fact, on. To check if your security camera is receiving power, locate the light sensor and cover it with your finger. If your camera is receiving power, this will activate the night vision and you should see the LEDs glow red. If your camera has an Auto Mechanical IR Cut Filter, you may hear a clicking noise. Next, you’ll want to see that the cables are properly connected to the TV or DVR. If you suspect an issue with the extension cable, switch the cable that is connected to the camera. This will help to determine whether or not there is an issue with the extension cable run.
If you have issues with picture or signal on your TV, be sure that the correct input channel has been selected. Common inputs include: Input, AV, Channel, Line 1, Line 2, AUX. If a DVR is involved, make sure everything is properly connected (the camera video cable should be connected to the Video Input/Video IN/Camera IN port) and the correct input is chosen. You may also try connecting the camera to a different channel. Also, double check that the channel does not have Covert Recording enabled. This feature will prevent the camera from being viewed locally.
Problem: Picture Is Too Bright/Dark
If the picture is too bright or dark, you are likely having issues with the light source. If it’s too bright, be sure that your camera is not directly pointed at a light source (e.g. sun, spotlight). You can adjust the angle, or, if your camera has a sunshade, adjust it to block some of the excess light. If your picture is too dark, you’ll want to angle your camera more toward a light source and/or adjust the sunshade to let more light in. You can also control the brightness and contrast settings on the device that your camera is connected to (e.g. DVR, TV, monitor). If you are still having problems, you may need to find a different location for your security camera.
Problem: Picture Is Not Clear
If your picture is not clear, you may need to clean your camera lens. Check for dust, spiderwebs, dirt, etc. Another possibility is that your extension cable runs may be too long; the distance maybe compromising the clarity. If you have a camera with a varifocal lens, you may need to refocus the lens by adjusting the focus and zoom settings. Periodic readjustment of varifocal lenses is common.
For all your security camera needs, visit SecurityCamExpert.com. Along with our excellent security equipment, we also offer free CCTV Camera System quotes, installation, and technical support. Learn more online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. We are always happy to help.
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Facial Recognition: The Newest Addition To Home Security
Debuted at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, the Netatmo Welcome camera is a new endeavor for the company. More prominently known for its weather station, this home security camera keeps you connected to your live feed for better home security.
What sets the Netatmo Welcome camera apart from the rest is its excellent features. You can stay connected through iOS, Android, or PC/MAC apps to remotely view your feed. The camera itself boasts 1080p, 130 degree field of view plus infrared LEDs enabling night vision, and, most impressively, facial recognition. More and more cameras are being equipped with facial recognition technology, but its entrance into the home security field is brilliant. You can track the in home activity of your family members and be alerted when an unrecognized person is in your home.
Of course, privacy concerns will always arise. The camera records all data on a local SD card rather than being uploaded to the Cloud, and the live stream “is secured by a bank-level encrypted connection.” And, with companion apps and accessories, you can choose how closely you monitor each person within your home, at what times, as well as determine which type of notifications you would like to receive. You can also monitor when doors or windows open or close.
A release date is yet to be determined. For now, we want to hear your thoughts on the Welcome camera. Do you like the idea of facial recognition and keeping tabs on the people within your home? Do you think this home security camera will be a hit when it becomes available? Share your thoughts with us on our social networks – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Let SecurityCamExpert.com help you find the right security cameras for you. Browse our stock online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294 to speak with a representative directly. Our offices are open Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm. We look forward to speaking with you!
New Year’s Traditions From Around The World
When you think of New Year’s, you likely think of the countdown to the ball drop at midnight, followed by a champagne toast and maybe a special kiss at midnight. While this is common and customary for folks who grew up or live in the United States, a look at New Year’s traditions around the world may make us scratch our heads. While these practices may seem taboo, most of the reasons behind them make sense.
