Security cameras are an essential part of business security systems. For any business that wants to keep an eye on activity on their premises, protect their assets, employees, and customers, security cameras are the first step in ensuring a secure workplace. But, what happens if your site suddenly goes out of power?
While some security cameras come with built-in battery power backup, it is not enough to last a prolonged outage or potential sabotage. This blog talks about Uninterrupted Power Source (UPS) power backup systems that provide long-term backup for security cameras.
What Is An Uninterrupted Power Source (UPS)?
An Uninterrupted Power Source or UPS is a device that provides backup power to your security cameras and other connected equipment in the event of a power outage, surge, or spike. It can keep your security cameras running in case there is no power, usually enough to record any suspicious activity or allow you to safely shut down your system. A UPS power backup can also protect your security cameras from damage caused by power fluctuations, which can shorten their lifespan and affect their performance.
Why Get UPS power backup For CCTV Cameras?
UPS power backup systems offer reliable backup to your security system, ensuring that your security has no gaps or loopholes. UPS power backup systems can provide multiple benefits for your security, which are the following:
Uninterrupted Video Surveillance
UPS power backup makes sure that your security cameras keep running even when the power goes out, to protect important video footage and to make sure that you do not miss any incident. Be it a construction site or an office complex, gapless coverage makes sure that there are no loopholes in security. UPS power backup systems offer long-lasting backups depending on the setup you choose.
Surge and Spike Protection
UPS power backup systems also act as a voltage regulator to protect your security equipment from electricity surges or spikes. During a surge, the security system shifts to UPS power backup, preventing the high voltage from getting to your cameras and other equipment.
Sabotage Protection
UPS power backup systems also prevent security system sabotage. Thieves might attack your power supply causing an outage that takes out your security CCTV cameras as well. UPS power backup systems keep your cameras running in case an event like this happens, recording footage throughout the outage.
Legal and Insurance Compliance
UPS power backup systems can also be a legal, organizational or insurance requirement. For construction sites specifically, UPS backup of upwards of 8 hours is an insurance requirement. Getting a UPS power backup system can also help comply with these standards.
Prevent Loss of Video Footage
When power goes out, some systems might not shut down properly causing footage to be lost. UPS power backup systems make sure that systems remain online, or at least have time to safely store footage and shut down before the system goes offline.
How To Choose The Right UPS Power Backup For CCTV Cameras
There are many factors to consider when choosing a UPS for your security cameras, such as:
Determining UPS power backup System Wattage And Backup
To determine the size of the UPS that you need, you need to calculate the total wattage of your security cameras and other devices that you want to connect to the UPS. You can find the wattage information on the labels or manuals of your devices, or use online tools to estimate it. For example, a standard camera may consume about 10 watts, while a network video recorder (NVR) may consume about 40 watts.
To account for future expansion, you should choose a UPS with a larger output watt capacity than your total requirement. For example, if your total wattage requirement is 200 watts, you should choose a UPS with at least 250 watts of output capacity.
To determine the runtime and battery capacity of the UPS, you need to consider how long you want your security cameras to operate during a power outage. The longer the runtime, the larger the battery capacity you need. If you want a longer runtime, you need to choose a UPS with a higher battery capacity or add external battery packs.
Features To Look Out For When Buying UPS power backup For CCTV Cameras
To determine the features and functions of the UPS power backup, you need to consider your preferences and needs. Some of the common features and functions of a UPS power backup are:
UPS Power Backup for Security Camera Systems
There are many brands and models of UPS available on the market, but not all of them are suitable for your security cameras. You need to choose a UPS that meets your size, runtime, and feature requirements, as well as your budget and quality standards. Here are some of the best UPS for your security cameras that you can consider:
The best way to get UPS backup for your security cameras is by consulting a security company that specializes in security systems, knows the power requirements and how to install and set up the system for maximum reliability.
Looking To Get UPS CCTV Cameras In Canada?
If you are looking to get UPS power backup CCTV cameras in Canada for your construction sites, office complexes, or any other business, Spotter Security has your back. WIth over 20 years of experience in serving multiple industries and securing businesses all across Canada, Spotter Security has the expertise to know all your business needs, and how to fulfill them.
UPS power backup is a vital component of your security camera system, as it can keep your security cameras running and protected during a power outage or fluctuation. Remember, a UPS is not only a cost-effective investment, but also a peace of mind for your business security.
Written by : Carlo Di Leo
At the age of 24, with no experience in the security industry or any money in the bank, Carlo quit his job and started Spotter Security from his parent's basement. Founded in 2004, Spotter grew from a single man operation into a multi-million dollar security system integrator that caters to businessess and construction sites across Canada.