We provide security camera sales, design, installation, move, add, change, and troubleshooting services in Austin and surrounding areas.  We do not care whether you purchased the camera from us, purchased it online, or acquired the system/camera elsewhere.  We are on a mission:  To help keep Austin safe, one camera at a time. We service homes and businesses of all sizes. Call us now! 512.257.1433

Security Camera System Sales & Design Services In Austin

Business Communication Solutions offers sales and design services of security camera for home and business. Our consultation and estimate services are free. You can call us now for free estimates.

Selecting the best camera system might be difficult due to the multitude of options available. Let us help you make the process easier.

The world of security camera systems has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past two decades. Cameras have become more affordable, and the range of options can be staggering. We stay at the forefront of these advancements to provide you with the best solutions.

 

Affordable Security Camera Systems Installation Austin

Security Camera has become more affordable in the last decades. However, the installation and labor cost can still be expensive. We have far seen too many customers went wifi then later have regrets due to common problems associated with wifi:

• Battery not sufficient, so the camera stopped working.
• They are tired of changing the batteries.
• Wifi signal can be intermittent causing cameras to drop connection.
• Video quality are poor due to connection drop.

Are you in the same situation? We aim to make security cameras more affordable for homes and small businesses by offering affordable installation prices. Please call us now if you have a free consultation/estimate. 512.257.1433

 

Security Camera System Troubleshooting and Repair Services in Austin

• Do you have an existing security camera system that doesn’t work?
• Do you have a camera that doesn’t record?
• Do you have a system or a camera that doesn’t power on?
• Is your mobile app not working?
• Do you have some camera that’s fuzzy or blurry?
• Do you have some camera that struggle to work at night?
• Do you get too many alerts or false alarm?
• Do you need help fine-tuning your security camera system?
• Do you have a cable that is torn or broken due to the element?
• Do you have a broken connectors?

 

Security Camera System Move, Add, Change, Adjustment, and Cleaning Services in Austin

• Do you have a security camera that you would like to move?
• Do you have a security camera that blurry because it’s dirty?
• Do you have an existing system that you just wanted to add more cameras?
• Do you have a camera that you would like to swap out because you needed a 2.8mm camera instead of a 4.0mm camera?
• Do you just wanted to add a security flood light to certain area of your home or business?
• Do you need a tech to climb the ladder and help you adjust all your cameras?
• Do you currently have issues with a Wi-Fi security camera? Tired of changing batteries? Need help with delay or sporadic video? We offer security camera cable/wiring services in Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Hutto, Liberty Hill, Anderson Mill, Lakeway, and most surrounding cities.

We offer security camera move, add, change, cleaning, and adjustment services at an affordable rate. Please feel free to call us now to schedule an appointment. 512.257.1433

 

How do you pick the best security camera system for your residence or place of business?

Consider the following: “What and where do you want to secure your assets and property—indoors or outdoors? —as well as the power supply, video storage, IP or analog camera type, resolution, frame rate model, indoor and outdoor illumination, and audio system.

What are the different types of IP rated enclosures for security cameras?

– IP65: IP rated as dust tight and protected against water projected from a light pressure of water such as nozzle.

– IP66: Resists high-pressure, multidirectional water jets and can resist water jets fired from a 0.50-inch nozzle.

– IP67: Prevents submersion in water in the range of 5.9 to 39.37 inches and prohibits the entry of hazardous water.

– IP68: Offers protection against dust and continuous submersion in water, withstanding submersion for up to 30 minutes and at least one meter.

Is a security camera with night vision required?

One kind of camera that can take pictures in low light is called a night vision camera. It’s possible that the picture combines infrared and visible light. The benefits of night vision camera give you the ability to record activities on or around your property at night, enhances the safety of your residence, deter intruders by the visibility of camera lights, and it is reasonably priced.

Is there a huge difference between 1080p or 4K camera system?

Compared to 1080p, 4K captures a great deal more information and detail. The storage capacities of the videos readily reveals this information. Storage needs for six 4K cameras will be significantly more than those for six 1080p cameras. Plus, there’s more visible area in the frame with that level of detail. With 4K resolution, you can zoom in even farther without the image becoming unreadable. In order to record letters or other minute details, 4K is the best option. A 4K camera will cost more per unit than a 1080p one. Higher-powered hardware is to blame for the price disparity. 1080p will do if you’re on a tight budget, but if you have the extra cash, think about getting 4K cameras.

