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Archive for May, 2009

CCTV Security Camera Guide

May 31st, 2009 Adam Togo No comments

There are two types of CCTV cameras. You can choose from CMOS or CCD which are differentiated by the image sensor. Cameras that are CMOS based are cheaper of the two but do not produce the same quality of image in terms of sharpness and clarity as the CCD camera delivers.

Depending on your needs you can find the camera that is right for you. If you need to identify faces, you’ll need a vastly different security camera from a need to simply monitor crowd traffic patterns.

There is a difference in cameras designed for indoor versus outdoor use. There are additional durability standards that the camera would need to ensure it survives the harsh conditions, unlike an indoor security camera.

The overall size of your security system, including the number of cameras you will need, will determine your spending ceiling. If it was just one camera you might spend a little extra for extra features, for example higher resolution. But across a 20 camera system that little extra you spend per camera will definitely add up to some serious money. Your budget will directly impact your buying decision and needs to be sufficient for the right cameras to adequately serve your needs.

One of most important consideration is lighting of the area you want to monitor. If you plan on installing an outdoor security camera to protect your detached car garage from thieves but buy a high quality day camera that isn’t designed for low light environments, your video feed will be different shades of black frames.

For nigh scenes, black and white cameras are recommended since they can deliver sharper images in low light settings. There are also day/night outdoor cameras with lighting sensors that adjust the camera for optimal recording at different lighting levels.

There are also dedicated night vision cameras for true low light recording. The minimum amount of light required for the camera to record properly is measured by the LUX rating. A camera of lower LUX rating requires less light and a rating of 0 means the camera is designed for complete darkness.

When it comes to the sharpness of the image, this is measured in resolution. Higher resolution cameras will produce higher quality images. Entry level cameras will have resolutions of about 330 lines and up to 400 lines in higher end cameras.

When it comes to recording the video feed from the camera, most people will do with the DVR, which stands for digital video recorder. In more advanced monitoring systems there are controls for panning and zooming the camera in real-time to get closeups or follow a particular object.

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Resin Wicker Patio Furniture: Think of Your Patio as Your Second Living Room

May 31st, 2009 Jason Gonzalez No comments

Remember that older outdoor furniture will need another layer of sealant or varnish to protect it in the rainy winter months. If you can keep it under a cover during this time of year, that’s even better.If you’re really not worried about looks or style, just go with plastic patio furniture.

Rain, wind, snow, and even sunlight can do a lot of damage over time to even the best quality resin wicker patio furniture. Oxygen and water are necessary building blocks of life because they are extremely reactive, which is good for people, but bad for furniture. On top of that, wind, snow, and rain can all do a good amount of physical punishment to that same furniture.

In that case, spending the money and getting a good set of furniture covers is the second best choice. Keep in mind that grills and any other furniture using in cooking should have covers used year round for sanitary reasons. Furniture covers for the outdoors is not a good area to cheap out in, spend the extra money and get the good cover.

Once you have an idea of the type of furniture you want, it is time to think about the type of material that the furniture is made from. Natural materials include wicker made from canes or switches and wood such as teak, cypress or cedar. Super strong and durable options include wrought iron and cast aluminum.

Here are the dirty little secrets to mastering the art of cleaning patio furniture, cushions. Most cushions have synthetic covers and polyester fill and are designed to withstand the elements. Hose down cushions whenever they start looking dusty or dirty.

Wrought iron. Wash with soapy water; rinse and towel dry. Wax or polish it twice a year. Touch up any rust spots immediately. During winter, either bring indoors or cover.

Wicker furniture is prepared through combined sources of bamboo, rattan and plastic products. It is excellent outdoor furniture choice today which is durable as well as robust and flexible enough for both commercial and private purposes. That is why they have become one of the most sought after open-air furniture choices today, wicker baskets, pots, lamp shades and blinds are other important wicker products.

Shore and eucalyptus are very attractive, less-expensive options, but they can be a bit less durable Wood. Clean with a mild detergent and scrub brush at least once a year. Store indoors over winter if possible.

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