Choosing the Right CCTV Systems for Your Needs

Onsite surveillance is one of the most valuable types of security you can provide for your place of business or your home. CCTV systems with security cameras can provide any level of security surveillance that your property needs. It just takes a little research to choose the right CCTV cameras and system to suit your needs. These tips on designing a CCTV security system and choosing security cameras and equipment can help you make the best choices for your property.

Determine where you need surveillance. One of the most important choices you’ll make is how many and what type of CCTV cameras you’ll need for your full system. Your first step in deciding the number of surveillance cameras you’ll need is deciding what you want to be able to watch.

In a home, you should have a camera covering the main entry points to your home – the front and back doors – as well as your driveway and any areas of your home that our out of sight from the windows.

In a business, you’ll want security cameras transmitting the view from any areas of the store or facility that aren’t observable from the counter. In addition, you should have a security camera trained on the point of sale, not so much to keep your employees under surveillance as to protect them from customer malfeasance. A security camera recording all transactions can provide valuable evidence if the drawer is short or a customer makes an accusation of mistreatment.

Decide whether you want to record or just watch. The increasing use of PC-based CCTV security systems makes it easier than ever to record surveillance for later perusal or to save in case it’s needed. Whether you choose a DVR security system or a PC-based system, you’ll find it’s considerably easier to record and store security footage than it used to be to store VHS tapes with security footage on them.

Decide whether you want a wired analog system or a wireless/network-based system. Each type of CCTV security system has its own advantages. Wireless security cameras offer flexibility and the ability to rearrange your security system configuration at need. Wired systems generally have better recording and better resolution than most wireless cameras. Depending on the systems and components you choose, you may be able to put together a hybrid system that will work with both wired and wireless security cameras.

Consider your budget. CCTV systems range in price from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. If you shop carefully, you’ll find security cameras, DVRs and other CCTV system components that fit your budget and your needs perfectly.