How Many Cameras do I Need for my System?
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Great! You’ve realized the advantages of using security cameras. Now you’ve decided to purchase a security camera system. First you’ll want to figure out how many cameras you’ll need and what kind of technical ability you’ll require in each camera.
Step 1: How many cameras will you require?
Take a walk around the area you want to view. Take notes as you do it (that will help later on when you’re talking to any sales reps). Look high and low. Now stand back.
Answer a few questions before proceeding:
Are you inside or outside?
How high are the exterior walls?
What materials are the walls made out of?
Is there landscaping or trees around?
Are there internal walls or dividers present?
Is the area in a high traffic zone? (i.e. delivery trucks passing etc)
All of these things are important to keep in mind when choosing your security cameras. You’ll need to know whether you’ll need waterproof or vandal proof cameras, whether you need heaters for year round usage or cameras that can adapt well in any light condition (or weather condition).
If you have a large flat exterior wall, you may consider buying a pan tilt zoom camera. This allows you a greater field of view with only ONE camera! Cameras mounted inside should keep to a corner area to minimize blind spots. These are very general tips, as many stores and offices have shelving and small divider walls which may distort your field of view. Same goes for landscaping in your entrance or loading vehicles in the rear of the building. You’ll need to see what’s going on no matter if you bought a system in January and realized by June your delivery trucks and trees have blocked your view.
Another factor worth considering is where your weak spots are. Taking that walk around will help you notice things that would have been missed previously. Such as: that corner that never gets used, the back door that only gets used for smokers, and the hallway that leads from the staff washroom. They might not be considered high traffic areas, but it’s the hidden spots that thieves will take advantage of.
SIZE REALLY MATTERS
If loss prevention is your reason for that new security camera system, than consider that bigger is better. A really big camera might be what you’re after. The more visible the camera, it will be less likely shoplifters will consider your business. Same goes for the staff. Although we hate to admit it, at least 75% of employees say they’ve snatched the odd item from under the boss’ nose. The presence of a security camera, the less likely they will be willing to risk their job by dipping into your stock.
LIGHTING
You’ll definitely want to consider the time of day you want to capture most. Retail store locations are often work late into the evening, especially in the Holiday shopping season. You’ll need a camera that can operate well in light and dark settings. Perhaps you want to record the yard at night. Infrared technology or Black and white cameras work best.
Consultation with a professional security installation company before purchasing will ensure you get the system that you need.
Lisa Pedersen works at Skyway Security in New York, selling quality security camera systems for home and work. Tips from the sales staff continue…look for more articles!