The year 1984 has been and passed. When I was growing up, 1984 was well documented in a book of the same name as being a time when "big brother" would literally know everything about me; and monitor my every movement. Well, it's not quite as scary now: privacy laws are put in place to supposedly protect us from unwanted intrusions but as a model citizen, I for one welcome the increased presence of security cameras.

Crime continues to rise not just in a physical sense but also in the world of white collar business and security cameras have become a worthy ally in the detection and prevention of crime on most levels. It seems everywhere you go today there is a "third eye" monitoring your every move; in our local streets, airports, shopping centers, work places and importantly, our homes.

Security Cameras Have Become Sophisticated

Technology has meant security cameras have become more and more sophisticated. Amazingly, web cams and IP security cameras now allow us to check in an cast an eye over our property by simply logging into a computer. Receivers pick up video signals through a transmitter and as long as the receiver is connected to a TV, computer or VCR, you'll be able to monitor their field of vision. Now, wireless security camera technology is making strong inroads into the "world of the third eye."

Choosing A Security Camera

Obviously cost is going to determine exactly what level of coverage a home or business owner will receive but such is the ingenuity of camera design and technology that there is a camera for all types of situations and budgets. Believe it or not, you can even install fake cameras designed to capitalize on the theory that having a security deterrent is better than having no security at all.

When shopping for security cameras, clarity of image is an important consideration. Be specific in what you want. Price will dictate camera efficiency but in the end, they basically all perform the same function and if clarity is not an issue in your case, then don't spend unnecessary dollars: in other words, don't go overboard. Consider strongly the durability aspects of your camera especially if it is being installed outside.

One of my major considerations would be recording function. There is no point in my opinion, in installing a device which just scans an area unless it's your preference and you are big on the deterrent aspect. In an area which is considered high crime risk, image recording is vital and recording quality just as important.

There is no doubt that society is still getting used to the presence of security cameras and there are many who don't like them. As a home and business owner, I can only endorse their presence. They have been effective in the battle against crime and they played a big part in locating suspects during the London terrorist attacks in 2005. They are here to stay.