 

What storage-related differences exist between SD cards, NVRs, DVRs, and Cloud-base?

Cloud-based systems use an internet connection to record and save video in cloud storage. In addition to offering an additional degree of protection by enabling off-site backup of your private and crucial information, IP camera cloud storage also lets you access them from any location at any time.

Surveillance lens motion detection videos are saved locally to a Micro SD card by SD card recorders. Thus, local or onsite storage is another term for this kind of video capture. Though some security cameras may come with a built-in micro-SD card, in other situations, you’re expected to make a separate purchase on your own (for cameras with SD card slot).

NVR security systems uses modern technologies, such PoE connections or wi-fi internet, are used by NVR security systems to simplify and expand the capabilities of video monitoring. IP cameras are connected to NVR security systems, which then use the cameras’ combined video collection and processing capabilities to relay the encoded (digitized) footage to the NVR over the internet.

Coaxial cables, which are commonly used with analog security cameras (sometimes referred to as CCTV cameras), are used by DVR systems. The  recorder receives analog signals from analog cameras and processes the  video data.

Is angle of views important?

With a range typically between 60 and 110 degrees (or more), a wide-angle FOV sacrifices some coverage for better detail. It’s ideal for security cameras in that sense. At most, you’ll only be able to catch a third of the scene, but when objects and people go closer to the camera, you’ll get considerably more clarity and detail. When it comes to security, a conventional angle might work pretty well in a small space or if you’re simply looking to record a certain area of the action.

Does lens size matter?

The field of vision and zoom level of a security camera are determined by the size of its lens. By far the most common lens choices are 2.8mm and 4mm. These provide the broadest field of vision. A wider-angle shot is produced by a shorter focal length (2.8mm), while a narrower angle photo is produced by a longer focal length (4.0mm). About a 90-degree viewing angle is provided by 2.8mm. An average viewing angle of 4mm is around 75 degrees.

On-Premises vs Cloud-Based video surveillance system?

On-premises video surveillance systems offer the most control over security and privacy of your data because they are installed and maintained on-site. An on-premises system stores and processes video feeds from cameras on hardware that is housed within the user’s building or property, as opposed to processing and saving them in the cloud. This allows the user to see, control, and monitor the cameras on a network-connected device. They function without an internet connection to analyze and store data.

Most on-premises video surveillance is ideal for governmental organizations, medical facilities and hospitals, banks, big businesses, manufacturing facilities, large school districts & higher education. The main disadvantages of for on-premises will be the high initial hardware and maintenance costs, requires constant upkeep and improvements and the need to buy more server space.

Video security known as “cloud-based video surveillance” consists of internet-connected security cameras that store recorded video remotely in the cloud rather than locally on a server or other device. With an internet connection, the user can now see and manage video content from any location without servers or additional infrastructure. One of the major advantages of cloud-based video surveillance is they are very easy to use, install and no required physical space for hardware’s.

Small school districts, office spaces, multi-family housing complexes, day care, small business and many more places are ideal for cloud-based video surveillance. A major drawback would be reliant on an internet connection, maybe requiring more money for cloud storage and bandwidth and because there is less oversight, security and privacy may be more vulnerable.

ONVIF vs Proprietary

ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is an international, open industry forum dedicated to promoting the creation and application of an international, open standard for the physical IP-based security products’ interface. The ONVIF standard facilitates the cooperation of multiple IP-based physical security devices from different manufacturers by providing them with a common communication method, which facilitates the simpler integration of products from different suppliers. Customers now benefit from enhanced system flexibility and customization, a wider selection of compatible products, and affordability and futureproofing.

The cons with ONVIF system will be that Certain functionalities related to advanced video analytics are not supported. No policy restrictions for devices that claim to be compatible. There are situations when the device and protocol cannot communicate.

ONVIF brands we carry but not limited to are GNS, Hikvision, LTS, and many more.

