Tuesday, September 1, 2009

How to Buy a Video Security System

By Todd Cavanaugh

Whether you are thinking about your home or your office, a home video security system might be what you have decided you need. There are two main types of security you might want to consider. First, there is exterior surveillance. These cameras which are often clearly visible, allow you to record or watch what is happening on your property outside your home or in certain parts of the interior. The second type is the interior spy camera. This would be invisible and would provide a record of what happens within the range of the camera. This might be used to monitor caregivers in the home.

It is possible to purchase a video security system in almost any price range. But the clearest pictures, the most reliable recordings, and the most secure storage will cost more. Chances are that if you feel the need for video security, it will be worth the cost to get the best equipment.

The first decision you will need to make about video security system options is whether you need surveillance outside, inside, or some combination of both. Are you trying to keep an eye on what is happening on your property outside your home? Do you want to know how a babysitter is caring for your child or a caregiver for your parent?

The next decisions about your video security system will determine the kind of cameras and lenses you will need. Cameras, often with interchangeable lenses, are available in a wide range of prices, styles, and types. Do you want a spy camera hidden in a clock? Do you want a surveillance camera that allows you to see who is at the door? Do you want your system hard-wired or wireless? Do you need fixed angles of vision, or do you want to be able to scan and move the lens?

The images captured by the cameras in your video security system will be captured on video tape (VCR) or on a DVD (DVR technology). Some systems are equipped with sensors that actually record images only when a sensor is activated (by motion, for example). This saves recording time and wasted recording. The system might connect cameras to a DVR device or it might connect them to your PC's hard drive.

In choosing indoor cameras for your video security system, you will again need to decide whether the cameras need to be hidden or visible. Should the lens rotate with movement in the room, or be stationary. These cameras can be remarkably small and they can be hidden almost anywhere in a room. If you are trying to ensure the safety of a loved one while in the care of another person, you might want to invest in the best camera and recording equipment you can afford.

Choosing a video security system will need to consider your needs, your budget, and installation and connection issues. Keep in mind that the system as a whole is only as good as the lowest quality component.

Installation is as important as the equipment. If it is important to have video surveillance, it will probably be worth the cost to you to know that the system is properly installed.

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