Another misconception is that security cameras are easy to install. While some cameras may be relatively straightforward to install, others require more technical expertise. Proper installation of security cameras involves several steps, including determining the best location, running cables, connecting the camera to the recording device, and configuring settings. It’s crucial to have an experienced technician install the cameras to ensure that they are installed correctly and functioning correctly.

One or two cameras are all that is needed

When businesses seek security camera installation for the first time, they sometimes believe they only need a couple of cameras. In reality, these businesses really need half a dozen cameras or more. One or two cameras are often not enough to adequately protect their business. Having multiple cameras properly installed can help cover blindspots and makes it more difficult for criminals to bypass. 

A large number of cameras provide better security

More cameras may help one feel more secure, but it doesn’t mean the more cameras the better security. When installing cameras, it’s not necessarily the number of cameras that matters, but rather their placement and coverage. Placing cameras in strategic locations, such as entrances and exits, high-traffic areas, and areas of high-value items, can provide better coverage and improve security.

DIY installation is just as effective

While DIY installation may seem like an attractive option to save money, it’s essential to recognize the potential risks and drawbacks of doing so. Commercial security camera installation requires specialized knowledge and equipment, and improper installation can result in camera malfunctions, poor image quality, and other issues. Hiring a professional to install your security cameras can ensure that they are installed correctly and function effectively.

Protect your business with proper installation

Commercial security camera installation requires careful consideration of the specific security needs of the business, and technical expertise to get the job done right. Without proper installation business owners leave their businesses vulnerable. 

To ensure proper installation based on their client’s needs, a professional will follow a process much like this one.

• Initial discussion of security needs
• Analyze area to assess needs
• Recommendations for cameras
• Install security cameras and additional security systems
• Test to ensure proper installation and functionality

Working with a professional security company will improve the likelihood of proper installation which will lead to improved security. We recommend that any business looking to install security cameras speaks with a professional first. 

If your business is in Maryland then give us a call. We can provide a consultation and recommendations for your security based on your needs. 

Commercial digital signage has become a popular and effective way for businesses to communicate with their customers and employees. Whether it’s for advertising, wayfinding, or displaying important information, digital signage can offer a dynamic and engaging experience that traditional signage simply can’t match.

Are you considering a digital directory, conference room calendar display, or other digital signage? There are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a successful implementation. This information will help guide you through the process and what you need to know. 

As your Maryland and Mid-Atlantic Audio Visual experts, we are here to help if you have any additional questions. 

Planning for digital signage installation

Determine your goals and objectives

Before you begin the installation process, it’s important to identify your goals and objectives for the signage. Are you using it for advertising purposes? Do you need it for wayfinding in a large facility? Will it be used to display important information such as schedules or menus? Understanding your goals will help you choose the right hardware and software solutions and ensure that your signage is effective in achieving your desired outcomes.

Choose the right hardware and software

Once you’ve identified your goals, it’s time to choose the right hardware and software to accompany your digital display. There are a wide variety of options available, ranging from basic display screens to interactive kiosks with touchscreens and cameras. Make sure to choose hardware and software that is compatible with your goals and objectives, and that meets your budget and technical requirements. Don’t worry if you’re unsure. The company you choose to install the display will be able to help you find and install the right hardware and software to get you the functionality you need. 

Plan the content and design

What do you envision the end result to look like? The content and design of your digital signage is just as important as the hardware and software. It’s essential to create content that is engaging, relevant, and informative for your target audience. You should also consider the design elements such as colors, fonts, and layout to ensure that your signage is visually appealing and consistent with your branding. 

Ensure proper installation and maintenance

Once you’ve chosen the hardware and software and created the content and design, it’s time to install the digital signage. Proper installation is essential for ensuring that the signage is functional and effective. The last thing you want to worry about is having a blank screen in the middle of your lobby. An important part of our job as a cabling company is to test everything we install. This ensures proper installation and that your sign will remain operational. 

Evaluate effectiveness and make adjustments

Finally, it’s important to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your digital signage and make adjustments as needed. This may involve reviewing analytics data, conducting surveys, or simply observing how people interact with the signage in real-world scenarios. You may also want to adjust in the event the signage is to be used for a different function. By making adjustments based on this feedback, you can ensure that your digital signage remains effective and valuable for your business.

