Mobile Security Cameras technology is transforming the home, thanks to fundamental shifts in how digital data is gathered, analysed and shared.
Tip:
Look for a camera that offers at least 1080p resolution. Higher-resolution cameras can offer better detail, but they’ll eat up video storage and Wi-Fi bandwidth faster. Also, make sure your network is private to limit access to hackers who can use default login credentials.
Video Quality
The video resolution of a security camera determines how much detail is visible on the image. High resolutions, like 1080p and 4K (2160p), offer greater picture quality, but they also require more storage space and use up wireless bandwidth a lot faster than lower resolutions.
The resolution of a security camera isn’t the only factor to consider when deciding which camera to buy, though. A camera’s field of view is also important; a wider field of view allows you to see more of the surroundings, making it easier to spot suspicious activity.
Another important consideration is the type of transmission used by the camera. Many cameras today rely on Wi-Fi signals to transmit data, but some use hardwired connections for better performance and increased security. Hardwired systems avoid the drop in video quality caused by compression, and they can be more easily installed in locations that are out of range for wireless signal coverage, such as granny pods, weekend cabins or construction sites.
Both wireless and wired security cameras can store video locally using either a DVR or NVR recorder. DVRs use a physical hard drive to store footage, while NVRs digitize the data before sending it over the network. Both options are reliable, but hardwired systems may have a greater level of protection against hackers who might try to access wirelessly transmitted data.
A growing number of security cameras can be connected to the cloud, allowing users to remotely access and view video from anywhere. While it might not be possible for some buyers to make the switch entirely, this option can be a great addition to a home security system.
When buying a security camera, buyers should be aware that most brands don’t record audio. This is because laws regarding sound recording vary widely from country to country, with many requiring two-party consent before recordings can be made. Some security camera manufacturers offer live two-way audio, however, which is useful for situations where it might be necessary to contact someone in a hurry. In some cases, these audio recordings can also be stored for future reference.
Motion Detection
Motion detection is a standard feature in security cameras that enables them to only record video or send notifications when movement is detected. Cameras without this feature may record hours of footage that are never useful or relevant. Motion detection can also help you save on monitoring and storage costs by reducing the amount of data that is recorded continuously.
The ability to detect motion is especially important in a security camera, as it can allow you to prevent criminal activity before it occurs. It is often combined with other devices like security alarms and lights to ward off trespassers.
Detection systems typically use either passive infrared (PIR) or passive millimeter wave (PMMW) sensors to trigger recordings and alerts. PIR sensors are the most popular choice, enabling you to set up up to four detection zones and adjust sensitivity levels. They are capable of detecting motion within a large range of temperature and humidity, making them ideal for outdoor settings.
PMMW sensors offer more flexibility in how they respond to motion, allowing you to monitor areas where you need more precision. They are more effective at detecting motion near the edges of a scene, where PIR sensors might miss it. They are also more sensitive to small changes in ambient lighting, making them a good fit for indoor spaces.
Both types of motion sensors can be prone to false activations, which is why it’s important to invest in a quality system with advanced features. Smart motion detection, for example, uses machine learning to filter out non-threatening movements like leaves blowing or shadows, reducing the number of false alerts.
Another way to reduce the frequency of false alerts is to ensure that your camera’s lens is clean and free from obstructions. In addition, you should consider positioning your camera away from windows so that it can avoid direct sunlight that might trigger a recording or alert.
Alarms
Many security cameras have alarm capabilities, either as a built-in siren or as an output that can trigger external alarm devices. In addition, some models have a microphone for two-way audio communication. Some of these are designed to work with smart home hubs and other devices, such as Amazon Alexa or Philips Hue. Check your system’s compatibility with other equipment before you buy. Look for a “Works with” page or contact support to determine what other systems, hubs, and devices are compatible with your panel, camera, and app.
In general, alarms on security cameras notify the user via push notifications in the app, emails with attached snapshots and videos, or text messages. The notifications also allow the user to replay video clips to check out what’s going on before taking action. Most wired and wireless security cameras with alarms can alert you when motion is detected, but some high-end security cameras have a variety of additional alert options, including audible warnings (siren) and customizable voice alerts such as Reolink Argus 2’s “Get out of my house!” alert.
Some cameras can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles, reducing the number of unneeded notifications from moving objects or inanimate items. Some are even capable of identifying faces over time and can provide you with super-specific notifications.
While security cameras can be a useful tool in a crime deterrence strategy, they are not without their drawbacks. Some people may feel uncomfortable with a constant recording that captures their actions, which can be used to identify them in the event of a robbery or break-in. Hackers may also compromise this type of footage, although major professionally monitored security systems and devices sold by reputable developers are able to use high-end encryption and other security measures to protect your privacy.
Installation
Security cameras help protect homes from criminal activity, but they’re only effective when they are able to capture the action that takes place. Whether residents are installing a single camera to improve front door security or are planning a full network of synced cameras, they’ll need to choose the right locations to get maximum coverage. To do this, they’ll need to walk around their property and find the areas where having a security camera will provide them with the best coverage.
Once they’ve found the optimal locations, it’s time to start the actual installation process. To do this, they’ll need the right tools and materials, as well as some basic knowledge of wiring and connectivity. Before beginning, they’ll need to ensure that the power is turned off at the breaker box, especially if they are running wires through the walls. Additionally, they should consider whether or not their project requires a permit, and leave enough time in the schedule to apply for one.
Next, they’ll need to decide if they want a wired or wireless system. Wired systems require cables that connect both to the internet and to power, while wireless options are self-contained units that use a home’s existing WiFi network to communicate video images to cloud storage or a DVR system. Residents who choose a wired option will need to make sure that their router can create a strong connection with the camera. This may mean adding a range extender or using a hub designed to work with the brand of camera they’ve chosen.
Once the cable run is complete, it’s time to mount the camera in place. For this, residents will need to carefully screw in the camera’s mounting bracket or block. Once they’ve done this, they can tighten down any set screws to securely hold the camera’s angles in place. They should also take this opportunity to caulk any small gaps around the exterior mounting bracket or block, patch any holes created while running wires, and add faceplates to connections and outlets. Finally, they should test the cameras to make sure that they’re capturing everything they need them to.