HD cctv can be carried over coax or across an IP network. The first option is great for CCTV upgrades to HD where you have an existing analogue system and want HD but do not wish to replace all your cable infrastructure. So could you install HD over coax yourself. Well, with the right guidance yes. After all you are just replacing ends and that’s what makes HD CCTV over coax such an attractive option for many.
The second route is HD IP perhaps this is a little more involved but there are many IT professionals who would find designing and installing an HD CCTV camera system quite simple. The important point to consider is the initial design of the network is critical. It is also very important lighting is considered as well as the amount of cameras you will need once the system is at full capacity not what the system actually requires now. Each HD camera we add to a system will add a bit more pressure as to how the system as a whole will perform.
So firstly sit down and think where you want your HD CCTV system to be in 5 years’ time. Is the site/operation likely to expand ,if so build in suitable redundancy. Make sure the backbone of the system is up to spec. Sometimes fibre will be your only option. Use suitable switches anything substandard will affect the performance of the system and always ensure the NVR /software you choose can handle the cameras you need to install. ONVIF compliancy does not guarantee you can control or focus your cameras it just means you can see the image. So steer clear of too much mixing and matching of different manufacturers technology.
Finally the lighting. HD CCTV cameras are very light hungry. Much disappointment has greeted HD because no lighting consideration is given prior to an installation. IR illuminators form the main solution when designing an HD CCTV system however some manufacturers are now marketing high performance lowlight HD cameras as well HD cameras complete with IR illumination built in.
So is it easy to install a DIY HD CCTV system? Well the conclusion is that you will need some sort of experience with CCTV design but yes it can be done and with the help of sites such as HD CCTV solutions you can purchase the kit you need to ensure your system will operate to its full potential.