Digital Vs Optical Zooms for CCTVs
A Plethora of New Tech Terms
Language is something that is always changing not only academically but also in the field of technology. You only have to browse through the internet to witness the number of terms that pop up now and then just as fast as new products make an appearance on the market. Often times, many people are ignorant of their meaning and if they know the meaning, they easily interpret them the wrong way and end up buying the wrong product. At Serious Security, we try to stem this type of misunderstanding by offering simple explanations of some of the terms.
The ‘zoom’ term that confuses many
Ordinarily, people take the word ‘zoom’ as the ability to get closer to an object so you can have a more detailed look at its less discernible parts. Though this is a peculiar quality attached to many cameras these days, some can perform the function better that others depending on whether the ‘zoom’ is done by a digital agent or an optical one. The video camera lens also possesses this attribute and luckily for us, the lens are optically oriented so that images produced by these optical lenses are just the images we are looking for. Digital or optical is the difference to look out for.
The ‘zoom’ with the blurred image
If you were in an arts museum in Italy and were staring at a Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo da Vinci, with camera in hand, you suddenly get the urge to take a photo of the painting. You do so at a distance and when you arrive home you ask a developer to blow up the image for you. You do get a blown up size but the details of the image and the image itself becomes blurred. This is known as a digital zoom and is exactly what you don’t want. You are determined to succeed in your venture and for the next time, you are going to perform a different approach
The ‘zoom’ with the clear details
When you do get your second shot at another try in the same country at the same museum with the same painting as the object, you try again but this time you decide not to use the camera but you move up very close to the painting to about say a foot away and Bingo! You can now see the details with clarity and satisfaction. This is known as the optical zoom that can bring the painting close to you or take you close to the painting so you can see the details and this is the kind of ‘zoom’ you want.
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We have optical surveillance cameras galore in stock this Christmas. If you want them installed in your house to secure your house, ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote.
Budgeting For Security You Shouldn’t Save On
It Doesn’t Pay to Skimp Security
With business security, it is not a matter of counting the cash and deciding to use as little as possible on security systems. Rather it is a time for calculating the amount that will ensure the security of staff, assets and ultimately, profitability. Adopting this attitude this Christmas may well take the security of your business to ten years hence, but if you are on the stingy side, your business may take a beating from the clandestine doings of burglars. Christmas season is not only a time for spending on goods; it’s also a time to spend generously on the security of your business.
Review you security needs
A wise business owner will take the security of the business seriously and will conduct continual reviews of security needs over time. Such reviews will ensure that the system has been properly installed, that it’s operating efficiently and has been updated to allow the introduction of new inventions. At Serious Security we are enthusiastic supporters of continual monitoring and reviews of security competency by business owners that do not wish to lose their goods or valuables to marauding burglars.
Some security tips to ponder
If you adopt a serious outlook for the welfare of your business and everyone that works in it, the following security risks may just send the right message to you for doing what you need to do for the security of your business. Your business may be exposed to the following:
- Armed robbery and burglary
- Stealing of valuable items
- Threats to the safety of your staff members
- Unsafe workplace grounds that occasions accidents to staff and visitors.
- Incidents of harassment and assaults
- Use of drugs in the workplace during working hours
- Serious theft of intellectual property
- Acts of sabotage or espionage to your business
- Disruptions to the operations of the business
- Acts of blatant vandalism to your premises
The logical solution
If your business is exposed to several of the above risks, the only logical step to take for addressing them is by conducting a whole review of your whole business operation and attempt to address these shortcomings by introducing the most appropriate solutions to your situation. Always remember that Serious Security will be at hand to assist you in your efforts. Think about installing a CCTV security system with many security functions that are likely to address most of the problems itemized above. The more review you conduct and the more solutions you introduce to address your issues the better for your business.
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We are here to help you make a success of your company and will help you carry out any reviews you may care to make and provide the security system you need to address your security issues. Ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote of our services.
The Laws that relate to CCTV on private property
If your enquiry relates to CCTV surveillance on private property, a few options you could consider:
- The Surveillance Devices Act 2007 regulates the installation, use, maintenance and retrieval of surveillance devices
- If the property is also being used as a workplace, you could consider whether the Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 is relevant
- If the property is part of a strata title, you could enquire as to whether CCTV is contravening a bylaw
- You can contact your local council to find out whether the practice may contravene any local laws. Some councils may require planning permission for CCTV
- If you have issues with the operators of CCTV on private property, you can seek mediation at a Community Justice Centre – 1800 990 777
- If the footage is being used for indecent purposes you can report it to the NSW Police.
NOTE THIS IS GENERAL ADVICE ONLY.
Engage a lawyer if you are after legal advice.
Below is the advice given on the OAIC page.
