Choosing the Best Hidden Security Camera
March 20, 2009 by admin · Comments Off
When considering the purchase of hidden security camera (also known as covert security cameras and spy cameras), a number of options and alternatives are available. There are very small cameras that may be completely concealed and there are also covert cameras that are built into inconspicuous decoy housings. These include fake fire sprinklers, dummy smoke detectors, mock motion detectors, hats, pens, watches, neckties, and nearly anywhere else imaginable. “Nanny Cams” can be found in stuffed teddy bears and other simulated children’s toys. Many of these cameras use motion-sensor technology so that recording is activated whenever movement occurs in the secured area. This practical function is something you may have to spend a little more money on when purchasing a covert spy camera, but it will certainly be worth it when you find out you don’t have to sift through the ashes of constant, insignificant dead video footage.
So where do you start? Whether you are building a new surveillance system or adding some hidden cameras
to your existing system, the following checklist of camera options / functions should be considered:
- Camera Type
- Compatibility
- Capability
- Cost
I refer to these four criteria for choosing hidden / covert spy cameras as the “4 C’s”. Think about them when you are shopping around for covert cameras to build a new surveillance system or upgrade your existing business or home surveillance system.
By following this simple 4 C’s Guide, you can decide on the hidden security camera that is right for you.
Hidden Camera Type
As stated in the introduction, there is a wide variety of covert camera types to choose from.
Think about the actions you are trying to capture and whom you are watching. Is it your employees or customers? Is it your babysitter or your children? This will help determine if you want a constant video feed or a more sophisticated motion detection device. It also will narrow down the placement of your cameras and the type of decoy bodies you should consider.
Camera Compatibility
Make sure the cameras are compatible with your existing surveillance system or other components you plan to use in a new surveillance system. Do you require IP cameras or wired Ethernet types? Will you need a more powerful video card in your computer monitor? Also check your DVR’s minimum requirements and limits.
Camera Capability
The capability of your camera depends on various factors. Do you need a wide angle of view or strong zoom power? Perhaps you require infrared cameras for night vision and low light areas of your home or business. Do you need high resolution for focusing on small, far away objects or to distinguish text?
Camera Cost
This is a constant factor in any purchase decision, especially in these trying economic times. Prices range from cheap, pen cameras at $40.00 each to powerful covert cameras within clever decoy body styles upwards of $259.00 each.
If you are interested in learning more about covert & hidden security cameras, please visit the CCTV Camera Pros website. You can jump directly to the product pages by clicking on the above images of the different camera types.