About the controversial implementation and use of traffic surveillance cameras, such as red light cameras and speed cameras, in the state of Maryland and nearby areas. This trend has many Maryland citizens up in arms against their elected government officials who claim that these measures are essential to the safety of motorists. 0708 cat0 3191
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Popularity: 69% [?]
Although the application of closed circuit television (CCTV) security has not changed very much over the past years, the tools and equipment have significantly. Surveillance cameras became smaller, cheaper and better, but the major breakthrough happened in recording equipment. Therefore many customers shopping for complete CCTV monitoring and recording systems are confused by such a verity of available products. Goal of this article is to guide buyers toward best possible and most economical type of CCTV equipment, based on intended implementation and requirements.
Selecting the right surveillance cameras.
It is virtually impossible to describe all types of available CCTV cameras in this short article. We will focus our attention on most popular and widely used camera types instead.
CCTV security cameras produce images using CMOS or CCD (Charge Couple Device) chips. Tiny, very low price CCTV cameras usually use CMOS technology, produce poor quality images and have very poor light sensitivity. Decent quality CCTV cameras use CCD technology. The size of the CCD chip is normally 1/4", 1/3" or 1/2". As a rule of thumb, the larger the size, the higher the quality of the image produced and the higher the price. However, higher density 1/4" and 1/3" CCD chips can now produce as good an image as many 1/3" or 1/2" chips. The number of TV lines in the security camera image is a measure of picture resolution (sharpness). The larger the number of TV lines, the better the resolution and hence, overall picture quality. Standard resolution camera may have 350-380 lines, over 400 TV Lines is generally considered good resolution while over 500 TV lines is considered high resolution. B/W chip cameras produce greater resolution and better light sensitivity, therefore suitable for use in dark areas where light conditions are poor most of the time. On the other hand color cameras offer more realistic and natural picture.
CCTV cameras are usually divided into different types based on the body of the camera used.
Professional grade cameras
Have box type body with the ability to use different types and size of lenses. Exchangeable lenses enable this camera, to monitor objects from virtually any distance. Although for indoor use, they can be used for outdoor when combined with weatherproof housing. They are considered to be the most flexible and widely used by professionals for commercial installations.
Bullet cameras
Bullet cameras are, as the name suggest contained inside bullet shaped housing. Most bullet cameras are weatherproof and sealed without the ability to use different lenses. Great advantage of bullet camera is the small size and integrated design, some bullet cameras will even have infrared LED future built-in. Infrared technology is simply LED light in infrared spectrum (not visible to human eye). This light will illuminate viewing area, making possible monitoring in complete darkness. This is great future, but it only works up to certain distance (usually between 10 and 50 ft. depending on model) Vary simple to install and estheticly designed, bullet cameras are great choice for residential and do-it-yourself installations where monitoring objects are within about 25ft from the camera location (with standard 3.6mm lens).
Board Cameras
Board Cameras are basically fixed lens mounted on a circuit board. These cameras may be packaged in a small case (Mini Cameras) or dome (Mini Dome) or simply sold unpackaged, for mounting by the purchaser. Lenses in these cameras are either of a normal industry aperture or a "pinhole" lens of very small aperture. Pinhole lens cameras are often called "spy" cameras and may be mounted in a concealed way for covert surveillance purposes. The most popular examples of covert board cameras are smoke detector and motion detector cameras. Since the lenses in board cameras are pre-mounted, have a fixed iris and are usually of a short focal length (i.e. wide angle), their flexibility of usefulness is limited. However, this type of camera can provide a low cost solution in the right situation, particularly in a home environment.
We have shortly described most popular types of cameras, lets now discus, how and where they mite be used. Professional type cameras with C/CS mount lens attachment generally offer best performance and many important futures, like lens control output, Back Light Compensation and many more… Distance from monitoring object to the camera is not an issue, that is why ability to select different lenses, based on camera location is so important. Installation is bit complicated and professional installation strongly recommended. We recommend this type of security cameras for commercial installations. Most Bullet cameras in comparison, do not offer high resolution and lens selection flexibility, but are likely to be weatherproof, some will have infrared light built-in and most of all they are relatively easy to implement.
