Home Security News

Motion-Sensing Security Camera Monitors Your Door

Did you know that burglars often come right up to the front door of a home and knock to make sure no one is home before robbing a house?  Maybe it would make sense to install a security camera that monitors door activity.  That's what Jasco Product's Intellicorder does.  It's a "virtual digital camcorder with motion sensing activation that allows you to capture high resolution video and audio of any visitor."

The door cam is easy for a DIY type to install, too, because there's no wiring involved.  It mounts in the peephole in your door, so thieves can't even see it from the outside.  But from inside, you can see exactly what's happening on your front porch.  The camera doesn't record 24/7, which would be a waste of batteries, but instead detects motion and turns on, automatically starting recording only when someone approaches.  It has an LCD screen you can look at, or you can take the captured video, which is recorded on a SD memory card (similar to what your digital camera uses), and load it onto your computer.

The Intellicorder will cost you about $300.

http://www.jascoproducts.com

Security Cameras Increase in Popularity

Security cameras are just about everywhere in the government and commercial sector (note a recent article on security cameras monitoring courthouses), but they're becoming more and more popular for residential use as well.

They are a smart part of any home security system.  You shouldn't use security cameras alone (since being able to identify the "perp" can only help you get your stuff back, whereas an alarm system will prevent a thief from entering the premises in the first place), but combining them with an alarm system, sturdy doors and locks (including windows), and a common-sense attitude toward home security (i.e. lock doors when you step out, set the alarm, etc.) can go a long ways toward protecting your home and your family.  Many would-be burglars won't even consider your house if they see a prominently displayed security camera on the premises.

Hidden security cameras are also popular among homeowners who would like to monitor what's going on in their house when they're not there (this is particularly useful when your children are being watched by a babysitter or someone is coming in to feed your pets/take care of your house while you are gone).

Today's technology makes installing a basic camera system relatively easy.  Thanks to home computer software and wireless components, a do-it-yourself installation is perfectly possible. 

You can get more information on the types of security cameras available at Security Cameras and Systems.