How Internet CCTV Can Protect Your Valuables

Posted on August 20, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Surveillance cameras are a rising trend all over America. They can offer security around the clock for your home and business. The mere sight of a security camera is enough to deter crimes. When that doesn’t work, then catching the criminal on tape can help police apprehend the crook.

Usually, audio and video feed from your surveillance cameras are viewable via your monitor or screen. You can even record the feeds daily. However, there are times when you have to travel or leave the store, like when you’re going home, and you can no longer monitor surveillance.

Internet CCTV allows you to view your surveillance feeds in remote locations. For example, when you leave your home to work, you can check your house once in a while by accessing your residential surveillance cameras using the internet. Internet CCTV can provide you peace of mind to know your home or office is fine by giving you the ability to check up on things wherever you are in the world, so long as you have an internet connection. You can even be on a vacation in Thailand and you can still check up on your home.

So how is it possible that you can provide a private access of your surveillance cameras via the internet?

IP cameras and older analog/digital cameras can both gain access to the internet so you can view their feeds anywhere.

Let’s discuss how analog/digital cameras can transmit live feeds to the internet. First, if your camera is an analog type, you need to convert its video signals to a digital format. You can do this by getting a hybrid DVR. It digitizes your analog signals.

When the signals are now in digital form (which is default for digital cameras), you are now ready to make a connection between your cameras and the internet. You will need additional hardware and software for this to work. The process is extremely complicated and requires a lot of manipulation. So if you are not the” techy” type, I suggest you hire someone to do this perfectly for you. You don’t want to screw up and end up breaking things, which can ultimately cost you more money than if you just hired a technician to do it in the first place. However, if you are confident with your IT skills, then try searching for instructions around the web. I found some great sites that could help and provide detailed instructions.

I understand you probably find analog and digital cameras to be complicated for internet CCTV. All that “digital” conversion and installation processes sound so hassling. However, there is another kind of camera out there that is made for internet CCTV. These are called IP Cameras.

IP cameras are already made capable of using the Internet Protocol (IP) to transmit video and audio signals. That means it’s ready to send signals to the internet at any time. There is no longer a need for DVRs or other hardware. You can follow some simple steps that come with the IP camera to install and connect your audio and video feeds to the internet.

Despite whatever camera you have, you can always have the option to connect them to the internet for your security convenience. Technology has really helped us out, especially with security. Before, you can only see internet CCTV technology in movies, like “Mission Impossible” or those other spy movies. Now, you can have it in the palms of your hands. Internet CCTV can even be accessed through 3g or 4g phones. So literally, you can monitor your surveillance on the palms of your hands, using your iPhones, Blackberry, or other handhelds.

Posted in Choosing Camera, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , | 5 Comments

Fake Security Cameras : Do They Really Help?

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Wherever we may be in the world, we live in a place where crime is inevitable. Despite law enforcement’s best efforts, crime happens. The best way to keep ourselves safe from this is to take measures to secure ourselves and our property.

One of the best ways to deter crime is through the installation of security cameras. There are different security cameras out there, such as the inexpensive Bullet cameras, the customizable C Mount cameras and the expensive yet most versatile Dome cameras. Two things that are common with these cameras is that they offer added protection, but they are pricey.

For people who are having problems with the cost of procuring and installing these cameras, there is an alternative for you. You can choose to buy fake security cameras. These dummy cameras offer the protection of deterring would-be intruders. However, keep in mind, as the name suggests, that they are fake cameras.

Fake security cameras are also known as dummy cameras or decoy cameras. They are non-functional cameras that are made and designed to fool would-be intruders. Think of them as scarecrows, which are just meant to scare away birds from a field.

They are designed to look exactly like genuine, functional cameras. However, fake security cameras come with a variation of prices too. The cheapest you could probably find are real cameras that are broken. You could install them and nobody will ever know they are actually broken. The more pricey ones are those fake cameras with features, such as a ability to simulate a pan and tilt or flashing lights.

