Can I Connect My Security Cameras to My Phone?

As more and more consumers incorporate security cameras to protect their homes, properties and businesses, achieving 24-hour peace of mind via real-time alerts through your mobile phone is just as invaluable. 

Combined with Central Station Monitoring, smart automation and other surveillance tools, such surveillance capabilities provide vital information regarding injuries, illness, theft, and property damage.

Here’s a brief explanation about the many benefits, uses, and associated features of connecting security cameras to smartphones. 

Features & Benefits

Security camera technology has evolved significantly in just the last few years. Wireless smart technologies and mobile apps give even more options to safeguard loved ones, homes, and businesses. 

The ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and associated health and safety risks make such interconnectivity even more critical. 

Real-time smartphone alerts report movements and activities within the home’s interior and exterior property areas. Some cameras include additional features, such as two-way audio, video analytics, motion detection, and high-resolution viewing.

Businesses experience additional savings without additional costly measures, such as security guards and gates. Remote viewing also benefits businesses temporarily closed by COVID-19 restrictions or government mandates.

Security cameras connected to mobile phones and Central Station Monitoring can also aid law enforcement in quickly apprehending thieves and vandals. 

Connecting & Syncing

When connecting cameras at your home or business, ensure they’re compatible with the device’s hardware, software, and in-home or business internet connection. Working with an Alarm.com partner such as General Security is a good starting point.

Both wired and wireless cameras can utilize the app for remote viewing—the latter will run through your location's Wi-Fi network. 

Alarm.com also offers a Power over Ethernet (PoE) to Wi-Fi bridge for wireless benefits, without upgrading or installing additional wiring. Used with hardwired ethernet devices, this converter module facilitates compatible wired cameras across a local Wi-Fi network for easy set-up and installation. 

Recorders

Both network video recorders (NVR) and digital video recorders (DVR) capture still images and video footage. The former operates via Internet Protocol (IP) and latter is best for analog systems. 

It’s important to remember NVRs record audio and video, whereas DVRs are video only.

While both have pros and cons, it’s best to implement recording technology compatible with your current devices.

Cameras

Real-time smartphone alerts report movements and activities within the home’s interior and exterior property areas. Some cameras include additional features, such as two-way audio, video analytics, motion detection, and high-resolution viewing.

With many camera types available, installing the best depends on needs, space, and budget. 

General Security offers various interior and exterior types and styles, such as bullet, dome, high definition, thermal imaging, IP, analog, wireless, and doorbell cameras.

How-To Steps

Follow these steps to ensure mobile app connectivity:

1. To Download the Alarm.com app via the iPhone App Store or through Android Google Play, you'll first need to consult an Alarm.com dealer to set up an account. This includes both professional and do-it-yourself solutions.
2. Add and sync each security camera to your phone by scanning relevant QR codes or manually entering each device’s unique identification number.
3. Tap the security camera icon within the app for real-time remote viewing. 
4. Set customized configurations and alerts, motion detection, and other smart technologies for additional security.

Uses

Security cameras with remote viewing provide real-time protection in various areas, applications, and use cases.

Residential

• Deterring Trespassers & Intruders
• Alerting Homeowners to Unusual Sounds & Movements
• Monitoring for Vandalism & Other Suspicious Activities

When connecting cameras at your home or business, ensure they’re compatible with the device’s hardware, software, and in-home or business internet connection. 

Commercial

• Guarding Storefronts, Parking Garages & Offices
• Employee Productivity & Performance
• Venue Crowd Control & Surveillance (For COVID-19 Capacity Compliance)

Public Safety

• Assisting With Criminal Investigations & Apprehension
• Municipal Traffic Studies

Additional Help

For assistance with security cameras, remote viewing and apps for your residential or commercial property, it’s best to work with a reputable services provider, such as General Security.

General Security provides residential and commercial security cameras, video surveillance, and smart technology solutions for peace of mind and safety. Request a free, contactless quote from us today.