Having a Digital Display Installed in Maryland

A successful commercial digital signage installation requires careful planning, the right hardware and software, engaging content and design, proper installation and maintenance, and ongoing evaluation and adjustments. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your digital signage is effective, engaging, and valuable for your business.

When it comes to the installation itself it’s fairly straightforward for the business. The company installing the display will meet with you and discuss your needs. Based on your needs and the display specifications, the company will prepare all the necessary items for the job. When the time comes they will install the display, organize the cabling so it’s neat and clean, install any necessary software and test it to ensure proper functionality.  With a team like Systcom’s which offers everything you need, the process is an easy one. 

As you look for a company to install your digital signage, make sure to look for a company that can implement at each step of the installation process. At Systcom, we offer everything you need. From the display itself to the software and installation, we make it easy for businesses. All you have to do is let us know how we can help. 

As technology has advanced so has our need for faster internet and network communications. Older network infrastructures no longer meet the demands of modern business needs.

Are you frustrated with your internet speeds and ability to use modern technology? Do you wish you had more versatility in your office technology or security systems? Are you planning on investing in more technology but you’re wondering if your current infrastructure can handle it?

If so, then you likely need to update your office’s network cabling. 

Upgrading your structured cabling infrastructure can allow for faster internet and upgraded communications technology. We will show you the benefits it can bring to help you decide if it’s worth your investment.

Why Upgrade Structured Cabling

With technological advances, the need to upgrade cabling is an inevitable one. As the need for faster internet speeds grew and video conferencing became the norm, many businesses realized that their current network infrastructures just did not suffice. 

This has led many companies to reach out to structured cabling companies like us at Systcom to improve their network infrastructure. Using updated practices such as Power over Ethernet (PoE) is quickly becoming the norm due to the flexibility and improvement in performance. 

There are many benefits that it can bring.

• Better Bandwith and Faster Speeds
• Improved data latency for improved internet usage and download speeds (great for upgrading to systems like VoIP phones) 
• Handles modern communications needs
• Universal applications for flexibility
• More Reliable
• Better Security
• More Future Proof  

Technology is advancing faster and faster, but with Cat 6 cabling you can worry less about what the future holds. Upgrading your cabling with Cat 6 cabling is not just for now, it can help support your future needs as well.

Who should consider upgrading their network infrastructure?

Many businesses have already chosen to update their network infrastructure and many more are looking to make the investment as well. For those who are considering it, but want to make sure it’s right for their business, we wanted to discuss some of the common reasons companies end up making the investment.

• Need to improve internet speeds (and the issue is not with their modem)
• Making the move to IP (internet protocol) cameras or integrated security systems
• Upgrading to VoIP phone systems
• Want to create a scalable network for changing technological needs
• Need to improve video conferencing communications

Companies can choose to make these updates regardless of their current position. We have clients who want to retrofit their current office and we also have those who are relocating or building from the ground up and want to prepare the new location before their staff moves in.

Ready to Upgrade Your Network Infrastructure?

Whether you’re looking for better video conferencing, faster internet speeds, or enhanced security, upgrading your network infrastructure can help. There is only so much that can be done on older technology and investing in upgrades provide your company with 

If you’re ready to upgrade your cabling in Maryland, then give us a call. We can walk you through the process, and help you understand the benefits. 

College and school campuses are home to thousands of students, faculty and staff. To ensure these busy learning environments are safe and secure for everyone, it is essential for colleges to invest in advanced security systems. The same goes for corporate businesses and technology firms that have their own large campus grounds. 

In this blog, we will explore the various campus security methods utilized on business, school and college campuses today, from modern surveillance technologies to traditional access control measures. Even if your college or business campus already has a security system in place, there’s always more that can be done to improve safety. 

So, join us as we discuss the importance of security systems on campuses and how they can help protect students, customers, faculty and staff.

