Wireless Surveillance Systems and Home Security

There are some basic differences among home security systems and what are usually referred to as wired or wireless surveillance systems. While wireless surveillance cameras are often a part of a full home security system, their function is slightly different. Many businesses, banks, ATMs and even public locations now have surveillance cameras installed. In some cases they are simply recorded and temporarily stored, only being looked at if there is a question of criminal activity. In other cases they are actively monitored by security personnel.

In the case of home security systems using surveillance cameras, there is often a combination of functions. They be used by residents to verify who is entering the premises or who is at the door. They may also be used for checking that all is well in various rooms inside the home. They can also be used to monitor and record activities within the home (such as a nanny or babysitter) or outside such as a handyman or caretaker. And, naturally, they can be used to record any breakins or other criminal activity.

The major advantages to going with wireless surveillance systems have to do with the ease of concealment and installation, the ability to expand a system into a full home security system, and being able to move your equipment easily. The biggest disadvantage is the need to replace batteries on a regular basis. No wireless surveillance system is going to do you any good if the batteries are dead. Wireless also means that each device must be able to transmit to a receiver through any intervening obstacles such as walls. While most transmitters should have a range of 200 to 300 feet, the range is affected by obstacles and may drop as batteries weaken.

There are different types of wireless surveillance cameras that you can choose from. Older models generally provided black and white images but newer (and sometimes more expensive) cameras provide color images. You do however need to consider the light levels your cameras will need to deal with - generally the very low lux level cameras will be black and white and if you need to cover very dark areas you will probably want infrared capability. You may several different models to cover each of your specific needs. As part of a full wireless surveillance system, each door to the outside and the approaches to the house should be covered by cameras. An ideal setup would provide full coverage of the perimeter of the house. As noted above, you may also want to have surveillance cameras within the house.

The other main components to a wireless surveillance system include door and window alarms and may also include motion detectors connected to either alarms or lights. Active infrared alarms can be used to monitor interior rooms, though the need for line-of-sight transmission and reception can be inconvenient and some such alarms may generate a visible beam which can then be avoided.

A solid, careful evaluation of your security needs will help a great deal in doing the planning for your own wired or wireless surveillance system. You will need to decide if you want to have your system professionally installed or whether you have the skills and time to handle it yourself. It may also depend on whether you are planning a standalone system or want to have a third-party monitored system. Whichever way you go, any type of home security system will enhance your safety and act as a deterrent.

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