In today’s rapidly evolving world of home security, having control at your fingertips is almost a requirement. With iPhone app-controlled security cameras, you can monitor your home from anywhere, ensuring peace of mind whether you’re at work or on vacation.
In this guide, we’re recommending 7 of the best home security cameras that can be managed from an iPhone app.
Amongst the array of options, the Alarm.com series stands out for its easy-to-use app that integrates seamlessly with the hardware. Alarm.com cameras offer robust features and intuitive controls, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking convenient and reliable security solutions. Most consumers tend to enjoy the 1080p wi-fi cameras with 2-way audio that Alarm.com offers.
Arlo Pro 3 takes home surveillance to the next level with its high-definition 2560p video quality (which is higher resolution than the usual 1080p) and versatile iPhone app control. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of setting up a multi-camera system or adjusting settings on the go, Arlo Pro 3 ensures a user-friendly experience.
Arlo Pro 3 Pros: High quality video (2560p)
Arlo Pro 3 Cons: Equipment is proprietary, reports of short battery life
A product from tech giant, Google designed to enhance your home security, the Nest Cam IQ Indoor boasts advanced features like facial recognition and crisp 1080p video streaming. With its tailored iPhone app interface, monitoring your home is easy and instant.
Nest Cam IQ Indoor Pros: Smart Features, small low profile
Nest Cam IQ Indoor Cons: Proprietary, Google Home app required, pay extra for features
Ring Spotlight Cam offers more than just standard surveillance. With its built-in spotlight and motion-activated alerts, it’s not merely a camera—it’s a protection system. Control it effortlessly via the Ring iPhone app for added convenience.
Ring Spotlight Cam Pros: Spotlight camera provides extra protection and visibility, real-time alerts
Ring Spotlight Cam Cons: Proprietary device can’t be reused, pay extra for Ring Protect
Experience panoramic surveillance with the Wyze Cam Pan, which offers a 360-degree field of view and automatic motion tracking. The Wyze iPhone app provides seamless control, so you can keep tabs on every inch of your home, even from afar.
Wyze Cam Pan Pros: 360-degree pan and 180-degree tilt, two-way audio
Wyze Cam Pan Cons: USB powered, not a wireless camera, mixed customer reviews
The Blink line of cameras marks Amazon’s foray into the home security space. When it comes to protecting outside of your home, Blink Outdoor excels with its weatherproof design and long-lasting battery life. Have confidence knowing that your property has proper surveillance around its perimeter. Access a view of your home’s exterior at any time using Blink’s reliable iPhone app.
Blink Outdoor Pros: Weather resistant, wireless, two-way audio, works with Alexa
Blink Outdoor Cons: Motion detection is part of subscription plan, mixed customer service reviews
The EufyCam 2C distinguishes itself with the promise of zero monthly fees, a rarity in the home surveillance market. Its iPhone app is seamless, offering users intuitive control over their home security system from anywhere in the world. With features such as excellent night vision, customizable motion zones, and a remarkable battery life of up to 180 days on a single charge, the EufyCam 2C ensures your home is monitored effectively without the hassle of frequent maintenance.
eufyCam 2C Pros: No monthly fee built-in spotlight & night vision, weather resistant for outdoor use
eufyCam 2C Cons: Requires HomeBase 2, no expandable storage
Our Recommendation
At Alarm New England, our recommendation is the Alarm.com series.
We are Alarm.com installers and verified partners. We’ve done so because we believe in the product, on both the hardware and software side. The Alarm.com iPhone app is our top choice when it comes to convenience, reliability, and functionality.
iPhone app-controlled cameras are becoming the standard in the home security world.
It’s smart to invest in a robust, modern solution that ensures your home’s protection, even when you’re away. These top-notch security cameras are all great options to help give you that peace of mind.
