Security camera systems are the perfect home security choice for those who want to know exactly what is going on in and around their homes. Although they may be more expensive than simple alarms, they offer extra protection and peace of mind.
What exactly is a video security camera system and how does it work? It's not too technically complex. One or more small cameras are placed in and around your home, where they monitor what is happening. Both wired and wireless security cameras are available. These cameras can be linked to your television or computer so you can watch the action. You may or may not link them to a recording device which records activity either continuously, when motion is detected, or when you choose.
Your Options
Real vs. Dummy Video Security Cameras
If cost is an issue but you like the idea of cameras as a deterrent, you may consider a fake system. Modern dummy security cameras are inexpensive and surprisingly convincing. Many have false cables and flashing LED lights that make them look just like the real thing.
Black and White vs. Color Security Cameras
Black and white security cameras are traditionally less expensive than color systems, although the price difference has narrowed recently. A color camera allows for better identification of people and things. For example, you may be able to tell police that your burglar was wearing a red sweatshirt or driving a yellow car, rather than simply saying a dark sweatshirt or a light-colored car.
Black and white is actually better for capturing video in low light, which is when a burglar is most likely to be active. Some systems will actually change from color during the daytime to black and white at night.
Hidden vs. Shown Video Security Cameras
As a potential deterrent, it is clearly better to have the video camera in plain view. If your home security plan, however, includes secretly monitoring activity in and around your home, you may want hidden cameras. These can be hidden very discreetly in common household or yard objects, but their compact size comes with a bigger price tag.
Wireless vs. Wired Security Cameras
Traditional video security cameras are linked by cables to the recording unit and viewing device and are fine if you don't ever plan on moving the cameras. That said, wireless cameras confer a couple of important benefits: they can be moved - which is useful if you plan to move yourself or if you wish to monitor activities which are seasonal, such as a swimming pool - and there are no ugly wires that may detract from the aesthetics of your home.
Day / Night vs. Infrared Video Security Cameras
Cameras that are labeled as day / night systems do not record perfectly in darkness. They may capture images in low light but are inferior to infrared systems in perfect darkness. You may also upgrade a traditional video camera system with an infrared illuminator which will allow you to capture images in the dark.
Security Camera Pricing Options
So how much does all this cost? The prices of video security cameras have come down a lot recently because of their popularity. You're probably looking at between $75 and $250 for each camera, between $250 and $600 for a VCR recording system, or between $700 and $1400 for a DVR recording system. On top of this, you should consider professional installation, which varies in cost depending on the complexity of your system.
Consider the cost a form of insurance. A good security camera system will last as long as you keep your home or longer and provide excellent protection against unwanted activity.