Choose a Networked Security Camera | Home Security
Understanding Network Security Cameras
Network security cameras, also known as IP cameras, are now widely accessible and are becoming more advanced with each new product release.
The sheer number of choices available can be daunting, however. This guide will provide a useful security camera shopping checklist to simplify the selection process.
Networked vs. Traditional Security Cameras
Instead of recommending specific cameras, our goal is to equip you with a method for evaluating whether a camera, or a complete camera system, aligns with your individual requirements.
We will begin by clarifying the distinctions between networked cameras and conventional security cameras before delving into the key specifications and features to consider.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Network Camera
Evaluating your security needs is the first step in selecting the right camera.
Consider the area you need to monitor, the level of detail required, and whether you need features like night vision or motion detection.
Essential Specifications and Features
- Resolution: Higher resolution provides clearer images.
- Field of View: A wider field of view captures more of the surrounding area.
- Night Vision: Essential for monitoring in low-light conditions.
- Motion Detection: Alerts you to activity within the camera's range.
- Storage Options: Consider cloud storage or local storage (SD card).
Popular Brands to Explore
With the information presented in this article, determining if network camera solutions from manufacturers such as D-Link, Google, and others are suitable for your home will be straightforward.
A thorough understanding of your needs and the available features will empower you to make an informed decision.
Choosing the right camera involves balancing features, budget, and your specific security concerns.
Distinguishing Networked Security Cameras from Traditional Models
A common initial inquiry for those considering a security camera system centers on the fundamental differences between contemporary Network/IP cameras and conventional CCTV ("regular") security cameras.
Let's begin with an examination of CCTV systems, as many individuals possess at least a passing familiarity with them. CCTV, which stands for closed-circuit television, is designed as a self-contained system. Each camera is physically connected to a central control unit via dedicated power and video cabling. While the technology has undergone refinements over time, the core architecture remains largely unchanged. More recent control units have incorporated network capabilities for remote access, but this functionality is often an ancillary addition to traditional CCTV systems.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the strengths of CCTV systems. Despite lacking advanced networking features, they excel in dependability. Although resolution may be lower and image quality potentially grainier, and internet connectivity may be cumbersome or absent, CCTV systems are known for their robustness and longevity. Many banks and retail establishments still utilize CCTV systems installed decades ago. The primary drawback, beyond the older technology, lies in the complexity of installation, which often requires extensive drilling and cabling.
The more recent innovation is the Networked, or IP, camera. The key distinction between CCTV and IP systems is that each camera within a Networked/IP system possesses a unique address on your network, allowing for individual identification and control. This enables direct interaction with each camera through control applications, cloud services, and other connected platforms. Furthermore, networked cameras generally offer significantly higher resolution than traditional CCTV cameras, prioritize network and cloud integration, and are frequently incorporated into smart home ecosystems.
Network cameras can establish a connection to your home network through either a wired Ethernet connection or a wireless Wi-Fi connection. A potential trade-off with IP cameras is a slight reduction in the inherent reliability of traditional CCTV systems, exchanged for the advanced features of modern cameras. Additionally, these enhanced capabilities typically come at a higher cost. We will now explore the specifications and features to evaluate when selecting an IP camera or system.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Security Camera
When investing in security cameras, it’s essential to evaluate both the specifications – the technical capabilities of the hardware – and the features, which represent additional functionalities. This discussion will focus on the crucial hardware specifications to consider.
Image Resolution
Resolution is a primary specification for many buyers, and for good reason. IP cameras consistently deliver superior resolution compared to CCTV cameras, with 720P being the common minimum. These cameras leverage digital camera technology, often incorporating high-quality image sensors.
We advise choosing cameras with at least 720P resolution. Lower resolutions can produce blurry and unusable footage; a clear image is vital for identification purposes. Avoid providing law enforcement with indistinct video of potential criminal activity.
Night Vision Capabilities
Following closely in importance to resolution is the camera’s ability to perform in low-light conditions, often referred to as night vision or IR video. Effective night vision is paramount for maintaining security when visibility is reduced.
When assessing a camera’s night vision, examine the number of IR emitters surrounding the lens and their light output. Also, determine if the camera includes an "IR cut filter," which enhances the clarity of nighttime recordings. Supplemental IR illumination can be added with an affordable LED flood lamp if needed.
