Obviously, when asked to choose between preventing a break-in and having to deal with the aftermath of one, most home and business owners will choose the former. Surveillance cameras can be quite helpful when it comes to preventing or solving break-ins. The same is true for small or big commercials.
Apparently, the world has changed to more digitalized regarding security measures in big commercial business centers as well as for homeowners. The use of security camera surveillance can help homeowners, business owners and build secure and safer from any security threats or damages occurrence.
Before choosing the right security camera for yourself, you need to understand a few basics about it.
Table Of Contents
How Do Surveillance Cameras Work?
In the s
You can find those in Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club and on Amazon, etc. There are many devices in your surveillance bundle.
All cameras(Bullet, Dome or PTZ, etc.) send video signals to DVR or NVR. If it is DVR, it converts the analog signal to digital and stores it in DVR. If you are using NVR, it just stores the video in NVR.
DVR or NVR are connected to Digital Monitor or Analog Monitor to view the recorded footage.
1. Analog Surveillance Cameras
Analog camera output analog signal and this signal is transmitted to the DVR using cable connecting to it. The analog camera uses a special type of cable called BNC (Bayonet Neill Concelman) cable. You can buy BNC connectors separately from the Amazon.
If you are planning not to include DVR analog camera system, then you should be considering the compatibility of your monitoring device. So Important to know about the TV line lines is that It should support the analog signal directly. To display video monitoring you should check that TV Line (called TVL) is compatible with your camera.
For example, if your camera resolution is 1000TVL, then you should have your monitoring display device at least 1000 TV or more.
2. IP Camera Or Network Cameras
An IP camera outputs signal digitally and uses CAT5 or CAT6 cables to transmit the signal to NVR. NVR stands for the network video recorder. if you have a commuter network at home, you may utilize it this network and connect your IP cameras to it. Generally, IP or network cameras have better video quality than the analog one. IP cameras do support wireless or Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if your business surrounding is not large, you may consider having wireless cameras; it has other disadvantages though, please refer here for more details.
So, whether you decide to use analog cameras or IP cameras, both require the use of a power source with a power cable running up to the camera. In the case of the analog camera, you need extra video cable to output the video signal. It means you need one cable for power and one cable for video. Now a days analog camera also supports audio, which means you need an additional cable for audio too.
With IP camera, Video and Audio signals are transmitted through the network cable. CAT5 and CAT6 both support this. Some IP camera supports Power over Ethernet or POE. It means you can transmit power using your network cable, so in this case, you will have only one cable for both power and video/audio.
3. Digital Video Recorder(DVR)
As you know cameras are the main component of your surveillance system, but the heart of a surveillance system is the DVR, which records live video feed and gives the ability to play recorded video anytime when you want. DVR uses a hard drive to store the videos coming from cameras. DVR is used for analog security cameras systems.
One camera is called one channel, so if you have 4 cameras it means you need a DVR which supports 4 or more channels. The main thing you need to consider before buying the DVR is how many channels it supports. If you are planning to have 6 cameras then you should look for a DVR which supports 6 or preferable 8 channel, just keep in mind that in future you may need to install more camera then at that time you don’t need to buy a DVR, you can just simply buy a camera and plug to it.
4. Network Video Recorder(NVR)
The way we have two types of cameras Analog and Network, similarly we have two types of Video Recorder. Video recorder for IP or network camera is called NVR or Network Video Recorder. It plays the same role as DVR does for analog cameras.
NVR is built from the ground up to accept only IP cameras as all the inputs on the back of the network cables. Although it is called NVR, it still records the digital signals which can be played on a monitor. Because the technology on NVR is newer than DVR, it is a little bit more expensive.
The majority of DVR and NVR have network connectivity options. You can plug it to the internet and can be monitored remotely using the smartphone, PC or even a TV. Videos from DVR and NVR can be monitored from another city or another state and even in another country when you’re away from home such as a vacation.
