Your Source for Security Cameras & Other Security Equipment
Blink Wireless Security Camera
Security cameras systemsare an effective way to secure you home and property. They provide a sense of security by scaring potential burglars away or producing evidence to capture criminals. Unfortunately, assumed high costs and complicated installation of security camera systems often discourage people from employing them.
As an alternative, a new wave of convenient, cost-effective multi-purpose surveillance cameras are hitting the market. These offer a budget-friendly option, making it easier for individuals and families to implement security camera systems within their homes. Thanks to a Kickstarter campaign, the next big thing may be Blink, an inexpensive wireless security camera boasting unbelievable features.
Aside from its affordability, Blink is wireless, powered by a battery promising over a year of battery life. The device will even send a reminder alert when power is finally low. Thanks to these features, Blink is very low maintenance and can easily be transferred from different locations.
Blink is also equipped with HD video, motion detection, temperature sensor, night vision, and a built in microphone. The smart phone app instantly alerts you of motion, changes in temperature, and WiFi connection as well as live viewing of your camera feed. Over time and with the proper resources, Blink could possibly more forward into the home automation realm.
Future advancements are not out of the question, but as a new product, there are bound to be downfalls. An issue to address is protection. Blink can be mounted easily to a wall or placed on a shelf, but it lacks safeguards for tampering. Once spotted, a person can damage or destroy it. Also, Blink is only suited for indoor use, but an outdoor option may be available in the future.
Currently, Blink has exceeded its pledge goal of $200,000, proving that the demand for convenience, affordability and security is high. To some skeptics, however, all of these features rolled into one device may be too good to be true. What do you think? Will Blink live up to the hype and become the new security camera craze? We want to hear from you – find us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ or Pinterest.
If you’re looking for a more traditional security camera system or more specialized or specific features, visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com. Feel free to give us a call at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions or to place an order.
DIY Home Security Camera System
Ever wondered what you could do with your old cell phones and devices? Of course, if they’re in decent condition, you could make a profit by selling it. But what about those cracked screens or other physical damage? If the camera is working, you can turn those old devices into security camera systems.
If you have an old iPhone or iPad, with the help of an app called Presence, you can create a DIY home security camera system. Both devices are required to download the app, have uninterrupted WiFi connection and a power source. Using one as a camera and the other as a monitor, your home security system is at your fingertips.
If you’re looking for something simple and inexpensive, a DIY home security camera system may be right for you. You can use this system to easily check in on kids, pets, or elderly relatives without installing an elaborate, costly security camera system. The app already employs motion detection and two-way audio and video communication. As these apps advance, even more helpful features will be offered.
What are your thoughts on DIY home security camera systems? Have you tried it out or do you use a formal security camera system for your home or business? Share your thoughts and personal experiences with us. We’re on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and we have a new verified Google+ page.
If you would rather install an official security camera system, find affordable prices and great equipment at SecurityCamExpert.com. Have questions about our products? Give us a call at 1-888-203-6294, our staff is always ready and willing to help.
Security Drones Capture Up-Close View Of Fireworks Display
We hope everyone enjoyed a fun-filled and safe Fourth of July. Did you catch a public display or legally and safely light your own? Fireworks are a spectacular sight, especially against the backdrop of a dark night sky. Even more breathtaking is the up-close view that drones can achieve. A YouTube search can produce various drone footage of fireworks, but how safe is this practice? Is it time we enforce stricter guidelines on these privately owned devices?
Fireworks safety is a major issue, particularly around this time of year. Adding drones to the mix only heightens the danger. Drones can easily be purchased by inexperienced controllers who may not know how low or high to fly. When capturing footage of fireworks, flying too closely to the display can cause an avoidable accident which may lead to unnecessary injuries. Whether it’s an accidental collision in the air or simply a malfunction of some sort, there are many ways privately owned drones can come crashing down causing more problems below.
While these safety issues arise, use of drones around this time can also be helpful. A recent article stated that a drone caught footage of numerous private fireworks displays in areas where fireworks are prohibited. If the police were to employ drones during this time, with professional controllers, they could potentially catch users of illegal fireworks. This could help decrease fireworks accidents and increase safety among the public.
Share your thoughts on the topic. Are you impressed by the fireworks footage captured by the drones? Do you think better regulations are necessary for drone ownership and usage? Engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and Pinterest.
Choose SecurityCamExpert.com for excellent and affordable security surveillance cameras and security camera systems. Visit us online for a live chat or speak directly to our staff by calling 1-888-203-6294.
What You Need To Know About Network Video Recorders
Network video recorders, or NVRs, are built to support IP security cameras. NVRs and IP security cameras interact over the same IP network, allowing for wireless connection. For an upgraded, advanced security camera system, switching to IP security cameras and network video recorders is a smart choice.
You have two options when it comes to network video recorders. NVRs can be offered as software only to be installed on a computer dedicated to that system, or you can choose a standalone NVR, with the necessary components built in.
Software for PC-based NVRs may come free with the purchase of your IP security cameras, however, building a PC system dedicated to your security camera system can be costly. While you may use your home computer, having a PC strictly for use with your security camera system may be more secure. Less people will have access to it and risk for obtaining viruses or malware is significantly decreased. PC-based NVRs can be more versatile as upgrading either software or hardware can be easier. For more control over functions and expandability of your network video recorder, a PC-based NVR may suit you better.
Standalone network video recorders can be less complicated to install and use, as everything it needs is embedded within itself. Its compact and straightforward design is user friendly and space efficient. Standalone NVRs are built and optimized to perform specific functions. No other applications can interfere with its performance, greatly decreasing its likelihood of crashing or restarting. While its power consumption is far less than PC-based NVRs, they are limited when it comes to upgrading or expanding memory. If your security camera system is set and expansions are not on the horizon, a standalone NVR may be your best option.
