CCTV Systems Hotel Guidelines

Hotels and other hospitality destinations have a very real need for CCTV systems to monitor public areas for security and guest safety. While some organizations raise issues of guest privacy, the truth is that any hotel, motel or other rental property that does not provide appropriate security for its guests is opening itself to a whopper of a lawsuit. This possibility becomes even more likely when you consider how television shows have accustomed the public’s expectations with regards to security footage in hotels, motels and resorts. Thanks to the depiction of the complex CCTV systems on police procedurals and adventure shows that feature famous Las Vegas and NYC hotels, much of the public believes that all hotels are outfitted similarly.
Of course, such complex CCTV layouts are exorbitantly prohibitive for most small hotels and motels. In addition, there’s a fine line of balance between privacy concerns and the legal duty to provide the highest level of safety possible. Here are a few of the concerns and issues you should consider when deciding on what types of security camera and surveillance equipment you’ll use in your hospitality business.
Your State and Local Laws
Federal, state and local laws all have a bearing on what is expected and what is allowed in regards to security camera coverage and surveillance camera placement. Before installing any kind of CCTV systems in your facility, check with your local authorities to find out what’s acceptable and what’s forbidden.
Guest Expectations
For example, most guests expect a security camera in “dangerous” areas, such as parking garages, elevators and long hallways. They’re likely to be accepting of a surveillance camera at the check-in desk or the entry to the facility. However, they have a reasonable expectation of privacy – one that is generally supported by law – once they step inside the door of the room they have rented. Thus, guests should have a reasonable assurance that they will not be watched in their suites, but that there’s a good possibility of being on camera when in public areas and amenities like swimming pools and workout rooms.
To Monitor or Not to Monitor
It’s also important to consider how you’re actually going to use the CCTV system you install. If the intent is to provide security and peace of mind for your guests, you have to decide whether to employ  a full-time security employee to monitor the feeds from the security camera in real time. Will you install cameras that can be seen? How about security monitors? Where will you locate them? Will someone be able to watch the feed at all times, or is the footage only available for review after the fact?
Whatever you decide, it’s important that you know why you arrived at the decision you did with regard to the CCTV systems you installed. It may be important in case you are ever called upon to justify those decisions in court.

Top Questions About CCTV Systems and Security Camera

Vendors who specialize in CCTV systems and surveillance camera systems field a lot of questions about surveillance, security and the capabilities of CCTV for security. While every customer has his own questions, some of them are asked so often that they may as well be on a FAQ page. These are among the most common things people want to know before they buy a new security camera, CCTV security system or surveillance system.
Can I Install the System Myself?
The answer to that question depends on the complexity of the system and your own skills and abilities as a handyman. Some CCTV systems are relatively simple – just a security camera wired to a DVR or monitor. Installing a system like that isn’t much more difficult than hooking up your cable box. If, on the other hand, your security system will involve multiple surveillance cameras and running miles of wire to hook them all together, you might be more comfortable calling in a professional to do the installation.
Will I Be Able to View Surveillance Footage via Smart Phone or Tablet?
Many CCTV systems include software that will allow you to view and control your security camera through your smart phone or tablet. If that’s your intent, let the vendor know so that he can direct you to appropriate camera, DVR and monitor options.
What Is the Best Security Camera to Buy?
This may be one of the most difficult questions you’ll have to decide because there are so many factors that influence your choice. If you want great detail – if you want to be able to read license plates, for example, or produce footage that is clear and detailed enough to use in a court case, you’ll want to consider a high-resolution camera. If you’re looking for a surveillance camera for nighttime surveillance, you’ll want one that operates well in low light situations. If clear recognition is important and the camera will mostly be used with daytime lighting, a color security camera may be your best bet. Again, consulting with a knowledgeable CCTV expert can help you make the best choice for your needs.
Is Wireless or Wired Better for Surveillance Systems?
The answer to this question depends on your priorities and your needs. Wired CCTV systems are more secure than those that use a wireless IP-based security camera, because the signals are transmitted in a closed loop. IP cameras, on the other hand, transmit signals through the air, which means that there is a possibility of the signal being intercepted. On the other hand, wireless CCTV systems tend to be more affordable, in large part because installation is much less expensive. If cost is a major concern, an IP surveillance camera that broadcasts to a PC may be the most suitable option.
Choosing the right equipment for CCTV systems can be tricky, but there’s a lot of information available to help you make the right choice. Take the time to research and ask question so you’ll get the best equipment for your needs.

