Commercial Security System equipment: 16 Vital Components

UPDATED: 05/06/2023

A comprehensive list of everything you need to consider for a commercial security system. Retail stores, warehouses, offices, or any other large building with multi-tier access and a need for security are all covered by this list.

1. CCTV cameras

Security cameras are a crucial component of any commercial security system. They monitor and record activity within a specific areas, especially those particularly vulnerable or sensitive. CCTV footage is extremely valuable evidence in the event of a security breach.

Modern CCTV cameras offer a range of advanced features, including high-definition video recording, remote monitoring capabilities, and motion detection.

They can be installed both indoors and outdoors, and come in a variety of form factors, including dome cameras, bullet cameras, and panoramic/fish eye cameras.

2. Access control systems (keycards, biometric scanners, etc.)

Access control systems grant and limit access to specific areas of a building or facility. This can be achieved using a variety of methods, including keycards, number keypads, or even biometric scanners (facial recognition or fingerprint scanning). Access control systems can be integrated with other security components, such as CCTV cameras and intrusion detection sensors, to provide a comprehensive security solution.

3. Intrusion detection sensors (motion sensors, door/window contacts, etc.)

Intrusion detection sensors detect and alert security personnel to unauthorized entry into a building or facility. These sensors can include motion sensors, door/window contacts, and glass break sensors. They are used as part of the alarm system to trigger alarms, send alerts to security personnel, and initiate video recording.

4. Fire alarm systems (smoke detectors, heat sensors, etc.)

Fire alarm systems detect and alert occupants of a building, or a security monitoring service, in the event of a fire. These systems can include smoke detectors, heat sensors, and manual pull stations. Some modern cameras even have built-in fire detection utilising thermal vision and machine learning. They can also be integrated with other security components, such as access control systems, to provide a coordinated response in the event of an emergency.

5. Panic buttons or emergency alert systems

Panic buttons and emergency alert systems are designed to quickly summon help in the event of an emergency. These systems include panic buttons, intercoms, and emergency phone lines. You should have them regularly placed throughout a building or facility to ensure that help is always within reach.

6. Network switches and routers for remote access

Network switches and routers are the glue between all the network capable devices of your system. They connect security components to your network, making it work as a whole, as well as allowing for remote access and monitoring. Remote monitoring capability is essential for modern security systems, as they enable security personnel to monitor and respond to security breaches in real-time.

7. Storage servers or network-attached storage (NAS) devices/recorders

Storage servers and NAS devices such as DVRs and NVRs are used to store video footage and other data generated by security systems. These devices can be configured to automatically backup data, ensuring that valuable evidence is not lost in the event of a security breach.

8. Video encoders and decoders

Video encoders and decoders are used to convert analog video signals into digital format, and vice versa. These devices are essential for integrating analog CCTV cameras into modern security systems, and can be used to extend the life of existing security equipment.

In many cases these devices are built into the security system recorders, mentioned just above in item 7.

9. Power supplies and surge protectors

Power supplies and surge protectors are used to ensure that security components receive a steady and reliable supply of power. They will protect your system against power surges and other electrical disturbances. Safeguarding your sensitive equipment and ensuring that security systems always remain operational.

Surge protectors are like bodyguards for your system. They shield your security components from sudden power surges and electrical disruptions. By acting as a barrier, surge protectors defend your sensitive equipment from potential damage caused by unexpected voltage spikes. This protection ensures the long-term reliability and functionality of your security system.

10. Alarm control panels

Alarm control panels are used to manage and monitor intrusion detection sensors, fire alarm systems, and other security components. You can configure them to initiate a range of actions in response to a security breach. Including sounding alarms, notifying security personnel, and initiating video recording.

11. Security lighting

Security lighting illuminates parts of a building or facility that may be vulnerable to security breaches. These lights can be turned on at set times, or configured to turn on automatically when motion is detected and deter potential intruders. The effect of lighting suddenly turning on when you are about to break into a business gives you some indication that your presence is noticed.

12. Two-way intercoms or video intercom systems

Two-way intercoms and video intercom systems allow secure communication between the building’s occupants and authorized personnel outside, such as visitors or delivery drivers. Intercom systems can be audio-only or incorporate video to provide additional security and monitoring capabilities.

Some intercom systems also include features such as remote unlocking of doors or gates, or integration with access control systems to verify the identity of visitors before granting them entry.

13. Emergency backup power systems (generators, battery backups, etc.)

In a commercial security system, it’s critical to have an emergency backup power system in case of a power outage. This can be achieved through generators, battery backups, or a combination of both.

Generators are ideal for providing backup power for longer periods of time, while batteries are more of a short term fix. The backup power system should be capable of providing power to all critical components of the security system, including cameras, access control systems, and alarm control panels.

Some devices will have built in battery back ups, but ideally you will want a central battery backup to make sure your entire system is supported.

14. Audio recording equipment (microphones, speakers, etc.)

In larger buildings a camera has no chance of picking up the audio of its visual field of view. An intruder or a suspicious person talking 50 meters away from a camera may have his whole face in the picture, but the camera will be totally deaf to what he is saying.

For any particularly important areas you can install microphones to provide audio recording to support the video. This will be especially useful as evidence and to understand any shortfalls in your security system.

15. Locks and locking systems

Electronic locks and locking systems are essential components of a commercial security system. They provide physical barriers to unauthorized access, protecting sensitive areas and assets. Magnetic locks on doors and gates have a break force over many hundreds, if not thousands of kilograms. This is more than most conventional deadbolts which will simply break through a standard door unless properly reinforced.

Coupled with access control, smart locks give you unparalleled control over your business. You can configure your system in almost unlimited fashion, to let you keep intruders out, or respond to threats like fire by instantly bypassing normal operating security.

16. Security fencing or gates

Just like a solid lock, security fencing or gates create a physical barrier around a commercial property. The type of fencing or gate used will depend on the level of security required and the specific needs of the facility. Some options include chain-link fencing, wrought iron gates, and electric gates.

Security gates are invaluable. They close the final gap in a security fence: the driveway. With a gate in place, it means there is no vehicle access to your business. Making ram raids much harder, and stealing large amounts of items logistically prohibitive.

Conclusion

This article is meant to give you a big picture overview of what goes into a thorough commercial security system, from cameras to intricate electronics, and physical security like locks and gates.

If you include all of these in a well designed security system, your building will be practically like a modern day castle, with intruders being detected straight away, and heavily blocked and deterred from making any serious headway into your property.