CCTV systems are closed circuit television systems. These are systems where the circuit is closed and all the elements are linked. CCTV systems seem to be a wonderful thing for security and threat detection. However they are not a magical cure-all. CCTV systems should be seen as components of an integrated security approach.

Define Your Situation

The best way to do this is to determine the purpose of browsing through available CCTV systems. Do you want to stop vandalism? Do you want to prevent theft? Do you want to monitor potential crime areas at night? This is an endless list and only you will know the reasons. Once you determine the problem, consider other solutions aside from CCTV systems. Will better lighting be a deterrent? Will more barriers prevent trespassers? Will an alarm or guards be necessary? Again, all these questions are best answered by you.

You can then shortlist the potential solutions by writing out their respective pros and cons. A lot of the times, you will end up with the need for multiple solutions. If CCTV systems are one of them, then you should certainly look at what is currently on the market.

Plan It Out

The first thing is to determine the basic system layout. You can do it yourself or have someone else do it. The important thing is that someone who is knowledgeable about the area and purpose of the system be involved. You can outsource the task to professionals but this will cost more. But if you are uncomfortable with the detailed work involve, taking that route is advised.

Next, describe the system. It should be brief but very accurate. After the description, write out how it will be operated. The next item would be a list of camera locations and mounting specifications. All these details can be further broken down into heading and sub-headings. It will all depend on the complexity of your planned set-up.

Checking It Twice

Once you have this checklist done, contact some vendors. Explain your needs and send them a copy of your plan. Have them suggest some options for you within your financial range. There should be a lot of options for you. Make sure you explain your needs very well. Do not be afraid to ask questions if something is not clear to you. After all the options are in, shortlist them further so you can make a decision among a few choices. You do not want to be overwhelmed by so many items and variables. You will make a better shopping decision if you narrow down your choices.

CCTV systems address certain types of needs. Make sure those are your needs when you consider CCTV. Do not waste all that effort only to find out you need a solution other than CCTV. CCTV is not a magic pill. It will not solve all your problems. However, it will solve the problems that it was designed for. So the best thing is to make sure you understand your problem.