The concept of utilizing fake security cameras for deterrence is to install them in areas that need minor security, such as areas where we want to deter vandalism or minor theft. You can install real cameras in areas that you really want to be protected and fake security cameras in less important areas. Innocent bystanders will never know the difference. So if you want to use fake security cameras, use them for small businesses, homes, or other areas that are not protecting very valuable items. Be warned that professional burglars or robbers will be able to determine if the camera is fake or not. This is why, to deter a major crime, your best bet is a real camera.

To make a fake security camera effective, you have to make sure that EVERYONE thinks it’s real. When I say EVERYONE, I mean EVERYONE. No one should know they’re dummies. Not even your employees. This has to be your secret. A secret is no longer a secret if someone else knows, so keep it that way. That’s the surefire way to make sure you didn’t waste your money on fake security cameras.

There are a lot of these dummy cameras out there, all with different features. Like I mentioned, the pricier they are, the more features they come with. You just need to choose which particular camera suits your needs and the degree of how far you want to keep them to look realistic.

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Security DVR : Complete Your Security Camera Set-Up

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Wherever you may be in the world, crime is always inevitable. Only the degree of crime varies. That is why it is important to keep watch and make your businesses or homes safe. Wise and logical people tend to invest their money in security. Some people view security as being a priceless commodity, which is why they spend a lot more on it that other people.

In the modern day, mechanical eyes are one form of security. You can view locations anytime if you have surveillance cameras installed. Even at the sight of a security camera, crime is deterred. More and more people are investing on this kind of security. It’s also a good way to monitor your employees for productivity. You can’t be everywhere at all times.

However, merely keeping watch is not enough for some businesses. What if a crime is really happening and all you are doing is watching from the other end of the camera? It would be unwise to charge out and defend your property. Calling the cops may be too late too, since the intruders will be gone by the time they show up. That’s why it is appropriate to pair a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) with your security cameras.

A security DVR is a machine that works like any other household DVR. It can record audio and video, do a playback, has pause and play capability and other capabilities. The only difference is that you enjoy a household DVR for movies and shows, whereas a security DVR records your surveillance camera feeds.

A security DVR completes your surveillance security system. Not only do you have the power to view live feeds from all over you store, office, or home, but you are recording them at the same time. When actual crime happens and the culprit leaves the property, you can provide a recording to the police to help them catch the perpetrator and recover your lost property.

A security DVR comes with features and specifications that are specific to maintaining security. For example, they are able to display and record up to 32 different camera feeds at one time. The cheaper security DVR can hold 4, 8, or 16 camera feeds at one time. Depending on the amount of security cameras you have installed, you can choose a security DVR which fits your needs.

Another feature is remote access of the DVR so you can view what’s happening from another location. You can be at home and check your office via the internet, LAN, WAN, through your iPhone or other mobile device. It depends on the features the manufacturers set it up with. This is great, especially when you keep traveling and you need to check on your the premises. They say the mice play when the cat is away. Good thing this cat has mechanical eyes.

You’re probably wondering where it stores your recordings, right? Well, wonder no more. These DVRs come with a 250 or 320 Gigabyte hard drive. Not only that, but some DVRs also come with motion recording, remote network back up for your recordings, remote controls, a DVD burner, and high definition.

There are a lot of features DVRs can offer. The more features, the more expensive the DVR will be too. You don’t have to buy the most expensive one if it doesn’t even fit in with your set-up or circumstances. Assess your needs before looking for security DVRs that are best for you.

Posted in Camera Security, Choosing Camera, Home Security Camera | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Security Signs : Deter Intruders Even If They Don’t See Your Outdoor Security Cameras

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Crime is such a common thing these days, especially now with the state of our economy. The poor have become poorer, and the rich have become richer. Some suggest that is why some people are driven to criminal acts as a result of poverty. Well, we won’t go into who is obviously to blame for crime (hint: whoever did it), but how to protect your family and property.

