San Francisco International Airport Adds More Cameras

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located about thirteen miles south of downtown San Francisco. It's the tenth largest airport in the United States and the twentieth in the entire world. It serves as a major gateway from North America to Europe, Asia, and Australia. SFO is a major hub for United Airlines and Virgin America is also based out of the airport. In addition to the airlines themselves, it offers a number of restaurants, shopping, baggage storage, public showers, a medical clinic, assistance for lost or stranded travelers and military personnel, and the Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum. It also boasts a strong surveillance system, which is about to get even stronger.

Currently, there are over 1,300 cameras at the airport, keeping travelers safe, and thanks to a $5 million grant from the Transportation Security Administration, there will soon be a lot more. The new cameras will be added to terminals, which will allow the airport control center to monitor the facilities with a graphical user interface program that maps all the cameras at SFO. Personnel will be able to switch quickly from camera to camera. Cameras already monitor the airfield and roadways, as well as the terminals, baggage areas, and security checkpoints.

The goal is that the new system will allow security agents to respond to incidents more quickly. According to Edward Gomez of the TSA, SFO's CCTV system is one of the best in the nation. He says it has helped officials respond to illegal activity and has been helpful overall with day-to-day airport operations.

SFO is hoping the new cameras will take about three months to install. While the TSA has been adding extra security to airports since 9/11, this particular program has been in place since before the terrorist attacks. After the Christmas Day 2009 bomb attempt, the TSA is also adding whole-body scanners to the nation's airports. SFO currently has body scanners in its international terminal according to the San Francisco Examiner, however, Mayor Gavin Newsom would like to see them in all of the airport's terminals.

Check out this related article: California Security Cameras

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Courthouse Security Cameras

In January of this year, a man named Johnny Wicks lost a Social Security claim in Las Vegas. A few months later, Wicks walked into a federal courthouse in Las Vegas, pulled a gun from his jacket and began shooting, killing a court security officer and injuring a deputy United States marshal. Wicks was chased, shot, and killed outside of the courthouse by federal marshals and law enforcement agencies were able to take surveillance video from the building to check to be sure he was the only gunman.

Disturbances like this are not a daily occurrence in courthouses, but they certainly do happen, and often times, they are very violent and even deadly. Tensions are high in court and this can often lead to disruptions, fights, and even in some cases, shootings. This is one reason why placing security cameras in your courthouse is absolutely necessary.

Courthouse Security Cameras have been known to:

-Prevent Violence: When a would-be criminal knows they are being watched by security cameras, they are less likely to commit a criminal act.

- Protect Employees: When an incident such as the shooting mentioned above does occur, courthouse employees are usually the first ones to get hurt. From judges to security staff, there have been any number of incidents that involve courthouse employees being injured or killed and if security cameras are being monitored, sometimes violence can be prevented.

- Provide Evidence: In the event your courthouse does host violence or other criminal activity, when security cameras are rolling, they are more-than-likely recording footage of the incident(s). This footage can be used, not only for law enforcement to release pictures and videos to the media, in an effort to catch a suspect, but in court to prove the suspect actually committed the crime.

If you are planning to install security cameras in your courthouse and need some help deciding where to put them, there are a few things to keep in mind. Check out the tips below before having your cameras installed:

- Place cameras where you don't already have security. If you already have other security measures in place, such as security officers or guards, place your cameras in areas where those measures aren't as effective.

- Have you had past incidents in your courthouse? Do they occur in certain areas? Are your courtrooms often subject to violence or maybe you have a courtyard area that is often subject to vandalism? These are areas that definitely require security cameras.

- Placing cameras at all exits and entrances is a great idea because you are able to capture images of anyone who enters and leaves your courthouse.

- Lobbies, hallways, and other areas where many people may gather at once usually attract violence because of the sheer number of people around. Criminals can blend in or inflict harm on many people at once.

- Cameras inside the courtroom are also a must. Tensions are high and people often learn their life's fate in these rooms. No one knows how someone could react to that news.

