Considering the threats around us all the time, running a fully functional office without security cameras is risky. It is important particularly for business owners to prevent any mishap by taking worst-case scenarios into account. Whether you want protection against theft, scams, unauthorized access, or unforeseen circumstances, installing an office camera for security can help reduce unnecessary expenses.
For this purpose, it is essential to choose the best security camera for the office, aligning with your budget and requirements.
In this blog, we’ll discover all about office security cameras, including types, cost metrics, technology, and legal guidance for usage.
Types of Cameras Suitable for Office Environments
Office security cameras are categorized into different types, and you can choose the one that suits your office environment and monitoring requirements.
Based on Data Transmission
Analog Camera: Analog cameras capture and transmit video signals directly through a wired connection. These cameras can save you a huge amount of money, but they are considerably outdated.
Digital Camera: Digital security cameras convert captured footage into digital data for storage and transmission. These cameras are cheap to install but are expensive to buy.
IP Security Camera: Internet Protocol or IP camera is the type of digital camera that transmits captured data digitally over an IP network. Most cameras are designed to be interoperable, making them compatible with other hardware and software.
Based on Connectivity
Wi-Fi Connection: Office surveillance cameras with Wi-Fi as network connectivity can be considered secure and faster to transmit. However, if the router or Wi-Fi signals are over 500 feet, then they become weak for consistent video transmission.
RF Security Cameras: There are many analog office security cameras that use RF signals to transmit recordings.
Cellular Networks: Many office security cam systems allow only 4G LTE cellular connection. It enables remote monitoring and alerts without relying on Wi-Fi or wired internet connections.
Based on Field of View Capture
PTZ Camera: Many office security cameras capture the video using the pan, tilt, and zoom approach. It allows you to pan across a wider area range and zoom in when you want to see something specific. PTZ cameras won’t be able to be repositioned remotely; they can record whatever is in the field of view.
Bullet Camera: One of the most common office security cameras, which is preferable due to its small size and easy installation. These are meant for both indoor and outdoor recording and are less noticeable, giving you the edge to record suspicious activities.
Dome Camera: As the name suggests, these office security cameras have a dome on top. The dome poses two benefits: protecting the camera from vandalism and great security value, as you can’t figure out the direction of your camera inside the dome.
Legal Guidelines and Privacy Considerations
Before knowing about the features list or budget allocation, you must know the legal regulations and privacy considerations for installing an office security camera system.
According to the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation, businesses must lawfully and fairly process personal data obtained through office security cameras. The main objective of the usage of cameras should be clearly communicated to your employees and documented to make sure recorded data remains confidential.
Moreover, it is important to note that every employee or individual must have the right to request a video recording. Business owners can not ignore or refuse the request for footage without mentioning it in writing, as per DPA.
Video Storage and Retention
In office security policy, businesses have to determine the time frame for which the recording will be saved. All recordings must be deleted as per the mentioned retention period. The length of retention periods depends on the purpose of installing an office security camera; the ideal period should be at least one month.
Video Monitoring Regulations
Video monitoring policies and regulations can vary based on the state law of your business location. A few general regulations include:
- Notify your employee about the installation of a security camera.
- Sign a consent form to record employee activity at work
- Place boards to let your customers know that there are cameras on the premises
- Make sure to only install cameras in common spaces
- Mention a clear and legitimate reason for installing a camera within office premises
Technology and Features
When it comes to buying and installing an office security camera, there are many features and technological factors to consider.
Some of them are:
Motion Detection
Many office security cameras come with a motion detection feature that works by assessing the change in pixels between consecutive frames. It detects any movement within the field of view and triggers notifications or alerts.
Night Vision
Based on the type of office security cameras, one of the key features is night vision, which works on infrared technology. It helps detect intrusion so that even if the lights in your working space are off, they’ll record with proper visibility.
Local or Cloud Storage
The storage factor is another major feature of an office security camera, but it primarily depends on your choice. Some need traditional local storage with an SD card to keep a consistent log. There are many latest cameras that offer cloud storage options where your recordings can be directly uploaded to cloud service so that you can retrieve them at any time.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
For office security cameras, network connectivity is the base for operating smoothly. Many cameras offer the option to choose between Wi-Fi or LTE cellular connectivity. With your suitable medium of connection, you can link your phone to the office security camera to broadcast live video or adjust camera settings.
Smart Integration
Integrate office security cameras with smart devices to remotely monitor, enhance security, and automate office management. These cameras are featured with integration with compatible software platforms or virtual assistants to control the camera system and connected devices.
Cost Analysis and Budget Management
Taking out a hefty amount of money from the operational budget for a long-term investment isn’t easy in most workplaces.
