Home Security

Assa Abloy AB Checkpoint Systems, Inc.

Gentex Corporation Mace Security

NAPCO Security Systems, Inc. Universal Security Instruments, Inc.

Guide to Home Security

Choose a home security system and home security cameras for your home office
By Rebecca Turley

A home security system takes on more urgency if you run a business from home. Luckily, finding the right home security solution is easier and more affordable than ever. With a plethora of features, price points and home security systems available, you're sure to find a product or service that suits your needs and your budget.

Whether you choose a central monitoring service to install and monitor your surroundings, or purchase and install a home security system yourself, consider these home security products and services:

1. Wireless home security kits
2. Central monitoring services
3. Indoor/outdoor surveillance cameras
4. Video monitoring services

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Install home security surveillance yourself With installation and set-up taking only moments to complete, and no wires to contend with, a wireless home security system may be right for your home security needs. These wireless home security systems typically come equipped with a central control system, a power supply and a rechargeable battery back-up system. Like traditional, wired home security systems, these wireless kits can include accessories such as door/window transmitters, indoor/outdoor motion detectors and glass break sensors. Expanding your home security surveillance system is as simple as buying additional wireless accessories.

I recommend:  Home Security Store offers home wireless home security kit configurations, as well as additional home security devices and products.

Utilize central monitoring home security systems A central monitoring service sells, installs and monitors your home security system. The home monitoring service, which requires a monthly fee in addition to the initial installation costs, uses a central station to monitor your home. Should your home security alarm system be activated, the central station dispatches police, fire department or emergency medical personnel to your home.

I recommend:  Guardian Protective Services and ADT are two widely recognized names in home security.

Observe your surroundings with home security cameras Home security cameras have increased in popularity and ease of use over the last few years. Many home security camera kits include everything you need to install the cameras, watch the images in real time, via your PC, and even digitally record the images to a DVR, if desired. Wireless cameras are an option, as standard, wired cameras require a power supply and a cable to transmit the signal back to the PC. Wireless cameras, on the other hand, require the use of batteries or low-voltage cables. Dome cameras, bullet cameras, weatherproof cameras and super infrared cameras, capable of transmitting a picture even without moonlight, are just a few home security camera options to consider.

I recommend:  EZWatchPro sells complete home security surveillance systems and home security cameras.

Keep a watchful eye while away with remote home security surveillance Many home security companies provide services which enable homeowners to monitor their homes, even while they are away. Used alongside of existing alarm systems, these monitoring systems alert the homeowner, via emails or text messages, should their home security system become compromised. These systems, when used in conjunction with a home security camera and a DVR, may also make a video recording of the incident.

I recommend:  You can view and manage the NextView Internet Camera System through your cell phone, or through their online customer portal interface. This system takes a series of still photographs using your existing wireless cameras. However, when the alarm is activated, the system changes to a live video feed. Other features of this system, which charges a nominal monthly fee, include a dispatch center and archived videos and stills.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Check the details of your homeowner's insurance policy. Many insurance companies offer discounts on insurance premiums with the addition of a home security alarm system or home monitoring system.
• Factor in monthly monitoring fees when determining your total home security budget.