CCTV


Benefits of CCTV and the Different System Alternatives Available

At AB Aerials we offer security solutions to fit every type of requirement. Modern CCTV cameras feature intelligent surveillance design, allowing intruders to be identified using smart motion detection such as tripwire alerts or intrusion zones. Filters can be applied so only human detection is monitored, while privacy masking helps protect neighbouring properties.

AB Aerials provides both wired and wireless CCTV systems, each offering unique advantages depending on the property, layout and level of security required.

Wired CCTV systems

  • More reliable connection. Uses physical cables so performance is not affected by WiFi dropouts or interference.
  • Stable continuous recording. Ideal for workplaces, schools and public areas where reliability is essential.
  • Higher image and video quality. Supports HD and 4K recording with minimal lag, helping identify faces, number plates and incidents clearly.
  • Enhanced security. Data travels through cables which makes systems harder to hack.
  • Suitable for sensitive environments. Commonly used in offices, banks and healthcare settings.
  • Long term cost savings. Although installation can be higher initially, wired systems tend to last longer, require fewer upgrades and may help reduce insurance costs.

Wireless CCTV systems

  • Easy and quick installation. No need to drill walls or run extensive cabling.
  • Flexible and easy to move. Cameras can be relocated or expanded as layouts change.
  • Lower installation costs. Fewer materials and less labour make them a good option for homes and small businesses.
  • Scalable system. Additional cameras can be added without rewiring.
  • Cleaner appearance. Minimal visible wiring keeps the installation neat and modern.

Remote access and smart monitoring

One of the key benefits of modern CCTV systems is remote access. Live footage can be viewed on smartphones, tablets or computers, making it easy to monitor your property from anywhere. Recordings can be shared across devices, while built in microphones allow one way or two way audio depending on the camera specification. With pan, tilt and zoom functionality, cameras can be controlled remotely to provide a full 360 degree view.

Practical benefits of intelligent surveillance

1. Crime prevention

  • Visible cameras can deter theft, vandalism and trespassing.
  • Retail and parking studies often show noticeable reductions in crime after CCTV installation.

2. Evidence and investigations

  • Provides clear video evidence for police, insurance claims or legal proceedings.
  • Helps identify suspects, vehicles and timelines accurately.

3. Improved safety

  • Monitors entrances, stairwells and high risk areas.
  • Supports faster response to incidents or emergencies.
  • Encourages safer behaviour in workplaces.

4. Remote monitoring and control

  • Real time viewing from a phone or computer.
  • Ideal for homeowners travelling or businesses with multiple sites.

5. Employee and operational accountability

  • Discourages internal theft or misconduct.
  • Helps resolve disputes objectively.
  • Can improve productivity when used transparently.

6. Cost savings over time

  • Reduces losses from theft and vandalism.
  • May lower insurance premiums.
  • Less reliance on constant on site security staff.

7. Peace of mind

  • Knowing activity is recorded can reassure homeowners, staff and customers.
  • Particularly valuable in high traffic or higher risk environments.

Important balance

CCTV works best alongside clear signage, sensible policies and respect for privacy. Cameras should support a wider safety strategy that also includes lighting, locks and good security awareness. To explore suitable options, visit ab-aerials.co.uk for more information about our installation services.

Need advice?

If you would like recommendations for your home, office or retail setting, please call 0114 2341189, WhatsApp 07773870943 or email info@ab-aerials.co.uk.


Benefits of a Wireless Alarm System

At AB Aerials we offer security solutions to fit every type of requirement. Our state of the art security systems feature intelligent surveillance design and can be fully integrated for ease of use. We use Dahua security products across both CCTV and alarm systems, allowing notifications, images and alarms to be accessed through a single app.

Other benefits of a wireless alarm include

Easy and fast installation

  • No drilling or running cables through walls.
  • Usually installed in under an hour.
  • Ideal for apartments, rentals and finished homes.

Flexible and expandable

  • Easily add sensors, cameras or keypads later.
  • Devices can be moved or repositioned without rewiring.

Cleaner look

  • No visible wires for a neater, more modern appearance.
  • Less damage to walls and décor.

Smart features and remote access

  • Control and monitor your system from a smartphone app.
  • Receive instant alerts for motion, doors, smoke or glass break events.
  • Often integrates with smart home devices such as Alexa and Google Home.

Works during power outages

  • Most systems use battery powered sensors.
  • Many include a backup battery and cellular connection.

Harder to disable

  • No exposed wires for intruders to cut.
  • Cellular backup keeps the system online if WiFi fails.

