Perhaps you have a video doorbell to keep an eye on deliveries and watch your front door while you are away. But how do you monitor vacant properties? How do you keep an eye on an empty lot, an empty building, or remote locations?

There are many reasons that you may want to set up security systems for remote locations. For example, contractors will want to keep an eye on construction sites to prevent theft and vandalism after hours. Storage yards that house expensive equipment might need additional security. Farmers may want to set up security cameras for vacant land or to monitor livestock. You may even want to secure a campground or monitor wildlife with a portable trail camera.

You may want indoor security cameras for vacant properties. You can use remote indoor security cameras to monitor vacation homes even when you turn off the power. You can also use remote indoor security cameras to watch barns and outbuildings, or to surveil parking kiosks and ticket booths that may lack power or wiring.

There are several applications for remote video monitoring. The challenge is deciding how to set up security systems for remote locations easily and cost-effectively.

Security systems for remote locations have unique requirements. There are specific factors that you need to understand in order to choose the right camera system:

Power
Any electronic device needs a power source. With home or business security systems you have power readily available. When you install a remote security camera system in a location like an empty building or a field, you need a reliable, self-contained power source. You have two basic options:

1) You can choose a security system with a long-life battery. You will need a system that can continue to operate between site visits, so the battery may need to last for months.

2) You can use a solar-powered system like the MaxRanger4K, or you can add a separate solar power system such as the SWIFI-SOLAR2 solar panel with an outdoor stand to a standalone wireless camera, like the Xtreem4K. Solar power is more reliable since the energy is renewable, and most solar systems have sufficient battery storage to run year round, including during overcast and rainy days.

Connectivity
Having a remote security system is only valuable if you can access the camera images. If you plan to use web monitoring, using a Wi-Fi connection is your most cost-effective option. If you can’t place a Wi-Fi router near the security camera, consider other Wi-Fi alternatives. Many municipalities have started offering free Wi-Fi to residents. Some cellular and cable service providers also provide free, regional Wi-Fi coverage for customers. In addition to internet access, you should consider recording security footage. You can set up a DVR or NVR to capture webcam footage from your home or office, or you might consider using cloud data storage.

Lighting and visibility
If you are installing a security system for a remote location then you will want a camera that has lights built-in or that can operate at low light levels. Installing a high-resolution camera with built-in floodlights like the MaxRanger4K, Xtreem4K or AllSecure 4K deliver a clear image and the motion-activated lights can be a great deterrent to thieves and vandals. You can also install standalone floodlights, like the 4K Floodlight with built-in motion sensor.

Image resolution
Be sure to check the camera specifications to ensure you have sufficient resolution for the size of the area you need to cover. A low-resolution camera may not give you sufficient resolution to cover a field or a storage yard, especially at night. Learn more about what video resolution is right for you.

Alerts and notifications
Since the security system is remote, alerts and notifications are essential. The system should alert you via text message to an intruder or some other emergency. Consider a passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors detector system like Swann’s True Detect motion and heat camera. Be sure the system sensitivity is sufficient to spot intruders, but not so sensitive that it sends an alert with every bug or raindrop that passes by. Read our guide on PIR-based security monitoring here.

Vandalism and tampering
Any security camera can be a target for vandalism, especially when it’s installed in a remote area. You have options to prevent vandalism. You can try a tamper-proof, clear enclosure, but a determined vandal could make short work of a plastic case. A better option is to install the camera where it is inaccessible, such as on a high pole or rooftop. It’s important to remember not to mount the security camera(s) too high as then their PIR (approximately 8 metres) and night vision operating range may be exceeded.

Weatherproof
Of course, a remote security camera mounted outdoors needs to be weatherproof. Choose a security system designed to withstand the elements, including high wind, driving rain, and extreme temperatures. A weatherproof system will give you longer, more reliable service.

Swann offers a wide variety of security systems that are capable of monitoring all types of remote or vacant locations. For example, the Swann Outdoor Wi-Fi Spotlight Security Camera (SWIFI-2KOCAM) is fully weatherproof and solar-compatible. This camera is high fidelity with 2K resolution for greater detail. It includes True Detect heat and motion sensors that activate a light and siren, and features two-way audio so you can listen to and deter intruders. Night2Day color night vision gives vision to 30m and color video up to 20m. The system also saves clip recordings to the cloud.

If you need to cover a wider area, Swann’s AllSecure4k is a multi-camera wireless security system. The AllSecure4K can record up to two years of clips on a 1TB hard drive. It also features talk and listen capabilities and color night vision for up to 10m with the spotlight.

Of course, Swann also offers individual components so you can create your own remote security system.

If you are looking for the right security systems for remote locations, you don’t have to look any further than Swann.

The post Monitoring Vacant Properties with a Wireless Security Camera appeared first on Completehome.

Solar-powered security cameras offer several advantages over conventional systems.