The practice of private security surveillance is not new. An electronic security system that is used, produced, or sold with the manufacturer’s exclusive legal authority is known as proprietary equipment. Exclusive coordination between proprietary systems and the manufacturer of the hardware, software, and system itself results in excellent compatibility and match.

One drawback of proprietary systems is their limited base of service and their manufacturer-dependent upgradeability. An open platform system can be considerably less expensive to repair than a proprietary system, which is usually limited to being fixed by the business who installed it (using their replacement parts).

Proprietary brands we carry but not limited to are Lorex, Swann, Reolink, and many others.

Bullet vs. Turret vs. Dome vs. Fisheye vs. Floodlight vs. PTZ

Bullet Camera– Reason for the name “bullet camera” is their unique cylindrical form, which resembles a bullet shell. The installation and range of bullet cameras is their primary advantages. Because of its extended viewing range, bullet cameras are perfect for monitoring expansive spaces like parking lots and backyards. Additionally, bullet cameras are simpler to install and allow for the mounting of larger lenses on their body because of their design. A slight lip at the tip of the bullet camera helps shield it from weather and glare, making it perfect for outdoor use. Also, a bullet camera’s powerful infrared LED allows it to capture incredibly accurate photos in a range of light settings during the day. A bullet camera is typically quite huge and noticeable, but a miniature bullet camera provides an alternative. Mini bullet cameras can be any size, small enough to be hidden inside your home or huge enough to serve as a noticeable deterrent for outside security.

Turret Camera– Comparable to dome cameras, but without a cover. Since they are viewed as a middle ground between the dome and the bullet, they are likely one of the most widely used camera options. It has a full range of motion, though you might not be able to tell because it’s essentially a ball in a socket. The majority of turret cameras are equipped with infrared night vision, which enables the camera to record images in total darkness. Turret cameras don’t have a dome shell, so they are shielded from glare effects unlike dome cameras with glass housing. Furthermore, compared to other cameras, its distinctive construction facilitates adjustment. Turret dome cameras are frequently utilized in government installations, commercial buildings, and residential video surveillance systems.

Dome Camera– The circular, dome-shaped housing of dome security cameras makes them clearly identifiable, and it allows for a great deal of versatility in focusing distance adjustment for precise positioning. Because of their exceptional coverage for almost every use scenario, dome security cameras are incredibly adaptable and may be utilized in both indoor and outdoor environments. Due to their vandal-proof dome housing, infrared (IR) LED light technology for night vision, and strong metal bases that guard against tampering or vandalism, dome security cameras are the perfect choice for dependable surveillance in challenging environments.

Fisheye Camera– Fisheye lenses are renowned for having an incredibly wide field of view. The broad panoramic or hemispherical image produced by a fisheye lens is named for its similarity to the distorted, round, and incredibly wide image that appears when looking through a door’s peephole. The majority of fisheye cameras provide a 360° panoramic view, allowing them to cover a very large area without any blind parts. Fisheye cameras include exceptional characteristics including night vision, HD quality, 3D noise reduction, etc. in addition to its ultra-wide-angle lens. Factory sites, hospitals, parking lots, airports, hotels, and other establishments frequently utilize fisheye cameras because of their exceptionally wide angle, vandal resistance, and discreet appearance.

Floodlight Camera– Floodlight cameras are an excellent choice for driveways, yards, and the perimeter of your property at night because they combine the functions of a security camera and a floodlight into a single exterior fixture. Having a camera and floodlight in one unit is a great option if you’re a homeowner. Smart lighting truly does make criminals think twice, and security cameras are an excellent deterrent to crime. One of the best ways to discourage burglars is to have outdoor lights at night. Don’t take the chance of being vulnerable because of this. Floodlights are a fantastic alternative, but they do have some disadvantages. First, they may occasionally need to be hardwired, which can be expensive. Secondly, the device itself may be more expensive than other conventional security cameras.

What is Power Over Ethernet? How does it help the security camera industry? Can we exceed the 328′ cable run?

