Benefits of A Wireless Spy Camera
Best Selling Wireless Spy Camera
Check out this wireless spy camera by Cisco available on Amazon. It is a standalone unit which means, unlike other network cameras this unit does not need to be connected directly to a computer. It serves as its own web server so you can connect it directly to your network and access the video feed from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
Why You Might Need a Spy Camera
Trust is something that’s hard to give to other people, especially when that person is a complete stranger. However, because people can’t do things on their own, they have to hire help and for businesses to thrive, they have to have a lot of employees. Now, most people will do their jobs because they are getting paid, but it does happen that one or two will stray. They either steal from their employers, deface property, or snoop around your private things. At times like these, you may need to have a wireless spy camera installed.
Choosing a Wireless Spy Camera
With so many spy cameras on the market, why should you go for a wireless one? Well, it’s because it’s more convenient, and easier to hide. Since a lot of wiring is not involved, a wireless spy camera can be hidden inside virtually anything, from a hollow soup can to inside a teddy bear. Most of these cameras come in small sizes so you can place them in spots which have a vantage point while staying hidden from the person you are spying on.
In Place of Security Personnel
Wireless spy cameras make good additional eyes to help with guarding your property or your company’s premises. A security guard can only be in one place at one time, and even if he is monitoring feeds from different cameras, it is still just one set of eyes. Additionally, most companies get robbed and vandalized even when there are security personnel because the guards themselves can be accomplices. If you feel like this is your situation, then having a wireless camera may help you catch them.
Advantages of Hiding Cameras
Most thieves discover that they are being watched through spy cameras either because of camera movement, or because they see the wires and follow the wires back to where the camera is hidden. With wireless spy cameras, this would not be a problem for you. Also because you don’t have to deal with a lot of wires, you can hide the cameras anywhere without it being too obvious. Because the system is wireless, you can watch the footage from anywhere.
Legality of Spy Cameras
Although the use of spy cameras is frowned upon by a lot of people, and in some states evidence coming from a spy camera recording cannot be admitted into court, it is a great way for you to keep tabs on your people and see if they are still loyal to you, or if they’re saying bad things about you behind your back. Confronting someone based on suspicion alone is counterproductive, so you can use a camera instead to gather evidence that someone is after you, stealing from you, or spreading rumors about you. You can then choose an opportune moment to walk in on them so you can catch them in the act yourself.
When A Wireless Night Vision Camera Is A Good Idea
A wireless night vision camera is easily available to any home owner looking to beef up their home security. Since surveillance technology has advanced to the point where such equipment is affordable and reliable there is no reason why anyone should have to go without at least some kind of security camera for protection. It makes sense to purchase a camera with night vision capability since crime does not stop at night. In fact, we all know that criminals feel more secure about committing offenses under the cover of darkness which is why it is a good idea to have a camera that can capture video in both day and night lighting conditions.
Why Wireless
There are many reasons why a wireless security camera is a good idea. For starters, commercially available products are easy to install. Most models are as close to plug and play as it gets. Simply set up the camera and receiver to communicate with each other and then plug the receiver to a TV, VCR or other recording device. Then it is a matter of mounting the camera in a position that provides optimal view of the area to be monitored. Of course this is all easier said than done. There are some details that must be considered which we covered or will cover in more detail about selecting the type of wireless camera you need and determining where to install the camera.
But the point is that having a wireless security camera allows versatility in where the camera is installed. Basically anywhere within range of the wireless signal are candidate spots for installation and monitoring. Outdoor security cameras might require more specifications to ensure the camera can withstand weather conditions but other than that the only limit is the range of the wireless signal. This means the camera can be installed indoors or outdoors and does not have to be in the same room as the receiver. Also, there are no wires to run around the house so changing the location of the camera is a much simpler task.
Night Vision
Most night vision cameras should be able to record both during the day or well lit conditions as well as during low light to no light conditions. These cameras have built in sensors to detect the light levels and switch to utilize the appropriate technology for whatever the light levels may be. Night vision cameras use infrared light to record images in the dark. Infrared technology detects light waves at frequencies that are not visible to human eyes. Some cameras come with a motion sensor feature so it starts recording only when movement is detected. This is useful when monitoring places that are normally do not receive any traffic.
