Posts Tagged ‘Security Camera’

IP Dome Camera – Understanding How It Works

Uncategorized | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Jan 01 2010

An IP dome camera may be more costly than other security surveillance alternatives but if you understand how it works, you’ll realize it’s one investment that’s worth every penny you’ve paid for.

Auto Iris Varifocal DomeThe Distinction
Let’s get to the appearance first. Dome cameras are generally considered more professional and attractive-looking than other surveillance cameras because its dark-tinted spherical casing is sleek, subtle, and professional – perfect for whatever home or business setting you may have!

In terms of features, IP dome cameras may have virtually all the blings offered by any other type of surveillance camera. But one thing it has that others may not possess is an IP address or a web server all on its own and which allows you to remotely control the unit and monitor the area under surveillance with high-speed Internet connection.

How Exactly Does an IP Dome Camera Work?
An IP dome camera is built to have basic computing functions necessary for it to operate within a given network. It’s basically a camera and a vastly simplified computer combined. Its IP address, on the other hand, is what allows its users to access its data. Think of it as the address you need to post a letter to another person.

For communication purposes, it also has the required programs to work with Web and FTP servers as well as email and FTP clients. The more advanced models may even be combined with motion detection sensors.

When the camera takes an image or video footage, it converts the various light wavelengths that the image or video is made of into analog data. From there, it undergoes another conversion and into digital format this time. The resulting data is then compressed by its built-in computer before sent to the designated network channels.

Transfer and Storage of Data
Depending on your connection preferences, your IP door camera can transfer data using all sorts of modems, Ethernet or T1 connections, or even mobile phone modems.

In terms of data storage, most IP dome cameras have built-in storage drives which, if full, may be programmed to automatically delete the oldest files to make space for new data.

Requirements for Using IP Dome Camera
The basic thing you need is a router. It may be wireless or not, depending on your needs. The router enables your camera to connect with your preferred network.

A static IP address is also very important. Dynamic addresses are okay, but if you want permanent and quick access to your surveillance camera then you’ll need to pay a monthly fee for the use of a static IP address. You will have to contact your Internet service provider for this.

Finally, you’ll need a computer to configure your IP dome camera and to access its stored or real-time data.

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Built-in DVR Security System – One of Your Best Bets

Hidden Camera, Home Surveillance, Self Recording | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 27 2009

A built-in DVR security system is a cost-effective, all-in-one tool that will give your home or business all the protection it needs from theft, vandalism, and other unwanted threats to your property.

Tower Fan DVREasy to Install
Contrary to popular belief, having this type of system will usually render professional installation service unnecessary. Its installation procedure is designed for DIY use, allowing you to set up this system in a short period of time.

Your DVR and monitor are rolled into one unit so there’s no need to worry about which wires should be connected to which port. Thus, all you need to do is find the best location for your system and you immediately have a virtual security guard on call 24/7.

Web-Ready
A built-in DVR security system will lessen your network configuration problems. Its web-ready function will launch itself automatically so any time you need to access it online, you just have to key in the necessary details for login and you’ll be able to view stored or real-time footage over the World Wide Web.

Easy Viewing
Built-in security systems may also come with monitors as wide as nineteen inches, allowing you to enjoy complete range of vision on monitored areas. With this kind of monitor, there’s no need to squint and stick your face to the screen just to determine exactly what the subject is doing.

Also, this type of system will also offer viewing options. You can switch viewing from one camera to another with a push of a button.

Large Hard Disk Space
A built-in security system won’t make you worry about running out of disk space when you’re involved in an all-important surveillance operation. With as much as 320GB hard disk space available for your use, you can look forward to continuous recording for up to 480 days. That’s practically one year and three months’ worth of recording!

Instant Notification
This type of system would immediately send you email notifications if your system is suffering from video loss or motion detection. Instant updates on any malfunction or recognition of possible threats to your property would give you more than enough time to take the necessary action and ensure everyone’s safety.

