Wireless Surveillance Camera Installation Tips

Surveillance cameras serve as the backbone of any reliable home security system. Strategically placed cameras enable you to monitor the most vulnerable areas, providing 24/7/365 protection against burglars and intruders. Today’s smart technology even allows you to use your tablet, smartphone or Internet-connected computer as an extra monitor.

Achieve Added Protection With Wireless Surveillance

Many homeowners in the Phoenix and Tucson areas are discovering the benefits of installing a wireless surveillance camera system. Because there is no need to run wires or cables, you have greater flexibility to place the cameras exactly where you need them. The lack of wires also streamlines and simplifies the installation process.

The following tips can ensure the ideal wireless camera system setup in your home:

  • Conduct a camera system layout: Before purchasing any cameras or equipment, determine where you need to place the cameras in your home. Many burglars attempt to enter a home through the front door, so this should be this is a prime spot for a camera. Other spots include the back door, off-street windows, detached garages and any areas not visible from the street. Creating a rough diagram of your property can help you determine the best places to install a camera.
  • Determine proximity to electrical outlets: The beauty of wireless camera systems is that they do not require connection to a central control panel — they operate via your home’s existing Wi-Fi network. However, unless you choose battery-powered cameras, you still need to plug them in. Make sure you select camera placement locations that are close enough to electrical outlets to maximize the advantage of “plug-and play” connectivity.
  • Ensure there is sufficient signal strength: Are there areas in your home where the Wi-Fi signal is unreliable? Placing cameras in these spots may result in poor connectivity and “choppy” video streaming. If you need to install a camera to protect an area with poor signal strength, you may add a Wi-Fi extender. Removing obstructions that may be blocking the signal can also improve its strength.
  • Maximize your cameras’ motion tracking capabilities: Cameras are available that can track movement — this allows you to follow an intruder or he or she traverses your property. For best results, install your cameras about seven feet off the ground and angle them slightly downward, as this will provide the most expansive field of vision.
  • Take advantage of remote monitoring and instant alerts: One of the biggest advantages of a wireless surveillance system is the watch live or recorded camera feeds with your smartphone or tablet. Using this feature will allow you to monitor your property — and gain additional peace of mind — even if you’re hundreds of miles from home. You can also receive instant alerts that will notify you whenever your cameras detect movement.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to Learn More About Wireless Surveillance Systems

Titan Alarm can help you select and install a wireless camera system that will provide around-the-clock protection for your Phoenix or Tucson property. Contact us for more information and a no-obligation in-home security consultation today.

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How to Install a Security Camera Quickly

When you don’t have time to call in the professionals, learning how to install your security system quickly can mean all the difference when it comes to your safety. Many cameras are DIY-friendly with a simplified installation process to save you time and money.

Predetermine the Location of Security Cameras

It’s vital to predetermine the location of each camera. Knowing where you want to install your system before you set it up will save you time and the hassle of relocating cameras once they are in place.

Whether you have one camera or five, install them where you have the most visibility of a specific area, such as your front and back doors, the garage or other entry points. Refer to the following tips to optimize each location:

  1. Place cameras high off the ground: Instead of placing cameras at eye level or lower, applying them to higher areas can protect them from vandalism. The higher location also helps to cover a wider scope. The best angle is for the camera to be looking down from a corner so that you can see exits and entrances.
  2. Keep systems under shelter: While security cameras are often waterproof, mount them in covered areas to keep a high quality of security footage.
  3. Mount your security cameras away from light: Installing cameras away from various sources of light such as the sun, lamps and porch lights can help with visibility and reduce glare.
  4. Use an obstruction-free area: With no obstructions in front of your cameras, you can increase the system’s view.
  5. Protect the cables: Place cables on the side of buildings or in safer areas.
  6. Place the cameras in an obvious location: Obvious placement can deter unwanted people from entering your home or property.

How to Connect Cameras Efficiently

Depending on the type of camera system you invest in, there are different ways to connect each. For example, a wireless system doesn’t require cables to run through the ground or a building, but components will likely still need to be connected to a power source.

