Installation
On upgrades we get to see other people’s work. It’s like the work performed in every other trade. Sometimes it’s really good and sometimes you’ve got to stop and wonder, “What on earth were they thinking?”. The rule around here is to do it right so you only have to do it once. Position it carefully, attach it solidly and seal it from the weather – forever. No exposed wiring. No shortcuts. The best cameras in the world are only as good as their installation.
Maintenance
We keep spares at our shop and in our trucks for just about everything we sell. This facilitates very rapid response to any failure. A lot of things can be done remotely. On some equipment we can log in remotely and adjust a focus or alter a view. Certain types of failures trigger an email alert which sometimes allows us to be onsite making a repair before a customer even knows he has a problem. Domes and enclosures need to be cleaned periodically to get a crystal clear view. We maintain our systems on a time and material basis as well as a maintenance contract which provides additional benefits and priority service.
System Design
For each view, define the end result you’re looking for and work backwards. For a license plate pick a camera and lens combination that will give you at least 40 pixels per inch in that view. If you want a face you’ll need at least 50 pixels per inch. If you need to see what’s happening when the lights go out, include sufficient IR illumination. On the other hand, don’t waste money. An existing analog camera might give you enough detail in a short range view. An inexpensive video encoder can incorporate it seamlessly into a state of the art IP system. Creative and thoughtful design helps you get the most out of any equipment.