Having wireless security cameras installed is a great way to have access to 24/7 video monitoring of your home. With recent advancements in security technology, you are now able to purchase wireless security cameras that aren’t required to be directly connected to a video transmitter. However, before installing wireless security cameras in your home, it is best if you have a general knowledge of how these devices are able to function.
Basic Components
A wireless security camera system usually includes one or more wireless cameras, which each have a built-in transmitter. This is the part of the camera that sends a signal to the receiver, which does not need to be directly connected to the camera. This signal allows the transmitting of video captured on the camera to the receiver, which can be connected to a TV, VCR, Electronic Recording Device or a home PC.
How Wireless Security Cameras Work
The signal that is transmitted by the camera is slightly similar to a radio signal. The video footage is transmitted to the receiving device at a specific frequency, which is able to be captured and recorded (as long as the receiver is tuned to the same frequency). If you’re ambitious, you can actually convert a wired camera into a wireless camera by attaching a transmitter and programming a receiving device.
However, in order to perform these functions, both the transmitter and the receiver in a wireless security camera system do require a constant power supply. Depending on the type of camera, the system may either be powered by a battery pack, or by a direct AC adapter which is plugged in to an electrical outlet. Depending on your needs, you may opt to purchase a wireless security cameras that operate on battery power. This means that even if the electricity in your home fails, the camera will continue to transmit images to the receiver. As long as your recording device is also able to run on backup power, you will still be able to capture video surveillance.
Choosing a Wireless Camera System
Just like with all other security equipment, there are key differences in wireless security cameras which dictate how effective they are in increasing your level of security. Some wireless camera systems include extra features, including:
- Night Vision
- Motion-Activated Recording
- Infrared Vision
- Programmable Duress Signal **
Another consideration that you need to make with a wireless security camera system is the issue of range. It’s important that you are able to place the camera in an area where the transmitter will be able to send a signal that is strong enough to be clearly picked up by the receiver.
Many home protection companies now offer add-on packages to home security systems that include video surveillance. Most of these systems are all-inclusive, and may even come with free or discounted installation. If you are planning on adding video surveillance to your home, it may be beneficial to first contact your home protection company. There may be options available through your company that are more beneficial than setting up video surveillance on your own.
** A “Duress Signal” is a programmed code that can be used if an intruder in your home forces you to disarm the system. It will alert your security monitoring company that you are experiencing a security breach in your home.
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