External Cameras for Enhanced Property Security: A Guide to Your Options
When it comes to securing any property, having the right gate security camera system in place is essential. When complex camera, surveillance, and video setups are not necessary for a property, the use of simpler external cameras integrated with an access control or visitor management solution (like CellGate’s Entría and/or Watchman lines) can provide the right layer of extra security. Such external cameras utilized with these solutions allow you to monitor key entry points, capture video footage of visitors, and increase the safety of your property.
External cameras combined with access control or visitor management systems serve as valuable tools for property security. They not only provide real-time monitoring but also can store video footage for review in case of suspicious activity. Some of the key benefits of such external cameras include:
- Visitor Identification: Record and/or review still photos of anyone entering or leaving your property and/or at key internal entry points.
- License Plate Recognition: Capture vehicle and license plate details at vehicle gates.
- Customizable Security: Choose the right camera to suit your property’s layout and security needs based on distance and level of detail required at each location.
Choosing the right external cameras can also greatly enhance the effectiveness of your access control and visitor management systems, giving you added peace of mind. When property users and visitors know a camera(s) is in place, it reduces the likelihood of nefarious activity.
Understanding the Different Camera Options
CellGate has several external camera models to choose from that can be integrated with its visitor management and access control systems, each offering different feature types to match various security needs. Let’s explore the options in detail:
1. CAM-293 Mini Bullet 4mm Fixed Focus Camera
Best for: Basic, general coverage views at access points.
- Field of View: 93° (diagonal), 46° (vertical), 81° (horizontal)
- Motion Actuated Video with 6-second Pre-Record: Capture crucial moments before motion is detected.
- IR Illuminator Range: Up to 164 feet, allowing clear footage in low-light conditions.
- Storage: Includes a 128GB SD card for video storage. Recorded video is accessible via CellGate technical support.
This compact, fixed-focus camera offers a wide-angle view that’s ideal for general surveillance of access points. It’s a simple yet effective solution for monitoring areas without the need for fine-tuned adjustments.
2. CAM-296 Mini Bullet 2.8mm-12mm Varifocal Camera
Best for: Adjustable coverage at access points.
- Field of View: 99° – 38° (diagonal), 48° – 19° (vertical), 81° – 33° (horizontal)
- IR Illuminator Range: Up to 164 feet, providing night vision capabilities.
- Zoom Function: The varifocal lens offers adjustable coverage, making it versatile for different areas of your property.
- Storage: 128GB SD card/video access via technical support.
The CAM-296 is a versatile camera that allows you to adjust the lens to change the field of view. This is especially useful for situations where the required coverage may change over time or for areas with varying monitoring needs.
3. CAM-299 Pro Bullet 5-64mm Varifocal Camera
Best for: Customizable and long-range views.
- Field of View: 69° – 5° (diagonal), 36° – 2° (vertical), 61° – 5° (horizontal)
- IR Illuminator Range: Up to 590 feet, providing excellent long-range capabilities.
- Zoom Function: Highly customizable lens for tight focus on specific areas.
- Tamper-Resistant Mounting: For added protection against vandalism.
If you need long-range surveillance or require detailed zoom on specific areas, the CAM-299 is a great option. With its adjustable lens and long-range infrared illuminator, it provides excellent coverage for large properties or specific focal points.
4. CAM-292 Pro Dome 3-10.5mm Varifocal Camera
Best for: Overhead adjustable views at access points.
- Field of View: 111° – 48° (diagonal), 55° – 23° (vertical), 96° – 42° (horizontal)
- IR Illuminator Range: Up to 164 feet for clear visibility at night.
- Varifocal Lens: Adjustable to cover the exact area you need to monitor.
- Storage: Includes 128GB SD card for video storage.
The CAM-292 Pro Dome is ideal for monitoring from overhead positions, such as entrances or parking lots. The ability to adjust the lens allows you to focus on specific areas while maintaining broad coverage.
Choosing the Right Camera for Your Property
When selecting a camera for your property, consider the following factors:
- Field of View: Do you need a wide-angle view or a more focused shot of specific areas?
- Lens Type: Would a fixed lens or adjustable, varifocal lens work best for your needs?
- Night Vision and Range: How far does the camera need to capture footage in low-light conditions?
- Mounting and Placement: Do you need a flexible solution, or will a fixed position work best?
Selecting the right external camera is an important step in enhancing the security of your property. Whether you need a basic fixed-focus camera, a flexible varifocal lens for adjustable coverage, or long-range surveillance for larger areas, there are several options available to suit a variety of needs. By evaluating the layout of your property and the specific security challenges you face, you can make an informed choice that boosts both safety and peace of mind. Installing a gate security camera provides essential monitoring of who enters and exits your property.
Modern security systems often feature a gate entry system with a camera and a gate intercom, like Watchman®, for seamless visitor management. Installing a gate entry system with camera provides an effective first line of defense for residential properties..
Frequently Asked Questions
What is access control with camera and how does it enhance property security?
Access control with camera combines traditional entry management with visual verification capabilities. This integrated system allows property owners to not only control who enters their premises but also visually confirm identities before granting access. The camera component provides an additional security layer by recording all access attempts and enabling remote monitoring of entry points.
How does a gate entry system with camera improve external property security?
A gate entry system with camera provides comprehensive security at your property’s primary access point by combining automated gate controls with real-time video verification of visitors. This system allows you to see and verify visitors before allowing entry, while also maintaining a visual record of all gate activity. The integrated external camera ensures you have complete visibility and control over who accesses your property by providing additional views of visitors and their vehicles.
What is a gate intercom with camera and what are its security benefits?
A gate intercom with camera is a communication system that combines two-way audio with live video of visitors at entry points. This allows property owners to communicate with visitors while simultaneously viewing them on screen, providing both convenience and enhanced security. The visual component helps verify visitor identity and intentions before granting access to the property.
What coverage areas should I consider when installing gate security camera systems?
When planning gate security camera installation, focus on covering critical security areas and factors including: the main entry gate, visitor vehicle details and pedestrian gate activity. Consider camera range and adjustable lens options to ensure optimal coverage of approach areas and clear identification zones. Proper positioning should provide complete visibility of vehicles and individuals approaching your property’s entry points.