Choosing a video security system can be confusing. There are indoor and outdoor cameras, spy cameras and surveillance cameras, closed circuit cameras and PC based closed circuit systems, and various recording methods. Ordinarily, video security is part of a comprehensive home security system.
It is possible to purchase a video security system in almost any price range. But the clearest pictures, the most reliable recordings, and the most secure storage will cost more. Chances are that if you feel the need for video security, it will be worth the cost to get the best equipment.
What do you need to monitor and record? This is the first question to answer. Do you need exterior cameras or interior cameras? Perhaps you need both.
The next decisions about your video security system will determine the kind of cameras and lenses you will need. Cameras, often with interchangeable lenses, are available in a wide range of prices, styles, and types. Do you want a spy camera hidden in a clock? Do you want a surveillance camera that allows you to see who is at the door? Do you want your system hard-wired or wireless? Do you need fixed angles of vision, or do you want to be able to scan and move the lens?
The next choices will relate to your recording devices. Will you capture images and record them to a VCR, a DVR/DVD or directly to the hard drive of a PC? Will your cameras be equipped with technology that turns them on and off (perhaps if movement is detected), or will they record constantly.
In choosing indoor cameras for your video security system, you will again need to decide whether the cameras need to be hidden or visible. Should the lens rotate with movement in the room, or be stationary. These cameras can be remarkably small and they can be hidden almost anywhere in a room. If you are trying to ensure the safety of a loved one while in the care of another person, you might want to invest in the best camera and recording equipment you can afford.
Video security systems are complex. Particularly if you choose a hard-wired system, you will certainly want to get professional advice on creating the system, interfacing with the rest of your security system, and choosing the best equipment you can afford.
Then consult with a professional in choosing the system that is right for you. If your video security system will be part of a more comprehensive security system, you will certainly want to have it professionally installed. This might also be the case if you are installing exterior cameras. For a single spy camera, however " especially if the system is wireless " you might be able to handle installation on your own.
Todd Cavanaugh is the 10-year owner of Protech Security Systems, a video security system company. His company also specializes in home and business monitored security systems, fire alarm systems, access control systems and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. For more information, see his recommendations on video security systems.
Tags:
alarm system,
burglar alarm,
digital video security system,
home security,
home security system,
home video security system,
home video security systems,
security alarm,
security monitoring,
Security System,
security-systems,
video security system,
video security systems
September 01 2009 | security-systems | No Comments »
In a bad economy, when millions of people are out of work, crime rates increase dramatically. Crimes of opportunity increase the most. Robberies and home invasions are increasing, as testified every evening in the news. Protecting yourself from robbery and home invasion is why you need an intruder alarm.
Intruder alarms are becoming so popular that many builders throughout the country are wiring for security systems as part of new construction. Even in an apartment building or condo complex, you might need more than a deadbolt to feel safe and secure. A quick consultation with a security expert could help you decide if you need an intruder alarm.
Who Needs an Intruder Alarm?
If you live in a neighborhood where crime rates are high or are rising, you probably need an intruder alarm. If you are "elderly" or "disabled" you are among the groups of people who are considered relatively helpless and "easy prey." You should also have an intruder alarm. If you live alone or have children at home alone regularly, you should also have an intruder alarm. If you fit one of these groups, you should protect yourself because you could be targeted for a break-in.
Any home can be a target for any of a number of reasons. Unless you live in an unusually safe area, you will probably sleep better and your family will probably feel safer with an intruder alarm. The first step in protecting your family and your home is to understand how vulnerable you are. By consulting with a home security professional, you can get a very accurate assessment of your need for intruder alarms.
Consider Your Vulnerability
You can make an initial evaluation of your vulnerability before you make a purchase. This will help you be certain you are buying the right intruder alarm.
-- Do you leave your doors unlocked? How about in the day time?
-- Windows on the first floor of your home are not locked
-- Is there a wooded area or other good hiding place adjoining your property?
-- There is no light on some of your doors and windows at night
-- Do you often come home with packages, computers, etc. in your hands?
-- Do you walk from the street, driveway, carport or garage to the door?
-- There is tall shrubbery around back or side doors
-- If you shouted for help, would anyone hear you?
-- You have a lot of exterior patio doors and French doors
-- Someone could easily follow you or one of your children home
-- Do you keep large amounts of cash in your home?
-- Do people know you carry a lot of cash with you?
Intruder Alarms Fit Every Need
If these questions have pointed to risk of break-in, you will need to choose the right intruder alarm. Keep in mind that some intruder alarms are more appropriate for particular types of residences.
If you live in an apartment or condo (with a number of units in a single building) you might need only an alarm that makes a lot of noise. This type of intruder alarm can be purchased in a home improvement store and installed easily. If you live on the first few floors of the building, you might also want to install alarms on windows. These intruder alarms are often portable and can be taken from one apartment or condo to another. The goal is for the intruder alarm to make enough noise to rouse other people or a security guard. You can also choose a wireless model that will not require any special wiring.
If you live in a duplex or a single family home, you might want to consider something a little more sophisticated. For the home, there are several types of intruder alarms, often used in combination in an integrated system. There are alarms that notify you if a door is opened. Most issue a quiet beep if the intruder alarm system is deactivated " but it is enough to alert you. There alarms that notify you if a window is opened. Many of these also alert you with a quiet beep when the system is deactivated. There are also glass-break alarms that respond to the sound of the glass in a window or door being broken. And there are motion sensors that sound an intruder alarm if someone is moving about the house. All of these alarms have loud sirens designed to scare off intruders and alert your neighbors.
Intruder alarms are best connected to either monitoring companies or to the police department. This way you know help is on the way if your intruder alarm goes off. Your alarm system probably also will have a panic button you can use if necessary.
Whether you are a member of a particularly vulnerable group or you just want to know that your family is safe, intruder alarms can be a very good idea. Just evaluate your level of need before you make a purchase. Then, we suggest consulting a home security specialist. Then you can purchase the intruder alarms that make the most sense for your needs, your budget, and your safety.
Todd Cavanaugh owns Protech Security Systems. He has installed intruder alarm systems for ten years. Protech specializes in pre-wired and wireless monitored security systems, 24-hour surveillance cameras, access control systems and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Protech is among the intruder alarm Tucson companies recognized by the BBB as an Accredited Member.
Tags:
alarm system,
burglar alarm,
home security,
home security system,
intruder alarm,
intruder alarm system,
intruder alarm systems,
intruder alarms,
security alarm,
security monitoring,
Security System,
security-systems,
wireless intruder alarm,
wireless intruder alarms
August 31 2009 | security-systems | No Comments »