Easy as PoE
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, General Technology, Power Supply, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System, Security DVR
There are several reasons why many customers want to move from there current DVR and analog systems into the world of network security. Better picture quality and the ease of merging into the IP world, are just a couple of reasons. One of the reasons the conversion to IP cameras and network security is so appealing is the ease of installation. In the past when you wanted to add a camera to a system you had several things to consider. One of the most important was how to get power to that device.
In the past cameras required two cables, one for data and one for power. With security camera systems constantly expanding, the demand for using only one cable to manage both data and power increased. The solution to this problem is Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE is the ability to power a device through an Ethernet cable.
There are a couple of things that you will need to know about PoE, if you don’t already. First of all, not all network switches provide PoE, but they are becoming more popular and far more cost effective. PoE switches come in a variety of sizes and prices to fit your security budget. Some switches offer power through all ports, while others only offer power from a few ports.
When purchasing a PoE switch be sure you know what you need and what you are getting. Some switches have limitations, which could conflict with the goals you have for your security system. If you happen to have a switch that does not provide power to your device, all is not lost. These devices can have an injector put in-line to provide power. PoE injectors come in single port and multi-port configurations just as a switch does. Injectors will add cost to your project so be certain that they are required.
As with any project, planning is everything. If you are using PoE be sure to make sure the cameras are PoE compliant and then determine if your switch will be providing that power or if you will need injectors for your project. Installation time can be greatly reduced when using PoE devices, but these same devices can cost quite a bit more than a standard analog systems. Take some time to do the proper research before you commit to a security system and you might save yourself time, money, and a few unnecessary headaches.
Security Cameras Everywhere
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, General Technology, GeoVision, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System, Security DVR
Many people have asked the question, “Can you have too much surveillance?” The answer to this question depends on the application of the system. For example, a convenient store may only have one camera watching the register, but a department store like Dillard’s has dozens of security cameras covering registers, clothing racks, entrances, and exits. In a store like that, you may even feel like you’re being watched when you go into the restroom. The simple reason for so many cameras is placement and visibility. When you’re in the middle of a small convenient store with two isles having two cameras for coverage makes sense. However, in a large department store there are so many areas where merchandise, employees, or customers can be that a few cameras just won’t do the job.
Now back to the question at hand “Can you have too much surveillance?” The answer is yes. If your security system is not designed correctly, you may be using more cameras than necessary. You should have a seamless flow of video footage, allowing you to follow a subject from one camera to the next throughout the coverage area. Another way to make your cameras work together is by using a GeoVision DVR to capture the footage. These DVRs offer a panoramic feature that will allow you to tie multiple images together to create one image of a large area.
The amount of surveillance you need will always depend on the area you want to cover. Usually, the only patrons threatened by high security are those who have ill intentions to begin with.
Tough Customers
Filed under: CCTV Articles, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System
When I started work as a salesman in the security industry I prayed for the customer new to security to call and place his order while asking for my suggestions and opinions. I dreaded the thought of speaking with the so called expert. Often times when I did receive a call from a security veteran, I could not make the sale or even keep up with the lingo thrown at me. This customer always haggled over those few extra dollars and I was left feeling frustrated by the fact that I just got my tail whipped on the phone.
As a salesman we’ve all had a customer like this. My security knowledge has progressed immensely since those early days, but I still had to learn the hard way that it’s a “dog eat dog” type of industry and that you have to step up to the plate or you’re going to strike out.
I began by learning my product and my niche as it pertains to my market base. Coming from a company that has incredible pricing upfront and a strong customer support base I felt like that’s where I needed to make my stand. So many times salesmen forget to drive the value of their product and support, which can make a good sales call go south quickly. To avoid this situation, focus on what makes you or your company unique. Customers need you to tell them what separates you from the competitors and should close the conversation or deal feeling positive about what they are receiving.
We’ve all had the customer that haggles with us, beats us down, or complains about the few extra dollars they may be spending. We’ve also had the customer who I consider to be far too technical for their own good. With both types of customers, I have found qualifying these guys early in the conversation is a must.
Tips for identifying your customer:
1. Ask for their goals.
2. Test their knowledge.
3. Ask for prior experiences.
I have found that knowing your product, driving your value, and providing a twist that others don’t have can give you the upper hand when dealing with strong willed customers. Confidence is key.
The Value of Video Verification
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, General Technology, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System
Alarm systems have been a part of security since the beginning. We all know that when an alarm goes off, police are called to respond, but how many of those alarms are false? To just one person or business it seems reasonable for police to respond to even the false alarms, but multiply that by hundreds and thousands of businesses in each city and imagine all the false alarms police are required to respond to each day. Unfortunately, police cannot respond to every alarm call within a fair amount of time. Staffing, policies, and priorities often conflict with these calls. With no way of knowing whether the alarm is real or fake, police have to make a best effort, which sometimes results in the real crimes remaining unsolved.
Today systems are being designed to allow video verification of alarms. This means that when an alarm is tripped a monitoring company is alerted and begins remote viewing the facility through installed CCTV security cameras. The monitoring company can then verify if a crime is occurring. Police departments respond faster to a crime in progress rather than an unknown situation. What does this mean to security customers? Well, it will require a higher monthly premium for monitoring your alarm system. With the higher price comes a quicker response rate from local police. In additional, customers with video verification systems will also have the peace of mind in knowing that even when they are unable to, there is someone watching over their property.
Many cities require fees to be paid for false alarm calls. Recently in Glendale, Arizona the city passed an ordinance that requires citizens to pay steep fines when police respond to false alarms. These fines range from $100 to $400 depending on the amount of previous false alarm calls received.
The equipment for a video verification system can be costly, but for some customers the price is worth the result. When you compare the potential loss of property if police are unable to respond in time to a real call or the increased risk of fines for false alarm calls, the setup and maintenance fees are well worth the investment.