Cost effective

  • Lower installation costs with no professional wiring required.
  • Simple maintenance, mainly battery replacements.

Great for modern lifestyles

  • Perfect for people who move often.
  • Scales well from small homes to large properties.

Quick fact

Modern wireless alarm sensors typically communicate over encrypted radio signals and can reach between 100 and 300 feet indoors, depending on walls and interference. You can explore more security solutions directly on the A B Aerials website.

Need advice?

If you would like recommendations for your home, office or retail space, visit https://ab-aerials.co.uk/, call 0114 2341189, WhatsApp 07773870943 or email info@ab-aerials.co.uk.


What Are The Benefits of CCTV

There are several key benefits of having CCTV (closed-circuit television) installed, whether for homes, businesses, or public spaces:

  1. Crime deterrence: Visible cameras discourage theft, vandalism, and other criminal activity, as potential offenders know they are being watched.
  2. Evidence collection: CCTV footage can serve as valuable evidence in investigations, providing visual proof of incidents such as burglaries, assaults, or accidents.
  3. Monitoring and surveillance: Allows real-time monitoring of property, employees, customers, or public areas, helping to manage security risks proactively.
  4. Remote access: Modern CCTV systems often allow remote viewing via smartphones or computers, letting you check on your property from anywhere.
  5. Increased sense of security: The presence of cameras provides peace of mind to homeowners, employees, and customers, knowing that measures are in place to enhance safety.
  6. Reduced insurance premiums: Some insurance companies offer lower premiums for properties with CCTV, as they are seen as lower-risk.
  7. Workplace safety and productivity: Helps monitor adherence to safety protocols and can discourage inappropriate behaviour or negligence in the workplace.
  8. Dispute resolution: Provides a factual record to help resolve disputes between employees, customers, or neighbours.
  9. Enhanced access control: CCTV can be integrated with other security systems (like alarms or access control) to strengthen overall security.

Would you like recommendations for specific settings (e.g., home, office, retail) then give us a call on 0114 2341189?


Common CCTV Issues and How to Fix Them

A closed-circuit television (CCTV) system can be an ideal way to beef up home security. Many options are available today for both outdoor and indoor use, packed with a wide range of features like night vision and facial recognition. However, to be effective, they must provide excellent image quality.

In this blog, we’ll look at two frequent issues with CCTV and how to address them.

Infrared glare

An often-encountered image problem suffered by CCTV is infrared glare. Cameras with night vision shine a light that can sometime hit reflective surfaces close by. As a result, parts of the camera view may be exceptionally bright and others too dark.

Luckily, there is an easy remedy – simply alter the angle of your camera while viewing your image quality until no objects are causing unwanted glare.

Unclear images

Fuzzy CCTV images are of little use to homeowners protecting their property. The simplest cause is a dirty or disrupted lens. Dust and dirt can build up over time, and spiders and other bugs can build nests in and around your device, impacting the camera’s vision. Gently wipe any debris from your lens with a clean and soft cloth. If there are any spiders, move them on to somewhere else.

Professional CCTV installers

At AB Aerials we are experts in CCTV installation we can also service your devices to ensure they operate effectively.  We are registered digital installers so you can assured of the highest quality service visit by checking the business directory at Getmedigital. and by visiting our website site to find more information –  https://ab-aerials.co.uk

AB Aerials Get Me Digitial


Understanding Home CCTV Features

With such a wide variety of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras available, you can be forgiven for finding the task of selecting a solution a mind-boggling business.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the latest in-built features of modern devices to help you narrow the field.

Storage and formats

Most home CCTV camera systems store captured footage on a standalone DVR or use a PC hard drive. PC-connected solutions can be advantageous as they often ship with software enabling you to view your data files.

Ensure your selected CCTV system enables you to store captured data in a popular format like Mpeg to avoid issues with downloading and viewing data. If you pick a camera that can record high-definition images, make certain that the storage solution has the capability to record them

Night vision and motion detection

Black-and-white CCTV cameras can record better images in low light, but modern solutions are available that switch over to monochrome mode when it gets dark, offering you the best of both worlds. Along with night vision capabilities (see below), many cameras also feature motion detectors. Devices only activate and record when they sense movement, reducing how much footage you must store.

Remote access

Finally, picking a smart solution that offers you remote access is invaluable. Today’s state-of-the-art solutions allow you to see images from your smartphone or PC and can be configured to send you email and text alerts.

At AB Aerials we are experts in CCTV installation we can also service your devices to ensure they operate effectively. We are registered digital installers so you can assured of the highest quality service visit by checking the business directory at Getmedigital. and by visiting our website site to find more information –  https://ab-aerials.co.uk


Home Security for 2021

What with lockdown, and 99% of the population being confined to barracks, the question of home security may not be foremost in the minds of the incarcerated.

