Effective video surveillance goes beyond just having cameras in place. To truly safeguard your business, it’s crucial to set up and maintain these systems correctly. Being informed about common video surveillance mistakes can significantly enhance your security measures, ensuring that your cameras provide the peace of mind you seek.
Many beginners make avoidable errors when installing surveillance systems for the first time. This guide aims to help you steer clear of those pitfalls, ensuring that your investment in security delivers the best possible results.
At Scout Security, we have extensive experience assisting local businesses in enhancing their security through advanced solutions including video surveillance and monitoring. We know the importance of preventing criminal activity in your business and want to ensure you maximize your security investments. Contact us to know how!
Why Knowing What Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Security Cameras is Crucial
In this modern age, video surveillance and cybersecurity go hand in hand. While security cameras are essential for protecting your business, they can also be targets for hackers if not properly secured.
It’s crucial to recognize that the systems meant to enhance your security can also pose significant risks if not adequately protected against cyber threats.
When setting up your video surveillance, you need to understand both physical and digital security. Ignoring this connection can leave your system vulnerable. Just installing cameras isn’t enough – you need to avoid common mistakes that could weaken your security.
By spotting and fixing these common errors, you can keep your business safer. Staying on top of these issues ensures your surveillance system remains strong and reliable, ready to protect you against evolving security threats.
Also Read: 15 Tips & Best Practices for Securing Your Commercial Property
25 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Video Surveillance Systems
One of the biggest mistakes is not hiring a professional security company. Partnering with experts for installation and management can save you time and money which leads to more benefits. Many less experienced suppliers also make other mistakes that can result in wasted resources and poor performance.
That said, you can ensure your surveillance system meets your security needs successfully by steering clear of these 25 common pitfalls:
- Inadequate Planning
- Using Residential Security Cameras
- Choosing the Wrong Camera
- Relying Solely on One 360-degree Camera
- Using Wireless Cameras Everywhere
- Considering Thermal Cameras as Video Surveillance
- Expecting HD Security Footage 24/7
- Believing in Image Enhancement Software
- Inadequate Video Storage & Recorder
- Forgetting the Power Source
- Poor Hardware Quality
- Poor Camera Positioning
- Blocking IR LED Lights
- Outdated Security Camera Software
- Ignoring Your Cybersecurity Infrastructure
- Not Considering System Integration
- Not Weatherproofing Your Connections
- Overlooking Privacy Laws
- Using Only Cameras for Security
- Poor or DIY Installation
- Disregarding Real-Time Notifications
- Underestimating Security System Costs
- Failing to Test Your System
- Neglecting Maintenance & Upgrades
- Neglecting Continuous Improvement
#1. Inadequate Planning
If you start installing cameras without a clear plan, you’ll find yourself directionless and unprepared for security issues. It’s essential to set specific goals and objectives for your surveillance system.
Whether you want to deter theft, monitor access points, or boost overall safety, having clear aims helps you use your resources wisely and address critical security needs.
#2. Using Residential Security Cameras
Another mistake is using residential security cameras for commercial purposes.
Although residential and commercial cameras both serve to monitor activities, they are designed differently.
Multiple commercial cameras are typically placed inside to keep an eye on employees and customers for the purpose of preventing theft and other crimes. These cameras are usually more durable, with weather-resistant coatings, vandal-proof casings, and a stable wired power source.
Residential cameras like porch and doorbell cameras, however, focus more on outside areas to deter intruders. Using residential cameras in a business setting can lead to inadequate coverage and reduced security effectiveness.
Also Read: What Is CCTV Monitoring and How Does It Work?
#3. Choosing the Wrong Camera
Selecting the right camera is crucial, as not all cameras are suitable for every situation.
Your choices range from dome cameras for indoor use to bullet cameras for outdoor environments. This is why you should assess your surveillance needs carefully so you can choose the right options. For instance, do you need advanced motion detection, low-light capability, 360-vision, weather resistance, and/or high-definition zoom?
Matching camera features to your unique environment and business risks ensures your security system performs optimally and effectively. Otherwise, you might end up with poor video quality, blind spots, or a system that’s too complicated to manage.
#4. Relying Solely on One 360-degree Camera
You might think that installing a single 360-degree camera in each room is a cost-effective solution. But while 360-degree cameras have their advantages, they often fail to cover all angles adequately. For instance, shelves, furniture, and other obstacles can obstruct their view which leaves blind spots that compromise security.
