Outdoor Security Systems

For a more comprehensive home security system, it is recommended that the exterior part of the house be also protected. An outdoor security system is different from its indoor counterpart. The devices in an outdoor security system should be capable of withstanding different types of foreign elements such as intense heat, extreme cold, dust, rain and the unpredictable changes in weather.

The outdoor security system requires a camera, a signal transmission media, the monitors, and the video recording systems. The camera is the input device for gathering images around the vicinity. The signal transmission media transmits signals collected by the camera to the receiving device, which is the monitor. The monitor is used to view the images collected by the camera. The video recording system stores the video captured to a storage device such as video tape or hard disk.

Pros: Outdoor security systems serve as the first line of defense of your home. With an outdoor security system, you will be able to detect possible intrusions even before the intruder reaches your front steps. The front or back yard of your house can be a safe play area for your children if you have security system installed.

Cons: Your outdoor security system components must be well protected and properly attached because outsiders may be able to steal your devices since it is placed outside your house. And another thing, the outdoor security devices are more costly than indoor security devices because they have additional protective components like rustproof, tamperproof and weatherproof casings. In addition, maintenance of the outdoor devices demands more resources than the indoor home security system since the outdoor devices are more prone to wear and tear due to greater exposure to the complex environment.

Brands

There are more than a couple of brands in outdoor home security you could choose from. There’s Panasonic and Clover for your outdoor wireless network camera (with audio options) and video server needs, Westinghouse and NuTone for intercom systems, Minelab and Garrett for metal detectors, Sony and Mace for hidden cameras, Toshiba and 4XEM Corporation for IP cameras, Samsung and Speco for CCTV outdoor surveillance and Skylink and X10WTI for alarms and motion sensors.

Price ranges from as low as $30 to $3,000, depending on the brand and the manufacturer, the features included, the number of components and the quality of the product. A Westinghouse WHI-2C 2 Channel FM Wireless Intercom will only cost you $36.95. Things can get as pricey as $3, 293.32 for Mace wireless DVR outdoor observation system, with 17” high-resolution color LCD monitor.

Some Tips

• If you are looking to implement a simple surveillance network outside your home, you should consider purchasing either a two or four-surveillance camera kit, and the corresponding outdoor housings. The system will be easy to expand later, but the key is to at least get started with a core set of equipment.
  
• It is recommended that you consult a professional during the planning stage of the security system for better decisions in buying the necessary hardware.