Planning Your CCTV Installation
Proper planning is crucial for an effective surveillance system that meets security objectives while optimizing costs and maintenance.
Security Assessment
Begin with a thorough security assessment of your facility. Identify critical areas requiring surveillance including entry points, high-value asset storage, parking areas, and perimeter boundaries. Consider both current security needs and potential future expansion requirements.
Camera Selection
Choose cameras based on specific requirements for each location. Dome cameras work well for indoor areas and are vandal-resistant. Bullet cameras provide longer range and are suitable for outdoor perimeters. PTZ cameras offer flexibility for large areas requiring active monitoring. Consider resolution (minimum 2MP for identification), low-light capabilities, and weatherproofing ratings.
System Architecture
Decide between analog (HD-TVI, HD-CVI) and IP-based systems. IP cameras offer higher resolution and advanced features but require more network infrastructure. Hybrid systems allow gradual migration from existing analog installations. Plan for adequate storage capacity based on camera count, resolution, and retention requirements.
Camera Placement Guidelines
Strategic camera placement maximizes coverage while minimizing blind spots and equipment costs.
Coverage Angles
Mount cameras at 2.5-4 meters height for optimal face capture. Angle cameras slightly downward (15-30 degrees) to capture facial features. Avoid backlighting situations where subjects appear silhouetted. Consider lens focal length - wider angles cover more area but reduce detail at distance.
Entry Point Coverage
Position cameras to capture clear images of anyone entering or exiting. Install cameras on both sides of doors for approach and departure views. Ensure adequate lighting or use cameras with IR capabilities for 24/7 coverage.
Perimeter Surveillance
Use long-range cameras for perimeter monitoring with overlapping fields of view. Consider environmental factors including sun position, prevailing weather, and vegetation growth. Install cameras high enough to prevent tampering while maintaining useful viewing angles.
Physical Installation
Proper installation ensures reliable operation and longevity of your surveillance equipment.
Mounting Hardware
Use appropriate mounting brackets for each camera type and installation surface. Ensure mounts are rated for camera weight plus safety margin. For outdoor installations, use stainless steel hardware to prevent corrosion. Seal all cable entry points against moisture.
Cable Installation
For IP cameras, use Cat6 or better cabling for future-proofing. Maximum cable run is 100 meters for standard Ethernet. Use outdoor-rated cable for exposed runs. Install cables in conduit for protection against physical damage and environmental exposure. Label all cables at both ends for easy maintenance.
Power Considerations
Power over Ethernet (PoE) simplifies installation by combining data and power in one cable. Ensure PoE switch or injectors provide adequate wattage for all cameras. For remote cameras beyond PoE range, use separate power supplies or fiber connections with media converters.
Recording System Setup
The recording system is the heart of your surveillance infrastructure.
NVR/DVR Installation
Install recording equipment in a secure, climate-controlled location. Ensure adequate ventilation - recording systems generate significant heat. Use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to maintain recording during power outages. Size UPS for minimum 30 minutes runtime.
Storage Configuration
Configure RAID arrays for redundancy on critical systems. Calculate storage needs based on camera count, resolution, frame rate, and retention period. A typical 2MP camera at 15fps uses approximately 15GB per day with motion-activated recording. Plan for 20-30% overhead capacity.
Initial System Configuration
Configure recording schedules based on operational requirements. Set up motion detection zones to optimize storage usage. Configure video quality settings balancing detail requirements with storage capacity. Establish user accounts with appropriate permission levels.
Testing and Commissioning
Thorough testing ensures your system performs as expected before going live.
Camera Verification
Verify each camera provides clear images during day and night conditions. Test motion detection sensitivity and adjust to minimize false alarms. Check that all areas of interest are adequately covered without significant blind spots.
Recording Verification
Confirm all cameras are recording to the storage system. Verify playback functionality and export capabilities. Test remote viewing access from intended client devices. Document baseline system performance for future comparison.
Documentation
Create as-built documentation including camera locations, cable routes, and system configuration. Document IP addresses, passwords, and configuration settings in secure storage. Provide training to security personnel on system operation and basic troubleshooting.
