Matt Parton, product development manager at ESP, offers advice on how to plan, design and install a CCTV system.
With the UK security industry estimated to be worth £2.4bn and CCTV accounting for 50% of sales within this sector, that represents a very lucrative income stream to those contractors willing to diversify. By utilising the skills they already possess, electricians are in a position to build business with existing customers through the addition of CCTV as an additional product category and can use the knowledge of this new product sector to target new customers.
Here Matt examines all the aspects that need to be considered to plan, design and install a CCTV system.
Planning
Possibly the most important stage of any CCTV installation is the survey. Time spent understanding what the end user and operator of the system expect, will be of great benefit.
Always do a thorough evaluation of the site before deciding on which products and systems will be best suited to the scheme. This will require an understanding of the specific role for the CCTV system, as well as the client’s expectations and clarifying if there are any special requirements, such as 28 days recorded storage. Consider if it is likely that the user will require service after the installation.
Ideally during an onsite evaluation, a test monitor with a varifocal lens camera connected can be used to show the client there and then a clear example of what viewing angles and coverage can be achieved.
Design
Make a detailed plan of the site that is to be covered. For the purposes of security, mark on the plan the vulnerable areas such as doors, windows, access points etc. Also mark on the plan the areas of concern or areas of interest, for example vehicles parked on the drive.
Indicate on the drawing where the cameras are to be placed to get the best coverage of all the areas of interest. Obtaining the width of field of the area of interest and the distance away from the camera will give all the information needed for selecting the correct lens type as well as the IR specification for selecting the right camera.
Mark on the drawing a secure location on the site (away from any malicious intent) where the DVR is to be installed. Ideally this should be an area where unhindered access to the DVR and cables/ connections can be managed effectively. Mains power will be required at this location.
From the site evaluation, consider where the cameras are to be positioned and how the cable will trace back to the DVR. If the cable runs are to be longer than 100 metres, then typically a local power supply will be required at the camera. If the cable runs are within 100 metres then the power supply will typically be positioned next to the DVR.
Consider whether it is possible to run the cable through the building, or whether the cable will need to be externally surface mounted. If the latter, then consider discreet and secure methods of installation. Some installations may require conduit to protect the cables and deep bases for camera connections.
It is also worth noting that the connection between camera and cable will not be waterproof, so if the connection cannot be made internally, again the use of deep camera bases or IP rated junction boxes should be considered.
When it comes to cable access points for a CCTV installation, it will typically require the installer to make these access points - usually with the help of a power tool.
The DVR may need to be monitored elsewhere on the site, so it is important to make provisions for cable or alternative solutions to connect the DVR to a monitor. It may be that the DVR needs a network connection for remote access via smartphone/ PC, so this also needs to be considered and provision made for a cable to a network access point.
Consider future proofing options such as specifying a larger system to add additional cameras at a later date as and when the requirement arises. Fitting a surge protection socket to protect the system from grid surges, as well as additional splitters for multiple monitors etc. can all be considered.
At this stage it is important that the plan and design are agreed with the client and then the practical work can begin.
Installation
It is important to bench test the product or system as early as possible in order to be completely familiar with all aspects. The bench test also provides an opportunity to programme and set up system parameters prior to installation.
It is best to install one camera at a time and test as you progress. At the location of the first camera identify the cable run and if required make the access points with suitable tools. If drilling through external walls, drill at a slight angle so that the external access hole is lower than the internal hole. This ensures no potential water ingress will cause harm to the interior of the building. Typically most cable access holes will be no larger than 20mm.
Fish the cable from the DVR to the camera. At suitable points tack the cable to provide support against strain, but do not use a staple gun. Connect the cable at the camera end then at the DVR. Apply system power and check if the picture is live. If it is, down power the system. Mount the camera, and make the adjustments in order to achieve the required live view.
Cable access points should be protected with cable entry plates, wall grommets etc. Clear sealant should be considered to protect the rear of the camera if the mounting surface is uneven and is exposed to moisture.
Complete each installation of the cameras one by one, testing as you progress. Once the camera and cables are installed, the next step is to clearly label each cable at the DVR end. This will help if any system adjustments are needed or return visits to the site are required. Connect the network cable. Adjust the parameters on the DVR if not set during the bench test.
Test essential system functions such as recording, playback and data backup.
Once the installation is complete, the client can be debriefed and issued with a hard copy of basic system operations.