Is your organization as secure as it can be? A high-tech commercial security camera system can help organizations deter potential criminals while enhancing workplace safety.
Today’s cameras have moved beyond the grainy footage that requires significant physical space for storage to highly sophisticated cameras providing digital output that can be analyzed to provide valuable insight and protection.
Technology has advanced so quickly that commercial security camera systems now offer an advanced variety of capabilities and features.
Here are the most important features to consider when deciding on the right system for your organization.
Camera Types
Regarding video surveillance systems, there are two main camera types: Internet Protocol (IP) and analog. Analog cameras are the traditional type that has been a mainstay in businesses with security needs throughout the last few decades.
Still, they are being phased out in favor of IP cameras due to their greater power. These network devices can capture footage with higher resolutions and accommodate more sophisticated functions, such as video analytics.
Bullet cameras are the rectangular boxes that often come to mind when one thinks of security cameras, and they remain one of the most popular varieties.
However, drone cameras are becoming increasingly popular as they can be attached to a ceiling to provide an overhead view of an area or even flown across a broad space.
Pan/tilt/zoom cameras with remote control capabilities are also becoming more popular as they allow users to adjust the field of vision to view specific spots or scenarios.
Storage
Different businesses will have different needs for saving and storing footage. In some cases, an organization may be required to keep footage for a certain period, while others might have shorter storage needs.
The duration and quality of the videos an organization needs are the main determinant of how much storage will be required. Keep in mind that businesses that need to record and archive considerable volumes of high-quality footage will need a significant amount of storage space.
Choosing whether the footage will be stored locally on an internal storage drive built into the camera, on a hard drive, or on an external cloud platform is also necessary.
Audio
Not every camera is capable of picking up audio, and sound is not needed in every security scenario. For businesses seeking footage with sound, it is important to determine whether two-way audio will be needed.
These camera models enable the individual monitoring the camera to communicate with subjects within the field of vision as needed.
Features
Organizations must have a clear idea of which specific features their commercial security camera system needs before they begin looking for a system.
Some features are more common and easier to find, such as night vision and the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom. Smart motion detection is another coveted feature that can save resources by only activating the recording when detecting motion.
However, some organizations may have more sophisticated needs, such as license plate recognition, and this must be considered from the outset as many systems do not offer this capability.
Another popular feature many modern organizations find useful is facial recognition, which depends on sophisticated algorithms to analyze and compare the facial patterns it detects against a database of known faces. This can facilitate everything from access control to tracking employee attendance and identifying suspicious activity.
It is helpful to consider the main objective of the surveillance efforts. For example, a business that needs a system to monitor the premises at night will need a system with high-quality night vision capable of providing alerts around the clock.
Video Analytics
One of the chief benefits of IP cameras over the analog cameras of yesteryear is their ability to provide video analytics. This can provide mobile notifications and automatic recording when certain movements occur, making it useful when a business is closed or motion is detected.
Specific types of events can even be flagged, with real-time notifications sent to a business owner’s smartphone alongside recorded footage so they can decide whether further action is needed. These systems can also alert local law enforcement agencies or commercial security guards.
The System’s Coverage Area
Organizations should think about where their surveillance system cameras will be situated, as this directly impacts the type and quantity of cameras that will be needed.
A large retail store may need multiple cameras at entrances, exits, and each cash register. In contrast, other types of facilities may need a different configuration. Those relying primarily on outdoor cameras at entries or exits will need weatherproof outdoor cameras to withstand the elements.
Learn More About Intelligence Surveillance Solutions
Provide your business with top-notch security with high-tech commercial security camera installation services from Advantage Tech. Our team of experts will work with you to determine your needs and establish thorough and effective coverage. Contact us today to discuss your needs.