Motion Sensor Light with Camera Fixtures: A Comprehensive Guide

What are the main ingredients for a comfortable life?

Now, I don’t know about you, but for me, security is definitely among the top. And when it comes to home and property security, you can never go wrong with installing a motion sensor light and camera fixture around your compound.

These fixtures contribute to the security and safety of your premises and make life that much easier. How? For starters, peace of mind. Imagine knowing that your property and family are safe whether you are around or not.

Isn’t that relaxing?

What’s more, you don’t have to break the bank to do that – unlike in the past. For this, you can thank recent technological innovations in home security like motion sensor lights and camera fixtures. If you don’t know much about these fixtures, then don’t fret.

This post’s instructions guide you in everything you need to know, starting from:

• What a motion sensor light with the camera is.
• How it works.
• Some of its benefits.
• Features to consider while shopping.
• And lastly some FAQs.

So, let’s see how these fixtures will help you keep your premises safe.

1. What is a Motion Sensor Light with a Camera?

As you’ve probably guessed, it’s all in the name of this one. However, let me explain further:
So, these fixtures feature motion sensors – the “eye” of the system – and are usually for general illumination or spotlight coupled with cameras for added security.

Individual associates have a wide range of applications, from security lighting like floodlights to decorative lightings like garden lamps and more. As such, your preferences and needs will dictate the type of fixture you’ll get.

Now, let’s see how this system works.

2. How These Fixtures Work

It only begins with the sensor, which can be infrared or computer vision (CV). Note: These are not the only types of sensors available, but they are the most popular.

Now, infrared fixtures are designed to detect movements through heat waves emitted by moving objects. Examples include people, animals, and cars.

On the other hand, computer vision relies on software within the camera that analyzes video frames and registers movement when a big enough change occurs.

For example:

If a green dot moves three pixels to the right of the camera view, your system will wonder – what is that? So, once the sensor detects movement – in whichever way – it immediately turns on the lights and activates the camera which starts recording.

You will not only know that something is up but also have irrefutable evidence in case something goes down.

Neat, huh?

3. Benefits of Using Motion Sensor Light with Camera

These installations offer many benefits, but here we’ll look at some of the most noticeable ones.
Let’s dive in.

i. Discourage Criminals

Fact:

It’s a dangerous world out there, and your property is vulnerable to vandalism and robbery. It’s just the reality we live in.

However, installing a motion sensor light with camera fixtures around your compound can go a long way in keeping your property safe.

How?

If someone gets within the motion sensor’s range, the light will immediately turn on, and the camera will start recording.

Now, the sudden flood of light into the area will cause the intruder to leave thinking that they have been discovered. What’s more, a well-lit area makes it extremely difficult for anyone to hide and provides an optimal environment for quality camera recording.

ii. Convenience

Do you often feel uneasy when you get home from work at night? Do you get frustrated by having to dig around for your house keys in the dark? Or have you ever tripped over your kid’s skillfully parked tricycle on your way across the yard?

Well, with these lighting fixtures around, you won’t have to worry about these types of mishaps taking place. They will let you see everything with ease.

iii. Saves Energy and Money

A notable feature of motion sensor lights is that they are not frequently switched ON. This feature allows them to save a lot of power.

Moreover, if you combine motion sensor lights with light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, you’ll save on energy usage and cut down your electricity bills.

Practical right?

4. What to Look For When Shopping for Motion Sensor Light with Camera?

So, what should you look for in an excellent exterior security light fixture? Well, here are a few essential features to consider:

i. Sensor Range

The first and arguably most important feature regarding a motion sensor light with the camera has to be its sensor’s range. This feature determines how big or small of an area the sensor covers and therefore detects movement.

So, depending on your needs and preferences, here are some nifty tips:

Long-range sensors are ideal for broad areas – like yards – while short-range sensors are perfect for small spaces or when you want to set the lights up in a sequence – like on a path.

ii. Video Quality

Let me ask you this:

Why would you set up a security system with cameras that capture low, pixelated images? You wouldn’t.

So, before you think of making a purchase, make sure you consider the video quality you’ll be getting. Which, by the way, should be at least HD.

Why HD?

For starters, due to the video being high resolution, it will display more detail with far better clarity. What’s more, you can also zoom in on an HD image without having to compromise its integrity.

Now, here is a quick rundown on the type of cameras you should get:

• A least 1MP – equivalent to 720p.
• 2MP – equal to Full HD or 1080p.
• 8MP – similar to 4K Ultra HD.

Note: With a higher megapixel count, you’ll get better image quality.

iii. Power Method

Another critical feature to be considered is how the lighting fixture will be powered. The main power methods most institutions will support are electrical or solar.

Electrical fixtures tend to be more reliable than their solar counterparts, but you won’t be saving much in terms of power bills.

On the other hand, solar-powered fixtures are straightforward to install and will save you money in the long run. However, the location of these lights will come into play.

So, make sure you install them in an open area where they will get a lot of sunlight.

iv. Lighting Type Technology

Regarding the bulb, I would recommend getting an LED fixture due to its efficiency and energy conservation capabilities.

Next, try and consider the type of illumination offered. The main ones are general descriptions – much like floodlights – and spotlights, which illuminate more like flashlights.

Now, illumination lights are great for broad areas, while spotlights are ideal if you want to focus on a specific site.

v. Video Recorder Connectivity

Get this; connectivity is essential.

Ask yourself, will you be able to get remote access to the footage – whether live or recorded? Also, will you be able to sync all your devices – computer, smartphone, or tablet – with the recorder?

These features are essential because they allow you to monitor your premises even if you are not around. How convenient is that?

vi. Camera

The motion sensor light with the camera fixture you choose to buy should come with an HD camera for relaying those crisp, clear images.

However, the camera’s lens is also an important feature to consider.

So, if you want to monitor a wide area, then consider getting a wide-angle lens – like 2.8mm – which will give you a super-wide field of view.

On the other hand, if you want to capture distant objects, then consider a lens with more power – like 12mm or 50mm. These powerful lenses will help you get clear images from over 100ft away.

In my opinion, you should try and get a camera with a varifocal lens, which will allow you to adjust the lens – often remotely – to your preferred angle.

Now, just like everything in today’s world, these lighting fixtures can also be wireless.
Note: By wireless, I’m referring to the video transmission process.

As you have guessed, these cameras are battery-powered, and the footage they record is transmitted via Wi-Fi networks to your video recorder or server.

5. Motion Sensor Light with Camera: FAQs

i. Do These Fixtures Work During The Daylight?

Some of these fixtures are equipped with photocell technology that prevents them from turning on during the day. This, in turn, increases its lifespan, saves you a lot of money on energy costs, and also provides you with the sense of living in a smart home.

ii. Are These Fixtures Affected By Weather?

Not quite. These fixtures are often designed to work in outdoor areas and withstand harsh weather. You will also find that they are waterproof and won’t be damaged by dust.

6. In Summary

A motion sensor light with a camera is an absolute must-have when it comes to monitoring and securing your premises.

From saving you money and energy to deterring unsuspecting criminals, these fixtures are perfect for anyone. What’s more, the camera provides video footage, which you can access remotely and use as evidence if need be. So, can it get better than that? I don’t think so.