- Cameras should be placed outside your courthouse, as well as inside. Disputes often happen outside a courthouse where two opposing parties may confront one another. Also, vandalism can be a problem in parking lots, courtyards, rest areas, and any other area outside your courthouse.
Check out these related stories:
1. Nevada Security Cameras
2. Government Security Cameras

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Don't Leave Your Small Business Vulnerable

Though property crime rates are on the decline, more than 1 in 8 households were victims of property crime in 2008. Small businesses are prone to theft and other property crime like households, because there is the perception that they are more likely to get away with burglarizing a small business than a larger business. There are many ways to protect your business from property crime, like criminal conviction checks, past employment verification, and employee education (more theft protection tips), but security cameras are often the most effective method.

Security cameras and public knowledge of the use of security cameras creates a perception of detection. As score.org puts it: “Employees who perceive that they will be caught engaging in occupational fraud and abuse are less likely to commit it. Increasing the perception of detection may well be the most effective fraud prevention method.” Of course, not only employees are deterred by the perception of detection, the same goes for other people who might consider theft or other property crime.

Unfortunately, security cameras do not stop all instances of theft. However, property is more likely to be recovered or reimbursed when the theft is recorded on camera. In reality, very little stolen property is actually recovered, but most of the recovery is thanks in part to security systems. Due to this, theft deterrance should be the main focus of the camera system.

Today, security systems are affordable for small business and even homeowners. Small business surveillance systems can be installed for as little as $1000 - $5000. The security systems can be CCTV or even IP-based so you can view your cameras from anywhere with internet access.

Systems can be put together very affordable; bullet security cams and dome security cameras start at $80 for black and white and $150 for color. Lenses are available in all sizes from 2.5mm to 500mm and can be changed easily, so your needs can be met for all surveillance areas regardless of size and distance. Pan-tilt-zoom cameras, known as PTZ cameras, that allow users to “look around” the surveillance area are also available.

Don't leave your small business, restaurant, or bar unprotected! Act before its too late and you're the victim of theft. Click for more information about camera types and assistance choosing what cameras are right for your small business surveillance needs.

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Shopping Malls Need Security Cameras

Shopping mall security cameras are almost common sense. Think about it. Malls attract some of the largest crowds of any other establishment. You have so many people in such a varied space and so much money being exchanged on a daily basis. It's the ideal location for criminals. Malls often have multiple levels, stores, restaurants, movie theaters and more. Buildings are large and in between them are open plazas, both outside and in. You also have areas where merchandise is stored and delivered. Not only are malls practically a "welcome" sign for criminals, they can present a challenge for anyone looking to help beef up security. One way to do that is with security cameras and monitoring systems. Below you'll find some tips on where, why, and how you should place your mall's cameras.

Where should you place your small security cameras?

Malls usually contain a variety of types of stores and even unique building shape. Because of this, deciding where to place your cameras can be a tough decision to make. Here are some things to think about.

1. Does your mall already have security personnel? Cameras should always first be places in areas they are not always monitored or easily accessed by human eyes. If you have a security team, consider placing your cameras where they can't be on the lookout 24/7.
2. Who is allowed where in your mall? Do you have areas that can only be accessed by employees? Do you have areas where truck drivers from all over the country are making deliveries? Are there parts of your mall, such as lounging areas or stairwells, where customers can easily hide to commit a crime?
3. Do you have a parking lot of deck? Because of the size of your mall, you probably have a lot of places for people to park. Parking lots are not often monitored and are ideal places for a criminal to steal cars, rob and even assault your customers or employees.
4. Are there any areas of your mall that are prone to theft or criminal activity? Maybe several people have been robbed in one of your stairwells or on a certain side of your parking lot. Maybe one particular store sees a lot of theft. Maybe your courtyard is often vandalized. Keep this in mind when deciding where to put your cameras.
5. Does your mall connect to any other types of public buildings, such a subway tunnel? Public transportation housing is a particularly busy area where just anyone can and will walk in, with the intent to cause harm to your mall.

Why do malls need security cameras?
With so many different types of buildings all in one location, malls are very attractive to would-be thieves. From huge parking lots full of cars to large retail shops full of goods, a security camera can help those in charge of a mall's security monitor for illegal activity, as well as aid in the investigation in the event of a crime. Cameras can also help deter such crimes. If a would-be thief sees a camera watching their every move, they may think twice about taking something. Also, the presence of a camera can prevent a petty crime from escalating into something major.

