What is a Wireless CCTV Camera System and Should you Get One?
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems or video surveillance systems offer security to homes and businesses alike. Wired CCTV systems can provide security and peace of mind just as well as a wireless CCTV camera system.
The adoption of CCTV cameras continues to grow, a trend supported by the following three factors:
- Lower prices - a 4 camera kit can now be bought for a few hundred dollars. Technology has evolved such that it is now affordable for most people.
- Ubiquitous wireless networks - Users can quickly link up peripheral devices to their home network and even have remote CCTV viewing capability.
- Improved camera quality - both wired and wireless CCTV camera systems are today able to offer consumers affordable prices for HD (720p) and Full HD (1080p) CCTV cameras
Burglarized properties in the US stand to lose an average of $2799 per break-in. This figure adds up to a national total of 3.4 billion per year according to FBI 2018 statistics. Residential properties suffer 66% of these break-ins during which 60% of assaults occur.
No wonder the adoption of CCTV security systems is rising. Most people seeking the best CCTV security also want hassle-free CCTV installation. A wireless CCTV camera system could be the way to go for others.
Wired vs. Wireless CCTV Camera Systems
Wireless, within the genuine sense of the word, means completely wire-free. A truly remote security camera should therefore have a battery pack. It would otherwise need a cable to an AC power outlet.
The lack of cables means that a wireless CCTV camera system needs some way to communicate with other devices such as your mobile phone. The following are the main ways a wireless CCTV camera system stays connected.
- Wi-Fi - This is the predominant way that wireless devices communicate. Including wireless CCTV systems. Using Wi-Fi, security cameras can communicate with network video recorders which store the footage on a hard disk. Alternatively, the camera can send it straight to cloud storage.
- Bluetooth - Though it uses the same frequency that Wi-Fi uses, Bluetooth works only over short distances and can pair with up to six devices. If you move more than 30 feet away from the device, you lose connection. That is the main disadvantage.
An internet connection can overcome this. Bluetooth CCTV cameras connect to a home CCTV security hub. The CCTV security hub then connects to the internet. The CCTV hubs, via the internet, then provide remote viewing capabilities. - Cellular - this is not a popular option and is usually used as a backup in case the Wi-Fi fails. A cellular security camera uses 3G, 4G, or 5G networks to transmit video. Doing so requires a SIM card with a robust data plan that can handle the large data volumes associated with the video format.
The main problem with this connection type is that finding a data plan with enough bandwidth is costly.
Common Types of Wireless CCTV Security Cameras
There are three main types:
- 1. Doorbell Cameras
- 2. Outdoor Cameras
- 3. Indoor Cameras
- Doorbell cameras
These are commonly placed just outside a home. They allow you to view what's going on around the entrance to your home. When picking one, it's advisable to go for a discreet one. You may also want to look into other features such as two-way talk which enable you to speak to whoever is at the door. - Outdoor cameras
The best outdoor security cameras offer a crisp view of your compound and whatever is going on around the perimeter of your house. The best security cameras are durable, have long battery life, and offer clear footage in low light. Best of all they can act as a deterrent to trespassers with features such as motion detection coupled with floodlights and alarms. - Indoor cameras
These 'nanny cams' monitor the inside of your house. They not only maintain an eye out for intruders but can also watch over your baby or pet. When choosing the best wireless CCTV security camera system for you, do consider getting one with clever features such as motion detection and smart integration so that they can alert you of danger.
Other features to consider include two-way talk, remote viewing, high resolution, day/night vision, battery life, and storage options.
Should you get a wireless CCTV camera system?
A good wireless CCTV camera installation can be operated quickly and easily. The best of them can use deep learning techniques to offer enhanced smart security over time.
Whether you get a wireless CCTV security camera system should depend on how good your connectivity options are. And whether you have the bandwidth to transmit video images. Battery life is also a huge consideration. For some, it is a deal-breaker. A wired CCTV system will serve you just as well.