When it comes to safeguarding your home and loved ones, nothing should be left to chance. A state-of-the-art home security system is more than just a set of sensors and alarms—it’s a meticulously crafted shield that ensures your peace of mind. In this ever-evolving realm of security technology, what makes a system truly exceptional? Let’s talk about the 6 characteristics of a world-class security system.
1. Custom-Made To Your Needs
No two homes are alike, and neither should their security systems be. It’s important to design a custom system that includes everything you need, and nothing you don’t.
2. Advanced Technology Designed To Serve You
A leading home security system leverages the latest technological advancements, incorporating smart automation to create a cohesive network. Mobile app integrations allow for real-time alerts and remote access, empowering homeowners with the ability to monitor and manage their home security from anywhere in the world.
3. Monitoring Around The Clock
Beyond passive defense, a top-tier security system provides proactive monitoring. This involves the use of a central monitoring station to keep an watchful eye and provide a proactive response in emergency situations. A proactive approach is critical in mitigating risks and ensuring a rapid response.
4. High Quality Components
The effectiveness of a home security system is directly tied to the quality of its components. High-resolution cameras, motion detectors, and reliable alarms are a must to provide comprehensive coverage. Quality hardware combined with sophisticated software results in top-notch performance and durability.
5. Easy-To-Use And Convenient
Accessibility is critical. State-of-the-art systems are equipped with intuitive interfaces that simplify the user experience. Whether it’s through a mobile app or voice commands and smart device integration, interacting with your security system should be straightforward and hassle-free.
6. End-To-End Encryption
In an era where data privacy is increasingly important, securing the transmission and storage of information is a necessity. Advanced security systems employ end-to-end encryption to protect your data from unauthorized access, preserving the confidentiality and integrity of your surveillance footage and personal details.
7. Professional Installation And Service Plans
Even the world’s best security system is rendered ineffective if it is not installed correctly. The best systems are professionally installed and maintained regularly. Be sure to choose a security provider that offers professional installation to ensure the system is working properly, and regular maintenance to keep it in good shape.
Don’t Wait, Get Better Security Today
Ready to elevate your home’s security? Contact Alarm New England today. Discover how our advanced security solutions can help, giving you and your loved ones the confidence that comes from knowing you are well protected.
Ready to elevate your home security? Contact us today for a personalized consultation.
When choosing between security companies in Connecticut, it can sometimes be hard to decide on the best option to protect your property. Connecticut residents have several security options, but three prominent players stand out: Standard Security Systems, Security Solutions Inc., and Alarm New England. Let’s delve into each company’s unique offerings, strengths, and differences.
Standard Security Systems Overview
Standard Security Systems has been serving Connecticut for over two decades. They offer a comprehensive range of security solutions, including alarm systems, surveillance cameras, and access control. Their focus is on residential and small business security.
Strengths
Reliable Monitoring: Standard Security Systems provides 24/7 professional monitoring from their secure facilities.
Customization: They tailor security packages to individual needs, ensuring flexibility.
Local Presence: Being a local company, they understand the specific security challenges faced by Connecticut residents.
Challenges
Selling Older Technology: While they cover the basics, their offerings may lack advanced features of some of the newest home and business security products on the market.
Security Solutions Inc. Overview
Security Solutions Inc. is a family-owned business with deep roots in Connecticut. They specialize in both residential and commercial security. Their services include alarm systems, video surveillance, and fire detection.
Strengths
Personalized Service: As a smaller company, they prioritize personalized attention and quick response times.
Expertise: Their experienced technicians ensure proper installation and maintenance.
Local Commitment: Security Solutions Inc. is deeply invested in the safety of their community.
Challenges
Limited Product and Pricing Transparency: It is unclear what type of technology Standard Security Inc. is using, and how much they charge for monthly monitoring. They may not offer cutting-edge technology found with larger providers.
Alarm New England Overview
Alarm New England is a regional leader in home and business security. They serve Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Their services encompass alarm systems, home automation, and video surveillance. This security company has 50 years of experience serving the New England region.
