Buyers Guide - Security Systems
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.
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 have a cylindrical shape and are sleek. They’re mounted to the wall or ceiling and usually have a fixed position. However, some models may have a pan function.
Such cameras are dome-shaped and are mounted to the ceiling. They’re noted for their neat and unobtrusive design.
These devices are hardy and able to withstand the elements. They feature tougher housing so you don’t have to worry about damage. They’re also waterproof.
Infrared cameras pick up heat signatures to be able to detect objects and movement in the dark. They’re also called night vision cameras.
Hidden or covert cameras are designed to be unobtrusive. They may be very small or built to be positioned in locations so as not to be easily identifiable.
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:
Devices based on motion detection use ultrasonic sound waves, infrared or other light sources to detect movement. When the beam of sound or light is disturbed by motion, a sensor is tripped and the alarm sounds.
These sensors are typically equipped with a switch and a magnet to create a closed circuit. 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.
These are small, portable locks that require a key to open. They’re the commonest types of locks and also the cheapest.
Deadlocks aren’t portable and are attached to door jambs. They can be opened with a key. You can find two types–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 require the correct passcode to be entered rather than a key to be opened and must have a power source to operate. They may also require a card to be swiped. The passcode can be changed for better security. 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 systems rely on satellites to communicate the position of an object, in this case a car. If the vehicle is stolen, you can track its whereabouts on your computer or smartphone provided the device isn’t removed from the car.
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.
There’s no hard and fast rule that says you should install a particular security system. It’s entirely up to you and your budget. If money’s no object, you can have several systems in place for added security. If money does matter, you’ll naturally want to go for something that’s affordable yet effective.