Security is not a want. According to Abraham Maslow, the famed psychologist, this is one of our needs to survive as a human being: psychological and physical security. With the ever rising expenses, some people are not able to afford security cameras or security personnel to protect their businesses, and especially their homes.

This is where security signs come in. Let’s start this discussion with an analogy. Have you ever seen a cornfield with a scarecrow? The scarecrow actually does what it is named for: to scare away the crows who try to steal corn and other crops. Security signs work like this. They are there to scare away intruders and burglars away from your business or homes.

Security signs are made to be obvious and an eye catcher so that everyone who passes by notices your signs. These security signs will usually come with short and direct visual and written messages saying that your property is being protected either by a security alarm, surveillance, security personnel, and others. The moment would-be criminals see your signs, they will think twice about violating your home. Why would they risk getting caught by targeting a house that claims it has security when they can always prey on unsecured property?

The secret advantage with security signs is claiming you have actual security. You can put them up even if you don’t have an alarm system or surveillance cameras in the house. The will never know unless they take the risk and invade your home. However, like I said, no would-be thief would take the risk for fear of getting caught. They’d target other houses instead.

These signs are great since they can provide you with security and they can come cheap. The best strategy to use them is to put them in obvious places. They didn’t accidentally manufacture these signs to come in bright colors. They are like designed to catch the attention of passerby. Maximize the signs’ effect by putting them in obvious places in front and at the back of your property. People passing by will associate mentally as common knowledge that your house or business is protected. This “public” knowledge is enough to reduce the chances of you getting robbed by substantial percentages.

There are also security signs that warn rescuers to the presence of children or pets during an emergency. This will help rescuers to know the home’s residents and take quick action. Signs that caution are also set up to not only protect yourself, but others too. For example, you have a vicious dog and you don’t want pedestrians coming too close to your gate. You can post a sign up for this. So you see, these signs provide you with security and also help out in other means.

These signs may not provide actual security, especially when you post signs about surveillance cameras and you don’t actually have one. However, investing in these cheap signs can provide you enough protection to keep you safe. These are your first lines of defense. Coupled with decoy ameras, actual security cameras or an alarm, then you can have improved safety. Learn to use signs effectively but don’t put rely solely on them.

Posted in Camera Security, Choosing Camera, Decoy Cameras | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

Infrared CCTV Cameras Help You Protect Even In The Dark

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

With the rising trend of surveillance camera use, manufacturers are increasingly tinkering with different kinds of security cameras, adding varied features and specifications. Each of these cameras will provide you security, but with differences in the level of detail. Some cameras can provide you with standard images, others are able to see in the dark and others are able to move by themselves.

One of the best features a camera can have is night vision. This is commonly found with Infrared CCTV cameras. These work great outdoors. You will still have full viewing and monitoring capability despite the darkness. You can also use this indoors to monitor offices or your house. Despite the lack of light, you can see things clearly on the camera monitor. An unsuspecting burglar may think that he is safe when hiding in darkness. Well, not when infrared CCTV cameras are around.

Infrared CCTV cameras work by using thermal imaging or infrared LED technology. It depends on who manufactured the camera and the technology they want to use. Both technologies will allow you to see in the dark but will vary on how you see the images. Let’s discuss them one by one so you can get an idea.

Have you ever seen Alien vs. Predator where the movie takes you inside the Predator’s vision? Well, that gives you an idea of how thermal imaging looks like. People, animals, and things constantly emit a level of heat known as thermal energy. Thermal energy is invisible to the naked eye. However, an infrared CCTV camera has a specialized infrared lens that can see thermal energy and relays it to you on the monitor for human eyes to see.

So despite an area being completely dark, or if it is blindingly lit, it won’t matter since thermal imaging does not depend on light. It depends on the thermal energy emitted.

There are two kinds of thermal imaging cameras. One is the uncooled and the other is cooled. Most thermal imaging cameras are uncooled. However, high end cameras use the uncooled technology. This is a complex form of technology that cools the camera so it can be more sensitive to thermal energy and be more sensitive in detecting them.

