CCTV System Installation
If you’re concerned about the security of your home or commercial premises, a new CCTV security system could help to deter criminals, prevent crime and help to bring perpetrators to justice in the event of an incident.
- If you are simply after a quote, call the team on 0800 211 8310 today
CCTV Systems Installation – Your Options
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Security camera technology has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, and there are systems available to suit all requirements and budgets.
Of course, there’s no such thing as a “one size fits all” approach to CCTV camera installation. For example, the size and shape of your property will dictate how many cameras you will need, and the sensitivity of your operation will determine the type of cameras you will need (for example, infrared cameras for night-time image capture). These are just some of the considerations to take into account when planning CCTV installation – and we’ll look at the rest in detail below.
CCTV security system components: what you’ll need
While CCTV systems can seem complex, it’s thankfully not too difficult to get the right setup in place. The basic CCTV security system consists of:
- Security cameras
- Cabling or wiring
- Network Video Recorder (NVR)
- Storage (hard disk)
- How many cameras will I need?
Ultimately, your own peace of mind will dictate how many CCTV cameras you will need. For a domestic CCTV system, you’re unlikely to want to have CCTV spying on every room in the house. Instead, you might be comfortable simply having outward-facing CCTV to cover the exterior of your home and any entry points.
If you’re installing a commercial CCTV system to protect your business, you may want to install cameras on sensitive areas (such as stock storage areas or rooms where money/valuables are kept). It makes sense to make a list of what you need to protect, where your business is vulnerable to entry, and how to best surveil these areas. It might even be helpful to discuss this with a CCTV installation specialist.
Cable routing for CCTV systems
Wireless camera systems are becoming increasingly popular throughout the home. However, powerful, reliable and demanding commercial CCTV systems will typically require structured cabling throughout the walls of the premises. The size and shape of your property could dictate where you can and cannot place cable-connected cameras, although a good commercial installer should be able to meet your requirements in terms of cable placement.
What CCTV cameras do I need?
The types of camera you choose will have a huge impact on the effectiveness of your CCTV system. There are many different types of camera available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to make an informed decision on how to best protect your premises – in most instances, you may want to mix-and-match the following types of cameras, dependent on each area you want to cover:
Bullet cameras:
These linear security cameras focus on a specific direction or area of your premises. Bullet cameras are available with night vision and infrared features for exterior surveillance, and have great zoom and range capabilities.
Dome cameras:
If you want a better field of view, choose a dome camera. These cameras are perfect for retail premises, hotels and restaurants. They are small, subtle and less visibly obtrusive than bullet cameras.
Turret cameras:
Turret cameras are perfect for warehouse surveillance, as they allow the user to regularly redirect the field of view via a ball-and-socket joint.
PTZ cameras:
The clue is in the name: Pan Tilt Zoom cameras can be remotely aimed using an app or joystick. These are perfect for real-time surveillance (a primary application would be for a security guard to remotely keep an eye on potential shoplifters).
While these are some of the most popular types of CCTV camera available, your property might also benefit from doorbell cameras, sensor cameras and fisheye cameras, too.
Ultimately, the type of building you’re protecting will dictate what sort of cameras and overall system you’re going to need. It might be worthwhile speaking to a CCTV installation engineer to discuss your requirements.
Organising Your Own Installation of a CCTV System
You might want to undertake your own domestic or commercial CCTV system installation. However, this could prove challenging depending on the scale of your system and whether it requires cabling.
It’s worth remembering that an improperly installed CCTV system is practically worthless as a security tool, as it won’t provide adequate protection. If you’re unsure of how to install a CCTV system yourself, the best bet is to hire a professional security camera installation team to ensure that your property is correctly covered.
What is a Complete CCTV System Made Up Of?
Many people assume that just CCTV is just cameras but there are other elements that make up a complete system. We take a look at what comprises a complete CCTV system.
Cameras
The most obvious part of any CCTV system, the cameras capture images and also provide an effective visual deterrent to potential burglars and intruders. There are a wide range of cameras all suitable for different circumstances including:
- IPTV cameras
- Dome cameras
- Bullet cameras
- Infra red cameras
Cables
The cables that run from the cameras to the DVR (digital video recorder) have two functions. Firstly they supply them with power. No power to the CCTV cameras, no images. Secondly, they transfer the live images back to the DVR.
DVR (Digital Video Recorder)
The very heart of the CCTV system, the DVR takes all of the camera inputs and puts them onto the viewing screen and also stores the images and footage for later viewing. Late models support remote access over the internet which means you can access your CCTV from anywhere in the world.
If you would like more information on CCTV installation, why not get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements – Call us on 0800 211 8310 today.