Where do you place your security cameras? Is your security most needed inside your facility or outside on the perimeter? Are you most concerned about keeping an eye on your employees in terms of theft issues, or do you want to safeguard the outside of your building, and use the cameras as a deterrent from would-be criminals. In addition, maybe there are only certain times of the day or week where a security camera is necessary. These different scenarios may require a different type of camera, and depending on the number of sites to be surveilled, require a system that can handle multiple cameras efficiently.
Security cameras come in both a wired and wireless format. A wired system is difficult to move once mounted, but it can provide a more stable connection than a wireless one, whereas a wireless system has far more flexibility in where the camera can be placed, yet the signal could be disrupted at certain times.
Security cameras come in both black and white as well as color, and if cost is a major factor, the B/W format would often be the least expensive. However, if the system is to be used in a dark setting, additional lighting may be necessary at an additional expense if the camera quality is not sufficient.
If the camera(s) is to be used in a low light setting, purchasing a camera with infrared capabilities would be a solution. Some of these types of cameras come with a ‘night mode’ that switches automatically when necessary.
When you are deciding which type of security camera to buy, the most popular types of cameras are either a Dome or a Bullet camera. A Dome camera has certain advantages: it’s often difficult for someone looking at the camera to determine which way it is pointing, and the coverage of area is typically greater than for a bullet camera. On the other hand, a bullet camera is usually more cost effective, and its design can be a great crime deterrent. In addition, bullet cameras can also be equipped with infrared abilities, so they can be placed in low light areas.
How you communicate with your security camera or cameras is very important. If you simply want a camera to be visible to a possible intruder, to deter them from any criminal activity, that’s fine. However, if you want to see what is going on at your home or business while you’re away, and be able to control the camera as well, or communicate with the intruder possibly, then your camera needs to be linked to your cell phone and have the proper software. the expense will vary of course, but the satisfaction and comfort you’ll have is most often worth every penny spent. With the right system for your circumstance, it is a one time expense.
Allyn Boyd