CCTV camera surveillance systems have become increasingly common for businesses and industries across the globe. It offers a fully automated, sophisticated security system that can be monitored from remote locations with video recording options.
But it can be daunting to choose a CCTV system that is right for your business amidst the plethora of choices available in the market. It must:
- Be tailored to your business security needs
- Fit your budget
- Be flexible and scalable to adjust future expansion requirements
- Have structured data cabling for long and short distance monitoring
And should be designed and installed for optimum coverage and protection. Since CCTV camera installation is an essential but high-cost investment, research and the services of a reputable data cabling company are vital to its successful implementation.
We’ve compiled a list of things you need to know before going for a CCTV installation. It will help you enjoy the multitude of benefits that come with a high-end security camera system. They include:
CCTV Camera Type
One of the most important things to consider before getting business security camera installation is the camera. There are two types of cameras in a CCTV system, IP and Analogue.
Internet Protocol (IP) cameras digitally transmit signals and data over a network, whereas analogue cameras use a coaxial cable to send the data to a Digital Video Recorder. The analogue camera is the traditional counterpart to IP cameras with limited functions and capabilities. The main difference between them is that IP cameras record the video digitally, negating the need to convert the data through a DVR. That makes for simple installation with fewer wires, routers and modems.
IP cameras are high resolution with HD video quality and work better for long-range monitoring. They can be connected to a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch for power to transmit data to your NVR (Network Video Recorders). Analogue cameras need a low voltage power cable to power them.
Even though the cost of IP is higher, analogue cameras require a more complicated setup and higher installation costs because of extra equipment and cabling. You can even opt for a combination of the two to balance your cost and security needs.
Other things to keep in mind are camera positioning, mounted or dome and rotation capabilities. Modern CCTV systems also offer motion sensors and night coverage cameras.
Location and Coverage
Your CCTV system cost will primarily depend on the number of cameras you need and their coverage capabilities. The technician who’s installing your CCTV system will work with you to locate the areas that need the most stringent monitoring and what types of cameras should be installed there.
Recording and Storage Hardware
As discussed above, IP cameras are compatible with NVRs and can be accessed from remote locations. They can be connected to cloud systems for improved storage with automatic updates and security alarms. Both IP and analogue systems also have hard drive storage. If you need your recorded footage to be stored for more than 30 days, you will require a larger storage capacity.
Structured Data Cabling
IP CCTV systems work best with structured data cabling. It offers better scalability options with improved efficiency and effectiveness. Analogue systems don’t perform well over distances, and the coaxial cabling cost can stack up during installation. Look into hiring an expert data cabling company when installing a modern CCTV security system to get a proper cabling infrastructure.
Legalities
Commercial properties and public areas cannot record without obtaining permission from the relevant authorities. Before investing in a CCTV system, look into the legalities regarding surveillance devices such as privacy laws and legal notifications regulations.
A CCTV surveillance system not only gives your organisation an enhanced security system but also allows you to overlook your employees and business operations. It gives you solid evidence in case of theft or internal staff conflicts. It can be customised to your exact requirements with several cameras for a small to medium-size business or more for multiple locations.
Are you looking for a CCTV installation service near you?
HE Technology provides expert electrical, communications and security solutions to businesses in Perth. We have over 20 years of experience streamlining security systems and infrastructure and CCTV installations.