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How to Choose a Video Surveillance System for Business

Updated on Sep 28, 2021 by
2.4k

Video surveillance is one of the rapidly growing sectors in the security industry, thanks to new technologies and the dropping prices of video surveillance systems. Nowadays, almost every business has a set of security cameras strategically placed within the premises to capture real-time events.

Older technology is being phased out, and companies are now investing in cloud-based security surveillance cameras. The latter offers several advantages from increased performance, and remote accessibility to increased functionalities – e.g., detection technology and video analytics.

The Basics of Video Surveillance Systems and Their Available Options

A video surveillance system comprises cameras, display units, and recording devices. These components work together to monitor the activities or behaviors of people and objects, display the images, and store them for future reference.

FS Security Camera

The choice of cameras ranges from traditional analog types to the most modern IP cameras and digital cameras. Display units and storage devices are available in different designs, and you can pick one that best suits your video surveillance needs.

When buying a video surveillance system, there are several factors you need to consider. We’ve rounded up the most critical aspects that will help narrow down your options so that you can choose the best surveillance system for your business. Here are some of them:

The Area to Be Monitored

Depending on the type of business, you may need to install CCTV cameras both indoors and outdoors. Here, you can choose dual-purpose cameras or pick indoor and outdoor designs separately. The type of environment will also determine how robust and suitable the camera should be. For example, in extremely cold climates, you may need a design with sensors and an in-built heater to ensure optimum operation all year long. Similarly, in areas such as factories or kitchen restaurants where smoke or grease is inevitable, the camera types should be chosen to suit these conditions.

The location you want to monitor, to some extent, will also determine whether to use a hidden or an obvious camera. When monitoring extensive areas, Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) cameras are more desirable since you’ll only need fewer cameras.

Image Clarity and Quality

Not all the spaces within your business need high-resolution cameras. Before making up your mind about the cameras to buy, always assess your business spaces with the help of an independent consultant. The parking lot and wide retail spaces may require high-resolution cameras compared to smaller offices and reception areas. This will help you spend your money effectively.

Consider the Available Technologies

The video surveillance market is flooded with new technologies that can be confusing for a first-time buyer. Not all these technologies will make greater sense for your business, so you need to know what you want before comparing the available options. Here are some of the factors to consider as far as technologies are concerned:

  • Lighting conditions – some cameras allow for quality images and videos in a range of lighting conditions. Surveillance cameras with light filtering technology such as artificial illuminators and IR filters can amplify/reduce the amount of light reaching the sensors, creating good quality images during the day and night.

  • Detection technology – Some advanced cameras come with facial recognition and smart tracking capabilities, notifying business owners in real-time about any motion or activities happening within the premises.

  • Wireless technology – Wireless surveillance systems are among the most recent advancements in the security industry that offer several benefits. These cameras are cost-effective, flexible, and highly scalable.

  • Audio integration – Some video surveillance systems allow for audio integration, making it possible to hear and even speak with potential perpetrators. This can also work as an independent detection method used to trigger alarms or recordings whenever audio passes a predetermined threshold.

FS Security Camera

Final Comments

When choosing a video surveillance system, making up your mind on the right set of cameras is often a daunting experience. The type of camera will often determine the overall cost, the ease of installation, and even the integration options.

If you lean more on tech-savvy products, a wireless surveillance system with cloud-based security solutions would be your ultimate pick. Here, you want to consider not only the cost of the products but also the quality and reliability of customer service and support.

However, if on-premises security systems work for you, ensure that performance, scalability, and ease of use aren’t compromised.

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