Guide to Door Eyes Security Cameras

Selecting door eyes security cameras for your office or business
By Lisa J. Jackson

A door surveillance camera is great protection for any location where knowing who is outside before allowing access is important.

A front door security camera has a traditional focused camera design which is preferred for deterrence because the doorway view is a locked line of sight.

It is best to know what your needs are before shopping. Things to consider when shopping for door cameras include:

1. Depth of view needed: The requirement for a door security camera is different if the viewable space is small, such as a foyer or hallway, compared to a large open area outside the door that needs to be seen, such as a parking lot.

2. Recording ability: You may need a permanent or temporary recording of the activity outside the door. A hard-wired or wireless door surveillance camera can record directly to a television, tape, DVD, or hard drive, in color or B&W. They can continuously record or be motion activated.

3. Time and expense: There are many door eye camera kits available for do-it-yourself (DIY) installation as well as professional installers for business owners wanting peace of mind with high-tech units.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Sneak a peek through a door eye camera The most inexpensive door camera option is the small peephole camera lens installed into an outer door at eye level. Slightly more money, but still well under $100 is the similarly installed fisheye peephole which gives a greater field of depth. Peephole cameras can have no, limited, or ongoing recording ability. A door security cam can be wireless and relay directly to your television, or it can be hard-wired to record to tape or DVD or hard drive.

I recommend: For those who want a door eye view without any recording capability, Hagler Enterprises has the SafetyVue Door Viewer. It is a DIY installation with a large interior lens so you can see the person outside by remaining seven feet away from the door. GLC Enterprises offers the recording-capable Peep Hole Door Color Camera. A B&W variant is also offered.

Avoid the door with an intercom-type door eyes security system An intercom-type door eye camera is a favorite for front door surveillance because 1) you don't have to be near the door to see who is at the door, 2) you can see them but they can't see you, 3) two-way communication is possible, and 4) you don't have to drill a hole into your door. The intercom pad can be standalone, attached to your phone system or even connected to your TV or computer.

I recommend: Commax Company, Ltd. has a variety of intercom-type door cameras and video door phones available with B&W or color displays. Aiphone Communication Systems has a large selection of slim, hands-free video units ranging from simple to sophisticated installation.

Get a different view with other types of door security cameras Another option for an unobtrusive security camera is the small lens installed with a doorbell. The viewing angle is different than a door eye or intercom unit, but its invisibility to visitors may be what you're seeking.

I recommend: Panasonic has a doorphone camera and intercom system, available in gold or silver, which is installed behind the doorbell panel and feeds directly to a monitor. Quantometrix offers telephone-based door entry systems covering a variety of needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

Door eyes security cameras are easy to use because once installed and adjusted, the viewing direction is set.
Although self-installing a front door eye security camera may seem the quickest and easiest route to take, remember to consider what prompted you to want a surveillance unit. Contacting a security cam installation provider may cost more but be well worth the investment to get the job done quickly and correctly.

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