Security Camera Design Checklist

3/27/20251 min read

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp

Here’s a Security Camera Design Checklist to help customers determine the right security camera system for their needs:

1. Purpose & Use Case

  • What is the primary purpose of the cameras? (e.g., theft prevention, employee monitoring, traffic surveillance)

  • Will the cameras be used indoors, outdoors, or both?

  • Do you need visible deterrent cameras or discreet/hidden cameras?

2. Coverage Area & Camera Placement

  • How many areas need surveillance? (e.g., entrances, parking lot, hallways)

  • What is the required field of view? (Wide-angle, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), fixed lens)

  • What is the optimal mounting height for each camera?

  • Are there any blind spots that need special attention?

3. Image & Video Quality

  • What resolution is needed? (e.g., 1080p, 4K, 8MP)

  • Do you need night vision (IR/low-light capability)?

  • Should the camera have wide dynamic range (WDR) for varying lighting?

  • Do you need color night vision or standard black & white IR?

4. Connectivity & Storage

  • Should the cameras be wired (PoE, analog) or wireless (Wi-Fi, cellular)?

  • How much storage capacity is needed? (Local DVR/NVR vs. cloud storage)

  • What is the preferred retention period for recorded footage? (e.g., 7 days, 30 days, longer)

5. Power & Environmental Factors

  • Is there a power source available near camera locations?

  • Do you need battery/solar-powered cameras for remote areas?

  • Should the cameras be weatherproof (IP66/IP67) for outdoor use?

  • Will the cameras face extreme temperatures or harsh conditions?

6. Smart Features & Alerts

  • Do you need AI-powered detection (e.g., facial recognition, license plate reading)?

  • Should the system send real-time alerts (motion, sound, line-crossing detection)?

  • Do you want two-way audio (speaker/microphone) for communication?

7. Integration & Remote Access

  • Should the system integrate with existing security/alarm systems?

  • Do you need remote viewing via mobile app or web browser?

  • Should multiple users have access (e.g., security team, business owner)?

8. Budget & Scalability

  • What is the budget range for the security camera system?

  • Do you need a scalable system for future expansion?

9. Legal & Privacy Compliance

  • Are there local privacy laws affecting camera placement (e.g., audio recording restrictions)?

  • Do you need signage to notify people of surveillance?

This checklist ensures customers get a tailored security camera solution that fits their needs.