Security Camera Systems Reviews

Security cameras receive many reviews on whether they are good or bad, it’s always a good idea to look at reviews on the system you plan to install.  The company that will install your system if they are good they will be willing to offer customers reviews on their systems as well as the service they give.

When deciding to install a security camera system, get quotes from different companies, then do some comparisons with the various quotations,  it does not always pays to choose the cheapest, what  you need is a balance of price and service,  both are important.

Search for reviews

Once you have the various quotes, then it’s a good idea to look at the various reviews on the systems recommended, this should give you a good idea on how good the systems is,  people who put reviews on websites either like the systems, or if they have a problem with it they will also state their experience.   If you come across reviews that are negative regarding a recommended system by a company you received a quotation, contact the supplier and ask them about the reviews, at the same time contact the other suppliers and ask their view on the product recommended.

Sometime a system has received a number of bad reviews, manufacturers take note of these reviews and use them to improve their systems.   Find out if the systems has been recently updated, this can often indicate that the manufacturer has taken note of problems expressed, and fixed them, and thus, you could find that the recommended security camera system is vastly improved.

SCS CCTV’s technicians are highly experienced and have studied the security market thoroughly, because the continually read and update the knowledge about the various security camera systems and check on security camera systems reviews in a regular basis they are fully aware of problems and situations, and they work hard to ensure that any security camera system they recommend will give you excellent service and they also offer first class bask up service as well.  Contact SCS CCTV today, get a obligation freed quote today.

Cameras Installer in Los Angeles

Cameras Installer in Los Angeles

If you are looking for a camera installer in Los Angeles you will find some good companies that have professional installers, who can design, install and configure a system that is just tailor made for your requirements.

Visit our show rooms and ask for a live demonstration of the many available security camera systems, then discuss with the representative that does the demonstration for an appointment to visit your premises for an obligation free quotation.

We will send out an expert in security camera systems installation. Our professional installers are highly experienced in all aspects on securing a home or business premises.  You can rely on their vast knowledge of the most up to date and modern systems that will ensure that your premises are well guarded at all times to ensure you have peace of mind without being out of pocket with too expensive installations.

Why do you need to have an expert visit you?

It is important that when deciding to install a camera security system you have the correct number of cameras of the correct type, installed for maximum security.  That’s where our experts use their vast database and knowledge to help you with the correct equipment.  The visit to your home is to evaluate your premises and make suggestions for the complete installation.  They will give you a written quotation on which you will be able to make that important decision.

Depending on the type of system you choose, you will be given a quotation of how much caballing needs to be installed what labor will be involved in the installation, the quotation will be comprehensive to ensure that there no hidden costs at the end of the installation.

It might be recommended that you look at wireless options; they often can be cheaper than a system that needs caballing. You could choose a stand alone camera system or one that can be used with a PC to record all activity on a DVR or live stream.

All if these options will be discussed so that can choose what is the best option to fit into your security budget.

Where do you live?

If you live in California and especially the Los Angeles areas we are well covered to service these areas. Why not give us a call and we will dispatch an expert installer in Los Angeles who will meet with you on a scheduled appointment.  Our installers are courteous, friendly and are highly knowledgeable in all aspects of security systems, surveillance monitoring, covert monitoring, indoor and outdoor systems, on site monitoring or off site monitoring. We are sure to have a system that will fit in with your situation, evaluate and install to your complete satisfaction.  Our past customers have expressed extreme satisfaction with the work completed on their premises we promise to do the same for you, we are just a phone call away, and it takes but a minute to schedule an appointment.  Remember our quotes are obligation free so you have nothing to lose.

Cameras Install In Los Angeles

Choosing to install security cameras in your home in Los Angeles, you will need to take a good look around your home to see where the best places to put the cameras.  Depending if you going to install a wired system, or a wireless system the placement of the camera is important to get the best results.

Choosing to do it yourself or get a professional installer

Lighting is one of the aspects you need to take into consideration if it is placed in too dark areas it will not give good results and if the lighting is too bright it might also affect the results.  Most people don’t have a clue what would be the best places to install cameras.

Calling in a professional Security specialist who has years of experience, good knowledge in the security business, and are licensed in installation of security systems, they will visit your home or business premises, their experience and knowledge of the various systems will give them the edge to be able to spot the perfect place for the camera.  If you choose to have a wired setup then it definitely is best to get in a professional installer as they will not only know where the best place to install the camera, they will also be able to install the cables correctly and place them unobtrusively.

