Surveillance systems installed at your home or business help to enhance your security by allowing you to keep any eye on your property. They can aid in keeping your loved ones safe, as well as potentially deter criminals from targeting you. And after installation, there are ways to make the most of your surveillance system. Review these tricks to enhance your security.
Security cameras have different features, so it is important that you choose one that suits your needs. It is also imperative that you learn what your surveillance cameras can do by reading manuals and watching tutorials as necessary.
Most surveillance systems have an accompanying app which allows you to access your feed and manage your system remotely, as well as provide alerts. Without it, you miss out on these great opportunities to enhance your security.
When motion or suspicious activity is detected, you will be notified via e-mail which may be accompanied by video footage.
For even faster access, sign up for text alerts. You’ll get essentially the same alert you would via e-mail, but in a text.
As mentioned, it is important to choose cameras with the right features and functions that will cater to your specific surveillance needs. For example, night vision cameras are great for areas that need around the clock monitoring, and day/night cameras are great for outdoor use where lighting can vary. There are a multitude of security cameras on the market with a variety of features so you are sure to find the ones that suit your needs.
Indoor security cameras can give you peace of mind when it comes to pets and older children who may be home alone.
If you want to record but don’t want the recordings to be visible remotely, you can turn on privacy mode.
Rather than setting your security camera on motion detection only, you can set the times you want your system to record. You can watch the footage in real-time or at a later date, either on the web or your mobile device.
As mentioned, you can manage your camera system remotely via an app installed on a PC or smart device.
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If you need helping choosing a new security camera system for your home or business, please feel free to contact us! You can browse our stock online or give us a call 888-203-6294 to speak with one of our representatives directly. Your security is our priority and we are always happy to help.
Whether you are looking to upgrade your analog security cameras, or you are shopping for a new security system, it’s important to know the differences between analog and IP cameras to determine which type will best suit your needs. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of cameras – be sure to review these before making a final decision.
Advantages of Analog Cameras
Disadvantages Of Analog Cameras
Advantages of IP Cameras
Disadvantages Of IP Cameras
From Analog To IP
If you are making the switch from analog to IP, here are some helpful tips.
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If you need help choosing IP security cameras, or would like to request a site survey or free quote, please call us at 888-203-6294. You can also browse our stock of quality security cameras online at SecurityCamExpert.com.
What are cloud cameras and why should you invest in them?
A cloud-based security camera, or cloud camera, is a security camera that is closely related to the IP camera. Both cloud and IP cameras connect to the internet, however, with cloud cameras, you need not assign IP addresses to each camera. Cloud cameras make it simple – all they need is a power cord and an Ethernet cable and you’re set. Cloud cameras will come with software or an app that enables streaming and remote camera management via smart device or computer.
On the upside, cloud cameras offer excellent benefits for users. First of all, these cameras are extremely easy to set up as they essentially plug-and-play. They are compact, affordable and accessible.
Cloud-based cameras also allow you to access your video feed virtually anytime from any place. While IP cameras can also provide this benefit, they require a bit more extensive set up to ensure proper performance and security.
In addition, cloud cameras boast automatic updates, device software improvements, and security vulnerability patching. Maintaining any additional hardware and software is no longer a worry.
With these advantages come some disadvantages. Cloud cameras come with monthly fees and limited functionality depending on how much you are willing to pay. And your provider may raise prices at any time, thus you must pay the higher price or purchase a different camera.
Privacy concerns and security risks are another factor, as your video feed is available on an external server. Also, because your cloud camera will be constantly sending data over the internet, it can slow down connection for other internet activities. For those in areas with slow service or data caps, cloud cameras may not be a feasible option.
The important thing to remember is that there are numerous security cameras with different features on the market. You should evaluate your needs and research different types of cameras to determine which type is right for you. If you need some help or have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 888-203-6294. You can also browse our selection of top quality security cameras at cost-effective prices online at SecurityCamExpert.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Security cameras with night vision are crucial for monitoring your property around the clock. Night vision technology allows you to capture usable images in low to no light conditions. This is extremely helpful as most burglars prefer to lurk around in the darkness.
Whether you are safeguarding your home or business, night vision security cameras are a great investment. Before you start shopping, review the different types of night vision to decide which will work best for your surveillance needs.
Low Light Night Vision
Low light night vision is also known as image intensification as it relies on image intensification technology to deliver colored night vision in very low light. Please note that in order to produce a color image, these security cameras need some available light.
Low light night vision cameras use an image intensifier which is a vacuum-tube based device. Electrons are emitted through a vacuum tube when the light strikes a charged photocathode plate. These electrons then strike the microchannel plate that cause the image screen to illuminate with a picture in the same pattern as the light that strikes the photocathode (on a frequency that the human eye can see). The image is said to be “intensified” because the output visible light is now brighter than the incoming light.
Benefits
Infrared (IR) Night Vision
These days, most security cameras come with built-in infrared LEDs to provide night vision in low light or no light conditions. One of the most important features of these cameras is the infrared cut filter or infrared cut removable.
The IR cut filter is a mechanical shutter design – it is a piece placed between the lens and the image sensor, controlled by a motor or an electromagnet. These are used with color CCD or CMOS cameras to produce accurate color images.
When IR cut filter is activated, it will block IR light and allow only visible light to pass through. When the ICR is turned off, IR light will be allowed and images will turn into black and white mode.
If it’s controlled by a light sensor, at twilight, it simply sends a remove signal to the IR cut filter so that more light could reach the image sensor of the camera, thus, a black and white image is produced.
It is important to know that IR security cameras can be affected by glass reflection or window glare at night. Your video may be washed out due to overexposure of lights at night. If necessary, turn off the IP LEDs and any other LED indicators on your security camera.
