Better Cameras Catching the Thieves and Robbers

We now find CCTV Cameras being used in a number of different ways. As the cameras improve, they are used not only for surveillance, but with better resolution and more available bandwidth, you can find CCTV cameras being used in producing videos for training, as well as recording perpetrators of criminal activity.

Over the last decade, the use of Closed-circuit television (CCTV), has been expanded to include IP cameras in both closed and open networks.  Decentralized IP-based CCTV cameras, equipped with sensors, can record and transmit images to storage devices such as Hard Disk Drives, or even to flash memory.

As bandwidth has become more readily available, some CCTV security cameras are able to capture and transmit High definition imagery over local networks. There are additional benefits, with remote operational capability, and resolutions that allow the discernment of license plate numbers from distant and remote locations.

The cameras have found suitability in surveillance for law enforcement where details are high -resolution is warranted. Many of the new models include IR LED for better light, even in the dark.

The features can include a progressive scan CMOS image sensor, with super high resolution of 1080p with an 3.7 mm lens. Much of the software included in the systems have also improved to integrate analysis of both video and data.

Many thieves have been caught with CCTV Camera systems that were integrated into “bait cars” with operational devices that shut the engines and lock the doors when it has been activated

The camera networks are built to support a multiple number of cameras, sometimes as much as 2000 cameras from different manufacturers. Many of today's models are very easy to scale. The biggest advancements have been made in integration, and the many sensors that have been included are able to identify and resolve some incidents according to established priority.

What has become even more intriguing is the expanded use of CCTV cameras into other areas, such as telemedicine or teleconferencing

In situations where high levels of security, networks cameras can provide 360-degree views with amazing clarity. The occurrence of blind spots are eliminated, and the need for a multiple number of units is also eliminated. Images are captured and transmitted with minimal distortion. There are some models that work in almost total darkness, while still delivering images with 1920x1080 HD resolution, with accurate color reproduction.

There is no longer a need to have separate cameras for operation during the night or day. A new unit, designed for outdoor surveillance includes auto adjust features for low light conditions. The camera features a variable focus zoom lens and SRLED IR illuminators. The viewing range of 30 meters with 1080p resolution HD, makes it easy to monitor outdoor areas at night without the use of additional hardware

The only apparent disadvantage or perceptions to be overcome, are the application of IP cameras in external environments. The cameras need to be resistant to a wide range of temperatures, and varied weather conditions along with electromagnetic interference. The need is for hardened systems that can operate reliably to make the crooks job even more difficult.

CCTV Camera Surveillance Becomes Essential for Small Businesses

Loss prevention is vital to businesses of all sizes. The bigger retailers already recognize and acknowledge the problem. They may at times be reluctant to state individual figures, but, the number is estimated to be in the tens of billions annually. The bigger retailers may have easy and ready access to resources for prevention, but smaller business owner may continue to be vulnerable, as they may still be using outdated technology. The combined problems may include the lack of both financial and technical resources.

The landscape may be changing with the introduction of cheaper and much improved video surveillance technology that make use of CCTV Cameras. The playing field  is quickly becoming level, with the introduction of much faster data transfer rates, improved compression technology, more available internet access, and developments in field of cloud computing.

The development of video-surveillance-as-a-service or VSaaS in the cloud, now gives smaller businesses the opportunity to upgrade their CCTV camera systems in a cost effective manner. The upfront costs are much lower, and there is now no need much technical expertise, as the software is located in the clouds, and managed and maintained by the service provider. As with cloud-based services, you only pay for what you use, and, there is no need to manage complex software systems.

