What Is Smart Home Security Technology Buying Guide
FAQs
Most cameras these days are not only easy to install, but also designed to be as pain-free as possible. Here are the basic steps to install your security camera.
Ready to install your home security camera? Here’s how:
Plan placement - Map out your priority areas and the angles where you want to place your cameras. Each location should have a clear line of sight and, ideally, some protection from the elements. If you’re installing a wired camera, it also needs access to a power source, so you may need to drill a hole in the wall.
Prep camera mount - Many cameras come with drill templates to help you place holes correctly. Using the template, drill holes at the indicator for the mounting screws, and install any mounting pins by tapping lightly with a hammer. Then, you’ll be ready to screw the camera mount into your wall securely.
Install your camera - Secure the camera onto the mount and adjust it to the desired angle. If you have a wireless camera that requires batteries, install them first. However, if the camera is part of a hardwired security system, connect the cable extending from the wall to the camera before securing the camera in the mount.
Download the app - We often scroll through social media, but now, we scroll through different livestreams of our home! Most smart security cameras have apps that enable you to control the device remotely or to get livestreams of footage if you are out of town. Simply download the app and install it onto your mobile device.
Add your device to Wi-Fi - Once you’ve downloaded the software and app, follow the instructions to add the camera as a device on your Wi-Fi network, if it’s Wi-Fi-connected.
Test it out - Be sure to check out your video feeds and make any required changes to the positioning – you want it to capture the most optimal angles!
Yes, most modern cameras come with built-in microphones, which they use to capture audio while recording video footage.
Traditional surveillance camera systems typically don’t have a microphone, so they do not record sound. However, with many of the latest home security cameras not only do you have sound but two-way audio which uses a camera's built-in speaker like an intercom so you can talk with people.
Just like security cameras, video doorbells capture video, day and night, and audio through a speaker and microphone. Here’s how …
A video doorbell offers two primary features: convenience and security. Here’s how they work:
Video doorbells consist of a ringer and an internet-connected camera. This device is either battery-operated or connected to a traditional doorbell’s wiring.
The camera activates when someone pushes the doorbell. If you’re home, you’ll hear the doorbell sound. If not, the camera transmits a signal to your mobile or desktop app that shows you who’s at the door.
Since the device is internet-enabled, you can be miles away from your home, and you’ll still know when someone comes to the door.