Best Customer Support
Best of all, the most updated models of built-in DVR security systems come with a guarantee of round the clock lifetime customer support. No matter where you are and when you need it, you can be sure that your built-in DVR security system will always be ready to protect you, your loved ones, and your property.

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Hotel Security – Business Travelers Beware

Alarm System, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 26 2009

Travelling comes with its own risks even if you’re staying at a five-star hotel. Here are several hotel security tips you should keep in mind the next time you go out of town.

Surveillance Concerns
Don’t rely solely on the security system of the hotel. Who knows if the management is in cahoots with potential intruders of your room? Set up your own surveillance system in your room.

Start by performing a bug sweep. This may seem paranoid, but if you believe that there is great interest in what you have stored in your hotel room then there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain with this action. There are also other detectors that can be used to determine presence and location of hidden cameras.

If you are completely assured that your hotel room is secured, the next thing to do is putting it under surveillance. Install wireless, battery-operated hidden cameras in strategic locations. Toss in a dummy camera or two to mislead potential intruders.

16 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording System

Ensure your cameras are web-ready to allow remote and online access your surveillance system. Do not set up your DVR system in your hotel room as this will obviously give you away. Set it up somewhere else and make sure that you will never run out of disk space.

Install alarms and other security devices to prevent unauthorized access and break-ins to your room. Besides doors and windows, vents in your ceiling may also be another way to get into your room so be sure to fortify these as well.

Hotel Security Tips against Employees with Bad Intent
Again, you need to be always on your guard against even the individuals in the hotel’s employ. Hotel-issued keys are not enough. Use manual locks and practice common sense. Consider the tips below.

Do not allow housekeeping or any other hotel employee inside your room if you are not present. Inform hotel management about this to ensure that your room remains safe and secure.

Never leave your room unattended nor unlocked. It only takes a few seconds to create a huge amount of trouble if you know what you’re doing.

If someone requests entry to your room and identifies himself as an employee of the hotel, make sure to double check their identity with hotel management. If you have not made any request for their services, chances are hotels won’t take the initiative to send an employee to your quarters as they are entirely too busy for such fuss. Last but not the least, remember that a uniform does not an official employee make.

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Factory Security – Tips and Guide

Business | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 23 2009

Factories are one of the toughest types of workplace to guard and protect because of the constant number and variety of people that come and go through their doors. Securing the premises and deterring thieves, vandals, and intruders of any kind is difficult but not impossible if you consider implementing the tips below.

8 Channel Wireless DVR Complete SystemClear-Cut Security Plan
No one is above the law and in this case, the law is your factory’s security policies. Employees must be properly oriented regarding the precautions you are taking, the policies required, as well as the repercussions of violating any of these rules.

Strict Implementation
Naturally, you need to reinforce your commitment to these policies by consistently implementing them. These rules aren’t made to be broken if your goal is to maintain the security of your property.

Variety of Security
Human security is excellent at intimidation but it is not altogether perfect. They’ll perform much better if they are aided by an excellent security system. This includes indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras—including covert , decoys and publicly displayed units—entry/exit alarms, motion-detecting sensors, and security lights.

Identity Verification and Consistent Record Keeping
Criminals would be less keen to target your factory if they see that you are meticulous with record keeping. It’s important to know exactly who are entering and leaving your premises. Always verify identification of visitors. It’s a tedious process admittedly, but you definitely need it. Before admitting anyone in, be sure to confirm with the indicated department that they are indeed expecting the visitors you are holding.

Security personnel must also be constantly updated of scheduled or expected arrivals of supplies and any other deliveries.

Last but not the least, record keeping must naturally include inventories. These must be accomplished systematically and double-checked by individuals you trust.

A Way to Mark Property
There are two important ways to establish ownership of home or business property. Those of high value may be registered with a tax license or ID and noted down. Secondly, mark them with a logo using an invisible dye marker. You can purchase this online from any security retailer.