Strengths
Advanced Technology: Alarm New England offers smart home integration, mobile app control, and voice assistants.
Transparent Pricing: Their straightforward pricing model appeals to budget-conscious consumers.
Professional Installation: All of their technicians are Alarm New England employees, not contractors. Expert technicians ensure a seamless setup.
Challenges
Contractual Commitment: Some users may prefer month-to-month options, which Alarm New England doesn’t always provide.
Comparison Summary
Standard Security Systems caters to those seeking reliable, no-frills security.
Security Solutions Inc. excels in reliable, personalized service.
Alarm New England stands out for its technological prowess and transparent pricing.
In the end, the choice depends on your priorities: whether you value local expertise, cutting-edge technology, or a balance of both. Evaluate your needs, consider the pros and cons, and make an informed decision to protect what matters most.
Massachusetts may be one of the smallest states in the United States, but it has plenty to offer. It was one of the first places that the English settled when they first traveled to America, and it remains one of the six states of New England to this day.
Massachusetts is known for being one of the wealthiest states in the U.S. It first began as an agricultural state but switched to manufacturing, trade, and fishing. Due to the state’s rich cultural heritage, Massachusetts also has a booming tourism economy.
Some of the most reputable educational institutions in the world are in Massachusetts— like Harvard University. The state is among the most innovative and educated states in the U.S. Aside from education, Massachusetts is home to the New England Patriots, who have won the Super Bowl six times.
Whether you love a serene country location or a busy urban hub full of activities, the great state of Massachusetts has something for everybody. Not matter what your ideal way of life is, there is a Massachusetts town that will suit your desire. Let’s start with the best places in MA to raise a family.
Best Neighborhoods in Massachusetts for Families
Newtonville – Newton
By User:Magicpiano – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17546462
Newtonville is a family-friendly and liberal neighborhood located in Newton, MA. Most of the residents in this area are homeowners, and the population is around 8,000. It is home to some of the best public schools and is surrounded by a variety of social places such as parks and restaurants.
Amherst
By Jon Platek – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29536855
Amherst is in Hampshire County and has a population of 40,000 people. It was once rated as one of the best towns to raise children in. It is a college town and hosts three distinguished institutions, including the University of Massachusetts.
Because it is home to three major universities, Amherst is a safe place to raise a family. The town has great spots for outdoor activities, especially water sports for children. The schools in Amherst are also highly rated.
Bedford
By John Phelan – Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17129861
Bedford is an American historical hub located in Middlesex County. The Bedford flag is still raised today in Bedford’s free public library. A lot of people in this town own their homes. The area has a suburban feel to it and is an excellent place for young couples to settle and begin raising their families.
Bedford has fantastic restaurants and places to visit, such as museums. The schools have greatly improved, so if you have left the old city for greener pastures, it might be time to consider coming back.
Springfield
By Ironass – Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2258846
Springfield is the third largest city in Massachusetts. It is located along the Connecticut River in Hampden County. Because of the many innovations that came out of Springfield, it is also known as Hoop City, City of Homes, or the City of Firsts.
Just like Amherst, the city hosts some of the best higher education facilities. Housing costs are very affordable in Springfield and social spots, such as restaurants and outdoor activities, are nearby. The neighborhood is safe, and the people are liberal.
Lexington
By Daderot, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1781877
Lexington is one of the best suburbs in Boston to raise a family. It is located in Middlesex County and has a population of about 30,000. This small city is a treasured historical site because the battle of Lexington was fought here during the American Revolution.
Lexington is a diverse, prosperous town and has one of the best school districts in Massachusetts. Apart from historical sites, Lexington has a vibrant entertainment scene with a lot of restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy.
