The idea of a security camera system hardwired into the walls of a home which is then monitored at an offsite centre is not all that common nowadays. Technology has made this type of setup redundant in most residential settings and has arguably expanded its scope. So how do you choose a camera system to protect your home?
Automated and Self-Monitoring
After professional security camera installation has been performed, the system should largely be automated, with any in-person monitoring being handled by the person best positioned to determine a threat—namely you.
Wireless
Essentially, you're observing your own home via wireless technology. Installation isn't complicated but should be handled by a professional. Cameras must be positioned internally and externally in locations that have optimal angles and wide fields of vision. Because you're monitoring your own home via the internet, there aren't privacy issues to contend with.
Push Notifications
This wireless notification capability generally requires a small subscription fee, depending on the system. The system interface is a smartphone app that sends push notifications (pop-up warnings) on your screen as needed. The camera activates by way of its onboard motion detector. Depending on the camera system, a still image or a short clip is recorded. This is what is sent to your phone as a push notification. You watch the media in question and determine the next step. It's more than likely someone in your household triggered the camera, but depending on what (or who) the camera has recorded, you can notify the police.
Power Source
Although these cameras are described as wireless, this wireless connection is the encrypted data stream the camera sends to your home internet router. They still need a power source, and this can be the so-called plug and play, which is plugging the camera into an existing power outlet. This is somewhat limiting as you have fewer options when it comes to the camera's position. Professional installation allows the camera to be wired to your home electricity, which is the most reliable way to ensure continuous coverage.
Camera Capabilities
The camera should be high definition, with infrared abilities permitting night vision. A standard definition camera that's reliant on daylight isn't as comprehensive as it needs to be. The chosen system should also be able to upload footage to cloud-based online storage as needed, otherwise you'll have to choose cameras with built-in storage—usually in the form of a secure digital (SD) card.
There are plenty of different choices for home security cameras, as long as your bases are covered in terms of what the system is capable of. For more information, contact a company like the Australian Security Company.