An organisation or agency that uses a surveillance device, such as a security camera or CCTV, generally must follow several laws.
If the Privacy Act 1988 covers the organisation or agency, then any personal information they collect through a surveillance device must comply with the Australian Privacy Principles. The Privacy Act covers Australian Government agencies and organisations with an annual turnover of more than $3 million, and some other organisations. Such an organisation or agency must:
- tell you that your image may be captured before you’re recorded
- make sure recorded personal information is secure and destroyed or de-identified when it is no longer needed
State and territory surveillance and monitoring laws also cover surveillance devices. For more information, contact the Attorney-General’s Department in your state or territory.
Residential security cameras (from the OAIC page)
If your neighbour has a security camera pointed at your house and you’re worried about your privacy, first try to talk to your neighbour. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you could ask your local community justice or neighbourhood mediation centre for help (see the table below).
The Privacy Act doesn’t cover a security camera operated by an individual acting in a private capacity but state or territory laws may apply. For more information, contact the Attorney-General’s Department in your state or territory. However, if you’re concerned about your safety, contact the police.
You could also contact your local council to find out if the practice contravenes any local laws. Some councils require planning permission for security cameras.
If your property is part of a strata title, check the by-laws to see if they cover installing or using security cameras.
The CCTV Security System in Schools
Subsequent to the series of security incidents that have occurred in schools, renewed interest in the CCTV security camera system has exploded to new heights. Schools do not offer much in the way of valuables that may entice burglars to pick on schools as prime targets and hence this is not an area that poses concern. Concern lies in the increasing rise of indecent assaults that are committed against students themselves as well as violence towards teachers in nearly all the schools across the nation. They have become areas that need to be addressed.
Demand for CCTV cameras
With the rise in assaults and violence in schools against students and teachers alike, the demand for CCTV security cameras has correspondingly soared. They are now deemed to become a permanent part of the school landscapes focusing mainly on playgrounds and campuses throughout Australia. More important has been the significant improvement in the level of violence and bullying problems that have plagued 25 high risk schools in the country. At Serious Security we are profoundly impressed by this trend and has given us all the more reason to forge ahead on security issues.
A proven panacea for school violence
A school can become a very harsh environment for some students and teachers. After all they are all too human and any impingement on their liberties and securities is likely to impact on the academic performance of students and the teaching capabilities of teachers. The success in the use of CCTV security cameras in Australian schools points to a way forward in addressing issues that are specific only to school environments and it also sends a signal to other countries that security problems confronting Australian schools can be successfully addressed by the application of CCTV cameras.
Precautionary security actions to take
- Identify potential trouble spots – these will include perimeters to buildings, car parks used by staff and areas where students usually congregate such as corridors, playgrounds, canteen areas, private study rooms and playing fields.
- Apply suitable solutions – some of the solutions will include placing CCTV video cameras for tackling violent and unsocial behaviour. Another possibility would be to involve virtual guard patrols on school grounds
- Correct placing of CCTV cameras – this will ensure the proper and effective functioning of the cameras in deterring violence and will also provide useful information for investigating the root causes of security incidents,
Contact us
Our expertise includes the professional installation of CCTV systems wherever they are needed. Ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote and we will ensure that your school is secure and safe.
The Community and Security Video Surveillance
Theft, vandalism, violent crimes and drug abuse are now all part and parcel of communal living especially in large cities like Sydney and at Serious Security we are constantly assailed with information about their occurrence and the damage they cause. These unattractive lifestyles impinge on the orderly functioning of communal interaction and cultural zones within the city meaning that as long as they occur society stands to lose out. It stands to reason then that in order for civil order to take shape, these traits must be controlled.
The magic of the CCTV camera system
Local governments are now waking up to the reality that bad things that happen to their citizens in their houses are also happening to people directly under council jurisdiction and protection. They have found that an increasing number of Australians, in particular, those living in Sydney are feeling safer from the installation of the CCTV camera security system. What is more poignant is the fact that more than half feel the CCTV security system offer an effective anti-crime deterrent. No doubt councils will put systems in place that will provide communal security at reasonable costs.
High definition cameras offer the best value
There are many types of CCTV solutions each with their own price tags and effectiveness. The high definition cameras are just about the best options available on the market and they possess certain features that definitely enhance security. They can optically zoom, tilt downwards and rotate a full 360 degrees thereby providing perfect coverage of activities that go on below it. Other features include the ability of being integrated into police alarm systems, Back to Base reporting systems and can be operated by remote control. We can assist in every single one of these configurations.
Place them in the right locations
Another key factor in installing the CCTV camera is to place them where they will prove most effective. By doing so, the cameras will play their security role to the full by being able to take clear video images of perpetrators and providing invaluable information to police that may wish to conduct an investigation into an alleged breach of security and the theft of valuable property. They should be placed where they can even reveal ‘blind-spots’ or see beyond obstructions so that the whole area in question is covered to the detriment of unwanted visitors.