Brookline
By Pesotsky, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57663691
You’ll soon see that Brookline shows up multiple times on our list, and for good reason. It’s close enough to Boston to be convenient, but far enough outside the city to avoid the traffic and noise issues that come with living downtown. It’s another suburb near Boston located in Norfolk County. Most people in this town are homeowners. Brookline is a great place to start or raise a family because the area is safe and residents live in close proximity to the schools. Some great colleges are located in this town too.
Brookline has some great activities for kids, including the Puppet Showplace Theater and parks where children have plenty of room to play. President John F. Kennedy was born in Brookline. It is rich with art and culture, and it is not too far from Boston, where residents can go for the vibrant nightlife.
Best Towns Near Boston for Commuters
Maybe you’ve got a job in Boston but don’t want to pay the higher rent prices, or you want to be able to easily visit the city on the weekend. The rail and subway system in Massachusetts is a great way to avoid traffic and save on gas money— provided there are no delays. Below are some of the best Boston suburbs for commuters.
Woburn
Woburn is one of the most convenient Massachusetts towns to live in. It is located between routes 128 and 93, and the average commute time to Boston is about 24 minutes with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail. However, you don’t need to head into the city looking for fun or good food while living in Woburn. The town has the most social facilities per capita compared to other towns in the Boston area.
Cambridge
Cambridge is home to the most distinguished institutions of learning in Massachusetts: Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A lot of young professionals, graduate students, and academics live in this town. The MBTA red line is connected to Cambridge via Harvard Square, Central Square, and Kendall Square, so commuting to Boston takes takes half an hour or less.
Brookline
Tucked in between Allston and Roxbury, Brookline is just a few minutes drive away from most of the city. This attractive historical Boston suburb is packed with social activities for both the young and the old. It has a high percentage of young professionals living there, though rental costs are higher here. Lucky for them, the town is well connected to the MBTA via the Green Line, so commuters can easily get to a nearby train stop.
Wakefield
Wakefield is in Middlesex County and is a culturally diverse town with liberal people. The MBTA Commuter Rail passes through the center of the town, which is convenient for people who work in Boston or are just looking for a good time. The commute to downtown Boston takes about 22 minutes.
Waltham
This city is also in Middlesex County. Waltham is a multicultural town that a lot of young professionals opt to live in because it is well connected to the MBTA. The average commute time to Boston is about 23 minutes.
Melrose
Melrose is another Boston suburb that is great for commuters. The MBTA Commuter Rail passes through town, so getting to Boston takes about 20 minutes. The Melrose area is where most young working-class citizens prefer to live. It is a great place to start a family: Melrose has excellent schools and tons of outdoor family activities.
Medford
This suburb in Middlesex County mere minutes outside of Boston is the home of Tufts University. Medford is ranked as one of the best places to live in New England. Young people who are just entering the workforce will love this town.
Medford will soon be connected to Boston directly via the Green Line Extension, but for now residents must take a bus or walk to Davis Square in Somerville to hop on the Red Line if they want to head downtown. If you love outdoor activities, several hiking trails will let you get out in nature. Medford is a multicultural community, so food options are plenty as well.
Milton
Milton is one of the most prosperous Boston suburbs. This small town located in Norfolk County is the birthplace of the former president George H. W. Bush. Residents of this area are connected by the MBTA red line and are only 20 minutes away from Boston. Milton is a vibrant hub of entertainment that attracts a lot of young professionals.
What Part of Massachusetts is Best to Live for Retirement?
Retirement is the time most of us plan to give back to our communities and make up for lost time with our friends and family. And some people decide to make a big move from one state to another to enjoy their golden years.
If Massachusetts is on your list of possible retirement locations, here are some of the best places to retire in Massachusetts.
Hull
Hull is in Plymouth County on the south shore border of the state. It has some of the nicest beaches and enjoys cool weather even during the summer. Hull is a safe place to live in Massachusetts, and housing is affordable relative to Boston—the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,200.
The average age of people living in Hull is 52 years. Hull offers a lot of social activities that baby boomers can enjoy, such as walking or basking in the sun at the beaches.
