If you’ve come across this article, chances are you’re looking for a security system to install and want to know a bit about it before you invest your money. I must say that it is a smart choice and you have come to the right place. Before you end up buying some second rate security system, you should first know the basics, so you can make sure you’re not bluffed by the person selling it to you.
Your choice of surveillance system depends on the location you need to keep secure. For example, if you need a security camera for your home, you can go with analogue cameras. However, If you’re looking for a security system for your office, then you should go for coram that provides you with different types of security cameras that can completely prevent you from theft and other mishaps.
1. Sort Out Your Budget and Be Willing to Invest:
While buying a security system, you should be ready to invest in it. There are many cheap options on the market, but you’ll end up spending twice the amount of money in repairing whenever it stops working. Most inexpensive cameras offer no warranty at all or a three to six months warranty that is of no use.
Major security companies offer a two to three-year warranty with installation services. Be smart and try to make the right decision. Security isn’t something you should hold back on, it is a basic necessity and it’s worth every penny.
While you may need a high-end security system for your office, you can cut back on house security depending on where you live. Where offices require both indoor and outdoor cameras, residential areas only require outdoor cameras. Chicago surveillance cameras are some of the best in the country and can also be used at office sites.
2. Gain Essential Knowledge about Camera Features:
Before you invest in a camera system just because a marketer made you do so, you should know about the basic features, so you don’t get scammed. Not only will this help you in purchasing a system with the functionality that is customized to your needs, but also with the decision about where to cut back and where to invest.
Focal length
Focal length is the distance that the camera will be able to see in meters. It will help you analyze where you need your camera and how far would you want it to see. For example, if you plan on putting your camera at the front gate, then you only need to record the identity of the people coming to the company. In this case, you can use a camera with less focal length, as what you need to record is only two meters away.
Resolution
The resolution means picture quality. After you decide the focal length, you should now decide what kind of picture resolution you need. For example, some companies keep a high-resolution camera at the main entrance and then less resolution cameras indoors. 350 TVL resolution cameras have low resolution and are therefore, used indoors while 480 TVL and 500-640 TVL are used for outdoor purposes.
Frame and tilting capability
The frame of the camera is also necessary. While movies may lead us to think that specific cameras work as an identical replica of a human eye, we aren’t quite there yet. You should make sure that the camera you choose has a frame that covers the required area.
Some cameras can follow movement in respective areas. All you have to do is make a virtual boundary, and any time someone crosses the invisible tripwire, the camera can track the movement and thus, provide better security. However, in order to benefit from this option, your camera should have the necessary tilting feature.
Battery
Another thing that you should be aware of is the battery life, especially if you go for a wireless option. While wired cameras may seem a little old, they are the option you should go for. You wouldn’t want your wireless camera running out of battery when an incident takes place now, would you? So, be smart and stick with wired cameras so that they don’t run out of power.
Zoom features
You should also consider the zoom feature before buying a CCTV security system. For example, some cameras need to be manually fixed, while some can be adjusted from the control room. You should be sure which one you need in your respective location and then invest in the option that offers you all that you need.
3. Buy Additional Lighting Support If Needed:
If you don’t have a CCTV security system that has infrared lights, you should buy additional lighting options for the area where you intend to situate the cameras. You wouldn’t want an intruder getting away due to bad lights. It is better if you install motion sensors and floodlights so that anyone trying to enter the premises without your approval can be caught and startled for a moment. It can give the camera enough time to record minor details that might help.
If you follow the list mentioned above before you go and buy a security system, you will surely have your basics covered and will make a decision worthwhile. Remember to have a clear picture of what you want and don’t let the marketer talk you into features you might not need. You know your premises better than they do. Make an informed and sound decision, and once you’re done, call the security company that you want to deal with and talk to professionals that can guide you in a better manner.
Remember, once you’ve bought the respective system get the installation companies to do the heavy lifting, trust me saving a few bucks on the installation may render the whole purpose of installation worthless. The installation companies are there for a reason and should; therefore, be taken advantage of. Stay safe and make the right decision, mention further queries in the comments below.
About the Author:
Garrett Thomas is a French national, a student of IT, in his final year at Stanford University. He is exceptionally passionate about writing his thoughts in words. He takes up writing projects in his leisure time to accompany his studies. He is obsessed with new technology and enjoys every bit exploring it.
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