Best Practices for Campus Security

Before you even start considering different options, it’s helpful to be aware of some of the accepted best practices for implementing campus security systems. Below are the most important guidelines to be aware of: 

• Plan strategically: When it comes to campus security, it’s important to have a well-thought-out plan in place. This may involve conducting a risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities, setting up emergency protocols and procedures, and identifying resources (such as security personnel, technology, and training) that will be needed to effectively implement the plan.
• Train all staff and volunteers: Ensuring that all staff and volunteers on campus are trained in emergency procedures, as well as how to identify and report potential security threats, is an important aspect of maintaining a safe and secure environment. This may involve providing regular training sessions and drills to ensure that everyone is prepared in the event of an emergency.
• Understand the technology available: There are many different types of technology available for campus security, including surveillance cameras, access control systems, and emergency notification systems. It’s important for campus security staff to understand how these systems work and how to use them effectively.
• Implement integrated security solutions: An integrated security solution is one that combines multiple security technologies and protocols in order to provide a more comprehensive approach to campus security. This may involve integrating surveillance cameras with access control systems, or using emergency notification systems to alert students and staff of potential threats.

It’s better to overestimate security needs than underestimate them: It’s always better to be prepared and have more resources in place than you think you might need, rather than find yourself under-equipped in the event of an emergency. Overestimating security needs can help ensure that you have the resources and protocols in place to effectively respond to any potential threats on campus.

Understand the Security Technology that is Available

Here are some of the most popular and practical campus security system technologies, with a brief description of how they work and how they can benefit your school, college or business: 

• Access control: Access control systems are used to control and monitor access to buildings or areas on campus. These systems may use a variety of methods to grant or deny access, such as keycards, biometric scanners, or security codes.
• Surveillance: Surveillance systems are used to monitor activity on campus and can include a variety of technologies, such as surveillance cameras and motion detectors. These systems can be used to detect and deter crime, as well as assist in investigations.
• Alarm systems: Alarm systems can be used to alert campus security or local authorities in the event of an emergency. These systems may include alarms that are activated by motion or other types of sensors, or may be manually triggered by staff or students.
• Smart technology: Smart technology refers to technology that is connected to the Internet and can be controlled or accessed remotely. This may include smart security systems that can be monitored and controlled using a smartphone or other device, or smart locks that can be activated remotely. Smart technology can provide an extra layer of security and convenience on campus.

Creating A Security Program for your Campus

Finally, here are our suggested steps to follow when creating a campus security system: 

• Establish a purpose and plan for the security system: Before creating a security program for your campus, it’s important to have a clear purpose and plan in place. This may involve identifying the specific goals and objectives of the security program, such as reducing crime or increasing the overall sense of safety on campus.
• Assess vulnerabilities: Conducting a risk assessment is an important step in creating a security program for your campus. This involves identifying potential vulnerabilities, such as weak points in the physical security of buildings or areas of the campus that are prone to crime.
• Design security systems: Once vulnerabilities have been identified, the next step is to design security systems that will address these vulnerabilities. This may involve selecting specific types of security technology, such as surveillance cameras or access control systems, and determining how they will be implemented on campus.
• Implementation: Implementing a security program on campus involves several steps, including:
  • Physical installation: This may involve installing security technology, such as surveillance cameras or access control systems, on campus.
  • Internal safety policy implementation: This may involve establishing internal policies and procedures for staff and students to follow in the event of an emergency, as well as setting up protocols for reporting suspicious activity or potential threats.
  • Training: Providing regular training sessions and drills for staff and students is an important aspect of implementing a security program on campus. This can help ensure that everyone knows how to use the security technology and is prepared in the event of an emergency.

In conclusion, implementing a comprehensive security program on a campus is essential to maintaining a safe and secure environment for staff and students. Some best practices for campus security include planning strategically, training all staff and volunteers, understanding the technology available, and implementing integrated security solutions. When creating a security program for your campus, it’s important to establish a purpose and plan, assess vulnerabilities, design security systems, and implement them effectively. 

For help with creating a security program for your campus, consider working with a company like us at Systcom, which has expertise in designing and implementing effective security systems, tailored to your specific needs and requirements. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like assistance or more information on any of the points or technologies discussed. 

Small business owners have a lot on their plates. Between managing employees, ensuring customer satisfaction, and keeping track of the bottom line, it can be difficult to find time to focus on anything else. But one aspect of running a business that should not be neglected is security.

