Which Camera Is Right For You?

January 26th, 2024



The options when it comes to video surveillance systems in Chico, CA are wider and more varied than ever before. It was not so very long ago when security cameras were big, bulky items that were either easily spotted in the corner of a room or poorly hidden underneath dark domes in the ceiling. Nowadays, however, security cameras can be found that are smaller than a AA battery and capable of capturing crystal clear images even in low light conditions. This means that an individual who is considering a security camera system will need to explore some of the different options in order to determine which type of camera best suits their particular needs.

While most cameras will do an adequate job in a wide variety of environments, there are definitely units that perform better in low light or bright light. A person who is considering installing cameras in an area like a warehouse or an outdoor setting will want to consider choosing a lowlight camera or one that is designed to record both during the day and at night. Day and night cameras will likely be more expensive than ones designed for only a single light setting, but they will make it possible to monitor an area 24 hours a day.

There is also a very big difference between cameras designed for indoor and outdoor use. When an outdoor area is going to be under surveillance, it is absolutely crucial that a person invests in a camera that is designed to withstand the elements. Changing temperatures, heat, sunlight, rain, snow, and wind can quickly destroy an indoor camera if it is being used outside. Outdoor cameras can be used indoors, but because of the added cost that high-quality outdoor units go for when compared to cameras designed specifically for indoor use, it is not usually worth the money to purchase a dedicated outdoor camera if it is going to be placed inside a building.

In the past, surveillance systems were hardwired into a building in Chico, CA, which made having them professionally installed incredibly expensive. While the top-of-the-line systems are still hardwired in most cases, individuals now have the option of choosing wireless cameras. One of the benefits to using wireless cameras is that they can be installed almost anywhere and even a complete novice can get a basic security system up and running in almost no time. Of course, wireless cameras will probably cost more than cheaper, wired versions. If an individual is looking to only run a security surveillance system for a short period of time, a wireless system may be the best choice since it can be easily removed or repositioned once the need for surveillance has ended.

Another option when it comes to choosing the perfect security camera is whether or not to buy one that can pan, tilt, and zoom or one that is fixed in a particular position. Again, this will depend largely on the area that an individual is interested in monitoring. If only a single cameras going to be used in a large area, a camera that can be turned remotely and zoom in on a particular person or place is a great option to have. If only a single area is going to be monitored, such as the cash register in a gas station, a fixed camera will probably do the job just fine.

Although it will not be dependent on the type of camera that a person chooses, an individual will also have the option of viewing their surveillance footage remotely or on the premises in Chico, CA. Remote viewing is a good choice when management is looking to keep track of a particular area but is not on site to do so.

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