You have likely encountered dome security cameras when out in public, whether you’re shopping at the store or visiting the bank. They are small, dome-shaped objects attached to ceilings or walls. The dome of the camera is usually heavily tinted, and they are often vandal proof, weather proof and have built-in infrared LEDs. If you are considering installing security cameras, here are a few reasons why dome cameras are a smart choice.
Visual Deterrent
Part of the allure of security cameras is that their presence is effective in deterring bad behavior. With dome cameras, they are inconspicuous enough to blend with décor, however, the heavy tint on the dome is relatively hard to miss. Whether or not an incident occurs, you will have video footage to review and potentially use as evidence.
Ambiguity
As mentioned, the heavily tinted dome not only protects the camera, but it makes people question which direction the camera is aimed. People may also be unsure of whether or not the camera moves to monitor a wider area. This ambiguity helps to further deter any criminal acts. Some may opt to install dummy dome cameras as a low-cost alternative. Remember that it is not guaranteed that a dome camera will prevent all criminal activity, thus, it is better to install a real dome security camera.
Variety
Of security cameras, dome cameras are relatively inexpensive and are available in a wide variety of styles. As mentioned, if you are installing your cameras outdoors, you may want to look for weather proof and vandal proof dome cameras. This will ensure that your cameras can withstand harsh environmental elements, as well as physical damage should someone attempt to tamper with your security cameras. And if you need around-the-clock surveillance, infrared dome cameras offer night vision, allowing your camera to record in low to no light situations.
If you need help choosing a dome camera, or other security cameras and equipment, please contact us at 888-203-6294. Browse our stock of quality surveillance systems and more online at SecurityCamExpert.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
When it comes to securing your property, CCTV cameras can be very effective. However, because there are a wide variety of CCTV cameras suited for different applications, if they are not properly implemented, their effectiveness may be compromised.
Before choosing your surveillance system, review the different types of CCTV cameras and the application for which they are best suited.
Different Types Of CCTV
Dome Camera
Bullet Camera
C-Mount Camera
Day/Night Camera
PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) Camera
What To Consider
Choosing the right CCTV camera for your property is important. You want to evaluate your needs to determine where you will place these cameras as well as their primary use in that location. Some factors to consider when choosing include the lens, sensor, and output resolution.
The lens will dictate the quality of the image. The appropriate lens will allow your camera to focus and bring in enough light to the sensor, providing clarity and the ability to better identify things such as faces and license plates. A zoom lens will allow for further detail since it can adjust the light as it reaches to sensor for enhanced pictures and flexibility.
There are two types of sensors:
CCD are more expensive than CMOS and produce clearer images (ideal for identifying faces and license plates).
Generally speaking, the more pixels, the better the picture. The highest resolution you can get is 700TL, but most cameras range between 300-550TVL. Be sure to match a resolution that your camera can produce because anything more is unnecessary.
Other Things To Consider:
Box cameras are easier to be seen and clearly tell passersby that they are being recorded, which acts as a great deterrent. Dome cameras, on the other hand, are smaller and more discreet, making them ideal for monitoring larger areas such as front or backyards.
Consider where you will place your cameras both indoors and outdoors. If you plan on placing them outdoors, you want to ensure they are in the best location and well protected (weatherproof and vandal proof housing). For indoor cameras, you want to make sure it will not be affected by things like grease or steam from the kitchen.
Whether indoors or outdoors, lighting will always change so it is advised that you test different camera models to see what works best with your lighting conditions. You also want to check for any reflections or backlighting during day or night.
This will depend on the size of the area you want to monitor. Thus, a camera situated in a small room need not be of high resolution. The resolution of your CCTV camera should reflect the landscape in order to provide effective images.
This depends on your personal preference (you should also look into the laws regarding audio recording if applicable). Some CCTV systems allow you to speak to the intruders, or you can have audio or alarms sound automatically when they reach a certain point. These tactics are meant to scare the intruders away before they can cause damage.
If you need help choosing the right CCTV surveillance system, call 888-203-6294 and we will be happy to help! You may also browse our selection online at SecurityCamExpert.com and connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Shopping for security camera systems may seem like a one-size-fits-all deal, but, unfortunately, it is not. Because there are a plethora of security camera types and surveillance features to be considered, it will take some time to decide. Evaluate your security needs, do some research and weigh your options. To make it easier, we will break down the different types, housing, and common features of security cameras.
