number of burglaries has declined since 1990, having more than a million cases is still a lot. In turn, installing a wireless security camera grants 300% more safety than homes not equipped with these devices.
Yet, to get the best home security company in Houston home security company in Houston you still need to know how wireless security cameras work. We will help you with that. First, let’s answer the question above and find the difference between wired and wireless cameras. Second, let’s assess wireless security cameras’ pros and cons and determine their types and use groups.
Wireless Security Cameras in a Nutshell
So, how does a wifi security camera work? In short, a wireless camera captures video data and then translates it via an RF or radio transmitter. These cameras sent video data to a receiver connected to some built-in storage device. For an additional cost, you can have video stored in the cloud. For output, you can have a monitor connected to a receiver. It gives access to images or video clips.
Most wireless security cameras receive and send data via incoming and outgoing messages. For example, you offer some commands to a camera, such as changing its field of view or altering a motion sensor. In turn, an outgoing message is sent by a security camera. It can be a livestream to your smartphone or transmission to some professional monitoring system.
Wired vs. Wireless
Original security cameras required some type of electrical source to work. For example, these wired security cameras use video cables to transmit signals to a receiving device. In contrast, wireless security cameras do not need cables to transmit video and audio signals. In short, these cameras use the following wireless technologies:
- Wi-Fi. You can use a home Wi-Fi network to handle incoming and outgoing messages. In addition, a Wi-Fi connection can be used to store a video signal in the cloud or send it to local Digital Video Recorder (DVR) units.
- Bluetooth. Bluetooth works on the same frequency as Wi-Fi. However, this wireless technology connects the receiving devices via star topology. Therefore, Bluetooth connection works on short distances.
- Cellular. Some wireless security cameras rely on cellular networks. Most often, cellular works as a backup for Wi-Fi networks.
- Z-Wave. Engineers developed this technology to work with smart technologies. Yet, Z-Wave does not have enough bandwidth to transmit video data. So, this wireless technology is used to connect different parts of your home security system.
There is an ongoing debate concerning wired and wireless cameras. On the one hand, wired security cameras cannot be jammed and offer crystal-clear video output. On the other hand, wires are messy, and you cannot transmit video outside your home. It is safe to say wireless technologies will soon make wired cameras obsolete.
Advantages of Wireless Cameras
Now, we know how wireless cameras work. We also know they are better than wired cameras. Next, let’s find out the particular advantages of Wi-Fi cameras, which are the following:
- Easy installation
- Easy operation
- Have various advanced features, ex. Machine Learning (ML)
- You don’t need a security hub to see footage outside your home
These are advantages making wireless security cameras a favorable choice among users. You don’t need all the messy and tangled wires with wireless. Besides, they can be installed in several clicks, and there is always a manual to help you with that. Finally, home security systems offer additional features like alarm monitoring that make your home much safer.
Limitations of a Wireless Security Camera
Despite all the advantages, wireless cameras have their limitations. When buying one, keep in mind the following cons:
- A completely wireless camera relies on battery power, which means you need to change the battery from time to time. Luckily, innovative solar-powered security cameras are entering the market.
- You’ll get a faulty signal if a wireless camera is placed too far away from your router. The rule of thumb dictates installing wireless cameras no more than 150 feet from the router.
- Brick and concrete walls can impact the strength of the wireless signal.
- Wireless cameras need a lot of bandwidth to transmit high-resolution images and video clips. It means you need to have a strong Internet connection at all times.
Considering the aforementioned aspects, you need to prepare your home for a wireless security camera that would work for the safety of your home. Ensure you have a good Internet connection and the router is near the camera. Besides, if you have brick or concrete walls in your house, install a wireless security camera in direct sight with a router, if possible.
Types of Wireless Surveillance Cameras
With all the ups and downs of wifi security cameras working in sight, let’s talk about different types of wireless surveillance cameras. Essentially, there are three main types of cameras with wireless technology to consider:
- Outdoor wireless surveillance cameras. As the name implies, you install these types of cameras on the exterior of your house. They show you everything around your perimeter. Outdoor wireless cameras are not suitable for people living in apartments. Besides, remember that these cameras have IP ratings, each corresponding to weather conditions they can withstand.
- Indoor wifi security cameras. They are often known as nanny cameras. You install them in your home. Indoor wireless security cameras show if someone breaks into your house.
- Doorbell cameras. At the moment, these cameras are the most popular home security devices. They protect the entrance to your house. Doorbell wireless cameras show what is happening on the doorstep. So, it is better to place them near your front door.
When it comes to choosing a particular type of wireless security camera, it all depends on your needs. For example, if you want to know what is happening outside your home, you can use outdoor or doorbell cameras. In turn, indoor wireless security cameras are your best option if you want to see what is happening inside your house.
Who Needs Wireless Home Security Cameras?
Knowing how wireless security cameras work grants you a range of possibilities. In such a case, different groups can tap into wifi security cameras. One should mention the following groups:
- Families and homeowners. Wireless security cameras help prevent burglaries. However, people can use these devices to watch their families, especially infants and children.
- Renters. It is likely a landlord won’t allow you to tear up walls to install traditional hardwired cameras. That is why, as a renter, you can use wifi security cameras to protect your bearings while you are away.
- Landlords. If you are a homeowner or a landlord, you need a security camera to protect tenants and protect your property. You don’t need bulky equipment to set wireless cameras; you can move them from one spot to another for the best surveillance.
- Smart homeowners. Smart devices use wireless technology. Wifi security cameras can communicate with the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Wired cameras cannot do that. Essentially, in smart homes, a wireless security camera can be an integral part of your robust security system.
All in all, wireless security cameras work to help different groups. With the advantages a wireless security camera offers, you receive different possibilities to protect your home and your family. Choose better outdoor, indoor, and doorbell cameras to meet your needs. If you don’t know what wireless security camera to choose, there is always someone to help you.