CCTV Technical Difficulties Led to Security Camera Upgrade Projects

Blurry security footage, poor picture quality, and the inability of police to redact video imagery led to South Elgin’s 33-camera security upgrade in 2019. Anderson Lock’s successful bid for the $172,000 project included specifying, customizing, and installing a new network video recorder (NVR) and video management software (VMS). We also provided initial network software setup, configuration assistance, staff training, and ongoing technical support.

The new system upgraded and integrated the buildings’ card access control systems that allow entry into the buildings. Anderson Lock replaced the cameras at four village buildings: Village Hall, the Public Services building, the Municipal Annex, and a village building on Michigan Avenue with I.P. cameras with large mega pixel formats to provide the best picture quality. The new I.P. (Internet Protocol) system allows staff and officers to access security footage from their mobile phones, a feature not available with their CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) platform.

Anderson Lock techs recently returned to South Elgin to install IP cameras at the village’s new Panton Mill Park. South Elgin’s Parks and Recreation Director, Kim, is very pleased with the internet-based installations. She says, “We had to do something; we couldn’t continue to operate efficiently with the outdated system.”

Our Access Control Manager, Jeff Parcell, designed, and lock tech Nick Nikolaev fabricated, the crossbar attached to a light post in South Elgin’s new riverfront park. Access control technicians Pete Matthiscyk and Chris Willroth installed three HD bullet network cameras on the mounts Nick welded to the customized crossbar.

Because Anderson Lock is an Authorized Distributor for a variety of different systems, our access control experts assess your wants, needs and budget to assure that the best match is made for your facility. Jeff notes that, “Today’s systems are generally I.P. and cloud-based. The term CCTV was used primarily because the system was housed internal to a facility and the broadcast of the images was only internal on a closed circuit directly wired to a recording device. Now, most customers want the ability to access images of their facility via their mobile device, which is not something that was possible from a true closed circuit system.”

Today’s security systems are significantly more intelligent and effective than ever before. The best cameras offer computer-like functions and features, like motion sensors and automatic mobile notifications. Some can be programmed to automatically contact law enforcement. Technological development has also led to more efficient ways of managing recording, reporting and storage. Plus, they have much better platform wireless capabilities.

Server modules allow you to choose a cloud based or onsite system–or run both simultaneously for extra security and access. You can:

  • Record and store sensitive data within VMS that can only be accessed by authorized users
  • Access what you need, when you need it
  • Protect against internet outages and power failures

Put plainly, IP, NVR, VMS systems offer unrivalled benefits compared with traditional analog CCTV.

 

According to South Elgin’s website, “concerts, art festivals, martial arts demonstrations, family reunions, weddings, walk-a-thons and other events have a new, showcase location in South Elgin’s Village Center. Panton Mill Park, home of Riverfest and adjacent to Village Hall, received a mighty upgrade this summer: a permanent sound stage, large pavilion, restroom / concessions building, walking paths, streetscape lighting and splash pad.”

With the picturesque Fox River as its backdrop, the festival-styled park offers great sight lines to the entertainment stage and a wide-array of reasons for the community and region to gather. During this pandemic, they cannot promise when large scale events will begin taking place, but they’ll be ready when the opportunity arises!

Access control technicians Pete and Chris installed security cameras and controls to a light post’s custom crossbar in a South Elgin park.

Anderson Lock is a certified / licensed dealer of multiple leading integration companies. Our Electronic Access Control experts are factory-certified in installation, programming and service. We offer troubleshooting and technical support, onsite and over the phone, for systems we have sold and installed.
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