How to Save Money on CCTV Systems

CCTV systems may be worth their weight in gold when it comes to providing peace of mind, reducing shrinkage and increasing your security, but if you’re on a budget, you’re on a budget. While it used to be a given that you’d spend a lot when buying a CCTV security system, improvements in technology have brought the price of CCTV systems into the affordable range for most homeowners and small business owners. Still, there are ways that you can save money when choosing the components, security camera, DVR and wiring for your security system.

Functionality

We’ve all seen the neat things that a CCTV security system can do on the TV crime shows. A high tech system can allow you to read a license plate from a reflection in a window across the street, right? High end CCTV systems can send you a text message when someone breaks into your home. They can predict crimes by analyzing behavior patterns – but those functions cost money – a lot of money. One of the best ways to save money on a CCTV security system is to only purchase one with the functionality that really matters to you. If all you need is a camera to see the front door, why should you pay for more?

Monitor

Back in TV Land, all CCTV systems are monitored by a full bank of monitors and at least one full-time person watching it all. In reality, most people don’t monitor their CCTV camera feeds 24/7. In fact, they may only step in to view the monitor if they know something is happening. If you don’t need a separate monitor, don’t pay for one. And if you do, you may actually have a suitable monitor hanging around your house. Talk to the experts at your security store to find out what requirements your monitor will have to meet.

Installation

Installation can add a hefty chunk of change to the total cost of your CCTV security system. If you’re reasonably handy, you can probably handle the installation yourself. You’ll find lots of online help with installing CCTV systems, including videos that walk you through everything from running wire through finished walls to turning on your surveillance camera.

DVR

If there’s one thing you really don’t want to skimp on, it’s the DVR connected to your security camera system. You’ll save money by buying a standalone DVR, but you’ll miss out on many of the features that are a given with a PC-based DVR system. If all you really need is recording, storage and viewing video on request, you can save a lot with an inexpensive standalone DVR, but you’ll miss out on things like PTZ controls, alarm inputs and hybrid capabilities.

Wiring

Most analog security camera systems use coax cable or Siamese cable to transmit data, but you can also run the cabling with CAT5 cable. It will run both the power and the data to your IP camera, saving you about 65 percent the cost of Siamese cable.

Finally, keep in mind that CCTV systems can significantly reduce your insurance premiums, and, in retail or commercial operations, save you a considerable amount of costs in reduced shrinkage.