In order to view your cameras anywhere, you’ll need a capable router and internet connection with broadband for uploading the video feed from your DVR and NVR.
5. Hard Drive(HDD)
DVR and NVR as can be purchased with or without a hard drive. We recommend you to buy DVR without the hard drive and buy a hard drive with larger capacity separately. This will save you more money going forward. You can ensure the quality of hard drive as you would be purchasing it on your own.
Think about the hard drive, this would be the most valuable piece as all your video footage will be stored in it, if you have a cheap quality, then it may crash in future and you will lose data.
Western Digital Hard Drives are considered the best hard drives for robust performance you can check the price here.
Seagate hard drives are also a good one. You may check the price here.
6. Monitor
The
There is not really anything special about a monitor as you can use any PC monitor or any old monitor sitting in your garage (of course, it should be in working condition) as long as it is a compatible connection with your video recorder.
If you want to save money, you can purchase a used PC monitor at your local thrift store, and you can also get things for a very cheap price. You can use your regular TV as a monitor as long as your DVR/NVR supports it.
7. Cable
If you are using Analog Surveillance System, then you will need a cable that supports the analog signal, usually, BNC cables are a good choice. BNC cable that runs an analog signal for analog cameras. Along with a camera cable, you will need cable staples to run the cables along the walls.
If you are using NVR then you need a network cable. You may use CAT5 or CAT6 cables. It carries power and data at the same time. Please check the manufacturer’s recommended cable type.
What is Power over Ethernet – PoE
Security camera cables are used to transmit audio or video signals to DVR/NVR. In this case, you need an extra cable, power cable, to keep running your camera. PoE cables make life easy, power and audio/video signals can be transmitted using PoE cables. CAT5 and CAT6 cables are the best examples of this. So if you are using PoE cable, you don’t have to worry about powering your camera. Basically, you cut down one wire from your security camera system.
8. Microphone
You can have other supporting devices with your surveillance system such as a microphone to enhance the video experience by adding audio.
Two main things you might need to consider,
- You need an audio cable if your DVR supports audio
. It may not be legal to record audio of somebody without letting him know.
“I’m sure by now you are well aware that parts of a security camera but what you may not be aware of is the type of cameras based on body type design, for example, dome camera, bullet camera, PTZ camera, etc.. Confused? No worry, here I am writing down a few examples of the camera which are based on design type.
Any security camera would be either Analog or IP camera. The microphone is just an additional device installed in it. Using the microphone along with the security camera is completely optional.
Each security camera system has a specific way to use the microphone. You need to do customization in DVR or NVR software to use it properly. Please follow the manufacturer manual to install it accurately.
Camera Types Based On Body Design
1. Dome Camera
Many people have asked me the same question, which camera type I should buy!! Especially the first-time buyer. It’s quite confusing sometimes. Here I am going to explain a few things which you should before buying.
Dome security cameras are named for the dome-shaped structure. Dome cameras are widely used in many places including inside and outside the home. You can use it on the ceilings, walls, etc. Dome security cameras may be wired, wireless, hidden or tiny shape too.
Benefits of Dome Cameras are,
- 1. Wide viewing angle.
- 2. Maintaining Low Profile.
- 3. Easy Installation.
- 4. Day and Night Surveillance.
2. Bullet Camera
The bullet camera is named for its look, bullet shape. This camera is most suitable for wall or ceiling mounting. It is an ideal choice for entrances such as a porch area where it works very well pointed in one fixed direction. It doesn’t move or change the direction as PTZ camera does. Negative point is that intruders can see the coverage direction.
From a technology perspective could be IP Network cameras or analog bullet security cameras, and some of them support IR night vision. It supports advanced technologies, for example, optical zoom, motion sensors or thermal sensors, etc.
Below are some benefits of it,
- 1. Multiple options of mounting
- 2. Supports many technologies like wired, IP, dual-band wireless, MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output) etc.
- 3. Visibility and weatherproof. You can install those easily outside in severe weather conditions.
