Solar Powered Security Cameras
Choosing the right solar powered security camera means considering factors like durability, weather resistance, and recording storage. Other important attributes include camera resolution and field of view, with higher resolution cameras offering better image clarity.
These cameras are ideal for remote properties, vacation homes, and Airbnb rentals that may be unattended for extended periods of time. They also provide a constant power supply, deterring vandals or porch pirates and providing valuable evidence in the event of a break-in.
Solar Panels
Solar powered cameras use energy from the sun to charge batteries, eliminating the need for a wired connection. This is especially beneficial in remote locations where a power outlet may not be available. Solar security camera systems are also eco-friendly, reducing carbon emissions and fossil fuel usage.
To make the most of your solar powered camera, place it in a sunny location where the solar panel can absorb sunlight for most of the day. A south facing wall or atop a shed are both great options. If you’re unsure of how much direct sun your location gets, check the camera’s spec sheet to determine its nominal wattage requirement and find out how many hours of peak sunlight it receives per day.
The solar panels on a solar security camera convert sunlight into DC (Direct Current) electricity, which then charges the battery in the powerhouse of the camera. This energy is used to record video and store data. Most solar security cameras can run for up to eight hours without needing a recharge, providing continuous surveillance even when your home or business is unoccupied.
However, if your solar security camera uses a large battery, you’ll need to consider its power usage in winter. The shorter daylight hours and low sun angle in winter reduce the amount of sunlight your solar panel can absorb, reducing its charging efficiency. Additionally, snow can easily cover a solar panel, inhibiting its ability to absorb sunlight.
Batteries
Powered by solar energy, these cameras work with wireless solar camera clean and renewable power to help reduce your carbon footprint and electricity bills. They also eliminate the need for electrical wiring, making them cost-effective and versatile. Solar-powered security cameras are especially useful for remote locations where access to traditional power is limited.
Battery capacity plays an important role in the performance of solar-powered security cameras. Look for a model that comes with rechargeable batteries that have a high storage capacity so they can provide a continuous power supply for monitoring and recording even at night or during cloudy days. The battery can also be recharged during periods of bright sunlight.
The type of battery that your camera uses also impacts its overall efficiency. Choose a battery that is made of durable materials and has a long lifespan to ensure your camera remains in service for years to come. The best solar-powered security cameras offer local video storage on an SD card or cloud storage to minimize the need for manual data backup and retrieval.
Most solar-powered security cameras come with a built-in rechargeable battery that stores enough power to keep the camera operational for a long time, even on cloudy or solar powered cameras rainy days. Some models also have a light that can be used to alert you to low battery levels so you can take action before the camera shuts off.
Internal Memory Cards
A camera’s internal memory can provide a reliable local storage option in places without internet connectivity. This is particularly helpful in remote areas where it’s hard to reach an electrical outlet. Many solar powered cameras come with SD card slots to facilitate this functionality.
SD cards use flash memory, a type of integrated circuit that stores data in tiny cells that act as gates or switches (ON or OFF). Each cell holds only one bit of information, so a 512GB SD card has about 4.1 TRILLION of those tiny ON or OFF switches! This makes them ideal for storing binary data, which is what digital media files are.
Security cameras that store video on an SD card can operate independently of a home Wi-Fi network or Internet connection. They can work during the night even if there is no Wi-Fi signal, and they can still record motion and sound. This makes them ideal for remote locations such as a cabin or campsite where it would be difficult to wire in a hardwired camera.
Some solar powered cameras such as the Reolink Go have internal SD card slots that allow them to work with or without Wi-Fi, so you can set them up on a farm and monitor trespassers from a distance. They also have an optional solar panel attachment so you can keep the batteries charged, and they come with a camouflage skin to help them blend in.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is the wireless networking technology that allows you to transfer data across short distances. Cameras equipped with Wi-Fi are capable of uploading photos directly to a computer or to the internet. This can be helpful if you want to access your pictures from any device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Wi-Fi cameras can also transmit video to DVR or a cloud-based server, so you can observe footage from anywhere in the world.
Many solar powered WiFi cameras have an app that you can download to your smartphone or tablet. This will allow you to connect the camera to your home WiFi network. To connect, make sure the camera is powered on and within range of your router’s WiFi signal. Then, open your smartphone’s app and look for a prompt to add the camera to the network. You will usually be asked to choose the camera’s network name and enter its password.
Alternatively, you can connect your solar powered WiFi camera to a private or public WiFi network and view its footage through the app on your smartphone. However, privacy may be an issue if you use a public connection to upload your camera’s images. This is especially true when using a public WiFi hotspot that requires a sign-in or acceptance of terms of service. A private WiFi connection is more secure and will ensure your privacy is protected.