Requirements for Outdoor Security Cameras in CCTV Systems

Do you need an outdoor security camera? If you’re a business owner with an outdoor entrance, the answer is an unequivocal yes. Homeowners installing CCTV systems for security should also consider an outdoor security camera at the entrance, as well as one to survey areas of the property that aren’t viewable from any window. Commercial property owners have the most incentive for installing an outdoor surveillance camera, not only for the protection of their property and tenants, but to protect themselves from lawsuits and other legal actions. When choosing a CCTV camera for outdoor use, there are several factors to take into consideration.
Power Source
For most outdoor uses, you’ll want to use a wired camera rather than one that is battery operated. In most cases, the placement of the camera will make battery replacement awkward – and the last thing you want is to miss something important because the batteries have run out. Thus, you’ll want to place outdoor cameras for CCTV systems within easy access to power receptacles – or arrange to have power receptacles installed at the most advantageous position for your security camera.
Lighting
It’s also important to provide an adequate amount of light for photographing the area. There are a number of options for ensuring adequate lighting for CCTV systems and cameras. First, you can provide additional lighting as part of an overall security plan. This can include permanent lighting for parking lots and entry areas combined with low lux cameras, as well as motion-activated security lights combined with a motion-activated surveillance camera. Another more expensive option is an infra-red security camera that can record images in near darkness.
Weather Resistance
Look for a security camera with weather resistant housing for use outdoors. Cameras that are meant to be used outdoors with CCTV systems generally have weather-tight, water resistant housing to keep out the precipitation and dust. Be certain to choose a CCTV camera that’s meant for outdoor use.
Protective Housing
In addition to being protected from the weather, your outdoor security camera should also be protected by a security housing that will prevent it from being disabled or broken by thrown, blown or falling objects. Many outdoor security camera options include a wire cage of sorts to protect the camera from deliberate or accidental damage.
Outdoor cameras are often integral parts of CCTV systems. The use of an outdoor security camera extends the protection and surveillance outside the walls of your home and can help you identify and stop trouble before it gets to you or your family.

Five Things You Should Know About HD CCTV Systems

Is your existing CCTV security system wired with coax cable? Then you’re well on the way to upgrading to an updated HD CCTV system. Here are a few important facts for people who are considering upgrading from standard CCTV to HD CCTV systems.
You May Not Have to Rewire Your System
If your security camera system is wired using coaxial cable, you’re already wired for high definition CCTV systems. The newest HD CCTV camera configurations can send full 1080P highdef video in real time over your existing coaxial cables. That makes upgrading to a newer surveillance camera system far more affordable for the average business owner.
With HDSDI Cameras, CCTV Systems Are Broadcast Quality
Thanks to new technology, CCTV systems can now boast the same quality video you get when you watch the hover camera during the football game. An HDSDI security camera can send uncompressed 720P and 1080P video over coaxial lines at 30 frames per second, enabling real time surveillance in HD video quality.
Huge Price Drops in the Past Couple of Years Make HD Surveillance Affordable
Think HD CCTV systems are out of your price range? Think again. As with any new technology, prices were high at first, but as the demand rose for HD CCTV camera components and new manufacturers entered the market, the prices have tumbled very quickly. And since most HDSDI security camera components will work with your current coax wiring, retrofitting your system is neither difficult nor expensive.
HDSDI CCTV Systems Meet High Quality Standards
How high? In 2010, the South Dakota Gaming Commission approved an HDSDI security camera system for use in South Dakota casinos. How good is the video? The casino’s security people were easily able to determine which playing cards were turned and could read the denominations on dollar bills on a whole table using just one camera. Today’s HDSDI CCTV camera components send a constant 30 fps per channel at 1280x720 resolution.
HD CCTV Systems Are Plug-and-Play
Because the HD CCTV camera is point-to-point, all you have to do is plug it into a compatible DVR or recording device. You don’t need a degree in computer networking to figure out how to pick up the signal from your recorder. All you have to do is get the cable from the security camera to the DVR – and if you’re already wired for CCTV using coax cable, you’ve got that covered.
Finally, HDSDI CCTV camera systems work with both standalone and PC-based hybrid DVRs, but they do require a compatible DVR to deliver full HD video over CCTV systems. Manufacturers are committed to tracking HDTV with HDCCTV standards. So you can expect the resolution on new cameras to keep getting better and better.

