Start with the places you want to watch
Before looking at models, walk around your shop or home and list the places that matter: the entrance, the billing counter, the stock room, the parking area and the back door. The number of cameras and their positions matter more than the brand name.
A single camera at the right height at the entrance is often more useful than three cameras pointing at empty walls.
Dome, bullet or Wi-Fi camera?
The camera type depends on where it will be fitted.
- Dome cameras suit indoors and ceilings. They are hard to tamper with and look neat.
- Bullet cameras suit outdoor walls, gates and parking. They are weatherproof and easy to aim.
- PTZ cameras can turn and zoom, and suit large yards and showrooms.
- Wi-Fi cameras are quick to fix at home or in a small shop, but a wired system is more reliable for recording all day.
How much resolution do you need?
Higher resolution gives a clearer face or number plate, but needs more storage and a better recorder. For a small shop or a home, 2 MP to 4 MP cameras are usually enough. For wide outdoor areas, higher resolution helps when you zoom in on the recording.
Night vision and lighting
Many break-ins happen at night, so check how the camera sees in the dark. Infrared night vision shows black and white pictures in darkness. Some cameras also have a small light so the picture stays in colour. Tell your installer how dark the place gets.
How many days of recording do you want?
The recorder (DVR or NVR) stores video on a hard disk. The number of days you can keep depends on the number of cameras, the resolution and the size of the disk. Decide first how many days you want, for example 15 or 30, and ask for the disk to be sized for that.
Also ask for a surveillance-grade hard disk. Normal computer disks are not made to record all day, every day.
Mobile viewing and backup
Most systems today can be viewed on your phone. Ask the installer to set up the app and show you how to play back footage. Keep a note of the recorder password, and change the default password on day one.
Installation matters as much as the camera
Good cable work, proper power supplies and correct aiming decide whether a system works well for years. After installation, ask for a short demonstration and test the recording together.
Talk to the Nivano team
Planning a CCTV system in Kozhikode (Calicut)? Tell us your shop or home layout and we will suggest the right cameras and storage.