Video Surveillance Systems

Sometimes, the best way to learn about the purchases you need to make for your business is from other people going through the same process. Here are tips submitted by other Video Surveillance buyers.

• Match your DVR to your cameras

  Not all bandwidth requirements are the same. Be sure your internet service provider (ISP) has enough bandwidth built into your plan you are able to use all remote viewing features.
  
  "Make sure and do your research with your internet service provider to verify what DVR and camera system requirements it will support before you make a purchase. Many are not compatible with each other, such as requiring a static IP address in order to view your DVR from another computer online."
  - Cathy, Business Services, Salem, OR

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• Get a site visit for the most accurate analysis

  Not all security system will cover every possible scenario. Even identical building might have different security requirements as employee and customer habits are prone to being different. Never accept a bid over the phone without the dealer or their representative touring your site in person.
  
  "In cases of buying security surveillance it is best to have a customer representative visit the site to accurately analyze your needs based on the environment of your home or business."
  - Jay Sanders, Agriculture, St. Paul, OR

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• Apply the basics of comparison shopping

  "Shop as many sources as time allows, and compare quality and service, as well as price."
  - Dan Larsen, Legal, Omaha, NE

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• Demand a detailed cost breakdown

  Getting an itemized bid is important. An itemized bid should include labor, cost of cable, and hardware that will be needed in addition to the kit cost. Be leery of those who will not provide an itemized list of potential charges. Those who cannot bid a job correctly are least likely to complete it correctly. Be sure to get bid from various installers and dealers as well. Comparative shopping means educating yourself along the way.
  
  "Be sure to get a budget proposal that specifies each and every one of the line items. That way, you can compare prices with other production companies and also keep track on things when you go over budget.
  1 out of 10 companies I talked was finally able to do that without any request. That is a way to find out who'd screw you over and who's not."
  - Andrea, Media/Entertainment/Publishing, Los Angeles, CA

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• Don't cheap out

  In addition to whether or not a kit will fit your business needs there is also the question of quality and longevity. Quality of picture often can mean the difference between identifying the camera's subject and simply knowing something happened but not really knowing what exactly happened.
  
  Clarity is crucial. Longevity is the other thing one gives up when going with a cheap solution. Replacing cheap camera after cheap camera or DVRs that continually overheat or cease to function is often more expensive than just buying a higher-end solution in the beginning. Plus one is leaving their business unprotected until repairs can be made.
  
  "Never buy the cheapest system. Buy the best you can and you won't regret it."
  - Terry Vaughn, Retail, Alton, IL

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Remember that in addition to these remarks, asking businesses comparable to your own about their video solution is a good practice as well. They should be able to give you a few helpful tips in choosing and installing your system, or having it installed.

Want more information on choosing an rideo surveillance system? Read our Video Surveillance System Buyer's Guide.

Information was provided by BuyerZone.com users. Tips have been edited for clarity only.