Five Key Considerations When Deciding Which Camera Is Right For Your Security System

April 18th, 2024



There are so many incredible surveillance system options on the market in Chico, CA. When you are ready to have more security on your premises, there are a lot of factors to consider. Finding the right IP camera depends on your security needs. To help you get started in picking the perfect system for you, here are five key considerations to keep in mind.

1. What Is The Lighting Like In The Space?

Most IP cameras have very high resolution and can pick up surprising detail in low light spaces. However, if your IP camera will primarily be used in places that have low light or darkness like warehouses or parking garages, you may want to select a camera with a night vision lens. If it will be used in a well-lit space like inside a store, you will want to pick one designed for bright lights. If your IP camera will be used outdoors in both bright sunlight and nighttime, you’ll want one that has a dual function. Choosing a camera that performs well in the light of your environment will ensure you always capture high-quality images.

2. Will The Camera Be Used Outdoors in Chico, CA?

If your IP camera is going to be used outdoors, you need to take into consideration the environmental factors. Changing temperatures, rain and snow, and strong winds can damage an IP camera not designed for outdoor use. You will need to select an outdoor IP camera designed to withstand the elements. Furthermore, since outdoor IP cameras are more expensive, it is not worth the cost to place them indoors. So if your IP camera will only be inside, you are better choosing one designed for indoor purposes.

3. Do You Need The Camera To Be Discreet?

If you are monitoring an area where you don’t want people to notice the IP cameras, you’ll want to choose units that can be installed discreetly. There are some models of IP cameras that are smaller than an AA battery. These are perfect for discreet monitoring. However, if you want people to see the cameras to act as a deterrence, you’ll want to choose a larger unit with an obvious presence.

4. Does The Camera Need To Move?

If you are monitoring a large area, you may want a camera that can move for a closer look at something suspicious. IP cameras offer a range of motion features such as tilting, panning, and zoom. However, cameras with these features are more expensive. If you are just monitoring a single spot, say a cash register or an entryway, these features are not necessary. So you can save money by choosing a fixed style camera. 

5. Do You Want Hardwired Or Wireless in Chico, CA?

IP cameras can be hardwired or can transmit wirelessly. Hardwired IP cameras require a more expensive installation. With this extra cost, hardwired systems are typically only recommended for top of the line systems that monitor high-value spaces. Wireless cameras can work in smaller spaces with lower value items. Wireless cameras are also very easy to move, so they are great for temporary monitoring.

Factoring these considerations can help you find the ideal IP camera for your security needs. However, the best way to ensure you get the perfect IP camera is to work with a security expert. Our team will evaluate your security needs and help you select the right camera for you. Give us a call to learn more!

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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