Bullet cameras usually come with 3.6mm lens witch are considered to be suitable for most standard installations (good for covering small to medium size room or equivalent). For larger rooms or longer distances, cameras with 6mm or higher lens may be required. They are great choice for any do-it-yourself installation. Board cameras in contrast are widely used in covert camera installations, sometimes called Spy Cameras. Many wireless cameras are basically board cameras with built-in transmitter.
We are not going to go into wireless cameras right now, as this would be enough material for completely new article. Board cameras are sold as plain circuit board, for integrating into hidden camera devices. They are also available in dome housing, as vary popular Dome Camera or integrated with Smoke Detector, Motion Detector, Exit Sign and so on. Most board cameras also come with 3.6mm lens although some will allow lens to be replaced. Over the time, most practical design has been Dome Camera with its esthetic appearance it blends into surroundings, especially with drop down sealing, great for use in stores, lobbies, gas stations and other public places. Practical solution for covert installation are also, Motion and Smoke Detector cameras, they are absolutely not substitute for your security alarm or fire protection.
Cameras should always be selected based on the location of the camera (inside/outside), distance from the monitoring object, light condition and budget. When shopping for security cameras, customers are faced with the fact that they will need to select one or another recording device. The days of well-known CCTV time-lapse VCR recorder are almost over. Although some customers still prefer this old fashioned recording solution, it is well worth to invest some extra money to purchase a good quality digital video recorder (DVR). Digital recorder transfers analog camera video feed into digital format, and stores it on hard drive. There are two major types of digital recorders on the market right now.
PC Based CCTV Systems
A special board and software installed on the computer will allow camera inputs and store video on the hard drive. Many people are under the misconception that personal computer with additional hardware installed, will do the job. This explains the hundreds of companies that have hung up a sign, taken out some ads and begun working out of basements and garages, holding themselves out to be DVR manufacturers and security specialists. The main problem with this type of CCTV recorders lies in the main component of it… Yes, it is a computer, designed to do unlimited tasks, but non well. The truth is that any computer based digital video recorder is, and will always be vulnerable to software crashes, hang-ups, system instability, virus related problems etc…
Stand Alone Systems
Very similar in appearance and control functions to standard VCR recorders, are truly remarkable devices. Most video processing is done by hardware, therefore eliminating system crashes, video is also stored on hard drive in digital format. The basic operating system, usually Linux, is permanently stored on special processor, witch is impossible to overwrite or corrupt. Designed and manufactured with single application in mind, it is by far better in performance and reliability to its PC based rival. Some DVR systems will even have remote monitoring capability, useful when monitoring is required in different locations thru Internet or network. Most important futures to look for when selecting the right DVR recorder are motion detection and frame speed. The higher the frame speed the more fluent video recording. Motion detection will allow recording video from each camera only when motion is detected this is great for extending video recording time. Security Monitors.
Video from Security recorder could be displayed on regular TV monitor. It is OK to do it this way, for baby monitoring or residential application, when quality of the picture is not that important. However for professional installation, security monitors are as much important as cameras. They offer extended life of picture tube (necessary with any static picture, that can cause picture burnout) and much grater resolution. Cables and wiring. Finally any camera installation will require proper wiring. Good quality cable will prevent video degradation over long distance runs. It is recommended to use RG59 or RG6 coaxial cables as it is fully shielded and will prevent video loss up to 400 ft. Coaxial cables will require BNC connectors and proper installation possibly done by experienced technician. In short runs plug and play non-coaxial cables with factory installed BNC connectors may be used (up to 150 ft.). The plug and play cables are easy enough to install by not experienced users. Cables for CCTV cameras consist of two cables bundled in one jacket. One cable for video and one for power delivery. Conclusion.
Every CCTV system is as good and reliable as its weakest component. With this in mind, investing on highest quality and performance cameras, while purchasing low performance recorder, from economical and practical standpoint just does not make sense. For example, why use cameras with 500 TV lines of resolution with monitor that offers only 380 or less. All the benefit of high-resolution camera is affectively sacrificed by limited capability of monitor. Asking questions is important before purchasing video security system, and your vendor will probably be able to give more details and recommend equipment for specific needs and requirements.