The second kind of infrared CCTV camera uses infrared LED (light-emitting diode) technology. Like thermal energy, infrared is invisible to the naked eye. In dark settings, a camera with infrared LEDs will project infrared towards a specific area it wants to light up. The camera uses a specialized lens to see the infrared light, so you will be able to view images even in complete darkness via the camera’s monitor. With the naked eye, the area projected with infrared will still remain dark. However, if viewed from the monitor, images are visible, but will be in black and white. It works like a search light similar to those in use in prisons.

These cameras work great when doing surveillance at night, or in dark places like bank vaults or your basement. You can save money by turning off the lights after hours and your infrared camera can still see perfectly for you. Truly, these cameras can provide you around-the-clock protection.

Posted in Choosing Camera, Infrared Cameras, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Residential Security Cameras : How Useful Are They?

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Despite what other people may claim, crime is steadily on the rise in all parts of America. Law and enforcement won’t stop mischief when some criminals know they can pull it off in areas with minimal security or supervision. Business and homes can fall victim to burglary, break-ins, theft, vandalism, and damage.

That is why residential security cameras are spreading like wildfire. The government have taken the use of surveillance cameras to monitor roads, streets, and buildings. Now, every home owner in the world wants that same technology to protect their valuables and loved ones.

Residential security cameras offer you that 24/7 protection. It can catch criminals red handed and help authorities apprehend them. Not only that, but the mere sight of a camera in your home could deter would-be criminals from trying to break in or vandalize your property.

With the modern evolution of residential security cameras, you no longer have to worry about blurry images. Technology provides high resolution and detail. Furthermore, you can access your camera feeds from remote locations. So when you’re in the office or on a vacation, you can check on your house every now and then using the internet. Also, it’s a great tool to monitor your kids playing in the yard, porch, bedroom, living room, or wherever you have your cameras installed.

Residential security cameras not only protect you from external violence but from internal threats too. You can monitor your nanny or babysitter and how they treat your kids. Child abuse reports from babysitters have increased over time in America. You can also monitor the house when your cleaning service or housekeeper comes in.

Since residential security cameras are so advanced, they can offer you the best possible protection you can get from a camera. Some residential security cameras are weatherproof, so you can install them outside the house. Others are protected by a barrier, usually called Dome Cameras, so they can take a whack from a hammer or other attempts to disable a camera.

Furthermore, residential security cameras come with a lot of features. Some are wireless, so you won’t have to run through the hassles of wiring and connecting. You just have to mount them and go. The bad thing here is that they are only good for short-term monitoring. The reason is because wireless cameras depend on batteries to work and transmit images to your receiver or recorder. Wired residential security cameras are hassling to install, but you no longer have to worry about losing power, unless their is a blackout.

Other cameras have night-vision or infrared LED technology. This allows you to see through the night using night-vision technology or by projecting LED infrared light to see through the darkness. Even others have movement and flexibility technology. These are called PTZ or Pan, Tilt, Zoom cameras. They can twist, turn, and focus in on an image for added versatility and range of view.

There are a lot of features with these cameras. The only downside is that the more features a certain camera comes with, the more expensive it gets. The simpler cameras cost less. So to help you out, you need to consider where you are going to place the camera (like on your yard), the features it needs to have (like night-vision since your yard won’t be as well lit during the night), and your budget.

Investing in security cameras is expensive. However, the investment will pay for itself in the long run when you drive away or apprehend criminals using this technology. Safety and security is a need, not a want. A man’s home is his castle. One sure fire way to fortify it is through security cameras.

Posted in Choosing Camera, Home Security Camera, PTZ Cameras, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

PTZ Cameras : Flexibility At An Affordable Price

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

The use of security cameras are spreading like wildfire all over the world, especially in America. They offer protection like none other. Possibility for crime is said to drop by over 85% when security cameras are installed. That is why more and more manufacturers invest into developing new and better cameras each day. One of the better innovations comes in the form of PTZ Cameras.