A break-in can be a devastating event for any business. Not only can it result in the loss of valuable inventory, but it can also damage equipment and disrupt operations. Additionally, a business should always think of the safety of employees and customers.

A security system can help to deter would-be burglars, protect your business against unwanted intruders, and provide peace of mind for you and your employees, knowing that your business is safe and secure. In this post, we’ll share some actionable tips for protecting your business with security systems, smart technology, and more.

Security starts with education

It’s no secret that businesses face many security threats. From theft and vandalism to cybercrime and data breaches, there are a multitude of ways that criminals can target a business. However, there are also a number of steps that businesses can take to protect themselves.

One of the most important is ensuring that staff members are properly educated about loss prevention methods. By understanding common techniques used by criminals and knowing how to respond, employees can play a key role in keeping a business safe. Additionally, regular training can help to ensure that staff members are up to date on the latest security measures. By taking these steps, businesses can create a safe environment for their employees and customers alike.

Invest in the right number of security cameras (hint: it’s more than you think)

Too often, business owners assume one camera out front is enough. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how many security cameras your business needs. The optimal number of cameras will vary depending on the size and layout of the premises, the type of business, and the specific security risks that need to be addressed.

However, there are some general guidelines that can help businesses to determine the right number of cameras for their needs. First, it is important to identify all potential blind spots on the premises and make sure that these areas are covered by camera footage.

Second, businesses should consider installing cameras at all entrances and exits, as well as in any areas where valuable assets are kept. Finally, it is advisable to have at least one camera for every 1,000 square feet of space.

The best course of action if you’re unsure is to hire a qualified and experienced security professional to help identify the optimal number of cameras and the right type of cameras, especially if you keep high-value or difficult-to-replace equipment on site.

Understand the different security systems available

When it comes to security, there are a lot of different options to choose from. To start with, there’s surveillance cameras. These are great for keeping an eye on things, but they’re not the only option. Surveillance cameras might deter crime, but they can’t actually stop it from happening.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular security systems available:

• Access control systems are a great way to keep track of who is coming and going from your business. Benefits include the ability to set permissions for different users, as well as being able to see a log of all activity.
• Intrusion detection systems are designed to detect and prevent unauthorized access to your premises. Benefits include real-time alerts, as well as the ability to remotely monitor activity.
• Safety alarms are a great way to keep your employees safe in the event of an emergency. Benefits include the ability to instantly notify emergency services, as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing your employees are protected.
• Wi-Fi security is essential for any business that relies on wireless network access. Benefits include increased protection from hackers and other unauthorized users, as well as the ability to remotely manage and monitor your network.

By understanding the different security systems available, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your business. With the right system in place, you can rest assured that your business is safe and secure.

Smart technology is readily available for any size business

As the world becomes increasingly digitized, more and more businesses (and not just high-tech ones) are turning to smart technology to help them run their operations. From small businesses to large corporations, smart tech offers a number of benefits that can make a big difference in terms of efficiency and security.

One of the most appealing aspects of smart tech is that it is readily available for any size business. There are a variety of affordable options on the market, making it easy to find a solution that fits your budget and needs. In addition, smart tech is constantly evolving, so even if you don’t have the latest and greatest equipment, you can still stay up to date with the latest features and capabilities.

Whether you’re looking for a way to streamline your operations or simply want to give your business an extra edge, smart technology is definitely worth considering.

Professional setup can help improve security

When it comes to security, businesses can’t afford to take chances. A professional security setup can provide peace of mind, knowing that all potential weak points have been identified and fortified.

DIY security solutions may seem like a cost-effective option, but they often create blind spots that leave businesses vulnerable. Without the help of a professional, it can be difficult to identify all of the potential risks to a business’s security.

As a result, companies that DIY their security setup often end up with weak points that could be exploited by criminals. By contrast, a professional security setup is tailored to the specific needs of a business, providing comprehensive protection against all current and future threats.

Be intentional about protecting your business

In today’s uncertain world, businesses need all the protection they can get. The key is to be proactive and intentional about protecting your business so that you can avoid any potential disasters. Investing in a professional security setup is the best way to safeguard a company’s assets and ensure peace of mind for all involved.