Popularity: 99% [?]
Many people want to have some kind of spy equipment for better home security. However, besides wireless spy cameras, VCR or DVR systems, there is also special software used to control those surveillance gadgets.
Large companies use professional security systems along with already built in (embedded digital video recorder or PC based DVR soft) spy camera control software. But what about smaller guys? Do you also have to spend thousands of dollars for professional spy security system and software to feel safe and secure in your house? And the answer is not necessarily.
Webcam for Spying Purposes
You have the ability to use your webcam (connected to your PC) as a surveillance tool. And to control it, all you need is inexpensive webcam surveillance software. As a matter of fact, such software allows you to connect more than one camera. It can display as much as 16 webcam views on your computer screen.
Moreover, webcam surveillance software even allows you to detect motion and start capturing an event within milliseconds. This means that you dont have to keep your webcam surveillance software turned on all the time in order to secure the area. By using motion detection webcams, you can also save your computers HDD (hard drive) space.
You know, video takes a lot of hard drive space. Non stop recording for 24 hours can cost you 1GB of HDD space a day. Well, it depends on the chosen image quality. Lower quality images will require less bandwidth. Also, if you set lower FPS (frames per second), then youll save even more HDD space.
But if you have a large HDD (like 160GB or more), then theres nothing to worry about.
What to Look for in Webcam Surveillance Software?
Before you decide to order webcam surveillance software, there are a couple of things to consider. Lets take a look at some of the features of webcam software that you should seriously consider, ok.
* Audio Capturing - Does your webcam surveillance software have audio capturing option? If not, then you should consider that carefully. If you want to record a conversation, its crucial.
* Compressed Files - Does your webcam software compress video files? If not, then the space of your HDD might fill up quickly. Try to search for software that compresses the video without losing its quality.
* Remote Access - This is very important. If you leave your webcam to record the area, you should have the ability to access your webcams view via internet connection. This is very neat function that is absolutely must in webcam software.
* Motion Detection - Weve already mentioned that. Motion detection is also extremely important. You dont want to record the area when nothings going on, right. So make sure that motion sensing is enabled in your software.
* Alert Options - Does the webcam surveillance software have an alert option? Some webcam software alert when they detect something. They can alert via email or even dial a phone number. You should seek for this feature, because its very neat.
* Multiple Webcams - Can your surveillance software record a live view from multiple web cameras? 2, 4 or 16? If you want to connect more than one camera to your PC, then multiple webcam support is absolutely must in the software you choose.
* Stealth Mode - Does the webcam software run in stealth mode? Stealth mode means that nobody can see if the software is running or not. Not even if they Press "Ctr+Alt+Del" and look at Windows Task Manager!
Look for webcam surveillance software that allows you to do all or at least most of the functions mentioned above. If your software isnt capable of detecting motion, doesnt have alert option, doesnt have audio recording options, then search for a better solution.
In Conclusion
Webcam software (for spying or home protection purposes) combined with a few inexpensive webcams, can definitely serve as a basic home security system. You can put your webcams in the most important places and have your PC to record each cameras view. And if motion sensors detect something unusual, they can alert you via email or phone.
However, if youre really looking for quality and all-in-one solution for professional home protection, then a more powerful DVR security system with multiple spy cameras could be your best shot. Such systems cost over thousand dollars, but theyre ideal for quality home or office protection.
Popularity: 95% [?]
Video surveillance cameras are more prevalent today than anytime in the past. Their use has surged along with the boom in technology as this new technology becomes cheaper and more sophisticated. There are numerous types and styles of surveillance cameras. For example, there dome cameras, hidden cameras, smoke detecting cameras, and "smart" cameras that are equipped with motion detectors, just to name a few.
Video surveillance cameras are classified according to the technology that is used in their design. CCTV [closed circuit TV] cameras are those that have a completely closed circuit and all the components are connected together. On the other hand, advanced digital cameras are those that connected by a circuit but can be located at any site around the world. Digital video recorders [DVRs] do not need VCR’s and other recording equipment in order to capture or record on-site activities. The software is designed to automatically record unusual activity even in odd hours of the day.
