When you perform an online search for “security camera packages”, a wide variety of choices are returned. Every company that sells CCTV equipment offers its customers different packages to choose from; 4- to 16-camera packages, PC-based or standalone packages, and more. It can be quite daunting to filter out the choices and understand what you are buying.
So where should you start?
You should ask yourself the same questions that you would when building your video surveillance system component by component, and understand the different technicalities that go into that system.
After you have an idea of what you want out of your system and understand what you are searching for, start looking for complete video surveillance packages that include most, if not all, of the following components:
- DVR (PC or Standalone)
- Cameras
- Cable (Pre-cut or on a spool)
- Hard Drive(s)
- Monitor(s)
- DC power supplies and plugs
- Connectors
Research and read all you can about each component included in the CCTV package so you understand the items and know for sure that what comes with the system is what you are looking for. The more “complete” a package you are able to find, the easier it will be to install because you will have everything you need right at your fingertips.
It is also a good idea to see what kind of services and support the company you are purchasing the package from offers. Does the retailer test the DVRs with the cameras before it is shipped to ensure that they are in working condition? Do they offer any technical support in case you do have a problem setting the system up? Does a warranty come with it that covers all of the items in the package? Some companies offer free lifetime technical support and industry standard warranties, while others offer nothing, so be careful to read the seller’s policies before purchasing.
After you have found the perfect security-camera package for yourself, come back and let us know if this post was any help, and if you have any suggestions or tips of your own for others who might be looking for a complete camera system as well.
#1 by Josh on September 6, 2009 - 2:25 pm
Great Post – Always ask questions, always do your research. I tend to be wary of any site that doesn’t offer specifics on each component.
#2 by Jason on September 8, 2009 - 2:31 pm
I’ve been contemplating a security system purchase for my new office and ran across this blog.
I only skimmed the other posts, so forgive me if the information was already mentioned earlier. I’m going to buy a package deal someplace and I was wandering if I should go all-out on a PC-Based system or just buy a standalone DVR pkg. I would like to monitor the office from my house, so network monitoring is a must, but other than that I am not sure I need everything else the PC-based offers – and cost efficiency is definitely a part of the purchase.
We’re not in a particularly bad area of town, so It’s mainly for functionally deterring any possible break ins/theft, and I only need about 4 cameras to cover the entrances and sales floor.
What do you recommend? Is the additional horsepower worth the cost differences? Any suggestions on some cost effective packages?
Thanks in advance
#3 by Fredrick on September 18, 2009 - 5:22 pm
might also consider whether any installation tools are included. if not, make sure you have them or buy them with the package.
#4 by RKFan on October 2, 2009 - 8:35 am
Good suggestion.