Solid Camera Systems

[AmaranthFever]

I run security for a multi-national company that has been the continued target from violent rights extremists. Even though we have many buildings, there is only one area that is the most vulnerable. It's the type of place where if any of these extremists get access into, the company might fold. I've done my best with trying to get a camera sytem in there, even with dumbing down our system to only 4-5 cameras (though we need 7-8). I've heard that going the route of getting into a bundled camera system has many pitfalls, but with seeing how vulnerable we are, it's tempting. I know that IP video based equipment is the new hot mama of the moment, but the old school cams are still holding the line. Any suggestions or articles that might slap me or my companies' management around?

[integrator97]

This thread will give you a little insite into our opinions of IP versus analog cameras. http://forums.securityinfowatch.com/showthread.php?t=6373

Will there be a guard watching those cameras? Either way, an alarm system is more proactive.

[CameraMan]

Remember, a camera system is for evidence, not security per se. If you normally have an SO sitting at a desk with a phone and a radio, then cameras are a good tool to have, because it will help this person coordinate guards better. They may (may!) be able to notice an incident in progress and dispatch SOs to deal with it. But, if manpower is tight, you can get more bang for your security buck by having another SO on patrol.

That said, I've just emailed you a very nice 8 camera kit with DVR, 8 cameras, 19" LCD monitor, and power supply box for $2,600

[Silva Consultants]

I run security for a multi-national company that has been the continued target from violent rights extremists. Even though we have many buildings, there is only one area that is the most vulnerable. It's the type of place where if any of these extremists get access into, the company might fold.

If you are dealing with a situation that has the potential for violence, particularly from groups such as animal rights extremists, you really need to be seeking some high-level professional help from a security expert that has experience in this arena. Many of these groups are well-financed and have capabilities rivaling those of paramilitary organizations.

Putting up cameras to solve this type of problem is like putting a band-aid on a severed artery.....