Types
The following are the advantages and disadvantages of common security camera types.
For zoom capabilities, 32X is fairly common, although some higher end cameras may have a greater zoom range. While a greater zoom range is helpful when covering a large area, it is not always necessary.
However, there are some downfalls. Because PTZ cameras can adjust its viewing range, there are chances that they may miss something. Also, zoom decreases the size of the area being covered, and the camera can only be facing one direction at a time.
Unfortunately, these cameras are often oversold as a universal solution, despite the fact that very few rooms allow for an unobstructed view in all directions. In applications where this camera is necessary, it often does wonderfully. However, a standard fixed camera can be paired with a lens to give it a 120-degree to 140-degree view. Also, many rooms are better monitored with cameras in corners (which only require a 90-degree field of view).
Housing
Once you have chosen the camera type, housing will come into play.
All types of housing can be made to be vandal resistant, which is a step up from weather resistant. These types of housings are most commonly dome shaped and are designed to withstand unfriendly environments while still providing a usable image.
Features
The selection of features for your security cameras will depend on the application and your individual needs.
To demonstrate the differences in resolution, an old analog camera is about ¼ megapixel, an HDTV screen is just over 2 megapixels, and the highest resolution projected image in movie theaters (4K) is 8.8 megapixels.
While higher resolution cameras may be appealing, these do not respond as well as lower resolution cameras in low light situations. Thus, it is possible to buy more resolution than you need, unnecessarily increasing storage costs while decreasing performance.
There are also cameras with infrared illuminators, which provide their own light source to obtain better images in low light settings. As mentioned, in order to improve low light performance, you will need to sacrifice some resolution.
No matter what the application, there’s likely a perfect security solution thanks to the comprehensive options available. And while the selection process may seem overwhelming, we are here to help. Feel free to browse our CCTV surveillance systems online at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 to speak with a representative.
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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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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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A comprehensive security and alarm system for your home will help to keep you safe and give you peace of mind while you’re away. If you already have a home security system in place, it is likely that you are familiar with the different devices and security lingo. For those of you who are considering installing a security system, here are a few of the basics you should know about.
Control Panel
This is the component that communicates with all other devices in your system and also connects you to your alarm monitoring company. It is usually a touchpad in which you enter passcodes to arm and disarm your alarm, and is often considered the heart of your system. Some advanced systems enable voice control for the control panel.
Key Fob
Instead of the touchpad, a key fob allows you to arm and disarm your alarm upon exiting and before entering your home, similar to a remote car lock. These may be used at home or remotely. Depending on how many people are living with you or need access to your home, your provider should be able to accommodate the number of key fobs necessary.
Motion Sensors
These are often referred to as motion detectors and communicate with the control panel to let them know when there is movement. Motion sensors are installed on doors and windows, and when the sensors are touching it is noted as secure. If a door or window is opened while the system is on, the sensor is triggered and communicates the activity to the control panel.
Security Cameras
Keep a close eye on everything whether you’re home or away. There are various types of security cameras to suit your needs including Pan/Tilt/Zoom, dome, bullet, day & night vision, and more. In conjunction with a corresponding app, Internet Protocol (IP) cameras can record activity when detected and send you an alert along with footage.
Electric Door Locks
Have you ever been at work or out on the town and wondered whether you remembered to lock the door? Electronic door locks can let you rest easy. You can check your locks remotely, and some even allow you to lock and unlock them remotely via a smartphone app. That way if your kids forget their keys, or you absentmindedly left the door unlocked, you can easily fix the situation.
Panic Button or Pendant
This wearable device is a popular add-on that allows a direct connection with the monitoring company to alert them when help is needed. By pressing the panic button, the monitoring company can communicate with the user and send the necessary emergency personnel. For those who have elderly loved ones living alone, this is a smart device to invest in for them.
If you have any questions about security cameras or surveillance systems, please feel free to contact us at 888-203-6294 or visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our stock. You can also find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
The best home security cameras cover all your needs for a reasonable price. These home security cameras don’t necessarily need all the fancy features, but can if that’s what you prefer. Convenience, suitability and affordability are key factors.
When planning home security, depending on your intention, you may want to conceal your security cameras. In these cases, hidden cameras or nanny cams would be a better choice because they are often disguised as everyday household products. These can diminish your suspicions about a new nanny or be sure that your kids are behaving while you’re away. On the other hand, blatantly placing camera inside and outside your home may scare criminals away.