Remain aware any time regarding surveillance by accessing your security system online.

If you are investing in a security system then ascertain that it’s web-ready to provide you online access to your surveillance footage, whether stored or real-time, wherever you may be and whenever you may need it.

With these tips, your factory will be as secure as it can be.

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Board Camera – When Do You Need One

Board Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 22 2009

It’s so tiny you can probably wear it disguised as a pendant and no one would ever know. It’s so tiny in fact that if you’re not careful, you could even use it. A board camera is one of the latest equipment to come out that’s designed to make security easier and surveillance that much more efficient. Think it’s not that much of a gadget for you? Here are the top situations when you’ll need a board camera to pump up your viewing and surveillance capabilities.

Black and White Closed Board CameraEquipment for super-covert surveillance
There’s surveillance and there’s covert surveillance. You can easily tell one from the other by their conspicuousness. If a person can detect they’re being filmed or that there’s a camera hiding behind that flower vase or picture frame, you’re not really doing a good job as a spy.

For highly surreptitious surveillance you will need a board camera. It’s thin and light enough to be mounted on just about anything — a cigarette case, a stuffed teddy bear, a cookie jar, even a key chain — and still be difficult to notice. So if you want to improve your spying abilities or just simply want a better nanny or hidden cam, a board camera is your best choice

A lightweight camera that’s unobtrusive enough to be used for your hobbies
Board cameras are also efficient to use for hobbies such as DIY security equipment and robotics. If you’re a hobbyist, this is the best type of camera you’ll want to work with because it can easily be mounted, tweaked and turned on. It also gives superb video quality, allowing you to take great footages 99% of the time.

A camera you can take to your playground and back
Whether it’s driving a motorbike through mud and dirt or going cross-country on a bicycle, it’s always a good idea to get footage from an angle no cameraman can shoot from: under the saddle or mounted on the handlebars. Kept within solid casing, spruced up and weather-proofed, a board camera can also be used for a variety of sports such as surfing, wakeboarding or even skydiving.

For home and business security
If you need a reliable camera for home or business security, the board camera is one of the most affordable and efficient cameras you can buy. Retailers frequently sell them discounted, allowing you to purchase several cameras even on a budget. Since they’re easy to mount and can pretty much work from anywhere in the house, shop or office, you can build a highly customized security/surveillance system without the usual expense.

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Dome Camera – Tips on How to Maximize Its Use

dome cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 16 2009

The dome camera is easily one of the choice security systems to use with business establishments. It’s small and unobtrusive yet very effective in monitoring a room or an area. Learn to maximize the use of this security gadget to enhance and improve the security of your business. Here are ways how:

dome cameraLocate the right area prior to installation
The dome camera can be installed on a wall or on the ceiling. Before installing one, try to survey the premises first to determine where the camera should be placed for the best angles. Would you like it to monitor the doorway or the cashier’s corner or would you rather that it focuses on high-end items next to the wall? Remember that what the camera will see is ultimately what will appear on the monitor and get recorded, so choose the best location for the device.

If you will be using multiple dome cameras to cover wider spots, plan your installations carefully. Be aware of blind spots especially with single-focus lenses. If you want more flexibility, consider getting a vari-focal dome camera that can be panned a full 360 degrees. This will offer you a good view of the entire room or shop. Because the lenses can be adjusted, you can change your viewing angle from narrow to wide, depending on what you want to see.

Night surveillance considerations
If you want to secure your business at night but don’t want the extra strain to your pocketbook for keeping the lights on or spend money in hiring security personnel, consider using this type of security camera with a night vision. This type of camera will be able to capture images at low light conditions or even in total darkness. Cameras that are meant to work in day or light mode only will not do as well for this type of environment.

If you want efficient coverage for your store or office at low light, check the LUX rating of this type of camera you’re buying. The lower it is, the better it will be for capturing images in dim light or darkness.

