| Surveillance Cameras |
From "Home Tech"
episode HTC-105 |
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Believe it or not, one of the most popular and affordable categories of home security is surveillance. Increasingly, home security systems are employing surveillance cameras to let family members keep an eye on things in and around their home.
Security Camera Options There are a number of types of cameras available, as well as a variety of features that allow you to monitor what's going on at your home whether you're at home or away. Some systems can be equipped with modem-to-modem connections allowing you to log on and monitor your home from anywhere in the world -- using any PC that's connected to the Internet (figure A). More sophisticated cameras utilize advanced technology and features such as a self-adjusting iris or infra-red technology which allows images to be visible even in low-light situations (figure B). An ajusting iris opens the camera's lens aperture wider as the lighting grows darker. Infra-red technology enables the camera to generate images even in near pitch-black darkness. There are two broad categories of surveillance cameras: overt and covert. - Covert cameras are designed to be hidden or disguised so they are undetectable. This makes it easy to observe activities in your home without the individuals being watched knowing about it. Covert cameras are frequently disguised to look like an ordinary household object such as a smoke detector (figure C) or a framed picture. The extra design that goes into covert cameras to make them small or undetectable can also make them more expensive than other types of cameras. They can also be more difficult or expensive to install since they have power cords and cables that need to be concealed as well. Often, installation may involve hiding cables inside walls. Typical charges for for professional installation of these devices range from $50 to $75 per hour.
- Overt cameras are designed to be used where they are clearly visible (figure D). Having cameras that are mounted out in the open can serve as a deterrent to intruders since they essentially advertise the fact that the home is being watched. Once they detect the presence of cameras, potential burglars would be likely to move on to another home rather than attempt a break-in on one that is under the watch of a surveillance system. The obvious disadvantage to overt cameras is that they are not the most aesthetically pleasing addition to your decor, and they may make wanted guests feel uncomfortable.
Cameras come in a range of styles and prices, with price usually being a fairly good indicator as to the level of sophistication, image resolution and overall quality. Some cameras are adjustable (figure E) or can be directed by remote control, while others are fixed. More versatile cameras, and those that can deliver sharp, clear pictures in varying light situations, are predictably more expensive.
Installing Security Cameras One of the appealing factors about surveillance cameras is that systems are available that are easy to set up and connect -- even for novice do-it-yourselfers. If you can successfully hook up a VCR to a TV, you can probably hook up a security camera system. Most cameras send images via BNC cable, which looks similar to ordinary coax cable but has a different style of connector. To hook up a camera you'll need to: - Connect the power cable to a power source.
- Connect the video line to the back of the camera using the BNC connector (figure F). Simply insert the connector and twist until it clicks into place to make a secure connection.
- Connect the other end of the video line to a television monitor or a quad splitter (figure G). A quad splitter allows you to plug in up to four cameras on one system. Once hooked up, you can switch back and forth between the four cameras or view images from all four at once on a split-screen.
- You'll need to devise a way to conceal the cables so they're not exposed. Cables can be run behind drywall or concealed by wood trim, carpet, etc. If this part of the project seems too difficult, you may want to consider having a professional installation.
RESOURCES :
Aegis Security
Aegis Security
Denver , CO 80223
Phone: 303-922-2844
CSI/Speco Security
Web site: www.csi-speco.com
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Home Security
Model: 0028639510
Author: Tom Davidson, Lorna Gentry, Steve McVey
Macmillan / Alpha Books
Website: www.macmillan.com
Home Safe Home: How to Safeguard Your Home and Family Against Break-Ins
Model: 088282113X
Author: Helen Maxwell, Michael Maxwell
New Horizon Press
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