Helpful Tips for CCTV Systems How (and Why) to Back-focus a CCTV Camera

One of the biggest problems encountered by people who DIY install their own CCTV systems is inconsistent focus. The most common iteration of the problem is that the image is in perfect focus in daylight, but at night, all you get is a blur. It results from a basic technical detail: during the day – or in bright sunlight –the lens iris is closed, giving you a very wide depth of field. As the light level drops, the iris opens to bring in more light. When that happens, the depth of field is decreased and images at most distances will be blurred. There is a way to combat this tendency: back-focusing your CCTV camera with the iris fully opened to provide the optimal focus for all conditions. Here’s how you do it.
Back-focusing a Fixed Lens Security Camera for CCTV Systems
Determine the distance from the camera to the scene you want to capture with the surveillance camera.
Set the physical focus of the lens to the full infinity position.
Insert a neutral density filter. This iris will open completely to allow more light and increase the depth of field to give you the most precision with your adjustments.
Set the lens focus to near and the zoom to wide.
Aim the CCTV camera at a high-contrast object that is the same distance from the camera as the scene you’ll want to capture when the camera is in place.
Turn the lens body until the object is completely in focus.
Remove the neutral filter and install the camera in place.
You should now be able to focus the camera manually to get the precise focus you want – and all of your scenes will remain in focus regardless of the lighting conditions.
Higher end CCTV systems have security camera choices with auto back focus, so this procedure is not necessary. If you’re running discount CCTV systems with a cheap surveillance camera option, you may need to fiddle with it a bit to get the settings right for optimal focus.
Need more help with setting up your CCTV camera for good focus? Most professionals who sell and service CCTV systems will be happy to answer simple questions and offer advice. And of course, if you want to be absolutely certain that everything is properly installed, you can always hire a pro to install your security/surveillance system and not have to worry about it at all.

Tips for Installing CCTV Systems in Bars and Music Clubs

Are you considering the use of a CCTV security system in your music club, bar or live music venue? CCTV systems can provide layers of security that can help you pinpoint trouble before it starts, not to mention, defend yourself in case your business is accused of wrongdoing. If you’re been looking at CCTV systems for the purpose providing security for your live music venue or dance club, consider these tips to help you decide how and where to locate each security camera inside and outside your premises.
Cover Entrances and Exits
Entrances and exit points are among the most important areas to keep under surveillance, especially outside business hours. An obvious surveillance camera pointed at the doors will help discourage vandals and burglars who might otherwise attempt to break in.
Spare a Surveillance Camera for the Door
Don’t take chances with bouncers “forgetting” to check ID when a hot babe wants in. A CCTV camera at the admission door can capture everyone entering as well as their IDs. Keeping a record of the ID checks at the door can help ensure that the bouncers stay on task and don’t let anyone underage slip by. If someone does manage to slip in on a fake ID, you’ll have a record proving that your crew did their due diligence.
Watch the Bar
Place at least one surveillance camera where it can pick up what’s going on behind the bar. Bevinco, a liquor inventory control service, estimates that shrinkage – losses due to waste, spillage and theft of your liquid stocks – can eat up to 30% of your bottom line. That’s a lot of spilled beer. It’s not all due to theft, of course – a CCTV camera will help you pinpoint inefficiency, clumsiness and drinks “for friends” as well as outright theft. One of the best uses for CCTV systems in the hospitality industry is to keep an eye on staff and make sure they’re not stealing from the company.
Cover Likely “Hot” Spots
Every bar has some out-of-the-way areas where bad things are likely to happen. It may be the pool room in the back, the alley beside the back door or a sheltered alcove on the far side of the stage, but it’s out of the line of sight for most of the staff most of the time, making it an attractive place for people who are up to no good. Aim a security camera at the dark corner or cover the pool room with a monitor somewhere it can be watched so that you can stop trouble before it starts.
CCTV systems can help protect nightclubs and other entertainment venues as long as you know the best places to locate the cameras. Even if you end up installing the system yourself, consider consulting a professional to help you draw up a good plan to cover your place of business.