STACK #241 November 2024

FEATURE TECH

Top tips Cameras are best installed at a height of 2.5–3 metres from the ground to capture faces and prevent tampering or theft. Position cameras at key entry points such as front and back doors, garages, and driveways, and be sure they cover any blind spots. Cameras connected to a home Wi-Fi network are only as good as the signal they receive. Consider installing a mesh network if your home has dead spots or a weak signal from a router. Tired of receiving alert notifications every time the dog moves? Simply adjust the camera’s sensitivity to motion or filter alerts in the app. When a video doorbell is combined with a compatible smart lock, you can grant entry to authorised persons from wherever you are. Engage the necessary security protocols to prevent any unauthorised access, and never access your smart security devices through open or public Wi-Fi. Keep the cameras’ firmware up to date to benefit from security patches and new features.

while battery-powered wireless cameras can be more easily setup and relocated if needed. Are they easy to install and set up? Wired cameras and doorbells need to be hooked into a power supply and may require professional installation, whereas the wireless variety can be set up by simply downloading the companion app, scanning a QR code and entering your Wi-Fi details – although some basic DIY skills are needed to install brackets. Indoor cameras generally come with a stand, so you just need to plonk them where you want them. For wall-mounted brackets, you’ll need a drill, screwdriver and, depending on the height, possibly a ladder.

Positioning is important during installation to ensure sufficient coverage of the areas/zones that you want to monitor. And wireless security cameras should be positioned within easy reach on a ladder for recharging. Control and management is simple via the companion app. You can quickly access live and recorded video feeds and arm/disarm devices remotely. And settings and modes can be fully customisable to avoid unwanted motion alerts. What if I’m renting? Wireless battery-powered cameras and doorbells are a simple option and portable for when it’s time to vacate. Renters can also keep a home secure without drilling holes and causing potentially bond-reducing damage. Some wireless models can be easily mounted using removable adhesive pads – just take them down when you move out, ready to protect your next residence. Is there a subscription fee for use? A monthly subscription fee is generally required to enable continuous recording, rolling cloud storage, and unlock more advanced camera features

What type do I need? That depends on the kind of home/property you want to protect. If you live in an apartment block, an internal camera or a video doorbell can be a sufficient sentinel, while a multi-camera system provides wider coverage for houses and larger properties. Also consider whether you want surveillance indoors, outdoors, or both, and the areas/zones that you want to monitor, such as all potential entry points.

purchase, but when that expires you may suddenly discover that video is no longer recording or accessible, and all you have is a live feed. If you don’t fancy adding another

subscription to the monthly budget, look for cameras with internal storage that can be expanded with a microSD card, or a compatible hub that records and stores footage at no charge. The choice is totally

not available at a base level, such as parcel or animal recognition and customisable smart activity zones. Some cameras and doorbells offer a free monthly trial with

Begin with a single camera or a starter kit to familiarise yourself with how it works, and then add additional cameras where needed. When choosing between wired and wireless options, remember that a hardwired system offers set-and-forget convenience with no need to regularly remove a battery for recharging,

dependent on what works best for you, as both storage models have pros and cons.

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