Here’s what you need to know about the camera installation process:

  • Place the camera mount in the desired location and mark where on the wall each screw should go.
  • Make a hole for each screw using a drill.
  • Hammer in molding pins if available and screw the mount into the wall.
  • Position the camera to give you the best view.

PTZ Camera

Attaching a camera to a power source is simple, too. Most systems will come with a power adapter you plug into a normal wall socket. Plug the source into the outlet and the other end into the back of your camera, and you are ready!

Security Camera Systems From Titan Alarm

Get your system up and running right out of the box. Designed for DIY-friendly installations, Titan Alarm’s security systems  are simple to set up, so you don’t have to rely on the experts. As your go-to full-service alarm company, our systems allow you to control your alarm, camera, door locks, door, bell, thermostats and lighting all with your smartphone. You will know who is coming and going at all times from your home or business.

Contact us for more information about security camera installation today.

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Security Camera Placement Tips

Video surveillance cameras are a critical component in any reliable home security system. They enable 24/7/365 monitoring of the interior and exterior of your property so you can detect the presence of intruders and help keep your family safe. You can even use your smartphone or tablet to view live or recorded camera feeds while you’re away from home.

However, you won’t receive the full benefit of your cameras if you don’t install them in the areas that present the greatest security risks. The following security camera placement tips can ensure your cameras will provide maximum protection for your home:

1. Make the First Floor a Priority

Approximately 81 percent of burglars enter a home via the first floor, and about 34 percent come through the front door. Your security cameras should provide a clear view of the front and back door, as well other vulnerable ground-level areas such as the garage door and first-floor windows.

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2. Place Cameras out of Reach

Ambitious burglars won’t be thwarted by a camera they can reach — they’ll simply disable it or even coat the lens with black spray paint! Installing your cameras at a higher location will keep them out of harm’s way and also provide a wider field of view.

PTZ Camera3. Cover Secluded Areas

Nearly every property has at least one isolated spot that presents a significant security risk — it could be a ground-level door leading to a cellar, an off-street window, a back door that can’t be seen by neighbors or a detached garage at the back of the property. Make sure your camera placement strategy accounts for these hidden areas.

4. Don’t Forget the Basement Stairs

Some burglars will forgo the front or back door and attempt to enter a home through a ground-level basement window. Placing a security camera with night vision capabilities near your basement stairs will allow you to detect intruders who choose the underground route and provide around-the-clock visibility in this dark environment.

5. Protect Your Backyard

Backyards also present a heightened security risk, especially if you have kids or pets that play there. A security camera providing a view of the backyard will let you know if intruders — human or animal — have found their way onto your property.

6. Hidden Cameras for Watching Babysitters

If you’re a parent with small children, the installation of “nanny cams” gives you peace of mind by being able to monitor the babysitter and your kids while you’re away. Be sure to place these hidden cameras only in common areas of your home — living room, family room, etc. — and avoid private areas such as bathrooms or a bedroom for a live-in nanny.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Provide Expert Security Camera Placement Guidance

If you live in Arizona, Titan Alarm, Inc. can help you design a state-of-the-art video surveillance camera system that’s customized for your home’s layout. We have the expertise to identify and address the most vulnerable areas on your property. Contact us and to arrange a free in-home security consultation today.

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Video Surveillance Tips for Your Restaurant

Security Camera

Why do restaurants need video surveillance? A strategically positioned camera system can help to control internal theft that is a major issue in many restaurants. You can also more closely monitor your kitchen staff to ensure they are adhering to safe food handling and preparation procedures.

Other restaurant video surveillance benefits include increased security by being able to see who is entering and leaving the facility, greater protection against false injury liability claims, enhanced employee training opportunities and the ability for owners and managers to spend less time on security issues and more time on running the business.

