Choosing The Best Camera For Your Security System

February 27th, 2018



As useful as security cameras can be in Chico, CA when it comes to preventing crimes or catching guilty individuals, a security system really won't be of much use in all if the right cameras are not in place. Unfortunately, choosing the right camera for system can be a very difficult task with so many different choices available on the market. From those designed specifically for use in low light environments to ones that allow an individual to pan, tilt, and zoom, choosing the perfect camera for a particular application requires an individual to carefully consider the environment that they are installing the camera in and the level of surveillance that they need.

Before actually purchasing a camera, an individual may want to consider one of the many infrared units that are available. While these cameras work perfectly well during the day or when a building is lit, they really excel once the lights go out. The incredible advantage that they provide over other units is thanks to the infrared illuminators that allow monitoring in low light or even in conditions where there is little to no light at all. Perhaps most impressive is the fact that these cameras can be purchased for outdoor use, making them ideal for parking lots, where houses, garages, and other dark environments.

While the most common type of security camera out there in Chico, CA is probably the fixed variety, there are some very real advantages to choosing don't units that offer pan, tilt, and zoom. Although the bill makes it difficult to conceal these types of cameras, they do offer the operator the option of monitoring a wider area and they can even zoom in on a particular place or individual. Most of the time, the domes are dark or smoky in color, but the dome still allows the camera to capture high resolution images.

The cameras that are often used in places like convenience stores, banks, and supermarkets are sometimes referred to as Pro Box units. These are fixed position cameras that have incredibly wide viewing angles and generally offer a good combination of day and night surveillance. These cameras are a good choice when it comes to monitoring a particular area, such as anyplace where money is exchanged, and they have proven to be durable and reliable units that truly stand the test of time.

A person in Chico, CA will also have the option of putting hidden cameras to use for them. As camera technology has advanced, the ability to produce incredibly small, yet high-powered has made them a popular option. However, it is important to keep in mind that in cameras cannot be placed anywhere. Individuals still have reasonable expectations of privacy in areas like bathrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms, which means that installing a hidden camera in these types of places may open an individual up to criminal prosecution or civil lawsuits. When employees need to be monitored, such as in assisted living facilities, or when it is necessary to keep the camera out of sight, such as when being installed in hotel hallways, cameras that are hidden and clocks, exit signs, sprinklers, and other common items are an excellent choice.

Finally, there is the option of choosing cameras that are either wired or wireless. Wired cameras are generally higher powered, but having a wired system professionally installed can be very expensive. Wireless cameras, on the other hand, are an excellent choice when only a limited amount of surveillance is needed or when a system is only going to be in place for a short time. Another benefit to wireless systems in Chico, CA is that they can be installed by the average individual relatively easily.

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