Limitations
This device comes with an operating temperature. Always check the environment where they will be placed to ensure maximum utility. If the camera can only withstand temperatures of up to 112oF, make sure that they are not located in an area that will be exposed to temperatures higher than this limit. Otherwise, the camera lens will be damaged.

Protecting the System
If you want to keep your dome cameras safe from vandals, there are units that are especially designed with a tough outer casing. Usually referred to as armor dome or vandal-proof dome cameras, these units can withstand attacks from thieves or burglars who might attempt to break or destroy the unit.

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Security Camera Installation Tips

Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 11 2009

Professional CamerasPurchasing a security camera can be a good way to keep your home or business safe and secure. Of course, they can be costly, but if you are willing to invest, or if you are at least willing to shop to look for the best and most useful brand for your needs, then you will need to look around in as many places as possible. You will also need to ask a lot of security experts about what their opinions are on the different security cameras available. Moreover, you need to weigh your options: are you getting a large camera that is big enough to appear to deter crime, or are you getting a small, almost hidden one that will capture people doing their worst? Are you going to get a wired camera, or a more expensive wireless one?

When you finally get the camera suited to your needs, you will need to install it correctly. When taking the camera out of its box, make sure that you keep tabs over all the manuals and smaller bits and pieces of it. You may need to monitor the camera’s bits and pieces because just in case you lose anything, you can easily replace it with something provided already in the camera box. Moreover, you may need to keep the manual handy so that you can move the camera about and not do any faulty installation that will make you buy another camera again.

Make sure to follow instructions to the dot. Standard instructions depend on which brand you have and where you bought it. Moreover, you will follow a different set of instructions if you are using a wireless vs. a wired camera. Wired cameras will require a little more work. You will need to do some rewiring in your home or office, and you may need the help of a professional electrician to do this. While wireless cameras are a little easier to install, you need to test them constantly to see if cameras and feed equipment are communicating with each other.

The way to install a camera properly depends largely on what kind of camera you have. There are several standard points to remember, however. Make sure that you capture as wide a scope as possible, but make sure that this is not too wide so as to leave a large blind spot for invaders to go through. You may consider setting your camera on corners, so that you have a wider scope to monitor.

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Security Camera Tips on How to Properly Install

Home Surveillance, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 19 2009

Motion Detector Hidden CameraMost homeowners do not feel skilled enough to install a home security system on their own.  But now that manufacturers have made home surveillance systems more affordable and easier to use, they have also successfully taken the complicated procedures out.  So would you want to DIY?  Here’s how to install a home security camera the proper way:

Getting Familiar
There are general features found in all home security cameras but certain functions differ depending on the brand and model.  Before attempting to install the device, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the equipment.

If you’re using a wired type, for example, careful planning is important to ensure the optimal placement of the camera.  Wired systems will sometimes require you to drill holes on walls and if you make a mistake, it could mean time and effort wasted, not to mention extra expense on the repairs.

Wireless ones don’t always require a lot of work, so they pretty much rely only on correct placement and location.

Where to Place
Location will dictate how effective your home security camera will be.  Before installing the camera, try to survey your home or office and decide which locations require surveillance.  In general, you might want to consider installing the camera in areas such as the front door, back door, patio or hallway.  If you have a backyard or a pool and want to monitor your children’s activities in those areas, you might want to consider placing a security camera there.

Placement is also important.  Consider the height, direction and angle of the camera.  This is a particular concern if you’ll be using a stationary unit.  If the camera automatically pans or tilts, consider only the height and direction.  Decide whether or not the area you wish to monitor is sufficiently covered.

Power Source Info
If you’ll be using a home security camera that will rely mainly on an electrical power source, you will have to install it near a power outlet.  If that is impossible, you might have to consider using an extension, provided of course that it’s safe.

Caution, Caution, Caution
If your home security camera comes with a warranty, be careful about damaging the product.  Breaking open any seal or misplacing certain components during do-it-yourself installation could void the warranty, which means you will have to pay for replacements or repairs.

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