3. Discreet Camera
Dome Camera and Bullet cameras are very obvious cameras and can be seen by any intruders. Discreet cameras are installed in a way that it would be hard to notice so that intruders could not notice them. Camera body design and connecting technology (wired or wireless) plays a great role to hide those. The best place to hide these cameras is inside a planter or in the tree etc.
4. Pan Tilt and Zoom Camera(PTZ)
Most cameras are pointed in One Direction after installation; these are fixed to cover a specific area all the time. But Pan Tilt and Zoom cameras can be pointed in any direction with the help of remote control. When it is installed and set correctly, you’ll be watching from sitting inside.
It is very useful for outdoor coverage of a large area, a pan, tilt, zoom security camera which is called PTZ camera, has the ability to capture and move in different angles. PTZ cameras have the capability of doing the job of multiple fixed-sight cameras, it is a big advantage in some situations. A PTZ security camera can be pre-programmed or controlled by an operator in a remote location.
5. Infrared/Night Vision Camera
Night vision devices have been around us for more than forty years, and they’ve gone through multiple improvements today. These have been used for everything from military applications to navigation and Wildlife observation etc. With a good night vision device, you can see a person standing over 200 yards away in the almost cloudy night.
Most of night vision devices rely on two technologies,
- Image Enhancements.
- Thermal Imaging.
Both produce the same result but works in a different way.
Night vision cameras are equipped with infrared illuminators. They are intense infrared LED lights located around the camera’s lens, it cast infrared light considerable distances.
Night vision surveillance cameras Imaging sensor can see the infrared light which the human eye cannot see. So during the day that day and night cameras provide crisp and clear full-color video but in the night vision mode, the camera provides extremely detailed black-and-white video. When the natural light level increases in the morning the camera automatically switches back to the full-color video.
6. Weather-Resistant Cameras
Weather-resistant cameras are not a category, but it is a feature that the camera can perform in a certain weather condition. Usually, indoor cameras can’t be installed outside as its body design and material used to build it, does not support extreme high or extremely low temperatures.
If you are looking for an outdoor camera, make sure it supports a good range of temperature range. For example, if you are in New York, make sure that outdoor camera supports -40 to 110 Fahrenheit. Similar way if you live in Florida, make sure it supports -10 to 120 Fahrenheit.
7. Turret Cameras
It is called the eyeball camera too. Turret cameras body design is similar to a dome camera, but it looks different. These are easy to install. Turret cameras do not get onto a junction box just like a dome camera. You may need to buy an adapter to have a fit, but it depends upon the manufacturer.
Bullet vs Dome Camera
Why Do We Need Security Cameras
Benefits Of Using Security Cameras For Home
Installing CCTV Security camera is an investment to your future security. These are the points to make you realize that you need a security camera or not.
CCTV Camera makes sure the safety of the home while you or away from home. You could monitor your property from remote too.
Identify unauthorized persons- Study shows that there are potentially fewer chances of burglary if you have CCTV security cameras are installed at your property.
The security camera system has the option to alert you about any unsuspicious activity happening around your home or property. Finally, no need to say how important it could be in some situations.
Benefits Of Using Security Cameras For Business
In many commercial centers, many people converge and carry on with their shopping as well as trading in public as one of the common market. There are some of the factors that contribute to security threats in commercial business places. Therefore, it is essential to determine some of the security vulnerabilities in business centers, and they are as follows:
The following are the reasons why business security is important,
- Business security reduces the issue of theft activities in the workplace.
- It increases the business production since the management will work under no pressure from the threats.
- It helps in monitoring the activities carried out in the workplaces.
- It helps in authentication access of the business members in private places.
- It reduces unauthorized access through monitoring the company members’ identifications such as the use of Identity Cards.
- It reduces the crime threats in the company.
Business Vs Home Security Cameras – Differences
Generally, surveillance cameras are categorized into two categories,
- Professional grade Security Camera.
- Consumer-grade Security Camera.
