Modern security systems using GSM technology usually include cameras in the system. But these are not just cameras with the ability to fix a “picture,” but devices that are capable of real-time response to what is happening in the observation area. To do this, manufacturers use modern sensors that allow you to send a signal to the central control panel. However, the simplest systems are designed only to notify the owner via mobile communications. The main thing in such a system is the type of sensor. The most effective option is a video camera with a motion sensor and night vision, which allows you to control the surveillance zone regardless of the time of day and, if necessary, send the appropriate signals to the user.
Features of the camera with motion sensor
The main difference between these models is the ability to record using a motion detector. This means that in the normal state the camera is inactive, and its activation begins only at the moment when the action begins to occur in the observed field. The benefit of such devices is to save recording space. In order not to use capacious servers for video material, the developers proposed to optimize the recording process itself, initially saving the equipment from processing extra data. At the same time, a modern digital video camera with such a sensor can have 32 GB or more memory cards. Storage volume can be determined not only by the device’s activity time, but also by the recording quality.
Analog and Digital Models
It is believed that the fashion for motion sensors arose during the period of popularity of digital equipment. But this is not entirely true, since analog cameras were previously equipped with similar detectors. Another thing is that such equipment has problems in compatibility with registrars when it is necessary to send a signal. Today, a digital video camera equipped with motion sensors is more popular. It is these models that have the ability to inform the owner of the presence of movement in the protected area. The lack of such a function in analog cameras is also their serious drawback. There are other differences, but they all boil down to the fact that digital devices are more technological and functional.
So, the latest models of IP cameras provide the owner with ample opportunities for communication via the Internet. As a result, even sending SMS messages at the time the action is committed becomes less and less relevant. For example, a modern video camera with a motion sensor can use e-mail and other channels for notifying the owner, which increases the reliability of the security system.
Main characteristics
Of great importance in the efficiency and quality of work of such cameras is the resolution and the number of megapixels. In standard devices, a 5-megapixel matrix is used, which provides recording in the format of 1280x720. Next, pay attention to the ability to record sound. This feature is not available in many models, but the presence of a microphone with high-quality recording significantly expands the capabilities of the equipment. It has already been noted that a camcorder with a motion sensor can be equipped with memory cards. Their volume on average varies from 32 to 64 GB - this is enough if it is planned to operate equipment with short periods of activity. Also an indicator of the high efficiency of the camera is the ability to pre-record. Using this function, the device does not save video material from the moment the activity was recorded in the field of visibility, but performs buffering several seconds before the start of movement. This period on average varies from 3 to 10 seconds.
Night vision capability
The use of infrared illumination and thermal imagers makes it possible to provide night vision. This addition is organically combined with motion sensors, which allows you to expand the functionality of the equipment. By the way, depending on the technological design, such models can be effective in different conditions. For example, a photosensitive video camera with a motion sensor can capture objects in the dark only with at least minimal lighting. In turn, thermal imaging analogues are independent of light and are able to work, focusing on thermal radiation. As technology develops, hybrid models also appear, but they are not so common because of the high cost.
Mini camcorder with motion sensor
Such devices are the best option if you want to implement covert surveillance. In size, they rarely exceed the dimensions of a matchbox, which provides tremendous opportunities for installation invisible to the third eye. Also, mini-devices do not lose to full-size counterparts in operational characteristics. For example, the latest models allow recording in FullHD format and are equipped with infrared LED-backlight for night vision. True, in terms of autonomy, a mini-video camera with a motion sensor demonstrates less high performance. The average recording time of the battery model is 1-2 hours.
Models for outdoor use
Such models are subject to the most stringent requirements in terms of mechanical protection of the case. The material must withstand physical influences, precipitation, wind and at the same time maintain performance. In some cases, it is recommended to pay attention to additional protection means - this may be, for example, anti-corrosion coating or anti-vandal housing. You should also consider the control method. In most cases, a street camcorder with a motion sensor includes a remote control. This allows you to control the operating parameters of the device at a distance, although you still have to change the memory cards manually.
How much is?
The simplest models are estimated at 3-4 thousand rubles. It can be outdoor devices with a basic option and a set of required tools for communication with other equipment. More advanced mini-cameras are estimated at 6-7 thousand rubles. But this applies to advanced devices that provide both night vision and high quality recording. At the same time, a hidden video camera with a motion sensor, which notifies the owner through digital communication technologies, can cost 10 thousand rubles. This is the most advanced kind of IP camera.
Conclusion
The presence of various sensors in tracking systems has long been mandatory in security systems. They not only provide benefits in the form of saving space on servers, but also optimize the monitoring process itself. In particular, a video camera with a motion sensor allows the owner to immediately pay attention to the moments where the action takes place. At the same time, models of this type are organically combined with other functionalities of surveillance systems - these are means for providing night vision, and wireless technologies, as well as the ability to transmit messages over several channels. However, there are also disadvantages to cameras equipped with motion sensors. So, if the system is programmed to send an alarm at the moment the detector is triggered, then any random action will once again and in vain disturb the owner. It is a common situation when a room camera with such a sensor is triggered by the movement of a cat or dog.