Chile – Sleeping With The Dead
Though a fairly new tradition (said to have originated in 1995), this practice of sleeping in graveyards is common in the small town Talca, Chile. It is said that a family jumped the fence of a cemetery to celebrate New Year’s Eve with their deceased father. Since then, the practice has caught on and you’ll find many locals at the cemetery on the eve of the New Year. While the act may seem creepy in itself, the sentiment is sincere.
Denmark – Smashing Plates
Smashing plates doesn’t seem too out of the ordinary, but the significance is a bit confusing. People in Denmark smash plates against their neighbor’s doors, and those with the most broken plates on their doorstep are said to be the most popular. Quite an interesting way to show affection, if you ask us.
Romania – Talking To Animals / Bear Dancing
Romanians have two bizarre traditions. On New Year’s Eve, farmers in Romania often talk to their livestock in order to bring them good luck in the coming year. Elsewhere in Romania, some people dress up in bear costumes, or brightly colored clothing, and dance at various houses in order to ward off bad spirits and demons. These dancing bears may also earn tips for their community service.
Estonia – Eating Too Much
In Estonia, on New Year’s Eve, it is customary to consume a total of seven meals for that day. These seven meals are supposed to ensure abundance throughout the New Year. In the US, I think we call this Thanksgiving.
Panama – Burning Celebrity Effigies
Burning effigies, celebrity or not, seems like a crazy practice. But in Panama, the act of burning celebrity effigies is said to bring good luck for the New Year, so locals gather to celebrate on New Year’s Eve.
Scotland – Balls Of Fire
On New Year’s Eve in Scotland, you’ll find men walking around in their kilts swinging fireballs over their heads. This is part of their Hogmanay (last day of the year) celebration, and a somewhat dangerous way to celebrate. Please don’t try this at home.
South Africa – Throwing Furniture
This is a practice banned by law, yet some still partake in it. On New Year’s Eve, some people may throw their old furniture out of their windows. It is said to be a way of symbolizing “out with the old, in with the new.” Unsafe and illegal, it may be best to avoid this practice all together.
Siberia – Underwater Tree Planting
In Siberia, trees are planted in freezing cold water on New Year’s Eve. This is done as a sign of peace for the New Year. This should only be carried out by professional divers as obvious health and safety risks are present.
Peru – Beating Each Other Up
Though celebrated on Christmas Day rather than New Year’s Eve, this tradition is just as outrageous as the aforementioned. In Peru, the Takanakuy fighting festival is a way to settle conflicts from the year in a battle of fisticuffs. Men, women, and children participate in order to enter the New Year with a clean slate.
Have we missed anything? Let us know! Share your unique New Year’s traditions with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, or Pinterest!
At SecurityCamExpert.com, your safety is important to us. However you choose to celebrate the New Year, please do so responsibly. Enjoy a safe & Happy New Year! We’ll see you in 2015!
Let SecurityCamExpert.com Show Our Appreciation This Holiday Season
SecurityCamExpert.com is happy to offer you a sense of security and safety with every purchase. We’ve continued to grow and it is all thanks to you. This holiday season, we’d like to show our appreciation.
Starting on Monday, December 22, 2014, you can earn special bonuses when you shop with us. Receive a free $20 Target gift card when you spend $250 or more. Receive a free $50 Visa gift card when you spend $650 or more. For orders of $1000 or more, get a free Blu-Ray disc player! The more you spend, the more you receive!
This special promotion is based on web pricing only and may not be combined with any other offers. To receive the special, you must mention the promo when ordering (Online Orders – mention promo in Order Comments box). Gift cards and Blu-Ray players will be shipped within one week of purchase. This promotion is only valid from December 22, 2014-January 2, 2015. Act fast before we sell out!
Find a variety of excellent, affordable, and high quality security cameras, security camera systems, parts, accessories and more online at SecurityCamExpert.com. Know exactly what you want? Feel free to order over the phone – call 1-888-203-6294.
From the SecurityCamExpert.com family to yours – warmest wishes for holidays filled with joy, laughter, and love!