Customers feel safer when they are being monitored by quality security cameras and safe customers are happy customers. Also, you can prevent major lawsuits by catching incidents involving customers on video. Monitoring employees is another advantage to having security cameras in your malls. In 2004, employee theft alone cost businesses in the United States over 40 billion dollars. Don't let your mall become part of this statistic.

How to place your mall security cameras.
So You've taken the plunge and purchased your cameras, but now you're not sure how to go about installing them? Here are some great tips that will help you get your security cameras up and working in no time!

1. Place cameras at all entrances and exits so that you can see who is coming and going at all times and capture all faces on cameras.
2. Place cameras in areas that are always full of people, such as food courts, courtyards, and lobbies.
3. Make sure you've taken precautions against weather or vandalism, especially with cameras placed outside.
4. Make sure you've got cameras in your storage areas so you can see what employees are up to at all times. The same goes for delivery or loading areas.
5. Call Camera Security Now at 877-422-1907 for more help and tips on putting security cameras in your mall!

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Security Cameras for Farms

If you own a farm, you know security is very important. The addition of a surveillance camera system can be an important addition to your farm's security. Quality cameras will help keep things running smoothly by reducing the chances for any kind of tampering or contamination, and keeping your animals, equipment, and property safe among other things.

Farm Security Cameras have so many benefits! When you own a farming business, you must keep everything safe and clean because people depend on your products to survive. Security cameras will help you keep everything safe and secure. For example, a surveillance system can help protect your water supply, one of the most sensitive areas on your farm. Without water, your plants or animals will not survive and if water becomes contaminated, it could be a disaster for your business.

Cameras can monitor for intruders and prevent would-be break-ins. Strategically placed cameras monitor any possible points of entry for criminals, wishing to harm your farm. Not only will the sight of a camera potentially deter the criminal, but if someone does intrude on your property, you'll have images of that person you can present to police or local media, in an effort to see justice served. This way, you can keep your animals, products, and property safe.

If you want to keep an eye on your farms' day-to-day operations, but you can't be around to do so, security cameras can help you do that too. Be sure your cows are being milked or your pigs or getting their feed, or make sure your crops are getting appropriate water without even stepping a foot outside. Also, you can monitor farm employees to be sure they are making the right decisions and doing their jobs.

When installing your farm surveillance systems, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, you'll want to be sure your cameras are weather-proof. Some cameras can not handle the varying temperatures and weather condition. Also, farm cameras can be subject to vandalism themselves due to their remote location. You'll want to place your cameras in tamper-proof housing when you feel it's necessary.

If you decide to place security cameras on your farm, you'll want to be mindful of where you place them. Cameras at gates or fences where animals have the potential to escape will allow you to keep an eye on that area and prevent an escape from happening. Cameras at driveways allow you to keep track of who is entering your property and of course if you've had any criminal issues in the past, you'll want to install cameras in those areas as they are susceptible to more wrong-doing.

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Security Cameras for Apartment Buildings

Anyone who owns an apartment building or complex know security is an important issue. Apartment buildings often become the scene for a number of crimes for many reasons. One way to protect your business and your tenants is to have properly installed quality security cameras in and around your building. Here is a look at what you need to know about apartment building security cameras.

First of all, installing cameras in and around your apartment building serves a number of purposes. You can prevent theft and vandalism; often times a would-be criminal sees a camera and thinks twice about committing a crime. You'll also secure public places where your residents often congregate. Surveillance cameras at various entrances and in hallways may prevent or detect intruders or even violence or other criminal acts committed by your own residents. And these days, you can access your camera footage from almost anywhere. If you're at home or in your office, you can get online, log in, and instantly see what your cameras are seeing, making it easy to check in on your building.

Before setting up your security camera system, you'll need to consider a few things. For example, what kind of security is already in place? If you can't afford to outfit your entire building with cameras, but you have a guard at a certain door, maybe you can skip that door and mount your cameras at other entrances. If you have problems with certain areas, maybe a stairwell or a particular hallway, you'll want to consider put cameras in those areas first. Other things you'll need to consider are the layout of your building, where your tenants park, and how many buildings make up your complex.

