Introduction

Operating a small business in Houston requires multitasking, and security is one such aspect that cannot be overlooked. The effects of theft, burglaries, customer complaints, and late-hour damages affect a small store much more than large companies. A 4 camera security system is generally the best way to start since it covers all the critical places without requiring too much money or complex installations. In this article, you will discover the components of a 4 camera kit, the reasons for its suitability in a small business camera system, the installation places for each camera, and the selection process.

What Is a 4 Camera Kit?

A 4 camera kit is a pre-packed unit containing four cameras, a recorder, a hard drive, wires, and other components. Video captured by the cameras is stored by the recorder for viewing in real-time or reviewing previous footage via your cell phone, tablet, or computer. With all components matched to work seamlessly, a 4 camera kit is simpler to install and more reliable than a collection of separate components. You may see our kit on the 4 camera security system product page.

Reasons why a Small Security System is Ideal for Small Businesses

A major reason many small business people are concerned with the installation of camera systems is the cost associated with it. However, a small security system in Houston addresses both concerns at once. It only takes four cameras to monitor the high-risk areas of a normal shop, office, restaurant, salon, or warehouse space. This system provides you with the advantage of video evidence should there be any case of theft or disagreements, acts as a deterrent against potential thieves and allows you to monitor your place of business from the comfort of your home.

Where to Position Your Four Cameras

Positioning is equally important as your gear. A good positioning strategy for most small companies would be as follows.

Camera 1: Main entrance. Mount the camera at such an angle that it captures everyone entering the building. A little high from ground level is perfect.

Camera 2: Cash register or service counter. This is where problems like conflicts and internal stealing happen most often, so you will want visibility on the transactions.

Camera 3: Sales floor, aisles, or work area. Select the position where the highest value stock or greatest blind spot exists.

Camera 4: Back door, loading area, or parking lot. 

After-hour burglary and pilferage through rear entrances is a frequent occurrence.

Do not use the cameras to point toward brightly illuminated windows or direct sunlight, and do not install cameras in bathrooms or change rooms.

Wired vs. Wireless Use in Business 

Reliability is key for any business operation. In a wired system, the power and video are transferred using cables, hence they are immune to any problems that might affect Wi-Fi. The wireless cameras will also save installation time especially when renting, but the performance depends on how strong the signals are and they can lose connection in crowded places. For most businesses that plan to use one place for an extended period of time, the wired system of 4 cameras is the best option.

Key Features to Consider When Selecting a Small Business Camera System

Some things to consider before making your purchase include the resolution; good resolutions like 4K or 2K enable you to see faces and vehicle plates easily. Night vision is also necessary for monitoring outside business hours. In case you want outdoor cameras, make sure you get an IP66 or IP67 rating that can withstand rain or humid conditions. The storage capacity should also be one of your concerns because you need to know the number of days that the video recording can last in the recorder, which is 30 days or above for most small business owners. Smart alerts that differentiate people and vehicles from pets and animals minimize unnecessary alerts while a simple app on your phone will help you view your camera live feed.

What Is the Price for a Small Business Surveillance System in Houston?

Price ranges significantly, thus all prices provided below are indicative only. The total price depends upon many factors such as the quality of cameras, their resolution, wired or wireless configuration, hard disk drive capacity, walls/ceilings type, cable lengths, and installation complexity. For reference purposes, the starting price of a basic 4-camera system with professional installation could be a few hundred dollars, while that of more advanced 4K systems – over one thousand.

DIY Installation VS Professional Installation

Although installing your security camera by yourself might be more affordable, business premises make it difficult. The ceiling, conduits, security panel, and limited back office make the installation process complicated, while misplaced cameras create blind spots right where they’re most needed. Professionals plan the installation process, conceal cables in an organized way, allow remote viewing, and even teach how to operate the camera in order not to disrupt the regular business activities. Our professional security camera installation in Houston team will gladly install your security cameras properly and professionally.

Legal and Privacy Information

There are a couple of things to keep in mind before installing cameras in your business. First, the camera coverage should be in the business area and never in any private areas, including bathrooms and change rooms. Signage should always be used to notify people of the presence of video surveillance, and employees should be informed of the camera coverage. Special care should be taken with audio because the laws on recording audio differ from video.

Why Use CamRelo?

CamRelo provides Houston property owners with camera system solutions that suit their needs in terms of design and budget. While most companies will give you a standard package to work with, CamRelo customizes the installation process to suit your needs. The package includes wiring, organizing wires, remote access setup, and full instruction on everything that comes with the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 4 camera system sufficient for a small business?

 Four cameras will suffice for most small retail outlets, offices and salons. Larger premises may require more cameras and most packages are expandable.

How much storage do I require?

One terabyte (1TB) or two terabytes (2TB) are the most commonly used drives for four cameras, motion recording extends their life span, discuss longer storage requirements if you require 30 days or more.

Can I view the cameras on my phone?

 Most surveillance packages have a mobile application that will allow you to monitor your cameras.

Will cameras record without internet connection?

A wired package with a local recorder continues to record without an internet connection, but you won't be able to remotely view your feed until the connection is restored.

How long will the installation take?

Professional installation of four cameras typically takes a few hours.

Conclusion

The 4 camera security system provides excellent protection to small businesses owners without spending unnecessarily on cost and installation complications. Ensure that your entrance, cash zone, ground floor, and back entrance are covered, select good resolution cameras with night vision capabilities, and ensure that the system has the capability to scale as your business grows. For professional installation of your small business camera system in Houston, we at CamRelo can assist you. Check out our 4 camera security system or contact us for a free quotation.