Planning to install CCTV cameras? Note these points for effective installation

Installing CCTV cameras has become a common security measure in offices, commercial buildings and houses too. These are some of the important things to keep in mind while installing CCTV cameras.

» Planning and positions – The positions in which you intend to install the cameras should be decided in advance. Dome cameras are suitable for indoor installation while cameras with IP protection should be installed outdoors, especially at spots that are exposed to sunlight and rain. Dome cameras are perfect for homes and offices as they can cover wide angles.

» CCTV cameras that are above 1 MP are available in the market these days. Make sure to select cameras that have good clarity as the main purpose of installing the cameras is to ensure safety. The images would be clearer in a camera that has clarity. Besides, cameras that have night colour vision qualities and mics too are available. These should be selected as per your requirement. For instance, there is no need to install a night vision colour camera at a shop or a showroom that is open 24 x 7 and has enough lighting. Similarly, cameras that are installed at a significant height do not require mics.

» You could decide whether you need an IP, ANALOG,HD or WiFi camera with the help of an experienced technician. Moreover, you should know the features and uses of the camera that you plan to install. For example, you should use an ANPR (Automatic Number – Plate Recognition) camera in case you need to capture the image of the number plates of vehicles. Regular cameras, despite its high clarity, may not be able to capture the number plate of a speeding vehicle.

» Do not install the camera at a position where light directly falls on the camera as it would affect the clarity of the images.

» It is better not to install the camera at a position that brings an object right in front of the lens. During dark hours, when the infrared facility in the camera gets switched on, the infrared rays may reflect off the object, thereby focussing only on the object and blurring the surrounding areas. You might not notice this problem during the daytime when there is enough light. However, the camera may not give you the required results, when the infrared signals are switched on at night.

» Do not install CCTV cameras at a height more than 12 feet as it would be difficult to capture clear images of a person’s face. Similarly, it is not wise to install it at a low height either.

» The Digital Video Recorder and Network Video Recorder should be selected after deciding the total number of cameras that are required. Usually, cameras that provide up to 4, 8, 16 and 32 channels are available in the market. In case you wish to install more cameras, in the future, choose the ones that offer DVR and NVR accordingly.

Information courtesy: Binil Lukose