Top 5 Tips for Installing Business Security Cameras
When it comes to protecting your business from theft, vandalism, and misconduct, installing business security cameras is a great place to start. Just the appearance of security cameras alone can dramatically reduce crime—but isn’t it better to know that you’re getting the most out of your CCTV security system for optimized video surveillance? In this article, we will look at the top 5 tips to know if your business security cameras are installed correctly so you can get the most out of your investment.
Are Your Business Security Cameras Installed Correctly?
Whether you opt to install your business security cameras yourself or go through professionals like Sentry Surveillance, there are a few pointers you should keep in mind during the process to make sure you’re getting the most out of your CCTV system. Keep the following tips in mind when it comes time to install your business security cameras to maximize the benefits of your investment:
- Come up with a plan.
Now is the time to pull out your business’ blueprint or sketch up a quick floorplan if you don’t have one. Be especially mindful of covering potential points of entry like windows and doors. Consider internal cameras to go with external cameras for maximum coverage. Make sure that your whole business is covered and that professionals walk around the circumference of your property before offering you a quote. - Choose the right camera for each surveillance area.
Depending on your circumstances, this may mean getting more than one different kind of camera to best suit the needs of your business. There are many different kinds of security cameras on the market today, each with distinct benefits and downsides. Ask a professional which type of camera is best for your needs to maximize coverage while minimizing cost or opportunity for vandalism. Keep in mind some cameras are more aggressive-looking (great for deterring crime) while others are more subtle—so weigh the pros and cons for each kind. - Adjust camera position appropriately.
Let’s face it: mistakes happen. Before you decide that the installation process is complete, check and make sure the cameras are in proper positioning by viewing their visuals on a monitor. Know the range each camera is capable of, so you know how to best capture the scope of your security needs. Ask professional business security camera installers to stay and make sure the CCTV system adequately covers high security areas before leaving. Ensure cameras are placed high and angled downwards for best results—7 feet or higher is optimal! - Decide how you will be storing video data.
There are two primary ways data is stored for business security cameras: online in the cloud, or on a physical hard drive. One benefit of storing video surveillance data in the cloud is that it can be accessed anytime, anywhere the business owner has access to the internet. This makes storing massive amounts of data simpler than opting for physical backups—but this form of storing surveillance data is typically more costly than a hard drive. Before making the decision of which form of data storage you will be using, decide how much data storage you will need to keep on hand; for example, keeping 30 days’ worth of footage is common for many business owners. - Upgrade your internet service.
When it comes time to install your business security cameras, it’s wise to make sure your internet is capable of keeping up with your cameras’ messages. Security cameras use between 1080p to 4K pixels—the higher the pixel count, the more bandwidth required. Keep in mind you will need fast video upload speed should you plan to send video data to the cloud, so be prepared to include an internet upgrade in the cost of your CCTV security system installation.
Business Security Camera Installations
When it comes to entrusting your business with a CCTV system, it’s best to make sure you are thinking through the process; from pre-installation planning to post-installation monthly internet fees, optimizing your security system takes some consideration for best results. In most cases, it’s best to consider going through a professional CCTV security system installation service like Sentry Surveillance, so you don’t have to do all that research on camera, cable, and internet specs.
Thinking about hiring professionals to install your business security cameras? Contact Sentry Surveillance today for a quote!