The typical CCTV Camera installation in a smaller business can be a maximum of 10 units, and they can include cameras in different locations. There are several benefits that appear to be advancing the use of cloud based VSaaS

1. Small business owners do not need the use of costly IT services, as the systems can be very simple to use. In many cases it is as simple as logging in and operating a simple interface with the click of a mouse or the push of a button. The requirements are no more difficult than using a computer, or operating a camera. The only maintenance required, may be that of the cameras, which is minimal.
2. The upfront costs are much lower. All data is hosted in the clouds, and all that is required is the CCTV camera installations. Cameras are becoming much more powerful at lower costs. To keep costs low, it may also be possible to use backward compatible analog cameras, with the addition of IP encoders. Integrators are now offering turnkey packages able at affordable rates for small business owners to ease cash flow problems, with monthly payments.
3. High definition video images can be transmitted at much lower cost as video compression technology improves. IP enabled HD cameras can submit images of superior quality, when compared to analog systems. All that is required to access the images is an internet connection, and mission critical imagery can be accessed from anywhere there is internet access.

VSaaS can be used to help smaller retailers and franchise owners to operate safely at much lower costs. The internet everywhere solutions are easily enabled with the use of IP technology. Minimal investment is now required to install beneficial loss prevention procedures, and these procedures have demonstrated significant financial and emotional benefits.

Can you Complete a Basic Home Theater Installation?

There are a few key components necessary for a basic Home Theater Installation. There are both advantages and disadvantages to using prepackaged home theaters, which are also referred to as a home theater in a box, as there are for mixing and matching components. One obvious advantage of using the home theater in box, is that there may be less concern for compatibility problems as the components will be sourced from the same manufacturer.

The major components in your basic Home theater installation will usually include an audio/visual receiver or AVR, the speaker system will likely be the 5.1-channel surround sound home theater speakers, an audio video signal source such as a television and the necessary cables to connect them.

The receiver will be at the core of the entire system, as it receives and processes the signals that are sent to the speakers and the television. It would normally include a radio tuner and an amplifier with multiple channels. It is where you can switch between sources and channels, or improve the resolution of the videos.

You may be able to upgrade your speaker system to 7.1 surround sound, with the addition of another pair of speakers, but before you do, you should evaluate your surroundings to ensure that you have adequate room.

The audio video signals can be supplied by a number of devices that include a set top box, a disc player, or even a gaming console. Set top boxes may also be able to support streaming content from many of the providers over the internet. Blu-ray players also have the capability for streaming, so having internet access is also important. In addition it can also be done wirelessly by adding the device to your router or LAN.

You will need to ensure that you have the right number or lengths of HDMI cables.

If you are confident that you have all of the necessary components and the required tools, your best option may to first consult a professional as there may be some undisclosed hazards or obstacles that may not be apparent.  Home Theater Installations may sometime require wiring that should only be handled by certified electricians.

However there are a few home theater installation tips that can get you going in the right direction.

• Ensure that there is enough clearance for proper ventilation of you AV gear to avoid overheating.
• Speaker should be wall mounted slightly above ear level when seated, and woofer and sub-woofers should be at least 12 inches away from the wall to avoid sound reflection.
• All cables should be properly labeled.
• After installation, all equipment should be calibrated for both sound and video performance.

The testing and calibration is necessary as your Home theater installation requires modification for optimum performance in your environment. There are special tools that are used to accelerate the process, which can be arduous when done through trial and error.

A few accessories may be available for purchase online, but proper use, requires training and a sometime steep learning curve.

The process can be accomplished much more efficiently and much better results can be achieved with the help of professional TV installers. 

The Expanding Use of CCTV Cameras is Becoming Scary

CCTV cameras are everywhere, but more often than not, that they are installed in such a manner that they are not readily observed. We very often, need to look closely and carefully to observe them. At times they may even be disguised. It may be seen as a contradiction, where the CCTV installation must not be very obvious, while at the same time the law can stipulate that you must post a notice that says the premises are monitored by CCTV cameras.

What is even now more intriguing is how many of these CCTV cameras are being used. There are several models of cameras that can be worn. It can become a bit discomforting, knowing that someone can be following recording your movements without your knowledge. What may actually become necessary is a law that requires an explicit statement that announces that your activity is being recorded, just as it a legal requirement to disclose when conversations are being recorded, but we also know that the authorities can legally be exempted, when they are legally allowed to wiretap telephone lines.

