Date: 23 Jun 2010 Comments: 0

For many years, homeowners who wanted to protect their home would either get a guard dog or spend thousands of dollars in surveillance equipment. But nowadays, the advancements in home security allow homeowners to protect and monitor their home without breaking the bank. These home security systems not only have motion detectors and audible alarms, but they also depend on high-speed video camera and object recognition. Home security systems range from do-it-yourself (DIY) systems to professional home security systems installed by an alarm dealer such as ADT or FrontPoint Security. Each system has its positives or negatives and appeals to a broad spectrum of customers based on perceived benefits and individual preferences and needs.

Do-it-Yourself (DIY)
DIY home security systems have improved tremendously in recent years and usually comes with a control panel, system keypad, door and window sensors and backup power supply that you purchase and then put together. Some also now come with video surveillance, recorder, plug and play cable and pet motion detectors. DIY alarms can be very affordable and generally easy to install; however, the homeowner usually won’t know something has occurred until they watch the video when they get home. Nonetheless, DIY home security systems are a great option for those who are on a tight budget or don’t have a professional alarm company in their area.

Out of the Box systems
For homeowners who don’t want to assemble a DIY system, out of the box home security systems are another popular option. One such system is Cernium’s Archerfish Solo. About the size of an iPhone but 3 times thicker, the Archerfish camera monitors and records video. You tell the system what to look for unanticipated intrusions, expected events or just unusual things that can happen when you aren’t at home and then the system will notify you with a video message to your cell phone or email. The camera uses “computer vision” to differentiate between a car, a person or even random motion. It’s totally wireless and doesn’t need a dedicated computer. It also works inside or outside which enables you to monitor during the day or night.

Another out-of-the-box home security system, the Vue, has peel-and-stick camera mounts, so you can place the battery-powered cameras anywhere in your home and monitor activity via the Internet. The Vue system network is able to handle up to 50 Vue cameras which can be setup indoors or outdoors. Its low-power wireless secure video technology, allows for high-quality live video, and covers a large area wirelessly and without a Wi-Fi device. Home security systems like the Vue are popular because they are affordable, extremely easy to use, and flexible.

Professional systems
For thoser who want a professional to install and monitor their home security system, companies such as ADT can send a technician to your home and install a wired or wireless alarm system for a low installation price. Monitoring can be less than $30 per month and the home security system comes with various features such as smoke and fire monitoring, carbon monoxide sensors and flood detection. Professional home alarm companies also offer quality video surveillance and even a personal emergency response system which can be crucial in case of a medical emergency. As burglars have become smarter and use more advanced techniques to break into a home, home security systems have become more high-tech to match current security demands. Because of this, protecting your home or business is not only easier and more affordable, but protection is stronger and more secure.