While both types of systems have their advantages and disadvantages, overall, switching from an analog system to an IP system will benefit you in the long run. IP security cameras encode and process the video footage then stream the files to the NVR for viewing and storage. Improved picture quality, better reliability, and faster performance result in upgrading to an IP security camera system.
At SecurityCamExpert.com, we’ve updated our inventory of network video recorders and network IP security cameras. Check out our stock online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294 to speak directly with our friendly and helpful staff.
Learn How Social Media Can Strengthen Security Cameras Systems
Security surveillance cameras and surveillance systems in themselves offer a sense of security. Unfortunately, they don’t guarantee immunity from any crimes or burglaries. They can only offer potentially helpful footage for the case investigation.
The mere presence of security surveillance cameras themselves can prove beneficial to businesses in deterring bad behavior. For situations when this is not the case and crimes do occur, security surveillance camera footage can serve as evidence of the criminal act and aids in identification of suspects or key witnesses. Using social media to circulate these images or footage can help identify criminals faster.
Social media can reach great lengths in a short amount of time. In fact, a Facebook post of a still image from surveillance footage lead to the same day arrest of a robbery suspect. Authorities are catching on and utilizing surveillance footage in conjunction with social media to get the public’s help in finding potential suspects and witnesses. Not everyone watches the news so by sharing or retweeting these posts, a broader audience is reached, increasing visibility and the chance that the suspect will be identified and caught.
While social media can strengthen security cameras systems overall, the security surveillance cameras themselves should be of high quality and reliable. It’s important to invest in systems with features beneficial to your specific environment. Your options should be weighed depending on your needs and budget.
Let SecurityCamExpert.com help you find the security surveillance cameras suited for you. Browse our selection online or speak directly with our sales team via live chat or phone – 1-888-203-6294. We are always happy to help you find what you need and answer any questions you may have.
Unmanned Aerial Systems and Drones – A Coach’s New Best Friend?
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 Security Camera Systems: Aiming To Keep You Safe
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.
What You Need To Know About Body Worn Cameras for Police
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.
How Do Night Vision Cameras Work?
Using night vision security cameras within your security system can greatly benefit your safety. Night vision security cameras utilize infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce infrared light not visible to the naked eye. These IR LEDs illuminate low light or no light environments allowing cameras to capture footage under less than ideal circumstances. These cameras allow you to keep an eye on your property at all hours.
During the day, when ample light is available, the infrared security cameras record in full color. Once evening falls and light sources are diminished, the IR LEDs begin to work and the cameras record in black and white. Switching to black and white recording helps to preserve image quality, providing excellent footage around the clock.
Night vision and infrared LEDs are available with most security cameras styles. Choose the camera style based on where you’ll be placing your security cameras. For indoor settings, dome cameras or small bullet cameras may be best, so that they can blend into the décor. For outdoor settings, you’ll want to be sure that your security cameras are weatherproof and vandal proof, or purchase proper housing to protect your cameras. Long range bullet cameras or PTZ cameras may be a better choice for outdoor locations, depending on the area you would like to monitor. Whether installed indoors or outdoors, night vision is a helpful feature for your security cameras.
Not only are you enabling your security system to work 24/7, you are potentially helping to stop or solve crimes faster. Security cameras act as deterrents, but many may think the cameras don’t work in darkness. With night vision security cameras, you now have footage of an overnight crime that could potentially help identify and catch the criminal.
Rest a little easier at night by adding infrared or night vision security cameras to your overall security system. You can find a great selection at SecurityCamExpert.com. If you would like to speak to someone directly, please call us at 1-888-203-6294. We are more than willing to answer your questions and help you choose the right system and equipment for you.
IP vs Analog Security Cameras
The switch from an analog system to an IP camera system can be daunting to some people. Since analog systems have been around for some time, many people have grown familiar with the way they work. Learning how to use a whole new system can be difficult. While some may have an easy time converting to the new system, others may be faced with a challenge.
The problems posed with switching from an analog to IP camera system can be traced to the system going from hardware to more software. When you’re familiar with secure, physical connections, troubleshooting with IP networking equipment may be fairly difficult. For those accustomed to hardware, it’s harder to see or visualize the problems.
For an IP system, when coming across problems, the security team may not be able to troubleshoot on their own. Working with the IT team may be necessary. Personalities may clash simply because these teams are not used to working together, causing more issues to arise.
Larger scale roadblocks for upgrading can be cost and down time while switching out equipment. Purchasing a whole new system can be a hefty expense. Also, down time can leave your business vulnerable to threats. However, the benefits may outweigh these hardships.
These issues shouldn’t deter you from replacing your old system to an IP system. The best solution is to introduce IP security cameras and equipment slowly. The first step would be to invest in a hybrid video recorder. This will allow connection to both analog and IP security cameras. Integrating both types within your system will allow your expenses to be spread over time.
This will also allow users time to get familiar with the new equipment without abandoning the former system entirely. And with the new IP security cameras comes new, more advanced features, ultimately improving your security system’s performance. Aside from that, this eliminates down time for your company, keeping your business secure while integrating a new system.
Switching to a new system should not be feared. Following these simple tips can ease you into the new software and make the transition much smoother. You will end up with more confident employees and a more advanced system.
Find great IP security cameras, IP/Hybrid systems and more online at SecurityCamExpert.com. If you need help finding the right parts or have questions about security systems in general, give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.