Home security has taken a turn for the better, and is no longer restricted to a standard home security alarm system, but has evolved to include video surveillance as well. More than ever, homeowners are concerned with general surveillance, crime prevention and family well being.
Today's cost-effective surveillance camera systems can provide homeowners with an increased sense of security and safety. In areas such as Arizona with large numbers of second homes, many homeowners utilize remote and online video monitoring for its enhanced level of security and property management.
The Basics of a Surveillance System
Cameras should be positioned for both interior and exterior viewing of critical points of access to optimize system effectiveness. Ideally, power and signal cabling is pre-wired during home construction, but quality installations in existing properties are available in wired or wireless device configuration. Video signals from the cameras can be sent to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) for storage and for remote access if desired.
While wireless cameras are sometimes an option, their use in a home environment is not always ideal. Interference may be caused by other wireless devices such as cell phones and routers. These devices emit their own RF noise that can cause a breakdown in the signal emitted by the camera, so hard wired installations should be used whenever possible.
Color cameras are highly recommended over black and white cameras. They can better capture an accurate color description of the focal area, such as persons or vehicles approaching the home. All cameras should be day/night adaptable and weatherproof for outdoor use.
Homeowners can become frustrated when there is a lack of light or low light at night that limits what can be viewed from their camera system. When working with low light conditions, there are two primary options when choosing camera configuration: Cameras with IR emitters or integrating the use of a flood lights with motion detection for the exterior of the home. A combination of both cameras and motion detector lights is the wisest choice for any home.
Recording Data and Camera Capabilities
Once the cameras are selected, it's time to consider how to record the data and what capabilities are important for the home and the application. VHS recorders have been replaced with digital recording devices. DVRs are capable of motion detected recording and integration with alarm systems, and are Internet accessible so security can be monitored from home.
It's important to do some research to ensure that you're purchasing a camera and DVR made by a reputable manufacturer. Selecting a reputable vendor will ensure available technical support if a problem occurs with the system. Often, paying a little bit more results in a higher quality product that has been developed over time and is less likely to be faulty.
Look for these specifications in a basic residential video system:
Color cameras with at least 420TVL of resolution and at least 0.5 LUX or lower
A Full-Chip 1/3" Sony Ex-View CCD or better lens
DVRs with 3-5 fps for residential surveillance
Making a Good Investment
When making this investment, it's important to evaluate the home and research the best cameras for day and night lighting conditions. Also, consider the intended use of the video system as a security and home management program. Just like a security alarm system, many homeowners are now sending the video feed to a central monitoring station where qualified personnel become an extension of a home's security system. Enlisting the care of a "virtual guard" to watch the premises is most critical when the homeowner is away.
Choosing to integrate a higher level of security technology into a home system is a significant commitment. The proper installation of a quality video surveillance system is a proactive approach to protecting the property and safety of a home. When in doubt, ask an expert to help steer you in the right direction.
China Security And Surveillance
According to a study done in 2005, 80% of all stolen property is stolen from a household. This means that homes are an attractive target to burglars. This also means that home security is a very important issue for homeowners.
Why are so many homes burglarized?
The reason so many homes are burglarized is because of ignorance. Homeowners often get a false sense of security and overlook certain safety features that they could improve in their home.
People who own homes rarely have professional home security installations and thieves know this. Most small companies and retail stores have security systems installed. Unfortunately, in the suburbs, many people are not as oriented to protecting their valuables, as they should be.
What can you do to prevent burglary?
One thing you can do to prevent burglary of your home is set up a home security surveillance system. With this system, you can install cameras and monitors that will help you see any potential threats, and can also record whatever may happens. This will serve as proof of an intrusion.
Another thing to do is to make sure that you always lock the windows and doors of your home when you are not there and when you are sleeping. Second story windows are a popular break in point, so they should not be overlooked.
Often, it is easy to see when a second story window is cracked and there is potential that someone may try to take advantage of this fact.
Trim back you hedges and trees. If you have a lot of dark places where people can sneak around, then they most likely will. When thinking about home security, it is important to think like a thief. Where would they hide? What could they use around your home to help them break in?
An often overlooked but very simple thing you can do that is very effective is install motion detecting lights. When they sense motion, these lights turn on and flood your backyard or doorstep with light.
No thief wants to be in the light. They want to skulk around in the darkness. A home security surveillance system is a great option for those who have large homes or extensive property, because a good system of closed circuit televisions and cameras will allow you to look over your property better and even record events that may transpire.
Every household is different and ever person has different home security needs. You just need to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your own place of residence, then move on from there.
Home security is all about being prepared. The more work you do to prepare yourself and your home, the better off you will be.
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