When you do finally place your cameras, don't forget to do the following:

1. Place cameras in areas like parking garages, common areas, mail and laundry rooms, and other places where people often go outside of their individual apartment.

2. Place cameras in administrative areas, especially in areas where rent may be paid. You never know when something could go wrong.

3. Place cameras at entrances so that in the event the wrong person enters your building, you've got a good look at at them and pictures for the police and media.

4. Visit CameraSecurityNow.com for some of the best rates in the business on surveillance cameras for apartment buildings.

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Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

5 Reasons to Install Security Cameras in Your Business

If you own a business, you're probably constantly thinking about safety and security among a million other things. Keeping your business, your employees, and yourself safe takes priority over everything else. Security cameras can take a huge weight off your shoulders, by being the extra set of eyes and ears you need in the event something goes horribly wrong. But there are so many other reasons why you should consider installing a quality surveillance camera system in your business.

1. Deter Crime - If you're worried about crime, cameras can not only catch criminals in the act, but the very presence of surveillance systems can make a would-be criminal think twice about any wrong-doing. Think about it, if you planned rob or vandalize a store or office, would you want to do it if you knew you were being recorded?

2. Prevent Employee Theft - Chances are you've gone to great lengths to screen new employees but even the best employers can make a mistake. If you suspect one of your employees of wrong-doing but don't know where to begin to try to get to the bottom of things, a camera can be a very helpful tool. This is especially true if you own an establishment where cash is exchanged. Cameras posted near cash registers or other places where employees are often stationed can not only show you if an employee is stealing, but may even deter an employee from committing a crime if they know you're watching.

3. Be used as evidence - If a crime is committed in or around your business and the person accused of committing the crime was caught on camera, you've got an extra piece of evidence for a court case. Jurors and judges can watch footage or view photos from your security cameras and establish that the person on trial did indeed commit the crime. Not only will you be preventing the same person from causing you more trouble in the future, you'll be helping out your entire community.

4. Help law enforcement solve crimes - This is probably one of the biggest reasons cameras in businesses are used. When someone commits a crime and is caught on camera, police and other law enforcement officials can use the footage to release video or photos to the public via various media outlets. Having a picture of the suspect can make a world of difference when it comes to making an arrest and getting dangerous criminal off the street.

5. Keep an eye on things - If you can't be at the office all the time but like to know what's going on, a security camera can help do just that. You can keep an eye on things from your home computer with a few quick clicks of your mouse and make sure your business is running smoothly and nothing out of the ordinary is going on.

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Looking for a DVR or NVR Security Camera System? If so call today at 877-422-1907 x226 for a free phone consultation.

TV Output from Geovision DVR Server

Currently there are four methods available on having a TV output of your DVR monitoring.

1) If the PC DVR server is equipped with a combo card, there is a single video out (RCA) connection on the card. If your card is designed for 8 channels, all 8 channels will be displayed on the TV. If your card is designed for 16 channels, then all 16 channels will be displayed on the TV. Combo cards consist of the GV-1120, 1240 and 1480. If you wish to show only one channel or change the overall layout of the multiple cameras on display (i.e. channel 1 is large with 3-6 on the side is small) you will need to use the software called Spot Monitoring. Spot Monitoring is only available on the GV 8.01+ software, which means you need to latest GV combo card before you can use this feature.

2) If your using the GV-250, 600, 650, or 800 capture card, then you will need to buy a separate extension card in order to have the TV output feature. The card is called a GV-Loop Through card and can output four channels. Unlike the combo cards, the GV-Loop Through card will only output one channel at a via for each connection. For example, output #1 will only output camera #1, output #3 will only output camera #3. You do not have the option to use the Spot Monitoring software with this card.

3) For those that wish to have the spot monitoring feature, but only have a GV-250, 600, 650, or 800 capture card, there is a new extension card that is available. This card is call the GV-TV Out card, and will give you the display feature options just like that with the Spot Monitoring software. Since this card is fairly new, it will only work the the GV main system 8.01+ software.

4) If you wish to display one channel to multiple TVs, you will need to buy a module called DIS-104. This module will recieve one video signal and distribute it to four separate TVs.

For more information contact Camera Security Now