What do Business Security Camera Systems Actually Record?

When researching home security system quotes camera systems for your business, you will start to learn about the different types of cameras and resolutions. Security cameras use different modes of recording for various purposes. In this article, we will give you a summary of some of the different options available to your business.

Security Camera Recording Modes

Most of today’s business security camera systems can record on two modes: continuous recording (24 hours non-stop) or event-based recording (triggered by motion detection). Each recording mode has its pros and cons. They serve different purposes for specific types of businesses.

Continuous recording

With Continuous Recording (CR), the security camera saves media at all times. This type of equipment will capture non-stop video, allowing the business owner to review it as needed. CR may be the best solution for regulatory compliance. When gathering evidence, a technician can look at the footage after an event. Generally, motion detection recording  works best in small areas.

It is ideal for residential or retail environments. CR is better for a large space such as a warehouse or a parking lot.

Event recording

Event recording occurs as a result of “key events” such as passing through an entrance or a window breaking.  A strategically placed sensor that captures motion in an area that would generally be off-limits or experience low traffic will trigger a recording.  The “key events” programmed vary based on the needs of your business. Examples of businesses that may use continuous recording include banks, auto dealers, retail stores, and restaurants. They have high traffic areas where motion-triggered event recording is impractical because there is constant movement at the location. Motion detection uses less bandwidth and recording storage compared to continuous recording. The storage space required for continuous recording will be higher than the storage space used with event recording.

Event-triggered recording is appropriate for a business that may not need to record all activity, only activity in certain areas when a person is present. For example, there may be event cameras only in highly secured areas. A bank or auto dealer that use continuous recording during the day may use event recording after hours. In this scenario, the cameras will only record when triggered by motion after hours, and there is no reason for a person to be there. Your business security needs will determine the right type of security recording.