Bulk CCTV procurement is a completely different task than just purchasing a few cameras for small installations. Professionals like system integrators and large installers have considered a wide range of parameters before making the purchase. They buy CCTV products in bulk after matching the project requirements and checking the installation site. Different types of camera technologies are used for a reliable surveillance zone around the building or complex. Connectivity and compatibility are essential for the system to run efficiently, and a single mistake can cause major issues that can be expensive to correct.
This blog unveils a complete checklist for system integrators to buy CCTV systems in bulk the right way. These key points will help them verify every major factor before placing the order.
A Checklist for Bulk CCTV Procurement for System Integrators
Check Project Requirements
Make a list of project requirements for clear understanding before checking the prices or brands:
- Total number of cameras required and the installation points.
- Indoor and outdoor installation areas.
- Required type of camera: bullet, dome, or PTZ.
- Resolution and frame rate
- Surveillance distance and field of view.
- AI analytics, night vision, and other special features.
- Recording and retention period
- NVR or VMS requirement
- PoE switch, cables, and other accessories.
Checkout the Camera Specifications Carefully
Don’t assume that the cameras of the same resolution have all the required features you need. Carefully assess the specifications:
| Parameter | What to Check |
| Resolution | 2MP, 4MP, 5MP, 8MP/4k, or more. |
| Lens | Fixed or varifocal, focal length, and viewing angle |
| Low Light | IR, white light, starlight or equivalent technology |
| IR Range | Match with the actual surveillance distance |
| WDR | Useful for entrances or location with high contrast |
| Compression | H.264/H.265 and supported streams |
| Protection | IP/IK rating where required |
| Audio | Built-in microphone, audio input or output |
| Analytics | Motion, intrusion, people counting, face detection, etc. |
| Storage | MicroSD support where required |
Verify ONVIF Compatibility
Compatibility between different devices is essential when they are sourced from different brands including NVR or DVR, camera, storage device, and more.
Check which type of specific ONVIF profile the devices support for better confirming that they are compatible with each other. The system integrators should look for profile T for the new projects and the specific features the devices require for the project.
PoE Power Budget
Just purchasing and using a 24 port or 48 port PoE switch does not mean it can automatically deliver the required power for the total number of camera devices like 24 or 48. You can use this formula to calculate.
Total PoE requirement = Number of cameras x maximum power per camera
After the calculations you can compare the results with the actual PoE budget of the device. You should also leave the headroom for future additions and higher start loads. Moreover, the device also supports IEEE PoE technology for the cameras with higher power requirements.
Calculate Storage Requirement
Don’t place the order for the CCTV in bulk before calculating the storage requirement. You should check the exact storage capacity required by recording design and not by number of cameras.
You should consider:
- Number of cameras
- Bitrate
- Resolution
- Frame rate
- Continuous recording or event based
- Number of recording days
- Number of recording streams
Note that the number of video retention days and higher bitrate increases the storage requirement for the setup. Some of the modern camera devices come with bitrate control features that help to reduce the higher storage capacity needs.
Verify Supplier
Before placing the bulk order check:
- Authorised channel and OEM status
- Exact model and part number
- Warranty period
- Country of origin
- BIS registration or compliance document
- STQC certification
- Firmware support policy
- Replacement and DOA process
- Lead time and stock availability
- GST invoice
- Competitive pricing for bulk orders
- Technical support
Procure CCTV Systems in Bulk from DigiMRO
DigiMRO is an authorised distributor and supplier for CCTV systems from brands such as Prelco, Tyco, WD, CBC, Milestone, AllGovision, and more.
Here are the major advantages of buying from DigiMRO:
- Wide range of CCTV products
- Technical support for procurement and ensuring compatibility between devices.
- Premium quality products and after sales services.
- GST invoicing
- Volume based discount on bulk deals.
Conclusion
Bulk CCTV procurement is a complex process that involves not only selecting the right number of camera devices and installing them. System integrators that procure CCTV components and parts in bulk for large projects have to consider various factors like compatibility between devices and coverage across the complete site. Therefore, a structured procurement checklist is necessary to help reduce errors and delays.