You can find video surveillance cameras used in many different places. They are used in school buses and schools to monitor activities of students. You will also find them being used in retail establishments, public gathering places, traffic reporting, and many more places. Small hidden cameras know as nanny cams have been used successfully by parents concerned about their children’s care from sitters and caretakers. Hidden cameras are also available for sale in ‘brick and mortar ’stores and on the Internet. You find these cameras hidden in clocks, smoke detectors, and soft toys such as a teddy bear, just to name a few.
This style of camera is differentiated according to its effectiveness. A 360-degree revolving dome camera can capture images anywhere on the site. Infrared surveillance type cameras are found used by government and law enforcement agencies such as the SWAT for tailing suspects at night. They too are found mounted in police helicopters to aid them in searching suspects hidden in brush by either day or night.
Detective agencies and security agencies use these cameras to monitor people at their client’s request. It is currently lawful in most areas to install a camera in a common public area and record public activities; however, there is a lot of debate over this subject. Even government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation [FBI] need a warrant in order to carry out video surveillance in private places or homes. Small hand held cameras, also available in the marketplace, help monitor the elderly and in nurseries and preschools where children are kept under watch.
Video surveillance cameras are available in the price range of $100 to $800 for the most part. However, it depends on the complexity of the technology used in them. Well-made fake cameras are also available for as little as $3, which act as deterrents for robbers and thieves but are not recommended in some applications.
Popularity: 96% [?]
Right off the bat, there is certainly a big difference between webcam recording software and webcam surveillance software. Yet, most people tend to confuse these two webcam innovations. So in order to highlight their differences, this article would discuss individual features, functionalities, and learning curves.
Features
Both webcam recording software and webcam surveillance software can record, save, and broadcast videos. Both have options to change settings such as video frame rate, video size, color, and video quality. However, webcam surveillance software has security features, such as motion detection, video and audio alarms, and time-lapse recording. With motion detection, anything that moves at home while everyone is asleep is recorded and saved in your home computer. Then it alerts you via email, and with the time-lapse recording feature, you can easily rewind your surveillance video to any specific time stamp so that you will know what went on.
Functionality
Webcam recording software only lets you record and save your videos in your computer. The output video can be saved in various video formats, such as .avi and .mov, so that you can watch them using any media player. You can also send your videos, via email or FTP. Some recording software also support video chat. RCRsoft’s Active Webcam and Soft29’s oRipa Yahoo! Webcam Recorder are some examples.
On the other hand, webcam surveillance software is mainly used to run home security systems. It does not really take much to put up your own home security system. All you need is a home computer, Internet access, a webcam, and surveillance software, such as HomeCamera and WebCam Monitor v 4.30. Because there are certainly no security features in most webcam recording software, it only works as a key add-on to turn your home computer into a video capturing device. It is a must-have for people who have online video blogs, for those who like to chat via video, and for those who are fond of uploading their videos to websites such as YouTube and Google videos.
Learning Curve
Because it appeals to a greater number of people, webcam recording software tends to be very simple and user-friendly. Its graphical user interface (GUI) is easy to use and navigate. So it would not take you long to record videos with your webcam. However, there is a longer learning curve in webcam surveillance software because there are various technical matters to consider, especially if you are dealing with multiple-camera home security systems. You really have to be sure of what you are doing when using it because the safety of your family and your home is at stake. Because of this, you may have to talk to a professional to make sure that your home security system is working well.
Having spotted the significant differences, you now know that if you want to just record and send videos, you need to use webcam recording software. But if you want to turn your home computer into a nifty home security system, you have to use webcam surveillance software.
By: Nahshon Roberts
Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide now to learn more about webcam recording software, fake security cameras, and any IP network camera.
Popularity: 100% [?]
Surveillance cameras come in various varieties. The variety is so large that the spread and specifications seem daunting when you actually want to buy one. There obviously has to be a manner in which the process of deciding on a surveillance camera is made easier. And there is!