Night vision is another key factor in determining which security camera is best for your home security system. For indoor surveillance, controlled lighting makes it easier for a security camera to capture decent footage. For night vision capabilities, the IR distance does not need to be that far as the cameras will most likely be monitoring one room or an entrance. For outdoor cameras, a farther IR distance would work better since you’ll be monitoring a much wider area.
Aside from those factors, choosing between different styles of cameras may rely on what works best with your home. The bullet or dome styles of security cameras are the most common. For home security, these types work just fine and tend to be cost-effective. When deciding between wired or wireless camera systems, it’s wise to keep in mind that once the burglar finds the wires, your entire system can be easily compromised. Wireless systems are usually favored for that reason, as well as not having to bother with cables and the added costs.
Another factor can be whether or not you can control your system or access your live feed via Smart Phone. It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t own a smart phone and isn’t attached at the hip, so the ability to link it to your phone proves beneficial.
Wireless home alarm systems can be a great way to support your security camera system. Motion sensors and door alarms can give you a better sense of security. You can also be alerted immediately if anything is triggered while you’re away.
Find the security cameras and wireless home alarm systems online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. We’re happy to help you choose the right system for your needs.
Shopping on a budget for a security camera system? It doesn’t have to be that hard. Let SecurityCamExpert.com help you find smart solutions without breaking the bank.
Our selection of security cameras includes a variety of different styles with varying specifications. We carry security cameras starting as low as $20-$60 and reaching up to $250-$400 depending on specifications. You can pay for better quality and features, or you can get good quality for a decent price. It all depends on how much you can or are willing to spend.
For the most basic security system solutions, you can opt for dummy cameras. Our dummy cameras don’t exceed $30 so you can build a pseudo security system for cheap. Check out this SecurityMan Dummy Indoor Camera, it has a convincing look for a reasonable price.
If you want a functioning security system, dome security cameras and bullet security cameras are common types and low in price. Ours range from $40-$175, all dependent upon picture resolution, special features like night vision or audio components. Still, a great camera can be found for a cost-effective price. Our box cameras hover around the same range, but also require a separate purchase of camera lenses, which can add to overall cost.
As we move up the price ladder, our specialty security cameras like HD-SDI, high resolution, network IP and PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) start around $100 and go up from there. It should be understood that you are paying more for performance and abilities. These cameras offer much better picture and allow you to better manipulate your viewing range. License plate capture cameras have magnificent zoom abilities along with solid resolution, so they can start north of $200.
While SecurityCamExpert.com offers individual security cameras, we also offer great packaged deals which can significantly assist those on a tight budget. Our camera packages include the basics: DVR (with & without hard drives), cameras, cables and power supplies. Our 4 camera packages range from $249 up to $549, while our 8 camera packages range from $329 up to $567. Our 16 camera packages range from $836-915, but we also offer wireless camera bundles that start as low as $139 and up. Our 4 camera IP/hybrid camera package starts at $399 and you can add more cameras or accessories from there. You can explore our packages options here.
Shop our inventory online and you’ll find security cameras or systems that fit within your budget. Would you rather get a quote based on your needs? Fill out our Free CCTV System Quote and work with our staff to create a security system within your means. Feel free to call us at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions you may have.
Ever wonder why people use dummy cameras or fake security cameras? Do you think “If they’re going to spend money on dummy cameras, why not buy real ones?” There are varying opinions on fake security cameras. Some find dummy security cameras pointless, while others find that their dummy cameras deter crimes for a cheaper price.
Some people believe that since the dummy cameras don’t work, it is useless to purchase and install them. It is reasonable to believe that, and to each his own, however, studies have shown that the presence of security cameras can help to prevent crimes.
For those who desire some type of security but can only afford so much, dummy security cameras could be a great alternative. While employing a real security camera will allow you to actually monitor what is going on in and around your property, the mere presence can do a sufficient job.
The trick is to purchase a convincing fake security camera. The right dummy cameras won’t blatantly look like fake security cameras. Most dummy cameras are made to look fairly realistic, but some cameras possess dead giveaways. It is best to steer clear of these dummy security cameras.
