Introduction

When it comes to designing a robust security system, there is one fundamental principle that often gets overlooked – the integration of cameras at every secured entrance. Whether you are using door position switches, door contacts, card readers, or physical barriers to secure entrances, having a camera that can capture events at these doors is essential. In this blog, we will explore the importance of integrating cameras into security systems, their role in enhancing security, and how they can help address common challenges, such as false alarms and behavioral issues.

The Incomplete Picture of Door Contacts

Imagine a scenario where you have a secured door equipped only with a door contact. When the contact is triggered, it signals that the door has been opened, but it provides no visual information about what caused the event. During normal operating hours, this might be sufficient to know that someone has passed through the door. However, during off-hours or when security events occur, this lack of visual data can be almost useless.

Without a camera to provide visual context, you can’t determine whether to dispatch security or assess the nature of the threat. A door contact alone won’t reveal how the door was propped open, what or who caused it, or why it’s open. It doesn’t add significant value to security beyond knowing that the door is open.

Enhancing Security with Cameras

By simply adding a camera to the secured entrance, you gain a much clearer understanding of the event. Cameras allow you to visualize what happened, who was involved, and why it occurred. In the case of a card reader, where you have some information about the card or credential used, a camera provides the crucial visual confirmation that the person using the card matches the credential.

This visual identification is essential, especially when credentials can be swapped or stolen. Without the camera’s visual inspection, you may not have a complete view of what truly happened at the door.

Request to Exit (REX) and Visual Identification

Even with REX switches, which are often used when people are leaving a secured area, the same principle applies. Simply pressing a request to exit button doesn’t provide information about who triggered it. A camera at the door can correlate the time and identify the person who left, ensuring you have a complete historical record.

Dealing with False Alarms

False alarms are a common nuisance in security systems and can result from misconfigurations, malfunctioning devices, or environmental factors like door pressure, wind, or vibrations. These alarms can lead to a loss of credibility and trust in the security system.

Cameras play a critical role in troubleshooting these issues. They can help determine whether a hardware problem exists, such as a door contact being pulled away or a malfunctioning device. With visual evidence, you can dispatch technicians to address the problem promptly.

Addressing Behavioral Issues

Behavioral issues are another aspect of security often overlooked. For example, someone may prop a door open while having a conversation with someone on the other side. This can trigger a false alarm if not properly understood. Cameras provide insights into such situations, allowing you to differentiate between a security threat and a benign interaction.

Cost-Effective Camera Solutions

The good news is that cameras have become increasingly affordable, making them a cost-effective addition to any security system. In many cases, a low-cost, small dome camera positioned near the door can provide all the necessary visual information. Since you are already running cables for security devices, adding a camera involves minimal additional cost.

360-Degree Security with Cameras

When you integrate cameras at every secured entrance, and pair them with the right software, you create a comprehensive security solution. Events are automatically correlated, and you gain a 360-degree view of what’s happening at every door at all times. With remote capabilities, you can access this information from anywhere, enhancing security management whether you’re at home, on a mobile device, or within the facility.

Conclusion

In today’s security landscape, overlooking the importance of cameras at secured entrances is a missed opportunity. Cameras provide the visual context needed to assess security events accurately, confirm credential usage, address false alarms, and understand behavioral issues. With the affordability and accessibility of camera technology, there is no longer a valid reason to exclude cameras from your security system. By integrating cameras at every secured entrance, you significantly enhance your security capabilities and ensure a more comprehensive view of your facility’s security.