AVTECH Software Series: Part 4
This video is a continuation of Part 1, 2, and 3 in the series. This tutorial will help you learn how to install and configure your AVTECH 16 Channel NVR.
Watch Part 1
Watch Part 2
Watch Part 3
Learn more about AVTECH IP Cameras.
See all AVTECH NVR Video Tutorials.
Knowing Both Sides of the Business
Filed under: CCTV Articles, General Technology, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System
We all know it takes a lot of effort to keep up with technology changes in the security industry. Over the last decade we’ve seen storage devices shift from the VCR to the DVR and now to the network video recorder. For those of us in this fast paced industry, we’ve had to do our fair share of homework just to remain educated about emerging security technologies.
To survive as the owner of a security company you not only have to know the technology side of the industry, but you must also have a firm knowledge of the business side. If you have weathered the storm of this unpredictable economy so far, then you’re clearly doing something right. However, if you are going to hold steady through the rest of the storm, you must be prepared for the changes occurring on the business side of the industry.
Just like all the advancements we have seen take place for recording data, there are just as many, or maybe even more taking place on the business side. Take the tax laws for example. Are you getting the maximum benefit you are entitled to as a business owner? If you do your own taxes, but are unaware of the recent changes to these laws, it might be wise to educate yourself in this area. Even if you have an accountant handling your taxes each quarter or year, do you know enough information about the tax laws in this business to ask the right questions? If not, you could be losing money. If you’d like to learn more about taxation and preparation, I suggest contacting local tax firms. Often these firms offer seminars on tax preparation, which can help you learn what documents to save and collect to reduce your tax liability.
If you’re new to the business arena, there are many resources available to you in your local community. Most metropolitan areas have affordable community colleges that offer night and weekend courses in business management. If you’re not close to one of these schools, but have an internet connection you may be able to participate in these same courses via the web. If all else fails, there are many business owners willing to give you advice, so find a good mentor to learn from. Remember to learn about all aspects of your business and establish a plan of continuing education. This industry is not going to stop evolving and we must prepare to change along with it.
Education Equals Loyalty
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, CCTV Security Camera Lenses, CCTV Security DVR Cards, CCTV Training Videos, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System, Security DVR
As a salesman in the CCTV and access control market, I have learned that educating the customer is the key to making the sale. Often I interact with resellers who are new to the security industry. I also have many customers who have never ordered, installed, or built a security system before. Both groups need to know where to begin and that’s where my expertise and ability to inform can make the difference.
Educating Yourself
What good is a musician if he cannot read music? An artist must master his craft and the same can be said in sales. Creating false impressions can sometimes lead to conflict. More often than not the problem starts with a lack of self education. Product and market knowledge are vital. You must know your product and the market in which you are selling.
From time to time, I speak with a customer who has his/her heart set on a particular security product, but that item has sold out or become discontinued. In this scenario, being well educated about your company’s product line can enable you to up-sale the customer on a better product or quickly find a similar model to fulfill their security needs.
In order to become an expert in your field, find a mentor and ask lots of questions. I have never met a child with more knowledge than his parents. In the same way, salesmen who are new to the industry have a lot to learn and should not hesitate to learn as much as possible from their peers.
Educating the Customer
Recently, a customer called me about a power supply issue they were having. He stated that he made his purchase with the intent of powering IR illumination cameras. With some investigating, I realized that the he was not providing enough power to the cameras. These types of incidents often occur when the customer is not properly educated. Educating the customer about the product creates a valued perception of not only the item but yourself.
Overview
Have you ever visited a restaurant for the first time and had horrible service or food? After that experience, did you find yourself unwilling to return? Bad experiences can lead to one time purchases. As the front line of the security industry, salesmen need to educate customers as well as create a friendly experience for them. By educating yourself and your client you will begin to build a relationship of trust and with trust comes loyalty.
AVTECH Software Series: Part 3
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, CCTV Training Videos, Networking, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System
This video is a continuation of Part 1 and 2 in the series. This tutorial will help you learn how to install and configure your AVTECH 16 Channel NVR.
Learn more about AVTECH IP Cameras.
See all AVTECH NVR Video Tutorials.
Is the DVR on its way out?
Filed under: CCTV Articles, CCTV Camera, Comparisons, General Technology, Security Camera, Security Camera Packages, Security Camera System, Security DVR
As technology changes along with the price for IP based solutions, is our reliance on the DVR decreasing? As we look to the future, it is estimated by some that in the next three years IP based video storage will near the 6 Billion dollar mark, which could mean the need for the DVR could decline dramatically. One of the main reasons for such an increase in IP based storage is due to IP SANs (storage area networks). The cost and complexity of SANs dropped in the late 2000′s, resulting in a much wider adoption across both enterprise and small to medium sized business environments. There are studies that indicate that over 30% of the revenue generated by video surveillance storage, which is a big part of any project, will come from network storage. That is a large increase considering that for now, DVR’s and local storage still make up the bulk of the systems being installed.
As technology pushes onward and more systems move toward an IP based solution, other changes will surely be in store for the security industry. Some of the more cutting edge end users will begin looking at newer technologies such as network storage and video software as a service (VSaaS), which will increase the need for more providers of off-site video management and storage.
Does all this mean we are seeing the need for the DVR coming to an end, and if so how soon? I don’t think that the extinction of the security DVR is as close as some may predict. DVR prices are affordable to almost everyone and these units are still an upgrade for users who have been archiving footage with a VCR. I believe the DVR will remain our primary source of surveillance for many years to come. Keep in mind that technology will eventually lead to change and as in any industry, if we’re not prepared, we could find ourselves on the outside looking in.
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