Your Source for Security Cameras & Other Security Equipment
Troubleshooting Infrared Security Cameras
If you’re looking for surveillance around-the-clock, infrared night vision cameras are a smart choice. These security cameras enable you to monitor your business or property overnight, when light sources are minimal. Night vision cameras have infrared (IR) LEDs which emit their own source of light, but of course, nothing is perfect. When using infrared cameras, you may come across some of these common IR issues.
Foam Ring
Keep in mind that not every camera will have one, but most of them do. The foam ring helps to eliminate the reflection of the IR light on the glass. When the IR light reflects off the glass and back into the lens, it will wash out your footage, essentially rendering your camera useless. If your camera seems to be missing a foam ring, first make sure that your camera should in fact have one. If so, to eliminate the issue, replace the foam ring.
While the aforementioned situation is rather unlikely, having an improperly placed foam ring is far more common. If the foam ring is not flush with the IR board, or the base of the lens, it will produce a similar effect as a missing foam ring. To correct this, you will need to open your camera and reposition the foam ring accordingly.
Glass
Most security cameras come with a thin plastic protective film over the glass on the camera. It is in place to protect the camera, however, it should not be left on when the camera is in use. Once your camera is installed and you are satisfied with the placement and viewing angle, remember to remove and discard the film covering.
Another common issue with the glass is obstructions. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints on the glass can create infrared glare which interferes with the quality of your footage. Be sure to clean the glass routinely to ensure that your cameras are obstruction-free.
Infrared Glare
As mentioned, debris on the camera or glass reflection can cause IR glare, but there are other common causes. With outdoor cameras, you want to avoid aiming your camera at reflective services (ex. bodies of water, large lightly colored surfaces). For indoor cameras, be wary of the items or furniture around your camera as they may be close enough to reflect the IR LEDs. Despite all this, the most common cause of IR glare is improper installation. Cameras should be carefully mounted and tested in both day and low light conditions before the job is completed.
Infrared Reflection
Here are some of the common things that cause IR reflection:
- Your camera is indoors looking through a window. Because the IR will bounce off the window, IR cameras should not be mounted behind any glass.
- For cameras with a glass dome cover, be sure that all the IR LEDs are looking through the glass dome. If your camera is set improperly inside the glass cover, the IR light will bounce inside the camera and hit the image sensor.
- Remember to remove the plastic cover on the outside of the glass dome
Clean the glass dome with a damp microfiber cloth or windshield cleaner only. - If your camera is mounted too close to a wall, ceiling, or between two walls, the IR LEDs will be obstructed and will result in IR reflection.
Infrared Obstruction
As mentioned, when an object is too close to your IR camera, IR light will cause overexposure. In turn, to compensate, your camera will automatically dim the picture, reducing the IR intensity of your camera. Again, proper placement, installation, and testing will minimize these issues.
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Find a great selection of cost-effective infrared night vision cameras, CCTV surveillance packages and much more at SecurityCamExpert.com. Call 888-203-6294 to learn more about our products and services or to request a free quote!
Secure Your Home
When was the last time you evaluated your home security? With summer, and likely a vacation or two, around the corner, now is a great to time reassess your home security measures and upgrade or improve them as needed.
Doors
A surprising amount of burglars enter homes through the front door, so be sure that all of your doors (especially the front door) are strong and secure. Inspect the door frame, ensure the hinges are protected, and if your door has a mail slot, make sure someone can’t reach through and unlock the door.
To further safeguard your doors and entryways, you can install a deadbolt and/or add a strike plate. You can even upgrade to smart locks or install a doorbell camera. And if you have any sliding glass doors, remember to reinforce them by using a window bar or dowel in the track. Or you can invest in a door sensor or glass break sensor, which will alert you if the door is opened or tampered with.
Windows
Another common entry point for burglars is windows. And unfortunately, window latches and locks can be flimsy and rather ineffective. To better secure your windows, install improved locks or key-operated levers, or implement window bars. You can even reinforce the glass with window security film and install window or glass break sensors. In addition, you can plant prickly bushes under first-floor windows, but be sure to keep them trimmed.