Instead, consider using multiple cameras, such as dome cameras, strategically placed to cover all areas. You can place one dome camera in the northwest corner and another in the southeast corner of a room to ensure comprehensive coverage. This can help effectively monitor all angles and minimize blind spots.
#5. Using Wireless Cameras Everywhere
Wireless cameras offer flexibility, but relying on them exclusively for your entire system can lead to several issues.
First, wireless cameras can suffer from spotty and laggy performance, resulting in blocks of missed footage. They are also more vulnerable to cyber-attacks and require frequent battery changes which can be inconvenient.
Moreover, while wireless cameras are useful for extending surveillance coverage where cables can’t reach and for temporary or mobile setups, they should complement hard-wired cameras rather than replace them.
Hard-wired cameras provide more reliable and secure footage, ensuring continuous coverage even if the wireless network fails. Using a mix of both types allows you to balance convenience and reliability, ensuring a robust surveillance system.
(Read a more detailed discussion about wired and wireless cameras here.)
Also Read: 5 Major Differences Between Monitored vs. Unmonitored Security Systems
#6. Considering Thermal Cameras as Video Surveillance
One significant misconception is assuming that thermal cameras are a comprehensive part of a video surveillance system.
While thermal cameras are valuable for intrusion detection due to their ability to sense heat and movement, they fall short in capturing detailed visuals.
These cameras excel in low-light conditions, making them ideal for detecting the presence of intruders. However, they lack the capability to provide detailed information such as clothing and facial features.
To counteract this limitation, you should pair thermal cameras with motion detection lights and high-definition cameras to ensure comprehensive coverage. For instance, if an intruder breaches your premises, a standard security camera will provide identifiable details, whereas a thermal camera will merely signal an intrusion.
#7. Expecting HD Security Footage 24/7
Expecting your cameras to continuously record in HD without considering their intended use and placement can lead to unrealistic expectations.
Another frequent mistake is expecting high-definition (HD) security footage at all times. Security cameras are typically designed to record in higher resolution during active periods and switch to a lower resolution when there is no activity. This functionality allows you to maximize storage while still capturing essential activity.
Additionally, not all cameras are created equal in their ability to recognize faces or read license plates from any distance. For example, a 2MP bullet camera might not capture fine details if installed too far from the target. To address this, you must tailor each camera to its specific task by positioning and adjusting the settings accordingly.
This is another reason why you should clearly define your goals before investing in any cameras. If your primary objective is to read license plates, invest in cameras specifically designed for that purpose.
Also Read: 21 Benefits of Remote Real-Time Video Monitoring for Businesses: A Comprehensive Guide
#8. Believing in Image Enhancement Software
You might think that if your 2MP camera doesn’t capture clear details, you can simply enhance the images later using software. This misconception is often fueled by TV shows and movies where investigators magically enhance blurry images to reveal clear details.
However, in reality, no software can create new pixels that were not captured by the camera in the first place. Digital zoom only enlarges existing pixels, resulting in a more pixelated image. (You can read a related article about the untold secrets of forensic video enhancement here.)
To capture high-quality footage from the start, you need to invest in high-resolution cameras.
Cameras with higher resolutions, such as 4K, provide much clearer and detailed images compared to lower-resolution cameras. This difference is especially noticeable when you need to zoom in on specific details. Additionally, consider your camera’s infrared capabilities to ensure you get clear images at night.
#9. Inadequate Video Storage & Recorder
An important aspect of video surveillance is having adequate storage and retrieval systems. You should base this on how many cameras you are planning to install and how long you want video footage to be kept.
One common mistake is not investing in a recorder with a large enough capacity. For instance, if you start with four 2MP cameras, you might be tempted to purchase a four-channel 2MP NVR (Network Video Recorder). However, this can limit your system’s scalability and flexibility.
It’s wiser to invest in an eight-channel 4K NVR even if you only have a few cameras initially. This approach allows you to add more cameras or upgrade to higher-quality cameras in the future without needing to replace your entire system.
Helpful Tip: Easy footage retrieval and sharing is equally important. Having crystal-clear footage will be useless if you don’t have a retrieval plan.
#10. Forgetting the Power Source
Another crucial aspect often overlooked is the power source for your cameras. Ensuring a reliable power supply is essential because an inoperable camera is worse than the absence of cameras.
Invest in a dependable power source and consider backup batteries to keep your cameras operational during blackouts. This precaution is particularly important since crime rates often rise during power outages.
