Video cameras are becoming a more popular choice for homeowners looking for home security systems. The sight of a video camera is a greater deterrent to burglars than the loud noise of an alarm system according to Reed Newberry with Homewatch Security Cameras of Houston.

“Cameras are the future. It’s the way people are going to secure their homes,” said Newberry on the Homework Houston radio show.

Newberry said burglars know that most people don’t set their alarms during the day or when they are at home. “We’re seeing them get bolder and bolder where they are actually kicking in doors in the middle of the day,” said Newberry. If a neighbor doesn’t see a crime or have the ability to recall details, a video camera catches everything.

Insurance companies are recognizing the trend towards video cameras and offering the same discounts as those provided for alarm systems.

Homewatch Security Cameras will typically install cameras around the perimeter of the house. The front door, back door and side gates are effective camera locations. They include as many windows in the field of view as possible. Wide angle lenses offer the largest field of view. Zoom lenses can catch detail such as license plate numbers.

Reed Newberry recommends infrared cameras for most Homewatch Security Camera installations. They have a bright ring of light around the lens making them clearly visible from the street. “It’s a huge deterrent,” said Newberry. Newberry prefers cameras that include the CCD chip over CMOS due to the fact that CMOS images tend to deteriorate over time. He also recommends BNC or British Network Connectors, the industry standard for camera connections. Avoid modular phone jacks or s-video style connectors that greatly limit your options if you have to replace a camera.

The most functional systems are PC based. They allow the greatest flexibility, easiest maintenance and the ability to expand as a homeowner’s needs expand. Video compression allows for a clear video image, even when streaming over the internet. That clarity is vital to viewing live images over the internet with a laptop computer or smart phone.

Visit the Homewatch Security Camera showroom for an overview of different camera styles and system options. Reed Newberry can demonstrate the images of different cameras that you may have in mind.

When working with a camera specialist, you’ll answer three basic questions. What do you want to look at? How do you want to see it? And, do you want to see it remotely? The technicians will then be able to recommend options. Typically, the costs in security camera systems are based on the usability, stability and cameras. Camera costs increase with quality and the number of cameras needed.

Homewatch Security Cameras
21544 Tomball Parkway
Houston, TX 77070
281-251-0004
www.homewatchcamera.com