How to Use CCTV Systems Effectively

Security systems based on closed circuit television, often abbreviated CCTV, are an effective way to monitor your home or business and ensure the safety of your employees, family and customers. You can choose CCTV systems in many different price ranges, depending on the options you choose for your security system. You can customize your security system to suit your needs and provide more coverage and security, often without compromising privacy. The only limit is the amount that you’re willing to pay for the benefits of a closed circuit system.

CCTV includes monitoring equipment, cameras and recording devices put together in varying configurations. The most elaborate systems can cover every square inch of your property and allow you to monitor it 24/7 via wireless cameras, banks of color monitors and digital recorders that save every moment of coverage. Few people need that level of security coverage for their business or home. How do you decide where and how to deploy your security system?

One of the first steps in choosing the best CCTV security system for you is determining your minimum needs. At the very least, you’ll want a camera set to monitor the main entry points to your property, though ideally, you should place a camera at each entry point, including emergency exits and loading docks. If you have a parking area, you should also consider a camera there to ensure that your employees have a safe, monitored area to park their cars, and that the parking area doesn’t become a gathering place for mischief makers.

Finally, many employers place cameras where they can monitor cash registers or other points of sale, as well as any part of a retail establishment that can’t be seen and monitored by clerks from their usual station.

In addition to cameras, you need to decide on the monitoring equipment you need. A small corner store may be fully served by a single monitor mounted where the clerk on duty can keep an eye on the back door and parking lot. If you set the cameras to cycle on a loop, one person can have an eye on all of your sensitive areas every two to five minutes. Larger establishments with more complex needs may invest in an entire monitoring room with one or more employees whose only responsibility is to monitor the feeds from the cameras.

CCTV systems are a great boon for any business or home owner who is serious about security, but it’s important to know what you need and what’s available. Do your research and a full evaluation of your security needs before you shop and you’ll be sure to get the best system for your specific needs.