Is it doable to install CCTV system myself?

[ashed21]

Hi everyone, recently my boss asked me to install fake cameras in our thrift store because it cost too much to full set of CCTV systems. I have no idea how many cameras should be enough for our store. I ask a system integrator, he said that we need to put around 32 wide-angle cameras to prevent theft. Though that’s a large number, I think dummy cameras won't help if something happens.

So I’m thinking of making the system myself by pulling those cables and installing the cameras. I want to know how much time is usually going to take?

 

[popatim]

Installation depends on the structure which we know nothing about. Is it open ceiling, tile, or sheetrock for example. Then there's your local code enforcement rules to know. For example most places do not allow unsupported wires running across gaps so if it's a open ceiling, you'll need something akin to cable trays installed first.
And since this is a business, you may not even be able to install these yourself. You may need a licensed electrician to do the job. Check with your local code enforcement.

 

[TerryLaze]

Hi everyone, recently my boss asked me to install fake cameras in our thrift store because it cost too much to full set of CCTV systems. I have no idea how many cameras should be enough for our store. I ask a system integrator, he said that we need to put around 32 wide-angle cameras to prevent theft. Though that’s a large number, I think dummy cameras won't help if something happens.

So I’m thinking of making the system myself by pulling those cables and installing the cameras. I want to know how much time is usually going to take?

I'm pretty sure you can skip the cameras that would show the dirty laundry or broken bricabrac since I guess you would be glad if someone stole that.
Only put cameras to show any expensive stuff and the cash register.
You can also put up wireless cameras if cables would be a huge undertaking.
If you want to use the footage to find out whodunnit you would need very good very expensive cameras because otherwise the picture quality is only enough for somebody that is watching it at real-time to tell the security to go check out the suspicious person.
Also you would need a main unit that can record from so many cameras at good enough quality to see anything and keep all that footage for long enough that any theft is noticed in the first place before the footage gets deleted by new one.

 

[tonyrayy]

Leave it to the experts. It's easier, trust me. It won't cost much if you pick the right system based on what you want.

 

[ashed21]

Leave it to the experts. It's easier, trust me. It won't cost much if you pick the right system based on what you want.

I've asked a friend who works in Skyrec, and also get answers from here, thanks for your advice!

 

[punkncat]

Here, an unlicensed individual can run their own camera so long as they are not making terminations. Everything must be plug and play.
There are TONS of systems out there all the way from cheesy cheap, to very good. Really sort of according to how much you want to pay.
Keep in mind there are fully wireless options as well, if you don't mind changing batteries.

IMO the bigger issue here would be the head end and storage space.

There are a variety of "dummy" cameras and domes that are very convincing. Eventually people will figure out they aren't doing anything.

Two consumer end products I personally recommend are:

Arlo. Run no wires, change batteries every few weeks in a busy location. CR123A style and expensive. Rechargeables work meh ok.

Nest. Wired option that needs a receptacle within the length of the cable. Good resolution, great night vision. Good to watch full time instead of event triggered since they run off AC power. Big, ugly cable and a disk for what I assume is the WiFi further up the power line.

 

[kanewolf]

Hi everyone, recently my boss asked me to install fake cameras in our thrift store because it cost too much to full set of CCTV systems. I have no idea how many cameras should be enough for our store. I ask a system integrator, he said that we need to put around 32 wide-angle cameras to prevent theft. Though that’s a large number, I think dummy cameras won't help if something happens.

So I’m thinking of making the system myself by pulling those cables and installing the cameras. I want to know how much time is usually going to take?

Use IP (ethernet) based cameras if you choose to do-it-yourself. That way there is only one cable per camera and terminating ethernet cable is well documented.

 

[USAFRet]

he said that we need to put around 32 wide-angle cameras

32 cameras is not a trivial install or cost.
Quality cameras are not cheap.
Cheap cameras give crappy video.

The boss thinks that many are needed...how did he come to that conclusion?

What resolution?
How long do you keep the video?
Saved to what system?

This is when you turn yourself into the Project Manager, and hire a local company to do this.
You may find you'll actually save money.