Safety is a top priority for any business, but how do you achieve that goal? If you’re in Tampa, CCTV cameras are a worthy consideration that can protect your property and people from danger in a quickly growing city. While Tampa is full of new businesses and opportunities, the population surge means an increase in potential wrongdoers. You may wonder where to start — after all, there are countless options, and determining which one will work best for your needs isn’t always intuitive. This guide will help you make informed decisions, including which cameras to consider and how to select a security firm to assist you throughout the process.
What is CCTV? The acronym stands for Closed-Circuit Television, but it’s also commonly referred to as video surveillance. CCTV cameras are ubiquitous in our society; by some estimates, the industry is worth $32 billion. There are countless benefits to security cameras. Some of the most appealing is the increased safety they provide; research has found that properties with visible surveillance cameras are significantly less likely to be targeted by criminals. Additionally, cameras often provide peace of mind for staff and visitors, helping them feel safe while on your property. They can even lead to insurance discounts, saving you money in the long run.
Types of Tampa CCTV Cameras
There are several types of security cameras, and determining which one best suits your needs is much easier with the help of an expert. Hiring an experienced security firm is always a smart idea. Rather than having to do all the research and make purchasing decisions yourself, you can trust them to choose the best path, allowing you to focus on other parts of your business. When you know your business is in good hands, the process becomes much easier. Still, knowing the options available to you can help you feel better informed throughout the purchasing, installation, and maintenance process.
Bullet: Best for long-range use, can capture footage from a distance
Dome: Similar to bullet cameras, more discreet, often used indoors
Turret: good night vision and wide coverage, mountable anywhere
PTZ: highly desirable due to flexibility; can pan, tilt, and zoom
Fisheye: 360-degree view, offers a panoramic picture
Wired vs. Wireless
Once you’ve selected the cameras you’ll use, it’s time to decide whether you’ll opt for a wired, wireless, or mixed setup. Again, a security firm will have the best answers for you — they are equipped to answer your questions and identify which systems would work best for you. However, educating yourself on the similarities and differences between the two can prove beneficial. Some people incorrectly assume that wireless cameras are automatically preferable because they’re often more technologically advanced. In reality, wired camera setups are sometimes a preferable option, depending on a business’s priorities.
Wired cameras have several benefits. They’re not affected if the Wi-Fi goes down or a business loses power, and they provide increased security because there’s no fear of hacking. The most significant downside is that these cameras are less flexible and more complex to install. Additionally, they’re not ideal for rented or leased buildings because of the complexity of the installation process.
Wireless cameras are also beneficial for several reasons. They are easier to move, which can be a benefit for a business that isn’t sure whether its camera installation locations will be permanent. They also allow for easier remote access viewing. On the other hand, they are more vulnerable to malicious actors, which can be disastrous. Additionally, they rely on a stable Wi-Fi signal.
Finding The Right Security Partner
Regardless of which systems work for you, you’ll need a security partner who specializes in Tampa CCTV cameras to ensure the job is done effectively. Integrated Security Consultants is a full-service electronic security firm installing security cameras, alarm systems, fire alarms, access control systems, telephone entry, and much more. We live by our core values of Integrity, Solutions, and Customer Service — all while protecting people, property, and profits. Call us at 813-254-0033 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.