DIY Security Systems
The presence of CCTVs around is enough to make people feel uncomfortable. Much more so when you think you’re audio recorded, too. Because of that, it’s best to know how to tell if security cameras have audio.
It doesn’t take much to understand why people become uneasy around security cameras. There’s the feeling of being watched by someone else you do not see. Also, there’s the fear of having unguarded moments caught on cam. No one likes that for sure. And if being cam-corded is not intrusive yet, some cameras can even record your voice, too! To those asking if do security cameras have audio? Yes! So you may want to ascertain that your conversations are not listened to by CCTV audio recorder. To do so, it pays to know some tips on how to tell if security cameras have audio.
Types of Security Cameras with Audio Recorder
One right way on how to tell if security cameras have audio is to know its type. Not all security cameras are made equal. To answer your question, “can security cameras record sound,” the answer is that it depends on the type of camera. Some cameras are inferior in terms of technology, and so they can’t record sound at all. However, there are high-end cameras that sure can, and it’s best to get to know them. It pays to be knowledgeable so as not to compromise your security and privacy. The ways to tell if security cameras have audio can be tricky because basically, audio-recording cameras have two types: cameras with an external microphone and cameras with built in microphone.
Cameras with External Microphone
Of the two types of security cameras that can record sound, it is easier to spot a camera with an audio recorder when the microphone is located externally. The reason for this is apparent; the receiver is visible. With that, you can quickly tell that the camera can record your noise. That should warn you to be cautious with your words, lest you risk your conversation leaking out there. It’s worth minding your words when you notice that cameras have an external microphone.
Cameras with Built-in Microphone
This type of security camera is what one should be wary about because the microphone is not visible. Thus, you could hardly tell if the camera can record audio or not. Here are tips on how to tell if security cameras have audio when the microphone is built-in.
- Inspect the body of the camera: If possible, examine the camera and look for a small hole, which indicates where the microphone is. The audio gets in from that hole, and that is one telling sign that it can record audio. Be extra cautious then.
- Do a quick search online: Because one can argue that you cannot possibly inspect the camera for the presence of a tiny hole from afar. That’s a valid concern you got. But if you would truly like to be sure if the camera can record voice without appearing too skeptical, then the trick is to ask indirectly. Ask the personnel for the brand of security camera they have installed, then make a quick search on the internet and see where the security camera type falls. That’s should tell you what you would like to know.
- Ask directly: The easiest way to tell if the security camera has audio is to ask the building manager directly. They should tell you the truth as the law compels them to.
How Far Can Security Cameras Record Audio?
Now that you are already a pro in the subject “how to tell if security cameras have audio,” you have another task. It’s time to figure out how far security cameras can record sound. Seeing that a camera has a sound recorder should not immediately make you worry. For all you know, with your distance from the camera, it can’t record your voice anymore. The average audio range for most good quality security cameras is 6 meters. Security cameras are usually installed from higher places, so there’s often enough distance from the recorder to the subject. So if you are not in close proximity from where the security camera is, then chances are you are safe from being audio-recorded. This should give you peace of mind.
But, Can Anyone Just Record Audio with Security Cameras?
The answer is NO. The law prohibits audio-recording more strictly than video-recording in public places. However, there are instances when recording audio with security cameras is legal. Take for example security cameras installed in private homes. In this case, the homeowner has the right to put a security camera with audio recording if only to serve security purposes. However, in most instances, the limitations of audio recording follow that of video recording. Never shall anyone be allowed to record audio and video in places that requires high level of privacy such as restrooms, toilets, and whatnot. Should you find yourself being recorded in these places, you have all the right to report to the authorities. It is best to check State policies to be more accurate with the legality of audio recording with security cameras. Find out more about Security Cameras.
Conclusion
While the presence of security cameras with audio recording can make one feel uneasy, we should not forget that it might just work on our advantage. Security cameras can be of help in today’s world when it has become so easy to wrongfully accuse anyone of any wrongdoing. We have witnessed how erroneous and malicious accusations have been brought to light, all thanks to the help of security cameras. So while understandably, it can make you feel anxious, especially when you have no idea how to tell if security cameras have audio, know that security cameras can be your saving grace, too. I’m sure there might even be a need to install one in your home to ensure home security.