CCTV is an invaluable security tool for businesses of all shapes and sizes. In fact, research shows that millions of new businesses install CCTV systems every year, with the number of companies implementing such surveillance security cameras increasing from 47 million in 2015 to around 85 million in recent years.
As we covered in What’s CCTV & How Can It Help Your Business?, CCTV systems are simple to use, and thanks to their comprehensive view of your facility, they help keep a handle on crime like few other security systems can.
As a bonus, CCTV’s functionality isn’t limited to security. Check out 5 Innovative Ways to Use CCTV to get the scoop on the tech’s full functionality!
When your CCTV goes down, though, it can feel like you’ve lost one of your business’s “limbs,” so to speak. Don’t fret because Aufderworld is here to help!
Let’s dive into a few common CCTV problems and break down how you can solve them.
Overexposure
When looking into your CCTV camera, does it feel like you’re staring into the sun? You’ve probably had it installed far too close to a light source.
Even the reflection of such a light source can prove problematic in the right situation. This isn’t just irritating – it’s a security compromise, as it makes your CCTV next to nonfunctional in that particular location.
The fix for this is a mechanical one. Either you move your light to avoid exposure or reflection or re-angle your security camera.
If you’re stumped on how to do either, a CCTV cameras installation pro can help you troubleshoot.
Alarming When No Threat Is Present
This probably takes the cake for the most irritating CCTV issue. Rest assured, your space isn’t haunted!
Your CCTV camera system is most likely simply suffering from poor maintenance. A lack of upkeep, just like with any piece of tech, can and will cause a finicky system.
But it’s not the only culprit. Misadjusted sensitivity settings can also alarm your CCTV camera systems at nonexistent threats.
Many cameras require different calibrations for day and nighttime use due to the lack of light in the latter, so be sure to adjust them accordingly.
Camera Failing to Record
A camera that picks up motion but fails to archive the footage for viewing – or fails to pick up motion altogether – is almost as good as a useless one.
Unfortunately, this problem can have various causes and is thus best attended to by a commercial security camera system pro.
It could be something as simple as a loose cable or as complicated as a necessary recalibration of your motion settings.
Poor Image Quality
CCTV cameras may suffer from poor image quality, making it challenging to identify details, faces, or objects. This can hinder security efforts and investigations, as crucial information may be missed or distorted.
To improve image quality, businesses can ensure that their cameras have adequate resolution and are positioned correctly. Regular maintenance, including lens cleaning and focus adjustments, is essential.
You can also try upgrading to high-definition (HD) or even ultra HD (4K) cameras can significantly enhance image clarity and detail.
Insufficient Surveillance Coverage
Some areas of your business property may have inadequate CCTV coverage, leaving blind spots that intruders can exploit or lead to missed incidents.
Insufficient coverage compromises overall security, so it’s always important to conduct a thorough site survey to identify blind spots and areas needing better coverage.
Be on the lookout to adjust camera angles and add or reposition cameras strategically to cover critical areas. Utilize a combination of wide-angle and zoom cameras to ensure comprehensive surveillance coverage.
The important thing is always to review and update camera placement as the security needs of your business evolve.
Storage Capacity Constraints
CCTV systems generate significant amounts of video data, requiring adequate storage capacity to store all your surveillance footage securely.
Insufficient storage can lead to video loss, overwriting critical footage, or limited retention periods, hindering investigations or compliance requirements.
Businesses should continue evaluating their storage requirements based on camera resolution, frame rate, and retention period. Consider implementing network-attached storage (NAS) devices or cloud-based storage solutions for scalable and secure video storage.
You can also optimize storage by utilizing video compression technologies or setting up motion-triggered recording instead of continuous recording.
Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities
CCTV systems connected to networks can be susceptible to cybersecurity breaches, leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or camera manipulation. Such incidents can compromise privacy, data integrity, and overall security.
Every business needs to Implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect CCTV systems.
This starts with incorporating all of the following cybersecurity protocols into your CCTV maintenance strategy:
● Frequently change default passwords on cameras and other networked devices.
● Regularly update firmware and software to patch security vulnerabilities.
● Secure the network infrastructure with firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems.
● Segment the CCTV network from the main business network to minimize the impact of a breach.
● Train employees on best practices for maintaining strong security, such as recognizing phishing attempts and avoiding suspicious links or downloads.
The more cybersecurity tactics you implement, the more peace of mind you’ll inherit when it comes to knowing your CCTV system is safeguarded from cyber-criminals.
Aufderworld: One Source for All CCTV System Help
No matter the problem, our AV consultants have the expertise to solve it in a jiffy!
Give our Minneapolis office a call today at 763-233-7700.