CCTV cameras are also being used in even more intriguing ways, as researchers are developing some novel ways to read your mind using a CCTV installation. The technology involves the use of imagining devices and predictive software algorithms, which can record and read your thoughts. A camera that can read your mind is scary, enough, but knowing that it can be done from a distance is even spooky. It is not too far-fetched to imagine that someone, who may thousands of kilometers away, may actually know what you are going to do before you actually do it.

This is no longer science-fiction, and it may much be closer to being reality than we think. The algorithm is built to recognize brain activity from facial expressions, and detect aggression. Other systems are making use of Microsoft's Kine ct gaming sensor technology, that analyses body movements, and can tell when you are about to kick or throw a punch. They are said to more than 90% accurate. The system was first created to detect violent behaviors in patients, but is found to be applicable when transformed for use in security cameras systems.

It may come as no surprise to know that some of the companies involved in the sponsoring the conferences where the systems are demoed, include Facebook and Microsoft. We cannot yet visualize what can happen when the systems and technology improve to become widely adopted. There may be tremendous benefits , from the use of remote sensing technology and research continues into upgrading the technology, with audio capability, so that that is can detect when you are angry and likely to commit violent acts.

The takeaway is that you can no longer think of a CCTV camera installation that is simply monitoring your activities. It may be much more interactive and capable of handling much more than you would think it possibly can.

Getting All Tied-Up With CCTV Cameras

The police and other authorities appear to be getting in more involvement withh CCTV cameras, and the public also appear to have a increasing affinity for CCTV camera installations. Even though no one can readily tell if they are there, without looking closely, respondents of a recent survey, all state that they feel much safer knowing that CCTV cameras are installed and working on the premises.

Some unique twists and innovations are constantly being added and in some regions there are few programs that allows the business and home owners to register their security cameras online.

There may be a few disadvantages observed with the process, as hackers have been known to exploit vulnerability and post live stream of web cams online. Then there is the issue of invasion of privacy, which for the moment appears to have been relegated to the background. However if privacy is not a concern, having your security camera registered on line can offer several benefits.

When the camera is registered, a point of contact an a location is included. With current GPS technology, locations can be detected within seconds. All cameras will be allocated a listing on maps and when crimes are committed ,the database can be examined to find registered cameras in the region. 

 

Finding the cameras quickly and without much effort can be tremendous help to the security forces in the process of discovering evidence.

The pubic affinity for security camera installations, and the motivating factors behind the program appear to stem from the role of CCTV camera installation in the quick capture of the suspects in the Boston marathon bombing in April of 2013.

Images and movements of both suspects were all captured on CCTV cameras and quickly distributed, and with the world becoming more tightly connected, the chances of being identified can actually increase by several hundredfold. There is now nowhere you can hide.

Several security departments around the globe are installing similar programs, and almost everywhere you look, more money is being spent on CCTV cameras installations.

The cameras are available in multiple shapes, sizes and with various functions

Outdoor, indoor, underwater, High definition, wireless, infrared just to name a few and reports are that the rate of growth is expected to accelerate.

The continued threat of global terrorism, and more sophisticated hacking methods will continue to propel the security into exponential growth of which CCTV cameras installations will play a very large part. The global security market is expected to be valued at more than $8.5 billion by 2015.

It appears that there may be an undisclosed relationship in light of the controversy involving the NSA and privacy with the recording of transmission of messages, while the public seems willing to allow recording and disclosing of activities by CCTV cameras. Respondents claim that no harm can be done if they have nothing to hide, but at the same time dislike the idea of the authorities recording conversations without prior knowledge.

Global security includes not only cameras, but much attention is also focused on software, and there are sure to be some very interesting developments in the future. For more information visit us on http://www.nextdayinstalls.com/

 

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A Few Essentials Tips For Good Wall Mounted LCD TV Installation

 

Current flat screen televisions are becoming bigger, lighter and noticeably better. The LCD television display technology continues to be one of the most popular televisions, because of the price and design. They great space savers as manufacturers continue to focus on making thinness of the more desirable features. Many of the advertisements for the current crop of LCD sets are based on the thickness. Not only to they save room but they offer superior picture quality.

