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Security Systems2023-09-12
Security Camera Mistakes to Avoid Before Installation
Avoid common security camera installation mistakes including poor placement, insufficient storage, network bottlenecks, lighting issues, and lack of testing before finalizing placement.
Placement mistakes
- Mounting cameras too high. You get great views of the tops of heads but cannot identify faces.
- Pointing cameras at bright lights or reflective surfaces that wash out the image.
- Not checking the view at night. An area well lit during the day may be pitch black after dark.
- Forgetting to account for seasonal changes: foliage in summer, snow accumulation in winter.
Storage and network mistakes
- Underestimating storage needs. More cameras and higher resolution all increase storage requirements.
- Using a single hard drive with no redundancy. A drive failure means you lose all footage.
- Not planning network cable routes before mounting cameras, leading to messy exposed wiring.
- Underestimating PoE power requirements. Each camera draws power from the switch.
Process mistakes
- Not testing camera views during both day and night before finalizing placement.
- Not documenting camera locations, IP addresses, and NVR settings.
- Not training staff on how to view and export footage. If only one person knows how, the system fails when they are unavailable.
- No remote access plan. Decide who needs remote access and set it up securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common security camera mistake?
Poor placement, especially mounting cameras too high or not testing views at night. Test every camera angle during both day and night before finalizing installation.
Should I run cables or use wireless cameras?
Wired PoE cameras are more reliable, do not depend on Wi-Fi signal strength, and deliver power and data through a single cable. For permanent installations, wired is recommended.
Need help?
Maine CyberTech helps Maine businesses avoid costly security camera mistakes with professional system design, placement planning, and installation. Contact us before you buy equipment.
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