By Tensor Security | Sydney, Australia
Investing in a CCTV system is one of the smartest decisions a business can make. It helps deter theft, monitor operations, and enhance safety for staff and customers. But with so many camera types and features available, how do you know which is right for your business?
In this guide, we break down the key factors to help you make an informed decision and choose a CCTV system that fits your needs and budget.
1. Understand Your Security Goals
Start by asking: what are you trying to achieve?
- Prevent theft or vandalism?
- Monitor staff performance or customer traffic?
- Maintain safety in car parks or outdoor areas?
- Comply with insurance or regulatory requirements?
Your goals will determine the type, number, and placement of cameras.
2. Know the Different Types of CCTV Cameras
Here are the most common camera types used in Australian businesses:
- Bullet Cameras: Long and cylindrical, ideal for outdoor use and covering long distances.
- Dome Cameras: Discreet and vandal-resistant, suitable for retail and indoor spaces.
- PTZ Cameras (Pan-Tilt-Zoom): Can be remotely controlled to zoom in or track movement.
- Turret Cameras: A hybrid between dome and bullet, offering flexibility and clear night vision.
3. Choose the Right Resolution
Image quality is critical. A blurry image won’t help if you can’t identify faces or licence plates.
- 2MP (1080p): Suitable for general indoor use
- 4MP–5MP: Offers more detail for high-traffic areas
- 4K (8MP): Ideal for large spaces or capturing fine detail
4. Consider Night Vision and Low-Light Performance
Most security incidents occur at night, so infrared (IR) capability is a must. Look for cameras with:
- IR LEDs for night vision
- Low-light sensors (Starlight technology)
- True WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) for balanced exposure in shadows and bright light
5. Think About Storage and Recording
Your camera is only as good as your recorder. Choose between:
- NVR (Network Video Recorder): For IP cameras with high-definition video and remote access
- DVR (Digital Video Recorder): For analogue cameras with more basic features
Make sure your recorder supports enough channels (cameras) and has sufficient hard drive space. You may also consider cloud backup for added redundancy.
6. Don’t Forget About Remote Access
Modern CCTV systems allow you to view live or recorded footage from your phone or computer. This is essential for business owners who want to check in while off-site. Look for systems with user-friendly apps and encrypted remote access.
7. Professional vs DIY Installation
DIY kits can work for small businesses, but professional installation is worth it for:
- Larger properties
- Complex networks
- Ensuring cables, settings, and positioning are done correctly
At Tensor Security, we provide expert advice and can recommend installers if needed.
8. Make Sure the System is Scalable
Your business will grow—so should your security system. Choose a system that can be easily expanded with additional cameras or upgraded storage without needing a full replacement.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right CCTV system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by defining your goals, then match the right camera types, resolution, and recording method to your needs.
At Tensor Security, we supply only trusted brands and can help you bui