Lighting & Landscape
Intruders want to be as inconspicuous as possible, so why not shine a light on them? Outdoor lighting can help to keep burglars at bay. Light up your yard (front and back) and pathways and place lights near the garage or other outdoor structures. Motion-activated lighting, solar-powered lights and timers can be helpful as well.
While the lights help to prevent burglars from hiding in the darkness, maintaining your landscape plays an important role, too. Be sure that trees and shrubs are trimmed down to eliminate any hiding spots. If there are trees near windows, remove them or add extra security to those windows. And remember to put away stools, ladders, and other tools and lock your gates and sheds.
Garage
An attached garage offers another way to access your house. But even if it is detached, burglars know there’s likely good stuff stored in there. You should always lock all doors to the garage, both interior and exterior. Consider keeping your garage door opener in the house. That way, a burglar can’t steal it from your car. You may even consider upgrading to a smart garage door opener, which alerts you when the door is opened or closed and enables you to control it remotely.
Wi-Fi Network
Securing your home wireless network is also an important part of your overall home security. To keep hackers off your home network, be sure to secure your wireless router and enable WPA (Wi-Fi protected Access) or WPA2 encryption. You should also rename and hide your network, use a firewall, install antivirus and anti-malware protection, and always create strong passwords and change them periodically.
Security System
These days, you can find a home security system that suits your needs and budget. Depending on your unique situation, you may consider DIY versus professional installation, along with the upfront and monthly costs, and the different features offered.
If they are not part of your security system, you may want to install security cameras outdoors, indoors, or both. Some features to look for include remote access, motion detection, night vision, and Wi-Fi capability. If you need assistance, you can visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call us at 888-203-6294.
Your security is our priority. Contact us to learn more about our products and installation services, site surveys, or to request a FREE quote! You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Upgrading Security Camera Systems
It’s about time to upgrade your analog cameras to HD-CVI or IP security cameras. By upgrading, you are equipping your home or business with more advanced surveillance solutions. These advanced cameras deliver top quality, with 720p or 1.3 Megapixel and up to 4K resolution. Worried about the compatibility with your current system and the new cameras? Luckily, there are products out there to aid in a smooth transition. And if you have any questions, you can always call SecurityCamExpert.com at 888-203-6294.
Here are some tips to help you ease into a better quality surveillance camera system.
Storage
If you are only upgrading a few cameras, hybrid and tribrid DVRs allow you to use new HD cameras with your existing equipment. However, higher resolution cameras will use more disk space.
If you want to maximize your storage space, you may want to consider is decreasing the frames per second at which you are currently recording. For example, if you are recording at 30 frames per second, you may scale that back to 15 frames per second. You will save storage space while still producing quality images.
In addition, if you are currently recording around the clock, you may want to switch it to motion-only. This setting allows your camera to remain in standby mode and only record when motion is detected.
Wireless Bridge
A wireless bridge is used when you want to install a camera in an area where it is impossible to run cables. It can be set up as a transmitter or a receiver. Each camera needs one transmitter, but the receiver can receive signals from multiple transmitters.
But remember, this will only work with network or IP cameras. And for most cameras, you will still need a power source.
Baluns
You may be hesitant to upgrade because wiring your system can be a costly hassle, however, baluns could be the easy and convenient answer.
Your existing cables depend on the type of security camera system you have. Most IP camera systems use CAT5 or CAT6, while traditional analog systems and HD-CVI systems run on cables more commonly known as Siamese cable (which is coaxial cable along with and 18/2 power wire).
A balun is a type of converter that you put on each end of your existing cable. Depending on the type, it will either allow you to convert CAT5 to an analog signal or use your analog cables with IP cameras.
DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name Service)
For remote access and viewing of your surveillance footage, you need to connect your system to your home or business IP address. Unfortunately, these are usually provided by your internet service provider (ISP) and they will often change this IP address, making it difficult for you to connect to your system.
