Complete Guide on How to Choose the Right Camera System For Your Business

Secure Alarms Inc Techs Reveal How to Design A Perfect Video Surveillance System For Your Commercial Property

How to Choose Camera System for Business

If you are a business owner looking to set up new infrastructure for your business, or to update the existing infrastructure, the business security camera system is one of the crucial elements in protection of your assets, whether it’s small, medium, or large. Even though it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, video surveillance is imperative if you want to protect your property and remain profitable. Today, security camera systems are exceptionally smart, with remarkable properties, making them more efficient than ever. They are a great tool for preventing crimes and maintaining a high safety level.

Secure Alarms Inc team wrote this guide based on our 30-year experience in installing, repairing, and maintaining camera systems for businesses in the Baltimore area. In this essential guide, you will find important information on the difference between small businesses and large corporations’ requirements. You will also learn more about their major components, types of cameras, how to assess your business’s needs, camera features, things to consider before purchase, installation considerations, benefits, and so on.

1. What Is A Business Security Video System?

Let’s first take a look at what a business security video system is, before moving on to how to choose the one for your industry. A video security system is a powerful surveillance network that consists of cameras and hardware and software components. The main elements are cameras, data storage, video analytics, and internet connection.

Camera units

Security cameras are the foundation of the entire system. The majority of commercial and industrial sites need video surveillance. The same is true for offices and office buildings, schools, universities, college campuses, retail stores, dealerships, government buildings, and more. However, beyond security cameras, you need to buy a few more essential hardware and software pieces in order to complete the infrastructure.

Storage

Data storage Some cameras are manufactured with storage in them, although that type of storage is typically very limited. On the other hand, some cameras have cloud storage, which is an ideal solution if you want to achieve zero downtime, good connection, and enough bandwidth to store data on DVR (digital video recorder) or NVR (network video recorder). All of these storage solutions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your industry. When it comes to how long you can store data, you will also have multiple options (15 days, 30 days, 90 days, or longer).

Internet

Internet connection is a very important component, as it serves to add functionality to your surveillance infrastructure by enabling remote backup, remote camera access, automatic software updates, health checks, etc.

Analytics & Real-Time Notifications

Video analytics provides useful insights into enhanced operations and security of your commercial property. With video analytics you can be notified when an unauthorized person enters the premises, audit company policy compliance, motion search, identify retraining opportunities among the employees, etc.

2. Figure Out The Type Of Business Camera You Need

After you have familiarized yourself with all the elements of the surveillance system, it is time to learn about different types of cameras. Technological development has brought us a variety of different types to choose from. The two primary categories are Internet Protocol (IP) and analog.

Traditional analog cameras are black, white, or gray, with lenses in the shape of an orb. They can typically be seen in regular businesses. They are easily installed, and they store data by recording images to a video recorder, which is then sent through a Digital Video Recorder (DVR).

Closed-circuit television (CCTV)

Closed-circuit television is the opposite of broadcast television, since it transmits video footage to a very small numbers of places (a security office, for example) and it is typically used with video surveillance.

Business CCTV cameras are typically connected to the internet in order to be seen remotely by managers or owners who are located off premises.

Transport video interface (TVI)

Transport video interface transmits analog footage through a coaxial cable. This type of technology serves to transfer analog cameras into the realm of high definition. Another benefit of TVI is that it provides a longer wired range (up to 900 ft).

Bullet cameras

Bullet (“lipstick”) cameras are small in size, easy to install, and are less noticeable. You can install them indoor or outdoor and they can be integrated for remote access. The downside is that they are less resistant to vandalism compared to other types, and some features cannot be adjusted remotely but manually only.

Turret cameras

Also known as “eyeball” cameras, they offer quality imagery with infrared capabilities. They can be positioned vertically or horizontally. However, they are less vandal-proof than dome cameras, for example, and are not equipped with SD card inside.

Internet protocol (IP)

IP cameras connect to a network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and transmit data digitally to a server. They are easy to install and to connect to other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptop, and PCs. They can also easily be extended without adding many NVRs (network video recorders). In order to ensure complete compatibility, it is advisable to consult with professional business security camera installers. The cons include bandwidth requirements, additional accessories, and increased risk of security breaches. Typically, they are used in industrial facilities, shopping malls, business offices, and retail stores.

Dome cameras

As the name implies, these cameras are encased with a dome and they have many superior features, like exceptional coverage, high resolution, night vision, weatherproof, vandal resistant, and a sturdy base. The downside is that it has a fixed viewing angle that can be adjusted only manually. Businesses that could install dome cameras are restaurants, hotels, health facilities, and any other building that needs outside coverage.

PTZ cameras

Pan-tilt-zoom cameras are designed so that they can tilt up and down, and swivel left to right. They are able to zoom in and zoom out, have remote access, and motion auto-tracking properties. The only downside is that the price is not as affordable. Typically, business that use PTZ cameras are storage facilities, warehouses, loading docks, etc.

360 degree (fisheye)

Fisheye cameras have wide-angle lenses, great coverage, panoramic views (180 and 360 degrees), night vision, and HD resolution. This makes them great options for businesses, such as warehouses, parking lots, hallways, or manufacturing facilities. The challenge is that the image is warped and you need special software to flatten them out.

License plate recognition (LPR)

Ai-driven LPR feature detects and reads license plates which enables you (or the authorities) to identify vehicles faster. Exceptional features like multi-camera playback and fuzzy matching capabilities made LPRs in high demand. These cameras can be used for car washes, garages, parking lots, restricted or gated areas. The cons involve software compatibility, licensing, and data storage limitation.