Reasons why you might need to get cameras installed in Los Angeles

If you are a business owner, you may wish to monitor your work environment to see how your employees are performing; you might wish to see how an employee will treat customers who come into the company.  There are systems that can monitor internet usage, telephone usage and much more, many business owners operate a camera security setup on a need to know basis on order to increase production, and ensure that the company makes sufficient profit to keep it afloat, and be able to pay bills and salaries.

Homeowners who have children may need to leave their children in the care of a sitter or housekeeper installing hidden cameras gives them the opportunity to check up to see that all is well in the home. With a hidden surveillance camera installed they can also monitor if an emergency situation arises and be able to act upon it immediately.

Monitoring at your fingertip if you are miles away

IP security cameras that can use computer technology mean that you can monitor a home or business while you are away from the premises.  If you need to go on a business trip and would like to keep a close eye on what is happening in your home or business, then a IP (internet protocol) camera can record directly onto your laptop. The infrastructure and interface is ideal for such a situation and you have peace of mind knowing you are able to monitor a how things are at home or in the office.

Overall it’s good to consult with a professional who is an expert on security matters, they can advise you on the best systems and certainly the most up to date systems so you have complete control at all times.

Security Cameras Los Angeles

Homeowners or businesses who are looking for security for their premises will be looking at security cameras Los Angeles, will need to decide what they need, what types of security cameras to choose which will give be best overall security to their premises.

There are many designs and types of security camera systems available it can all get quite confusing.  There are choices such an infrared, dome cameras, bullet, cameras, and many others.

A few questions to ask yourself before choosing a security camera system

• Where will the camera or cameras be sited?  Indoors or outdoors,  that would be the first thing to note,  cameras for indoors and outdoors differ due to the type of environment they will be installed.
• When will the cameras be active, daytime, nighttime or on 24 hour duty?
• What type of establishment will the cameras be used, a home security camera setup can be quite different that needed for a business.

Reasons why you want a security camera

• If you are a homeowner you will most likely want it as a deterrent to prevent intruders entering  your home, and should they breech your home, the camera should be able to record what happens and possibly record the intruder, so that should a criminal charge be brought against the intruder it can be used as evidence.
• One other function you could use a security camera, small hidden cameras can be installed to monitor your baby sitter, for instance, or some other reason you may wish to monitor a family member or animal.
• Businesses use security cameras to protect their property from intruders, and should the intruders penetrate their security measures they will be recorded on footage to be use as evidence of the crime.
• Companies also like to monitor employees in different guises.

Once you have determined the purpose for which you want security cameras you will then need to contact companies that specialize in security cameras Los Angeles.  You need to look for a company that specializes in configuration, design, and installation of home or business security systems.

Fine a company that has a good range of security systems on display, and representatives who are prepared to show you how they work, and advise you on the types of security cameras and systems you will need for your particular set up.

You will be able to discuss you needs for indoor or outdoor surveillance, you will need to discuss the type of lighting the camera will have to work in, for instance nighttime or daytime, indoor or outdoor both have different needs and different cameras will need to be chosen to work most efficiently in the environment it is expected to work.

It is also a good idea to get the representative/consultant to visit your home or business so they can evaluate the situation and accurately assess the correct security camera systems for you to choose.

Apart from the standard CCTV type of systems, there are also PC based systems that have some powerful analytics that can be configured to work more effectively in the environment it will be installed.

IP security camera systems

IP security camera systems are smart option to security issues in homes, businesses, retail stores, warehouses and many other places.  IP which means internet protocol, has advantages and disadvantages, but more and more people are choosing IP Security camera systems for its excellent video resolution and the ease of installation.  CCTV and DVR’s types of security camera systems are becoming obsolete because of IP technology which lets people such as business owners to be able to view the security video’s from any internet or network connection.

With IP Security cameras, home owners and businesses will find peace of mind as these systems are difficult to tamper with, theft is cut down to the minimum, the owner of the property is able to access a recorded video or a live video through an existing network, or anywhere with an internet connection.

IP security camera systems are a popular choice

What makes IP security camera systems more popular is they are more effective than the standard CCTV’s and DVR systems.  With the IP systems a business/homeowner is able to obtain very clear still images which are easily pulled from an IP video; this makes it easier to identify intruders and thieves.   Companies who already have CCTV or DVR security systems in place, can very easily integrate IP technology into their existing systems, which means that existing systems need not be pensioned off as they can easily be upgraded.

Another advantage of IP technology is it does not require coaxial cabling which is quite expensive, the Internet Protocol cables are less obtrusive and considerably cheaper than the old systems.

The Internet Protocol is not 100% perfect and it does have some disadvantages.