Tips to Reduce CCTV Systems Downtime

One of the least-discussed facts about CCTV systems is that they sometimes need repair – and when they need repairs, your property is not protected. CCTV components, from your security camera to the DVR to the cabling that ties your whole system together, are electronic/electrical equipment, and sometimes they fail. And far too often, when they fail, you end up having to ship a component back to the factory to be evaluated, or pay a repair person to come out to the site to evaluate it in place. There are, however, a few ways that you can reduce downtime when dealing with CCTV systems.
Buy Quality
The better quality your equipment is, the less likely it is to fail. If you pay $30 for a security camera, there’s a much higher likelihood of it failing than if you buy a $150 surveillance camera. Spend a little more up front when buying components for your CCTV camera system to avoid costly downtime in the future.
Keep Extras on Hand
You’ve heard the old saying, “For want of a nail, the shoe was lost…?” The simplest things can take CCTV systems down for the count. Have extra cabling, BNC connectors and other small component pieces on hand so you can do quick repairs yourself. If you’ve opted for a cheap surveillance camera instead of a much more expensive one, keep a second one on hand, just in case.
Test Everything on Arrival
When your CCTV camera and other components arrive, test them to make sure that everything is operable. If anything is broken or doesn’t seem to work, notify the dealer immediately to get a replacement.
Record Model Numbers and Other Details
Record serial numbers, model numbers and all other pertinent details for each component of your system. If something goes wrong, you won’t have to dismantle your whole security setup to get to the serial number for one camera. You’ll be very glad you have it when you call about a repair or replacement, and the manufacturer can’t help you without the right model number or serial number. It’s also easier to find information (and replacement pieces) online when you know the exact model number.
Register Your Warranty
Return any warranty cards and/or fill out warranty information online when you purchase your components. Many manufacturers make it easier for you to find tech support for your products if you’ve registered your equipment. A registration also provides an accurate record of your purchase, which could make a difference if you need to call on the protections provided in your warranty.
While most CCTV systems operate without a hitch, there’s always the chance that you’ll run into problems along the way. These tips can help you minimize the inconvenience when your security camera system malfunctions.

Hidden Camera CCTV Systems: What to Look For

One of the first decisions to make when you’re looking at CCTV systems is whether you need a visible system or one with a hidden security camera or cameras. An obvious surveillance camera has its place. Among other things, it serves as a deterrent to bad behavior. People are far less likely to shoplift, burglarize or vandalize if they know there’s a CCTV camera trained on them. If your intent is to discourage those things, a visible camera is the obvious choice.
On the other hand, if your intent is to catch someone engaging in bad behavior, you won’t do it with a security camera in plain sight. In that case, you should be looking at CCTV systems with hidden cameras. You’ll find plenty of these on the market, from the ubiquitous “nanny cam” that can be hidden in a wide variety of household objects to complete CCTV systems with cameras set into recessed ceiling domes or behind mirrors and walls. These tips can help you find the right surveillance camera for your needs.
Quality First
There are lots of “gadget” security cameras on the market. You know the type: pen cameras that fit in your pocket, teddy bear cameras and the like. They’re inexpensive for a reason: they’re cheap. If your intent is to capture evidence of wrongdoing on camera, you need to pay attention to quality. Look for a CCTV camera that delivers good quality images above all else.
Fit to Your Needs
Will your camera remain in one place permanently? Consider a wired CCTV camera that can be hidden behind an object or wall. A wired camera offers one distinct advantage over wireless cameras: they’re not prone to interference from other electronic frequencies. If you don’t want to run wires, look for a wireless security camera that can transmit to a nearby computer or DVR.
Hide-ability
Consider where you’ll be placing the surveillance camera when choosing the size, shape and casing. You can choose from small cameras that you can hide inside or behind objects or cameras that are fitted into casings that look like everyday objects – for example, no one would think twice about a second smoke detector affixed to the ceiling or high on a wall. Do keep in mind that many hidden cameras are meant for indoor use only, so if you’re buying a camera for outdoor use, your choices will be considerably more limited. On the other hand, your choice of hiding places may be much wider.
CCTV systems can provide open security, surveillance or both. When choosing cameras for covert use, consider where, how and why you’re using them to help you pick the best security camera for your needs.

Connecting CCTV Systems to Your TV

When it comes to security and surveillance, CCTV systems are the obvious choice for most property owners, even homeowners. A CCTV camera typically connects to a security monitor with a BNC (British Naval Connector) cable. These security monitors can be pricey, and while they do deliver high-quality images, they may be overpowered for the typical homeowner. It’s not difficult to connect a single security camera to a TV, but did you know you can connect entire CCTV systems up to a single television? You don’t need an expensive security monitor to keep an eye on your property. You can connect 4 or more surveillance cameras using an adapter and a video switcher. Here’s how.
You’ll need a BNC-to-RCA adapter, an RCA male to male cable and a video switcher.
Connect the output of each security camera to one of the inputs on your video switcher.
Connect the adapter to one of the outputs on the video switcher. You’ll use the second output, if the switcher has one, to connect a DVR to record your feed, or to display the video feed to another television.
Connect one end of the RCA cable to the adapter and the other end to one of the video inputs on your television. You’ll generally have a choice of Line In or several AUX lines.
That’s it. Your CCTV system is now physically connected to the television. From here, there are a few steps involved in setting up the video feed. Turn on the video switcher, then turn on your television.
Turn on your television and bring up the onscreen menu. Select the video input to which you connected the video switcher and follow onscreen prompts to set up the amount of time the switcher displays the view from each security camera. You can also choose to view just one camera.
Remember in terms of the actual recording that the DVR will only record the images that are shown on your screen and set up your dwell times accordingly.
This is a quick and dirty way to bring all of your security camera equipment together to mimic basic CCTV systems. It will work with just about any modern television and many older ones that have an RCA jack. A CCTV security system helps make your home, your belonging and your family safer. Whether you choose to monitor one camera or many, this simple trick will make it easier for you to keep an eye on your home.