4K cameras

With 4K image resolution, these cameras record images with superior quality, meaning you will be able to zoom in without reducing the quality of the footage. Specifications include infrared filter, optical zoom, HDR, motion detection, and cloud storage. Industries and businesses that could benefit from these types of cameras include retail stores, shopping malls, educational and governmental facilities.

3. Identify Your Ideal Storage Technology

Some of the best technologies for video storage include:

Digital video recorder (DVR)

Digital video recorders capture footage in digital format through analog or IP recorder. Some of the benefits of DVRs are possibility of search by date or time, as well as analytics monitoring. Furthermore, they are cheaper than other options, are easier to integrate into the network, and can work with existing cabling (coaxal). The disadvantage is that it can only be connected to several cameras and require more cabling.

Hybrid video recorders (HVR)

HVRs can be integrated into the network that has analog cameras or certain IP cameras and can be monitored remotely. The downside is that they don’t support a majority of higher resolution cameras (1080p and higher). They cost more than DVRs and need more equipment to set up.

Network video recorders (NVR)

Network video recorders have a fantastic ability to record videos at the camera itself. This is a software type of recorder that saves data in digital format and it doesn’t even need to be connected directly to the camera. You only need to have it connected to the same LAN as IP cameras. Other benefits include things like high-definition footage, and no need PoE port support. There aren’t many cons to network video recorders. The network needs to have enough bandwidth in order for it to function properly, as well as limited scalability.

Video management software (VMS) system

VMS enables you to add older or existing cameras to your network by using video encoders. VMS is a perfect solution for business owners who are planning on expanding to several locations or plan to add more cameras over time. With great scalability, integration capabilities, analytics, and exceptional performances, it tops the list as the one with the most benefits. The disadvantage would be the price, as it is the most expensive option.

4. Camera Features

With the latest advancements in technology, cameras systems for businesses offer highly advanced features and cutting-edge properties. If you are a business owner, it can be a challenge to pick the right features for your industry’s requirements. Every business has different needs, but some of the most important features that guarantee scalability, efficiency, and security are the following:

HD video capture
remote access
night vision
two-way audio
emergency connectivity
video management system (VMS) software
motion activation
LPR
triggered activation
wide dynamic range
reliable storage solutions
low bandwidth requirements
data security
easy maintenance

In order to find the most suitable combination of features for your business, speak to a video surveillance specialist in your area.

5. Assessing Your Business Requirements

Before picking the camera system for your business, make sure you evaluate your needs and consider the following:

Type of business and industry - retail stores should opt for face recognition features, while offices can benefit from PTZ cameras.
Security requirements – consider whether you need indoor, outdoor, night vision, remote viewing, discrete, visible, etc.
The size of your business and the number of properties – small businesses will typically need one or two cameras, while larger corporations need multiple to cover the entire property.
Budget – business owners with a limited budget might save money by purchasing a lower-resolution camera system.

6. Professional Installation or DIY Installation

If you own a small business or a small property and don’t have a lot of areas that need to be monitored, you may install your surveillance system yourself. However, if you own a company that needs a more complex setup and multiple pieces of equipment, it is recommended to hire professionals like Secure Alarms Inc, to manage the installation.

7. The Benefits Of Video Surveillance Systems To Look For

Below, we bring you a list of some of the benefits a video surveillance system can have to your business.

Enhanced safety - The number one advantage is providing enhanced protection to your staff, clients, vendors, suppliers, partners, and anyone else you work with. Not only will it protect you against crimes such as theft or trespassing, but it will also give you a chance to make sure safety compliance is met (for instance, exits are cleared), or that the regulations and rules of the company are strictly followed (no access to restricted areas to non-personnel).
Remote video monitoring - By monitoring the premises remotely, you can better supervise all of your properties, wherever you are. Whether you are on the road, in your head office, or at home, you will be able to monitor all your sites.
Document events - When you store data (footage) and retrieve important recordings, it helps you improve your case management process. Certain providers have platforms you can use to send relevant recordings to managers, insurance companies, or the authorities. For instance, footage of stealing from a cash register can be sent to police to help with the investigation, and the insurance company can use the data received to expedite the payment. Furthermore, recordings can be used to praise the employees for a job well done.
Notifications and alerts - are another fantastic feature that allows you to monitor what is happening in real-time on the premises. Some systems send notifications when there is motion outside business hours, or when unauthorized employees enter sensitive areas, for example. Not only does it improve your perimeter security, but it also gives you a chance to determine whether it’s a real threat and you need to call emergencies or it’s a false alarm. For companies like car dealerships, having a video alarm is significantly more effective and useful than standard panel alarms.
Inventory stock monitoring Strategically placed business security cameras along with video analytics can help you easily detect theft, shrinkages of inventory, or other forms of crime.

8. How Much Does It Cost?

The price of the video surveillance system is based on several important factors including the size of your business. Things like the size and number of your commercial properties will determine how many pieces of surveillance equipment you will need, what type of storage you require, what features you need, and so on. For an accurate quote you need to advise with a security company.

Secure Alarms: #1 Business Security System Installation, Serving Baltimore City and Baltimore County

Secure Alarms Inc. is a company that specializes in commercial security system installation, maintenance and repair, serving business and residential customers in Baltimore, MD, D.C., VA and S. PA. We provide services for all types of businesses, including offices, dealerships, hospitality sector, government facilities, gated areas, retail, warehouses, and so on. Our company has a wide range of the latest technology equipment from top-rated manufacturers, like Hikvision, Avycon, and Nuvico. Our team of specialists has 30 years of experience and practice in installing all types of camera systems for commercial properties. With our knowledge and helpful advice, you will accomplish an upgraded level of protection and achieve your security goals for your business. For a free quote, call us at 410.356.2009 or fill out our contact form.