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Home > Finding and comparing video surveillance systems on BuyerZone.com
August 5, 2005
By: Alice Osborn
Businesses, non-profits and government agencies that use
BuyerZone.com to
find, compare, and purchase video surveillance systems gain a
strong cost advantage over others who don’t use this premier
online marketplace.
BuyerZone.com matches potential buyers
and suppliers together through bids, and also offers
well-written and well-researched product guides for its
users. By
finding the right video surveillance system at the
price to fit their needs, these organizations save time and
resources.
An overview for choosing a video security system
BuyerZone.com’s "Video Surveillance Buyer’s Guide" explains
the necessary elements for completing a buyer’s CCTV (closed
circuit television) system for deterring or stopping
criminals. First, a buyer has to find out how many cameras,
video monitors and recording devices are compatible for his
or her business, plus the buyer has to know what or who will
be monitored. Once cars or people are determined as the
security subjects, the buyer must choose a picture quality
option. Picture quality is determined by the recording frame
rate, which is either the speed of a VHS tape, and is called
“full motion” monitoring. Or the buyer may choose a slower
speed option, which will capture jerky images on the screen,
but will save tapes and hard drive space.
Also, the buyer
must decide how often the security system will be monitored.
Will it be checked if there is only a problem, or will a
staff person need to monitor the cameras while the business
is open to the public? Another factor in buying a video
security system is to determine if the cameras will be
obvious to onlookers, or if they will be hidden. If they are
hidden, the installation and monitoring costs will be
greater.
Choosing a security camera system BuyerZone.com also
reveals several tips on selecting a camera system, which is
the most important hardware component of video security
systems.
- All cameras should be operational and not be
look-a-likes that would fool customers.
- Cameras must only record silent video footage since
recording audio without permission is illegal.
- Businesses must inform their customers through signs
that there is a CCTV system.
- Buying expensive security cameras may not be the best
loss prevention policy. Perhaps that business could change
employee training methods or install better parking lot
lighting.
Installation and costs for a security system
Buyers should look for a multiple camera system that
includes installation and on-going support. According to
BuyerZone.com, an installed system should run around
$500-$1000 per camera, in addition to the recording device
costs. Here is a breakdown of the costs:
- Cameras run $150-$250, while hidden cameras are more
expensive. BuyerZone.com recommends purchasing name-brand
cameras for better long-term value.
- Recording devices range in price from $300 to $600 for
a VCR system, with a DVR system running from $800 to
$1500.
- Monitors are $150-500, while flat panel screens run
$300 to over $1000.
Purchasing a warranty is not recommended, however, the
buyer needs to set up a maintenance check-up plan with the
video security vendor, so that they can clean and test the
system on a regular basis.
Finding and comparing video security systems via BuyerZone.com will save time and money. But buyers come back
to this e-clearinghouse because of the free, helpful
information given for each category and for the proven
results.
About the Author
Alice Osborn is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
Also See:
[ Digital Video Recorder (DVR) Server ]
[ Digital Video Recorder Software ]
[ Video Security Multiplexer ]
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