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Keith Teo
Keith Teo

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What Kind of Outdoor Camera Should You Buy for Your Business?

An outdoor surveillance system is an essential part of safeguarding our commercial properties. Even if we do business in a low-crime country like Singapore, it doesn’t mean we are 100% free from thefts, vandalism, and other security issues.

With the right setup, you would be able to deter potential threats outside your buildings before they get any worse. Here are several pointers to remember when choosing your outdoor CCTV cameras in Singapore.

Know the Different Types of Outdoor Cameras

There are various kinds of security cameras that you can install outside. Each one has its own special features, so let's check out some commonly used models.

  • Dome types have a dome-shaped design that blends with their surroundings — ideal for discreetly monitoring large spaces. It’s also difficult for people to determine where the lens is pointed.

  • Turret cameras are similar to dome types but have a more visible lens that can tilt and rotate as needed.

  • Bullet types are more conspicuous than the previous two because of their cylindrical shape. This makes them an excellent deterrent. However, they generally have a narrower field of view, so they’re best for targeting specific areas like entrances and exits.

  • Pan-tilt-zoom or PTZ cameras are ideal for monitoring expansive outdoor spaces. They let you remotely control their movement and zoom in on suspicious activities.

Essential Functions for Outdoor CCTV Cameras in Singapore

You should always look for the following features when you shop for outdoor surveillance cameras:

  • HD Resolution - High-quality footage is a must if you want to capture crisp images and zoom in on details like license plates and faces.

  • Durable Housing - These cameras should have weatherproof housing to withstand the heat, humidity, and rainy seasons in Singapore.

  • Night-Vision - You'll need units that can monitor clearly in low-light conditions if your facilities require 24/7 surveillance.

  • Backup Batteries - Do consider cameras that have an emergency power supply (or can be connected to one) so you can keep monitoring during outages. For instance, some models have built-in rechargeable batteries, while others have solar panels that reduce their reliance on the power grid.

  • Two-Way Audio - You can also have models that come with a two-way audio function so you can speak with visitors or warn intruders.

  • Integration - It’s also important to have surveillance cameras that can work with other security systems such as your alarms and access controls. If the outdoor camera units detect an intruder, they can trigger the alarm systems or automatically deny entry attempts.

Placement is a Crucial Matter

Where you place the cameras outside is just as important as the features they have.

  • Be sure to cover key areas such as driveways, gates, and doors.
  • You should mount the cameras where they can’t be easily tampered with but can still clearly capture high-quality footage.
  • Avoid placing them in direct sunlight so you don’t have to deal with lens flare and poor image quality.
  • Position the cameras so their view won’t get blocked by foliage, signages, and other obstructions.
  • If the cameras face a public place or someone else’s property, you may have to procure a permit with the authorities first.

Consult a Surveillance Provider for a Seamless Setup

As we can see, there are many considerations to make when selecting outdoor security cameras for your business. We highly suggest approaching an expert on CCTV cameras in Singapore if you want to ensure that you can properly install your system. They can review your layout and guide you on the best placements for the cameras while keeping our local privacy laws in mind.

A reliable security infrastructure is always worth investing in, so always get professional help if you want to enjoy more peace of mind and guarantee your organisation’s safety in the future.

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