POE Switch: Ethernet cables (cat5e, cat6, and cat6a) are the most widely used cables for security cameras. These wires use an internet connection to send video data. They can also provide power to specific kinds of cameras, referred to as “power over ethernet,” or PoE IP cameras. The maximum length on certain cameras and devices for Ethernet cable is 328 feet, or 100 meters: after that, the signal deteriorates and the connection’s speed and dependability decrease. We carry a PoE Switch by LTS LTPOE-SW1603C that is a helpful tool for cable runs extending 328′ and up to 800′ providing consistent connection. If you need a camera install that extends over 328′ give us a call at 512.257.1433 for a free survey to design a security surveillance to your specific needs.

A POE Switch is a type of network switch that can supply devices such as wireless access points and IP cameras with power over Ethernet. This approach eliminates the need for separate power sources for every device by enabling the transfer of both data and power over the same Ethernet wire. Significant saving on cost is possible with POE switches. POE switches eliminate the need for individual power supplies and wiring for every device, which will save on installation expenses and energy cost. POE switches reduce cable clutter considerably by using a single connection for both data and power. This can help your network configuration become more simplified and well-organized, which allows for easier management and troubleshooting.

Do you need PoE Security flood light installation services in Austin?
No camera visibility at night due to limited lighting?

Do you have a security camera system without infrared night vision or illumination capabilities? Is a specific area outside your home in a fully darkened place? Is outdoor illumination vital to you? Would you like more lighting so you can see your camera view at night? Are you looking for a motion-activated lighting that can be turned off when not in use to save electricity and discourage criminals? For lighting-related issues, we have the ideal fix. Adding a floodlight will make a world of difference! With the Reolink Floodlight, you will have a bright motion-activated security floodlight for a smart home, a built-in siren, and a PoE or Wi-Fi connection options for more lighting you can.

Need the perfect gift for a friend or family?
We got you covered!

Click here for more details on our Special Security Camera Gift Packages

List of Security Camera Features Mainly but Not Limited To:

• Night Vision: Although infrared light is invisible to humans, cameras are able to identify and use wavelengths to “see” in the dark. They can function in various lighting and weather conditions. Some cameras also come with color night vision equipped with special infrared technology to enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Night vision cameras are known to improve surveillance and enhance detection all while saving cost.

• Resolution: The higher-resolution video and images enable you to capture footage in greater detail and allow you to zoom into areas of interest, in a clearer format, after a recording has been made. A higher resolution provides greater detail and clarity, while a higher frame rate enables more accurate monitoring of object movements. However, high-resolution security cameras can overwhelm the average Wi-Fi router, making it necessary for most users to adjust the quality settings to find an optimal balance. Home security cameras are available in various resolutions to suit your requirements and budget. The most prevalent resolutions on the market are 2MP (1080p), 4MP (1440p), 5MP (1920p), and 8MP (4K/2160p).

• Weather Resistance: A weatherproof security camera is a type of surveillance camera that is typically equipped with a housing or cover designed to protect it from the elements. It reduces typical wear and tear on the camera’s components and preventing the cameras inside components from being harmed by dust, snow, or rain. These weatherproof covers, constructed from stainless steel or other robust materials, guarantee proper protection for your device. It ensures your device functions correctly throughout the hot summers and the cold winters. Weatherproof security cameras are the best option for areas with variable climates and frequent adverse weather conditions.

• Remote Monitoring: Not everyone can afford to employ a dedicated team for continuous property monitoring, especially in the residential or small business sectors. Thankfully, continuous monitoring no longer necessitates a dedicated team. With remote monitoring you have ability to view, manage, and operate video cameras from afar. Remote monitoring utilizes an internet connection to transmit the footage captured by your security cameras to an external device, such as a phone, watch, or computer. A loudspeaker can be employed to address intruders, often deterring them effectively. The smart video analysis provided by these systems negates the necessity for a physical guard, thereby reducing costs as well. With features like direct footage export from the app, sharing videos is effortless, whether they’re engaging clips for friends or crucial evidence of a break-in for law enforcement.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): automatically detects threats, filters out false alarms, and alerts operators to genuine dangers, enabling them to respond appropriately. AI-powered threat detection systems are effective both day and night, can identify objects from great distances, process vast quantities of video feeds in mere seconds, and apply sophisticated analytics instantly. They also assist in identifying unconventional issues with facial recognition software. AI security cameras are engineered to protect your business premises by mitigating losses due to shoplifting, intrusion, robbery, and other high-impact incidents. They not only contribute to the safety of your people, facilities, and information but also result in significant savings of time, resources, and money.