Unlike wired security systems, which need to be professionally connected to your home’s wiring, solar-powered systems are significantly easier to install – no hard wiring. Drawing power from solar panels, these systems work virtually anywhere with access to sunlight. And, while they’re a smart choice for homes and businesses, solar systems also offer a solution for more remote locations or construction sites; anywhere where access to power is tricky.

Currently, solar-powered security camera systems are providing continuous, live, 360-degree footage and clear night vision to numerous farms, construction sites, event venues, homes, and businesses across Australia. They’re equally as reliable as any traditional set-up.

Unlike their wired counterparts, Solar security cameras are a truly wireless solution. They connect to your central home security system via Wi-Fi and are far simpler to install. And, while wired cameras typically require placement near power supply, a solar option can be installed anywhere making them more convenient, especially for remote locations.

What’s the lifespan of a solar powered security system?
Quality solar-powered security systems – like the MaxRanger4K by Swann – are made to last. On average a well-maintained system should have between a 5 and 10 year lifespan. The systems are robust, waterproof and made to withstand the elements. They also require very little maintenance, which also adds value to the investment.

Solar-powered security cameras offer unparalleled convenience, allowing for self-installation even in areas without access to power outlets, making them particularly suitable for remote locations. While they may entail a higher initial cost due to the inclusion of solar panel components, the reduced maintenance requirements and absence of ongoing electricity bills contribute to their long-term cost-effectiveness. Moreover, the environmental benefits of harnessing renewable solar energy add another advantage to the list. It is, however, essential to acknowledge their dependency on sunlight for charging, which remains their primary limitation. Otherwise, the numerous benefits make these camera systems a smart choice for just about anybody.

Visit Swann Security for more information.

The post Solar-Powered Security Cameras and Systems. appeared first on Completehome.

Most burglars look for the easiest, most inauspicious points of entry when targeting a home. That often means the front door, where thieves will try to enter swiftly without drawing attention to themselves. The best deterrent: front gate camera security systems.

These systems not only reduce the chance of burglars approaching your home, but also allow you to monitor all of the activity around your gate, porch and front yard. From package deliveries to visits from friends and family to unwanted guests, your front gate camera will capture it all — offering practicality and peace of mind.

Need even more reason to look into these systems? A good security system can actually increase the resale value of your home. It’s an investment in your safety and your property.
Here’s what to look for in a front gate security system:

Key Features of an Ideal Front Gate Security System

Your front gate security is only as effective as your surveillance equipment. That’s why it’s essential to get a high-resolution front gate security camera, allowing you to capture important details such as faces, identifying features and license plates. Swann offers a variety of high-resolution cameras, from 1080p HD standalone cameras to multi-camera 4K HD security kits.

Capturing important details is a great start, but today’s cameras have many additional features worth considering. Swann’s CoreCam 2K Wireless Spotlight Camera has a built-in spotlight and siren, allowing you to scare away intruders and prevent unwanted activity. This innovative camera also features a microphone and speaker, making it possible to communicate with guests, strangers, delivery drivers and more.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a massive, expensive surveillance system for effective security coverage. Depending on your situation, you may want something as simple as a video doorbell, or you may want a network of several products. No matter what equipment you get, make sure it’s got a weatherproof design — capable of withstanding tough outdoor conditions.

Some home security brands allow you to integrate different products together, such as floodlights, door and window alarms and sirens, allowing you to customise your front gate security system to suit your needs. Swann makes it easy to link products together through the Swann Security App, allowing you to easily monitor and control your entire security system from one place.

No matter what security brand you turn to, look out for ongoing subscription fees. Some providers require subscriptions to use their products, locking customers into expensive contracts. Although Swann offers professional monitoring services, this is 100% optional and features no long-term contracts.

Setting Up Your Front Gate Camera: Best Practices

Wireless security cameras can be installed practically anywhere — just as long as there’s a strong Wi-Fi signal in the area. Wired cameras may also work on front gates, albeit with a more challenging installation process.

It’s also important to consider your Wi-Fi connection — ensuring that wireless cameras have the signal strength they need to function properly. If this presents an issue, there are two possible solutions: getting a Wi-Fi booster or buying wired cameras. Wi-Fi boosters work to extend the range of your wireless network, giving you a stronger signal further from the router.

Wired cameras require a recorder to function, meaning that you’ll need to invest in an entire DVR or NVR system if you choose this route. To set up wired front gate cameras, you’ll need to take on a more extensive installation process, or pay for professional installation.

Get Started Today

Front gate camera systems are an important part of securing your home. By arming yourself with a high-definition surveillance camera or two — and possibly other security measures like floodlights, door and window alarms, and sirens — you can protect your home and family for the ultimate peace of mind.

Ready to get started? Turn to Swann Security as your home’s first line of defense.

The post Why Every Homeowner Should Consider a Front Gate Security System appeared first on Completehome.