Security cameras are becoming more capable and more advanced. Futuristic features like artificial intelligence and deep learning are gradually becoming more accessible. Image quality has increased markedly over the past decades too, with today’s cameras providing high-resolution images in changing light conditions. This blog post will help you determine which features you should look for when choosing security cameras: 

Wired vs Wireless Security Cameras

Wired security cameras rely on cables which are wired into the building and physically connected to a central router. Wireless security cameras, on the other hand, transmit data from the camera to the router. While wireless security cameras do offer advantages in terms of flexibility in positioning of the equipment and easy installation, they tend to be less reliable than wired security camera systems. 

Wired security cameras are recommended for commercial and industrial buildings as well as medium-sized to large residential properties. In addition to the superior reliability of wired cameras, it is also simpler and more cost-effective to link additional cameras to a wired system. 

 

Security Cameras with Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning

Security cameras are leveraging artificial intelligence to improve security outcomes. Cameras equipped with artificial intelligence are often capable of ‘deep learning’, which means the cameras learn to detect what matters and ignore what doesn’t. This advanced equipment helps to prevent false alarms from things like trees swaying in the breeze, birds landing in the backyard, or changing lighting conditions. 

You can read more about other applications of artificial intelligence in security cameras in our article: “DDA Video Analytics is Making Security Smarter: Does Your Property Need It?”.

 

Durability (IP rating)

When choosing a security camera, you need to be certain that it is durable enough to cope with the weather conditions it will be subjected to. IP ratings can help you determine which camera is suited to different locations. 

IP stands for Ingress Protection. An IP rating is made of two numbers:

  • the first relates to dust protection, and
  • the second relates to waterproofness.

The dust rating ranges from 0 to 6, where 0 offers no protection for dust and 6 offers complete protection from dust. Ratings for waterproofness range from 0 to eight, with 0 offering no protection from water and 8 offering protection from long-term immersion in water. 

You can read more about different camera styles and casings here.

 
Photograph of Provision ISR security camera in bright sunlight
 

Infrared Security Cameras

Infrared security cameras are capable of capturing lifelike footage in low-light conditions, including at night time. These cameras also need filters that allow them to ‘turn off’ the infrared wavelengths. These filters ensure the footage recorded during daylight hours isn’t distorted.

Where your security camera will be subjected to a changing lighting conditions, look for cameras with wide dynamic range (WDR). This technology allows you to reliably capture quality footage under changing lighting conditions, including

  • low-light,
  • artificial light, and
  • bright light environments.

 

Choosing Security Cameras for Your Property

When you choose security cameras for your property, you’re choosing the equipment responsible for your family, your workers, or your valuables. It’s best to seek advice from a qualified security professional. This ensures you choose security equipment that meets your needs today and into the future. Insist on a security supplier who provides custom security solutions to find security cameras for your property.