North Adams
North Adams is one of the small cities in Massachusetts and is located in Berkshire County. Almost 17% of the people living in North Adams are retirees. The medical facilities are accessible, and the average housing costs are $750 per month. Another advantage of living here is that the property taxes are low.
You will enjoy shopping, museums, and excellent restaurants, among other activities, while living in North Adams.
Newburyport
Newburyport is a beautiful small town and suburb located in Essex County, about 2 hours drive from Boston. Most people here own their homes, and the average rent is $1,143. It is a charming historical town with beautiful scenery. Newburyport is a great place to meet new people and make new connections because of the buzzing tourism industry.
Activities to enjoy in North Shore include beautiful walks at the beach during sunsets, kayaking, and hiking, among others. The central town area has a lot of shops and spectacular restaurants as well.
Eastham
Eastham is a small suburban beach town located in Barnstable County. It’s very rural and has a few historical sites. It is a wonderful place if you want to be away from the city noises—its population is only 4,900. Average rent here is $1,000, and if you are looking to buy a home, $455,000 is the median price. Many people here are homeowners.
Top activities in Eastham are biking and hiking. If you are a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat because it is cooked fresh from the sea in Eastham.
North Falmouth
North Falmouth is a small suburban town in Barnstable County with a population of 2,850 people. A lot of people own their homes; average house prices start at $530,000. The average rent is $1,400.
This place has a lot of retirees. The town offers many activities, including shopping and walking at the beach, and has some superb restaurants to enjoy good food. Healthcare facilities are nearby as well. North Falmouth is a close-knit community.
West Yarmouth
West Yarmouth is another Barnstable County favorite for retirees. The Cape Cod beaches are wonderful here, and the weather is warmer than in other areas of the state. It is a great place if you are looking for a relaxing location. West Yarmouth has all sorts of entertainment available for people of all ages, and the community is very diverse.
Most people are homeowners, but the average rent is $1,350. The average home value is $280,000. The area is safe, and healthcare facilities are close.
Safest Towns in Massachusetts
Safety is paramount whether you are raising a family or you are on your own. You want to walk around the neighborhood at any time and not fear for your life or your kid’s life.
Massachusetts is known for having a lower crime rate than most states in the US, but taking precautions to keep your home safe — like installing a home security system — is always advisable no matter where you live. Here are some of the safest places to live in Massachusetts.
Norton
Norton is a small town in Bristol County with a population of about 20,000. It has one of the lowest crime rates according to FBI crime data. When it comes to violent crime and property crime, Norton is one of the top five safest cities in the state of Massachusetts.
The probability of being a victim of crime in Norton is 1 in 1046, making Norton one of the safest towns in Massachusetts to live in. It routinely ranks among the safest areas in the country according to FBI crime data.
Hopkinton
This small suburban town in Middlesex County has a population of about 17,000. It is one of the safest Massachusetts towns to live in. There has been no violent crime in the area within the last year, according to the available data.
Your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Hopkinton is 1 in 296. Its crime rate of 3 per 1,000 residents makes Hopkinton one of the safest communities in the United States.
Shrewsbury
Located in Worcester County, Shrewsbury is a safe town considering how big it is— it has a population of about 40,000. It has a violent crime rate of 0.08% for every 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 3.46% per 1,000 households. That’s not too bad for a relatively large town. It is definitely safe to buy a home and raise a family in Shrewsbury.
Franklin
Franklin is a relatively large town located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, and it has a population of about 33,500 people. This town is home to the first library in America, the Franklin Public Library. Benjamin Franklin donated books to this library.
This lovely city ranks as the fourth safest in Massachusetts. It has a violent crime rate of 0.27% and a property crime rate of 2.22% per 1,000.
Needham
Needham is a suburban town in Norfolk County. The total crime rate of this town is 6.6%, and the chance of being a victim of crime is 1 in every 153. The town has a population of 30,500 people. It is one of the safest cities in the United States with a 76% lower crime rate than the national average, and it’s 92% lower than the average Massachusetts crime rate.
