Tips For Buying Video Surveillance Cameras

Security is an important consideration for any home or office, which probably explains why there is a steady increase in the demand for video surveillance cameras and security systems. If you want to ensure that your system is effective and reliable, probably the best place to start is with the video surveillance camera. After all, this is where the security monitoring begins.

How many video surveillance cameras do you need? The number of video surveillance cameras you purchase and use will depend primarily on two things: the size of the area you want to secure and the extent to which you want to monitor it. In most cases, a single video surveillance camera is enough to provide the right visuals and deterrent factor. However, for larger areas, a more complicated, multiple camera system might be more effective.

Lens When it comes to video surveillance cameras, a lot rests on the lenses. For basic surveillance, a standard surveillance camera package containing a 4mm lens will be good enough. However, there might be a need to use lenses that offer closer views or more detailed images, which means you will have to choose wider angled lenses, varifocal lenses or zoom lenses.

Wide angle lenses offer a wider perspective of an area, offering you a good, encompassing view. Varifocal lenses give better flexibility in terms of view while zoom lenses allow you to get closer to a target object or area from a remote location. Of these lens types, the fixed focus lenses are the least costly alternative, while zoom lenses may be a little bit expensive.

Signal to noise ratio and light sensitivity The s/n or signal to noise ratio shows how good a camera is in transmitting actual image information, in contrast to static or 'noise'. The lower the ratio is, the poorer the picture. So if you compare a 30db to a 60 db signal to noise ratio, you'll get a better picture with a 60 db. A 30 db will appear to have more 'snow' or look like a grainier picture than a 60 db.

Light sensitivity, often indicated as 'lux', indicates how well a video surveillance camera will perform in less than ideal lighting. Conditions such as cloudy days, for example, or shaded areas and darkening skies often make it difficult for cameras to transmit images. If you prefer, you can also choose a video surveillance camera that has an automatic iris. This automatically adjusts the lens when lighting changes or dims and is a good solution for cameras located outdoors.

For a more practical approach, consider light sensitivity only as a major buying decision if you need to monitor an area that is found under dim lighting conditions. Otherwise, ordinary video surveillance cameras will do.

Video surveillance cameras you can manipulate If you prefer a more advanced solution and don’t mind spending more, PTZ (short for pan, tilt and zoom) cameras are a great choice. Using compatible equipment, you can manipulate the camera to 'pan' or scan areas left to right and vice versa, tilt the camera up and down and zoom closer or further away from a target object.

Should you fake it? That depends on you. Some people swear by fake cameras, some of which come complete with blinking LED lights to simulate the real thing. They seem to work for some people but there is a risk that once burglars get wind of the truth, you might be left with no evidence in your hands. If you must use fake video surveillance cameras, make sure no one knows about them.

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