A house full of screaming and vexatious kids, a husband banished to the ‘man shed’ and a wife locked in a darkened room marooned on island of empty gin bottles would be a deterrent to anyone thinking of breaking in? Well, if you can relate to such a scenario this blog may not be for you. However, if you’re living in the land of milk and honey, albeit slightly jaded, perhaps the idea of home security has crossed your mind. In that case the dilemma is which system is most appropriate for your requirements i.e. “to be wired, or not to be wired? That is the question?” (Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1609).

Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV)

1. Wired

These are the most common and cheapest type of camera where the cable delivers images etc from the camera to a recorder. The downside is that the cables can be difficult to install or possibly be seen but offer greater reliability than their wireless cousins. Various systems include an analogue or Internet Protocol (IP) version.  One of the main differences is cost between the two with analogue version being cheaper and but the IP version offers greater flexibility and superior image quality although there are analogue cameras do have an impressive 8 megapixel capability which AB Aerials do provide.

2. Wireless

With this type of system cameras transmit images to your computer, tablet or mobile using analogue or digital technology but does suffer from connectivity issues such as interference from microwaves, routers, cordless phones etc. Transmitted signals can be blocked by heavy masonry or metal objects. If you have ever tried to get a WiFi signal in an old house or barn you’ll know what I’m talking about.

House Security Features

1. Storing CCTV Images

Most systems have a standalone digital video recorder (DVR) which come with software to view the images in Mpeg format. The more cameras you have the more data involved and the bigger the hard disk drive (HDD) you’ll need for storage. IP cameras require a network video recorder (NVR) which does the same job as a DVR.

2. Remote Access

Here at AB Aerials all systems that are installed by us come with an associated application that can be used on your phone or tablet which means images and sound can be viewed or heard from wherever in the world you may be. The app has full functionality showing live images and playback recordings

3. Night Vision

Monochrome (black and white) CCTV cameras tend are effective in low light when used with integral infra-red illumination. These types of camera record in colour during the day and black and white during the evening. See below.

Night-Vision-CCTV

AB Aerials offer a camera that can record in colour both during day light hours and at night by means of an incorporated LED light within the camera that is activated when light intensity falls thus illuminating the area covered by the scope of the camera. See below.

CCTV-Day-and-Night

4. Motion detection/trip wires

All cameras fitted have the facility to ‘motion detect’ as well as set up systems to only activate when a specific area is entered or line crossed then subsequently sending a message to your phone/tablet with an annoying ping generally in the middle of the night! Also AB Aerials fit cameras with built in microphones that can capture a name drop or accent which may help in identification of potential criminals.

5. CCTV and Privacy

If a CCTV system is installed the Privacy laws dictate your cameras aren’t pointed at public spaces or other people’s homes or gardens (no matter what the temptation). It’s probably a good idea to discuss any plans with your neighbours. They may even want to contribute to the cost!

The whole issue of CCTV and home security can be a minefield to traverse but a call to AB Aerials on either 01142341189 or 07773870943 might help a little.  Additionally, there is a wealth of information on the website https://ab-aerials.co.uk/ including all products and services offered as well as useful and, hopefully, informative blogs!


ab aerials customer Katrina talking about her CCTV installation

AB Aerials recently fulfilled request from a customer to install a 2 camera CCTV system. An initial survey was carried out and having chatted to the lady for a while over a cup of tea I can honestly say I never met a more helpful, caring and unassuming person in the time I’ve been carrying out such work. She was a single parent who also had been a foster mum for over 15 years.  I asked her the reasoning for the CCTV installation and to my surprise she said was having “issues” with a nightmare neighbour. I thought how anybody could want to aggrieve such a lovely person with an indefatigable selfless nature. There’s no accounting for ignorance I suppose.

Some feedback from Katrina about why she wanted CCTV installing at her property.

Reasons you may want to consider CCTV installation in the home.

More specifically the customer stated many of the reasons why people,  in general, want to have CCTV fitted these being:

·       To act as a deterrent.
This is the biggest and most recognised benefit for those who choose to add CCTV systems to their property. Outside of being able to monitor your premises, CCTV cameras are an excellent deterrent for burglars or in this scenario to monitor trespass or damage to property or vehicles.

  • Peace of mind
    This was the major factor for the customer.  Being able to sleep at night. A camera system provides people with an increased sense of security and reassurance.

The type of systems we at AB Aerials installed can be viewed and monitored from your Smartphone or tablet.

