Winter conditions cause irreversible damage. Ice destroys roads and irritates cracks and crevices. Snow corrodes metals by melting and aggravating rust. Even wind creates trouble by creating hazards. However, precautionary measures are able to be takes to ensure that no damage comes to your surveillance system. This is important because surveillance systems always take up the slack during the holiday season. Crime will occur more often during these times since offices and homes are left vacant during these times to celebrate. We've already discovered how to weatherproof and select the best materials for winter surveillance systems. However, that is not the only step for quality measures during this time of year.

IP & Analog Security Cameras

IP and analog security cameras serve the same purpose. They provide quality surveillance footage, deter theft and other crimes, and promote a safe environment. However, both systems come with contrasting features for different purposes. For example, a small business owner is looking for a theft deterrent that is simple and easy to use. While this is overly simplified, an analog camera would work best in his situation. However, a credit union or small bank would find a IP camera more beneficial to their system because the footage records in a greater intensity than an analog camera would be capable of.

The letters "IP" stand for "Internet Protocol". These cameras use this process, Internet Protocol, to send data across the web. Since IP cameras use a sensor to monitor and record security footage, it works very similarly to an analog camera. However, IP systems are more difficult to catch on to for the beginner or someone unfamiliar with technology. This because IP cameras come with so many advanced options. It even has an operating system and other basic features of a desktop or laptop. Since these cameras are able to capture images in any resolution, they are the perfect solution for large areas that require surveillance images in high detail.For example, a large parking lot covered in snow would be easier to monitor with one of these. These cameras are usually wireless as well, which means winter conditions like rust, ice, and corrosion will not effect the wires. This will ensure your footage is always crystal clear and easy to interpret.

Analog cameras use a sensor to capture surveillance footage. These sensors are able to capture data in any resolution up to 720 x 575 pixels and in 60 fields, or 30 frames a second. The video is transmitted through the receiver from a coax cable. It is important to properly weatherproof the coax cable so snow and ice do not cause rust within it. While thy are insulated, it is best to install it in an area which will keep it dry and safe. This will protect that quality of your images over time. Analog cameras are more practical for common users since they are designed to be compatible with any regular television. However, analog cameras may require more care during the winter months. In addition to maintenance of the cables, analog cameras need to be tilted and directed in certain directions in order t make viewing easier. Snow, ice, and other weather will affect the video quality drastically if proper measures are not taken. Make sure the camera is in an area where snow will not cover it, or fall and cover the lens. When selecting a camera, make sure it is outfitted for the weather conditions in your area. Taking these measures will make your surveillance system as effective as possible during the holiday season.

Camera Lenses

Camera lenses will make all the difference in your surveillance system. While most cameras have weatherproofing in place so the camera lenses do not fog or lose quality to precipitation, cheaper cameras designed to fit a budget may not. It is important to select a camera with these options or consult a professional before making a choice. Early mornings are the worst times for these conditions since snow and ice will start to met and the humidity in the air will rise. These conditions will only worsen during the weeks between winter and spring.

Optical lenses are used for capturing images in great detail. They essentially work as a microscope, zooming in on images to create more clarity and visibility. People who use optical zoom cameras are often amazed at the quality of the captured images. This is perfect for snowy conditions since people and things can easily get lost with white dust covering the landscape. Images will blur and light will reflect on the surface. Therefore, an optical lens is a great choice since it can zoom in on potential threats and targets and make it easier to see.

Digital lenses comprise images completely with pixels. A digital zoom lens will enlarge the pixels within an image. If the camera was not effectively set up, this will result in blurry and pixelated images. This makes the visibility difficult and unclear. However, these cameras have an advantage to users on a budget. This is because they deter crime, promote well being within the area, and do not use multiple lenses. Less lenses means there is less glass that can suffer from precipitation, temperature shifts, ice, and other conditions.

Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) & Dome Cameras

Pan Tilt Zoom describes the capabilities of the these cameras. They are able to be controlled with a joystick in order to receive the most effective footage. While traditional surveillance requires three of more cameras, a PTZ covers acres by itself. Since this camera is more effective at covering large areas, the price to protect each square foot is enormously minimized. PTZ cameras use the assistance of special operators who are able to track a suspicious person. They are able to do this by zooming recording license plate numbers and zooming in on facial features. However, PTZ cameras do come with some potential drawbacks. Since they are so complex and have a wide variety of options available, they are easy to misunderstand and misuse. Therefore, in order to get the best out of these cameras, it is vital to have a complete understanding of them.

Dome cameras are on of the more versatile cameras in the market. They are able to be installed on walls on top of roofs, meaning they are not limited to only rooftops or ceilings. They come in many different sizes and price ranges as well, allowing them to be accessible to everyone. These cameras are perfect for areas with high traffic. They will not miss a beat and are able to zoom in and out without being seen. For example, a thieving customer would not be able to know if a dome camera was looking at them until they got caught. These ever vigilant machines will help you with your fight against crime. Additionally, the dome center will be able to handle snow, ice, and wind. It is a low resistance camera that does not require much maintenance. This makes it an easy pick against its competitors.

Summary

The right security camera is necessary in order to maintain optimal performance. Adverse weather conditions can be prepared for with the right maintenance and equipment. The correct surveillance camera is often the difference between a passing and failing system. Being aware of problem areas like under gutters, getting rid or rust, and ensuring you have the right tools will give you maximum performance within these harsh few months.