08 Dec Commercial CCTV System Bedfordshire
Upgrading Your Commercial CCTV System
Is your current security system working with you, or is it just recording whilst you are away? The commercial CCTV system Bedfordshire businesses need is one that offers far more than passive recording – it’s an active tool for business management and loss prevention.
For companies in Bedfordshire looking to upgrade, the shift to High Definition (HD) and smart analytics offers an increased return on investment. To help you make an informed decision, we take a close look at the two main standards in commercial security – IP Network and Analogue HD – and explain what you need to know about installing or updating your system.
1st Choice Security Systems has been operating across Bedfordshire since 2006, building lasting relationships with local business owners. Our roots in the county mean that we’re able to provide tailored system recommendations that secure your specific premises, and your budget.
Understanding the Technology – IP or Analogue For Bedfordshire Businesses?
Why does the difference between IP and Analogue matter to Bedfordshire business owners? It all comes down to the forensic detail of the evidence you capture from your CCTV camera.
There’s no doubt that the latest analogue CCTV systems have improved image quality immensely, but they still process those images differently than digital cameras. Choosing between them is a trade-off between the ease of installation and the sheer density of data – pixel for pixel – that you can capture.
If your priority is identifying a number plate at 50 metres rather than just monitoring general movement, this distinction will be very important to you.
Commercial CCTV Installation FAQs – Costs and Logistics
Investing in a commercial CCTV system is all about balancing the cost of the hardware and the labour cost of installation. The “best” system, therefore, is the one that protects your premises without involving a complete building refit. Here are some questions we get asked regularly by clients concerned about this issue.
1. Is there a difference in installation cost between IP and Analogue?
IP cameras are more expensive to buy, but they are often cheaper to install in large buildings because they use less cabling (one cable vs two). Analogue cameras are cheaper to buy, but the installation labour can be higher if we are running fresh “Siamese” cables (video + power) over long distances. Once we’ve taken a look at your site, we’ll be able to advise you on the most cost-effective option.
2. I have an old, pretty useless CCTV system. Is it expensive to switch to HD?
It’s surprisingly affordable so long as we can re-use your infrastructure. We can perform a “Retrofit Upgrade” using Turbo HD or HD-CVI technology. This sends high-definition video down your old cables. It essentially turns a legacy system into a modern security tool for just the cost of the new cameras and recorder, saving you the significant expense of re-cabling.
3. How much storage space do I need for HD recording?
HD footage takes up more hard drive space than analogue footage. The most recent systems use “smart compression” (H.265+), though. This compresses the video file without losing quality, so you can store 30+ days of HD footage on a standard 2TB or 4TB hard drive.
4. Do you use sub-contractors for installation?
No. All CCTV installations are carried out by 1st Choice Security Systems’ own vetted and DBS-checked engineers. We are a local Bedfordshire company, and we don’t outsource your security to third parties. We need to be able to guarantee that the installation quality matches the advice we gave you on your site survey.
A Security Process Built on Trust
Choosing a security provider is about trusting the people you invite into your business. At 1st Choice Security Systems, we take that responsibility seriously. Our workflow begins with a comprehensive site survey to understand your needs, followed by a bespoke design phase. When it comes to installation, we adhere to the strictest industry standards. We are fully SafeContractor approved, and every engineer carries a DBS check, ensuring that your commercial CCTV system is installed by professionals who are both skilled and safe.
Get a Clearer View of Your Business
Secure your commercial assets with high-definition clarity. Whether you need a simple upgrade or a complex IP network, our local Bedfordshire team is ready to help. Book your free security survey on 0800 118 2414 today.
