New Homes Today Magazine
Video Surveillance Systems for the Home
Cost-effective systems provide homeowners with increased security and safety
By Brad Zellers
Home security has taken a turn for the better, and is no longer restricted to a standard home security alarm system, but has evolved to include video surveillance as well. More than ever, homeowners are concerned with general surveillance, crime prevention and family well being.
Today's cost-effective surveillance camera systems can provide homeowners with an increased sense of security and safety. In areas such as Arizona with large numbers of second homes, many homeowners utilize remote and online video monitoring for its enhanced level of security and property management.
The Basics of a Surveillance System
Cameras should be positioned for both interior and exterior viewing of critical points of access to optimize system effectiveness. Ideally, power and signal cabling is pre-wired during home construction, but quality installations in existing properties are available in wired or wireless device configuration. Video signals from the cameras can be sent to a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) for storage and for remote access if desired.
While wireless cameras are sometimes an option, their use in a home environment is not always ideal. Interference may be caused by other wireless devices such as cell phones and routers. These devices emit their own RF noise that can cause a breakdown in the signal emitted by the camera, so hard wired installations should be used whenever possible.
Color cameras are highly recommended over black and white cameras. They can better capture an accurate color description of the focal area, such as persons or vehicles approaching the home. All cameras should be day/night adaptable and weatherproof for outdoor use.
Homeowners can become frustrated when there is a lack of light or low light at night that limits what can be viewed from their camera system. When working with low light conditions, there are two primary options when choosing camera configuration: Cameras with IR emitters or integrating the use of a flood lights with motion detection for the exterior of the home. A combination of both cameras and motion detector lights is the wisest choice for any home.
Recording Data and Camera Capabilities
Once the cameras are selected, it's time to consider how to record the data and what capabilities are important for the home and the application. VHS recorders have been replaced with digital recording devices. DVRs are capable of motion detected recording and integration with alarm systems, and are Internet accessible so security can be monitored from home.
It's important to do some research to ensure that you're purchasing a camera and DVR made by a reputable manufacturer. Selecting a reputable vendor will ensure available technical support if a problem occurs with the system. Often, paying a little bit more results in a higher quality product that has been developed over time and is less likely to be faulty.
Look for these specifications in a basic residential video system:
- Color cameras with at least 420TVL of resolution and at least 0.5 LUX or lower
- A Full-Chip 1/3" Sony Ex-View CCD or better lens
- DVRs with 3-5 fps for residential surveillance
Making a Good Investment
When making this investment, it's important to evaluate the home and research the best cameras for day and night lighting conditions. Also, consider the intended use of the video system as a security and home management program. Just like a security alarm system, many homeowners are now sending the video feed to a central monitoring station where qualified personnel become an extension of a home's security system. Enlisting the care of a "virtual guard" to watch the premises is most critical when the homeowner is away.
Choosing to integrate a higher level of security technology into a home system is a significant commitment. The proper installation of a quality video surveillance system is a proactive approach to protecting the property and safety of a home. When in doubt, ask an expert to help steer you in the right direction.
Brad Zellers is President of Bolt Enterprises, a leading security integrator serving the state of Arizona, providing design, technology and monitoring services to homeowners, communities and businesses.
