How to choose the correct CCTV Solution for you?
CCTV is wide ranging and complex.
There seems to be a never ending variety of cameras out there. So how to know which one is best for your needs? And how to spot quality over mediocrity?
Cameras come in all shapes and forms, incorporating complex technology to fit consumers individual needs. From built in GPS or facial detection.. to anti-corrosion or explosion proof!
Do you need a camera to record constantly? This might be especially helpful to monitor main gates or an entrance way. Or do you need a camera that is triggered from an event? For example a camera with face detection technology, which allows the camera to recognise specific people and will notify you as they arrive or leave a building.
I’m going to break down specific cameras and their technologies, so you can decide for yourself which security solution will be best for you or your company.
Lets start with the physical look of a camera!
There are two main focuses when choosing a security camera – do you want this to function as a visible deterrent or to be inconspicuous and subtle?
Bullet Cameras
Bullet cameras are also named by their distinct cylindrical shape, which looks like a bullet shell or lipstick tube. As one of the most common types of security cameras, bullet cameras are a visible deterrent. In fact, studies have found the presence of obvious security cameras will make your property a less desirable target. Like dome cameras, bullet cameras can be installed indoors and outdoors.
Bullet cameras have a longer range which makes them ideal for viewing large areas like construction sites and parking lots. They are able to see much farther as the lens tends to be bigger. Ideal for outdoor use, the tip of the bullet camera includes a small lip which helps protect against glare and weather.
Dome Cameras
Dome security cameras get their name by their circular, dome shape. One of the main benefits of a dome camera is that the dome can make it difficult to determine where the camera is pointing. They are subtle and tend to blend in more with their environment. In addition, dome cameras are generally more durable and resistant to vandalism as the camera lens is protected.
The best security system often includes a mix of both dome and bullet cameras, allowing you to monitor all angles of your property, indoors and out.
Next, let’s have a look at the range of integrated technologies security cameras can possess.
Technologies
Fall Detection
Cameras can be set to specific triggers, such as if someone falls over. Fall detection, based on deep learning video analysis technology helps to detect people who trip or collapse suddenly, raising an immediate alarm. This can be very helpful in hospitals and care centres.
Behaviour Analysis
Based on deep learning algorithms, Behavior Analysis NVR supports the detection of loitering, People gathering, Violent motion and timely triggers alarms, which can effectively improve the security of various places. An example of using this technology would be in a bank or around an ATM.
Facial recognition & monitoring abnormal temperature
Cameras with this technology are designed to detect human faces and carry out facial comparisons. Which will enable you to receive real time alerts when specific people arrive or leave a building.
This specific service would allow a company to be alerted to the arrival of a VIP to enjoy an exclusive and considerate experience as soon as they arrive.
Pan, Tilt and Zoom Cameras
These cameras allow you to move the camera around and zoom as far as 3 miles in distance. These function brilliantly if you have a compound system set up and want to be able to see past the perimeter or manage multiple projects. You can control all cameras from an app on your smart phone, tablet or computer.
ANPR
ANPR stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition. An ANPR camera is a mass surveillance device that performs optical character recognition on images to read license plates, inform the police, and prevent criminal activities.
These advanced cameras can allow complete automation at the entry and exit points of your vicinity and control the incoming traffic flow. Company employees registered in the company database are allowed swift access through electronic barriers once the ANPR camera pulls their information.
You can use the camera as a stand-alone gate controller to store an authorized and non-authorized list of license plates stored onboard.
Intrusion Detection
With this technology an alarm will trigger when someone moves into frame and out again. This technology is often equipped with animal-immune detection (which means it will not be triggered by foxes, dog etc.) Other versions use body heat and thermal imaging to detect intruders.
Tannoy System
You can equip cameras with an audio warning. These are vital in making CCTV systems an effective deterrent to intruders. Audio warnings are announcements made via a site’s security system. These audio warning announcements can be heard at the site but are issued by security operators based away from the site, normally at a remote monitoring station.
And that is just a taste of the technology security cameras can incorporate today! Now, lets move on from the integrations and have a look at the quality.
Quality
So, what makes a great full proof quality security system?
Ideally you want a range of outdoor and indoor cameras (these can be bullets or domes) covering every angle. Specifically, entry ways and exits.
Make sure your system is effectively cable managed for security and protection, your cameras are weatherproof and include vandal deterrent properties such as anti-climb spikes or protected lenses.
Including remote accessibility to your CCTV is a must, being able to access your cameras and receive alerts wherever you are allowing you to have full control over your assets.
From managing building sites, to providing streamlined services and building repeat business, today’s technologies can provide a competitive edge. Among them, intelligent video technology delivers not only the essential element of security, but also operational efficiency and business insights. Relying on a reputable security system like SiteDefender® and the innovative technologies we provide, can offer you the best video security solutions across a wide range of industries. Make CCTV a preventative security measure as well as a reactive one.
Ultimately, it’s up to you which options you decide on. However, it’s always best to listen to the expert recommendations and to make sure you get a full survey of your building/site. This way security specialists can efficiently advise you on vulnerable zones and establish a secure perimeter of protection.