How to choose a CCTV camera system

When securing your home or business against burglars, choosing the right CCTV camera security system for your property is vital. There are several important factors to consider when selecting your security camera system. These factors include your budget and the areas you want to be covered by your cameras.
Even a relatively inexpensive, basic CCTV system can act as a deterrent to unwanted intruders or help to capture criminals. The most important factors are that the purpose/function of the security system has been well planned and that the CCTV is installed in a manner that maximises its capability.
Badly thought-through or poorly installed systems often fail to protect your property and belongings adequately. Unclear images or unrevealing angles will be unlikely to aid you or your security in preventing a criminal intrusion, nor help the police to apprehend and prosecute the criminals. CCTV camera footage can help significantly in the arrest and conviction of burglars. But these benefits are wasted by using a poorly designed and maintained camera network.

Choosing the best CCTV system

When choosing a CCTV system, consideration must be given to the camera positions used and the layout and size of the area needing coverage. It is also good to have a clear understanding of the purpose of the surveillance and the quality or type of images that will be captured.

Many CCTV systems can fail to achieve results due to the owners installing them with the expectation that they will perform functions they aren't designed for. Poorly positioned cameras may fail to act as effective deterrents if they are not prominent or might be vandalised if they are too accessible. Basic cameras positioned too distantly or in areas with poor lighting may prove useless at detecting suspicious activity. Cameras designed to monitor vehicle entry to a property will likely be inadequate for identifying individual faces of intruders.

A common failing of security camera systems is the quality and size of captured images and footage. Recorded images are often less clear and in lower resolutions than live footage.

Camera types and features

Several different types of cameras can be used for your CCTV system. These include:

  Dome cameras provide discreet surveillance and are suitable for indoor use.
  Bullet cameras are an effective deterrent and useful for outdoor surveillance.
  PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras can be remotely controlled.
  IP cameras may have features like remote access and high resolution.

Camera features to consider when setting up a CCTV system include resolution, low-light or infrared (IR) cameras (highly useful for surveillance at night), field of view, continuous or motion-activated cameras, digital or network video recorders to record and store footage, storage capacity and weatherproofing. Another valuable feature many modern CCTV systems offer is the ability to view your live camera footage using smartphones or computers remotely.

Benefits of a good CCTV layout

An intelligently planned and designed CCTV camera system layout offers considerable benefits. Well-placed cameras can be a significant deterrent for criminals, and the captured images and footage can be invaluable for police investigations and court proceedings. Live monitoring by security cameras can lead to rapid interventions in the case of criminal activity, with live security checks on those entering or leaving the property.

Here is some key advice from the Home Office on the installation of CCTV security camera systems:

  Select the best locations for your cameras and the correct type of camera.
  Consider viewing angles and lighting when placing cameras.
  Cameras in high-risk areas should record video at a minimum of six frames per second.
  Ensure your camera system records and stores images for later review or export.
  Check recorded images are clear and the same size as the original live view.
  Set system clocks accurately for use in any potential police investigation.
  Make sure cameras, equipment and installation all comply with BS EN 50132-7.

Installing your CCTV camera network

The Home Office recommends using a company accredited by a UKAS-approved scheme to install your security camera network. They also suggest that professional standards should be used for all subsequent system maintenance. It is important to research your area's local laws and regulations regarding CCTV installation, privacy and data protection to ensure you are in compliance and have acquired any necessary permits.

At EPG Security, we ensure quality installations by having our CCTV security systems installed and maintained by NSI-certified experts while using the latest technology. For free advice on the best way to protect your home or business property with CCTV cameras, contact EPG Security. We will provide a no-obligation assessment of your specific security needs.