Are Large Format, High Definition Flat Screens Right For Your Security System?

April 16th, 2024



If you are looking for the best surveillance system in Chico, CA, you may be tempted to buy a 42” high definition screen to monitor your premises. This is especially true if you are displaying your monitor in public and want people to see the quality of your system for prevention. Large format flat screens are pretty incredible. They deliver high resolutions images in stunning detail. However, while we all want the most state-of-the-art equipment for protection, these expensive screens aren’t always necessary. Here are some things to take into consideration before investing in that expensive flat screen monitor.

You May Not Actually See High Definition Images in Chico, CA

If you are looking to monitor numerous cameras on a single screen, you will need a multiplexer. Currently, standard multiplexers do not have a high definition output. There are a few that are available in high definition but they are extremely expensive. So unless you make a big investment, any video you are streaming from your multi-camera system won’t be displayed in high definition no matter you monitor’s capabilities. With these systems, it’s actually better to stick with a smaller screen of 20” or less for the best quality viewing.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Now, you can go larger on a screen in Chico, CA. For example, if you run your monitor through a VGA out port on a DVR, you can get a good image on screens up to 32”. However, once you get a screen size larger than 32”, the image quality will degrade. Furthermore, running a large format monitor through the VGA port is the screen also becomes the monitor for configurations and maintenance. So if it’s in a public space, your visitors will see your technician working on the settings. Bigger screens are also not as discreet. So if you need to review any video, anyone will be able to see it.

A Smarter Option For Surveillance Monitoring

Large format, high definition monitors are not simply designed to CCTV specifications. One day DVRs and multiplexers may offer high definition options. However, for now, your best bet is to use a smaller screen. We recommend a 19” LCD flat screen for optimal viewing of multiple images. The image quality will be sharp, the resolution clear, and the screen is large enough to watch multiple images at once. Multiplexers tend to split cameras into four quadrants. If you need to monitor several areas simultaneously, you can always invest in secondary screens. Better to have multiple small screens where you can really view the images, rather than one big screen with low detail.

The good news is that smaller LCD screens without high definition features are way more budget-friendly. So not only will you get even better image quality than their larger counterparts, you’ll save some big money. To help decide what monitor is right for your needs, give us a call. Our security experts will help ensure that you get a system that provides the quality you need to keep your premises safe.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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