The term “PTZ cameras” refer to security cameras with a Pan, Tilt, and Zoom capability. Unlike fixed cameras that need to be positioned manually to monitor one fixed location at a time, PTZ cameras can be mounted on the ceiling and will be able to view different parts of a room. It can twist, turn, and focus on a particular location or angle you want. These are the most flexible and versatile type of cameras out there.

Moreover, a PTZ Dome camera (those cameras that are hidden in domes to protect them from vandalism) can provide a 360 degrees view of the whole location below it. Movement of the camera is controlled remotely using a keyboard. It can also be programmed to move by itself, depending on your preferences.

You can even trigger automatic movement of the camera to focus on a specific area without touching the keyboard. You can set it up together with motion detectors, magnetic doors, or panic buttons. When these devices are triggered, the camera can move and view the predetermined location like where the movement occurred (for motion detectors) or focus on the door (when the magnetic door sensor is triggered).

New and better types of these cameras are being developed daily. For example, one PTZ camera no longer needs to be linked to a motion detector since developers have found a way to integrate the motion detection technology with their camera. Here is how it works: the camera is on a “parked” position. When there is change in the pixels from where the camera is generally looking at, it automatically attempts to center its attention on the area where the pixels fluctuated by moving, zooming and focusing on that area with the pixel fluctuation. The change in pixels signifies that there was movement on that area and the camera auto-tracks the movement. This works great when you want to monitor vaults or highly restricted areas.

The downside to PTZ cameras is when you install them outside and a thunderstorm happens. Problems can occur, which can result in the PTZ camera becoming useless. That’s why some companies disable their outdoor PTZ cameras during a thunderstorm. Companies are trying to find new ways to have a PTZ camera fully functional outdoors despite a thunderstorm.

Despite the pros and cons, a PTZ camera can come in useful in any location or circumstance. They may come a bit pricey, but it’s a price some people are willing to pay for the quality of security a PTZ camera can offer. Make sure to check other features these cameras can also come with. Ultimately, the cost of procuring such cameras will pay for themselves when your property and valuables are protected from crime.

Posted in Choosing Camera, Dome Cameras, PTZ Cameras, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

Dome CCTV Cameras : What Are Your Options?

Posted on August 1, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Security cameras are one of the most common measures people invest on for security. The safety security cameras offer is one of a kind. They can provide 24/7 surveillance, deter crime from happening, or help law enforcers apprehend criminals caught on camera. They keep you businesses and home safe from would-be robbers.

One of the best kinds of cameras out there is the dome CCTV camera. These cameras are hidden below a hard dome. The dome protects your delicate camera from the weather or against attempts of vandalism. It can even take a whack from a hammer. More expensive dome CCTV cameras are made from tougher materials too. This ensures that criminals will have a hard time trying to disable your security.

The audio and video feeds from dome CCTV cameras are transmitted through a closed-circuit, towards a specific place. It is unlike television broadcasts where the signals are transmitted publicly for everyone to see. These work great with your security cameras because it protects your feeds from getting tapped by unwanted viewers. Casinos, banks, restaurants, cafes, buildings and some houses use this technology.

Dome CCTV cameras are made with different features. The more features, the more versatile they are. However, they are more expensive. Some dome CCTV cameras include a night-vision or infrared LED technology. These both work great when monitoring badly lit areas such as dark rooms or outdoors at night. Infrared LED works by projecting infrared towards an area being monitored so the camera can create a visible field.

Other dome CCTV cameras also come with a pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) capability. This is great since your camera can provide you with a 360-degree field of vision. You can also focus on details, while the camera twists, turns, and zooms. Other PTZ dome cameras come with an integrated technology of auto-tracking. The camera detects motion and immediately tracks and focuses on the movement. This works great when you are monitoring highly restricted areas like bank vaults or personal storage areas.