Following is the complete breakdown of the cost it takes to install and maintain office security cameras:
Security Equipment
To install a security camera, you’ll also need equipment, including an alarm system, sensors, control panels, or integration with virtual assistants. Mostly, security equipment comes within a bundle package, costing an average of $130 for a base station, $100 contact sensor, $80 motion detector, $45 glass break sensor, and more.
Installation Security System
Installing a security camera system can be done through two options: do it yourself or hire an installation expert. For some security cameras, the installation is free of cost combined with purchase. However, if your camera provider doesn’t support it, then it can range from $120 to $600, depending on the type of security camera system you’ve bought.
Security Camera Monthly Monitoring
Once your camera is installed, the work still isn’t done. Maintaining your office security camera keeps on going and can change based on your usage and ability to preserve it. Most businesses buy subscriptions to professional security camera monitoring as it guarantees that whatever happens, you have experts to handle your security system.
The main objective of monitoring agents is to confirm the cause of alarms caused by cameras, contact the concerned government department, and inform any stakeholder. On average, the monitoring cost of an office security camera can scale from $25 to $75 per month.
Tip: Security systems for businesses and offices, like eufy smart business solotion, are invaluable in legal matters and can also help lower insurance costs.Top of Form
Comparative Analysis of Top Office Camera Systems
Now that you know all about the features of your perfect office security camera and the different factors affecting the installation process.
Following are our top recommended office security camera systems that you may like:
eufy 4G Camera S230 LTE Starlight Security Camera
The eufy 4G S230 camera is one of the most frequently used office security cameras for outdoor workspaces. It has IP67 water-resistant features to bear every type of condition. This office security camera doesn’t support Wi-Fi connectivity and is compatible with a 4G cellular SIM card for uninterrupted monitoring.
Key Features
- Wireless support with 120° horizontal and vertical viewing angle
- Track camera through GPS
- 8 GB local storage
- 2K max resolution for outdoor quality
- Records audio for both premises with local storage
- Filter more than 95% of false alarms using AI
- Support Alexa and Google Assistant
- Video recordings sent to the phone
Pros
- Easy installation
- Record sharp, ultra-quality video
- Colored night-vision display
- Motion sensor
Cons
- Requires cellular data plans
Lorex 4K Active Deterrence Security Bullet Camera
When it comes to office security cameras, Lorex is the industry leader in providing professional-grade equipment. Lorex’s latest 4K Active Deterrence Security Bullet Camera is no exception, offering a vast selection of cameras to suit any situation and size of working space. It can cover a complete 180° view, but the monitoring process isn’t accompanied by agents. You have to do the monitoring yourself.
Key Features
- Both local as well as cloud storage
- Clear HD resolution up to 4K
- Wide range of camera options
- Field of view up to 180°
- Wi-Fi and ethernet connectivity
- Smart integration with Alexa and Google Home
Pros
- High-grade equipment
- Multi-storage capacity
- Long-range night vision
- Multiple camera choices
Cons
- Expensive
- No professional installation
- No choice for professional monitoring
- Limited customer support options
Ring Stick Up
For those small businesses who think they can’t afford to invest in an office security camera, Ring Stick Up is an affordable and reliable way to install protection in your business. It comes with proper weatherproofing so that you can use it for both outdoor and indoor working spaces.
This security camera captures videos in 1080p HD, allowing communication in both ways. Ring Stick Up also notifies you when any motion is detected in uncertain timings and records with infrared night vision in dark passages of your office.
Key Features
- Live view of your office premises with real-time motion detection alert
- 115° field of view
- Streaming video after motion detection
- Activate in-app siren
- Integration with Amazon Alexa
Pros
- Flexibility to DIY or professional monitoring
- Prompt customer support
Cons
- No free storage
- Limited equipment range
- Prone to false alarm
FAQs
How do you detect and handle hidden cameras?
Some key tips for locating a hidden camera include any suspicious item nearby, objects emitting light in the dark, using a flashlight, checking the mirror, and looking for signal interference. Many office security cameras are connected to similar Wi-Fi connections as employees, so you can check if there are security camera devices connected.
How long do office security cameras last?
An efficient security camera in the office can exceed a 10-year lifespan, and the current IP camera may last up to 2-3 years. Make sure to ask for the manufacturer’s warranty for not only the camera but all equipment to ensure durability.
Is 720p good enough for large workspaces?
Yes, a 720p office security camera will be good enough to install in a large workspace if it’s positioned better and covers a major field of view. However, it is always recommended that you buy the latest 1080p wireless office security camera to get better and clearer video recordings.
Conclusion
Office security cameras are a crucial investment, especially when you have confidential client data and a constant hazard risk. From ensuring your employee safety to preventing any mishap, the technological capabilities of security cameras are undisputed.
There are many different types and feature options that you must know clearly when choosing a security camera for your workplace. Some offer night vision AI motion detection with notifications and alerts for ultimate protection.