Apr 172012
 

Wireless Home Security Systems are designed to help keep a home safe from intruders and other potential hazards. As technology advances, new systems are consistently seeing changes that improve the efficiency of the safety features and convenience of the device. Understanding the future of the systems will help determine if it is better to wait for the newest features or if it is time to change that older system before the newer options come out.

Newer Features:

The new features contained within the wireless security systems that are coming out include matters of convenience like a touch-screen, thermostat control and lighting control throughout the whole house. These are primarily about the convenience and better personal control over the home’s settings, but they do not work in every home. A home must have Z-wave thermostats and lighting to properly make the most use of this particular feature.

Beyond simply offering better control over the home’s security, other advances in the way the system works are also present. Newer systems make it possible for homes that do not have a traditional landline, but instead opt for cell phone services and Voice Over IP systems to obtain proper security measures. The GSM radio feature is designed to manage this particular situation.

The Advantages:

Understanding the advantages of the newer technology is a key part of determining if it is appropriate to wait or if the new features are not useful on a personal level. The advantages include: Continue reading »

Apr 152012
 

CCTV or closed circuit television, is a system that can be used to monitor or capture footage from a camera. Closed circuit is the opposite of open circuit television, which could be used to describe what we watch on our TV at home. Open circuit means it can be viewed by anyone, people can tune into the same TV signal and watch free to air channels such as BBC one. Closed circuit in contrast is something that can only be viewed by a connected device, a DVD player connected to your home TV is a closed circuit device, and likewise the cameras in a CCTV setup, are in a closed circuit.

In its infancy, back in the 1960′s to 1970′s, CCTV was very expensive and large in size, it was used in areas where security was of paramount importance, such as prisons, embassies, etc. Home users couldn’t afford the luxury, plus had little need for it.

Fast forward to 2012 and CCTV is everywhere we turn, it is estimated that the UK has more government and council run CCTV cameras operating than any other country. Are we a nation that is paranoid, or security conscious?

Cameras in the modern day are fast, small, discreet and above all cheap. The average home user can call to their local electronics supplier, pick up a 4 channel DVR with ample recording space, 4 cameras with Infra red lighting, all for around £250. Back in the day £250 wouldn’t buy you a camera.

Home users are savvy, they realise with a bit of basic technical know how they can set something up that will help protect their house, possessions and vehicles. Whilst it may not be the best executed setup, professionally setup, or the best quality, it is a great entry point with a low price tag. Continue reading »