Most Frequently Asked Questions About Security Integration
If you’re planning to tighten the security around your home or office, it’s essential to work with a professional that can effectively integrate video security, alarm systems, and access control. Once the project is executed, it will give you peace of mind that your building is secure.
However, when it comes to security integration, there are many questions clients have, but they may find it tricky to get all the answers they’re seeking. So, to ensure you have all your doubts cleared, Pro Video Security wants to arm you with the most accurate information available to help you feel safe. To do this, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about security integration.
1. Can I purchase a hidden camera that can see in the dark?
The answer is yes, but the camera technology is such that it requires a secondary lighting source such as infrared lights. The camera solution is not magic, and it cannot see more than what your eyes can see, except for it can pick up infrared rays. Our human eyes do not see infrared lights, but a camera can. So that said, you either need a separate infrared lighting source that is sold and easily obtainable, or you need to have infrared lights built into your hidden camera. Many hidden cameras come with this, but you have to check. If you’re considering using secondary infrared lighting, such as a little pack that transmits those lights, be sure that your camera can’t detect the lights as well. Only some cameras can pick up the infrared lighting.
2. Do you sell battery-powered cameras?
We do sell battery-powered cameras but keep in mind that the battery needs to be reasonably powerful to operate a camera for long periods. So far, manufacturers have done pretty well at handling this task.
But, for the most part, a power wire directly to the camera is the best method of installing. We’ve had many customers who have used battery cameras only to realize that they forgot to recharge them and eventually had an event with nothing recorded.
Sometimes there is no choice but to use a battery. In such situations, you can consider a solar setup that will keep the battery charging. It’s an expensive proposition, but if it’s your only way of operating security in an area without electricity, it’s the way to go.
3. Can you hide the security wires so that they don’t be seen?
Usually, the answer is yes, although the walls are not hollow in some situations, or running them from one side of the room to the other can make it tricky. Wire cover is the ideal solution for covering wires and making them aesthetically pleasing.
Another idea is to run them through an attic, a subfloor, or basement where you can hide the cables in an area where you don’t typically use much. Keep in mind that running wire is an art and takes skill and experience. Our technicians are very good at it and can run wires neatly and professionally. If you were to do it yourself, we recommend watching some videos on the subject to learn some tricks as to how to make the wiring neat and clean.
4. Can I watch my cameras remotely?
If you have the internet at both ends, you can watch your premises remotely. You can’t imagine how many customers have asked us if they need to have the internet at the camera location to view the cameras remotely. If you take a minute to think about it, how else are you going to see what your cameras are picking up if it doesn’t have a pathway to reach you? You require the internet at the camera location, which then has to get configured with your internet router.
The next thing to be concerned about is the IP address which can change hourly, daily, or monthly. You can either purchase a static IP from your internet provider and pay an added monthly fee of $10 or more per month, where you can consider a dynamic IP updater. We charge $39.95 for a dynamic update or service each year. So this costs you a little more than a few dollars per month.
There are some areas of the country that still do not have internet providers. However, thanks to cellular routers, we have been able to bring the internet to almost any location. As long as you have cellular service, you can install a mobile router that works excellently and transmits the videos you desire. The only trick is that you have to have a special service from your cellular internet provider that allows video transmission. Many providers do not allow it, but Verizon does. But, you will have to pay a premium price for this service.
Remember that you’ll also need an internet connection on the receiving end. That internet can be in the form of a cell phone or regular internet service. Viewing can be done on a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
5. How can I transmit my video camera signal by wireless means?
Another great invention is the wireless access point. We can manage a camera over a mile away using this technology. It can send a video signal without wires from one end of a block to another, from your detached garage in the alley to your home, where you may have your cameras. We use this technology for a variety of customers’ properties. You will require electricity at both ends, but after that, it’s wireless.
6. Can I turn my alarm system on and off from my smartphone?
Yes, today, most alarm systems can be controlled using your smartphone or tablet. The app that is downloaded needs to be authenticated to be able to turn your alarm system on and off. You can also monitor it and see if the battery power is low and check other indicators with a history of events. You can even use smart devices such as lighting and thermostats from these apps to acquire greater control of your environment.
7. Can I install an access control system that doesn’t require a key fob?
The latest access control systems allow you to use the Bluetooth on your phone to open doors. As people usually walk around with their cell phones in their hands, this makes it an excellent option for those who do not want to think about key fobs or access cards. Just bear in mind, not all access control systems work this way, but you can upgrade and add this little feature to yours. Rosslare, Honeywell, and other manufactures of access control systems provide this add-on technology.
8. Do they make a video telephone intercom that allows people without smartphones to receive calls?
One of the biggest concerns when adding a security system is updating your apartment or condo building with a technology that not all residents can use. Telephone entry systems have come a long way, and many provide video that can be seen on your smartphone. Doorbird and ButterflyMX are a couple of the players in the multi-unit telephone entry system business. Door Byrd hasn’t got a monthly fee but doesn’t have a great calling for residents without smartphones. ButterflyMX has a built-in feature that allows landline and flip phone users to receive simple phone calls and allows the resident with smartphones to receive video. An application for your smartphone is required to take advantage of these features. ButterflyMX Charges a monthly fee for their service, but the added benefits are worth the price.
You can also upgrade to video using two wires of the existing intercom system in many multi-unit buildings. As long as the wiring is in good shape and you have two wires running from the vestibule to each unit, then you can use a company like Comelit to upgrade your system to video. There are many additional features you can use, including one that allows viewing on smartphones.
If you have any more questions about security integration, get in touch with the experts at Pro Video Security. As the best security camera installers in Chicago, Morton Grove, IL, we provide quality video surveillance, access control, intercom systems, and alarm monitoring to our clients.
Our services are available across Aurora, Naperville, Arlington Heights, Bolingbrook, Cicero, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Oak Lawn, Palatine, and Tinley Park. We also reach out to Western Springs, Wheaton, Chicago, Elk Grove Village, Franklin Park, Evanston, and Morton Grove, Illinois.
To learn more about how we can help you, please click here or contact us by clicking here.