Also Read: Security 101: Types of Commercial Security Systems & How to Choose
#11. Poor Hardware Quality
Choosing high-quality hardware is another important consideration. Many make the mistake of not planning for future scalability which can limit your system’s capabilities over time.
Ensure that your system can be easily upgraded and consider integrating audio technology. However, be aware of legal requirements regarding audio recording in your area, as captured audio can be crucial in legal scenarios.
#12. Poor Camera Positioning
Positioning your cameras correctly is important for effective surveillance. Poor placement can render even the most advanced cameras useless.
To avoid these mistakes, here are security camera positioning tips you can follow:
- Choose the Right Locations: When installing your cameras, you must ensure they have a clear line of sight to the areas you want to monitor.
- Balance Visibility and Discreteness: Consider using both visible and hidden cameras. Visible cameras can deter potential intruders, while discreet ones can monitor activities without being noticed.
- Avoid Poor Angles: A camera should capture clear images of people rather than just hats, hairstyles, or the sky. Make minor adjustments to the angle to enhance the view and capture relevant details.
- Adjust for Environmental Factors: Be mindful of shadows and obstructions like trees or signs to ensure they provide clear images throughout the day.
- Optimal Height Matters: Position your cameras at a height that prevents tampering and provides a clear view. Too high, and they might miss important details and be exposed to the weather. Too low, and they are vulnerable to being blocked or damaged, especially by criminals.
- Consider Lighting Conditions: Cameras are sensitive to light. Avoid backlighting and ensure the camera is not blinded by headlights or direct sunlight. Proper lighting will prevent silhouettes and unclear images.
- Secure Mounting: Place cameras in secure locations to prevent theft and tampering. High placements can deter criminals from disabling your cameras.
- Think Like a Criminal: Position your cameras strategically and consider how a potential intruder might try to evade detection. Professional installers often use this approach to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Use Real-Time Adjustments: Utilize mobile applications to adjust camera angles during installation. This can save you time and ensure that the camera is positioned correctly without repeatedly checking from your computer.
#13. Blocking IR LED Lights
For night-time surveillance, you need cameras with infrared (IR) capabilities.
A common mistake is placing cameras where their IR lights are blocked.
These lights are essential for capturing images in the dark. If anything blocks them, your camera won’t work well at night.
Blocked IR lights will cause the lights to bounce back to the camera, leading to washed-out or foggy images. Since IR light is invisible to the human eye, it’s easy to overlook this during installation.
To avoid this, ensure the IR lights have a clear path. If necessary, use a wall mount or junction box to extend the camera away from obstructions. Turret cameras are also a good alternative, as they have fewer IR reflection issues (e.g. reduced IR glare).
Also Read: 13 Benefits of Construction Site Surveillance and CCTV Monitoring
#14. Outdated Security Camera Software
Your security camera system’s performance depends on its software.
Incompatible or outdated software can render even top-of-the-line cameras useless.
Regular updates to your software are crucial for compatibility and security. These updates keep your system operating smoothly and incorporate the latest protections and features.
#15. Ignoring Your Cybersecurity Infrastructure
Rushing to install video surveillance without strengthening your cybersecurity can expose your network to risks.
Imagine setting up advanced cameras but neglecting to update your firewall or fix network issues. This leaves your system open to cyber threats and sensitive data at risk. Avoid this by conducting a cybersecurity check before installation. You can use strong, unique passwords for each camera and keep software updated to prevent cyberattacks.
#16. Not Considering System Integration
Your security cameras should work seamlessly with other security systems and devices. Ignoring integration means missing out on a more efficient, responsive system.
Ensure your cameras can connect with devices like smart lights, locks, and alarms. For example, a voice command could display camera views, or lights and locks could respond automatically to an intrusion to trap burglars. This integration enhances your security system, making it more effective and easier to manage.
#17. Not Weatherproofing Your Connections
When setting up outdoor security cameras, it’s essential to weatherproof all connections.
While you can buy cameras that are built to withstand harsh weather (e.g. IP67-rated), your Ethernet cables need protection too.
Weatherproofing is simple. Camera suppliers often provide grommets for this purpose. Just push the Ethernet cable through the grommet before connecting it to the camera. This keeps your connections safe from environmental factors. Thus, ensuring your system stays functional during bad weather.
