UNDERSTANDING THE SECURITY CAMERA, PT. 2

On Tuesday, we looked at four major varieties of security camera. Today, we're going to examine the different ways in which security cameras interact with their environment - through housing, vision and communication.

Security Cameras Need Homes, Too

The outdoor camera is the hardy cousin of its indoor kin. Also known as "weatherproof", the outdoor camera is built to withstand the wear and tear of rain, wind and snow. This type of equipment is generally waterproof, and sometimes accompanied by a built-in heater and fan to regulate temperature and moisture. The outdoor camera, too, can take the form of any of the four basic camera types as described in our previous post.

Vandal resistant cameras are the toughest of the bunch, usually housed in aluminum (as opposed to plastic) and protected by a locking mechanism. A dome style camera is the preferred variety for vandal resistance, as it is much more difficult to damage by striking. The dome camera is also more resistant to being covered or otherwise obstructed. Finally, even camouflage is sometimes implemented to avoid the vandal's attention to begin with!

How Does Your Security System See You?

Using a varifocal security camera allows for change in zoom and focus, improving quality or breadth of coverage. This type of camera can be adapted to any number of surveillance situations either by manual or remote adjustment; the fixed-lens camera, a cheaper and less complex alternative, cannot be adjusted once it is installed. You get what you pay for: the varifocal security camera can be used and re-used in any number of situations.

Infrared security cameras are also known as night-vision cameras, or day/night cameras. They are capable of viewing and recording in total darkness. An infrared LED emanates light on a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is invisible to the human eye, and captures the image of anything that emits heat. In low light conditions, the image is perfectly clear, and in color; in pitch blackness, the image is black and white.

Communicating with Your Surveillance System

The wired security camera was he first on the scene, and still holds a strong position today. Attached to a power source via one cable, and transmitting its video feed through another, the wired camera boasts the most secure connection of any setup available. Between its reliable feed and stable power source, the wired camera earns its keep admirably.

In contrast to the wired format is the wireless camera, which in turn can be subdivided two ways. The network, or IP, camera is a digital camera that harnesses the internet to transmit its data. The CCTV wireless camera, on the other hand, uses radio bandwidth to transmit audio and video data, often in encrypted form. In some cases, these wireless devices are even battery- or solar-powered, adding to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Their strength, however, is also their vulnerability: wireless signals can potentially be intercepted by anyone with the right knowledge and equipment.

Bullets, Domes, Lenses and Wires: Finding Your Way Forward

There's not a single variety, as discussed over this post and the last, that Eye Spy Electronics does not offer for sale and installation. But where, you ask, do I start?

That's why we're here. We have over twenty years' experience in security equipment sales, service and custom installation, We're ready to hear you out, and offer our advice. We can help you through the details, one by one.

Contact us today by telephone at 877-8214880, or by email at sales@eyespyelectronics.com. You could also use our Contact form, or visit our security forum to ask questions and find answers.

We're here to provide you with not only the best equipment, but the highest quality support in the industry. Let us help you find the right security system today!

Dan Parrington is a freelance content writer for a variety of small businesses across the web. He operates out of his primary business website, The Parrington Review. You can contact him at dan@parringtonreview.com.