Technology has changed the numerous aspects of our day to day lives, but its most significant impact is still far from reaching its climax. Thanks to technological advancements and the Internet of Things, you can now implement a smart security camera in your home.
This article will discuss the different types of smart security cameras you can use, the configurations they come in, their benefits, and teach you how to identify if they are an excellent fit for your house.
What Are Smart Security Systems?
Smart security cameras and systems use state-of-the-art equipment and innovative software to sense situations and react accordingly. Moreover, these intelligence devices are often connected to public or private access networks and store information in a centralized unit.
Smart systems come in a vast range of shapes and sizes and can be made up of cameras, motion and sound detectors, and other surveillance equipment.
These are often interconnected through a centralized hub and accessible through remote channels.
All intelligence systems have in common that they rely on a wireless connection to send information and communicate with other devices that are in range.
They employ different types of wireless networks standards such as Z-Wave, ZigBee, and Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi
You may already be familiar with the Wi-Fi protocol as it’s the same one that allows your devices to connect to the internet via a wireless connection. Wi-Fi offers a reliable format that creates a powerful, long-range signal.
The main issue with Wi-Fi is that it consumes a lot of power when compared to other protocols. This means that the devices that implement Wi-Fi require a power source or frequent battery replacement, although they will be significantly faster than with different formats.
Z-Wave
Z-Wave is one of the most widely used protocols available today because it’s flexible, reliable, and implemented by a huge range of manufacturers. But, always remember that devices that use Z-Wave standards are only compatible with others that use the same format.
That being said, Z-Wave is the only widely accepted format compatible with all other versions of itself, including the most initial editions to the most recent releases. It also uses a low radio frequency, so it won’t use much power or interfere with other networks.
ZigBee
ZigBee is another robust option that has been taken up by renowned manufacturers such as Philips, Samsung, and GE. This protocol provides a solid combination of a low-frequency signal that doesn’t take up much energy but is powerful enough to support a security system.
The only reason why ZigBee hasn’t earned a name as the best protocol for the Internet of Things is that it has suffered compatibility issues when using different software profiles. But, since their most recent versions were released, they seem to have found an effective solution.
Examples And Benefits Of Smart Security Systems
As we mentioned before, smart security systems can be made up of different elements, and as long as they use the same protocol, you can interconnect them and create a mesh network between them.
They can come in the form of independent camera units that you set up independently, create a decentralized security network amongst them, and use an NVR to store and manage video recording.
You may also purchase sets of systems that include individual motion sensors, dedicated cameras, and sometimes even heat detection devices.
They tend to offer the same basic functionality as smart security cameras but may require a different setup.
Intelligent security systems have an array of great benefits that range from increased practicality to enhanced security.
These include, but are not limited to:
- Around the clock live video surveillance
- Work as crime deterrents
- Reduce home insurance cost
- Monitor your visitors
- Easy footage management
- No second-guessing
- Integrate additional technology
Integrating Your Security Cameras And IFTTT
IFTTT is a software application that allows you to automate reactions, as long as the devices or applications you want to automate support this feature.
Many smart security system manufacturers have enabled IFTTT, allowing you to automate reactions when paired with IP cameras.
IFTTT works based on triggers and actions, so you can create extremely simple automation protocols or complex setups that require more time. That being said, IFTTT is a fantastic tool, so make sure your smart system of choice can support this feature.
Establishing If A Smart Security Camera Is Suitable For Your Home
Smart security cameras are fantastic additions to any house, but you have to analyze a few factors that may render them useless. In addition to this, you also need to figure out which features will serve you best according to your needs.
Power Alternatives
Specific alarm systems are equipped with backup batteries, but as a rule of thumb, you should have an alternative power source in place if burglars cut your supply.
If you already have a generator or battery for emergency purposes, you can rest assured your alarm will work even if criminals tamper with your home’s energy lines.
Your Neighborhood
Analyzing your neighbourhood is not about looking at income and social class. Burglars don’t break into homes that are close to where they reside. Instead, they often target quiet suburbs with low traffic or areas where homes are not right next to each other.
Suppose you know of someone in your area that has been burgled, or you have been victimized before. In that case, you should consider installing a smart security system that has motion sensors and can either contact you or the authorities if they detect anything.
Smartphone Usage
Although they are not a necessity, pairing a smartphone with a smart security camera can help you enjoy more benefits as you’ll be able to control your cameras and monitor your system remotely.
Size And Layout Of Your Home
The size and layout of your house will ultimately dictate the features you need and the complexity of your smart security system. The larger it is, the more access points it will have, meaning that you will need a more extensive system in place.
Finally
Smart security cameras can help you build and maintain a safe house for your loved ones. Follow the tips outlined above to identify if you need a smart security system and use the setup that best suits your home.