Both are designed to target a very different type of surroundings. Professional-grade cameras are simple to understand, it is designed for the very best performance, and the prices are calculated based on the cost of those Electronics. DVR, Camera, cable, etc., all the components are designed to survive for a long time, even in severe weather too.
Consumer-grade cameras are usually designed by manufacturers targeting the selling price. What I mean to say that the manufacturer’s target is to cut down the cost as much as he can. First, they select the selling price first, and then they design and build the electronics to fit within that sell, result, you won’t get the premium quality components like DVR, NVR, cable, etc with home-grade security camera systems.
Home grade camera equipment is sold through big box stores such as Costco, Sam’s Club, Walmart and it’s also sold online through Amazon and eBay, etc.
How To Install Home Security Cameras
It is a surprising fact from alarm.com that the burglary takes place about every eighteen seconds in the United States which means approximately 4,800 burglaries every day. As everybody agrees, no matter what, that security cameras can help to stop or minimize the home break-ins and can keep your family, and property safe from vandals and burglars. However, installing the security camera might sometimes be challenging, but here are some thoughts about placing your security cameras.
No matter which security camera you buy but placing it in the right position makes huge differences.
So, if you place the camera in the right place, it boosts your security. If you put it in the right place, then catching thieves and chances of avoiding any crime would be much better.
Here are some locations where you can place the security camera.
Outdoor Places To Install
Location of placing cameras
- Front Door
- Back Door
- Windows that are not covered by Front Door.
- Garage
- Basement
- Second floor
- Driveways
At The Front Door.
If you have two levels in your home, then placing the camera at the second level (and yet it should cover the door area) would be the recommended way to install. It covers the whole area as well as intruders can’t break it as it would be a little high.
Make sure you have night vision enabled too. Having a 4K camera gives a crystal-clear video, I recommend installing 1080p or 4K resolution surveillance camera.
At The Back Door.
Burglars love to enter the home through the back door. The same for the side door, if you have one. You should install a night vision camera at the back door and side door. Install the camera a little high so that burglars can’t reach and temper this camera.
Install Surveillance Camera near windows if it is not covered by Front or Back door.
You must have heard the stories of breaking the windows and the looting home by burglars. More than 20% of burglars break the windows and enter int home. I recommend you install a day and night camera near the windows. If the window does not cover the front door, you should think to install one.
Other Places to Install.
If you follow the above recommendations, then you might have secured your front door, back door, and windows. However, there are other places where burglars might enter, or you may need it to monitor the activity.
- Garage
- Car Parking near the garage.
- Basement – Just to monitor the activities going on.
- Second floor. Garden (if you have one).
Now you might be thinking How many security cameras do I need to cover all these areas? However, the answer is very straight forward; it depends upon your need and house structure, where you want to secure the place, or you want to monitor. Indoor Places to Install
Indoor Places to Install
These are the places where you can install the camera for monitoring purposes.
- Baby room
- Dining area
- In the kitchen
- In the garage
- Porch or doorstep
- In the basement.
- First floor.
Popular Security Camera Brands & Products
Ok! I am sure by now you are well aware of the various types of security cameras and surveillance systems. I am going to let you know a few leading brands in the surveillance world. These leading companies manufacturers the best outdoor/indoor security camera systems.
1. SWANN
Swann is a leader company in surveillance and security monitoring technology. Swann’s is known for manufacturing wired, wireless and wireless technology including High Definition security cameras. Swann provides a high-quality video security system.
SWANN’s products are available at various stores like Best Buy, Amazon online, Samsclub, Costco, etc.
These are the features which are,
- SWANN security camera supports up to 4K Ultra HD Night Vision which provides to see every detail and protest your home/business.
- Swann’s security camera can detect heat and motion.
- It sends a notification when it detects heat like people or cars.
- It can capture up to 100ft/30m Viewing distance and have Viewing Angle: 75°
- Can work 24*7.
- Its has Camera Outdoor Rating: IP67 and Weatherproof body.
