Is your business in the market for security cameras? The first thing you should consider is whether you want a professional-grade system or consumer-grade cameras.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the problems with consumer-grade cameras and how owning a professional-grade security system that is installed by certified technicians is usually the way to go for most businesses.
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Understanding the difference
On the surface, to those not directly involved with the security industry, professional-grade solutions and consumer-grade cameras seem to offer the same advantages and capabilities for your business. However, this is usually not true.
Professional-grade security systems typically consist of an IP camera, a network video recorder (NVR), and infrastructure including the network, video management software, and a display for your NVR.
When it comes to consumer-grade security cameras, all that comes in the box are your cameras. That means it’s up to you to figure out how to place the cameras and view them from an application that most likely makes you pay for storage fees and other perks that were advertised on the box.
This brings us to one of the biggest problems with consumer-grade cameras: they are advertised as “professional solutions.” The fact is that consumer-grade cameras are not suitable for most business environments. Problems with false or tricky advertising and other misinformation online often lead businesses to mistakenly use these consumer-grade recording devices. However, due to the fact that most consumer security camera companies require a paid service just to receive a fraction of the benefits available to professional-grade cameras, most businesses end up switching to professional surveillance systems at a loss.
The Problem with Consumer-Grade Security Cameras
Since every brand of consumer-grade security camera seems to offer some version of the phrases “high-resolution” and “night vision”, it can be difficult to sort through all of these claims.
The fact of the matter is, most of these cameras don’t perform at the advertised resolution and many of the features are often buggy at best.
So if what you’re really looking for is high-resolution or night vision, you probably shouldn’t buy a consumer-grade security camera. The reason we say this is because these terms can be loosely defined. Although “night-vision” with infrared sensors can be useful, this technology is out of date. For real quality night vision, professional-grade security systems offer full-color footage even at night thanks to new technology like Wide Dynamic Range and/or Friendly-Lighting LEDs. Furthermore, you’ll be able to view these cameras at full resolution on any device you want, whether it’s a desktop computer, tablet, laptop, smartphone, or any other device on which you can connect to the web.
If you walk into any retail store like Best Buy, Home Depot, or Walmart to buy these consumer-grade security cameras, look up at the ceiling. You’ll notice that they use a white dome camera that is larger than your average consumer camera in each aisle – these are professional-grade cameras. Businesses that sell consumer-grade products know who the products are for: consumers with small to average-sized homes. That’s why they don’t use the consumer-grade security cameras they sell to watch and protect their store – these cameras simply can’t get the job done.
What is a professional-grade security system? What are the benefits?
Most businesses that opt out of professional-grade security systems are doing so because their long-term goal is a lower total cost of ownership, but they are mistaken. The consumer-based DIY security market is filled with cameras where the device only works with one video management software and vice versa. That means if a camera goes down or breaks, you’re stuck going back to the same manufacturer (assuming they are still in business and have the same cameras).
One of the best things about using professional grade systems is that they are open-platform – which means they can work with dozens of other surveillance camera brands. That means you’ll be able to pick and choose which cameras are best for specific applications – based on the advice of your experienced installer. On top of that, open-source platforms allow you to integrate your security cameras with other security technology like access control systems, video analytics, better notification systems, and much more.
Furthermore, commercial-grade cameras are designed and built for high-performance applications and are more efficient due to higher-quality components.
Even though professional-grade security systems aren’t found in the big box and warehouse stores, they are still directly available to the public. Most businesses choose to consult with a security company that has certified installers before deciding upon a commercial-grade security camera system.
Professional-grade security cameras and installation services
According to the annual retail theft survey, professional-grade security cameras have helped lead to over 240 million dollars recovered from shoplifters and dishonest employees in 2021.
Professional-grade security systems provide better quality, reliability, and functionality which is required by businesses, schools, hospitals, government organizations, and commercial organizations.
Do you want help selecting the best security system for your business? Camera Security Now has certified technicians with years of experience in installing security systems for various businesses, schools, governments, and commercial organizations. Ask for a free consultation.
This content was originally published here.
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