Tech Tips: Routine Servicing CCTV

15 Oct, 2020, 3:51 PM

As a follow up to the recent Tech Tip on what is required for a routine maintenance on an access control system I have been asked about the same thing for a CCTV system.

As per last time these steps are intended as a guideline, remember each site may vary.

 

1. Notify the onsite contact of your arrival and what your planned actions are. Ensure they have your contact number in case of any reported issues whilst you are on site.
2. Ask the onsite contact about any known issues on the system. This includes any issues in relation to remote access to the NVR etc, if appropriate.
3. Ensure the onsite contact (and other staff as appropriate) are aware of how to manage the system on a day to day basis. Ensure they can playback footage from a desired camera/time. Also, ensure they can archive footage of incidents as required. Ensure at least one archive storage device is available onsite eg USB key.
4. Ensure that no previous staff members have access to the system, ie change passwords if any staff have left.
5. Discuss with site representative the coverage of each camera. Ensure that what needs to be seen/recorded is.
6. Upgrade firmware to the latest available version.
7. Discuss cyber security with the client, especially the ramifications of allowing remote access.
8. Clean all camera lenses with proper lens cleaners. Ensure all cameras are firmly mounted. Check for physical damage on cameras & mounts.
9. Check system programming ensuring that:
   • Frame rate is appropriate for each scene
   • Recording rules are appropriate for each camera, ie motion only, continuous or a combination of both
   • Ensure motion areas are appropriate and that sensitivity is correct for each camera
10. Check recorded data retention time, ensure it is adequate for the client/sites requirements
11. Play back footage from all cameras to ensure recording is fully functional, especially the recorded resolution and frame rate. Check footage from day & night to ensure correct operation.
12. Adjust camera configuration to ensure optimal results, eg Dynamic range, backlight compensation etc.
13. Recommend to the client any changes you feel are necessary. Consider using different focal length lenses to ensure an optimal field of view.
14. Check operation of UPS. If no UPS recommend one.
15. Ensure job records are complete:
    • IP addresses of all devices
    • Make and model of all devices, also note lens size
    • The exact location of all equipment, including network switches
    • Relevant user names & passwords
    • On site contact
16. Update on site records card with what you have done, noting any system fixes or alterations and recommendations made to the client.
17. Backup the NVR configuration (if supported). Note location of this backup in the job records.
18. Note any possible system deficiencies to onsite contact in writing.
19. Ensure system operation is back to normal.