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Best Practices for CCTV Camera

If you are looking to install CCTV at your business or home, it is very important that you should know what type of camera, DVR/NVR and other related equipment would you need. You can know all this from your Security Camera installers such as Cablify. We are in the CCTV installation business for over 5 years and can are fully abreast of the latest technologies in the world of Security camera installation. Here are some tips incase are looking to get this done.

Type of Camera: Choosing the right type of Camera is the first and most important step. Here is a list of different type of Cameras:

  • Dome type Camera
  • Bullet CCTV Camera
  • Day/Night CCTV Camera
  • PTZ Camera
  • Wireless Indoor Camera
  • Infrared Camera
  • High definition cameras

For all the above, you need to know the typical day-to-day environment where the camera will be located. Would you need a fixed camera or motion based camera, would you need night coverage etc. These conditions would need a specific resolution that may impact the required performance.

Mounting the Camera and its Location:

Camera location plays a very important role and it may depend upon the following factors:

  • The distance from the camera to the DVR
  • Environmental conditions
  • Lighting conditions
  • And intended monitoring locations or areas

Correctly positioned Cameras are essential as this will eliminate the need for additional cameras to cover your target area and maximize the efficiency of your security system. Incorrect camera placement may lead to blind spots or objects too far to view in detail. Mounting cameras at an elevated position can keep your cameras out of range of vandals or would-be burglars. Position the cameras in locations to capture as much area as possible without sacrificing video quality.

For example, if your target is a backyard gate, position the camera so you can see the gate and the surrounding areas. You can capture someone entering the area and not just the gate itself.

For indoor locations, place interior cameras in high traffic areas such as entry and exit points, Hallways and staircases. Other ideal locations are next to Windows and rooms that have high price valuables such as Electronics, Antiques, and Jewelry.

By knowing the focal length of the lens and the distance between the point of interest and the camera, you can calculate the pixels per foot to maximize the resolution. This would help you choose the resolution required:

  • Standard Definition
  • Megapixel
  • High Definition
  • Ultra High Definition

Camera Storage: Storage is another important aspect when planning CCTV Installation. If you have multiple cameras and recording High def videos, you need to make sure your storage device has enough data storage room to accommodate several days of recording. If need, you should consider deploying a NAS to accommodate big data. When saving evidence for use in investigations and court, always export the NATIVE file from the drive, it is always better resolution. In addition capture CD, DVD, or .AVI file.

Other Best practices

  • Other Tips:
  • Do not point the camera towards the light source. Pointing the camera towards a window intending to see outside may result in a poor image because of glare and lighting conditions.
  • Don’t place the camera in a shaded area that’s looking into a well-lit area as this will result in a poor display. 
  • Clean the Camera lens from time to time if the picture degrades. This will ensure your Camera better life and clarity.
  • Protect the cables from the elements to avoid deterioration.
  • Avoid placing cameras where there is electrical interference.
  • Do not bend the cable greater than 90°.
  • Do not over tighten cable ties.
  • Avoid using a staple gun to secure the cable to a wall.
  • Use an electrical tape to seal the coctions when joining multiple cables together

Keep these points in mine so you can get the most out of your security system.

 

1 comment

  1. Hello,
    I require 4 outdoor bullet cameras installed at my Toronto residence. My home was newly renovated and all interior security camera wiring has been run within the home. I already own the cameras and DVR. I require the installation. Is this something do and if so can you provide a quote?

    Thanks

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