The DDNS is a personal domain name (ex. “YourLastName.DDNS-service.com”) which will always resolve back to your home IP address regardless of what the IP address is, even after it has changed. Thankfully, a DDNS configuration is built-in most new security recorders, so when your home IP address changes it will contact the DDNS service and update it so that your domain name will always resolve back to your home or business.
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 to speak with one of our representatives directly. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Your security is our priority and we are always happy to help.
Security Camera: What NOT To Do
When it comes to security cameras, there are many mistakes that can compromise the effectiveness of your surveillance system. Don’t make these mistakes when installing your security cameras.
- Don’t use indoor security cameras outdoors.
Sounds like common sense, right? Indoor security cameras are tailored to indoor conditions, so using them outside would produce poor quality videos and images. And the same goes for outdoor cameras being used indoors – just don’t do it.
- Don’t mount security cameras in or near direct sunlight.
Direct sunlight can damage your camera overtime, decreasing its overall lifespan. In addition, it can wash out images, deeming your footage useless. Consider investing in outdoor housing that can protect your cameras and adjusting the angle of your camera so that the sunlight does not interfere with your images.
- Don’t place your camera in an area where it will be completely exposed to the weather.
You want to be wary of weather conditions when installing outdoor cameras. Be sure to check the IP ratings of the cameras and any additional housing you may invest in. And, if possible, install your outdoor cameras under the eaves for added protection.
- Don’t install surveillance cameras in areas that are not well lit at night.
That is, unless you have a night vision camera. Cameras without night vision or a comparable feature will not produce any usable images in the dark.
- Don’t install cameras without informing employees, neighbors, the public, or loved ones.
When recording, you must inform others that they are under surveillance. The easiest way is to install a well-designed sign in a high traffic area so that it is seen by everyone. Be sure to check with local laws and ensure you are in compliance with all laws before implementing your surveillance system.
- Don’t use substandard or weak mounting equipment.
If your mounting equipment is not as sturdy, you decrease performance and safety and leave your equipment vulnerable to tampering or theft. Also, it should go without saying, but please do NOT attach your cameras to the gutter.
- Don’t place cameras where there may be obstructions.
Again, this may sound like common sense but it must be said. While it may seem like there are no obstructions when you first install your cameras, sometimes natural elements can change that. For example, on a particularly windy day, a branch from a nearby tree may block your camera’s view. Be sure to consider all potential obstructions before settling on a location.
- Don’t leave wires exposed.
By doing so, you may invite others to hack, damage, or disable your camera system. In addition, exposed wires can pose a safety hazards for young children and adults.
- Don’t place your camera where it will be easily accessible or within reach.
Again, this makes it easier for intruders to hack, disable, or even steal your cameras. It helps to install your cameras high and out of reach, not only to prevent theft or vandalism, but to also get a better view of the area.
- Don’t merely place your camera viewing your front door.
Of course the front door is an important place to monitor, but really, you should be watching all potential points of entry (ex. sliding doors, basement doors, windows).
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Need help finding the right security system for you? Choose SecurityCamExpert.com! We can guide you through the process of choosing the security cameras that will best suit your needs. If you are in Southern California, we can even install the system for you. Visit us online or call 888-203-6294 to learn more.
Hiding Security Cameras
Despite the presence of security cameras being a visual deterrent for potential burglars, some home owners would rather conceal their surveillance system. When security cameras are present, intruders may often attempt to damage or disable them, so hiding them may help to keep them safe. Visible security cameras can also be an eyesore, and may make it a bit awkward when you have guests over.
However, if you’re going to conceal your security cameras, be sure to abide by the laws in your country and state. To be safe, you may want to consult with an attorney about legalities and the specific ways you plan to use your hidden cameras.
Here are some clever ways you can hide your security cameras.