IP cameras do not always give the same performance as traditional cameras, this is especially in relation to low light situations, there are sometimes problems with the frame rate, they make the images look ‘jumpy’.  There is no standard when it comes to video encoding, because not every type of camera is compatible with the different encoders.  Some manufacturers are already working on these issues and in time it will not be a problem.  When looking to purchase and IP Security camera systems do discuss these issues with the consultants or representatives, also for a demo or to see some sample videos from the various models to help in your choice.

The encoder is one of the most important parts when choosing an IP security camera.  It’s often a good idea to buy an encoder from the same manufacturer as the camera itself.    Encoders come in two categories, a one- port and a four-port.  The one-port or also known as one channel means that the encoder will only digitize one camera’s analog.  The four-port has four channels to be able to encode four cameras and analog.

As well as port requirements, other things you need to consider are maximum video resolution, embedded analytics that includes motion detecting, compression rates, audio detecting, video loss, and active tampering.

Indoor or outdoor

Another aspect when choosing an IP Security camera system, do you need it for indoor or outdoor?  Outdoor has extra components that protect the camera from outside elements, such as wind, rain, snow etc.  There are some camera’s that are designed to be used for both indoor and outdoor.

Choosing IP security camera systems it’s a good idea to get as much information as you can before spending your hard earned money.

Security Camera Systems DVR

Security Camera System DVR, or Digital Video Recording, has some amazing new high quality technology today.  A lot of the technology that is used in security camera DVR’s has been adapted from the personal computer industry.

How does a DVR work?

The modern digital video recording surveillance and security systems are basically plug and play items that are used in computers.  The different components are not made by only one manufacture, but can be made by different manufacturer and can work with each other.  As a result this provided great versatility in the application systems as Digital Video Recording (DVR) security cameras no longer need to use the same components to be operational.   A good example is an 8 channel system could have 6 bullet cameras made by one manufacturer and the 2 Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras made by a completely different manufacture and will work together.

DVR security cameras are many and varied but the basic way they work is to transfer reflecting light in the ‘field of vision’ which is then channeled into the electrical impulses, these are capable of being manipulated,  as well as being measured, and then compiled to create a digital video file.   This information will then be sent to the Digital Video Recorder monitor for viewing and processing.

The camera works using one of two electronic types of sensor chips, these electronic chips are known as complementary  metal  oxide  semiconductor (CMOS) or a charge  coupled  device (CCD), these two work in different ways but create the same end product, creating electrical data that can be used to create a DVR file.

The Camera accomplishes this using its lens and focusing on the ‘field of view’ onto one of the chosen chips, these can range from ¼” to ½” square.   When the light strikes a sensor chip, a small electrical impulse is created by the pixels in the chip.   Each is capable of being measured and is used to create the data that is used to display the ‘field of view’ as a digital video.

The signal is in analog, the camera will then send the analog data through processor chip, called an analog-to-digital, which then converts the data into binary or digital format.  The camera can make fine adjustments to the data by the use of a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) chip.  Once this digital information is ready it is then sent through a video transmission cable, or other methods, to the DVR.

When the has signal reached the DVR, it will apply its built in DSP technology together with a COmpression.DECcompression (CODEC) utility.    CODEC uses a special algorithm program that will reduce this very large file into a fraction of the original size and will not sacrifice on the quality. Once this is completed the file is then saved on the DVR’s hard disk or can be displayed on a monitor.

Purchasing a DVR security camera

Price can dictate the decision to purchase a DVR security camera, the  prices can be between $600 up to $5,000,  this vast difference in price is dictated by various factors,  such as the number of supported camera in the system, the compression technology, how many frames per second, how much hard drive space, remove viewing or network connection capability, scheduling, motion detection, and its ability to be able to save the data into an audio, video, flash drive or CD.  A color CCD security camera can contain storage of up to a terabyte.

Wireless Security Cameras

Security cameras are a good way to integrate a security system in your home or office however, some systems can be difficult to install.  A wired systems needs to be connected to a power source using wires or cables to send power to operate the system.  There is a easier way to have a good security system in place with wireless security cameras.  There are wireless security cameras that operate without wires but need to be connected to a power source for recharging; another option is to have a wireless security camera that works on batteries that can be recharged.

Video recording or live stream on internet

Wireless security camera systems can supply you with a video recording or certain cameras can give you a live stream with a connection directly to the internet. Using an internet connection you can access from anywhere in the world.

Which wireless security system do you need?

Outdoor wireless security cameras can replace the hard-wired security camera systems no need to install a lot or wires or cables.  It works independent of wired power.  They are ideal in almost any outdoor situation. If you are renting a property you won’t need to get your landlords permission to install them either.

