Five Features to Look for in Residential CCTV Systems

People choose to install CCTV systems in their homes for many different reasons. They include security, including general surveillance and crime prevention, keeping an eye on household help or providing a safer home for their families. CCTV systems can provide peace of mind for parents who have to leave their little ones alone with a caretaker and homeowners who care about security and protection. Choosing the right CCTV camera, deciding on the number of cameras you need and figuring out where to place them can all lead to a lot of confusion. These suggestions for five important CCTV features can help you choose the right system for your needs.

Color Security Camera

Choose a low-light color security camera for the front of your house. A color camera will capture accurate clothing and vehicle descriptions of anyone coming to your house. You can add less expensive B&W surveillance camera options to the side and back of your house for more coverage.

Lighting Is Important

A CCTV camera with IR emitter will capture good images in low light situations, but they can be expensive. Another option is to combine your security camera with a motion detector floodlight outside your home. The combination will serve to both frighten off intruders and capture them on camera so you can provide the information to law enforcement.

Wireless or Wired?

If your intent in installing a CCTV system is basic security, choose a wired solution. For now, anyway, wireless security camera networks tend to be insecure because the feed can be intercepted from outside your home. Most wireless surveillance camera systems are also prone to interference, making them less than idea. The exception is a wireless nanny cam, where you want to be able to log into your IP based security camera from a remote location.

Windows Based DVR

CCTV systems require a recorder – usually a DVR –  to allow for later viewing of the surveillance camera footage. Windows-based DVRs are easier to use, offer high-resolution recording, intelligent motion detection and auto-alert functions. On the down side, Windows-based DVRs tend to be more expensive than non-Windows-based recording solutions, so if your budget is tight, Windows may not be an option.

Reputable Dealer

There are hundreds of websites offering cheap CCTV systems. You can also pick up everything you need to whip together a DIY CCTV system at your local Radio Shack. If you choose either option, you’ll be missing out on one of the most important features of residential CCTV – knowledgeable salespeople and good support. It’s worth it to pay a little more for quality products and good advice.