Video Surveillance Security Systems

Video surveillance security systems offer the assurance of safety as well as the ease of use desired by most homeowners and businesses. There are many things to consider when looking at the wide range of products available, however focusing on the use, maintenance, reliability, and cost of each option. Depending on whether the unit will be used in a home or business will drastically change the view of maintenance and special features offered. A home video surveillance system creates the assurance that a home is safe from burglars, fire, carbon monoxide, and maintenance problems.

This type of technology can aid in reducing shrinkage by catching shoplifters, deter potential thieves, monitor cash registers, record evidence to prevent bogus accident claims, identify visitors and employees, monitor hazardous work area, increase security in and around business premises and parking lots, and meet insurance requirements. If consumers know that video surveillance security systems are in use they will think twice before trying to shoplift. This creates a more positive environment for the merchant, which motivates better business. When a setup is used to watch cash registers the merchant can gain a better idea of employee theft and innocent errors, which leads to better management and overall business. If filing an insurance claim is necessary these videos can provide adequate evidence for accurate reporting. Even a home video surveillance system can aid homeowners when filing insurance claims.

Deciding the motive for purchasing such technology will persuade the ultimate purchase. If the motive is to catch shoplifters then hidden cameras are better. If the point is to deter shoplifters then large visible cameras work better. In most cases the large visible cameras are less expensive, but only if it pacifies the need for video surveillance security systems. Another big decision in choosing the right technology includes the quality of pictures taken. Choices range in pixels and color quality. Pixelated pictures can alert a business owner or homeowner of suspicious activity, however knowing who or what is seen can be difficult. This low quality technology is cheaper than TV quality products, but obviously has its setbacks. One feature to look for is the Charged Coupled Device (CCD). This is the best way a person can get the most for as little money as possible. Likewise the size of camera makes a difference in the quality/cost ratio. The best systems have cameras between 1/4 and 1/3. Larger cameras may allow more light exposure, however they cost more and may not be worth it depending on the specific situation. If a store has bad lighting then the owner may consider a camera up to 1. Another difference in cameras is whether it is color or black and white. Over the years the cost of color monitors has dropped considerably and may be worth the slight extra cost for the dramatic added detail. Likewise consider the type of additional security within and outside the building before making a purchase. If someone will be watching the tapes as they are recorded, the meaningless tapes can be discarded or other measure of security can be used.

Other components are required for optimal performance. Video surveillance security systems can only be as effective as the equipment it is used with. The lenses determine the amount of light the camera captures thus creating a maximum of detail the camera can see. If the equipment purchased is of moderate quality then purchasing a high quality lens may not be a good idea due to the overall compatibility of the components. Likewise, the format also determines the detail of the images captured. There are a variety of different types of lenses including fixed focal length lenses, variable focal length lenses, zoom lenses, and motorized zoom lenses. Depending on the budget, motive, and manpower a person can determine the best route for purchase. While a fixed focal length lens can only view a specific area, the cost is significantly lower than any other option. Variable focal length lenses and zoom lenses offer more options, however are more costly then fixed focal length lenses. In addition, an automatic iris offers immediate adjustment from light to dark and back. A home video surveillance system may only want to monitor the entryway in order to avoid the movement of any neighbors or wildlife causing unneeded alarm. "Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another." (Leviticus 19:11)

Depending on the environment in which the equipment will be used, certain protective measure against the natural elements may be necessary. These factors may include constant exposure to the sun, extreme heat, extreme cold, and the type of exposure to customers. If a camera will revolve around a specific area, then a hidden camera is recommended in order to decrease the chance of a shoplifter timing the camera. Video surveillance security systems can save a company thousands of dollars in potential revenue each year. This overall number depends on the size of the store and the price of the items sold. Proper recording will ensure the most effective system whether it be manned by a physical person or simply stored by special programming for later viewing. The type of recording may have a dramatic influence on whether or not to hire someone to watch the videos as they are being recorded. The old fashioned type of home video surveillance system stores the images on VHS tapes, while DVR offers better quality, quicker event locating, multirecording, and a more convenient way to store the recordings.

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