- Plants
Whether real or fake, hiding a camera in a potted plant is a great idea. Plants are a great way to liven up a room and not many would suspect to find a camera hiding there. Just be sure that the view is not obstructed by leaves or other parts of the plant. - Bookshelf
Not many burglars dart to the bookshelf when breaking and entering. You can place a small camera in a section that is rarely accessed, or even toward the top shelf for a better viewing angle. - Birdhouse
For outdoor security, you can hide a security camera in a birdhouse. Because there is often a restricted view with this, be sure to aim the birdhouse at the area you wish to monitor. - Box Of Tissues
Many of us keep tissue boxes around the house so why not hide cameras in there? You can make necessary holes in the box to hide the camera, and position as many as necessary around the home. - Plush Toy
This is a popular choice for nanny cams as you often find plush toys in the child’s bedroom or play rooms. Some hidden cameras are sold as plush toys, or you can do-it-yourself at home. Simply cut a small hole in the back of the toy, position the camera inside the head with the lens aligned with one of the eyes, support the camera with the stuffing and sew up the hole.
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For the best selection of indoor and outdoor security cameras and surveillance equipment, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com. Aside from our surveillance systems, we also offer installations services, site surveys, and free quotes – call 888-203-6294 to speak with one of our experts today!
Video Surveillance For Businesses
Installing a video surveillance system for your business protects your employees, customers, inventory, and your business itself. Understandably, such an important asset can take a considerable amount of time and money when it comes to shopping, deciding, installing and implementing a comprehensive security solution. If you’re on the fence on whether or not to purchase and install a video surveillance system for your business, review some of these priceless benefits you can enjoy.
- Reduce & Prevent Theft
Strategically placed security cameras can prevent vandalism and theft. Year after year, companies lose thousands due to theft, whether internal or external. By installing surveillance videos, you can deter bad behavior or collect evidence when needed. - Real-Time Monitoring
Most modern cameras allow for remote video monitoring. This can be extremely helpful for business owners who are not always on site. In addition, approved employees can monitor critical areas of the property, enabling continuous surveillance. If you have multiple locations, you can connect all the cameras to the same network, allowing you to keep an eye on every location remotely. - Improve Productivity
The presence of security cameras can influence employees to be efficient and on their best behavior. The cameras can also improve communication between different locations and departments, which can boost productivity overall. - Resolve Business Disputes
Much like cameras can provide evidence for thefts or vandalism, video footage can prove valuable when a dispute arises as well. Managers can reference video footage along with firsthand accounts to find out what happened in order to come to a fair resolution. Security cameras can also play a role in reducing workplace violence. - Provide Evidence For Investigations
As mentioned, video surveillance footage can provide evidence when an incident occurs. By reviewing the footage when criminal or suspicious activity occurs, you can potentially identify the persons involved. And you may submit footage to authorities as needed. - Make Digital Storage
In relation to reviewing footage, digital storage makes it much easier to search and find footage when needed. IP camera systems store all recorded footage digitally using a hard drive, network served or an NVR (network video recorder). - Improve Customer Experience
With the use of data analytics with your surveillance, businesses can optimize store traffic patterns and improve product placement. They can also offer a better shopping experience as customers may perceive the presence of security cameras as the business caring for the safety and security of their customers and employees. - Save Money
Video surveillance systems can be more affordable than hiring full-time security officers for the grounds. And thanks to advanced night vision features, most security cameras can give you peace of mind even when your business is unoccupied overnight.
Whether for your business or home, shopping for a security camera system can be overwhelming. If budget is a concern, or you are unsure of what you need, we can help. Call 888-203-6294 and we can guide you to the cameras and equipment that would best suit your needs and budget. We offer a wide variety of affordable security cameras and surveillance systems – browse our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Choosing The Best Nanny Cam
Nanny cams help worried parents keep an eye on their kids or their own elderly parents. They allow individuals to check in at home for peace of mind. Whether you will be installing them in hidden areas or in plain sight, here are a few things you should consider when purchasing a nanny cam.
