Where should I place my cameras?
Before purchasing your IP camera system, ensure you understand the purpose of each IP camera. It’s crucial to determine your objectives. The objectives will determine where you should place the cameras and whether you need a fixed-lens camera, a PTZ camera, a panoramic camera, or another specialty camera.
This article reviews the best places to install IP cameras.
Your Objectives Determine the Camera Specifications
Setting the objectives for your IP Camera System is essential. You may want to reduce liability. If a person is injured in your facility, camera video can determine who is at fault. You may want to catch a criminal or provide a warning if there is a break-in. Manufacturers can use cameras to improve productivity or utilize a camera with an intercom to control a door remotely.
What you would like to achieve defines the resolution, lens, field of view, low-light sensitivity, and wide dynamic range, as well as camera intelligence, all of which are specifications determined by your expectations and objectives for the camera system. To learn more, you can read our article, What IP Camera Specifications are Important.
IP Camera Video Management Software
Today’s IP camera systems include sophisticated video management software that can provide more than just video recording. The latest software includes integration with access control, intercoms, paging, and other security systems. The video management software is easier to maintain and manage large numbers of cameras. It provides AI-enhanced security at the security center, which can monitor all physical security equipment within the organization.
Suggested Positions for IP Cameras
Both large and small organizations can benefit from strategically placed surveillance cameras. The latest AI-enhanced cameras can provide immediate notification of dangerous situations. They ensure the safety of personnel, protect assets, and effectively monitor operations.
Main Entrances
Install cameras to monitor people entering and leaving. Ensure that the cameras can be used to identify a person. Be careful to make sure that the camera is not pointed at a glass door or window that receives direct sunlight. If necessary, select a camera with good dynamic range.
Include more cameras in the reception and lobby areas, where people can conduct business. Cameras can be used to help identify visitors and guests. It is an excellent augmentation to Visitor Management Systems. Wide-angle and panoramic cameras can be used to provide a situational view of large lobbies.
Alternate entrances, Emergency Exits, and Loading Docks
All entrances and exits should be covered, as these can be vulnerable points where unauthorized individuals may gain access. Fixed cameras can help identify all the people who enter or leave.
Elevators and Stairwells
Elevators and stairwells can be security blind spots. The latest AI-enhanced cameras can automatically detect if a fight is occurring or if someone has fallen. Some specialty cameras are designed to be placed in the corner of the elevator. They are rugged and resist vandalism.
Parking Lots and Garages
Parking lots and garages are important areas for surveillance. The cameras are used to detect emergencies, car damage, monitor payment problems (if it’s paid parking), environmental issues (such as flooding), and vandalism.
Large areas, such as parking lots, are challenging to monitor due to their size. The best practice is to use wide-angle or panoramic cameras to provide an overview of the area, and then supplement this with narrow-angle cameras that are focused on vehicles entering and exiting the area. These cameras should be selected to allow for the reading of license plates. It’s also possible to add cameras that automatically recognize the license plate numbers.
Perimeter and Fencing
Some organizations have protective fencing to help reduce vandalism and unauthorized entry. Fixed cameras can be used to monitor the entrance areas, while PTZ cameras can be used to monitor broad fencing areas. Specialized software is designed to enhance perimeter awareness and detection. The AI-enhanced software combines PTZ cameras with wide-angle fixed cameras to enable detection and identification.
Monitor the IT Department and Other High-Value Asset Areas
Server rooms, equipment storage, and information storage should be closely monitored to prevent issues. Sensitive departments, such as HR and senior management, are also important areas for surveillance. The cameras can automatically alert security if a person enters the sensitive area.
Summary of Where to Place Your Cameras
First, determine your objectives for the IP camera system because this will define the type of cameras required in each area. By thoughtfully selecting camera locations and video management software, large and small companies can enhance their security, ensure assets are protected, and create a safe working environment.
If you need assistance with specifying your IP camera system, don’t hesitate to contact us at 914-944-3425 or use our contact form.