Of course there is the option of night vision cameras that only record during the night but there are many affordable day and night security cameras that provide good performance quality so most homeowners should opt for something that can be used 24 hours a day. The only consideration at that point is making the most of the camera by installing it in the right places. For small surveillance systems such as a single camera, the wireless night vision camera should be mounted so it can keep watch over the walkways leading into the property.
Frequencies of Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras
There must be many reasons why wireless outdoor security cameras are so popular and continue to be. Many people are drawn to the ease of use and installation since most wireless cameras are plug-and-play devices. One big drawback against most cameras is running cables and wires all over the place. Wireless security cameras are the solution to this wiring problem. Since the cameras themselves are small and easy to install or mount just about anywhere, it is great for home owners who might choose to move the camera from time to time before they find out what the most effective position is.
There are some problems, however, that still plague wireless cameras as with most wireless devices. That is the wireless signal that allows communication and transmission of video feed between the camera and the receiver. There are numerous ways to work around any signal problems but it takes planning to avoid money wasting trials.
There are three frequencies that commercially available wireless security cameras will use. The lower frequencies mean a stronger signal especially when it comes to passing through objects and obstacles. A wireless outdoor security camera will usually have to contend with at least some walls since the receiver is usually installed inside the building with the camera on the outside. The ideal set up is a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver but we know that is almost never the case. The best way is to first understand your options and figure out what your system is going to look like.
The lowest frequency available is 900MHz. This is best for penetrating concrete and metal walls which can really hinder a wireless signal. Not too many wireless devices use 900MHz frequency so there is little interference plus a strong signal making this a good frequency for small systems. The reason we mention that it is only good for a small system is that at 900MHz, there are only two channels available so a security system on this frequency is limited in size.
Next in line are 2.4GHz wireless security cameras. The higher frequency is very commonly used among wireless devices such as home phones, network routers, wireless printers, keyboard, mice and just about anything else you can think of. For this reason, it can be difficult to install a 2.4GHz camera without running into an interference problem. Even though there are 12 channels available at this frequency, in a densely populated area it is rare that there are not other devices clogging the channels.
A relatively new introduction is the 5.8GHz wireless camera. It offers up to eight channels so you can have a decent sized system. There is a huge problem with weak signal especially when there are objects obstructing the path between receiver and transmitter. Currently, manufacturers are working to improve the quality of their hardware with better antennas and transmitters using 5.8GHz technology.
Understand the wattage of each wireless camera system to get the most range out of your wireless outdoor security cameras. Do not always go for the cheapest camera since the transmitter output might be too weak for the range you require.
Wireless Outdoor Security Camera Features
A wireless outdoor security camera offers many advantages that just any security camera cannot. It is proven that homes protected by an outdoor security camera are much less likely to be broken into. A wireless outdoor security camera is built tougher than just any camera and the wireless technology allows the owner to install the camera anywhere within range of a wireless signal. With that in mind there are a few major points that must be considered when looking to buy a camera. The exact specification you are looking for depends on what you need. But these three points will help make sure that you have surveyed the area to be monitored and defined your needs which are the first step to shopping for the right camera. Here we are going to assume that you have already determined the conditions under which the camera must perform.
Wireless Range
The specification particular to a wireless camera is the range. What is the distance the camera can be positioned from the transmitter before the signal becomes too weak for the two devices to connect. Ideally there is a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver for optimal range. Also, wireless devices use radio frequencies that might interfere with one another so if there is more than one camera in the area be sure the check the frequencies that they operate at to avoid any interference. Map out the mounting locations of every camera not only to get the best picture but also to be sure that the connection between the camera and other security devices are connected.
