Are you planning to install a CCTV system for your business? Have you decided on the number of cameras or the type of system you want? How much do you know about the cost of a CCTV system? 

In this blog post, we will explore topics related to the cost of CCTV cameras, the advantages of CCTV for your business and how to go about buying the right CCTV system.

CCTV systems have become ubiquitous and choosing one may get overwhelming as there are thousands of combinations out there. On top of that, most vendors try to sell a whole lot of bells and whistles that you don’t really need. 

You need to understand the important factors that matter when buying a CCTV system and the cost vs value aspect of different types of CCTV cameras to make an informed decision.

Things to Look for When Buying CCTV Systems

There are several factors for you to consider when choosing a CCTV system that is ideal for your business. However, the first thing you need to work on is your specific requirements. 

Think of it as an investment that will keep your business secure and may also serve certain other purposes. 

There isn’t a standard CCTV system that works for every business. Every business is unique and sometimes, cheaper and smaller cameras are perfect to secure a business but in other cases, you may need several cameras to get all the security you need. 

Here is what you should look at when researching CCTV systems:

Cameras

There are all kinds of cameras available for CCTV systems including analogue cameras that are available for less than $100 to high-definition cameras that may cost several hundred dollars. The key to choosing the right camera is to determine the features you need.

Recording

All the feed captured by the camera has to be recorded somewhere. You have a few options including the popular DVR system or an off-site storage system. A DVR system is an on-site recording device which means it is kept on the premises though you will need some additional hardware. 

Monitors

If you want to watch the feed from the cameras, you will obviously need to invest in a monitor. Monitors are cheap these days. In fact, most systems can show the feed from multiple cameras on the screen.

Software

You will also need software that connects all the hardware. There are all kinds of software solutions. Some systems have an annual licensing fee whereas others are a one-time fee. 

Installation and maintenance

When it comes to installation, a complicated system is going to take much longer compared to a one-camera system. Also, think about the maintenance aspect. You will also need technicians if something goes wrong or stops working. 

How Much Does It Cost to Install a CCTV System 

What CCTV Can Do for Your Business

There are several advantages of having a CCTV system for your business. Here’s a quick list:

  1. It acts as a crime deterrent as criminals tend to avoid premises where they can see CCTV cameras
  2. It helps you to keep track of activities at your premises
  3. A CCTV system allows you to collect evidence in case a crime happens on your property
  4. You can also use footage from CCTV cameras to settle disputes among staff or between staff and customers
  5. You can also use it to keep a check on your staff as well as customers and make sure things are running smoothly
  6. It helps in preventing shoplifting to a large extent
  7. It helps in preventing employee theft
  8. Studying the footage can also help you to enhance the customer experience as you can monitor client behaviour

The Cost of CCTV Cameras

There are several factors that affect the cost of CCTV cameras. You can get CCTV cameras for less than $100 but you can also spend upwards of $300 for high-quality cameras meant for commercial establishments. Here is a list of the factors that affect the price of these cameras:

  • Digital or analogue
  • Resolution of the camera
  • Low light capture capability
  • Varifocal or fixed lens camera
  • Camera brand

 

Number of cameras

Digital cameras cost more compared to their analogue counterparts but the quality is far better and they can also transmit footage over the internet. Resolution refers to the clarity you will get with the CCTV system and as a result, high-resolution cameras tend to cost more.

Not all cameras are capable of capturing accurate images in low light. Therefore, infrared cameras are the way to go as they capture technology and starlight technology. Cameras with starlight are expensive compared to those equipped with infrared sensors as starlight is a better technology. 

The lens also affects the cost of CCTV cameras. In most cases, fixed lens cameras are appropriate for use in commercial establishments when the camera is placed/positioned strategically.

Brand also plays a role. It is always better to choose a reliable brand over an inexpensive or no-name brand to ensure reliability and longer service life.

Final Thoughts

Every business needs to think about security and a CCTV camera system is one of the most cost-effective security solutions available to businesses. You can also use footage from your CCTV system to increase efficiency and get insights on customer behaviour. 

Since there are so many CCTV systems available on the market, it is recommended to engage the services of an experienced CCTV system installer to make an informed decision on choosing the right system for your business premises.

Innertelligence: CCTV Installation Experts

InnerTelligence is the premier security solutions provider in Australia. We have helped hundreds of businesses make their premises more secure with the right CCTV systems. Every business is different and our experts will help you design a unique CCTV setup to make your business premises more secure.

Please give us a call at 1300 312 184 or leave an enquiry to learn more about integrated gym access control and CCTV security solutions today!