Choosing the Best CCTV System for Your Needs

As the cost of CCTV systems has come down, more and more people are choosing to install CCTV security in their homes and small businesses. There are many different types of security camera and CCTV recording systems, each of them best suited for different types of applications. Choosing the right system for your needs requires knowing your expectations and understanding a little bit about the capabilities of various types of surveillance camera systems.

Do You Want Surveillance or Security?

Surveillance camera and security camera are often used interchangeably, but there’s a fine point of difference. If you want to keep an eye on things going on in a location, you want a surveillance camera. CCTV cameras used for surveillance may be hidden or obvious. Generally, though, if you want a security system that provides a deterrent, you’ll want to choose a security camera and CCTV setup that you can set up in plain view. Most burglars will avoid a home or business that is obviously protected by a security system.

Will Your Security Camera Be Indoors or Outdoors?

If the area you want to cover is outdoors, such as your driveway, parking lot or back yard, you’ll want to choose a camera with a weatherproof housing. You’ll probably also want a security camera with the capability of recording in low light situations, or a camera with infrared capabilities.

Do You Want Real-time Surveillance, Recording or Both?

CCTV systems with DVRs or hard drives can hold a great deal more data than old-fashioned videotape security systems. There are many different configurations for cameras and DVRs, as well as many different types of software you can choose to control your security camera and recording equipment. Be sure to choose components that are compatible with each other.

Will You Be Watching a Small Area or a Larger One?

A fixed security camera will work fine if you’re focusing on one small area and don’t need to change your view at all. If you want to cover a wider area or want to be able to zoom in or out, you’ll want to choose a PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) surveillance camera to give you more options for surveillance.

Wireless or Wired?

Wireless systems are easier to install and deploy and more versatile than most wired systems. Wired systems are also usually more expensive than wireless or IP-based CCTV systems. On the other hand, wired CCTV systems are more secure and less prone to being hacked.

Choosing the right CCTV system can reduce your insurance premiums and increase your security. Take the time to shop carefully and find the best CCTV camera for your needs.