Resistance
Since these cameras will be installed outdoors they will be required to meet a standard of durability to stand up against weather and other factors posed by the outdoor conditions. An outdoor security camera in Arizona will require different resistance than a camera in Minnesota. Before buying a camera you need to know whether it will be able to stand up to wind, dust, rain, snow or ice and what the conditions are where the camera will be installed. It is also a good idea to check the terms of the warranty closely. Weather is not the only challenge outdoor cameras will face. Some areas are high risk of vandalism and you might need a special camera housing to withstand physical attacks. Whatever the conditions are, just be sure you have the camera to match.
Night Vision
Usually during the night is when most unwanted activity is likely to occur. For that reason most security is geared toward protecting at night. What is important with a security camera is how well the camera can capture useful video footage in low light conditions. Dark images are useless so you need a camera that has some kind of night vision technology that allows for low light use. Or, if the situation warrants, you could just use additional lighting to the area. This depends on where you are installing the camera and how it is being used. Just avoid buying a camera that absolutely needs bright clear days to capture any useful images when you know you will need the camera for night use.
Everyone looking to buy anything will always take the lower priced product into consideration and that is perfectly fine so long as that is not the only criteria by which you are shopping. The camera has to meet your minimum standards and be able to fulfill its job or it is virtually useless if it cannot record in the dark as you intended or it is damaged by a little rain. Buy a high quality wireless outdoor security camera that is right for the conditions and it will protect your home and property for many years to come.
Limitations of an Outdoor Wireless Security Camera
When it comes to installing an outdoor security camera, planning the layout and route of the wires can be a daunting task of its own. Outdoor wireless security cameras offer the benefit of being free from cables that tether the camera to the rest of the network and recording or monitoring components. Outdoor wireless security cameras relieve a number of problems and possible weak points posed by exposed cables while the camera itself is built strong enough to withstand harsh conditions. But that doesn’t mean that wireless security cameras do not have limitations. Range and network security are important attributes associated with wireless cameras that must be addressed.
Wireless Range
The first limitation is the range of the wireless signal. The distance between a camera receiver can be installed from the signal transmitter depends on many factors. The signal strength is determined by the power of the transmitter but a good receiver is also important. A typical receiver will need to be within the range of the transmitter’s signal but a booster on the receiving end could allow the camera to connect with a transmitter even when the signal is low. The reverse could also remedy the problem where a booster is used to improve the signal put out by the transmitter.
The wireless signals use a particular radio frequency which can be blocked by objections. To achieve optimal range there needs to be a clear path between transmitter and receiver but this is rarely the case and we would be so lucky if there is ever such a situation. Normally, objects will hinder the signal strength and limit range depending on the material of the object. Thick walls and metal objects are the most detrimental to a wireless signal.
Sometimes even weather can affect the range of the signal. This is something that requires a little more consideration because it might go unnoticed until a storm hits and high winds affect the radio waves from traveling properly. With due diligence and careful research these anomalies can be prevented.
Outdoor Power Source
Most wireless security cameras are not completely free from wires. The wireless part only applies to the transmitting of video data and there is still a need to be connected to a power source. Remember that this is an outdoor camera where unprotected components such as any power source connection could be damaged which would render the camera useless. It is also much harder to find a power outlet outdoors because building codes do not require a standard of accessible power sources.
One way around this if there are no outlets nearby is using an outdoor wireless security camera with a battery pack. This means that the battery levels must be monitored and the battery must be replaced or recharged regularly. The frequency of battery maintenance depends on battery capacity and the security camera’s power consumption. Another solution is using solar powered cameras or solar powered battery packs. In either case there is a battery that is recharged with solar power so that the battery pack does not have to be tended to.
If there are cables running from the battery pack to the camera or a power outlet or any other power source, it is important to remember that unprotected cables leave your security camera vulnerable. Protect them with cable casings or by running them inside a wall or ceiling.
Network Security
With any wireless network, the issue of access security is always prominent consideration. In an unsecured network any wireless device could connect to the network and access data being transmitted between your security camera and the rest of the security system. To prevent this there are different encryption and authorization systems. Using some security standard is important to protecting your entire network from unauthorized access.
Outdoor wireless security cameras really make the best use of wireless technology since it allows the owner to install a camera and monitor activity anywhere within a radius of the wireless signal.