- It comes with up to 4GB pre-install hard disk drive size.
- It supports CAT5E Network Cable.
- Provide 12 Months Warranty.
- Its can directly save images to my dropbox account.
- A command can be given by google assistance and chormocast.
These are the best selling CCTV products from SWANN.
If you wish to learn more about Swann security cameras reviews, please click the link.
| Sr No. | Product Name | Price($) |
| 1 | Swann 16 Channel HD Security System Kit (Bullet Cameras). 1080 Pixels. | Check Price |
| 2 | Swann 8-Channel IP Surveillance System System. 4K. Model #SWNVK-880004-US | Check Price |
| 3 | Swann 8 Channels Ultra HD NVR Security System. | Check Price |
| 4 | Swann Full HD 1080P Wi-Fi IP Camera. Weather-resistant Camera System. | Check Price |
| 5 | Swann Wireless Pan & Tilt Security Camera. PTZ Camera System. | Check Price |
Swans surveillance systems are robust and come with various models, few I am listing here. 1080 Bullet and Dome cameras, 16, 8 and 4 Channels. Preinstalled with HDD(optional), Network Video Recorder (NVR) and Digital Video Recorder (DVR), Weatherproof and Aluminium body frame, Night vision and Infrared sensors for a clear view in the night. PTZ cameras can be controlled with remote control, supports wireless Pan Tilt and Zoom Technology.
You may visit https://www.swann.com/us for more information.
2. ANNKE
It is known for manufacturing wireless security systems like IP camera systems for small businesses, wireless security camera systems for commercial, etc. and is striving to become a leader in professional security based on cloud computing and Internet of Things technologies (in short IOT).
These are a few features that Annke provides,
- Annke’s security camera best feature is its starlight camera which is Its unique ability to see in low light condition.
- It provides up to 3MP DVR with the 1080P HD security camera.
- Annke’s camera has a large aperture lance, which gives me a clear vision. As well as it has a larger target surface.
- Its infrared camera has high photosensitivity than other cameras. It has a fantastic clear night vision capacity even in the deep night. It can cover up to 100ft in the night.
- It provides up to 1TB HDD storage capacity which means it can record for 816 hours continuously.
- It can mark out motion area detection to minimise false alarm. If any motion detects, it sends a quick email with snapshot and push-notification.
- It provides a lifetime email support and 3years warranty and 3-month money back guarantee.
- I can access it on my phone quickly.
- Straightforward Interface.
- Weatherproof body.
These are the best selling CCTV Surveillance products from ANNKE.
| Sr No. | Product Name | Price($) |
| 1 | Check-Price | |
| 2 | Check-Price | |
| 3 | Check-Price | |
| 4 | Check-Price | |
| 5 | Check-Price |
ANKKE Surveillance cameras are equipped with new generation technology like Smart home integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices.1080 pixel clear quality images, Full night vision up to 100 feet, Email alert with screenshots, Comes with preinstalled Hard Disk Drives HDD, robust weatherproof design. PTZ cameras are excellent and can be controlled remotely. These surveillance cameras support H.264+, TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS technology.
You may visit https://www.annke.com for more information.
3. ZMODO
Zmozo was established in 2009, has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality video products including surveillance cameras and security cameras. It has a good name in manufacturing the best outdoor security camera system for home and business as well as the quality product which is the best outdoor wireless security camera system I suppose. Zmodo is one of the few smart home companies that use its hardware and has a prominent user base.
These are the best selling CCTV products from ZMODO.
You can find out detailed reviews of Zmodo Security Cameras.
You may visit https://www.zmodo.com for more information.
4. NETGEAR
Netgear is known for realizing the ideas into innovative networking products that connect people, helps the businesses to advance. It is a leader to make the smartest home in the neighborhood and has many products including Security cameras for home and business. It is a known company to make wireless security camera systems for small businesses as well as the best high quality wired camera for home and outdoor monitoring.
These are the best selling CCTV products from Netgear.
