All posts by Mike Swanson

Wireless or wired – does it just depend on the exact system and setup?

Wired systems yield the most dependable systems. The systems designer has many options to deliver signal, coax, UTP, fiber and so on. One has to remember wireless sounds great but you still have to power the devices and if you can get power to them you may also run cable as well. Currently, analog CCTV has only two frequencies allotted by the FCC 2.4Mgz and 5.8Mgz, neither of which require a license. The pit falls are many. If your neighbor puts up a 2.4Mgz system next to your already running 2.4Mgz it may take you down and there is nothing you can do about it. Microwave appliances and the like also wreak havoc on these systems as well.

Is there a monthly recording service fee?

Yes, and this will vary depending on camera count and the amount of storage required. Generally low upfront costs over the life of a video surveillance system (7+ years is not uncommon,) data charges, internet connection charges and the cost associated with the cloud storage service could make the overall cost many times more than a traditional system with an NVR.