This gives you the ability to check-in and review your premises at the click of a button, so your home security is always in reach.

It acts as a comfort blanket, giving you the freedom to get on with your life, confident that your property is being watched.

  • Cost effective
    A CCTV system is a cost-effective form of security. Once the system has been installed they are very easy to maintain and require little reparations.  CCTV systems will keep your premises secure for years. The whole life cost over 10 years equates to £50 a year that’s 14p a day!! So protecting your home or business isn’t as complicated or expensive as you may think.
    A modest initial outlay will buy a set up tailored to your requirements, help to protect people, and prevent costly theft or damage.
CCTV Installation in the Sheffield City Region

The technology is easy to understand, simple to use, and cost effective to maintain. Don’t wait until the worst happens. Thinking ahead now will save you a lot of money and stress in the long run.

For more about how a CCTV installation by AB Aerials can help you, be sure to contact us for a no-pressure chat. You can see what others have to say about our service over on our reviews page. We’d love to hear from you!

Further Reading.

Considering a CCTV solution for your home or property? See more about the benefits of a CCTV installation on the article here:


AB Aerials giving back in January 2020

It’s that time of the year when we can reflect on how 2019 has treated us and also Santa decides whether we’ve been good or bad.  Hope you’ve been good for goodness sake! At AB Aerials we have been looking back over the past year and it’s very apparent that our customers from South Yorkshire, and beyond, have been very good to us and the list that follows tells you why.

sheffield aerial installation

Thanks to our customers we fitted

  • 332 TV aerials
  • 169 additional rooms
  • 6 TV aerial relocations
  • 89 TV wall mounts
  • 28 satellite dishes
  • 5 satellite dish relocations
  • 25 CCTV systems
  • 8 wireless alarm systems
  • 9 bird spike installations
  • 17 cable replacements
  • 7 Network cabling installs
  • 4 WiFi extensions
  • And a partridge in a Pear Tree

AB Aerials, giving back in 2020!

So as gesture of giving something back to the region that has been so benevolent to AB Aerials, up until the end of January 2020, we will donate 5% of any job to a charity suggested by that customer. Just quote “Giving back” and we’ll know you’ve read this blog and that we’re happy to give to a cause close to your heart.

AB Aerials wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Safe and Peaceful New Year

Further reading and services provided by AB Aerials.

Aerial Installation

 

Customer Reviews

 

 


CCTV, aerial and satellite installation with 5-star service

The importance of customer service for our installation service.

Has a tradesman, shop or on line outlet ever left you seething? Chances are bad customer service was the cause. A rage-inducing experience can make us swear to never spend money with that third party again whilst excellence examples can secure customers for life!!

Customer’s have changing expectations and are more discerning about where customer service can add value. We may not be terribly focused on casual conversation and interaction but we are looking for customer service that helps fulfil our needs. For example last week a potential customer enquired in to the reasons for the poor quality of picture on his recently purchased behemoth 65” OLED TV. He suggested that a new aerial might help. I told him it wasn’t the signal that was the issue just that standard definition on a big screen is rubbish – something that John Lewis or Currys don’t generally mention.

Although there was no real resolution to his initial enquiry (excuse the pun) he was joyous to the point of giving me a 5* review on Google as I’d been open and honest and hadn’t ripped him off by installing some expensive piece of apparatus that wouldn’t have corrected the problem.

A certain Dr. Bray (who he??) of Bournemouth University has carried out a study in customer behaviour and stated that “only 45% of customers are willing to pay more for a better customer service” and this is because there is an expectation that all businesses should meet a basic level of service(WHICH ? consumer magazine September 2019).

Additionally, the erudite Dr. Bray highlighted that customers are likely to warn others about their experiences – 75% would share a positive experience and 83% a negative one.

Modern technology and customer service.

There’s no denying that technology has caused a shift in the way we think about customer service. Social media means that negative sentiments can be made public and spread rapidly which I have found out to my cost when a woman on Facebook gave me 1* star review for not getting back to her as quick as I said I would. No offer of discounts or apologies could make her remove her comments!! Lesson learnt the hard way I suppose and if service drops below a certain level customers will start looking elsewhere and make sure everybody else knows about it too!!

When I’m shopping around for products and services I’m looking for value for money, which is in cake terms “worth the calories”.

Money well spent is the whole package including what you’re actually offering as a product as well the services.

This includes the initial contact experience of a web page landing or a personal phone call, to turning up on time, clearing up after yourself and making sure everything works prior to leaving. The standard of the service should not change for any customer. The only variable should be the different price of products.