The key to choosing the right dummy security cameras is to know what a real security camera looks like. You want the dummy security cameras to be seen, but you don’t want it to be too obvious. You want people to think you’re trying to be covert, as you would with a real security camera. Most security cameras are built to be somewhat elusive, and placement can help with that. Installing dummy cameras in traditional surveillance camera spots will make them more convincing. Ambiguity can elicit apprehension, which is why fake security cameras can be a wise investment.
As long as you are well-informed about your choice and installation of fake security cameras, dummy security cameras may actually work for you. While they don’t capture criminal acts, they can avert possible criminals. Shop our selection of dummy cameras online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
Dome security cameras have been in demand lately. This spike in sales and usage is most likely due to its compact design and cost-effective prices. But just because these cameras are affordable does not mean they skimp in the features department.
You can find dome cameras equipped with fantastic features for a reasonable price. PTZ (Pan, tilt, zoom) capabilities are common in dome cameras. This allows a single dome camera to reach a wide viewing range, possibly eliminating the need for multiple cameras in a given area. The zooming abilities can zero in on specific details which can be significant in identifying a culprit.
The inconspicuousness of the dome camera is often cited as a selling point. Truth is, nowadays, you know a dome camera when you see it. The tinted dome covering is a more optimal feature of the dome camera. While the actual camera is easy to spot, it is nearly impossible to tell which direction the lens is pointed. Furthermore, some dome cameras employ a tracking component, so a person could not suspect the camera is tracking his or her movements.
Due to varying light in different settings, dome cameras usually have infrared, low light or day/night vision to produce better pictures throughout the day and night. The IR irradiation distance depends on the camera so paying close attention to specifications is important.
Most dome cameras are vandal proof, adding built in security to your camera investment. If the environment permits, you may be able to install your dome camera out of reach to minimize the possibility of vandalism. However, in some areas, it is inevitable to place the dome camera on a wall or a low ceiling. The vandal proof, tinted dome then comes into play, protecting your camera from any possible damage or destruction from powerful blows.
Often referred to as the “eye in the sky,” dome cameras offer functionality in an appealing package. If you have any questions regarding dome cameras, please call us at 1-888-203-6294 and our staff will gladly assist you. You may also visit us at SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our inventory of dome cameras and more.
In need of a surveillance system but don’t know where to start? Here at SecurityCamExpert.com, you’ll find all the components you need for your surveillance system, from 4 channel DVRs to up to 32 channel DVRs, as well as various types of security cameras. Even better, we have CCTV system packages which include the essentials to get you started.
Our SCE 4 Channel Package with 4 cameras is perfect for smaller businesses or home use. This package includes a 4 channel DVR, 4 dome security cameras, a 250GB hard drive, a 5Amp power supply, 4 30ft. premade cables and a 4 split pigtail.
The SCE DVR-7004 EH.264 4 Channel Real-Time CIF DVR will work together with the 250GB hard drive to store all the data and footage you capture. Of many special features, this 4 channel DVR has digital zoom, which may be manipulated in both preview and playback. Mobile monitoring is also enabled, supported by iPhone, Windows Mobile, BlackBerry, Symbian and Android. This package provides flexible monitoring options allowing you a sense of security.
There are 4 600TVL CMOS dome security cameras included in this package (2 plastic and 2 vandal proof). While placement is under your discretion, these plastic and vandal proof options allow you to utilize your dome security cameras indoors and outdoors, should you choose too. The Plastic CMOS dome cameras possess 600TV Lines and 3.6mm board lenses. The Vandal Proof CMOS dome cameras have 600TV Lines and a 50ft. range. All 4 cameras are similar which will provide consistent quality monitoring for your business or property.
The 5Amp power supply, premade cables and 4 split pigtail will help you connect and power your security cameras and 4 channel DVR. The 4 premade cables should only be run along exterior walls while not exceeding 33ft (10m). SecurityCamExpert.com will cover installation so long as it is within a 25 mile radius of Pomona, CA 91767. We also include a 6 month warranty and a brief 15 minute training session with this package. Network configurations, however, are not included; we will provide you with all the port numbers and application names that are compatible.
For a complete, affordable package including dome security cameras, a 4 channel DVR and compatible parts and accessories, choose our SCE 4 Channel Package with 4 cameras. We also carry 8 camera and 16 camera packages.
To learn more about this package, or any other packages, call us at 1-888-203-6294 or visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse the selection.