The benefits of installing a security camera system for businesses are widely known. But the question many businesses in Kitchener ask about commercial security camera systems is which between a wired and a wireless surveillance camera system is best.

In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of each of the two types of surveillance camera systems. Afterwards, you should have a clearer idea which one serves your particular business’ security needs better.

Wired Security Camera Systems

Wired security cameras use cables to transmit sound and video between the camera and the DVR. This is the more traditional surveillance technology that companies have historically used to monitor activities in and around their places of business.

That said, an important distinction must be made between the hard-wired security camera systems of old that use two separate cables to transmit video and deliver power to the camera and the modern POE IP security cameras that use the same cable for power, video, and data transmission.

POE IP security cameras deliver greater efficiencies and produce far better video quality and is where businesses who prefer to install a wired camera system must set their sights. If your business has a hard-wired system in place, POE IP security cameras will be a good upgrade choice.

Advantages Of Wired Security Cameras

Wired security cameras come with a few key advantages. As they come with a feel of permanence about them due their physical connection, these camera systems offer far greater reliability over wireless systems.

Because it is not as easy to interfere with data transmission unless someone cuts the cable, these systems ensure stability and uninterrupted footage. For high-security business environments where high fidelity of sound and video quality are crucial, a wired security system will be a good choice.

Another benefit of wired security systems is their dependability and adaptability to long term use. This is particularly important for businesses that have tight budgets. These camera systems are also generally more durable than wireless systems. Because of this, they will fit well in a multi-camera system where a business has many points to monitor.

Challenges of Using Wired Security Camera Systems

If you are going to choose this type of security system, there are some disadvantages you must be aware of. The most obvious of these is the lack of portability since the cameras have to be physically connected with a cable. The cameras are thus much harder to change positions if there develops a need.

A second challenge with wired security camera systems is the risk of disruption due to power cuts. Since all the cameras in the system use one source of power, an outage would mean losing video footage from the entire system. A back-up generator would fix this, though.

Another factor you have to consider is the need for professional installation. Wired security camera systems feature complex cabling that is best handled by professional technicians. It is, thus, not as feasible that you would save money by doing the installation yourself.

Wireless Security Camera Systems

Wireless security camera systems use radio bands to transmit audio and video. They, therefore, do not have to use wired ethernet cables, hence the term ‘wireless’. Note, however, some of these systems aren’t totally wireless as they have to use a cable to deliver power to the camera. Those that are truly wireless use batteries or solar power as a workaround.

Benefits Of Using Wireless Security Camera Systems

The most obvious benefit of wireless cameras on commercial security camera systems is their portability. Because they don’t use cables to physically connect to the DVR, the cameras can be moved around at will, which is a major convenience.

The benefit of portability also means wireless cameras come with ease of installation, which is one of the main challenges with wired systems. They also give you a wider choice of installation locations, which is hard with wired systems as running cables can get tricky and even dangerous if you are dealing with a large building.

Wireless cameras that use wifi for data transmission are also easy to deploy on a geographically dispersed area and can be monitored from a central location. This benefit opens limitless other opportunities.

Cons of Wireless Security Camera Systems

There are a few disadvantages to consider with wireless security cameras. First, wireless security camera systems are only really practical for small operations. Wifi security cameras also have to be positioned within wifi range for uninterrupted audio and video transmission. If you are using batteries for power, you will also have to change/charge them regularly, which adds to your maintenance costs.

Wireless security cameras also come with the inherent risk of hacked signals, which is hard to get past if your business handles sensitive information. Consider also the potential interference from nearby wireless devices, which can compromise the quality of surveillance you get.

Which Should You Choose For Your Commercial Security Camera System?

Your choice between wired and wireless security camera systems must be decided on the balance of which is most reliable, easy to install and maintain, gives you better video and audio quality, and is more practical for your business.

Jay360 is a vendor and installer of commercial security camera systems in Kitchener. We also repair and maintain the security camera systems we install. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.