Four Things You’ll Want to Know about Home Security Cameras
They Might All Seem Similar, But They’re Not
Home security cameras are all but ubiquitous these days. Popular devices from technology companies like Nest, Ring, Arlo, and more abound, allowing homeowners many ways to keep an eye on their homes while away. And there are professionally installed solutions, usually bringing cameras and systems used in commercial applications to residences.
If you are considering surveillance cameras for your Henderson, NV, home for security and practical reasons (such as keeping an eye on kids or pets), you have many options to choose from. How can you tell what's right for you? Read on for four important things regarding security cameras and surveillance solutions.
SEE ALSO: Fusion Home Systems Can Simplify Your Home Security
Camera Types and Features
There is a wide variety of cameras to choose from for both indoor and outdoor installation. As a good rule, all your cameras should run under the same ecosystem to have consistency in features and interfaces. You'll want to pay attention to the features that matter most to you. Do you need a wide field of view for an outside area? Would you like a camera that can zoom in clearly when motion is detected? Do you need night vision? All these features may or may not be important to you, and some camera features work better than others. If identifying a person at night is critical for an outdoor camera, you’ll want the one that does it best.
Wired or Wireless?
Plug-and-play security is fast and easy, but wireless, battery-powered cameras may not be ideal. Certainly, they work well if you want full recording capabilities, but batteries wear out fast and require frequent recharging or replacement. Also, most consumer wireless cameras require a power connection even if they connect to the network wirelessly.
Professional camera solutions often utilize PoE (power over ethernet), where they connect to your network and draw power through a standard ethernet connection. This type has two excellent advantages: an easy power connection requiring no electrical outlet or wiring and a secure wired connection to your home network. This type may serve you best if you want extensive video monitoring and recording capabilities.
Quality
The features may sound similar across cameras and systems, but they don't always work the same. Some cameras have state-of-the-art hardware but mediocre software, and others have good software applications and features, yet the camera hardware isn't best-in-class. Some consumer cameras only record a few seconds of footage before recording more; they don't have enough processing power onboard. And the security of video footage can also be critical, as products vary in their level of intrinsic security.
Integration
We live in a world of ecosystems, and security cameras are no exception. You'll want a system with excellent integration with other smart home functionality. For example, could motion activity trigger your lights to come on or an alarm? Or when your arm your camera system when you leave, your smart locks secure your doors, the lights turn on and off, and the thermostat adjusts the temperature? The best systems integrate easily with other smart solutions.
Could you use an expert to help with your security camera solution? Get started by reaching out to the team at Fusion Home Systems today! We look forward to working with you.
