Today, CCTV has become a regular sight in homes and businesses across Singapore. Places with CCTV are less likely to be targeted with burglars as there is always the risk of being identified afterward. In that regard, they stand out as the best deterrent. Unfortunately, there are lots of complaints among residents in Singapore of having CCTV systems installed in their homes only for them to malfunction after a relatively short period of time. Why is this so? What could be the problem?
There are some mistakes that can be avoided that contribute to such failures. Briefly mentioned are the most common that can be corrected from your end as the buyer.
Have you recently been deliberating whether you should install CCTV? Here are some of the top mistakes one must avoid when having CCTV installed at their home.
1. Using materials of poor quality
This has a direct effect on the longevity of your system. As just about in everything, if it’s of poor quality you do not expect it to hold for too long. You can anticipate premature damage which is a direct threat to your security given you can afford an operation failure just before the worst happens. Your system must have the ability to run unhampered for 24 hours. Anything less than this might not be value for money. A common mistake many buyers make is buying their systems from just about any supplier. In the end, they end up with imitated and vague products which barely last. Do not be too price conservative to a point where you compromise the safety and security of your loved ones of business interests.
2. Poor installation
Often this depends on the supplier chosen. The supplier has the responsibility of carrying out a proper installation. A proper installation ensures that the system covers a wide area using the least possible number of cameras. That way you are killing two birds with one stone by saving on costs while safeguarding your home. Keen attention during installation should be given to hotspots such as the exit and entry points.
3. Going for an installer who charges a premium on installation
When buying anything cost is key. A big mistake done by many in Singapore is contracting suppliers who charge a disproportionately high amount for installation. Best way to avoid this is to conduct your due diligence when picking an installer. Go for licensed suppliers who will give you the latest products at a reasonable rate. Never go for vague when it comes to tech products, emphasize that you need to know all product features beforehand.
4. Installation of out-dated CCTV technology
Some shoddy installers will compromise on the cost and instead install your old devices that lack the latest modern features. For maximum security ensure you are working with the latest security systems. A lack in one or two of the most recent features might compromise your security given most product improvements or updates are aimed at keeping security systems ahead of the criminals. Cameras equipped with the latest facial recognition technology ware helpful as they compare the facial features captured to a digitized facial database. New features such as video content analysis give the system adaptability to respond to changes in weather, speed, color, and size. Any unusual movement or behavior can trigger the alarm.
5. Installing systems offering poor support and service
There are rare cases where your system might face minor breakdowns which can be easily solved by instructions in the user manuals without having to seek expert advice. A common mistake done by many Singapore residents is to install the equipment without using the original supplier manuals or documentation. Remember it is the supplier/manufacturer who is best positioned to explain what the electrical parts and components do. In the case of minor problems you can read the manual and easily solve them.
6. Installing CCTV from suppliers with limited options
Many in Singapore opt for systems offering their suppliers single installation options. This will limit you in terms of security and scope as well as the amount of cash you will part with. Genuine suppliers will provide you with options that align with your financial capability. The same applies to the right security level requirement. Only look for installers who will provide you with the best options prior to installation.