• Motion Detection: A primary advantage is the protection against burglaries. The quicker a thief is detected; the faster police can be dispatched to your location. Surveillance cameras equipped with motion detection can instantly recognize any movement and alert you through a smartphone app or send you an email if there’s any activity in your home. The motion sensor’s masking feature enables you to adjust sensitivity levels effortlessly, helping to prevent bothersome false alarms. By creating masks, you can decrease the number of notifications and video events on your timeline by excluding areas prone to triggering these false alarms.

• Cloud Storage: Cloud-based systems provide the ability to access both live and recorded video footage from any location with internet connectivity. This versatility is crucial for businesses operating across multiple sites or requiring remote surveillance. Cloud storage offers secure off-site backup of video data, safeguarding against physical harm, theft, or disasters that could impact on-premises equipment. Additionally, cloud-based systems are designed for easy integration with other cloud solutions and third-party apps, improving their functionality and ensuring seamless compatibility with current infrastructures.

• Field of View (FOV): The field of view (FOV) is crucial as it defines the extent of the area or angle that a camera can capture and monitor. The FOV of security cameras can differ significantly between models. Some cameras are equipped with fixed lenses, offering a consistent FOV, whereas varifocal cameras have the ability to zoom in or out, adjusting the FOV to meet specific user requirements. Greater field of vision and more object capture are achieved with smaller or wide-angle lenses. Certain security cameras come equipped with wide-angle lenses, offering an expansive field of view (FOV) that is well-suited for overseeing large spaces such as parking lots or open areas. Conversely, there are cameras with narrower lenses, perfect for detailed monitoring of specific targets or locations. The field of vision is reduced with larger or narrower angle lenses, allowing for the capture of a smaller region.

• Controllable Cameras: Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ)- Give user more situational awareness and the capacity to react swiftly to possible security risks by enabling them to remotely operate and modify the camera’s position, angle, and zoom level. PTZ cameras move anywhere between zero pan/tilt and the full 360-degree pan/180-degree tilt. This gives control over the required field of view (FOV). PTZ cameras can be paired with stationary cameras to augment monitoring capability. With PTZ cameras tracking suspicious activity has never been easier with PTZ cameras. Remote camera control allows users to change the camera’s field of view without having to go onsite.

Cloud-Based System

Reolink Dual Lens Wide Angle Camera

Reolink Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) Camera

• Wireless Camera: The convenience of placing them anywhere in the home without the hassle of wires has made wireless cameras extremely popular. The installation process is straightforward, allowing you to position the camera in any desired direction. The ability to easily adjust the camera and mount it in elevated spots without concern for power outlets can be a significant convenience. No wired installation, Wi-Fi network connection, cost efficient, flexible, easy & faster setup.
• Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Wide Dynamic Range technology enhances the image quality of cameras in high-contrast lighting situations, where both dim and bright areas exist within the field of view. A camera with robust WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) performance can capture details clearly by correctly exposing both the darkest and brightest areas of a scene. Therefore, cameras equipped with WDR technology are especially suitable for environments like building entrances, ATMs, transportation hubs, and areas adjacent to windows or similar light-intensive spots.

• Active Deterrence: Uses several features, like a built-in microphone, a siren alert, a flashing red and blue light, an LED or white light that flashes, to actively warn or scare away intruders.
• Smart Home Technology: Connecting using a mobile application, you may remotely monitor and control everything by voice commands pushing a key fob, or entering your password into a keypad.

We offer security camera move, add, change, cleaning, and adjustment services at an affordable rate. Please feel free to call us now to schedule an appointment. 512.257.1433

Types of Cameras and Their Power Consumption – These are just rules of thumb, there are always exceptions.

1. Dome Cameras

• Description: Dome cameras are named for their dome-shaped housing and are widely used for indoor and outdoor surveillance. They are often vandal-resistant and provide a discreet surveillance option.
• Typical Power Consumption: 3-8 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, commonly supported.

2. Bullet Cameras

• Description: Bullet cameras have a cylindrical shape and are typically used for long-distance viewing. They are often installed in outdoor environments due to their robust housings.
• Typical Power Consumption: 4-12 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, commonly supported.

3. PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Cameras

• Description: PTZ cameras can pan, tilt, and zoom to cover larger areas and provide detailed views. They are ideal for monitoring large spaces such as parking lots and stadiums.
• Typical Power Consumption: 10-30 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, but often require PoE+ due to higher power needs.

4. Turret Cameras

• Description: Turret cameras, also known as eyeball cameras, are similar to dome cameras but with a ball-and-socket design that allows for easy positioning. They are versatile for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Typical Power Consumption: 3-8 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, commonly supported.

5. Fisheye Cameras

• Description: Fisheye cameras provide a 360-degree panoramic view, making them suitable for monitoring large areas with a single camera. They are often used in retail and commercial spaces.
• Typical Power Consumption: 4-10 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, commonly supported.

6. Box Cameras

• Description: Box cameras are versatile and can be used with different lenses to suit various surveillance needs. They are often used in environments requiring detailed and high-resolution images.
• Typical Power Consumption: 5-15 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, commonly supported.

7. Thermal Cameras

• Description: Thermal cameras detect heat and are used in environments where standard cameras might be ineffective, such as in complete darkness or through smoke. They are used in industrial and security applications.
• Typical Power Consumption: 6-20 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, but may require PoE+ due to higher power needs.

8. Wireless Cameras

• Description: Wireless cameras use Wi-Fi for data transmission and are ideal for areas where cabling is difficult. They require power through an adapter or battery.
• Typical Power Consumption: 3-10 watts (if using an adapter)
• PoE Support: No, requires separate power source.

9. 4K Cameras

• Description: 4K cameras provide ultra-high-definition video, offering greater detail and clarity. They are used in environments where high-resolution footage is critical.
• Typical Power Consumption: 8-15 watts
• PoE Support: Yes, often require PoE+ due to higher power needs.

Power Consumption Summary

• Standard PoE (IEEE 802.3af): Provides up to 15.4 watts per port.
• PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at): Provides up to 30 watts per port, suitable for more power-intensive cameras like PTZ and 4K cameras.

At Business Communication Solutions, we provide expert advice on selecting the right cameras for your needs and ensure they are powered efficiently using the latest PoE technology. This guarantees optimal performance, reliability, and energy efficiency for your surveillance systems.

According to Austin, TX Crime Report, 2023 – HomeSnacks and FBI Crime Statistics:

• There were 39,865 total crimes committed in Austin the last reporting year.
• On a rate basis, there were 4,130.1 total crimes per 100K people in Austin
• The overall crime rate in Austin is 77.70% above the national average.
• Austin ranks #641 safest out of 683 cities in Texas.
• Austin ranks #9,037 safest out of 9,869 cities in the United States.
• There were 5,215 violent crimes in Austin in the last reporting year.
• The violent crime rate in Austin is 540.3 per 100,000 people.
• You have a 1 in 185.1 chance of being the victim of a violent crime in Austin each year. That compares to a 1 in 224.0 chance statewide.
• That’s 46.10% higher than the national rate of 369.8 per 100,000 people.
• 21.02% higher than the Texas violent crime rate of 446.5 per 100,000 people.
• There were 34,650 property crimes in Austin in the last reporting year.
• The property crime rate in Austin is 3,589.8 per 100,000 people.
• You have a 1 in 27.9 chance of being the victim of a property crime in Austin each year. That compares to a 1 in 0.0 chance nationally.
• That’s 83.68% higher than the national rate of 1,954.4 per 100,000 people.
• And 59.90% higher than the Texas property crime rate of 2,245.0 per 100,000 people

Brands that we sell and install includes but not limited to Swann, Reolink, Lorex, Alibi, LTS, GNS, Unifi and many more. Click on brands below for our promotional deals we have right now or call 512.257.1433

With so many options for security camera systems? How do you choose?
Give us a call, let us help you
512.257.1433

Have your security camera system? Do you only need help with installation and setup? No Problem. We offer security camera installation in Austin, even if you didn’t buy from us.

We offer camera installation services for your home or business, even if you want to use your own device.

Our security camera products in Austin

We think this is a very good video on NDAA cameras, security in general, a bit of politics, reality, and economics.