The whole process must be seen in terms of the customer. Lack of knowledge is vulnerability which is often exploited by the unscrupulous. A friendly tone and helpful guiding hand on how to tune a television or how to playback recordings on a CCTV recorder cost nothing but are priceless to a customer lacking in confidence.

At AB Aerials we gain customers attention and confidence by offering no charge incentives such as:

  • No vat charge
  • 2 year guarantees
  • Free call outs for surveys and diagnostics
  • After sales service
  • Phone lines open until 10pm and answered straight away

Customer’s trust needs to be gained and the ability not to be disingenuous is upmost which is why I’d always advise to check out the business in question, e.g. look at all the reviews, testimonials, experiences, qualifications etc, which help to cut through the host of questionable special offers and suspicious discounts. The focus is on helping the customer through the process with the end goal being a satisfactory outcome which includes something that works, looks good and is on budget!!!

Customer Reviews

AB Aerials Services.

Aerial Installation

Satellite Installation

CCTV Installation

 

 

 


cctv installation in sheffield

At AB Aerials we’ve gathered together some of the key benefits of using a CCTV system can have at your place of work and residency – we hope you find this article helpful!

What is CCTV and why should you consider installing at your property?

CCTV (closed-circuit television) system allows the use of videos cameras to monitor the interior and exterior of a property, transmitting the signal to a monitor or set of monitors.

More and more of us are switching on the benefits of CCTV security systems and in the UK it is now estimated that there are more cameras per person than any other country in the world.

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe promoted the use of CCTV, saying that cameras should be installed by homeowners and businesses to help detectives solve crimes.

The need for residential and business CCTV systems is higher than ever before. With the number of police officers patrolling our streets hitting a record low, total recorded offences are up by 14%, as reported by The Independent in 2018

Aside from the obvious advantage of being able to monitor your premises here are the benefits of using a CCTV system in 2019:

Deter Criminal Activity

This is the biggest and most recognised benefit for those who choose to add CCTV systems to their property. Outside of being able to monitor your premises, CCTV cameras are an excellent deterrent for burglars.

An intruder seeing cameras may decide that it’s easier and safer to move elsewhere. It’s much better to prevent intrusion than dealing with it after it’s occurred.

A report written by the Office for National Statistics in 2017 found that 2 in 100 homes were victims of robberies, with 40% of incidents taking place during working hours whilst occupiers are away from their properties.

In the same report, 70% of burglars gain entry to homes via the front door, while the remaining 30% use windows as an entry point. Therefore, pointing cameras towards these routes of entry is the best and most strategic place to add your CCTV device.

Improved Home Insurance Rates

By deterring criminal activity, CCTV security systems your home and property insurance costs. You are less of a target, so the risk is lowered, which means the price of your insurance decreases too.

 

“If you’re the victim of burglary and your home isn’t properly secured, you may find that your home insurance provider could question your claim and refuse to reimburse you for any loss.”

 

As well as being less of a target CCTV offers evidence towards insurance claims that you may not have had otherwise.

The more evidence you have to support your claim, the better, proving beyond doubt the circumstances surrounding your claim.

Find out more about how security cameras can potentially reduce your home insurance costs.

Peace of Mind

A camera system provides people with an increased sense of security and reassurance, particularly in areas where the crime rate is high.

The type of systems we at AB Aerials installed can be viewed and monitored from your smartphone or tablet.

This gives you the ability to check in and review your premises at the click of a button, so your home security is always in reach.

“As importantly, you get a whole shot of what happened at the event: What did they steal? Did they use a knife? You get all that. But more relevant today is a face. That’s what we need.”

It acts as a comfort blanket, giving you the freedom to get on with your life, confident that your property is being watched.

Cost Effective

A CCTV system is a cost-effective form of security. Once the system has been installed they are very easy to maintain and require little reparations.

Ensure that your cameras are cleaned in order to receive the best performance from your system. Other than this, CCTV systems will keep your premises secure for years.

CCTV Installation

Are you worried about your home or property security?

Protecting your home or business isn’t as complicated or expensive as you may think. Modern security systems aren’t just for massive corporations.

A modest initial outlay will buy a set up tailored to your requirements, help to protect people, and prevent costly theft or damage.

The technology is easy to understand, simple to use, and cost-effective to maintain. Don’t wait until the worst happens. Thinking ahead now will save you a lot of money and stress in the long run.

Contact AB Aerials

For an informal chat about how a CCTV installation can benefit your home, please do contact us. We are the leading CCTV installation provider in Sheffield. We pride ourselves on quality work with 5-star service, something which our reviews from delighted customers reflect.