- High Definition (HD)
This is a video format which delivers a high pixel rate for improved clarity. While this is a great feature to have, it does increase the price and requires more storage. Think about your storage requirements, budget, and individual needs before making a decision. - Audio
Nanny cams with audio let you speak to the persons in the room remotely. Before choosing a camera with two-way audio features, please look into legalities and follow the audio recording laws when you need to record audio. - Wireless
Wireless security cameras allow you to watch live video feeds rather than recording for later review. You may want to opt for wireless cameras if you will be using them for a baby monitoring system. - Compatibility
For remote monitoring, you want to be sure that your nanny cams are compatible with your smartphone or devices. That way, you can easily check in on your kid or parent and caregivers while you’re away. - Motion Activation
Because monitoring our surveillance feed 24/7 is not feasible, motion-activated alerts are a great asset. Motion activation immediately sends you alerts when motion is detected in the range of view. - Recording
While most nanny cams allow video recording on a SD card, this limits your storage capacity. For improved storage and reliability, choose a nanny cam with a network video recorder (NVR) or cloud storage. - Viewing Angle
Choosing a wide-angle nanny camera will depend on the size of the room or area you would like to cover. If you do have a large space to monitor, be sure that your security camera has a pan-tilt function. - Power Source
Typically, you can choose between battery-powered or AC power nanny cams. Battery-powered nanny cams use rechargeable battery packs, while AC powered cameras are powered directly from the outlet. Your decision may be dependent upon where you plan on placing your nanny cam. If no outlet is available in the area, you may need to use a battery-powered nanny cam. Be sure to look into battery life and invest in a backup battery should you go that route. If you need ongoing monitoring and recording, you may want to consider AC powered nanny cams.
If you need assistance choosing a nanny cam or home security cameras, please do not hesitate to call 888-203-6294 to speak with us. You may also browse our stock online at SecurityCamExpert.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Safeguard Your Property
Spring is almost here! With warmer weather on the horizon, many of us may have vacations or weekend getaways planned. Before you leave your house unattended, make sure you’re doing your best to keep your home secure. Here are some helpful home security tips to safeguard your home and property.
Maintain Landscape
Your landscape can be an asset or a weakness to your home security, depending on how you utilize it. To protect your property, you want to limit the potential hiding places that your shrubbery can provide. Consider planting thorny bushes under your windows and be sure to keep them trimmed. You may also want to install motion-activated lights along your landscape to further discourage intruders.
Deter Porch Pirates
While online shopping is convenient, it leaves you susceptible to porch pirates. If you’re having packages delivered to your doorstep, work with the delivery companies to improve security. You can request a text when a delivery is made, require a signature upon delivery, or ask for packages to be left in a less prominent location. Another way to deter package theft is to install security cameras at your front door and around your home to monitor activity.
Hide Valuables
You don’t want anyone passing by your street to be able to see all of your valuables. Instead, arrange your furnishings in a way that they are less visible from the street-side window. Also, keep your garage openers and car keys out of sight from any window. Store these in a cabinet or drawer to keep them hidden.
Reinforce Entry Points
You want to be sure that any point of entry, whether window or door, has the proper protection. Exterior doors should be metal or solid wood and at least 1 ¾ inches thick. Protect your windows with locks or burglar-resistant glass, and reinforce sliding doors with a metal bar. A security alarm can also be beneficial by alerting you when a door or window opens as well as alerting authorities when your system is breached.
Practice Safe Behaviors
Personal habits can play an important role in your home security. Make it a habit to lock your doors and windows and arm the security alarm system whenever you leave. If you’ll be gone for more than a few days or on an extended vacation, you should make it look as if your home is occupied. Leave blinds as they would be usually, plan to defer your mail and other deliveries, and use light timers and smart home devices in different areas of your home. Bonus tip: If you are leaving your keys with a parking attendant, remove your house keys – tech-savvy thieves can duplicate your house keys by simply taking a picture of it.
Share your own home security tips with us and your peers on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Browse our wide selection of CCTV security cameras, video surveillance systems and more at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 today!
