Sifting Through the Best Security Systems

Like all well-meaning parents and home owners, I am sure that you want only the best to protect your family. These days, the technology involved in creating and designing security systems is rapidly evolving, with home security companies churning out one new product after the other. So, how can one tell the 'leader of the pack' from 'the runt of the litter'?

The truth is that the best home alarm systems are the ones which are tailor-fit to your home's specific security needs. Read on to catch some tips that may help you decide on which security systems can best safeguard your family and your property.

Motion detectors and automatic dialer units

If you are most concerned about the threat of break-ins and intrusions, motion sensors installed near the gates and other entrances could help assuage this anxiety. Invasion into a motion detector's vicinity automatically triggers an alarm that may not only alert you about the situation, but also discourage and fend off the wrongdoers, themselves. Some advanced motion-detecting security systems are hooked up to automatic dialer units. When triggered, an auto-dialer can call up a list of telephone numbers preset by the user upon installation. Users often opt to route the first call to themselves or to other loved ones, and the second call to the police and other authorities.

Internet-accessible cameras

If you are the type who usually leaves the house for long periods of time, a security system that allows 24/7 mobile access may be best for your home. Some of the best security systems make use of cameras that send their footage to networkable Digital Video Recorders (DVRs). Networkable DVRs allow access and control over live or recorded footage anytime and anywhere, as long as an internet connection is available. Simply put, networkable security systems broadcast footage online; but only through the secured network that the user, himself, has set up. Most of these allow control through smart phones and tablets. Imagine getting a view of your security feeds through your iPhone – Nifty, right?

Covert vs. overt

If you want to safeguard your home against random threats of burglary and vandalism, going big and blatant is the smartest thing to do. Surveillance cameras installed in obvious places would certainly intimidate crooks and vandals. The thought of having their faces caught on camera discourages most would-be offenders. On the other hand, if you wish to keep tabs inside your home and catch unsuspecting crooks in the act, spy cameras would work best for you. Hidden surveillance cameras may be relied upon to gather useful evidence. A dishonest household helper or nanny may have a go at your valuables, not knowing you'll be on to them in no time.

Wired vs. Wireless

The question of whether to go with wired or wireless cameras depends on how you wish to install and maintain the system. Installing wired cameras may seem to be a taxing chore for most, with all the unfamiliar cords involved. Also, installing the cameras stealthily may become a challenge due to these tell-tale wires. The plus side is that after mounting the cameras and setting up the DVR, aside from monitoring the footage, nothing else demands great attention – And most security companies will do the installation for you. Installing wireless cameras is less daunting as these were primarily made for easy installation. However, a certain level of computer/networking know-how is required to set-up the networkable DVR and its connection to the installed cameras. In addition, a periodic changing of camera batteries needs to be performed.

Now that you know all the factors that you need to consider, it’s time to look around your house and identify your needs. Whichever you eventually choose to work with, just make sure that you familiarize yourself with how your system works. That way, you can be sure that you are maximizing your system's capabilities, acquiring optimal security and getting your hard-earned money's worth.

For more tips and guidelines in choosing a home security system, visit Best Home Alarm Companies at www.best-home-alarm-companies.com. BHAC provides in depth reviews on the Top 5 home security companies in the US through a systematic process that considers costs, technology and customer service.