Benefits
Thermal Night Vision
Thermal night vision cameras have a unique lens that allows IR energy to pass through it. The focus light then hits a sensor that scans the information and draws from several thousand points in the field of view. This process creates a thermogram (an intricate temperature pattern) which quickly develops and then transforms into electric impulses, which are directed to signal processing unit that translates the information into data for the visual.
Created image displays as various colors that correlate to the amount of IR energy emitted. Instead of intensifying light, thermal night vision uses heat and can see no matter the light level. Thus, even in total darkness and poor weather conditions, thermal imaging technology allows users to detect and see at great distances.
Benefits
For a wide selection of quality security cameras, surveillance system packages, and more, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Video surveillance is a great asset for businesses, keeping properties, inventory, and employees safe. Should anything happen, security cameras provide video footage and evidence to help capture suspects. And while your surveillance systems are meant to secure your business, you must also protect and maintain your system to ensure optimal performance. Here are some smart business surveillance tips.
Secure Your Surveillance System From Hackers
Many business surveillance systems utilize IP security cameras, which require Internet connection to allow you to view your feed remotely. Unfortunately, this makes IP surveillance systems susceptible to hackers. Thankfully, there are ways to keep them at bay:
Avoid Video Surveillance Legal Liabilities
As long as you inform employees and customers that they are being recorded, as well as refrain from monitoring areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy, your security system should be free from legal liabilities. Here are the areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy:
Remember, the laws vary from state to state. Be sure you fully understand the laws regarding video surveillance, do not invade customer and employee privacy, and review the camera privacy laws in your state.
Strategically Place Cameras
Security cameras locations are crucial for complying with laws, as well as the effectiveness of your system. Be sure your camera locations meet these requirements:
Store Video Footage In The Cloud
Cloud storage solutions offer excellent benefits and are a great alternative to traditional analog systems. You may consider employing cloud solutions as they are:
Increase Business Security With Additional Camera Features
Additional features can help to enhance your surveillance system overall. Some additional benefits include:
We offer a wide variety of affordable security cameras and surveillance systems – browse our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 to speak with one of our experts. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Summer is here and many of us are planning and going on vacations, leaving homes unoccupied and prime targets for burglars. Don’t be a victim – be sure your home is protected whether you are work or away on a trip. Here are a few simple ways to keep your home safe this summer and year-round.
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Installing a home surveillance system can be rewarding, providing you a sense of security and peace of mind. However, the process of choosing, installing and using the right cameras is a delicate task. It’s important to evaluate your needs, understand what features will help you accomplish your goals, and execute installation and use correctly. Avoid errors in the process by reviewing these common security camera mistakes.
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SecurityCamExpert.com offers quality surveillance equipment along with expert installation! Visit us online to browse our stock or call 888-203-6294 to request a FREE quote or schedule a site survey.
Security cameras offer home and business owners peace of mind by allowing vigilance over properties. As a homeowner, installing an indoor security camera can help you check in on pets or simply watch over your home while you’re away. Although these benefits are appealing, there are a few things to consider before deciding on installing indoor security cameras.
Worries
It’s true that security cameras are meant to put your worries at ease, but at the same time, they can feed your anxiety. Because you can check in on things at any time, you may find yourself obsessively monitoring your feed.
To minimize this, set up a camera with motion detection so that it may alert you when there is activity. If you have pets, you can filter out their activity so that you are not inundated with false alarms.
Hackers
With internet-connected security cameras, you run the risk of hackers gaining access to your camera. This type of attack is much more common with cameras that have little to no built-in security. Luckily, there are ways to combat these risks. First, you should invest in well-know, higher quality security cameras that have better built-in security. Once you have chosen a camera, change any default logins and use strong, hard-to guess passwords. Also, be sure that your home Wi-Fi network is also highly protected.
Pets
As previously mentioned, indoor security cameras provide an easy way to keep an eye on your pets when you’re away. But when it comes to motion detection, they can easily trigger false alarms. Once you adjust your settings to accommodate pet activity, the security camera can be a great help. Whether you’re missing your pet while you’re away or if you’re working at home, security cameras allow you to see what they are up to.
Valuables
Of course, security cameras are meant to keep you safe from burglars. Their presence alone can help to deter criminal behavior. But in the case that it does not, it can provide useful footage that can be submitted as evidence.
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For a great selection of quality IP and HD security cameras for your home or business, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 today!
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.
Nanny cams can give parents peace of mind when they’re away from home. They can be hidden or installed in plain sight to monitor the nanny and children’s activities and behaviors. While some see as it as helpful, others may see it as an invasion of privacy or an uncomfortable situation.
Of course, there are rules and regulations in place to combat these issues. Recording a video of anything that happens in your home is legal, however, you must have a legitimate reason for doing it. Monitoring your baby or caregiver falls into that category, but regardless of whether the surveillance camera is hidden or not, they must be located in public areas of the house such as the kitchen or living room. Video recording in areas where there is an expectation of privacy (such as the bathroom or your bedroom) is not permitted.
When it comes to audio recording, you must inform and get the consent of the person being recorded. Because of this, often times nanny cams do not record audio. If you do record a video with audio that has evidence of abuse, the footage would be inadmissible in court and you could be liable for breaking privacy laws.
With that said, if used appropriately and within legal limitations, nanny cams can be a useful tool for parents. If you are considering installing a nanny cam, here are some of the pros and cons.
Pros
Cons
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Need help choosing the right nanny cam or surveillance system for you? Contact us at 888-203-6294 and we will be happy to discuss your options. You may also browse our stock of IP security cameras and other surveillance equipment online at SecurityCamExpert.com.