Reading
Reading is a suburb in Middlesex County not far from Boston with a population of 25,800 people. The total crime rate in Reading in 65% lower than the average Massachusetts crime rate. The violent crime rate in Reading is significantly lower: it’s 91% lower than the Massachusetts average crime rate and 92% lower than the national average.
Hanover
Hanover is in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. It has a population of 14,500 people. It is safer than 79% of cities in the United States, and its violent crime rate per 1,000 residents is 0.34%. The property crime rate is 6.99% per 1,000 residents. This is a pretty safe town!
Westford
Westford is in Middlesex County. A lot of families live in this Boston suburb, which has a population of 24,700. Westford is safer than 94% of cities in the United States. Violent crime per 1,000 people is 0.34%, and property crime per 100 households is 3.08%. The chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Westford is 1 in every 2,701 people.
Where is the Most Affordable Place to Live in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States, even though it offers a lot in return.
A major factor that determines the cost of living in a particular area is the cost of housing. In Massachusetts, the closer you are to Boston, the more it will cost to rent or buy a house or apartment.
The average price of a home in Massachusetts is $390,000. The average monthly rent for a studio apartment and a four-bedroom house in Massachusetts are $1,139 to $2,167, respectively. The average annual pay for people living in Massachusetts is $67,432. This is higher than the average annual salary in the United States, which is $53,621. This indicates that salaries are generally higher in Massachusetts than in other cities in the US.
The consumer price index in Massachusetts is higher than the national average. In fact, it is 10.2% higher. In Massachusetts, the sales tax is 6.25%. This means that the daily costs of groceries and other foodstuffs is significantly higher than in other cities in the US.
Although the cost of living in Massachusetts is high, there are some affordable towns to live in.
You do not want to put down roots somewhere you will struggle to provide for your family. The advantage of Massachusetts is that the median household income in most cities is much higher than the national average. Regardless, it wouldn’t hurt to look for the cheapest place to live in Massachusetts.
Leominster
Leominster is a small town just one hour from Boston with a population of 40,000 people. It is one of the most affordable towns with the average house costs well below the national average at $251,000. The average income per household is $59,263.
Generally, the cost of living in Leominster is 13% lower than in Massachusetts as a whole. However, daily costs such as food, transport, and other expenses might be the same.
Franklin
What makes Franklin an affordable city to live in is the average household income of $101,980, which is higher than the national average. Housing costs are a bit high, but they’re not beyond reach. The town has a robust economy and offers a lot of job opportunities for people just moving to the community.
Methuen
Methuen is in Essex County. The population of this town is 48,000, and the average income per household is $71,392. This is higher than the national average. The average housing costs are at $282,500. This alone is enough to make you and your family consider moving to this town.
This little town is packed with several recreational facilities such as shopping areas, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The art and history is an attractive and interesting aspect of the town.
North Adams
North Adams has a population of about 14,000 people. The cost of living in this small town is 3% less than the national average. The average income per household is $38,800, and the average home costs are $149,500.
This small town has become a frequent destination for tourists who love art and history because North Adams hosts the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the largest museums in North America.
Palmer
Palmer is a small town of about 12,500 people located in Hampden County, Massachusetts. The cost of living in Palmer is 20% lower than in Massachusetts. The average income per household is the same as the national average at $55,343. Housing costs are at an average of $181,500. Palmer enjoys warm weather, and it is a very safe town to live in.
Gardner
Located in Worcester County, this city has a population of about 20,000 people. The home price to income ratio is 3-to-7 in Gardner. The average income per household is $46,410, and the average house costs are $173,200. Generally, the cost of living in Gardner is higher than the national average, but it is well below the Massachusetts average cost of living by 18%.
