Security cameras can be a powerful force against burglars. Just the sight of security cameras might scare off an intruder, because criminals don’t want to be seen or leave behind evidence. If your home is burglarized, security cameras can help police identify and find the burglar.
There are two main situations where you’ll need a security camera: when you’re at home and when you’re away. In both cases, there are a variety of ways that security cameras can make life a little easier and safer.
There is a wide variety of security cameras, and each one serves a different purpose. From fixed cameras to pan and tilt cameras, night vision cameras to motion detection cameras, there are security cameras for nearly every scenario.
When researching security cameras, keep in mind that many will have compound features, for example: “outdoor, night vision, pan and tilt cameras” or “fixed, dome cameras.”
Basic or Fixed Security Camera
A fixed camera is a general-purpose camera that does not move, change direction, or zoom.
Pan and Tilt or Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera
Pan and tilt cameras can be adjusted quickly, change direction, or zoom, and can even lock in on and follow a moving object that should not be in an area, depending on the mode. Pan and tilt cameras have the ability to spin and angle up and down due to a motorized interior mount.
Night Vision Camera
This camera makes use of infrared technology to illuminate poorly lit areas and record footage at night.
Exterior or Outdoor Camera
Exterior cameras likely have night vision elements and are weather-proof. These cameras are important for observing who is at the door without opening it, seeing what is going on outside the home, or viewing your front or back yard.
Dome Camera
These cameras are dome-shaped and often used indoors. Some dome cameras have infrared lighting and can be designed to be tamper-proof. Dome cameras are commonly pan-tilt-zoom capable and, because of the tinted dome that shields the camera, most people are unable to tell if the camera is currently facing them or not.