You may visit http://netgear.com for more information.
5. REOLINK
Reolink is manufacturing IoT Internet of things related to security devices and has an excellent reputation in manufacturing wire-free security cameras systems.
WireFree Surveillance Cameras: It is ultimately the wire-free and powered by a battery. Installation is quite simple and easy and has the various option of mounting the cameras.
Wired Surveillance Camera Systems: REOLINK is an expert in manufacturing WiFi and PoE surveillance video systems that offer Smart home integration options, night vision, and other exciting features.
Wireless – PoE Cameras, NVR & DVR: REOLINK offers Network Video Recorders With 4Mega pixel or 5Mega pixel super HD high resolution, WiFi and PoE cameras keep an eye every point where you need.
Indoor Smart Home Technologies: REOLINK offers products with 4K super HD, dual-band WiFi, motion detection, PTZ cameras with broader angle coverage, etc.
These are the best selling CCTV products from Reolink.
You may visit https://reolink.com for more information.
6. UNIDEN
UNIDEN was established in 1966, Uniden continues to be a leading developer of today’s most cutting-edge technology. It provides high-quality consumer electronics including Security cameras for home and business need not say that one of the best wireless security camera systems for business and home.
Uniden has headquarters in Texas, Tokyo, Japan and regional headquarters in Sydney, Australia.
These are the best selling CCTV products from Uniden.
You may visit https://www.uniden.com for more information.
7. LOREX
Lorex Technology is a Chinese-owned company that is a leader company in manufacturing audio and video surveillance systems. Lorex manufactures products for small business and consumer markets primarily in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
These are few features that Lorex cameras are known for.
- Dome and Bullet cameras to achieve all types of needs.
- Night Vision, 4K and 1080p. Weatherproof.
- PoE and wireless both technologies.
- Turret Cameras, with 200ft IR Night Vision and Color Night Vision, Indoor & Outdoor use.
These are the best selling CCTV products from Lorex.
You may visit https://www.lorextechnology.com for more information.
8. AMCREST
Amcrest is known for manufacturing advanced remote monitoring and surveillance systems. High quality and robust design surveillance systems help to securely monitor your home, small business or medium to large enterprise.
Security camera systems are designed to record and deliver live video and audio to you anywhere remotely. Their values are to Focus on the customer, and everything else will follow, Be passionate, ambitious, and pursue perfection, Collaborate with Infectious Enthusiasm, etc.
These are a few the best selling CCTV products from Amcrest.
Amcrest surveillance cameras are known for PoE and Wireless technologies. Pan Tilt Zoom up to 12x Motorized Zoom, Ultra-HD Power Over Ethernet. Long night Vision etc.
You may visit https://amcrest.com for more information.
9. VIDEOSECU
VideoSecu is a leading manufacturer of high quality, cost-effective Surveillance systems for home and business. It offers quality products through online retail channels to business and residential customers including wireless, wire-free security cameras, Dome, Bullet, PTZ, etc.
These are the best selling CCTV products from VideoSecu.
VideoSecu Surveillance Cameras supports Night Vision, Day ad Night monitoring with the wide-angle lenses that cover a broad area without zooming. Bonus Power Supply, i.e. A73. 600 and 700 TV Line (TVL). Free Power Supplies, blinking light, and Security Warning feature. Hack proof technology supports large storage of footage: 3.6mm Lens, DVR with Power supply.
You may visit https://www.videosecu.com for more information.
10. Logitech
I believe everybody knows about Logitech as you must have seen peripherals attached to your computer, but Logitech is good for CCTV camera manufacturing too. Logitech Circle 2 is a good known good surveillance camera. You can check it below.
These are the best selling CCTV products from Logitech.
Logitech cameras are suitable for Indoor and outdoor home monitoring. It has the feature like Person Detection, and 24-Hr Free Time-Lapse, etc. and the best part is it works with Amazon Alexa a Google Assistant.
You may visit https://www.logitech.com for more information.
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