How to Upgrade Old Security Camera System

Many organizations are still using old security systems that are based on old analogs and wire systems. The old security camera systems need regular upgradation in today’s landscape of technological advancement. With a rapid rise in robbery and crimes, it is vital to switch to upgraded systems.

One must take into consideration the current health of the security camera system and make changes accordingly. There can be various issues that can be found in the age-old camera systems. The old system may lack essential features such as lower resolution, poor cable connection, low-powered security cameras, no night vision, no smart motion detection, and no recorder. 

All these issues are prevalent in the old security camera systems. So, this is why we are here to break down the process that goes into upgrading the outdated security camera system. This can be done by identifying the grave problem that is present in the existing system. After a thorough examination of the current system, make an appropriate decision relating to either changing or replacing the equipment. There are some defined ways that are to be followed. 

5 Steps To Upgrade Old Security Camera System

By following these 5 steps you’d be able to get rid of the existing security cameras that are outdated and lack the competencies of the modern ones. The upgradation of the old security systems is quite easy by exploring this step-by-step guide on upgrading the existing security camera system. 

1. Assess the video issues

The basic thing that outdated security systems lack is video quality. This happens due to the existence of worn-out or damaged cables that causes harm. The prevalent issues in the old security systems are:

• Vertical lines
• Glitches
• Off color
• Rolling lines
• Ghosting

All the above-mentioned issues exist in the older security cameras that will be fixed only when they would be replaced. If they are not changed then it will lead to damage in the new DVR recorder. 

2. Check the installed cable type

After you have checked the video issues, the next step involves checking the cable type. Some of the issues in the old cameras are due to the cable type being used in them. Understanding what kind of cable is present, the upgradation system would be done with more ease. These cables come in various types which are:

• Thin premade cable
• HD Premade cable
• RG59 Coax Cable from a roll
• Ethernet Cable
• Ethernet Cable with Baluns for Coax Cameras

3. Replace the security cameras

After determining the kind of cables that you have in the system, make sure that these wires support the cameras. Figuring out how powerful you want the cameras to be is the crucial decision maker. Most people get 4K cameras for their entire system which can pose a major problem.  Instead of getting the same powered cameras, it is advisable to go for differently powered cameras. This way, cameras of different resolutions would be prevalent in your home. Thereby, saving money and having the best security system at your home.

Camera upgradation totally depends upon the kind of cable that you will be using in the security system. 

• Existing Coaxial Cable

If you possess a good coax cable then switching to an Ethernet IP camera system is of no use. These cables can send the 4K video up to upto a height of 600 ft. Moreover, these can help record around 15 frames per second as compared to the other 4K coax DVRs. if you are not happy with the video recorded with 17 frames per second, then switching to an IP camera system would do the job.

4. Choose the cameras 

Modern camera security systems offer various features. These come with multiple features that it becomes difficult to narrow down the selection. But, out of all these options, considering these four options hold utmost importance. These are:

• Resolution: When getting a camera, this is the most vital factor that needs to be considered while upgrading your camera systems. The resolution is the deciding factor that determines how much clarity the video provides. An ideal way to optimize the resolution is by integrating different resolution cameras in a single system. 

• Angle: How wide the view is being shown by the camera from the place where it is mounted. Getting a camera that shows a 90-degree view would let you see both sides of the room. 

• Night Vision: Another important feature to look out for is the presence of night vision. These cameras are designed to see in black and white light. It must be noted that these cameras do not provide a clear picture of the objects in the dark. 

• Smart Motion Detection: another important factor to consider is smart motion detection. This feature uses AI to detect objects in motion. These cameras send out motion alerts on smartphones.     

5. Replace the Recorder

Upgrading your security system with a recorder is like upgrading to a brand-new computer system. This way, upgrading to a powerful and latest security system would become easy.  By incorporating a recorder in your cameras, you would be able to get the footage stored on your device. The security system would become more powerful and will provide you with the most updated features. 

Drawbacks Of Using an Old CCTV Camera System

If you continue to use outdated CCTV Cameras, chances are that you are underutilizing your resources. These systems do not possess the features that are present in modern security systems. Modern systems come with high resolution, night vision, etc.  

Some of the drawbacks are:

1. Generates a blurry and low-quality image 

One of the biggest drawbacks of using an old CCTV system is that it does not generate a high-quality image. This undermines the entire idea behind getting CCTV installed. The technology used in these has become obsolete and does not match the HD images produced by modern cameras. 

2. Prone to water damage

The outdated cameras are prone to water damage and can get damaged when exposed to snow or rain. The water might get inside the camera which can cause malfunction to it. 

3. No storage capacity  

The next drawback of using outdated security cameras is that they have limited storage capacity. This means that the footage may get lost or damaged unless it is transferred to another device from time to time. Modern security systems come with high storage space. 

4. Lack of motion detection and night vision

The outdated security systems are not equipped with the latest technologies. These technologies provide the features of night vision and motion detection. Other features include a wide-angle view and zooming. Old security cameras do not possess these qualities. Non-availability of such qualities limits the functions of a security camera.

Also Read: Pros & Cons of DIY Security Cameras