A Guide when buying Outdoor Surveillance Cameras
An outdoor surveillance camera can be a practical and economical way to protect and secure your home. There are several factors to consider when looking for a model that is best for your needs, with the most important aspect for having your camera outdoors being it has been rated as either weatherproof or waterproof. Beyond that, here’s what you need to think about:
Coverage Desired
How much space outside your home you want covered by the viewing angle of the camera is one of the primary concerns when shopping for an outdoor surveillance camera. Wider angled lenses will help cut down on the number of cameras required for overall coverage of your property. Another way to increase your coverage area is to purchase multiple cameras or multipacks that can provide a more complete monitoring solution for your home.
Resolution
Another factor to consider when outdoor surveillance camera shopping is the camera’s resolution. The higher the camera resolution, the clearer and easier the images will be to see. Ideally, you’ll want 1080p or higher resolution for the clearest images. Keep in mind that if you connect your camera into a DVR or other recording device, it will also need to be HD compatible in order to keep the image at a high quality.
Night Vision
Monitoring at night is one of the most common uses for outdoor surveillance cameras, and in order to get a high quality image, you’ll want to purchase a camera with infrared (IR) technology. Many models have a built-in IR cut-switch that automatically enables and disables the infrared technology depending on the lighting conditions, so you get the clearest image possible no matter what time of day. The number of infrared LEDs used in a camera will help determine how far of a night vision range a camera has.
Style
There are two main styles of outdoor security cameras — dome or bullet. Both camera styles are fairly obvious to potential intruders, however, it is more difficult to determine which direction a dome-style camera is pointing, which may help deter a potential intruder. Another thing to keep in mind regarding camera style is whether you want to mount it on the ceiling or wall and ensuring that whatever camera you choose has enough clearance to mount in the desired location.
Recording Capacity
If you want to watch playback of the goings-on around your home, you’ll need a camera with onboard storage capacity or cloud recording capabilities (unless you’re also purchasing a DVR system.) Most cameras with recording capabilities have an onboard SD or microSD slot that allows for sufficient recording space.
Mobile Compatible
Many outdoor surveillance cameras available today are able to live stream a feed directly to your mobile device. If you want to be able to check in during the day or while away for extended periods, this is a valuable feature to have. You’ll also want to ensure the camera you choose is compatible with your device.
Wired/Wireless
Wireless cameras are easy to install and reposition, but you’ll want to check the battery levels periodically to ensure you’re fully protected. Wired units usually require professional installation and access to a power outlet, but tend to provide clearer images than their wireless counterparts.
Pan/Tilt/Zoom
Cameras with remote controlled pan, tilt and zoom are ideal for providing coverage to larger areas and allow the user to get the best viewing angle possible without having to physically reposition the camera.
Energy Saving
Surveillance cameras can eat up a lot of energy, but if you find a model that only records when motion is detected, it can help to cut down on operating costs. Many models will even send you push or email notifications when something out of the ordinary is detected, so you don’t need to be continually monitoring yourself.
Hikvision DS-2CD3132 2.8mm Lens 3MP Mini Dome Camera 1080P POE IP CCTV Camera
Available in a choice of lenses, this dome-style camera features a compact design that makes it ideal for mounting in a variety of places and provides a full 1080p HD video feed.
Key features:
Vandal-resistant
3MP, 2.8mm lens
Up to 90 ft night vision range
Hikvision DS-2CD2032-I Outdoor HD 3MP IP Bullet Security Camera
Available in a choice of configurations for your home security needs, this bullet-style security camera boasts a 3MP, 4mm lens that provides stunning HD images. It features built-in digital noise reduction and adjustable frame rates.
Key features:
Up to 90 ft night vision range
75.8-degree viewing angle
Built-in motion and tamper alarms
Hikvision 1-MP 20X Zoom Network PTZ Dome Camera
Key Features:
SKU: DS-2DE4120-AE
Hikvision 1-MP 20X Zoom Network PTZ Dome Camera.
True Day/Night,
Privacy Mask,
Alarm input/output,
View our full range of cameras and recorders on our website www.prosafesecurity.com or call 011 362-5590 to schedule appointment for a quotation.