The footage from these cameras is also wirelessly stored, usually in some kind of cloud. This means you don’t have to worry about setting up a DVR storage device. The major downside of wireless cameras is that they require consistently strong WiFi in order to work properly. Because they’re battery-operated, their batteries also need to be replaced from time to time.
Note that wired cameras tend to be more expensive than wireless cameras, given the extra equipment. However, with DVR storage, you’re also able to avoid any subscription fees that may be required for storing footage wirelessly in a cloud. Because they need to be installed near an outlet or other power source, wired cameras aren’t as versatile as wireless cameras when it comes to where they can be installed.
This service will contact you regarding the security event and will alert law enforcement if necessary. Most camera systems that include notifications will also be accessible via a smartphone app that you can use to monitor the video feed from anywhere.
Note that cameras with night vision may be rendered ineffective by bright lights, so be sure not to install them near a street lamp or other source of light.
For best results, read 2-3 different review sites to see if a particular camera model is consistently rated well. If its ratings are the same across multiple sites, it’s probably a consistently high-quality camera. If you personally know anybody who has bought a security camera, ask them for their recommendation as well.
That being said, don’t simply buy the most expensive camera you can find. Base your judgment on what features the camera has and on how others have reviewed it.
Roughly 34% of burglars attempt to enter homes through the front door, so if you only have 1 camera, your best bet is to place it at the main entrance of your house.
If you keep a lot of valuable equipment or items in your garage, be sure to place a camera inside the garage even if you don’t keep your car in it.
Prioritize any rooms that have large windows that face outside, since these may also be used by potential burglars to break into your home.
If you’re worried about the health of a senior, consider investing in a personal medical alert system instead of a security camera. This will allow the senior to directly contact emergency services if they’re needed.
Wherever you opt to mount the camera, be sure it’s in a location where you can access it to make repairs later on.
For example, if the power cable measures about 6 feet (1. 8 m), then the camera will need to be mounted somewhere within about 5. 5 feet (1. 7 m) of a power outlet. Look around for outlets in locations you may not expect. For example, if you’re trying to install a camera in the garage, there may be an accessible power outlet on the ceiling.
If you’re using screws to attach the mount to the wall, screw them into the stud behind the drywall for best results. If you’re installing a small hidden camera somewhere other than on the wall, feel free to skip this step.
For example, run the cable behind a tall bookshelf or long poster if your camera is install indoors. If it’s outdoors, consider drilling a hole into the wall and running your power cable through this hole to a power source.