Wireless IP Security Camera is one of the newer surveillance cameras, this type of system is an IP surveillance camera. They work in a similar way a normal security camera works; however they are connected to a computer.  The camera signal is then sent to a connection on your internet access at home or anywhere in the world. Technically the camera is a separate webcam which gives you the opportunity to see what the camera see on your computer.   This real-time monitoring can easily be recorded on computer or using a digital video recorder.

The NannyCam wireless surveillance system is a budget item with a camera hidden in objects, these can be used to remote view a person in your home such as the babies nanny, where the camera is easily hidden the baby monitor or some other object.   The wireless option can digital video surveillance on DVR, or record both DVR and IP Camera, which means you can have a recording as well as monitor on live video remotely on the internet in another location.

In general wireless security cameras have come a long way from the days of bulky, conspicuous cameras.  These days you have the choice of motion detectors, high resolution digital images, telecentric lenses, and many other gadgets and or accessories.

Advantages of wireless

Security cameras that are fixed to one place connected to wires and cables are at risk of having the wires tampered with or damaged.  Wireless has the advantage of no cables, as well as being able be moved from one place to another, they require very little maintenance, and are very easy to install.  Being more flexible they can easily be moved from one location to another when the surveillance requirements change.  Overall a wireless is one of the best means of having your home monitored.

Hidden Security Camera Systems

Hidden security camera systems are used for surveillance monitoring and covert operations.  Many of the modern systems are hidden color cameras.  There are times when covert digital video recording is required and today with 21st century technology, this sort of equipment is available and also priced reasonably.

Hidden security camera systems are designed to be disguised or hidden in objects that you don’t realize have a camera installed.  They can be used to monitor employees in a company, your babysitter, for covert surveillance.  With advances in security camera technology, many hidden cameras are miniaturized and are created to be disguised as a number of different objects.

Wired or wireless

When choosing a hidden security camera system, you have a choice of wired or wireless systems.  Both have advantages and disadvantages.  Wired can be used over a larger distance, but require to be connected to a power supply with cables, wireless on the other hand are easier to install, don’t need wires or cables, can be installed anywhere without a lot of fuss.   When you choose a wireless camera look for the 2.4GHz frequency, this has reduced interference and very good image transmission.  Choosing wireless security camera systems that uses rechargeable batteries makes installing the system so much easier.

Color or black and white

You also have a choice of black and white or color systems for your hidden camera system.   Using color camera you are afforded more information, for instance color will give details like color of people’s clothing or color of vehicle.  Black and white offer overall a better resolution and operates better in low light. Understanding the resolution you will find that it is specified in the number of horizontal lines the camera will use to paint the image.   Most typical resolutions are for color camera 280 lines, and black and white 400 lines.

With low light sensitivity the values used are called LUX, color camera use 1 LUX value whereas black and white usually goes down to 0.5 LUX.  For one of the best results choose a black and white model with X-vision, this technology allows very clear and sharp images that go down to .003 LUX.  By way of comparison a 1 LUX will give you vision of around evening or a well lit car park by comparison .05 LUX offers a greater clarity and ability to ‘see’ better than one would with an unaided naked human eye.

Where do you want to hide your hidden security camera

Choosing the intended location for the hidden security camera, this determines the types of objects that can be used to hide the camera.  For example, you can hide a camera in a teddy bear in your childs nursery, or in a can opener in your kitchen, a room fan, the wall thermostat, in a cordless phone there are so many places that a hidden security camera system can be placed.

There are various factors to consider choosing a hidden security camera system, our company Los Angeles CCTV Camera Specialists can help you in your choice of security systems that you wish to install. Our technicians are able to offer unmatched customer service, top class solutions and technical support, and we also offer very competitive pricing all good reasons to use our services for your home or business security.

Outdoor security camera systems are especially designed to withstand all weathers, if you opt for a wireless outdoor security camera system they are quick to install, no wires to attach, and are sufficiently versatile to be used in any situation or environment.

Technological advances have developed to a degree that they have created optional features to be used with the camera which make them more useful.  Outdoor Security Camera systems with extra features come at a reasonable price which is good news for homeowners as well as tenants in rental properties.

How many cameras do you need

If you choose a wireless outdoor security camera system you can have more than one camera in place and each has its own built-in antenna and transmitter that sends a video signal to a digital video receiver.   Today’s modern wireless outdoor security camera systems use 2.4 or the 5.8 GHz radio band technology to send their signals, this is the same radio band signal that is used for landline wireless telephones.

