Surveillance Systems

Surveillance systems are another level of security that protects homes, businesses or other buildings. Surveillance systems can help catch thieves and burglars, as well as other people doing things they shouldn't be doing. In some cases, surveillance systems act as a deterrent for illicit activity. If people know they are being watched, they are often less likely to break a rule or law.
 
 
Surveillance systems offer countless options and features to suit the needs of any home or business. Some features include:
  • attached DVRs to store data
  • low-light or infrared capabilities
  • motion sensing
  • panning and zooming
  • small sizes to enable camouflaging
  • vandal resistance
  • wireless cameras.
While surveillance systems with multiple cameras and high-tech features can get pricy, simple surveillance systems with a single camera can start around $100.
 
More cameras and constant memory storage will require more data space and more equipment. Some surveillance systems are equipped to store only the last day or two of data, while others will store data for a week, a month or indefinitely, depending on the user's preferences.
 
Some surveillance systems do not store data, they simply feed the image from the camera to a computer monitor that can be viewed in real-time. This can be handy for workplaces that have a security guard monitoring cameras. Similarly, homeowners who want to see who is at the door before opening it may also benefit from having this type of home surveillance system.
 
Some homeowners and business owners even have surveillance systems just for appearance. The simple presence of cameras, even though they are not on, can be a deterrent of illicit activity.
 
In this section, we'll cover all types of surveillance systems, with a special focus on home security cameras and home surveillance systems.

Home Security Cameras

Home security cameras and systems are becoming more and more popular. Surveillance systems offer peace of mind and make people feel more in control of what's happening in and around their homes.
 
The most popular home surveillance systems are wireless surveillance systems because they tend to be easier to install and conceal. In contrast, wired systems often require construction, time and money to install. Though wireless systems may be a bit more expensive, the added convenience and ease of installation is usually worth the extra cost for homeowners.
 
Many homeowners choose to install simple surveillance systems that have a camera either over the front door or at the front gate. This allows them to view anyone approaching their home or door. While many people like this feature simply because it allows them to avoid door-to-door salesman, others get added peace of mind from knowing that these cameras allow them to see a would-be burglar approaching.
 
In some cases, homeowners will start with one camera and add more at a later date. Other popular surveillance camera locations include:
  • backyards
  • garage entrances
  • in front of large windows
  • over a sliding door entrance.
This is by no means an all-inclusive list. Surveillance cameras can be placed anywhere in or around a home, especially in locations where the home can be entered or broken into.
 
Advanced home surveillance systems can even sense movement and pan to where the motion occurs.
 
No matter what features you're looking for, peace of mind and sense of security can be increased with home security cameras.
 
Resource
 
Geekbooks (n.d.). Surveillance Systems. Retrieved February 28, 2008, from the Geekbooks Web site.