Protecting your home or business is a serious matter. Investing in a security camera can help with protecting your home, loved ones, and give you peace of mind from intruders and theft. There are many security camera options available that provide different solutions.
Trying to choose the right security camera for your surveillance needs can be overwhelming. However, once you know the different types of cameras and their benefits, the choice becomes clear. You can rest easy knowing you have another set of eyes and ears surveilling to keep your most prized possessions safe. Let’s start with the box style security camera.
How Security Box Cameras Work
Also known as CS-mount cameras, the box camera’s name is derived from the shape of the camera. Box style cameras are standalone cameras that can be mounted for indoor or outdoor use. They have been around for years in the security industry. Besides giving home and business owners peace of mind, other benefits of installing security box cameras include:
- Deter Crime
The visibility of a box security camera can serve as a deterrent to thieves. These cameras are not meant to be discreet. Everyone knows they are under surveillance which can discourage criminal activity in neighborhoods and business communities. They can also help monitor the productivity and accountability of employees.
- Customization
The lens, camera, and housing can be customized to fit the needs of the installation. The lenses are detachable allowing for changes to fit different situations and applications. Vari-focal and fixed are some of the lens options available. The flexibility of different lenses allows you to update the camera when your security needs change.
Security box cameras can now cover distances beyond 40 ft because of the customizable lens feature. Any changes in security camera technology can be supported with a box camera.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use
Box cameras are suitable for both indoor and outdoor surveillance. Due to their sturdiness, they can be placed almost anywhere. Security box cameras give homeowners and businesses the ability to focus on certain areas inside or outside of their premises.
Indoor box cameras can be used outdoors when you can protect it with a weatherproof casing. The camera housing is good for protection from dust, dirt, moisture, and water. if any debris or moisture reaches the internal electrical components of a box camera, severe damage can be caused. Other issues include:
- Corrosion
- Overheating
- Short circuit
The camera’s lifespan is shortened when exposed to the elements. Camera failure will eventually take place and you will be looking to replace it with another security camera. It’s best limit indoor camera placement to the inside.
If you need to add an outdoor box camera to your security system, check the IP housing rating before you purchase. The IP Code or International Protection Marking is a rating that indicates the level of protection of the camera casing against dust and water.
The minimum requirement for a security box camera to be “weatherproof” is an IP66 housing rating. This means it can withstand heavy rain, wind, and snow when mounted outside. The higher the rating is, the better the level of protection provided by the camera housing.
Other Security Box Camera Considerations
Night Vision
If you need to monitor areas around your home or business at night, then you will need an IR illuminator. Your box camera must be able to detect infrared light. Other night vision monitoring tools can include:
- Infrared LEDs
- Image Sensors
- Day/Night Features
Insurance Discounts
Not all insurance companies offer discounts because you’ve installed a security camera on your property. They may prefer security cameras that are linked to an alarm station that offers 24/7 professional monitoring. Check with your insurance provider about whether having a security camera can reduce home insurance rates and what security systems they cover.
Insurance Claims
When a home or business has been burglarized, an insurance claim must be filed. Generally, insurers will inspect if the damage is inflicted by a cause covered in your insurance policy. If you have security cameras installed with video storage, they would provide hard evidence to prove your claim legitimate.
Need Better Security?
If you need a security system installed or upgraded, or if you’re not sure what type of security camera to install, Gateway Lock & Security can assist you with all your security concerns. We provide both residential and commercial security solutions to meet all your needs. Our experienced technicians are the best in the business. Contact us today to learn more about our services.