Security is a major concern on Vancouver Island and choosing the best camera system to protect your business requires planning. Commercial security camera systems are an important investment for businesses of all sizes. They provide a vital layer of protection against theft, vandalism, and other security threats. However, not all CCTV systems (closed-circuit television) are created equal, and it’s important to carefully consider your options when selecting a system for your business.
CCTV systems come in a variety of sizes and capabilities and choosing the right one for your business can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what to look for in a good commercial security CCTV system, including key features, considerations, and benefits.
Camera quality and resolution
The quality of your CCTV footage is a critical consideration when selecting a commercial security CCTV system. Look for a system that offers high-definition (HD) or even ultra-high-definition (UHD) video resolution, as this will provide clearer and more detailed footage. Choosing the best camera system is especially important if you need to identify specific individuals or objects in the footage, as lower-quality video may not provide enough detail to do so. Just remember, the higher the quality, the more video storage will be required.
Coverage area
Before purchasing a CCTV system, you must assess the areas that need to be monitored. Thorn Security works with you to determine the right cameras to meet your needs and provide best placement. Consideration must be given to the angles and field of view the camera can provide. A wider viewing angle will allow you to capture more of your business premises with fewer cameras, reducing your overall installation costs. While a narrower view will provide greater detail within specific views.
Night Vision Capabilities
Many security threats occur outside of business hours, which is why night vision capabilities are a key feature to look for in a commercial security CCTV system. Infrared sensors can help cameras see in the dark, allowing you to monitor your business premises 24/7. This is especially important if your business operates around the clock or if you have valuable assets that need constant protection. Infrared cameras are not all created equal either, with different limits on the distances IR transmitters illuminate.
Recording and storage capabilities
The CCTV system should be able to record footage 24/7 and store it for a reasonable amount of time. The amount of storage you need will depend on coverage, the number of cameras, and the quality of the footage you require. It’s important to choose the best camera system with enough storage to ensure that you can access footage if an incident occurs. A week of stored video is often the minimum, while others require months or even years.
Remote viewing and access
Remote viewing capabilities allow you to access your CCTV footage from anywhere, at any time. This is especially useful if you need to monitor your business premises while you’re away, or if you want to keep an eye on multiple locations from a single location. Look for a system that offers remote viewing via a smartphone app or web portal, as this will give you greater flexibility and convenience.
Motion Detection
Motion detection is another important feature to look for in a commercial security CCTV system. Cameras with motion detection capabilities will automatically begin recording when they detect movement, which can help to conserve storage space and make it easier to find relevant footage. Additionally, we use motion detection to alert you to potential security threats via notifications in near real-time, allowing you to take action.
Video Analytics
Video analytics is a more advanced feature that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyze your CCTV footage. This can help to identify unusual behavior or patterns, such as a person or vehicle loitering in a specific area for an extended period of time. Video analytics is used to monitor customer traffic flow and identify areas of your business premises that require additional attention or resources. Analytics is also used to instantly separate whether movement is from people, animals, vehicle or drones. Indoors analytics is even used to estimate the age of individuals! These are very specific packages available as add-ons for the best in CCTV solutions.
Scalability
Scalability is an important consideration if you need to expand your security coverage over time. Look for a commercial security CCTV system that allows you to add new cameras or upgrade existing ones as needed.
Integration with other security products
A good CCTV system should be able to integrate with other security systems, such as access control and alarm systems. Integration can provide a more comprehensive security solution, allowing you to monitor and respond to security threats more effectively. Additionally, integration can help to streamline your security and reduce the likelihood of false alarms or other security issues
Power backup
A CCTV system that relies solely on the power supply of your business is vulnerable to power outages. A power backup system, such as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), ensures continued camera operation during a power outage. This is particularly important for businesses that require continuous monitoring, such as those in the healthcare, cannabis, and financial sectors.
Customer support and maintenance
A CCTV system is a long-term investment and may require ongoing maintenance and support. Choose a supplier like Thorn Security to ensure that the CCTV system continues to operate at peak performance. This will help to avoid downtime and ensure that the system is operational when you need it most.
Budget
Finally, when choosing the best camera system, you must consider your budget. The cost of CCTV systems varies widely, depending on the number of cameras required, the quality and the features included. Make sure to choose a system that fits your budget, but don’t skimp on quality or features. Remember that a good CCTV system is a long-term investment in the security of your business.
A good commercial security CCTV system can provide numerous benefits for businesses, including:
- Crime prevention: A deterrent to potential criminals, reducing the likelihood of theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities.
- Increased safety: Identify and mitigate potential safety hazards, such as slips and falls, fires, and other emergencies.
- 24/7 monitoring: Provide round-the-clock monitoring of a business, ensuring that any suspicious activity is captured and recorded.
- Evidence gathering: CCTV footage can be used to help identify suspects and support policing.
- Remote access: Giving business owners peace of mind and the ability to check in on their property from anywhere.
- Cost-effective: Investing in a good CCTV system is cost-effective in the long run, reducing losses from theft and damage.
- Improved productivity: CCTV cameras can help to improve employee productivity by discouraging time wasting.
- Enhanced customer service: Providing businesses awareness to respond to customer needs and concerns in real-time.
You only get one chance to capture the video captures you need. Thorn Security would gladly meet onsite to discuss your needs and the best solutions available within your budget constraints.
