Choosing a Multiple Camera Security System

Choosing the right  security camera system is a decision faced by businesses of all sizes and from all industries. As surveillance solutions evolve and software advances, security cameras are offering businesses benefits that go beyond just security. Thanks to the integration of multiple security camera systems, business owners can monitor operations across different retail locations, keep an eye on employees, and keep tabs on their property while away.

Whether you’re a small retail shop planning to expand security coverage inside the store, a warehouse manager with plans to reduce inventory theft or loss, or an organizational head tasked with monitoring employees and tracking productivity within privacy laws, investing in multiple security cameras can make your work a lot easier. But choosing the best multi-camera security system is not easy. Questions that come to mind include:

• How do you scale from 2 security cameras to 8, 16, 24, 32, or even 64?
• How many security cameras do you need for comprehensive coverage?
• What factors should you consider before scaling up?

Scaling Your Surveillance System

When it comes to scaling a complete multiple security camera system, it’s important to think of your needs first. Depending on the number of security cameras and the  type of system you have, ask yourself if adding more cameras will help you achieve your goals. For instance, if you have four security cameras and your business is expanding and attracting additional customers, you may want to add a few additional cameras to improve your security coverage and better monitor movement.

If you have a traditional CCTV system where everything is hardwired directly to the  DVR, scaling may be more of a challenge. That’s why IP security camera systems that connect through CAT5 Ethernet cable to the network of your building are a popular option. It’s easier to lay and connect the additional cable needed to add cameras or update your multiple security camera system.

Scaling means you either utilize already existing surveillance infrastructure or invest in hardware that will support the number of security cameras you need. Between all this, consider whether the option you choose can cope with the growing demands of your video surveillance system while offering value for the money. Additionally, think of the reliability and management capacity of the best multi-camera security system you choose.

The best system should enable you to record and view video footage from anywhere on any internet-enabled device. Your video surveillance needs will generally continue to grow, so consider expanding features and capabilities that will benefit your business. Most manufacturers offering multiple security camera systems understand the need for scalability, so compatibility is not a big problem. If you’re upgrading, ensure that the technology cameras you choose will work with your current recorder and cables.

Factors to Consider When Adding New Security Cameras

Take these considerations into account when you want to add new security cameras.

Ease of Adding New Hardware

Whether you’re planning to expand your business, rent more office space, or extend surveillance coverage in a residential or commercial complex, you’ll need more security cameras. As you shop around, you need to make sure your new hardware can easily be added to your existing infrastructure. As mentioned above, scalability is best achieved when working off an IP-based multiple security camera system versus a traditional analog one.

IP systems allow for the seamless addition of new users, locations, and equipment. However, considering that HD-over-coax security systems are the most widely used by businesses, scaling is still reasonable when you have the right hardware, specifically a multiple channel DVR that supports the number of cameras you want. More wiring and structuring will be needed to allow for the installation of new security cameras.

Available Storage and Network Bandwidth

As you plan to add more cameras, you’ll need to update your storage and bandwidth so that you don’t limit your video surveillance capabilities. Discuss with your security camera provider about the required network changes needed to support your new hardware before adding new cameras. For instance, if you opt for a 64 multiple IP security camera system, more bandwidth may be needed to avoid compromising other systems using the same network.

Surveillance Footage Access and Management

How do you plan to monitor the additional security cameras? Do you want to have a centralized surveillance management point with security experts monitoring live footage on CCTV monitors? Do you want remote access over your phone, tablet, or PC? The ease of surveillance footage access and management should be considered before adding more cameras. The best multi-camera security system should have remote access via mobile devices as a central feature.

What Makes a Great Security System?

While complete security camera systems are becoming ever more popular, it’s important to understand that the differences in features are still significant. Whether you’re using analog CCTV security cameras, HD-over-coax or IP security cameras, there are key features that make a great multiple security camera system:

• High-quality resolution cameras - at least 4MP
• Remote live streaming from anywhere
• Motion detection alerts and alarms
• Sufficient on-site storage for easy video recording, viewing, and playback
• Security camera compatibility for easy upgrades
• Latest video compression technology
• Day and night surveillance
• Reliable technical support
• DIY setup and installation

Get Started at CCTV Security Pros

Security is imperative for any business, and the good thing is, video surveillance systems are becoming more effective and intelligent than ever. Features that were previously not the norm like motion sensors and automatic mobile notifications are now becoming standard in multiple security camera systems. If you’re looking to add new security cameras to your existing system or want to upgrade to a newer system, feel free to talk to us at CCTV Security Pros.

As a leading provider of  professional-grade security cameras and systems, we work closely with our valuable customers to help them create a custom security system that suits their needs. Contact us for all your professional surveillance solutions.