Choosing The Best Battery-Powered Wireless Security Cameras
When it comes to security cameras, wireless seems to be the easiest and most convenient option. While some wireless security cameras are not always completely wire-free (most still need to be connected to a power source), battery-powered wireless security cameras are making it much easier to build a completely wireless security system. Here’s what you should look for when it comes to battery-powered wireless security cameras.
- High Definition & Clear Quality
This is a must for any security camera, regardless of the type. Consider what you want to monitor and look for specifications and features that will satisfy your requirements. - Night Vision
Whether indoors or outdoors, if you want your surveillance around the clock, look for a battery-powered wireless camera that provides quality night vision. With these cameras, you should know that there are two types of night vision functions: infrared and starlight.Infrared is the most common and allows cameras to capture a clear vision in darkness thanks to IR LEDs built in around the camera lens. Starlight night vision has yet to gain popularity, but makes the most out of natural light to provide a crisper image than infrared.
- Wireless Capability, Wi-Fi Range, & Internet
Because battery-powered wireless security cameras are not tied down by a power source, you must really take the internet connection and Wi-Fi range into consideration when choosing locations. If you place your cameras in areas where there is spotty connection, your footage and overall security system could be compromised. Also, you must consider how many cameras you will be installing and whether or not your internet connection can handle it. - Durability
This is especially important if you will be installing your cameras outdoors. You want to choose security cameras that are strong and durable to withstand harsh weather conditions as well as normal wear and tear over time. For outdoor cameras, look for IP66 or IP67 weatherproofing casing as these ratings provide effective protection. IP stands for Ingress Protection, and this rating is the rate of effectiveness of the enclosure of the camera against dust and water. The numbers rate the protection against dust and dirt (first) and the protection against water and moisture (second) – the higher the number, the better the protection. - Battery Life
Fairly obvious, but battery life should be taken into consideration because without the battery, you have no functioning camera. Most of the cameras on the market today boast 6 months to 1 year of battery life. And most cameras deliver just that, while others do not. Be sure to pay attention to reviews and specs to ensure that you are getting what you pay for. But also, it is important to have backup batteries on standby.
What else do you look for in battery-powered security cameras? Share with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Find a great selection of security cameras, CCTV surveillance packages, and more when you visit SecurityCamExpert.com. Call 888-203-6294 to request a free quote or schedule a site survey today!
Restaurant Security: Night Vision Cameras
Night vision cameras offer a bit more than standard security cameras. The ability to see in low light to near darkness enables surveillance around the clock. While you may understand how this can help you feel safer at home, many businesses can also take advantage of these benefits. Here are some of the ways night vision cameras can be a great asset for restaurants.
- Vision In Darkness
Aside from keeping an eye on the premises overnight, night vision cameras can do their duty during late night business hours. If customers are staying late, it can help make the closing staff feel safer. - Easy To Install & Use
Most night vision cameras are fairly straightforward with their design, some being plug-and-play, making them easy to install and use. - Central Monitoring
Depending on your system, you should have access to any camera feed at any location at all times. If your system permits, this may even be accessible remotely via your smart device or a laptop. - Transferrable Feed
Your recordings can immediately transferred to disk for long term storage. This backup allows you to review past video or share footage promptly should authorities require video evidence of an incident. - Prevent Theft
The simple presence of a security camera can deter burglars from acting. However, in a restaurant setting, these things can easily be overlooked. With surveillance cameras, you may be able to improve inventory control and prevent employee theft. - Prevent Over-Pouring
Along the same lines, if you have a bar in your restaurant, you can keep an eye on your bartenders. Over-pouring is way to lure customers to leave larger tips, but can leave you at a loss. If you come across this issue, you can refer to your footage and correct the problem. - Reduce Violence
Whether among customer, employees, or both, security cameras can help to reduce violence or provide helpful evidence when a problem arises.Night vision cameras can also make your employees feel safe, as mentioned. Employees are happier with employers who show that they care about their safety and well-being. - Boost Productivity
Security cameras in the workplace can alleviate management from the task of security as well as motivate employees and keep everyone on task.
For a wide selection of night vision cameras, surveillance system packages, and more, please visit SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.