Installing a high-tech security system is just not enough! You need to keep a timely check if everything is working smoothly. This is like a routine, but it can really save you from falling prey to a would-be burglar who is always keeping an eye and looking for a less guarded home.

Often many of us make mistakes with their surveillance systems that make security monitoring completely worthless. Here, we have jotted down all such mistakes and how to avoid them.

Let’s get to these mistakes and solutions one by one.

Are all your security cameras working?

Security cameras that are not working properly are the real problem. There could be a power outage. They can lose focus; hang due to lose power fitting or even burn out from the power surge. The list goes on. You can never be sure about the reason.

How to avoid it: Keep a regular check on your video monitoring devices. Review the condition and status of your surveillance cameras at least once a quarter.

Is the DVR actually recording?

The system is on and working but there is a possibility that nothing is being monitored. You ask about the reason? A simple one – Someone forgot to press the record button. Or maybe you made some configuration changes and forgot to resume recording.

How to avoid it: Always double check if the digital video recorder is recording after every configuration change you make.

Is everything plugged in?

Loose connections that are not properly secured can be one of the reasons behind a non-functioning surveillance system. It is the first and foremost step to check all the plugs and connections to conquer any malfunction. All this is so common in bars, restaurants and other places where ownership changes more often.

How to avoid it:

• Double check that coaxial/RG59 cable or DVR card are connected.
• If there is an NVR, make sure it is connected to the network.
• Hard drives are plugged in and working.

Is there enough storage space?

Everything was working. Cameras were recording. But when you wanted to watch the security footage, it was just not there. Where did it go? Probably your hard disk drive ran short of storage space and the video was recorded over!

How to avoid it: Buy disk space according to your requirement. Tune your recording settings to maximize disk space. This includes enabling motion detection and scheduled recording.

What areas are you covering?

Are your security cameras recording the right spot? Are these video monitoring devices covering enough field of view? Having right surveillance cameras for the right areas is more important as compared to having more numbers of surveillance cameras.

How to avoid it: Opt for HD box camera to monitor entrances and exits. It can aid you to recognize details like facial features and clothing easily.

That’s it from our side for now. We want to hear your stories too. Let us know what security camera mistakes you have witnessed. Tell us about your funny and educational fails in the comment section below.

Author's Bio: 

Rohan Sharma is a gadget wizard, an active blogger, and an eminent speaker. With more than 10 years of experience to his credit, Rohan has always been a pertinent contributor to the security industry. He is closely associated with Revo America, a well-renowned security products manufacturer and retailer. Needless to say, Rohan boasts for paramount and credible products only, with Revo's being his favorite.