Also Read: Inventory Shrinkage: Causes and Ways to Prevent It in Retail Settings and Warehouses
#18. Overlooking Privacy Laws
Ignoring privacy laws when installing surveillance can lead to legal issues and damage your reputation. Know the surveillance laws in your area to ensure compliance.
For instance, be careful where you aim your cameras. Recording people without their consent can result in legal consequences. Similarly, secure video footage by using encrypted storage to protect recordings that need to be safeguarded along with the privacy of other people.
#19. Using Only Cameras for Security
Relying solely on cameras isn’t enough for comprehensive security. Enhance your system with alarms, motion sensors, and good lighting. These additional measures create layers of defense, making it harder for intruders to get through.
#20. Poor or DIY Installation
A major mistake in setting up a video surveillance system is trying to do it yourself.
While DIY might seem cheaper, it’s only suitable for very small setups, like a single camera in a tiny shop. For more complex systems involving several cameras or advanced features, hiring a professional is crucial.
Professionals ensure your system works correctly, saving you time and reducing stress. Although doing it yourself may seem tempting, the potential errors can compromise your system’s effectiveness.
Another mistake related to this one is using cheap cables.
Cutting costs with low-quality or homemade cables can lead to issues like poor video quality or camera failures. Given your investment, it’s important to use high-quality cables that match your cameras.
Avoid cables made with copper clad as they often result in shorter runs and poor video quality. Opt for solid copper cables for better performance, especially for long runs over 100 feet. (Read more about copper clad vs. solid copper cables here.)
In addition, be cautious about using cables that are too long. Running a single cable over a long distance can lead to signal loss. The general maximum distance for Power over Ethernet (PoE) cables should be about 300 feet. If you need to go further, you can use a PoE extender.
Also Read: Warehouse Theft Prevention: 19 Best Surveillance Practices
#21. Disregarding Real-Time Notifications
Ignoring real-time notifications is another major mistake. While it might be tempting to avoid constant alerts, you need them for genuine security threats.
Set up notifications to alert you only about real dangers like you would treat important phone calls. This keeps you informed without being overwhelmed by false alarms.
#22. Underestimating Security System Costs
Cutting corners on video surveillance might save you money upfront, but it can cost you dearly in the long run. Many businesses underestimate the true expense, leading to subpar technology and compromised security. Frugality is good, but ensure your budget includes high-quality materials that last.
Think of your security system as an investment. Conduct a thorough cost analysis that includes both initial setup and ongoing maintenance.
Cheap cameras found online are often designed for home use and lack professional monitoring capabilities. These require more maintenance and are prone to frequent breakdowns. Opt for quality equipment and professional installation to ensure reliability, quick repairs when needed, and long-term savings.
Also Read: A Complete Guide: How Much Do Remote Video Monitoring Services Cost?
#23. Failing to Test Your System
Don’t assume your security system is perfect once installed. Regular testing is essential to ensure your cameras work properly.
Frequently review footage and adjust settings as needed. This routine check-up keeps your system healthy and effective, catching issues early and ensuring optimal performance.
Also Read: 17 Benefits of Video Surveillance in Manufacturing Facilities
#24. Neglecting Maintenance & Upgrades
Regular maintenance and updates are another crucial factor for a reliable surveillance system.
Dust, cobwebs, and outdated software can cause failures. Set up a schedule to clean camera lenses and update firmware. This simple routine keeps your system functioning well and reduces vulnerability to hacking.
In addition, neglecting maintenance leads to disrepair, making your equipment almost useless. Partner with a security provider who offers maintenance and upgrade services.
#25. Neglecting Continuous Improvement
Security threats evolve constantly. This is why businesses that don’t update their security measures risk falling behind.
Continuously improve your system by adding cameras, adopting new technologies, and updating protocols. Regular assessments and updates also keep you ahead of potential threats, maintaining strong security.
Also Read:
- 9 Proven Ways to Prevent Retail Theft With Security Cameras
- 19 Effective Retail Loss Prevention Strategies and Best Practices
- 23 Benefits of Outsourcing Video Monitoring and Surveillance Services
Hire Scout Security to Avoid These Video Surveillance Mistakes
With the help of Scout Security, we can transform your security cameras into more than just devices with the right measures. We tailor our services to meet your unique needs, ensuring you achieve your goals with our advanced video surveillance solutions.
Reach out to us now for a free consultation and let us create a resilient security infrastructure for your business in the Colorado Springs and Denver Metro areas!