How to Choose the Right Type of Video Surveillance System for Your Restaurant

The following tips can help you select and install the best surveillance camera system for your facility:

1. Covering your Biggest Troubles Spots

To deliver the maximum effects, restaurant video surveillance systems must provide clear visual images of the most vulnerable areas. Consider placing cameras in the kitchen, at POS stations or cash registers, in bar areas, at entrances and exits and in offices. You should also install outdoor cameras that monitor your parking lot, especially during the nighttime hours. And a surveillance camera is essential at drive-thru windows or order pick-up areas, as these spots pose a high risk for assaults and robberies.

2. Recording Capabilities

In addition to providing live camera feeds, your surveillance system should include recording capabilities. This allows you to review previous transactions and events at any time and can provide valuable video evidence whenever you suspect misconduct or criminal activity.

3. Flexibility

You may find that your restaurant’s security needs change over time. A wireless surveillance system allows you to easily relocate the cameras without having to deal with tangled wires, while also providing maximum placement flexibility. You can also easily add more cameras if you expand or remodel your facility.

3. Remote Monitoring

Even the most “hands-on” restaurant owners must leave the facility at some point. One of the biggest pros of restaurant video surveillance systems is the remote accessibility. You can use your smartphone, tablet or laptop to monitor live and recorded camera feeds while you’re running errands, picking up supplies or — on those rare occasions — relaxing at home.

4. Seamless integration with other Security Devices

Video surveillance represents only one component of a comprehensive restaurant security solution. Your system should also include the integration of devices such as burglar and fire alarms and access control products, along with 24/7 professional monitoring to ensure a prompt response of emergency personnel and minimize the likelihood of false alarms.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Restaurant Security Needs in Phoenix

If you own or operate a Phoenix, AZ area restaurant, Titan Alarm, Inc. can design and install a fully integrated security system that will provide the reliable, around-the-clock protection your facility needs. Get in touch with us to learn more about why restaurants need video surveillance to keep customers and employees safe and maximize profitability.

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Reasons to Consider a Surveillance System for Your New Home

There’s no doubt installing a state-of-the-art home alarm system is one of the best ways to protect your family and your valuables against the wide range of security threats that exist in today’s world. In the event of a fire, an effective alarm system will also provide the timely alerts to you and first responders that can literally mean the difference between life and death.

However, with so many security systems on the market, homeowners face this most difficult dilemma: What home security system should I buy? If you are building or moving into a new home in the Phoenix area, a Titan home alarm system is likely to be your best option.

Why Should I Get a Titan Alarm System?

 There are a number of excellent reasons why choosing a Titan home alarm system can provide the best solution for your home security needs:

  • Wide range of cutting-edge security options: At Titan Alarm, we offer an extensive selection of the most innovative home security system products on the market, including burglar alarms, fire, CO2 and smoke detection devices, motion and intrusion sensors, video surveillance equipment, visual verification image sensors and more.
  • Get the convenience of home automation: Many of our home security solutions include home automation where you can control and monitor your various system features remotely with your mobile device — you’ll know exactly what is going on in and around your home even if you are many miles away.
  • Centralized monitoring on a 24/7 basis: Your security solutions provider should be able to offer centralized around-the-clock monitoring and alarm verification to ensure a rapid response in the event of an emergency, as well as to minimize the occurrence of false alarms. Titan Alarm home security systems feature advanced technology to make sure you always have the help you need, precisely when you need it.
  • Comprehensive system integration capabilities: The modern home security system is a series of separate features, and it requires seamless integration to ensure maximum performance. Titan Alarm has the expertise to design and install a fully integrated, easy-to-operate system that will fulfill your total home security requirements.
  • A reputable company you can trust: Not all home security solutions providers are the same. It’s critical to choose a company that understands the unique security needs of Phoenix-area homeowners — and that also has a solid reputation for quality and dependability. Titan Alarm is a locally owned and operated security company with a proven track record of providing the best security products at affordable prices, along with prompt, attentive customer support.

Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About What Makes Us Your Best Home Security Option

The best way to learn more about the many benefits of installing a Titan home alarm system in your Phoenix-area home is to contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today. We’ll provide the right answer to that vexing question: What home alarm system should I get?

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