The technology for the outdoor security camera is the same a technology used for indoor security cameras.  To protect the outdoor security cameras they are placed inside an enclosure or cover to protect the camera from environmental elements and inclement weather conditions.   The security cameras are rated based on the International Electrical Code standards; these are known as Ingress Protection Rating or Code.  The designation of the code is recognized by the use of IP and followed by two digits.  The digits represent a degree of protection that the camera is recognized by its enclosure. Most outdoor security cameras are rated at IP66 or IP 67, it’s a good idea to look for these numbers when shopping for outdoor security cameras.

To understand the rating an IP66 rating means that the camera is secure from dust, dust is unable to reach the working parts of the camera.  It is also capable of withstanding powerful jets of water from any direction.   The IP67 carries the same dust rating as the IP66, but the IP67 is capable of being submerged in a meter of water and not cause any damage.  There are also a number of specialized outdoor security cameras that are especially designed to be protected from being damaged by humans and other factors.  If you really want serious protection for your outdoor cameras, there are ones that are designed to withstand an explosion.

Cameras for all weathers and conditions

Outdoor security camera systems are especially designed for those extreme temperature conditions.  Some camera have video that is long range during nighttime, others have clean daytime color video, discuss with your supplier what you need and what is best for your situation.  Wireless technology is ideal as its quick to install, does not need video transmission cables, you just need to mount the cameras into the power supply and you sit back as its ready for use immediately.

Optional Features for Outdoor Security Cameras

There are several optional features that you can use with your outdoor security cameras, this is a partial list of the more common features.

• Day/night vision cameras that are capable of capturing video in low light conditions
• Infrared night vision cameras that are capable of capturing video in normal lighting and in total darkness as well.
• Outdoor security cameras that can record video and audio
• A pan-Tilt-Zoom function, this increases the usefulness of the camera and can give a fuller view when recording,   these cameras when they are equipped with correct programming software are capable of using motion detection to be able to track and follow objects and individuals.
• Some outdoor security camera systems are designed to use rechargeable batteries; this eliminates the need for AC power adaptor supply.  There is no need to have a power supply line to the camera.
• Internet Protocol (IP) technology cameras that is able to network on the internet.

Wireless Security Camera Systems

Wireless security camera systems are CCTV cameras that transmit an audio and video signal to a wireless receiver through a radio band.  Although the systems are wireless, many of the wireless security cameras still require one wire or cable for power; the wireless part refers to the transmission of audio/video.  Not all wireless cameras systems need wire/cable some are operational with batteries therefore making the security cameras truly wireless all over.

The wireless security camera systems are proving to be very popular especially among customers with a modern outlook to security; their popularity is due to low installation costs, eliminating the need to run expensive video extension cables, and more flexible mounting options.  One of the benefits of wireless technology is that the wireless security camera systems can be mounted and installed in locations that were previously inaccessible to standard wired cameras.

Types of Wireless Security Camera Systems

There are two types of wireless security cameras; one is analog wireless which transmits audio and video signals using radio frequencies with a transmission range of 91 meters (300 feet) in unrestricted open spaces,  however if there are doors, walls, and furniture this can reduce the range.

The pros of Analog Wireless security systems

• Its affordable, low cost of individual cameras
• It has multiple receivers for each camera.  How this works is the signal from one camera can be picked up my other receivers. Thus its more flexible as you can have receivers in different locations to create a complete wireless network.

The Cons of Analog Wireless security systems

• The Analog system is susceptible to have interference from devices in the home such as cordless phones, microwave ovens, routers, and video game controllers
• The signal is insecure – your neighbors will be able to pick up transmission on their devices such as radios etc that are on the same bandwidth
• Audio and video quality is poor to average, and interference from appliances will lessen the quality even further.

The second type of wireless security camera systems are digital wireless, how this works is digital wireless cameras transmit video and audio signals with the use of encoded digital packets that use high bandwidth radio frequencies.

The Pros of Digital Wireless Cameras

• The signal is 100% secure; it cannot be picked up by the neighbors on radio or other devices on the same bandwidth.
• It has a wide transmission range, approximately 450 feet
• Offers a high quality of audio and video
• It has a two way communication between receiver and camera
• Digital give you more flexibility as you can transmit functions and commands such as turning lights off and on.
• You can also connect several receivers to the one recording device, for instance a security DVR.

The Cons of Digital Wireless Cameras

• There is only on disadvantage the system is more expensive than an Analog, but the benefits far out way the costs.

Wireless technology is becoming more popular, they are very cost effective, and are an excellent way to have a comprehensive surveillance camera system installed into your home or business, without expensive installations.  Using wireless in rented homes or apartments is idea as there is no need extension cables through the walls and ceilings, therefore no need to get your landlords approval to install wireless security camera systems.