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Buyers Guide - Security Systems

Security Systems Buyer Guide | ShopClues.com

Security Systems Buyer Guide

Security is a real issue whether it's keeping a house safe, having an eye on a commercial establishment, or making sure your car is safe. There are different types of security systems, each designed for specific purposes that you can get.

This guide will show you the following:

  • The advantages of having a security system installed at home, office or a commercial establishment
  • The types of security systems available and which may be suitable for you
  • Choosing a security system based on your requirements

Security System

Types of Security Systems




CCTV:

CCTVs or closed circuit televisions are one of the most popular security systems. They consist of wired or wireless cameras that transmit video feeds to monitors at a designated location. The cameras themselves can be of several types such as:


Bullet Cameras

Bullet Cameras


  • Bullet cameras are popular choices for home, office and commercial settings.
  • They're mounted to the wall or ceiling and usually have a fixed position.
  • Models with a pan function offer greater visibility and can cover a larger area.
Dome Cameras

Dome Cameras


  • Such cameras are dome-shaped and are usually mounted to the ceiling.
  • They're noted for their neat and unobtrusive design.
  • You can install mini dome cameras in hidden locations like cavities and bookcases if you want to keep them out of sight.
Outdoor Cameras

Outdoor Cameras


  • These devices are hardy and are designed to withstand the elements. They feature tougher housing so you don't have to worry about damage.
  • They're waterproof.
  • Outdoor cameras are usually of the bullet variety though you can get dome cameras too.
Infrared Cameras

Infrared Cameras

For nighttime security, choose a camera with infrared capability to detect objects and movement in the dark. Other cameras won't be able to pick up the same.


Hidden Cameras

Hidden Cameras


  • Hidden cameras, with their tiny sizes, are ideal for covert use.
  • Even more unobtrusive than mini dome cameras, they usually come in casings that hide them very effectively. You can get power socket style cameras, cameras built into alarm clocks and cameras that can be attached to mirrors.
  • The payoff with such small cameras can be limited visual range. If you plan to use them for serious surveillance, you'll need to get a few and install them in strategic locations.

Burglar alarms:

Burglar alarms are security systems that rely on triggers to set off an alarm They usually come with an entire unit that consists of sensors, control keypads, sirens and remote controls. These are some of the common triggers of burglar alarms:


Motion Detector

Motion Detector


  • Devices based on motion detection use ultrasonic sound waves, infrared or other light sources to detect movement. This makes them suitable for dark spots and nighttime.
  • Motion detectors that feature two types of sensors such as a microwave sensor and a passive infrared sensor minimise false alarms.
Door and Window Sensor

Door and Window Sensor


  • In addition to your pick of security system, get door and window sensors for added benefit.
  • If the door or window to which they're attached is breached, the circuit is broken and an alarm is tripped.

Door Locks

:

Door locks come in a variety of types from ordinary padlocks to deadlocks and keypad locks. They're usually the first line of defence against unlawful entry.


Padlocks

Padlocks


  • No matter what type of security system you choose, padlocks should always be used on doors.
  • You can get a straight shackle padlock, a closed shackle model or a long shackle variety to suit your preference.
Deadlocks

Deadlocks


  • You can find two types of deadlocks-one that accepts a key only on one side of the lock with the other operated using a twist knob.
  • The other type of deadlock has a double cylinder and accepts keys on both sides. It has no twist knob.
Keypad Locks

Keypad Locks


  • A sophisticated take on traditional door locks, keypad locks have become the norm for many offices and commercial establishments where access is restricted to certain areas.
  • A big benefit of such locks is that the passcode can be changed whenever needed.
  • Some keypad locks may also have an added security feature where the door remains closed for a specific period if the wrong passcode is entered several times in a row.
  • The locks can be individual units or hooked up to larger security systems.

Car Alarms

:

Do you own a car or are planning to get one? You need a car alarm. Auto theft is common and it's wise to protect your asset.


GPS Tracker

GPS Tracker

If you own a car, you need a car alarm. A GPS system is one such option. If your vehicle is stolen, you can track its whereabouts on your computer or smartphone provided the tracker isn't removed from the car.

Remote Starter

Remote Starter


  • Remote start is not an alarm by itself but it is hooked up to one.
  • Using a remote starter, you can start your car to heat it before driving it. Depending on the type, it can even alert you if your car's security system is being tampered with.

Key characteristics to consider



Sensor

Sensor


  • You can either pick a camera that's equipped with a CCD sensor-more power-hungry but delivers clearer images-or a CMOS sensor-cheaper but compromises on image quality.
  • A large sensor size of 1/3 inches gathers more light and outputs better quality images. However, you can choose between different sizes of 1 inch, 2/3 inches, 1/2 inch, 1/3 inches and 1/4 inches.
Resolution

Resolution


  • A higher resolution camera will produce images that are more detailed. However, if it isn't complemented by a quality sensor, the output won't be impressive.
  • Depending on your budget, you can look for a model with D1 resolution (720x480 pixels), 720p HD (1280 x 720 pixels), 960p (1280 x 960 pixels) and 1.3MP (1280 x 1024 pixels). A bigger budget can get you higher resolution cameras of 2MP (1600 x 1200 pixels) and full HD capability (1920x1080 pixels).
Optical zoom

Optical zoom


  • An optical zoom feature in a camera is a handy function to have.
  • It lets you magnify an image without losing quality.

Range

Range


  • For short range surveillance, cameras should have an effective range of at least 20 metres.
  • If you need a camera for longer range surveillance, shop for devices that can operate from 100 metres and above.

Benefits of Security Systems



  • The advantages of installing a security system are obvious. Burglary is a danger that everyone could do without. Even having a lone camera trained at the entrance to a door can deter would-be thieves from breaking in.
  • Establishments that have a lot to lose such as offices and stores can benefit even more. By being able to monitor people's movements and restrict access to certain areas, there's a much lesser risk of preventing break-ins and trespassing.
  • Having a working security system in place can help you feel a lot safer especially if you live in a less-than-great neighbourhood.

Which Security System to Get



  • If you live in a small house with about two or three rooms, keypad door locks can do the job well. Just install them near doors that lead into the house. If you feel they aren't enough, you can always back things up with window sensors.
  • If you want your house to be protected further, you should invest in a solid home alarm system that supports multiple sensors, has keypad door locks, and notifies you via an SMS or a phone call if the alarm is tripped. Such systems can be operated remotely too, giving you control even when you're away.
  • CCTVs have the advantage of offering 'eyes' everywhere. In an office setting where sensitive information is stored and many people move in and out, it pays to be able to see. Restricted areas can always be secured using keypad door locks. To round everything off, a burglar alarm system can be installed.

Quick Tips



  • Think carefully before investing in a security system, whatever type it is. You don't want to be saddled with something you'll never use properly.
  • Check to see if the system needs to be set up by a professional. Most online systems have DIY installations and come with step-by-step guides. They also have tech support that you can call.
  • Just because you buy a security system, it doesn't mean you shouldn't take precautions. Always lock doors and windows when you go out and inform trusted neighbours if you plan to be away for a few days. Their watchful eyes can even be more reliable than a sophisticated security system!

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