The first thing that you need to do is to decide the specific reason that you want the indoor or outdoor security camera to achieve. Do you want to keep a track on what the family is doing or do you want to keep a close eye on the workers on a construction site? Almost all public places have a surveillance camera to monitor activities and today it is unlikely that you will find a mall, a garage, a school or university that does not have a surveillance camera. The other thing that you need to decide is whether you want to monitor the output from the camera at a remote location through a computer or while you are sitting in another room with a Close Circuit Television (cctv).
With new technology, wireless surveillance cameras are becoming more popular by the day. These are most efficient since they are easy to install. No ugly wires collect in a bundle and cause dust to accumulate. Wireless surveillance cameras are also convenient to move around in case you want to use it in a room other than the regular one.
However, if you want to install the surveillance camera in the outdoor, there is no better option than the solar powered surveillance camera. This is so because solar powered cameras do not need to be pulled down every now and then to be charged. The solar cells last for about two years and are self sufficient in terms of making the surveillance camera work.
One thing however is extremely essential to note for solar surveillance cameras and also for all outdoor surveillance cameras. These cameras need to be made from sturdy materials that can stand the sun, rain, dust and snow.
Today the solar powered surveillance cameras are so sophisticated in their specifications that they are designed to provide safety and convenience. Some of these can transmit color images to the receiver. The solar powered cameras can detect heat and movement up to 25 feet and more. With such a range the number of cameras that you may need to install in the facility also reduces.
The solar powered surveillance cameras are in fact the right solution for any kind of surveillance requirement. Not only are they convenient, the technical specifications match any other. With these installed, you can rest be assured of the fact that you shall be able to see and monitor the activities in the areas you want to.
By: Steve Thibeault
TBO-TECH is a company dedicated to help you defend yourself in the time of need. Other than a wide range of pepper sprays, stun guns and batons, the company also provides martial arts weapons, home and personal alarms, hidden safes, spy gear and fun sporting products like slingshots and blowguns. For more information log on to TBO-TECH and you will never have to feel insecure again.
Popularity: 99% [?]
If you want take your webcam security system up a notch, you need to have a very effective, easy-to-use, and fully functional webcam security system. With all the available webcam security systems out there, picking the best one for your home is a daunting task. Here are a few tips to help you choose the webcam security software that’s perfect for you.
Read About It
It is a very good idea to read product reviews and user opinions in various websites on video surveillance. You can also find product reviews in computer magazines. By doing a little research on webcam security software that you’re interested in, you’d get to know more about the product, its features, its price, its efficiency, and its functionality. The information that you will get out of these reviews will greatly influence your choice on what webcam security software to use.
Know Your Hardware
You should also check your personal computer and your webcam if it meets the minimum requirements for the webcam security software to run. Again, this can be done through research. Most software reviews will tell you what you need. You have to take note of requirements such as computer processing speed, RAM (Random Access Memory), operating system (whether the webcam security system would run on Windows or MAC), and webcam compatibility. If you are shopping in a store, you can always find a list of minimum requirements on the box of the webcam security software.
Seek A Techie’s Advice
If you are a beginner, it would be a great idea to go talk to the techies at the computer shop. Tell them what you need, so that they can recommend the right webcam security software for you. If you have a friend who already has a webcam security system at home, you can also ask him. Chances are, your friend will be able to recommend the right webcam security software for you.
Compare Products And Their Prices
Now that you have all the information that you need, it is time compare the different webcam security software available and their respective prices. Now, you may come across two products which offer the same features and functionality, but with different prices. Before you go for the cheaper webcam security software, try to consider the perks that goes along with the more expensive product. 24-hour tech support, warranties, and quality often come with expensive products. If you can afford the pricier webcam security software, go for it. If not, you would be running the risk of buying a low-quality product. But then again, there are lots of webcam security software that are very affordable. Ultimately, research plays a key role in the products that you will buy.
These are just some ways to find the best webcam security software for your home. Being able to get the best webcam security software for you relies heavily on your knowledge about the product. Using the best webcam security software for your home will surely be worth your time and money.
By: Nahshon Roberts
Need information on webcam security software, CCTV security systems, and hidden surveillance cameras? Visit Video-Surveillance-Guide now.
Popularity: 96% [?]