The cameras transmit the video and audio feeds through point to point, point to multiple points, or wireless links. The best thing about wired cameras is that there won’t be interference with the signal. However, wiring may cause hassle with installation. Wireless cameras are great since you skip all the wiring. The downside is that they are not meant for long-term surveillance since it relies on batteries for power. Interference may also disrupt video and audio feeds.

You need to determine the circumstances and conditions of areas you need to monitor so you can buy the necessary camera with the appropriate features and specifications. The more features there are, the more expensive the equipment will be. Expense won’t be exclusive for the camera purchase. You also need monitors or security DVRs and payment for installation. Despite the expenses, you should remember that there is no price for safety. You may be investing a lot of money now, but in the long run, your security will pay for itself by keeping your valuables safe. By the end of the day, you’ve gained more than other people who do not have them.

Posted in Choosing Camera, Dome Cameras, PTZ Cameras, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

Cheap Security Cameras : Get The Best Security Camera System At An Affordable Price

Posted on July 11, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

In all corners of the world, safety is a priority. Safety not only comprises of our own well-being but to the protection of our loved ones, hard-earned valuables and property. However, safety comes at a price. Safety for your home or business is an investment that pays for itself in the long run. It deters crime and vandalism from happening within the confines of your business or home, thereby preventing costly repair or replacement expenses.

It has been said that a man’s home is his castle. One way of fortifying this is with the use of security cameras. However, security cameras, like almost all pieces of technology out there, are pricey. It would only be natural that people would seek the safety they provide but at a lower cost.So, are there things like cheap security cameras out there?

Security cameras are expensive depending on the features they have to offer. As a simple answer to the question, yes, there are cheap security cameras out there but their durability and capabilities are limited.

An example of a feature that makes security cameras expensive is infrared technology that uses IR signals to illuminate surroundings for visibility during low-light conditions such as at night. IR signals can provide illumination to up to 100 feet for high-end cameras. Motion sensors and color discriminating features are an added expense as well.

Cameras that have the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) can also add to the expense of the product. Night vision is also a feature expensive cameras will have. Lacking features will limit what cameras can do but it will make them significantly cheaper. These cameras are not the ideal cameras to use if you want the full measure of protection and flexibility. Cheap cameras are conducive for well-lit areas.
There are three types of cameras out there: the Dome, C Mount and Bullet security camera.

The bullet security camera is the least expensive among the three types. Bullet cameras have a narrow and sleek design. It is encased in a tough material that makes them weatherproof. Another factor that can make a camera cheap is the material used affecting its overall durability. There are a lot of cheap security cameras that are low-maintenance, but there are some security cameras that are inexpensive due to poor manufacturing. Make sure you learn how to differentiate the two.

There are two ways in which you can get the safety you’re looking for but for a cheap price. The first one is by purchasing fake security cameras. Fake camera, or decoy cameras, are real-looking cameras. However, they do not provide you a live audio-visual feed. They are installed for the purpose to deter potential robbers or any acts of vandalism. Fake security cameras are manufactured to look convincing by putting in a blinking LED bulb that can give the vandal or thief a feeling that the are being watched. Obviously, they don’t provide you real security. Despite all that, fake security cameras are as cheap as $16.00. The price varies on how realistic they look.

The other option is to use a regular webcam and connect it to your desktop. You can wire your webcam to a location you want to watch over and have the feed available through your desktop PC. You can even have it record 24/7. If you want time-lapsed recording, you can use a program to have your webcam take pictures every 15-30 seconds. Webcams can cost for as low as $10.00.

The best security comes at a price. If you opt for cheaper options, you won’t be able to get the full protection high-end cameras can give you. However, that investment is better than none.

Posted in Camera Security, Choosing Camera, Decoy Cameras, Home Security Camera | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Dome Cameras : Fixed Cameras Vs. PTZ Cameras

Posted on July 11, 2010 by Chuck P. Smith

Crime is a common occurrence in any community. Any man, whether rich or poor, may fall victim to damages or theft, either if it is a loss of property or a threat to one’s well-being. That is why we always need to stay vigilant and take measures to keep our valuables safe. Investing resources and effort for such precautions are not considered a waste, but an invaluable factor in your home or business’ security. There is much truth to the saying: “Prevention is better than cure”.

