Installing a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system for your business is a proactive way to improve security and give you peace of mind. That said, it’s easy to install a business CCTV system and think it will do everything for you. 

While CCTV systems are a good investment, it’s important to understand how your system works and how you can best use it to complement your other security systems. 

How a CCTV System Works

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics before you decide where to install a CCTV system or if you should use a CCTV installation service.

What’s needed for a business CCTV system install:

• Cameras

• Wires

• Recording equipment

• Data storage

• Viewing devices

In a nutshell, a business CCTV system is a system that allows an individual or a business to view, record, and store video footage. Closed-circuit refers to the system operating within the confines of the cameras, monitors, and storage device(s) on-site, and a CCTV system cannot be picked up or broadcast to an outside receiver. This makes CCTV systems particularly useful for security and liability purposes.

Making the Most of Your CCTV System

Anyone can buy and install a CCTV system. Meaning, it’s easy to buy cameras/monitors/data storage and cobble the system together without much thought. 

Not everyone can install a business CCTV system to maximize potential and optimize performance. That’s why many business leaders hire security professionals to install CCTV systems. 

If you’re intent on installing yourself or just want to know how to make the most of your system, here are some tips that can help you.

Go Digital

Analog video—video recorded onto tapes and CDs—is outdated. Today, digital video systems are more capable and offer a wider variety of storage options and sizes than analog. The easiest immediate win with a new CCTV system is to choose a high-quality digital security solution.

Optimize Camera Location

Camera location is everything. You want maximum coverage. 

Be sure to consider obstacles (branches, bushes, poles, etc.) and how they might potentially obscure your view. Do your cameras need to be inconspicuous? Consider camera options that blend into the surroundings and can go unnoticed.

Keep Software Up to Date

Your CCTV system is only as good as the software that holds it together. Often, CCTV providers will offer new features, updated security settings, and improved functionality through periodic updates. You don’t want an ignored system update to render your CCTV setup obsolete. Keep your system up to date at all times. 

Integrate with Other Security Systems

You need your security solutions to work together. Modern CCTV systems can connect to other smart devices like doors, locks, thermostats, and more. Be sure your system of choice can integrate with the other security features you use in your business.

Consider Data Storage Limitations

Data storage is important if you want to be able to record video. With that in mind, there are a few things to consider to make the most of your CCTV system. 

• How much storage do you need? Consider that 1 camera recording at 1080p and 30 frames per second for 24 hours 7 days a week needs more than 4.5 terabytes of storage space. You’ll need plenty of storage if you plan to record around the clock and in high quality.

• How can you optimize data storage? Consider reducing the framerate of your footage (from 30 frames per second to 15) or reducing video quality. The higher the framerate and better the video quality, the more storage you’ll need.

Think About Scalability

Your business will likely grow, and it’s nice to have the option to scale security solutions as it does. Many modern CCTV systems are designed to grow with your business. You want to find a system that lets you install additional cameras and improve data storage options as your business needs them. 

Remember, not all CCTV systems are the same. You want to do your research before you buy a system for your business. Even after purchase, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with your CCTV system so you can make the most of it. 

A CCTV System is a Smart Business Decision

Now that you know how to make the most of a CCTV system, you can more easily find and install the system that best suits your business. 

A good place to get started is with an overview of how much it costs to install a CCTV system. 

Still on the fence about whether a CCTV system is right for you? Our experts are ready to put your mind at ease—both about CCTV and your business security—so give us a call today.