Home Security Systems

A home security camera can help protect your property and let you monitor your home remotely when you are away. In fact, a home security camera system can be the first deterrent that can send intruders on their way, which is why some people install cameras in highly visible places on their home property. A security camera can also allow you to go back and review video if needed.

There are various options for surveillance camera equipment - from single video cameras and monitors to more advanced closed circuit television (CCTV) systems. Depending on your needs and how you plan to install it, you can get a camera with different kinds of connections, storage, alarms, messages, and remote viewing. You can link your camera to an alarm system or use it as a standalone device, and you can install several inexpensive cameras in various important locations.

The key is to decide what you want the camera to do and then buy the model that best suits your needs.

Connectivity

Because your camera has to transmit data for recording or viewing, it needs electric power. Even if you buy a wireless model that transmits data over a wireless network, you still need a power connection. You can reduce wiring by getting a camera that takes its power from an Ethernet cable or USB connection, and other technology sends the data over your home electrical system, using a standard plug for both power and data.

Deciding on the connections is important to help avoid later problems with wiring.

Operation

The key operational variable for a home security camera is whether you want it to work with your computer or independently. For a PC-based system, your computer has to be switched on permanently and have a hard drive big enough to store the images from the camera. An independent system has its own storage and software.

As for other operating features, all home security cameras can record what they see for future reference, but you can get systems that let you view the images from any Internet connection. Some systems send you an email when they detect activity, and some email you a still picture or video clip when something activates their motion sensor. You can use these systems to check whether parcels have been delivered or if your dog has been walked on time.

Alarms

While home security cameras can take the place of motion sensors to trigger alarms, you probably still need the remote continuous monitoring service to alert police or fire departments when you can't be reached. A better strategy is to use home security cameras to supplement a monitored home alarm system. The camera lets you check on your home regularly while the monitoring service acts as a backup for emergencies. If you get an alarm and the monitor has sent the appropriate service, you will always know what is actually going on at your property.