Businesses and homes are now being protected by modern age eyes we call security cameras. They can be installed at strategic locations so we can keep an eye on our surroundings. Technology has evolved enough to allow recording of the feeds so we can have a copy should anything happen.

There are different types of security cameras out there. There are the inexpensive and common cameras known as Bullet Cameras; the customizable and mid-ranged priced C Mount Cameras and the expensive yet versatile Dome Cameras. Let’s talk about the best security cameras for your business or home – the dome camera.

You have probably seen a dome camera somewhere, but maybe you didn’t realize it was one or the fact that it was a camera at all. They are used in restaurants, apartment buildings, houses, and more commonly in casinos and retail stores.

The Dome Camera got its name from its appearance, because the camera is encased in a dome. The dome protects the camera from vandalism attempts. Cameras are fragile. Any camera can be taken out by a simple smash from a piece of wood, thus disabling your surveillance. A dome camera on the other hand cannot be easily destroyed. The dome absorbs the impact and keeps your camera safe. The dome not only protects your camera from vandalism, but it also protects it from the weather so moisture is not a problem.

There are two types of dome cameras – Fixed Dome Cameras and Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Dome Cameras. The fixed dome cameras can only hold a single position. They are not as flexible and as versatile as a PTZ dome camera, which can pan, tilt and zoom giving you maximum vision. This also saves you money as you will only need one camera to access a 360 degree view, rather than get multiple cameras for each view.

Dome cameras come with different features. Some dome cameras have a day/night feature. This feature provides colored images during the day and black and white images during the night or low-light conditions. Some dome cameras are made with Armor Domes. Armor domes can make the camera better safe from vandalism since it can take on the whack of a hammer and other attempts to disable it. Just ask your retailer regarding more specific features that can give you greater benefits or better security.

Various Dome Cameras have varied features. Some dome cameras are more durable than others too. The more features, the more expensive they are. Price range may start from $40 to $300. Fixed dome cameras are cheaper while Pan, Tilt and Zoom dome cameras are more expensive.

Let’s compare two different dome cameras from different ends of the price range.

The fixed dome camera has:
1.)A ¼ inches Sharp CCD solid-state imaging sensor
2.)A minimum illumination of 1Lux/F2.0
3.)A signal-to-noise ratio of 48 dB
4.)350 TV lines of horizontal high quality picture
5.)AES (Auto Electronic Shutter)
6.)AGC (Auto Gain Control)
7.)AWB (Auto White Balance)

The PTZ camera on the other hand has:
1.)540 TV line
2.)3.3 – 12mm auto iris lens
3.)Built in joystick for easier navigation
4.)On screen programming
5.)1.3 inches Sony super II HAD CCD
6.)Low power consumption
7.)Ultra-sensitivity to low light
8.)AGC (Auto Gain Control)
9.)BLC (Black Light Compensation)
10.)AWB (Auto White Balance)
11.)Mirror Image control
12.)Sharpness control
13.)Programmable privacy zone and motion detection
14.)Electronic day/night mode with color removal circuit
15.)Auto sensing 24 VAC/12 VDC
16.)100 ft. infrared with intelligent LED Sync
17.)3D gimbal (pivot support) for easy control (360 degree pan and 90 deg tilt)
18.)Weatherproof
19.)Video test outlet cable included

The fixed camera is the cheapest one you can find in the market. Considering its features, it can cost at around $40.00. The PTZ camera, on the other hand, is one of the most expensive ones you can find out there. It can cost to as much as $250.00.

Whichever outdoor security camera you choose, I can say that dome cameras offer security for your property and security for itself. It not only protects you, but it also protects itself with its dome design.

Posted in Camera Security, Choosing Camera, Dome Cameras, Home Security Camera, PTZ Cameras, Wired Cameras, Wireless Cameras | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments