Real Life Security Cameras

March 5th, 2018



Anyone who has ever watched a crime drama on television is likely to have a lot of questions about video surveillance cameras in Chico, CA, which are often used to help the heroes solve crimes. There are, however, a lot of myths out there about these security cameras, due to the artistic license taken by the writers of these shows. This article will endeavor to set the record straight.

Question: How long are tapes stored?

Answer: Most modern video cameras record to a DVR unit, so there are no tapes. The DVR is usually filled up, and then older recordings are replaced by newer ones. The length of time it takes for a particular recording to work its way out of the system varies by the size of the DVR unit. However, thirty to ninety days would not be uncommon.

Question: Can cameras see in the dark?

Answer: Yes, many modern video surveillance cameras are equipped for recording in very low light in Chico, CA. These units are, however, more expensive than the average camera. Some sophisticated lenses record amazing detail in almost no light. A less expensive solution that many buyers use is to place the cameras near security lights.

Question: Can surveillance cameras read license plates?

Answer: If the right kind of camera is placed in the right position, yes, video surveillance cameras can read license plates. The angle generally needs to be low for this to happen. However, some of these cameras can read plates at quite a distance, and in low light.

Question: How far away do cameras see?

Answer: This is determined by the type and quality of the lens. Video surveillance cameras come with many different types of lenses. Wide angle lenses are often used to cover a larger parameter. That shortens the length at which the camera can capture detail. However, like still cameras, a lens with a long focal length will see a smaller area much further away.

Question: Can video from cameras be enhanced to show more detail?

Answer: In general, the answer is no. The feature actually used to zoom in on a frame of video is called digital zoom. The result is actually less detail and less sharpness. Many surveillance cameras in Chico, CA, however, do have the ability to pan and zoom. If a camera uses optical zoom, it is possible to get a closer look at details. This, however, would normally have to be controlled during filming, not after the fact.

Question: Can security cameras be controlled or viewed remotely?

Answer: In many cases the answer is yes. Many modern surveillance cameras have connectivity to remote computers and even phones. On such cameras live images can be viewed remotely, as well as pan and zoom functions controlled remotely.

Video surveillance cameras in Chico, CA have become very sophisticated, but those on television still lead those in real life in the richness of their features.

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
    Call (530) 327-7268