Choosing a security camera system properly equipped to suit your needs is ever important. When choosing a system, you should understand your wants and needs before you proceed to shop. Here, we’ll break down some basics to get you started.
Placement
There are many factors to consider when it comes to placement. Which areas would you like to monitor? Whether the security camera will be used indoors or outdoors will dictate which type of camera you use. Security cameras are usually identified as indoor or outdoor cameras, with outdoor cameras being built a bit more sturdy and, likely, weatherproof and/or waterproof.
Wired vs. Wireless
Placement may also determine whether you choose wired or wireless cameras. Wired cameras usually provide a more secure, constant connection. The downfall is that a simple cut or disconnection of wire and equipment can take down your system. Also, depending on its location, wiring may not be feasible. Wireless cameras make it a bit simpler, allowing connection through a local network, and letting you install them virtually anywhere. Connection may be an issue, depending on the distance between cameras and servers. Luckily, as technology improves, this problem will likely be eliminated.
Lighting
The lighting in the environment you will be monitoring plays a vital role in determining which features will produce the best results. For an area in which lighting will be relatively ample and constant, most cameras will work beautifully. However, in dimly lit areas, or areas where the light source will be intermittently available, you’ll want to invest in cameras with day/night vision and possibly infrared LEDs for better night vision.
Fixed vs. PTZ
Another thing to consider is the question of a fixed or PTZ camera. Ultimately, this depends on how you would like to survey your grounds. Fixed cameras are set on a fixed area, needing manual adjustment to view other areas, whereas PTZ cameras afford a more flexible range. With PTZ cameras, you can remotely adjust the lens to move left and right (pan), up and down (tilt), and zoom in and out as needed.
Viewing
As far as recording and viewing goes, you’ll want to choose the appropriate DVR (digital video recorder) or NVR (network video recorder). If you want to monitor your feed at home or in an office, a DVR and CCTV monitor will do just fine. If, however, you would like to view your live feed from your smart phone while on the go, you’ll want to find a DVR or NVR which supports mobile viewing and your mobile device.
At SecurityCamExpert.com, we carry a wide variety of security cameras and camera systems to match different needs. Shop our selection online or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294. You can also connect with us on our social networks – Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.