Security Camera Systems
The average Austin homeowner can have difficult time keeping up with the latest technological innovations in home security systems. This is especially true with home security cameras. Lots of new security products and software have become available in the last couple of years. Austin homeowners in the market for a home security camera system can have a lot of questions about what type of system they should buy.
Analog Systems
Security Cameras are available in Analog or Digital formats. Lower cost analog security cameras are used in the majority of residential applications. Closed circuit television (CCTV) is considered an industry standard in home security cameras. They can be used individually or in single or multiple networks. The CCTV analog cameras record the video signal and send it over cables (for a wired system) or if wireless by a radio frequency – usually at 2.4 GHz – to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). A downside to this type of wireless security system is that this frequency is also used by a number of other home devices so interference can be a problem. Also the wireless signal cannot be encrypted, so it can be viewed by anyone with a compatible receiver.
The DVR converts the signal to digital and stores it on a hard drive. Monitors are connected to the DVR to allow viewing of the signal. The DVR can include various functions such as motion detection, digital zoom and pan (dependent on camera functionality) and can be broadcast over the internet in one IP address. This allows for efficient use of bandwidth. There are many brands of analog cameras on the market so the ease of adding to an existing analog system is a plus for this type of security camera.
IP Camera Systems
IP security cameras have built in encryption so they provide a more secure transmission. Interference is not a problem with IP cameras. Since they are their own network device the camera itself can provide digital processing, motion detection and other functions prior to transmission. You can transmit other commands as well, such as turning lights on and off. They require software compatible with the camera to be added to the PC that will be used to view the video.
The signal is sent over the internet in the same manner as the DVR signal. Bandwidth can be a problem. A system of 8 high resolution cameras transmitting audio along with video would use a very large amount of bandwidth, requiring a lot of hard drive space to store the signal. This can be reduced by using motion detectors that prevent continuous monitoring. Digital Cameras can use an Ethernet cable for a wired system.
Security Cameras
Most home security cameras are either the Dome type or the Bullet type. Either of these is manufactured for indoor or outdoor use. Both types are available in low light applications or, if using Infrared light technology, no light conditions. Dome cameras can be equipped with motion sensors and zoom capabilities. Advantages of this style of camera are the relative low cost, and the range of view. Domes can be fixed or have pan, tilt and zoom functions (PTZ). Domes can also view straight down, which is an advantage over the bullet style. Management software allows control of both analog and digital cameras for what is commonly called a hybrid system.
Speco VL648IRVF Indoor Dome Camera with IR LEDs
Bullet security cameras are also a very popular style for home security. They can be easily waterproofed and ruggedized for outdoor use. Small in size, affordable and reliable, they can also be fixed or PLZ. Like Dome cameras, they can be fitted with IR for night viewing. Developments in video security software can add motion detection, face detection, missing object detection, privacy masks, and scene changes as well as panorama view, video stabilization and many other functions. Cost is really the only limitation to video surveillance optimization.
Our Security Systems Can Do it All
TriStar Commercial Security can install a complete home security system that allows you to control and monitor all functions of your residence. You can use a smart phone to remotely view your cameras, check on your babysitter or baby cam, turn on or off your lights, change your thermostat and even see when your entrances and exits were accessed. With current technology your totally integrated security system can provide you with a smart home that is secure as well.