Environmental Protection: Weatherproofing
For outdoor installations, weatherproofing is non-negotiable. The camera must be robustly sealed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
While cameras are often marketed as weatherproof, waterproof, or weather resistant, an Ingress Protection (IP) rating provides a more definitive measure of protection. An IP66 rating or higher is ideal; further details on IP ratings can be found in our article explaining water resistance ratings for electronic devices.
Audio Capture
Unlike traditional CCTV cameras, many modern IP cameras incorporate microphones. If capturing both video and audio is desired, selecting a camera with a built-in microphone is essential.
This allows for a comprehensive record of events, providing both visual and auditory information about activity in the monitored area.
Pan, Tilt, and Zoom Functionality
PTZ cameras offer the ability to remotely pan, tilt, and zoom, providing a wider and more flexible view. However, these features are most beneficial in professionally monitored security environments.
For home use, a camera with a wide field of view is often more practical, capturing the entire area of interest in a single frame rather than requiring manual adjustment of the camera’s position.
Network Connectivity Options
IP cameras connect to your network via either an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. Most cameras offer only one connection type, so careful consideration is needed based on your specific requirements.
Wi-Fi offers convenience, particularly when Ethernet cabling is unavailable. However, Wi-Fi performance is subject to the overall quality of your network. Poor Wi-Fi coverage or signal instability will negatively impact the camera’s performance.
If a camera location has limited Wi-Fi signal strength, consider running an Ethernet cable or upgrading your router to improve network coverage. A stable network connection is crucial for reliable security camera operation.
Essential Features to Evaluate in Security Cameras
After establishing the necessary hardware specifications, attention should be directed towards the supplementary features offered by different camera systems. While hardware options—resolutions, network configurations—are relatively limited, the range of features available varies considerably. We strongly advise a thorough assessment of these additional capabilities, as they significantly impact the overall user experience.
Remote Accessibility
A primary reason for installing security cameras is often the ability to monitor a property while away, whether at work or during travel. IP camera systems excel in this regard, offering network addressability and straightforward connection to both home networks and the internet. A robust remote access feature, allowing easy camera viewing via a web browser from a distant computer, is crucial. If this functionality proves unreliable or difficult to use, the core benefit of the security system is compromised.
Smartphone Applications
Closely linked to remote access is the availability of dedicated mobile applications. Given the prevalence of smartphone usage, a well-designed mobile app for security system viewing is essential. Avoid cumbersome web pages that may not adapt well to mobile screens; instead, prioritize an app that natively handles and displays video content on mobile devices.
iOS users generally experience a higher quality app experience, assuming the manufacturer provides one. However, Android app quality can be inconsistent, with some companies lacking an Android app altogether or providing infrequent updates.
If a mobile app is a key requirement, selecting a well-established company is prudent. Smaller, lesser-known brands may lack app development resources, resulting in absent or poorly maintained applications, while larger companies like D-Link or Samsung typically prioritize app development and updates.
Video Storage Options
Beyond live viewing, the method of video storage is equally important. Consider where the video data is saved: directly to the camera, to a computer on the local network via companion software, to a dedicated Digital Video Recorder (DVR), or through a cloud storage service?
Recorded footage is only valuable if accessible when needed. A combination of local storage for immediate review and cloud backup is ideal, ensuring evidence remains available even if the camera and recording equipment are stolen.
Motion Detection and Notifications
To conserve storage space, it’s beneficial for your camera system to record only when activity is detected. Furthermore, the ability to customize motion detection zones is highly valuable. For example, if a camera’s view includes a neighbor’s driveway, excluding that area from motion detection can reduce false alarms and unnecessary recording.
A notification system is also highly desirable. This allows you to receive alerts—via email, text message, or mobile app—when motion is detected, often accompanied by a snapshot. Such immediate, remote updates are invaluable for monitoring package deliveries or potential security breaches.
Selecting the appropriate network camera requires careful consideration, but with these guidelines, identifying a system that meets your specific needs should be achievable.
Image Credits: Mike Mozart, Nest, Ixlaf, D-Link.