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Monday, October 5, 2009

Determining the Right Security Camera for You

By Chad Buie

Deciding upon a security camera can be complicated, with decisions that must be made about lenses, lighting, and camera type. This guide will cover the first three different camera types: bullet, infrared, and dome cameras.

Bullet Cameras are the most flexible cameras around. They have interchangeable lenses that can be swapped out to meet changing security needs and are lightweight, small, hearty security cameras. Some lenses are also available with infrared technology. Bullet cameras are multi-functional cameras that can be used for almost every purpose needed in a security setup.

Bullet cameras are also very durable, and can still work in extreme conditions, such as heat, cold, rain, and even high wind (some models can even withstand hurricane conditions). They make excellent outside security cameras.

Infrared security cameras are the second type of camera, which only capture in black and white. This is caused because, infrared cameras work by measuring infrared radiation (IR). Infrared technology converts IR, which is a byproduct of heat, readings into video.

Considering an infrared security cameras have two rather large negatives to consider before deciding whether to implement one into your security camera setup. Number one, they do not work in daylight. This is because infrared security cameras measure infrared radiation, which is a byproduct of heat and the sun. Secondly, because they capture heat, like night vision goggles, they capture in black and white rather than color video.

The third type of security camera is a dome security camera. Dome cameras are the least expensive cameras around, but are generally only used inside, as they generally mount from above. Dome cameras also have protective shields which make tampering with them very difficult.

The dome on a dome security camera does have two drawbacks. First, it prevents most dome cameras from being used outside as most dome cameras must be hung from the ceiling. Secondly, dome camera's domes prevent these cameras from installing long distance lenses, so you will not be able to capture video beyond 300 feet.

In summary, dome security cameras make excellent and inexpensive indoor cameras. Infrared cameras allow security personnel to see in complete darkness by interpreting video from heat signatures. And bullet cameras are extremely adaptable security cameras that really shine when used outside.

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