In recent years, there has been a rise in theft incidents in the apartments. For this reason, many people have decided to safeguard their assets by installing so-called Video Surveillance Cameras.
However, not everyone is aware of this security system. It involves installing one or more cameras in various rooms of the house (to keep windows and doors under control) that transmit images wirelessly 24 hours a day to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. In this way, wherever you are, you can maintain control and, in the event of an intrusion, promptly alert the police.
Video Surveillance Cameras: Why is it so advantageous to install them?
This system is very convenient because, compared to what was done in the past, it does not require an electrician to install a traditional electrical system with cables, cameras, and a remote control unit.
The wireless video surveillance camera system is accessible to everyone, as it does not require specialized labor. A minimum of manual skills, a power outlet near the video camera, and a WiFi router for an Internet connection are all that is needed.
On the market, there are many models suitable for all needs. Suppose you have decided to make this kind of purchase. In that case, you must first learn to distinguish the technical characteristics of the various models and take into consideration some critical factors, including:
- Type of connection
- Image quality
- Audio quality
- Sensors
- Location of the IP camera (internal or external)
Type of connection
The first thing to evaluate is the type of connection of the surveillance IP cameras. There are two methods of connection:
1.) Typically, they are first installed on the wall and connected by cable to the electrical outlet. They are connected to the home’s wireless network without the need for additional cables.
2.) Some models connect directly to the router to access the Internet; these are PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras, which, thanks to a simple adapter, can use the same cable for both power and network connection.
Image quality
The first factor to consider when purchasing a video surveillance camera is image quality. The advice is to choose a model with an HD resolution (1,280 x 720 pixels) because it provides clear images. Still, if your ADSL is not very fast, it is preferable to move towards lower resolutions (640 × 480 pixels).
Remaining always on the subject of image quality is also fundamental to the format in which the images are taken. IP Cameras support various formats, including H.264, MPEG-4, MPEG, and JPEG. The format that offers the best ratio between quality and file size is H.264. As far as night vision is concerned, the lens of the camera is crucial because its ability to capture images in poorly lit areas depends on it. Remember that the lower the value, the greater the lens aperture will be.
Audio quality
One of the key factors to consider when purchasing a video surveillance camera is its audio capabilities. It is preferable to choose a model with two-way audio, as it allows you to listen to what is happening in the monitored area and, simultaneously, communicate through the device using the computer microphone or a mobile phone.
The sensors
If you prefer something more sophisticated, opt for a video surveillance camera model equipped with motion detection, ie, a motion sensor that is activated only when it detects movements within the monitored area and promptly alerts the user in case of violation. If you want a camera that can detect even the smallest movements in low-light conditions, opt for one with a passive infrared (PIR) sensor.
Fixed or Mobile?
Considering the range of action on the market, there are two primary types of video surveillance cameras: fixed and mobile. Fixed-frame cameras are the most affordable models, while mobile cameras fall within the medium to high price ranges. Mobile cameras can be:
1.) Robotic, that is, they can be moved remotely via a smartphone or PC, and they can zoom, autofocus, and detect tampering attempts.
2.) PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras that can move slightly, horizontally and vertically, or zoom in on the framed area.
3.) Fisheye cameras (fisheye) that can offer a 360° view of the room.
Indoor or Outdoor
There are two types of video surveillance cameras on the market: outdoor and indoor. The outdoor model, unlike the other, must be waterproof, sensitive to temperature changes, weather-resistant, and have good night vision.