Agawam
Agawam is a lovely little town in Hampden County that has a population of 28,500 people. Housing is very affordable in this town, so it is worth considering this location if you’re looking to move to Massachusetts. It’s also where Six Flags New England is located.
The housing costs to income ratio is 3-to-7. The average income per household in this town is $60,201, and the median home value is at $220,300. The cost of living in Agawam is higher than the national average but lower than the Massachusetts average by 11% and 15%, respectively.
Pittsfield
Pittsfield is located in Berkshire County just 7 miles from the New York border. The area has a housing cost to income ratio of 3-to-7, and the average cost of a home is $173,100. The average household income is $46,871.
This is a quiet community with low crime rates; it was once rated one of the United States’ greenest cities. There are plenty of nearby mountains and hiking opportunities in Pittsfield, making it not only a cost-effective place to live but a beautiful one.
The Top Places To Live In Massachusetts
Recap – The Top Places to Live in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the most educated states in the US, and the quality of its healthcare is fantastic. Since the Massachusetts healthcare reform in 2006, almost all residents of Massachusetts have health insurance.
Couple this with many low-crime cities and towns, relatively short commutes, excellent retirement, and family suburbs, and it’s not hard to see why people love Massachusetts—though the higher cost of living can limit your options.
Either way, there is something for everyone in Massachusetts and every reason to become a resident of the Bay State. If you’d prefer to only visit New England during the summer and fall months, purchasing a vacation home in Massachusetts is not a bad idea, either.
The history of home security systems is rich and varied, stretching back over many years. Today, we might be familiar with home security systems boasting advanced technology and automation. But what we might not know is how it all started. Among the key figures in this journey is the home security system inventor, Marie Van Brittan Brown, whose invention in the 1960s laid the groundwork for the sophisticated systems we rely on today. Brown’s story is not just one of innovation but also of necessity, insight, and the desire to create a safer living environment.
Marie Van Brittan Brown was born on October 30, 1922, in Jamaica, Queens, New York. Living in a neighborhood with a high crime rate and slow police response times, Brown sought a way to feel safer in her own home. Working as a nurse, with irregular hours that often left her home alone at night, she was acutely aware of the vulnerabilities that came with her situation. This personal need for safety and security led her to conceive an idea that was revolutionary for its time.
In 1966, Brown and her husband, Albert Brown, an electronics technician, devised a system that would allow her not only to see who was at her door but also to communicate with them without opening it, and to alert authorities if necessary. This system was comprised of four peepholes, a camera, monitors, and a two-way microphone. The camera could be moved to look out of any one of the peepholes, allowing Brown to see who was outside at varying heights, including children. The images captured by the camera were then transmitted to a monitor inside the home. Additionally, a panic button was included to immediately alert the police if the homeowner felt threatened.
Marie Van Brittan Brown filed a patent for her invention in 1966, and it was granted in 1969. The patent described a system that provided a front door with a camera, monitors, and a two-way microphone. The revolutionary aspect of Brown’s invention was not just in allowing homeowners to see who was at their door without opening it, but also in its incorporation of a communication system and an alert mechanism to notify the police, which significantly enhanced home security.
Brown’s invention laid the foundational technology for the modern home security systems we use today, which include motion detectors, automatic police notification, and video surveillance. While technology has clearly evolved and expanded upon her initial concept, the principles behind Brown’s system remain at the core of home security. Today, smart home security systems integrate cameras, motion sensors, and internet connectivity to provide real-time surveillance, remote access, and instant alerts to homeowners and law enforcement.
Marie Van Brittan Brown’s contribution to home security is a testament to the power of innovation driven by personal need. Her work exemplifies how thoughtful, inventive solutions can create lasting changes that benefit countless individuals. Brown’s legacy is not only in the device she created but also in the sense of safety and security that her invention has provided to homes around the world. As we continue to develop and refine home security technology, it is important to remember the pioneering work of Marie Van Brittan Brown, whose vision and ingenuity have made an indelible mark on the field.