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Our expertise lies in the field of selecting and installing CCTV security systems. If you desire to have one installed, ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote and see how fast and efficiently we install your security system.
Auto Tracking PTZ Can get the Job Done
If you want to conserve your financial resources this Christmas for buying other goods, one bad method of doing so is by investing in an auto-tracking PTZ camera. Before you jump headlong into buying one, we at Serious Security would caution you to seriously look into three aspects of the intended buy. Learn about the qualities and capabilities of the camera, your needs that the camera can address and last but not least, its price. These are all important to factor into your intention but here are a few hints to help you make a good decision.
It locks in onto the biggest and fastest
Hypothetically speaking, when you install an auto-tracking PTZ camera overlooking an area where lots of people and vehicles are constantly in motion, the camera will zoom in and lock onto the largest and fastest vehicle. This effectively means that only a small section of the whole scene including motion will be taken by the camera. The rest are left out of the camera’s vision. Moreover, the camera can turn sideways left and right and downwards but not up, meaning that anything above the horizon is also left out.
BUY HIKVISION PTZs AT WHOLESALE PRICES
It can turn a full 360 degrees
Another commendable feature of the camera is its ability in turning around a full 360 degrees when being used. This means that in the case of our installed camera the picture of the largest and fastest moving form will be the only featured during the entire 360 degrees if it’s mounted on a pole that overlooks the area and the object in motion moves right around the pole. The snag is that if say a helicopter arrived and hovered over the area, the camera won’t be able to change its line of vision upwards to take a shot at it.
What then is the ideal filming scenario?
It follows logically from the above that since the camera can only take pictures of large and fast moving objects, it would be best be used in a situation where there is limited traffic around and movement is at a minimum. The camera will function as it is supposed to under these conditions and not otherwise and it wouldn’t be a bad idea if you could drop a line or two to the manufactures to point out these flaws. Alternatively, the only other practical solution to this technical glitch would be to hire the services of security guards that would be better able to police the whole area effectively.
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If you require more information before you make a buy we can provide them keeping in mind that we have many other types of security cameras that can address the needs mentioned. Ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for our free quote and we will see what we can do for you.
Protecting Pubs – Choosing the right mix of security
Pubs have such a great attraction for the ‘macho’ element in society to congregate within its walls its not difficult to guess that tempers will explode and fists start flying. It has also been solidly proven that in New South Wales alone, an estimated 85% of all armed robberies took place in pubs. It is the responsibility of pub owners to ensure the safety of its staff, patrons and property. One way of addressing the problem is by introducing a mixture of security strategies that includes CCTV cameras, virtual guards, monitored alarm and bottle tags that can be installed in the premise.
The most important security deterrent
The CCTV surveillance camera falls under this category and since it has come from people who have actually seen the changed results brought about by the system, there is no reason not to believe it. The cameras are simply marvellous and the footage they provide facilitates any follow up investigation needed. They are not overly costly and they provide excellent, clear video images of anyone captured by the camera lens including of course our dire enemies – the burglars. The rising popularity of the CCTV security cameras has resulted from the success it has enjoyed with users.
A very cheap system to operate
When the CCTV security system is integrated with virtual guard patrols, it becomes a less costly security system for the pubs. What actually transpires in this dual application is that guards are able to view real live video images captured and relayed by the cameras at their remote monitoring base. They accordingly mount patrols to respond to the level of urgency conveyed by the viewed footage and in doing so, they work in real time to monitor and conduct patrols to quell or pre-empt any anit-social event that develops in the pub.
The complementary monitored alarm system
One of the most amazing features of a monitored alarm system is it works perfectly in consort with a CCTV security system. This can be achieved with an established connection to a Back to Base monitoring alarm station. This functions in a similar fashion to the virtual monitoring centre that views security situations in the pubs that are connected to it. Similarly, the CCTV system alerts the guards at the Back to Base station who can respond very quickly to any incident.
Contact us
Installing a CCTV security system in your pub will enhance its security and the people working in it as well as the patrons. Ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote and we will install just the right system for you in no time.
Camera Invasion of the Market
I don’t know whether you’ve noticed the sheer volume of cameras that have flopped on the market lately, but that’s exactly what has happened. The latest CCTV surveillance cameras are so affordable, flexible and outstandingly effective, there’s no other way of describing the upsurge. They have literally invaded and swamped the market to such an extent it has been estimated that on average, a person is likely to have a picture taken of him or her about 15 times daily. And that’s no exaggeration given the array of gadgetry available and the love people have of getting their photos taken.