Many of the manufacturers are also insisting that the LCD TV installation must include wall mounted flat panels that are designed for better performance. It may not be readily obvious, and seem almost incredulous, that the performance of your LCD will depend on the installation. However studies have shown that it does have a great effect. To be effective, an LCD Installation requires some assistance. More than an extra pair of hands would be needed, in addition to having the right tools.

An LCD TV installation can be challenging, and help will be needed. You will most likely need help in areas such as drilling of holes, and connecting the appropriate cables and wires, in addition to mounting the brackets on the walls. In some instances, some electrical wiring work may be needed.

If you think that you are up to the challenge, there are a few steps that should be followed very closely. It may seem to be an ignorant supposition, but before you begin planning the TV installation, the first step is to ensure that your LCD TV can be mounted on the wall. There is an industry designation that is used for labeling the models that are ready to be wall mounted. IF it is not ready to mount, there are some accessories and modifications that can be made.

Wall Mounted televisions are designed with inserts for screws and brackets at the sides and corners. The designation will also show if the set is Video Electronics Standards Association or VESA compliant. There are different types of mounting and brackets that provide different types of movement, and you will need to make a choice of the type of movement that you will need. It makes no sense to install a bracket with 270 degree rotation, if your seating only accommodates 90 degree viewing angle. The choice of TV installation will also be determined by the size of the set and room size.

Perhaps the most important consideration, which should be done before anything else, is to determine exactly where the set will be installed. You may need to move the furniture around or add additional wiring. The best location may be one where the set can be comfortably viewed from any location in the room.

Ideally, the room should be as dark as possible and there should be no facing windows. A few rules of thumb say that spaces that are as twice as wide as the width of the screen should be left on both sides, and the optimum viewing distance should also be at least twice the screen distance. After mounting your TV, the next most critical step is to ensure that it is properly calibrated.

Choosing A Home Theatre Installer

Home theaters continue to decline in price, and they have become much more affordable, where they are no longer the domain of the wealthy. The classification of units has also change to include classic systems that can be comprised of a television and a pair of speakers. The home theater units are available in various formations and price levels, but what has become even more important is having the systems professionally installed so that that they perform according to the specifications.

You need a professional home theater installer to ensure that you get what is afforded to with your home theater installation. Finding one may not be difficult, but it entails doing a bit of work, because, like everything else all home theater installers are not the same. They offer different services, and can perform at different levels.

Your first task in finding a competent home theater installer is to define exactly what is needed in your home theater installation. If you are considering the purchase of a new home theater, you need to determine what you wish to do with it. What do with the home theater installation will determine how and where it is installed and consequently the skills that may be needed? A dedicated room will need different requirements from that of the installation of an external entertainment unit.

The family room that is used for many different purposes may also be designed and constructed in a different manner from that of a telecom or conferencing room in an office environment, so your home theater installer should have a specific set of skills or expertise in a specific area.

The questions that are asked will be used to determine the type of equipment that is purchased : 

For what will the home theater be used? 

Will it be installed in a dedicated media room, or will the room be used for other purposes? 

What will you be watching on the television. This determines the most suitable display technology and thus the installation. 

Will you be entertaining regularly? 

Will sound quality be important? 

Where and how will the speaker be installed? 

Can the room be modified to improve acoustics? 

What about furniture? 

Does the facility have the ability to support integration of other devices and components? 

Knowing more about the different video and audio technologies will help in your discussions, while the education will prevent you from being misled by the home theater installer. 

Now that you have a much better idea of what you need, you may also be much more confident in knowing where it should be put. Converting the basement into a home theater, may call for much more that you may initially realize. It may or may not be easier to use the spare room or the den, but you may also need to consider carpeting, wiring, plumbing and maybe even more renovation. 

Knowing what you need, you should then decide on the budget with which you are allowed to work. The budget should not be hard and fast, but can be subject to change for unexpected occurrences. You may or may not need financing, but the home theater installation may also qualify as a home renovation project.