Not 100% but totally effective
The CCTV surveillance camera is one very reliable security camera system that has taken huge strides against the unwanted crime of burglary. The mere fact that these security cameras are able to monitor an area and take clear video shots of perpetrators, is in itself, a strong deterrent to the very act of committing burglaries. It will become a very daunting prospect for thieves once they realize that their clear video images can be used as evidence against them in any court of law. They are so versatile they can practically monitor any situation and provide security for people, employees and visitors.
Gone are the tapes
It is somewhat of a relief that you no longer have to spend countless hours playing a tape (without viewing the speaker), when ascertaining what had taken place. Because the CCTV security camera can be programmed to suit any situation, it is easy to select a certain footage simply by using the mouse to point at a certain date and time and the whole scene will be enacted on screen. The security cameras also feature high resolution video capable of capturing the minutest detail including the swift hand action of a pickpocket.
The future of the CCTV security camera
There is no doubting the capabilities of the CCTV security camera in helping entrepreneurs to safely operate their enterprises. To help boost their ongoing reliability and popularity there is now the integrated visual surveillance management technology that utilizes newly configured CCTV cameras that will have immense benefit to users. With it, businesses are able to obtain algorithm data from their cameras and use it to monitor customer behaviour and that will improve marketing decisions. The cameras can also be used to monitor employee movements for improving productivity and efficiency.
Contact us
We can help you install the ideal CCTV surveillance system for your house. Simply ring us now on (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote and we will start work immediately.
How CCTV Systems Can Deter Stalkers
Many men and women and even teenage girls will attest to the prevalence of stalkers and there stealthy activities especially at night. These frightening experiences occur often around the metro and suburbia of Sydney. As providers of top quality security systems in both areas, Serious Security has noted these alarming occurrences and strives to address them with its CCTV camera systems so that residents are fully protected in their homes, offices and business premises.
Popular haunts for stalkers
Lights and the presence of many people are a curse to stalkers so they frequent areas that are dimly lit and not frequented by a lot of people like interior parking lots. If you have to negotiate isolated areas, the first obvious step is to avoid these desolate and dark places. If you are unable to do so, the next best alternative is to always carry your mobile phone that is connected to an alarm system at home. Serious Security can help you do this and make your journey from the workplace to your house or flats safe and harassment free.
Reaching your peaceful haven – home
If you have experienced the unsettling moments of being followed by a stalker, you would have also felt the dissipation of fear, anxiety and the flow of relief and feeling of safety when you reach your home. Unfortunately, the determination of some stalkers does not end at the gate. Some do forge ahead and have known to break in and enter houses, steal valuables and disappear without trace. Be proactive and install a CCTV camera system, the iconic and very hard to beat modern day security system. Of course you don’t know how to, so let us do it for you and give you peace of mind.
We have the professionals to do the job
The installation of an effective CCTV surveillance system is not an easy task to do. It requires the assistance of professionals that are fully trained in the art of selecting and installing the ideal security system for you needs. They will visit and appraise your premises and can immediately come up with just the right type of configured system that will effectively protect you home from any inquisitive stalker. They are fully trained and qualified to know how many cameras your particular situation needs; they know where the cameras will be deployed; they can tell you what other systems can be connected for greater efficiency and deployment. They know it all!
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You’d be doing yourself a favour, if you let us assist you select and install the exact CCTV security system that you need. Call us now (02) 8734 3250 for a free quote and we will immediately go into action.
USES of a CCTV Camera
The main purpose of a CCTV camera is to serve as a security measure used for preventing crime. However, there are different ways how it can achieve this. A CCTVcamera can also perform different functions and roles. In this article, we will look into a few of those different uses of a CCTV camera. You might be surprised as you will realize how much you can do with it.
Detecting Fires
A fire alarm, of course, is your main defense against fires. However, a CCTV camera can be effective as well. It can actually, in some cases, detect it earlier.
Keeping Your Staff Safe
A CCTV camera can protect your staff in several ways. For one, it can physically protect them against violence from customers. It can also protect them against false accusations coming from colleagues, or even from customers or clients. For instance, if a customers claims that a staff member has sold them something faulty or defective, you will be able to find out if it actually happened.
Identifying Theft
Thieves are not always strangers or outsiders. Unfortunately, most stealing incidents are done by staff members. By using a CCTV, you can prevent this from happening.
Spotting Vandalism
A CCTV surveillance camera allows you to monitor your property when you are not around. It can spot vandals scribbling on your walls or breaking your glass windows.
Noticing Accidents
It is useful to have a CCTV in case a staff member or a customer falls over. This would help you send someone over quickly to take care of any injury, and at the same time prevent a scandal in the workplace.
Deterring Crime
CCTV enables you to capture criminals. It can even prevent crime before it happens by acting as a threat to catch criminal offendersshould they commit any illicit activity.
